Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Charles I, 1625-1649 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Neil Munro
John Splendid: The Tale of a Poor Gentleman, and the Little Wars of Lorn
"John Splendid: The Tale of a Poor Gentleman, and the Little Wars of Lorn" by Neil Munro is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in the Scottish Highlands and follows the protagonist, Colin Elrigmore, as he returns home to Inneraora after years of military service abroad, only to find his homeland rife with unrest and conflict. The narrative intertwines themes of adventure, personal growth, and the contrasts between the tranquil countryside and the upheaval brought about by external and internal strife. The opening of the book introduces Elrigmore as he reflects on his long-awaited homecoming, dreaming of how he would be received after his time at Glasgow College and his service in the foreign wars. As he rides into town, he is initially filled with nostalgia, only to be confronted by grim signs of unrest: corpses hanging from the gallows and hints of lawlessness in the town. This melancholy setting is driven home when he discovers his mother's death upon his arrival. Themes of longing, loss, and the harsh realities of life unfold, leading Elrigmore to face several societal changes and conflicts, including the complex dynamics between rival clans, particularly the Campbells and MacLachlans. This rich backdrop sets the stage for the audience to explore Elrigmore's character development and the challenges he will confront in a land marked by both beauty and turmoil.
Arthur Quiller-Couch
The Splendid Spur Being Memoirs of the Adventures of Mr. John Marvel, a Servant of His Late Majesty King Charles I, in the Years 1642-3
"The Splendid Spur" by Arthur Quiller-Couch is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the English Civil War, the story follows the adventures of Mr. John Marvel, a servant of King Charles I. Through John’s eyes, readers are introduced to themes of loyalty, bravery, and the chaos of war, as he navigates the intrigues and dangers of his time. At the start of the novel, we meet John Marvel, a scholar at Trinity College in Oxford, who fortuitously witnesses a tense encounter involving a mysterious old man and a young nobleman at a tavern. As John becomes embroiled in the tumultuous events surrounding them—characterized by brawls, murder, and daring escapes—he finds himself drawn into a life of adventure far removed from the academic pursuits of his studies. The opening hints at a blend of humor and drama, positioning John as a central figure who must rely on his wits and courage while traversing a world marked by peril and intrigue.
Rafael Sabatini
The tavern knight
"The Tavern Knight" by Rafael Sabatini is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story is set during the tumultuous period of the English Civil War and revolves around Sir Crispin Galliard, dubbed the Tavern Knight, who embodies a complicated blend of roguish charm and a tortured past, struggling with themes of honor, love, and revenge. The book introduces his tumultuous relationship with a young Scotsman, Kenneth Stewart, as they navigate the perils of their factional loyalties and personal grievances. At the start of the novel, we meet Sir Crispin Galliard, who is portrayed with a dark, sardonic humor and a troubled demeanor in a meager tavern setting. He is engaged in a petty exchange with Kenneth Stewart, who has a more virtuous and puritanical perspective. Their interaction is interrupted by the arrival of an Irishman named Hogan, who seeks refuge after committing a violent act, setting the stage for a series of events that will challenge the moral and ethical boundaries of both men. As Crispin lies about his past in an unrepentant attitude, the opening chapters serve to establish their complex relationship against the backdrop of impending danger, suggesting a story rich in conflict, loyalty, and the search for redemption.
J. H. (Joseph Henry) Shorthouse
John Inglesant: A Romance (Volume 2 of 2)
"John Inglesant: A Romance (Volume 2 of 2)" by J. H. Shorthouse is a historical novel published in 1881. Set in 17th-century England, it follows an Anglican caught between Catholic and High Church intrigue during the turbulent reign of Charles I. The hero navigates royal court politics, fights in the English Civil War, faces treason charges, and pursues his brother's murderer to Italy. This is a contemplative work focused on religious and philosophical debates rather than action, exploring themes of faith, loyalty, and moral conflict.
Robert Barr
Over the Border: A Romance
"Over the Border: A Romance" by Robert Barr is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds during a tumultuous period in English history, focusing on the character of Thomas Wentworth, Earl of Strafford, who faces political intrigue and personal dilemmas before the backdrop of a society on the brink of change. The story is set against issues of loyalty, identity, and familial ties as Frances Wentworth, the Earl's unexpected daughter, seeks to navigate her way through a world steeped in danger and uncertainty. The opening of the book introduces readers to a fine day in November as the Earl of Strafford walks through Hampton Court Palace's Home Park with a group of nobles, despite his failing health. Amidst this seemingly tranquil environment, there are whispers of conspiracy regarding his political fate. The scene shifts dramatically when Frances Wentworth, the Earl's daughter, confronts her father for the first time, revealing her unexpected lineage and demonstrating her courage. As tensions rise in the kingdom, the Earl must grapple with the growing threats against him, setting the stage for a tale filled with emotional depth, political maneuvering, and a daughter’s determination to claim her place within a fractured family.
J. H. (Joseph Henry) Shorthouse
John Inglesant: A Romance (Volume 1 of 2)
"John Inglesant: A Romance (Volume 1 of 2)" by J. H. Shorthouse is a historical novel published in 1881. Set in 17th-century England, it follows an Anglican man educated by Jesuits who becomes entangled in religious intrigues between the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England. He serves as a courtier to Charles I, fights in the English Civil War, faces treason charges, and pursues his brother's murderer to Italy. Despite its dramatic plot, this is primarily a philosophical work exploring religious ideas through extensive theological debates.
Rafael Sabatini
Kuninkaan miekkamies : $b Historiallinen seikkailuromaani
"Kuninkaan miekkamies: Historiallinen seikkailuromaani" by Rafael Sabatini is a historical adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Sir Crispin Galliard, a brash and roguish knight, who finds himself embroiled in the turmoil of the English Civil War. With a mix of humor and danger, the plot promises intrigue and action as Crispin navigates a world filled with political strife and personal conflict. The opening of the novel introduces us to a dimly lit tavern where Sir Crispin, described as a 'krouviritari' (a tavern knight), displays his boisterous personality through song and bravado, annoying a young man named Kenneth Stewart. Their interaction reveals a tension between Crispin's cavalier attitude and Kenneth's sense of propriety. Suddenly, the atmosphere shifts when a desperate Irishman named Hogan bursts in, seeking refuge after committing murder. Crispin reluctantly agrees to help Hogan escape, leading Kenneth into a morally complicated situation. This initial encounter sets the stage for themes of loyalty, honor, and the chaos of war, creating an intriguing premise for readers to delve deeper into the ensuing adventures.
Mayne Reid
No Quarter!
"No Quarter!" by Captain Mayne Reid is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the English Civil War, the story explores themes of loyalty, power struggles, and the concept of kingship through interactions among characters such as King Charles I and his wife Henrietta, alongside other historical figures. It delves into the complex relationships and conflicts between various factions of the time, with a focus on royal prerogative versus the emerging responsibilities of Parliament. At the start of the novel, the prologue captures a moment in history marked by political tension, where Queen Henrietta urges King Charles to dismiss Parliament to reclaim absolute power, showcasing her ambitious nature. Key dialogues unfold between the couple, revealing the queen's disdain for Parliament and her extreme views on governance. Following this, the story introduces a duel between two horsemen representing differing political ideologies—one a republican and the other a cavaliers—leading to themes of honor, rivalry, and camaraderie as they navigate their political beliefs. The opening sets the stage for a tumultuous period in history, filled with intrigue and the clash of ideals.
Emily Grace Harding
A noble sacrifice
Also published under the title: A fatal heritage.
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