Subject
Spanish-American War, 1898 -- Fiction Books
Best books
George Hartmann
Tales of Aztlan; The Romance of a Hero of Our Late Spanish-American War, Incidents of Interest from the Life of a Western Pioneer and Other Tales
"Tales of Aztlan; The Romance of a Hero of Our Late Spanish-American War, Incidents of Interest from the Life of a Western Pioneer and Other Tales" by George Hartmann is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. This volume blends various narratives centered around the experiences of a German immigrant navigating life in the American West, particularly during the Spanish-American War era and the dynamics of pioneer life. At the start of the narrative, the protagonist recalls his journey from Germany to the United States, highlighting the trials he faced, including an unexpected delay due to an attack by hostile Indians on a wagon train. The protagonist's reflections on his heritage, interactions with young women who express concern for him, and encounters with various characters paint a vivid picture of life on the frontier. Through a mix of humor and poignancy, he navigates challenging situations, signs of emerging friendships, and the vast landscape of his new home, setting the stage for further adventures in the ensuing chapters.
Upton Sinclair
A Prisoner of Morro; Or, In the Hands of the Enemy
"A Prisoner of Morro; Or, In the Hands of the Enemy" by Upton Sinclair is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Naval Cadet Clifford Faraday, who finds himself in the thick of naval warfare during the Spanish-American War as he embarks on an exhilarating yet perilous mission. As he grapples with the enemy, themes of valor, conflict, and the dangers of war unfold throughout the narrative. At the start of the tale, cadet Clif Faraday is aboard the converted tugboat Uncas, leaving Key West to join a blockading squadron off the Cuban coast. Eager for action, Clif is reminded of his past encounters with a dangerous Spanish spy named Ignacio. As the Uncas embarks on its mission, Clif’s anticipation grows—especially when a Spanish merchantman is spotted, leading to a thrilling chase and eventual capture that sets off a chain of harrowing events. The opening portion sets the stage for Clif’s dynamic struggle against the enemy, not only on the sea but also in the following chapters filled with suspense and intrigue, revealing his evolving character and the larger conflict of the war.
Douglas Wells
Under Blanco's eye; or, Hal Maynard among the Cuban insurgents
"Under Blanco's Eye; or, Hal Maynard among the Cuban Insurgents" by Douglas Wells is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Hal Maynard, a young American who finds himself stranded in Havana during a tumultuous time as tensions rise between the United States and Spain around the Spanish-American War. The protagonist's journey unfolds against the backdrop of the Cuban insurgency, illustrating themes of bravery, nationalism, and the struggles faced by people in the midst of war. At the start of the novel, we meet Hal Maynard, who, after being left behind when the last American steamer departs from Havana, is confronted by a hostile Spanish crowd. As he grapples with his situation, we learn about the perilous atmosphere in the city as well as Hal’s sense of duty to protect two thousand dollars entrusted to him by his employer. His troubles deepen with the arrival of Senor Vasquez, a nefarious merchant who directly confronts Hal for the money. The opening chapters set a tense scene filled with danger as Hal navigates threats from both the crowd and Vasquez, leading to an eventual escape attempt. The intricacies of Hal's character and the vivid portrayals of the Cuban struggle establish a gripping narrative that invites the reader to explore themes of courage and rebellion in a revolutionary era.
Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards
Rita
"Rita" by Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the character Rita Montfort, a spirited young woman caught in the tumult of the Spanish-American War, facing internal family struggles and external conflicts as she defies conventions to uphold her identity and pursue freedom for her country. At the start of the book, the stage is set with letters that convey the anxiety and conflict of the Montfort family amid the upheaval in Havana. Rita’s stepmother, Maria Concepcion, is desperate to control her rebellious daughter, Margarita, who longs for freedom and is agitated by the political climate. Margarita responds with fiery passion, vowing she will not be sent to a convent, preferring to face the dangers of the tumultuous times. The opening chapters introduce themes of defiance, familial bonds, and the struggle for national identity, illustrating Rita's resolve to break free from the constraints imposed upon her and embrace her path as an active participant in her nation’s fight for independence.
John Fox
Crittenden: A Kentucky Story of Love and War
"Crittenden: A Kentucky Story of Love and War" by John Fox Jr. is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set during the backdrop of the Spanish-American War and follows the protagonist, Clay Crittenden, a young man wrestling with his personal identity and the legacies of his family's involvement in various wars. Throughout the narrative, themes of love, duty, and the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations are intricately woven as Clay navigates his feelings for Judith Page amidst the looming threat of war. The opening of the book introduces Clay Crittenden as he returns home to Kentucky after a month spent in the backwoods. There is a palpable sense of internal conflict; Clay grapples with his past struggles and the prospect of another war, hinted at by the arrival of a call for volunteers. The serene beauty of the spring landscape contrasts with the heaviness of wartime memories and familial expectations. As he reflects on his heritage—his family's history of fighting in wars—Clay realizes he must confront not only the external battles around him but also the personal turmoil tied to his unfulfilled love for Judith Page. This sets the stage for an exploration of Clay's character as he stands at the crossroads of duty, service, and love.
Belle Willey Gue
An American
"An American" by Belle Willey Gue is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the Spanish-American War, highlighting the themes of patriotism, personal liberty, and the moral complexities of war. The protagonist, Ruth Wakefield, is the daughter of a U.S. Consul in Cuba who, after loss and heartbreak, navigates her conflicting emotions while aiding in the liberation of political prisoners, all while uncovering the nature of love and betrayal surrounding her. The opening of the novel introduces Ruth Wakefield's life in Cuba and her deepening involvement in the turmoil of the island, showcasing her loneliness after losing her parents and her burgeoning ties to Father Felix, a sympathetic priest. As the story unfolds, Ruth grapples with her secret marriage to a man entangled in political strife, set against her desire to free prisoners and support the Cuban people's quest for justice. Esther, the political prisoner’s lover, adds to the emotional complexity as Ruth's journey intertwines with hers, leading to a deep exploration of love, loyalty, and the challenges posed by personal and national conflicts.
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