Subject
Land tenure -- Fiction Books
Best books
María Amparo Ruiz de Burton
The Squatter and the Don A Novel Descriptive of Contemporary Occurrences in California
"The Squatter and the Don" by María Amparo Ruiz de Burton is a novel descriptive of contemporary occurrences in California written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the conflicting lives of William Darrell, a settler or "squatter," and Don Mariano Alamar, a landowner in the wake of the changing laws and social dynamics following the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. It delves into themes of land ownership, cultural clashes, and the personal struggles of these characters as they navigate a transformed society. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the Darrell family, particularly William and his wife, Mary, who are preparing for William’s journey to Southern California to claim land. Their conversation reveals the tension surrounding the squatter title, as Mary urges caution and emphasizes the importance of not encroaching upon legally claimed land, hinting at their past misfortunes. The narrative also introduces Don Mariano, who reflects on the squatter issue and his own property’s legal challenges, setting the stage for the ensuing conflict between settlers and landowners. This opening suggests a rich exploration of the impact of legislation on personal lives and land claims, framed in the complexities of love, ambition, and cultural heritage.
Anthony Trollope
The Kellys and the O'Kellys
"The Kellys and the O’Kellys" by Anthony Trollope is a novel set in mid-19th century Ireland. The narrative explores the complex social dynamics between landlords and tenants, particularly through the experiences of the Kelly family and their connections to the O’Kellys. The story delves into themes of inheritance, love, and the ongoing societal struggles in Ireland during that period. The opening of the story introduces a backdrop of political tension surrounding the trial of prominent figures in the Repeal Movement, setting the stage for the characters' personal and social conflicts. Two brothers, Martin and John Kelly, are waiting to attend the trial, illustrating their engagement with the political climate. Martin is portrayed as a young farmer with ambitions, including an intent to elope with an heiress, while the family dynamics with their mother and their struggling household add depth to their characterizations. Martin’s determination to secure both love and financial stability is evident as he navigates the complexities of family relationships and societal expectations. As the brothers discuss their aspirations and the influence of their political surroundings, it becomes clear that their individual stories are entwined with the larger narrative of Ireland’s struggle for identity and equity.
E. Oe. (Edith Oenone) Somerville
The Real Charlotte
"The Real Charlotte" by E. Oe. Somerville and Martin Ross is a novel written between 1888 and 1890 and published in 1894. Set in rural County Galway, the story centers on the scheming Charlotte Mullen, her beautiful young cousin Francie Fitzpatrick, and the married Roderick Lambert. Their intertwined lives unfold across three households in a complex web of ambition, desire, and social maneuvering. Critics have called it a masterpiece with Balzacian power, featuring a title character so formidable she becomes an unforgettable force of nature.
Anthony Trollope
The Landleaguers
"The Landleaguers" by Anthony Trollope is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of Ireland during a time of social turmoil and conflict, the story centers on the Jones family, particularly focusing on Philip Jones, a newly influential landlord, and his children as they navigate personal and political upheaval. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, the struggle for power, and the impact of social changes on familial relationships. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Mr. Philip Jones, who has recently acquired the Morony estate in County Galway amidst an era marked by tension and agitation among the Irish tenant farmers. As his family begins to adjust to their new life, serious troubles arise, particularly connected to their youngest son, Florian, who is caught in a web of religious and political conflicts. The flooding of the family’s meadows, allegedly instigated by local dissenters, heightens the stakes as Mr. Jones aims to uncover the truth behind the incident, while Florian grapples with his oath of secrecy and fear of repercussions. The opening chapters establish the characters' complexities and hint at the broader societal issues that will play a pivotal role throughout the narrative.
Recently surfaced classics