Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Elizabeth, 1558-1603 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charles Kingsley
Westward Ho! Or, The Voyages and Adventures of Sir Amyas Leigh, Knight, of Burrough, in the County of Devon, in the Reign of Her Most Glorious Majesty Queen Elizabeth
"Westward Ho! Or, The Voyages and Adventures of Sir Amyas Leigh, Knight, of…" by Charles Kingsley is a historical novel published in 1855. Set during Elizabeth I's reign, it follows adventurer Amyas Leigh from Devon to the Caribbean in pursuit of gold and glory. When tragedy strikes—his beloved Rose and brother Frank burned by the Spanish Inquisition—Amyas vows vengeance against Spain. Through sea battles, romance with an Indian maiden, and defense against the Armada, this patriotic tale celebrates England's Elizabethan triumphs while exploring themes of faith, revenge, and redemption.
Mark Twain
1601: Conversation as it was by the Social Fireside in the Time of the Tudors
"1601: Conversation as it was by the Social Fireside in the Time of the Tudors" by Mark Twain is a satirical squib written in 1876 and first published anonymously in 1880. Presented as a diary entry from Queen Elizabeth I's cup-bearer, the piece records a bawdy conversation between the queen and famous Elizabethan writers including Shakespeare, Ben Jonson, and Walter Raleigh. The dialogue explores scandalous topics through vulgar humor and irreverent comedy. Once considered unprintable and circulated only in private editions, this ribald work remained underground until the 1960s.
Walter Scott
Kenilworth
"Kenilworth" by Walter Scott is a historical romance novel published in 1821. Set in Elizabethan England, it tells the story of Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, who secretly marries Amy Robsart while pursuing Queen Elizabeth's favor and political power. Torn between his ambitious courtship of the Queen and his hidden wife's passionate devotion, Leicester conceals the truth with dangerous consequences. As royal festivities at Kenilworth Castle approach, deception and treachery threaten to unravel his carefully guarded secret with devastating results.
Charlotte M. (Charlotte Mary) Yonge
Unknown to History: A Story of the Captivity of Mary of Scotland
"Unknown to History: A Story of the Captivity of Mary of Scotland" by Charlotte M. Yonge is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the captivity of Mary, Queen of Scots, and explores the events surrounding her imprisonment from the perspective of fictional characters, particularly the Talbot family, who become involved with Mary's plight. The book delves into themes of loyalty, familial duty, and the tumultuous sociopolitical landscape of 16th-century Scotland and England. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Mistress Susan Talbot, a sailor's wife, who lives in Hull with her young family. As she awaits her husband's return from sea, the arrival of a shipwrecked infant—a girl—upturns their lives. The child, dubbed a "little waif," sparks curiosity and compassion within the household, leading to discussions about her unknown lineage. Amidst this backdrop, news of Captain Talbot's return and the recent mishaps amongst the nobility brings additional tension to their domestic life. The opening establishes the characters, their interactions, and the historical context integral to Mary's story, setting the stage for the complexities that will unfold as the captor and the captive navigate their intertwined fates.
Maurice Hewlett
The Queen's Quair; or, The Six Years' Tragedy
"The Queen's Quair; or, The Six Years' Tragedy" by Maurice Hewlett is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers on the life and struggles of Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, as she navigates the complex political landscape of her time, marked by love, betrayal, and the quest for power. The narrative aims to explore her emotional tumult and the circumstances that shaped her tragic fate. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Queen Mary, who is currently mourning the death of her husband, King Francis. The opening scenes depict the tension between her and the influential figures surrounding her, particularly the Cardinal of Lorraine, who wishes to control her political destiny. As she grapples with her desires and her precarious position, the allegiances and rivalries among her maids of honor and relatives become apparent. Mary then resolves to take charge of her future, leading her to contemplate marriage to various suitors who can help reclaim her standing. The opening sets the stage for a tale steeped in intrigue and the heavy burdens of royal expectations.
Robert Neilson Stephens
A Gentleman Player; His Adventures on a Secret Mission for Queen Elizabeth
"A Gentleman Player; His Adventures on a Secret Mission for Queen Elizabeth" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the late 16th and early 17th centuries and centers around Hal Marryott, a struggling actor who stumbles into a secretive world of intrigue involving Queen Elizabeth I and the events surrounding the performance of Shakespeare's “Hamlet.” The narrative captures the vibrant atmosphere of the Globe Theatre, deftly blending historical context with the art of performance and personal ambition. The opening of the novel invites readers into the bustling Globe Theatre on the day of the first performance of "Hamlet." Hal Marryott, nervous about his debut in a significant role, encounters Shakespeare and other actors as they prepare for the show. Amidst the excitement and tension, audiences are introduced to the various characters and dynamics within the theatre as Hal grapples with his own insecurities. Following the play's successful premiere, Hal's fortunes take an unexpected turn when he finds himself in the Queen's garden, leading to a shocking revelation regarding a dangerous mission tasked to him by Queen Elizabeth herself. This sets the stage for an intertwining of personal aspirations and political intrigue as Hal's journey evolves.
Gilbert Parker
Michel and Angele [A Ladder of Swords] — Complete
"Michel and Angele" by Gilbert Parker is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. It is set against a historical backdrop, primarily dealing with the lives of Huguenot refugees in England, particularly focusing on the intertwined destinies of its main characters, Michel de la Foret and Angele Aubert. The story appears to explore themes of love, sacrifice, and identity amidst adversity. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the historical context through original records from the Walloon Church in Southampton, detailing Michel's marriage to Angele. It quickly shifts into a romantic narrative that weaves their personal stories with broader historical events, revealing Angele's longing for Michel as he faces dangers. Angele's fierce loyalty and determination to reunite with Michel are set against the risks they both endure as Huguenots. As Michel takes on perilous journeys, the opening establishes a rich tapestry of characters and emotional stakes that hint at the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
Walter Savage Landor
Citation and Examination of William Shakspeare, Euseby Treen, Joseph Carnaby, and Silas Gough, Clerk
"Citation and Examination of William Shakspeare" is a historical account written in the late 19th century, rediscovered from original papers. This work is a dramatized depiction of an actual event where a young William Shakespeare is brought before Sir Thomas Lucy, a magistrate, to be examined for deer-stealing. The book combines elements of wit and humor while portraying the social dynamics and legal practices of Elizabethan England, exploring themes of justice, reputation, and ambition through Shakespeare's character. At the start of the book, the youthful William Shakespeare is humorously introduced as he stands accused of deer-stealing before Sir Thomas Lucy. The atmosphere is tense yet playful, as Shakespeare engages in witty exchanges with the magistrate and his chaplain, Silas Gough, creatively defending himself while avoiding serious consequences. The examination unfolds with Shakespeare's clever wordplay and repartee, overshadowing the gravity of the charges against him. Through the early dialogues and interactions among the characters, readers are treated to a lively exploration of Shakespeare's personality and the societal norms of the period, setting the stage for a unique blend of historical fiction and comedic commentary.
Rafael Sabatini
The hounds of God : $b A romance
No description available.
Robert Neilson Stephens
Captain Ravenshaw; Or, The Maid of Cheapside. A Romance of Elizabethan London
"Captain Ravenshaw; Or, The Maid of Cheapside" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the Elizabethan era, it explores the lives of ordinary Londoners, focusing on the titular character, Captain Ravenshaw, a soldier who navigates the complexities of his reputation as a swaggering braggart while seeking a meaningful life. The novel immerses readers in a rich tapestry of the time, blending adventure and romance against the backdrop of 16th-century London. At the start of the story, we find Captain Ravenshaw at the Windmill tavern, drinking with a group of young gentlemen. Despite his bravado and tales of past exploits, Ravenshaw's status as a "roaring boy" draws scorn from one of the gentlemen present, leading to a humorous altercation over supper. As he storms out, the narrative shifts focus to a scholar named Ralph Holyday, who inadvertently captures a roast fowl flung in the heat of the argument. This chance encounter sets in motion the intertwining stories of various characters, including Captain Ravenshaw, as they navigate love, reputation, and the bustling life of Elizabethan London. The opening captures the lively spirit of the time and introduces themes of camaraderie, conflict, and the quest for personal redemption.
Julian Stafford Corbett
For God and Gold
"For God and Gold" by Julian Stafford Corbett is a historical narrative that likely examines themes from the late 19th century. The text appears to depict the life of Mr. Jasper Festing, a scholar and Puritan, as he navigates the complexities of his father's death and the political and religious tensions of his time. The book also introduces a significant character, Sir Francis Drake, integrating historical events such as Drake's voyages, which could further illuminate the interplay between history and individual experience. The opening of the narrative sets the stage with reflections from Jasper Festing, who, at fourteen, deals with his father's austere legacy while longing for freedom and personal growth. It outlines significant relationships and events surrounding his father's death and the arrival of influential figures, including Sir Fulke Waldyve and the preacher Drake, hinting at a tumultuous socio-political landscape. Festing's internal struggles and aspirations unfold, as he grapples with the significance of his father's legacy and begins to understand the broader implications of faith and ambition within the context of a changing England.
Robert Hugh Benson
By What Authority?
"By What Authority?" by Robert Hugh Benson is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set during the tumultuous religious conflicts of Elizabethan England, the narrative explores the intertwining lives of several characters living in a small village, particularly focusing on the Catholic Maxwell family and the Protestant Norris family. The story delves into themes of faith, loyalty, and the personal impact of broader societal struggles, showcasing the complexities of religious identity during this period. At the start of the novel, the setting is introduced in the village of Great Keynes, juxtaposing the quiet life there with the political unrest affecting England. The narrative centers on the Maxwell family, particularly old Sir Nicholas, who remains steadfast in his Catholic faith despite the pressures of the Reformation, and his two sons, Mr. James and Hubert, each representing different responses to the era's changing religious landscape. Meanwhile, the Norris family represents the Protestant perspective, particularly through Mr. Norris and his daughter Isabel, who grapples with her feelings toward the suave and complex Hubert. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for the central conflicts of the novel, outlining the complicated relationships between these characters as they navigate their faiths amid external challenges and personal dilemmas.
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