Subject
Surrey (England) -- Fiction Books
Best books
R. D. (Richard Doddridge) Blackmore
Dariel: A Romance of Surrey
"Dariel: A Romance of Surrey" by R. D. Blackmore is a novel published in 1897. When English farmer George Cranleigh encounters a mysterious beauty in a ruined chapel, he falls for Dariel, daughter of a Caucasian prince seeking refuge in Surrey. As her father returns home to civilize his mountain tribe, George follows his beloved into the dangerous Caucasus, where a blood feud with a vengeful queen threatens their lives and future together in this adventure across continents.
George Sturt
Memoirs of a Surrey Labourer: A Record of the Last Years of Frederick Bettesworth
"Memoirs of a Surrey Labourer: A Record of the Last Years of Frederick Bettesworth" by George Bourne is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work chronicles the latter years of Frederick Bettesworth, an elderly laborer, as he shares stories and personal experiences from his life in rural Surrey. Through his candid reflections and anecdotes, the book sheds light on the struggles and resilience of the working class during that period, focusing on themes of hardship, community, and the passage of time. The opening of this memoir introduces Bettesworth, who works in the author's garden, where his engaging conversations provide insight into both his character and the life of a laborer. As he discusses past winters and the challenges faced by his family and neighbors, his kindness and generosity emerge—especially when he recounts how he shared food with those in need. The dialogue is rich with the vernacular of the time, capturing not just Bettesworth's nostalgia but also the rhythm of daily life in the countryside. Through this initial glimpse, the reader can appreciate Bettesworth's deep connections to nature, his surroundings, and the community around him, setting a tone of humility and authenticity for the memoir.
S. (Sabine) Baring-Gould
The Broom-Squire
"The Broom-Squire" by S. Baring-Gould is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a sailor who, after losing his wife, finds himself burdened with their infant daughter while navigating the rough terrain of life and his own responsibilities. The narrative begins with the sailor's challenging journey through a tavern and sets the stage for explorations of family, connection, and community. At the start of the book, a distressed sailor enters the tavern "Ship" in Thursley, carrying his crying baby girl after the death of his wife. The landlady, surprised and concerned by the sailor’s clumsy handling of the child, engages in witty banter while attempting to assist him. As the sailor expresses exhaustion from the journey, he discusses his plans to drop off the baby with her aunt, highlighting themes of parental struggle and loss. Meanwhile, a group of dubious characters surrounds him, hinting at the potential dangers that lie ahead on his journey. The stage is set for a tale rich with character interactions, the complexities of fatherhood, and a journey fraught with uncertainty.
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