Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Charles II, 1660-1685 -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Evelyn Everett-Green
In Taunton town : a story of the rebellion of James Duke of Monmouth in 1685
"In Taunton Town: A Story of the Rebellion of James Duke of Monmouth in 1685" by E. Everett-Green is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on a character named Dicon Snowe, a young man with a crooked back who is deeply affected by the political turmoil surrounding the Duke of Monmouth's rebellion against the Catholic King James II. The narrative unfolds during a period of significant social and political upheaval in England, capturing the hopes and fears of the West Country people who rally around Monmouth as a potential hero. The opening of the novel introduces us to Dicon, who reflects on his past as he prepares to recount his story. He describes his upbringing as the youngest son of a farmer, his familial connections in the innkeeping business, and the superstitions regarding his deformity, which he believes is the result of a witch's curse. The reader learns about his formative experiences, including a significant moment when he is touched by the Duke of Monmouth, which he perceives as a miracle that cures his ailments. It sets the stage for Dicon's involvement in the political climate of his time, hinting at the role the Duke will play both in his life and in the larger narrative of rebellion and loyalty amid a restless populace.
Herbert Strang
Martin of old London
"Martin of Old London" by Herbert Strang is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in 1666 amidst the backdrop of London, the story follows a young boy named Martin Leake, who is navigating life's challenges after losing his father and mother to the Plague. As he finds himself working under a strict goldsmith, Martin encounters a series of mysterious events linked to foreign sailors and his volatile employer, which leads him into adventures that test his courage and wits. The opening of the novel introduces Martin, a fourteen-year-old boy who takes solace at the riverside of London after enduring a hot day. As he wanders along the Thames, the narrative hints at upcoming intrigue when he observes a foreign sailor and later encounters a suspicious man who speaks to the sailor. Following this, readers learn of Martin's struggles at home and in his job, where he faces the ill temper of Mr. Slocum, the goldsmith's manager. As Martin navigates his daily responsibilities, he grapples with thoughts of adventure on the sea and the safety of his family, setting the stage for the unfolding mystery and challenges he will face throughout the story.
Lucy Ellen Guernsey
Through unknown ways : $b An Old-World story
"Through unknown ways: An Old-World story" by Lucy Ellen Guernsey is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the late Stuart era, it follows Dolly (Dorothy), a penniless but educated gentlewoman serving as companion to the sharp-tongued Lady Corbet, who keeps a secret diary of her trials, faith questions, and small hopes in London near Whitehall. Drawn between the kindness of Mrs. Williams, the patronage of Lady Clarenham and her kinsman Mr. Studley, and the charm of the dashing Captain Morley, Dolly navigates class and conscience amid mounting religious and political tensions. Hints of a family mystery—a sealed locket from Sir Charles Corbet—and the looming turmoil of the Monmouth period frame a story of moral testing and quiet courage. The opening of the novel unfolds as Dolly is given a small room and a hidden cabinet in Sir Charles Corbet’s long-closed house; finding blank books, she resolves to keep a journal. She recounts her past—soldier father dead abroad, capable mother ruined by a sanctimonious cheat, schooling at Hackney, then orphaned service under Lady Corbet—and Sir Charles’s deathbed gift of a secret locket she must not open. From her new window near the park she glimpses court life as Charles II sickens and dies, James II ascends, and the city shifts mood; she meets the kind Lady Clarenham and earnest Mr. Studley, reads “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” and endures Lady Corbet’s stinginess and scorn. Captain Morley pays gallant court, provoking Ursula Robertson’s jealousy, while Mrs. Williams warns Dolly to guard her reputation; Morley departs north on military business. A stark scene follows when Dr. Bates and Mr. Pendergast solicit help for the prosecuted Richard Baxter: Lady Corbet grudges a pittance, but Dolly quietly gives her own gold. As rumors of unrest spread, Ursula’s betrothed Mr. Andrews dies and she hastily resolves to wed the wealthy Mr. Jackson—likely out of pique at news of Morley—leaving Dolly soberly chronicling these first turns of fortune and conscience.
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