Subject
Spain -- History -- 19th century -- Fiction Books
Best books
Arthur W. Marchmont
Sarita, the Carlist
"Sarita, the Carlist" by Arthur W. Marchmont is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Ferdinand Carbonnell, who finds himself embroiled in the complicated political intrigues of Spain as he navigates familial relationships and the dangerous world of the Carlists. The narrative suggests a rich blend of romance, political drama, and personal conflict as Ferdinand encounters his cousin Sarita Castelar and must grapple with unexpected familial obligations and a tumultuous past. The opening of the novel introduces Ferdinand Carbonnell, who faces the repercussions of a woman’s preference as his family plots for a match between him and a wealthy widow. Suddenly thrust into a diplomatic role, he discovers a deeper familial connection to the Quesadas in Madrid and is drawn into a web of political secrecy and familial history, including the troubling legacy of his uncle. Shortly after his arrival, he is mistaken for a Carlist leader and nearly suffers serious consequences due to a case of mistaken identity. It is Sarita Castelar, the stunning cousin he meets, who rescues him from a dire situation, hinting at their shared family ties and the looming political machinations that will entwine their fates. The tension between personal aspiration and political loyalty sets the stage for this engaging tale of love, loyalty, and upheaval.
Benito Pérez Galdós
Un faccioso más y algunos frailes menos
"Un faccioso más y algunos frailes menos" by Benito Pérez Galdós is a historical novel written and published in autumn 1879. The tenth and final installment of the Second Series of the National Episodes, it chronicles the last year of King Ferdinand VII's reign, the outbreak of the Carlist War, and the beginning of María Cristina's regency. Historical drama intertwines with the fates of liberal Salvador Monsalud, Carlist Carlos Navarro, and other recurring characters as Spain fractures into civil war.
Henry Seton Merriman
The Velvet Glove
"The Velvet Glove" by Henry Seton Merriman is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story likely unfolds against a backdrop of tension and intrigue in Spain, focusing on themes of duty, honor, and the impact of both personal and political crises on individuals and their relationships. Central to the narrative is Francisco de Mogente, a man returning to Saragossa after years of exile, whose fate intertwines with that of his daughter, Juanita. The beginning of the novel introduces Francisco de Mogente as he arrives secretly in the city of Saragossa under the cover of night. As he navigates the streets, he reflects on the passage of time and the changes that have occurred during his absence. However, his return is short-lived, as he soon becomes the target of an assassination attempt, leaving him mortally wounded in the streets. A friar comes to his aid, and the tension builds as Mogente prepares to make a will before succumbing to his injuries. Concurrently, we meet Evasio Mon, a man of calm demeanor and grave significance, who witnesses these events unfold, hinting that their interconnected paths may lead to larger implications for both Mogente's family and the society they inhabit.
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