Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Commonwealth and Protectorate, 1649-1660 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Walter Scott
Woodstock; or, the Cavalier
"Woodstock; or, the Cavalier" by Walter Scott is a historical novel published in 1826. Set after the English Civil War, the story follows the perilous attempt to protect the fugitive Charles II from Cromwell's forces. At Woodstock Manor, mysterious supernatural events terrify parliamentary commissioners, while Royalist sympathizers risk everything to shelter the king. Family loyalties clash when Roundhead Colonel Everard must choose between duty and blood, as his uncle Sir Henry Lee and cousin Alice become entangled in the dangerous conspiracy surrounding the royal escape.
William Harrison Ainsworth
Boscobel; or, the royal oak: A tale of the year 1651
"Boscobel; or, The Royal Oak: A Tale of the Year 1651" by William Harrison Ainsworth is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. It recounts the adventures of King Charles II during his flight and escapades after the Battle of Worcester, focusing particularly on his hiding in the Royal Oak at Boscobel. The narrative interweaves themes of loyalty, bravery, and the dynamics of royalists versus parliamentarians, centering around notable characters such as Charles himself and his loyal aides. The opening of the tale introduces readers to the context of the events surrounding the battle, illustrating the devastation faced by Worcester as a stronghold for royalists. It vividly sets the stage for Charles's return to the city to rally support and reclaim his position. As Charles gathers intelligence about his forces and engages with citizens, we see the backdrop of loyalty against oppression, and the inciting incidents begin to unfold, hinting at the challenges and allies he will encounter in his quest for the throne. The interaction between characters is characterized by a mixture of tension and camaraderie, capturing the volatile atmosphere of the time.
Emmuska Orczy Orczy
The Nest of the Sparrowhawk: A Romance of the XVIIth Century
"The Nest of the Sparrowhawk: A Romance of the XVIIth Century" by Baroness Orczy is a novel written in 1909. Set in Puritan Kent in 1657, the story follows the sinister machinations of Sir Marmaduke de Chevasse, a Roundhead guardian determined to claim his young ward Lady Sue's fortune. Through cunning disguises and ruthless schemes, he removes obstacles standing in his way—including Sue's devoted admirer Richard Lambert. But his elaborate plot entangles his own family in unexpected tragedy and disgrace.
Walter Scott
Kuninkaan mies: Historiallinen romaani
"Kuninkaan mies: Historiallinen romaani" by Walter Scott is a historical novel written in the early 19th century. The book addresses the tumultuous period of the English Civil War, focusing on the struggles surrounding loyalty to the monarchy and the consequences of political conflict. Central to this narrative are characters such as Henry Lee and his daughter Alice, who must navigate the challenges posed by their loyalties and the shifting power dynamics of the time. The opening of the novel introduces a scene in the decaying church of Woodstock as a congregation gathers to hold a service in gratitude for a recent victory in battle. However, tensions arise when a soldier disrupts the proceedings, leading to a heated confrontation between him and the local pastor. This incident sets the tone for the ongoing struggles between royalists and parliamentarians in the area. As various social classes react to the conflict, Scott vividly depicts the societal upheaval and the personal dilemmas faced by individuals caught in the crossfire of history, especially emphasizing the character of Henry Lee, who yearns to protect his home and legacy against encroaching threats.
Elizabeth Rundle Charles
On both sides of the sea : $b A story of the Commonwealth and the Restoration
"On Both Sides of the Sea: A Story of the Commonwealth and the Restoration" is a historical novel likely written in the mid to late 19th century. The book dramatizes the period surrounding the English Civil War, the execution of King Charles I, and the dawning of the English Commonwealth, focusing on the experiences of intertwined Royalist and Parliamentarian families. The story unfolds primarily through personal recollections and diaries, immersing readers in the ethical dilemmas, sorrow, and political strife of the era, with characters such as Olive, Roger, and Lettice at its center. The opening of the novel plunges the reader directly into the emotional turmoil of the day King Charles I is executed, as recounted by Olive. The narrative vividly portrays the silent, grief-stricken city, the stark division between Royalists and Commonwealth supporters, and the inner conflicts of those entangled personally and politically in the seismic national events. This somber historical backdrop is deepened by Lettice’s diary, which explores her crisis of faith following her mother’s death and grapples with moral uncertainty brought on by the king’s execution—particularly as it tears her apart from Roger, whom she loves. As the story progresses, through additional chapters and shifting viewpoints, the novel expands on the challenges of the new Republic, the rise of unrest, and the spiritual and political questions confronting families and soldiers alike. The opening thus sets a tone of intimate reflection woven through tumultuous historical change, providing a multi-faceted look at a turning point in English history.
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