Subject
Reincarnation -- Fiction Books
Best books
Bāṇa
The Kādambarī of Bāṇa
"The Kādambarī of Bāṇa by Bāṇa and Bhūṣaṇabhaṭṭa" is a Sanskrit novel composed in the first half of the 7th century CE. This intricate romantic tale follows the hero Chandrapeeda and heroine Kadambari through multiple incarnations as humans, demigods, and animals. The story unfolds through nested narratives, largely told by a parrot recounting tales from a sage. With competing subplots and characters appearing in various forms, the novel weaves an elaborate path toward the eventual union of its central lovers.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
She
"She" by H. Rider Haggard is a Gothic novel published in 1887. The story follows Cambridge professor Horace Holly and his ward Leo Vincey on a perilous journey into the African interior, where they seek a lost kingdom. There they encounter the Amahagger people and their mysterious ruler—a powerful white sorceress named Ayesha, known as "She-who-must-be-obeyed." Possessing immortality and supernatural powers, Ayesha has waited over two thousand years for her lost lover's return. A groundbreaking work that established conventions of the lost world genre.
Jack London
The Jacket (The Star-Rover)
"The Jacket (The Star-Rover)" by Jack London is a novel published in 1915. The story follows Darrell Standing, a university professor imprisoned at San Quentin, who endures torture through a compression device called "the jacket." To survive, he enters trance states where he walks among the stars and experiences vivid past lives across different ages and cultures. London based the novel on interviews with a former convict who actually endured this torture device. The work blends science fiction with mysticism and reincarnation themes.
Marie Corelli
Ardath: The Story of a Dead Self
"Ardath: The Story of a Dead Self" by Marie Corelli is a novel written during the late 19th century. The book explores themes such as spirituality, existentialism, and the search for truth through the journey of its main character, Theos Alwyn, an emotionally troubled English author seeking solace from the world's cynicism and his own internal despair. The narrative hints at a mystical encounter with a monk named Heliobas, who possesses powers that challenge Alwyn's perceptions of reality and existence. The opening of the novel vividly sets the scene in the Caucasus mountains amid a raging storm, capturing the reader's attention through the stark contrast between the chaotic external world and the peaceful atmosphere of a monastery where monks are engaged in contemplative worship. As Alwyn observes the monks, he grapples with his own skepticism about faith and the existence of God, leading to introspective reflections on life, truth, and the soul. The narrative unfolds as Alwyn expresses a desperate desire for relief from his suffering, ultimately leading to his request for a powerful transformation that will allow him to escape his discontent. This complex interplay between the physical and spiritual realms creates a rich tapestry of thought-provoking ideas that will appeal to those interested in philosophical and metaphysical explorations.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
The Wanderer's Necklace
"The Wanderer's Necklace" by H. Rider Haggard is a historical novel set in the early 20th century that intertwines adventure with themes of love and fate. The narrative begins with a dedication and a note by the editor, introducing a story structured around the life of a character named Olaf, who reflects on pivotal moments from his past, specifically focusing on his relationships and the conflicts that arise in his world. As Olaf recounts his childhood and the complexities of his betrothal to Iduna, he becomes embroiled in a web of emotions and societal expectations that highlight the essence of love as well as the anguish of betrayal. The opening of the narrative vividly describes Olaf's formative experiences, including childhood memories of a house near water and his first encounter with his betrothed, Iduna, who captures his heart. As the tale unfolds, the tension between familial duty, personal desire, and the intrigue surrounding their budding love story is palpable. There are references to Olaf's relationships with his brother Ragnar and his foster-brother Steinar, along with foreboding hints from characters like Freydisa, which foreshadow future trials. The chapter concludes with Olaf embarking on a daring adventure that reveals both his courage and the fate that awaits him, setting the stage for the intertwining of past dreams and present realities that will define the course of his life.
Edward S. (Edward Sims) Van Zile
Perkins, the Fakeer: A Travesty on Reincarnation His wonderful workings in the cases of "When Reginald was Caroline", "How Chopin came to Remsen", and "Clarissa's troublesome baby"
"Perkins, the Fakeer: A Travesty on Reincarnation" by Edward S. Van Zile is a humorous fiction work written in the early 20th century. The story follows a couple, Reginald and Caroline, who experience a bizarre case of body-switching, leading them to grapple with the absurdities of their new identities. The plot hints at themes of identity, marriage dynamics, and the comical challenges that ensue from their unusual predicament. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Reginald and Caroline, who awaken one morning to find that their consciousnesses have been swapped; Reginald is now inhabiting Caroline's body, while Caroline is in his. Together, they face the immediate complications of their situation, including how to navigate their daily lives and responsibilities while residing in each other's physical forms. The opening chapters detail their frantic attempts to adjust, featuring amusing encounters with a maid and a butler, while they try to conceal their extraordinary condition to avoid suspicion from those around them. The story sets a whimsical tone as it explores the chaos and comedy that arises from their enforced body switch.
Alice M. (Alice Mangold) Diehl
Dr. Paull's Theory: A Romance
"Dr. Paull's Theory: A Romance" by Alice M. Diehl is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Hugh Paull, a house-surgeon at a city hospital, who encounters a life-altering incident when he treats Sir Roderick Pym, an important figure who has suffered a serious accident. As the narrative unfolds, themes of medical ethics, human connection, and personal struggle are explored through Hugh's experiences and the relationships he forms with those around him, particularly with Sir Roderick and his daughter Lilia. At the start of the novel, Hugh Paull is deep in his work at the hospital when he receives news of a new patient, Sir Roderick Pym, who has sustained a concussion from a carriage accident. As Hugh treats Sir Roderick, he becomes intrigued by the old man's complex character, which is further developed through their conversations. Hugh also finds himself contemplating the delicate dynamics of Sir Roderick's family, especially when he meets Lilia, Sir Roderick's daughter, who has grown up in a secluded environment. The opening chapters set a foundation for themes of fate, personal ambition, and the impact of one’s past, hinting at the deeper emotional and psychological connections that will unfold as the story progresses.
Marie Corelli
Ziska: The Problem of a Wicked Soul
"Ziska: The Problem of a Wicked Soul" by Marie Corelli is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story unfolds against the enchanting and enigmatic backdrop of Cairo, focusing on various British expatriates navigating the social scene amidst the breathtaking but mysterious historical wonders of ancient Egypt. Central to the narrative is the beguiling Princess Ziska, whose allure draws attention and sparks jealousy, particularly among the men who encounter her. At the start of the novel, an atmosphere rich with mystery and foreboding is established as the Great Sphinx looms over the desolate landscape of the desert. As the narrative shifts to the bustling social life in Cairo, we are introduced to characters like Sir Chetwynd Lyle, who aims to marry off his daughters amidst the distractions of the season, and the enigmatic painter Armand Gervase, who becomes captivated by Ziska's beauty. Key dialogues and interactions suggest a theme of obsession as Gervase and another man, Denzil Murray, grapple with their growing feelings for Ziska, who embodies both charm and danger. This intricate interplay sets the stage for a tale of love, rivalry, and the spectral mysteries of the past that haunt the living, inviting readers into a world where desire may lead to ruin.
Gaston Leroux
The Man with the Black Feather
"The Man with the Black Feather" by Gaston Leroux is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with M. Theophrastus Longuet, a timid and unremarkable rubber stamp manufacturer, who receives a mysterious sandalwood box from the executor of a deceased friend. Inside, he discovers a bundle of manuscripts that set the stage for an extraordinary tale, where he begins to grapple with his own identity and a past life that intertwines with the rich history of Paris. At the start of the novel, Theophrastus and his wife, Marceline, along with their friend Adolphe, visit the Conciergerie, a famous historical prison. It is here that Theophrastus experiences an inexplicable connection to the past, uttering phrases that seem foreign yet familiar to him. Following a strange incident involving a hidden document found in the prison's cellars, Theophrastus becomes entwined with the life of a man from the 18th century, grappling with the reality of reincarnation and the mystery of buried treasures. This sets off a thrilling exploration of his previous identity and the fascinating secrets of the past that link to his present.
Edgar Rice Burroughs
The eternal savage
"The Eternal Savage" by Edgar Rice Burroughs is a fantasy-adventure novel first published serially in 1914-1915. A cliff-dwelling warrior from 100,000 years ago is magically transported to the present, where he encounters Victoria Custer—the reincarnation of his lost love. Together, they are swept back to the Stone Age in an African setting that weaves together characters from Burroughs's other works, including Tarzan and the protagonist of "The Mad King."
Margaret Horton Potter
The flame-gatherers
"The Flame-Gatherers" by Margaret Horton Potter is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds in and around the year 1205, in the ancient Indian principality of Mandu, providing a vivid exploration of its culture, social hierarchies, and the intricacies of human emotion. The story primarily revolves around Fidá, a captive prince, whose grace and bearing create a captivating juxtaposition against the backdrop of his status as a slave in the household of the Rajah, Rai-Khizar-Pál. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to the serene yet tumultuous world of Mandu as sunlight casts a warm glow on the landscape. The narrative takes a swift turn as the Rajah returns from a victorious campaign, followed by the spectacle of surrendering captives, including Fidá, the son of the enemy's leader. The complexity of Fidá's character is revealed through his interactions with his captors and the striking Ranee Ahalya, who seeks her own freedom from the constraints of palace life. As intrigue unfolds, the tragedy of unrequited love, the weight of duty, and the unbreakable bonds of fate come to the forefront, setting the stage for a rich tapestry of emotions and societal critique that will resonate throughout the story.
Reginald Farrer
The Sundered Streams: The History of a Memory That Had No Full Stops
"The Sundered Streams: The History of a Memory That Had No Full Stops" by Reginald Farrer is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins to explore the intricacies of social hierarchy in a quaint English town, specifically focusing on the Dadd family, who find themselves at a pivotal moment of transition due to newfound wealth. Through the central character, Kingston Darnley, the narrative delves into themes of identity, ambition, and the complexities of societal norms. The opening portion introduces readers to Darnley-on-Downe, a peaceful and seemingly insular village, where the Dadds reign as the de facto aristocracy. With the arrival of a coal-field discovery on their ancestral land, the family unexpectedly steps into wealth, thereby challenging long-standing social structures and relationships. Kingston Darnley, the family's heir, grapples with his place in a world that suddenly feels larger and more complex than it once did, especially as he navigates the expectations of his lineage while contending with his own desires for authenticity and connection. As tensions arise within the family dynamic, particularly regarding Kingston's future and his choice of a wife, the stage is set for exploration of themes such as societal acceptance, personal ambition, and the struggles between dated values and modern aspirations.
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