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Jacobite Rebellion, 1715 -- Fiction Books
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William Harrison Ainsworth
Preston Fight; or, The Insurrection of 1715
"Preston Fight; or, The Insurrection of 1715" by William Harrison Ainsworth is a historical novel published in 1875. Set during the 1715 Jacobite rebellion, the story follows northern English landowners who rise against the Hanoverian succession and King George I in support of the exiled Jacobite claimant. The narrative focuses on the uprising in Northumberland and northern England, leading toward the fateful Battle of Preston where the rebels' destiny will be decided.
G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford) James
Henry Smeaton: A Jacobite Story of the Reign of George the First.
"Henry Smeaton: A Jacobite Story of the Reign of George the First" by G. P. R. James is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative is set against the backdrop of early 18th-century England, particularly during the tumultuous period surrounding the Jacobite uprisings. The central character, Henry Smeaton, is depicted as a young man navigating the political intrigues of the time, while he grapples with his own loyalties and intentions amidst a society rife with conflict. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to a scene near St. James's Square, where Henry Smeaton is observed in conversation with a companion, Van Noost. Their dialogue reveals Smeaton's concerns about the political situation, including recent impeachments and the fickleness of public opinion. The conversation shifts into the dynamics of power and loyalty as they discuss Lord Oxford and the support for Jacobite ideals. The narrative then broadens to depict life in London, characterized by a bustling atmosphere and hints of Smeaton's motivations—a mix of personal and political. The beginning sets a tone of intrigue and foreshadows the complex challenges Smeaton will face as he becomes entangled in the political struggles of the day.
Bessie Dill
The Silver Glen : $b A story of the rebellion of 1715
"The Silver Glen: A Story of the Rebellion of 1715" by Bessie Dill is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The tale evokes the 1715 Jacobite rising as remembered in 1755 by Barbara, Lady Fleming, drawing on authentic letters by Lady Erskine of Alva. It follows orphan Barbara Stewart as she finds a new home with Sir John and Lady Catherine Erskine, where family warmth, a clandestine silver mine, and rising political undercurrents entwine with figures like Betty Sinclair, David Pitcairn, and the anxious workers in the Silver Glen. The opening of the novel frames Barbara’s purpose: prompted by Sir Henry Erskine’s discovery of his mother’s letters, she resolves to record her memories of 1715 and the Erskine household. The narrative then shifts to Barbara’s youth, when she is summoned from school to Rosyth, crosses the wintry Forth, and reaches her grandfather, Colonel Stewart, in time to receive his last guidance—placing her in the care of Lady Catherine Erskine and Charles Erskine. After his death (and the loss of faithful Robert), Barbara goes to Alva, where Sir John’s genial charm, Lady Catherine’s steady kindness, and the lively presence of their young sons create a welcoming home. Daily life unfolds in scenes of estate improvements, talk of English and Scottish farming, and the discreet revelation of the secret silver mine in the Ochils; Barbara meets the household circle—including dour Aunt Betty, sparkling Betty Sinclair with her escort David Pitcairn, and the suave James Hamilton—and is led into the Silver Glen itself, where awe, danger, and an unwelcome flirtation hint at the tensions and intrigues to come.
A. E. W. (Alfred Edward Woodley) Mason
Lawrence Clavering
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