Subject
France -- History -- Wars of the Vendée, 1793-1832 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charles Reade
White Lies
"White Lies" by Charles Reade is a novel written during the late 19th century, which explores themes of nobility, loss, and the complexities of social class during a time of political upheaval in France. The story centers on the family of the late Baron de Beaurepaire, particularly his widow and two daughters, Josephine and Rose, as they navigate life after the baron's death against the backdrop of the French Revolution and its societal ramifications. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the Baron de Beaurepaire and his esteemed family lineage, which is now threatened by the tumultuous political landscape following the Revolution. The baroness and her daughters grapple with financial difficulties and the loss of their social standing while reflecting on their past prosperity. The baroness, supported by close family friend Dr. Aubertin, tries to maintain their dignity despite their declining circumstances. The story unfolds to reveal the sisters' budding interactions with Edouard Riviere, a young official who becomes increasingly intrigued by them, setting the stage for the exploration of class, honor, and romance amidst their struggles.
D. K. (Dorothy Kathleen) Broster
Chantemerle : $b A romance of the Vendean War
"Chantemerle: A Romance of the Vendean War" by D. K. Broster and G. Winifred Taylor is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set during the tumultuous period of the Vendean War in 1792, the story revolves around the complexities of love, loyalty, and the political upheaval of the time. The main characters include Lucienne, a young woman caught in a tumultuous love affair, and Louis, her passionate suitor, who must reconcile their relationship with considerations of honor and duty. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a richly atmospheric setting in the Tuileries Palace, where Lucienne daydreams while snow falls outside. She receives a visit from Louis, who brings her violets and ignites a passionate exchange fraught with the tension of their social situations—Lucienne is betrothed to Gilbert, the heir of a noble family. The narrative delves into their complex emotions, revealing how their love is tested by the societal constraints they navigate. As this private struggle unfolds, it hints at the broader backdrop of political unrest looming in France, setting the stage for a riveting exploration of personal and political entanglement as the story progresses.
Anthony Trollope
La Vendée
"La Vendée" by Anthony Trollope is a historical romance written during the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, focusing on the experiences of royalist supporters in the Vendée region. It centers upon characters such as M. de Lescure and Henri de Larochejaquelin, who are deeply embroiled in the conflict as they seek to restore the monarchy amidst the chaos of revolutionary fervor. The opening of "La Vendée" presents the dire state of France in 1792, detailing the aftermath of the King’s overthrow and the rising revolutionary sentiments in Paris. We meet a group of royalist youths, known as the Poitevins, who gather in support of their imprisoned King Louis XVI and strive to organize resistance against the republicans. Notably, M. de Lescure is introduced as a compassionate yet brave leader, alongside the impetuous Henri de Larochejaquelin, who is driven by a passionate loyalty to the monarchy. Tensions are palpable as royalists react to increasingly oppressive sentiments, and the chapter culminates in the urgency felt by these young men to act in their King’s defense, setting the stage for the impending civil conflict in the Vendée.
J. (Jules) Barbey d'Aurevilly
Le Chevalier des Touches
"Le Chevalier des Touches" by J. Barbey d'Aurevilly is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the socio-political turmoil of post-Revolutionary France, focusing on themes of loyalty, nostalgia, and the echoes of past conflicts. The narrative revolves around the enigmatic figure of the Chevalier des Touches, exploring his presence and the impressions he leaves on those who remember him. The opening of the novel introduces us to the quiet yet ominous town of Valognes during the late Restoration period. As the town's residents hunker down against the elements, a mysterious figure—a man with an elegant old-world appearance—arrives. He is later identified as an abbé who has encountered the notorious Chevalier des Touches, described in a haunting manner that captivates those gathered in the parlor of the Touffedelys sisters. This encounter sets off a series of reflections on the past among the characters, who are bound by memories, loyalty to the Bourbon monarchy, and the scars of civil war, foreshadowing a deeper exploration of their intertwined fates as the mystery of the Chevalier unfolds.
Albert Delpit
Jean-nu-pieds, Vol. 2 chronique de 1832
"Jean-nu-pieds, Vol. 2" by Albert Delpit is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the Vendée wars during the French Revolution, the narrative pivots around the trials and tribulations of characters such as Fernande and the titular Jean-Nu-Pieds, who grapple with love and loyalty amidst civil strife. The book explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the complexities of personal vs. historical obligations, particularly within the rich tapestry of French history. The opening of this volume introduces the modest church in the village of Rassé, where a young woman named Fernande is fervently praying for divine intervention in her troubled love life. She has recently shed her disguise and is desperate for help from the noble Madame, whom she believes holds the key to her happiness. The narrative unfolds through her emotional turmoil, showcasing her plea to God and the quiet support of a mysterious peasant who turns out to be a noble in disguise, revealing deeper connections between the characters. This initial scene sets the stage for an intricate tale of love, societal divisions, and the quest for a place in a tumultuous world, drawing readers into the heart of the characters' struggles.
Albert Delpit
Jean-nu-pieds, Vol. 1 chronique de 1832
"Jean-nu-pieds, Vol. 1" by Albert Delpit is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set during the turbulent times surrounding the July Revolution of 1830 in France, focusing on the life of M. de Kardigân, a devoted royalist and his family as they navigate the dangers and moral complexities of political upheaval. Central to the narrative is the loyal servant Aubin Ploguen and the impact of the revolution on the marquis's children, particularly as their fates intertwine with the political loyalties of their father. The opening of the novel introduces us to the marquis de Kardigân and his servant Aubin Ploguen, who are riding with great urgency towards Paris, where turmoil is brewing. As they approach the city, the narrative foreshadows the challenges they will face amid escalating tensions and revolutionary fervor. The marquis is driven by a blend of paternal affection and a sense of duty, eager to reunite with his children. However, as they arrive, the chaos of the revolution becomes apparent with the sound of gunfire and the sight of conflict, leading to a deep emotional conflict that will resonate throughout the story, setting a tragic tone for the unfolding drama of loyalty, duty, and loss.
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