Subject
Great Britain -- History -- Wars of the Roses, 1455-1485 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
The Last of the Barons — Complete
"The Last of the Barons — Complete" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The book weaves a narrative set during the reign of Edward IV of England, focusing particularly on the dynamics of the powerful and influential Earl of Warwick, known as the King-maker. Through the lens of Warwick's life and his complex relationship with King Edward IV, the story explores themes of power, loyalty, and the shifting alliances during the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a vibrant scene at a holiday festival in early spring of 1467, where citizens gather for archery competitions. It sets the stage for the complexities of social class and rivalry between nobles and the burgeoning middle class. Characters such as Nicholas Alwyn, a humble trader, and Marmaduke Nevile, a nobleman, are established, highlighting the contrasting perspectives of the time. Furthermore, we meet Sibyll Warner, a scholar’s daughter, who faces ridicule but exhibits a strong character. Through these characters, the novel hints at the intricate interplay of personal ambition, social upheaval, and the powerful figures like Warwick, who will significantly impact the historical landscape.
Robert Louis Stevenson
The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses
"The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a historical novel first serialized in 1883. Set during England's Wars of the Roses, it follows young Richard Shelton as he uncovers dark secrets about his father's murder. Suspecting his guardian Sir Daniel Brackley, Dick is forced to flee and join a mysterious band of outlaws who strike with black arrows. Swept into civil war, he must rescue his beloved Joanna, seek justice, and navigate treacherous allegiances in a land torn by conflict.
Robert Louis Stevenson
The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses
"The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a historical adventure novel first serialized in 1883. Set during England's Wars of the Roses, it follows young Richard Shelton as he uncovers the truth about his father's murder. Suspected by his guardian Sir Daniel Brackley, Dick joins a band of forest outlaws who mark their targets with black arrows. His quest for justice intertwines with rescuing the disguised heiress Joanna Sedley, sweeping them both into the greater conflict between warring factions.
Charlotte M. (Charlotte Mary) Yonge
Grisly Grisell; Or, The Laidly Lady of Whitburn: A Tale of the Wars of the Roses
"Grisly Grisell; Or, The Laidly Lady of Whitburn" by Charlotte M. Yonge is a historical novel that likely emerged in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the Wars of the Roses, the story revolves around young Grisell Dacre, the daughter of the Baron of Whitburn, who faces tragic circumstances following an accident caused by her childhood companion, Leonard Copeland. This incident sets off a chain of events that thrusts her into a world of political intrigue and societal expectations. The opening of the novel introduces a bustling Manor-house at Amesbury where a tragic accident occurs involving Grisell and a group of children experimenting with gunpowder. Following the explosion, Grisell is severely injured and taken under the care of the Countess of Salisbury, while discussions of her future, particularly her political marriage to Leonard, unfold amidst rising tensions between their feuding families. The narrative hints at deeper themes of identity and acceptance, particularly for Grisell, who hears her mother's harsh words about her appearance after the accident and fears for her future amidst social pressures. This captivating introduction sets the stage for Grisell's tumultuous journey within a historically rich and character-driven narrative.
Harold Frederic
The Deserter, and Other Stories: A Book of Two Wars
"The Deserter and Other Stories: A Book of Two Wars" by Harold Frederic is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book explores themes related to the Civil War era, focusing on the lives of those affected by war, including deserters and their families. Central to the first story is Job Parshall, a young boy working on a farm, where he encounters Mose Whipple, a deserter trying to find his way back to his ailing father. The opening of the story introduces Job on a bitterly cold winter morning as he carries out his chores on the Teachout farm. During his tasks, he discovers a handmade ring that leads to discussions about Mose Whipple, who has deserted the army and is associated with Job's memories of his own family struggles. As Job learns of Mose's plight and his father's illness, he resolves to visit the ailing old man, leading to a fateful encounter with Mose in the barn. Their interactions reveal the harsh realities of their circumstances, underscoring the emotional weight of war's impact on individuals and families.
Emily Sarah Holt
Red and White: A Tale of the Wars of the Roses
"Red and White: A Tale of the Wars of the Roses" by Emily Sarah Holt is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the Wars of the Roses, focusing on the tumultuous lives of noble families during this period of conflict. The story begins with the experiences of young characters, notably Frideswide and Dorathie, who are drawn into the personal and political upheaval that characterizes their world, indicating themes of loyalty, love, and the impacts of civil strife. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to two sisters, Frideswide and Dorathie, who are facing the impending separation from their older sisters due to the call of duty to serve noble ladies. Dorathie expresses her fears of loneliness, while Frideswide reassures her with the notion of duty as a source of happiness. As the opening progresses, it subtly paints the harsh realities of the Wars of the Roses, illustrating the deep divisions within families and the complexities of allegiance. The domestic struggles of the characters are intertwined with the larger historical events, setting the stage for a tale that promises to blend personal drama with the broader strokes of a nation's strife.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
The Last of the Barons — Volume 04
"The Last of the Barons — Volume 04" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel written during the mid-19th century. The narrative unfolds during the tumultuous and politically charged era of Edward IV in England, centered around the intrigues and conflicts stemming from the War of the Roses. The story primarily follows Margaret of Anjou, the exiled queen, as she grapples with her dwindling power and the machinations of her adversaries, set against a backdrop of civil unrest and courtly betrayal. At the start of the text, we are introduced to Robert Hilyard, a conspirator disguised as a priest, who seeks Margaret, reflecting the desperation of the Lancastrian cause as they navigate the scheming court. Hilyard informs Margaret that their plans are in danger as documents related to their uprising are in the hands of Hastings, a courtier aligned with Edward IV. As tension escalates, Margaret wrestles with her pride and refusal to flee, while her ally urges her to abandon her regal garments for safety. The opening portion vividly sets the stage for the unfolding political drama, highlighting the central characters' motivations, desires, and the passionate stakes of their struggle for power.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
The Last of the Barons — Volume 01
"The Last of the Barons — Volume 01" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel written during the early 19th century. The story is set in the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses and revolves around the character of Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, known as the "King-maker," who played a pivotal role in the power struggles of the English nobility during the reign of Edward IV. As the narrative unfolds, it promises to explore themes of loyalty, ambition, social change, and the decline of the feudal order through its richly drawn characters. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to the vibrant scene of a holiday celebration in London, where citizens gather to engage in various pastimes and competitions, notably archery. We meet characters such as Nicholas Alwyn, a humble trader, and Marmaduke Neville, a young man who proudly bears the name of his noble lineage. The opening chapters depict the contrasting lives of different social classes, highlighting the ongoing tension between the nobility and the emerging middle class. Sibyll Warner, a poor scholar's daughter, is also introduced as she faces ridicule from the revelers; her encounter with Marmaduke will prove significant as it reflects the themes of class division and personal honor. Overall, the beginning sets the stage for a rich exploration of character dilemmas and historical context in the backdrop of 15th-century England.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
The Last of the Barons — Volume 11
"The Last of the Barons — Volume 11" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton is a historical novel written during the Victorian era. This work is part of a broader narrative that delves into the complex dynamics of power, loyalty, and ambition during the Wars of the Roses in England. It intricately weaves the themes of political intrigue, personal conflict, and the historic figures of the time, notably focusing on the figure of the Earl of Warwick, often referred to as the "king-maker." In this volume, the narrative unfolds with Warwick's strategic maneuvers following the restoration of King Henry VI. The earl seeks to establish stability while managing the conflicting interests of noble factions and the common people. Central to the plot is Warwick’s relationship with Adam Warner, a scholar whose scientific ambitions are juxtaposed against the backdrop of noble politics. The story crescendos with tensions between Warwick and his former allies, including the Duke of Clarence, leading to betrayal and heart-wrenching personal losses for the earl. As alliances shift and Edward IV mounts a return to power, the intricate dance of loyalty and treachery complicates the earl's ambitions, showcasing how power can burden its bearer with profound moral dilemmas and emotional strife.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
The Last of the Barons — Volume 07
"The Last of the Barons — Volume 07" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel written during the mid-19th century. This installment delves into the tumultuous events surrounding the Wars of the Roses, particularly focusing on the power struggles and conflicts between the nobles and the crown in England. The narrative prominently features key historical figures, including King Edward IV and the Earl of Warwick, examining themes of loyalty, rebellion, and the complexities of political relationships. The opening of the book introduces us to a moment of high tension as powerful factions within England respond to a popular rebellion led by Robin of Redesdale. Lord Hastings arrives to inform the king that he is needed urgently in the council chamber, where the atmosphere is charged with preparation for war against the insurgents. Edward IV stands ready, his demeanor shifting from casual to authoritative as he faces this rebellion not only from peasants but also nobility dissatisfaction, particularly against the Woodvilles. The scene sets the stage for conflict, both on the battlefield and within the complexities of court politics, as Edward grapples with the loyalty of his lords and the weight of imminent war. The tension escalates as various characters express their misgivings about the king's actions and the overarching influence of the popular discontent, hinting at the larger themes of loyalty and betrayal that will unfold throughout the story.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
The Last of the Barons — Volume 02
"The Last of the Barons — Volume 02" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton is a historical novel set during the late 15th century, specifically during the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses in England. The book primarily revolves around the formidable character of Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, known as the "Kingmaker," who played a pivotal role in the politics of his time. The narrative explores themes of power, loyalty, and the complexities of noble relationships as England grapples with the conflicts between the rival Yorkist and Lancastrian factions. The story unfolds with the arrival of Marmaduke Nevile, the son of Sir Guy Nevile, who seeks to gain favor with his kinsman, the Earl of Warwick. As he navigates the tumultuous political landscape of the king's court, Marmaduke is introduced to both the splendor and intrigues of noble life, including his interactions with the royal family and the squabbles of various factions vying for power. The plot thickens as Warwick grapples with his deep-rooted loyalties, especially as he prepares to negotiate a crucial alliance with France while contending with the rising influence of the Woodville family, who are connected to King Edward IV. This familial and political interplay, along with Warwick's formidable presence, crafts a vivid portrayal of an era marked by both opulence and turbulence.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
The Last of the Barons — Volume 08
"The Last of the Barons — Volume 08" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel written during the mid-19th century. The narrative centers around the turbulent political climate of 15th century England, focusing on the relationships and power struggles among significant historical figures, particularly King Edward IV and the influential Earl of Warwick, along with the emerging roles of women such as Lady Anne, Warwick's daughter. The plot intricately weaves themes of love, ambition, betrayal, and the consequences of political machinations in a royal court. The opening of this volume introduces a key moment in the story's overarching conflict, highlighting the strained interactions between King Edward IV and the Earl of Warwick, as they navigate alliances and suspicions. Lady Anne is depicted as a central figure caught in the emotional turmoil of her father's ambitions and the king's desires, setting the stage for potential romantic entanglements and emerging dangers. As political tensions escalate with news of rebellion, the characters' fates become increasingly interconnected with their personal desires, especially as Edwards' growing obsession with Anne introduces a dire sense of impending conflict. The introduction of other characters, including the noble Sir Marmaduke and the passionate noblewoman Sibyll Warner, adds layers to the drama as they each grapple with their loyalties and aspirations in a treacherous political landscape.
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