Subject
India -- History -- Sepoy Rebellion, 1857-1858 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Talbot Mundy
King--of the Khyber Rifles: A Romance of Adventure
"King--of the Khyber Rifles: A Romance of Adventure" by Talbot Mundy is a novel first published in 1916. British secret agent Captain Athelstan King navigates dangerous tribal territories on India's northwest frontier at the outbreak of World War I. Accompanied by the enigmatic Princess Yasmini and facing the Turkish mullah Muhammed Anim, King must confront a brewing conspiracy to incite jihad against the British Empire. Influenced by Mundy's own experiences in India and his theosophical interests, this adventure tale explores loyalty, mysticism, and intrigue along the Khyber Pass.
Louis Tracy
The Red Year: A Story of the Indian Mutiny
"The Red Year: A Story of the Indian Mutiny" by Louis Tracy is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the narrative explores the tensions and conflicts that arise between British colonial forces and Indian sepoys. The story introduces key characters such as Frank Malcolm, a British officer, and Winifred Mayne, the niece of a Commissioner, whose fates become intertwined amidst the chaos of the uprising. At the start of the novel, the discontent brewing among the sepoys is sparked by an altercation between a Brahmin sepoy and a Lascar over caste issues related to the British military's use of cartridges. As unrest escalates, Frank Malcolm is introduced, focused on his military duties while developing feelings for Winifred Mayne. The early chapters set the stage for impending violence, with the sepoy rebellion igniting as Malcolm rides through a Meerut ignited by chaos. The atmosphere is charged with drama and a sense of urgency, as the seeds of the Mutiny unfold alongside personal struggles and tensions, foreshadowing the violent conflicts to come.
Flora Annie Webster Steel
On the Face of the Waters: A Tale of the Mutiny
"On the Face of the Waters: A Tale of the Mutiny" by Flora Annie Steel is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds during the Indian Mutiny of 1857, exploring both the human and political dynamics of the time. The story introduces several characters, including English expatriates in India, who navigate the complex realities and rising tensions surrounding the rebellion against British rule. The opening of the novel sets the scene with an auction taking place along the river Goomtee, highlighting the economic and social upheaval following the annexation of Oude. The juxtaposition of a tiger's growl amid the bustling crowd reflects the impending chaos, while characters like Major Erlton and Mrs. Gissing showcase the nuances of colonial life and their personal conflicts. The significance of the colonizers' interactions, their views towards the native populace, and the dark undercurrents of exploitation and resistance are all hinted at, preparing the reader for the deeper explorations of loyalty, morality, and identity that will unfold throughout the story.
Jules Verne
Het Stoomhuis: De IJzeren Reus (1/2)
"Het Stoomhuis: De IJzeren Reus (1/2)" by Jules Verne is a novel published in 1880. A group of British colonists travels through India in a remarkable wheeled house pulled by a steam-powered mechanical elephant. Set after the Indian Rebellion of 1857, their journey takes them through temples, forests, and dangerous territories. Colonel Munro seeks revenge against the vanished rebel leader Nana Sahib, who still lurks in hiding, plotting his next move. Adventure and historical tensions collide in this tale of exploration and retribution.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
Rujub, the Juggler
"Rujub, the Juggler" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel aimed at young adults and older readers, written during the late 19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the Sepoy Mutiny in India between 1857 and 1859, focusing on the conflict between British colonial forces and Indian soldiers. The central character, Ralph Bathurst, is portrayed as a soldier who grapples with his fears and insecurities in the face of war, while Rujub, the titular juggler, serves as a mysterious and skilled ally in his journey. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to a festive scene at the Rajah's palace amid colorful lanterns and music, symbolizing a superficial peace before the coming turmoil. The Rajah entertains British officers, masking his underlying schemes against them while plotting with his allies to incite the Sepoy rebellion. Ralph Bathurst, on the other hand, is depicted as a natural coward who strives to prove his bravery. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for the novel’s exploration of personal courage and friendship through the lens of historical conflict, establishing both Bathurst's struggles with his inner demons and Rujub's role as a pivotal figure, connecting traditions of Indian mystique with the unfolding drama of war.
J. E. (Joyce Emmerson) Muddock
The Great White Hand; Or, the Tiger of Cawnpore: A story of the Indian Mutiny
"The Great White Hand; Or, the Tiger of Cawnpore: A story of the Indian Mutiny" by J. E. Muddock is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The book centers around the events of the Indian Mutiny, highlighting the tensions between British colonists and native soldiers in India. Major characters include Walter Gordon, a young Englishman, and Flora Meredith, his betrothed, who find themselves caught up in the chaos of rebellion and betrayal." "The opening of the novel sets a dark and foreboding atmosphere as it depicts the early morning of May 9, 1857, in Meerut, just before the eruption of violence known as the Indian Mutiny. The narrative describes the stir and tension among the soldiers as they deal with mutinous native troops. Flora expresses her fears about the rising discontent of the natives, which Walter dismisses, reflecting the deepening ignorance of the English towards the brewing storm. As the characters learn more about the dangerous atmosphere around them, the tension escalates with Jewan Bukht, a native clerk, revealing the imminent threat of revolt. This portion effectively establishes the characters’ relationships and foreshadows the unfolding tragedy of the mutiny, hinting at the personal and collective conflicts that lie ahead."
Michael White
Lachmi Bai, Rani of Jhansi: The Jeanne D'Arc of India
"Lachmi Bai, Rani of Jhansi: The Jeanne D'Arc of India" by Michael White is a historical account written in the early 20th century. It explores the life and resistance of Lachmi Bai, the Rani (or Queen) of Jhansi, against British colonial rule in India during the tumultuous period of the Indian Mutiny of 1857. The book sheds light on her character, struggles, and the broader context of the rebellion, positioning her as a national heroine in the fight against oppression. The opening of the narrative sets a dramatic stage, depicting the city of Jhansi under a heavy summer sun, where tensions are palpably increasing as the people sense an impending upheaval. Lachmi Bai, depicted as a determined and capable leader, engages in fervent discussions with Ahmad Khan, a Mohammedan noble, about their plans to rise against British rule. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that she is poised to lead her people in rebellion, harboring strong sentiments about her lost throne and the injustices faced by her people. The chapter ends with a sense of anticipation, as Lachmi Bai prepares for the pivotal moment that will shape her destiny and that of Jhansi.
Herbert Strang
Barclay of the Guides
"Barclay of the Guides" by Herbert Strang is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the Indian Mutiny, especially focusing on events surrounding the siege of Delhi. The narrative centers on Ahmed, a young Pathan boy who navigates conflicts between rival tribes and British forces, grappling with his identity and loyalties as he is adopted by Rahmut Khan, the chief of Shagpur. The opening of the novel introduces Ahmed as he ventures through the rugged terrain above his village. With a keen sense for potential danger, he spots an approaching group of horsemen and races back to warn his village of an impending attack. Ahmed’s intelligence and quick thinking reveal his courage and resourcefulness, as he attempts to protect his home despite its vulnerable state. This sets the tone for a thrilling adventure that blends personal growth with broader historical tensions, laying the groundwork for Ahmed's complex journey as he confronts threats from both inside and outside his community.
Jules Verne
La maison à vapeur: Voyage à travers l'Inde septentrionale
"La maison à vapeur: Voyage à travers l'Inde septentrionale" by Jules Verne is a novel published in 1880. The story follows British colonists traveling through India in a wheeled house pulled by a steam-powered mechanical elephant. Set after the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the journey becomes entangled with the mysterious fate of rebel leader Nana Sahib, who disappeared following the rebellion's defeat. As the travelers explore nineteenth-century India, personal vengeance and historical forces collide in unexpected ways.
Jules Verne
Het Stoomhuis: De Waanzinnige der Nerbudda (2/2)
"Het Stoomhuis: De Waanzinnige der Nerbudda (2/2)" by Jules Verne is a novel published in 1880. British colonists travel across India in a mechanical steam-powered elephant pulling wheeled carriages. Set after the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the journey follows Colonel Munro's quest for vengeance against rebel leader Nana Sahib, whose fate remained unknown. The expedition encounters political intrigue, dangerous wildlife, mysterious figures, and lingering tensions between Indians and British in colonial India.
George Manville Fenn
Begumbagh: A Tale of the Indian Mutiny
"Begumbagh: A Tale of the Indian Mutiny" by George Manville Fenn is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book unfolds during the turbulent period of the Indian Mutiny, focusing primarily on the experiences of a small British garrison in India. Central to the narrative is Isaac Smith, a soldier recounting his observations and experiences as tensions rise both within the regiment and among the local populace, culminating in the chaotic events of the mutiny. The opening of the story introduces Isaac Smith, who begins his account with a reflection on his role as a commissionaire in London and transitions into his military service during the Indian Mutiny. As he details the march of his regiment and introduces characters like Captain Dyer, Lieutenant Leigh, and the charming Miss Ross, we also see a picture of military life in colonial India, rife with camaraderie and underlying tensions. The story sets the stage for conflict, hinting at interpersonal rivalries and the build-up of unrest among the local population, which foreshadows the impending mutiny that threatens their safety. Smith's perspective, colored by his observations of the people around him, draws readers into this historical drama, combining elements of adventure and personal struggle amidst a backdrop of colonial strife.
E. W. (Edmund William) Forrest
Vellenaux A Novel
"Vellenaux" by E.W. Forrest is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story intertwines elements of historical fiction, set against the backdrop of significant events from the Sheik Wars and the Sepoy Mutiny. The narrative centers around Sir Jasper Coleman, a retired military officer living at his ancestral estate, Vellenaux, and the dynamics between him, his lovely adopted niece Edith, and the young protégé Arthur Carlton, who has recently returned from college. The opening portion introduces us to the grand estate of Vellenaux and its inhabitants, particularly focusing on Sir Jasper, who is a benevolent but aging bachelor. As he contemplates his life, his warmth is highlighted through his relationship with his niece, who eagerly seeks his stories from London. The arrival of Mrs. Fraudhurst, the widow who has ingratiated herself into Sir Jasper’s household, adds an intriguing element of tension, as she appears to be scheming to secure both her position and potentially the estate itself. As we delve into their lives, hints of romantic interests begin to surface, particularly between Arthur and Edith, setting the stage for potential conflicts and developments as the story progresses.
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