Subject
France -- History -- Consulate and First Empire, 1799-1815 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Honoré de Balzac
The Country Doctor
"The Country Doctor" by Honoré de Balzac is a novel published in 1833. When Commander Genestas arrives in a remote French village, he discovers that Dr. Benassis has transformed a miserable settlement into a thriving community in just ten years. Each man carries a hidden secret that shaped his life. Through their stories and tales from a Napoleonic soldier, Balzac explores themes of devotion, lost love, and social transformation, examining how personal suffering can inspire service to others.
Charles Lever
Maurice Tiernay, Soldier of Fortune
"Maurice Tiernay, Soldier of Fortune" by Charles James Lever is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The book introduces Maurice Tiernay, whose life is shaped by the turbulent events of the French Revolution and his family's noble, yet tragic history. It explores themes of identity, survival, and the chaos of revolution, as well as the personal struggles of its main character amidst the societal upheaval." "At the start of the novel, we get an intricate background of Maurice Tiernay's lineage as he recounts the fate of his ancestors during the political turmoil in France. The opening scenes vividly portray the horrific events during the Reign of Terror, where Maurice witnesses his father’s execution at the guillotine, which thrusts him into a life of uncertainty. After the death of his father, Maurice is taken in by Père Michel, a former friend of his father. The narrative sets the stage for Maurice's development, ultimately leading him to navigate a world filled with violence, betrayal, and the quest for his own fortune in a society that is rapidly changing."
Molly Elliot Seawell
The fortunes of Fifi
"The Fortunes of Fifi" by Molly Elliot Seawell is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in Paris during the early 19th century and follows the life of Mademoiselle Fifi, a young actress who has just become the leading lady at the Imperial Theater. The plot navigates her aspirations and encounters, particularly focusing on her relationships with Cartouche, a devoted stage manager, and the challenges that accompany newfound wealth after winning a lottery. The opening of the novel introduces Fifi and her surroundings, highlighting her recent promotion in the theatrical world and her budding ambitions. We see her vibrant personality as she banters with Cartouche, who acts as her protector and mentor, providing a glimpse into the dynamics of their relationship. As they navigate the bustling streets of Paris, the allure of fame and fortune begins to stir within Fifi. The chapter sets a lively tone, establishing Fifi's charm, her dreams, and the complexities that will arise from her ascent in the theatrical world, especially as she grapples with her identity amidst the trials that fortune brings.
Emmuska Orczy Orczy
A Sheaf of Bluebells
"A Sheaf of Bluebells" by Baroness Emmuska Orczy Orczy is a novel published in 1917. Set in Napoleonic France, it follows the bitter conflicts between returned Royalist exiles and Bonaparte's followers. When the aristocratic Fernande schemes to seduce the revolutionary Ronnay—her promised fiancé's half-brother—she sparks a dangerous game of passion and politics. Family loyalty fractures as love, jealousy, and treachery collide in a household divided by opposing allegiances to crown and empire.
D. K. (Dorothy Kathleen) Broster
The Wounded Name
"The Wounded Name" by D. K. Broster is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the Bourbon Restoration in France, the story revolves around the complex relationships and internal struggles of its characters, particularly focusing on Laurent de Courtomer and his encounter with Aymar de la Rocheterie, known as L'Oiseleur. The themes of loyalty, identity, and the tensions between past and present are likely to be explored as these characters navigate a world still fraught with the echoes of revolution. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Laurent de Courtomer, a young man on the brink of a transformative journey. As he interacts with his mother and prepares to leave England for a new life in France, hints of his personal conflicts and warmth towards his heritage emerge. After a chance meeting with L'Oiseleur during a fishing mishap, the narrative sets up a compelling friendship rooted in shared history and societal upheaval. This initial interaction foreshadows future developments as the characters navigate their paths amidst the political turmoil surrounding them, particularly in light of the royalist cause and the lingering effects of the Revolution.
Edmond Lepelletier
Madame Sans-Gêne, Tome 2 La Maréchale
"Madame Sans-Gêne, Tome 2" by Edmond Lepelletier, Émile Moreau, and Victorien Sardou is a historical novel likely written during the late 19th century. This work continues the story of Catherine Lefebvre, known as Madame Sans-Gêne, a character who vividly embodies the contrasts of social class and the turbulent times of the French Empire under Napoleon. Through its humorous and dramatic narrative, the book explores themes of ambition, loyalty, and the complexities of life at court. The opening of the novel introduces us to Madame Lefebvre in her lavish chambers at Saint-Cloud, where she recalls her humble beginnings as a laundress. As she is woken by her maid, we quickly see Catherine's spirited personality and her struggles to adapt to her new life as a maréchale. The narrative captures her comedic attempts to embrace the elegance required at the Imperial court while maintaining her brash, down-to-earth attitude. Simultaneously, the storyline sets the stage for the political intrigue of the Empire, with references to Napoleon's campaigns and the character dynamics at play among military and noble figures, hinting at both personal and national conflicts to unfold throughout the tale.
Arthur Conan Doyle
Uncle Bernac: A Memory of the Empire
"Uncle Bernac: A Memory of the Empire" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on Louis de Laval, a young man returning to France after thirteen years of exile following the upheavals of the French Revolution. As he navigates the complexities of familial reconciliation and political intrigue during the rise of Napoleon, he faces unexpected dangers and moral dilemmas, particularly shaped by his relationship with his enigmatic uncle, C. Bernac. The opening of the novel introduces Louis as he reads a letter from his uncle, inviting him back to France and hinting at his influence with Napoleon. However, the cryptic warning "Don't come," added to the letter in English, stirs suspicion and foreshadows the intrigue that lies ahead. As Louis arrives on the French coast amidst a brewing storm, he encounters both old memories and new threats. His journey into the darkness of the salt marsh not only leads him to the welcoming warmth of a cottage but plunges him into the chaotic world of conspirators fueled by revenge against the Empire. Confusion and danger escalate rapidly, positioning Louis at the heart of turmoil as the story unfolds.
Pierre Maël
Un mousse de Surcouf
"Un mousse de Surcouf" by Pierre Maël is a historical novel set in the late 18th century. The story follows the young doctor Charles Ternant and his family as they emigrate from France to seek a better life in the Americas amidst the turmoil of the French Revolution and conflicts with Britain. As they embark on their journey, they encounter the legendary corsair Robert Surcouf, whose heroic actions play a pivotal role in their fate. The opening of the novel introduces the dire circumstances surrounding the Ternant family as they board the ship "Bretagne", escaping poverty and political upheaval. Their hopes quickly turn to fear as they are pursued by British warships. Just when it seems that their plight is hopeless, the arrival of Surcouf and his vessel "Clarisse" offers a glimpse of salvation, setting the tone for adventure and heroism that will unfold in the story. This introductory chapter establishes both the historical context of the era and the personal stakes for the characters, providing a compelling backdrop for the ensuing narrative.
Edmond Lepelletier
Madame Sans-Gêne, Tome 1 Roman tiré de la Pièce de Mm. Victorien Sardou et Émile Moreau
"Madame Sans-Gêne, Tome 1" by Edmond Lepelletier, Émile Moreau, and Victorien Sardou is a historical comedy premiered in 1893. A frank-speaking Parisian washerwoman named Cathérine earns the nickname "Madame Sans-Gêne" for her blunt manner. When her husband becomes a marshal under Napoleon, she enters imperial high society but refuses to abandon her common origins. Her unpolished ways clash with court expectations, leading to a confrontation with the Emperor himself over matters of loyalty, class, and an unpaid laundry bill from his early military days.
Edmond Lepelletier
Madame Sans-Gêne, Tome 3 Le Roi de Rome
"Madame Sans-Gêne, Tome 3" by Edmond Lepelletier is a historical novel likely written during the late 19th century. This work is drawn from the play by Victorien Sardou and Émile Moreau, and it delves into the turbulent period of the Napoleonic era, exploring the intricate personal and political dynamics of the time. The story likely revolves around pivotal characters such as Napoleon Bonaparte and the Empress Marie-Louise, alongside various conspirators who plot around them. The opening of the novel sets the stage on March 20, 1811, the day of Napoleon's heir's birth, capturing the fraught atmosphere surrounding the event. As the Emperor anxiously awaits news from the delivery room while the populace shares in his anticipation, the narrative shifts to various conspirators plotting against him — from royalists hoping for a restoration to defects within Napoleon’s own ranks. The tension between the hope of a new ruling dynasty and the rising conspiratorial plots reflects a society caught in a web of ambition, revenge, and an uncertain future, converging on the significant moment that could change France's fate.
Arthur Conan Doyle
Enoni: muistoja Napoleonin ajoilta
"Enoni: muistoja Napoleonin ajoilta" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a historical novel set in the early 20th century, reflecting on the tumultuous period of Napoleon's rule in France. The narrative revolves around Louis de Laval, who receives a letter from his uncle, C. Bernac, urging him to return to France after years of exile. The letter invites him to reconcile the family's past disputes amidst the backdrop of returning to a politically charged homeland influenced by Napoleon's power. At the start of the novel, Louis reflects on his uncle's unexpected invitation while on a ship approaching the French coast. The letter reveals the complicated legacy of his family's aristocratic ties, laden with historical grievances stemming from the Revolution. Intrigued yet cautious, Louis grapples with his desire to bridge the gap between familial bonds and the historical animosities that have plagued his lineage. As he contemplates his return, the narrative builds suspense through the ominous warning, "[Elä tule!]", found on the letter's seal, and sets the stage for his journey into a world rife with political intrigue and personal reckoning.
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