Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Regency, 1800-1837 -- Fiction Books
Best books
R. D. (Richard Doddridge) Blackmore
Springhaven: A Tale of the Great War
"Springhaven: A Tale of the Great War" by R. D. Blackmore is a novel published in 1887. Set on England's Sussex coast during the Napoleonic Wars, it follows the sinister Captain Caryl Carne, a half-French, half-English villain who plots to aid a French invasion. As invasion fears grip the coastline, Carne fills his ancestral castle with gunpowder and conspires with Napoleon's forces at Boulogne. The story weaves together naval officers, an admiral's headstrong daughters, and brief appearances by both Nelson and Napoleon himself.
Frances Aymar Mathews
My Lady Peggy Goes to Town
"My Lady Peggy Goes to Town" by Frances Aymar Mathews is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the spirited Lady Peggy Burgoyne as she navigates youthful romance, familial obligations, and the societal expectations of her time. The narrative centers on her playful yet tumultuous relationship with Sir Percy, her adventures in London, and her determination to assert her identity amid the chaos of love and social intrigue. The opening of the story introduces Lady Peggy as she eagerly awaits the return of her lover, Sir Percy, after cutting short a visit to her godmother. As she swings in a plum tree, her playful banter reveals her strong will and whimsical character, hinting at a series of romantic entanglements. Through humorous exchanges with her waiting maid, Chockey, and musings about her various suitors, readers get a glimpse of her vibrant personality. The setup showcases Peggy's inner conflict and her desire for adventure, laying the groundwork for her journey to London, where she seeks not only her heart's desire but also a deeper understanding of herself.
Thomas Hardy
The Trumpet-Major
"The Trumpet-Major" by Thomas Hardy is a historical novel published in 1880. Set in Weymouth during the Napoleonic Wars, it follows Anne Garland as she navigates the affections of three very different suitors: the honorable John Loveday, a trumpet major; his flighty sailor brother Bob; and the cowardly Festus Derriman. Against a backdrop of military camps and invasion fears, the brothers serve with Wellington and Nelson while Anne's heart wavers between duty and desire. Unusually for Hardy, the ending isn't entirely tragic—though fate looms ominously.
Jeffery Farnol
The Honourable Mr. Tawnish
"The Honourable Mr. Tawnish" by Jeffery Farnol is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of gentlemen, including Sir John Chester, Sir Richard Eden, and Bentley, as they navigate the complexities of friendship, love, and duels while dealing with the arrival of the foppish Mr. Horatio Tawnish, who becomes the object of their scrutiny and concern. The tension builds as they grapple with issues of honor and family regarding their beloved, Lady Penelope. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a tense and engaging atmosphere, primarily through conversations among Sir John Chester, Richard Eden, and Bentley after a dog-fighting match. They discuss their concerns over the reckless and dangerous Sir Harry Raikes while expressing exasperation over Mr. Tawnish, who becomes a love interest for Penelope, Chester's daughter. The narrative sets up a humorous yet serious conflict as Chester confronts Tawnish about his intentions toward Penelope, revealing the contrasting personalities and comedic misunderstandings among the characters. This rich background sets the stage for the unfolding drama of love, rivalry, and the pursuit of honor that promises to unfold throughout the novel.
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