Books matching: dramatic historical fiction
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- #1
Save:Set in 1870s London, "The Crimson Petal and the White" follows the lives of various characters navigating the stark realities of both poverty and wealth during the Victorian era. The story revolves around Sugar, a prostitute striving to improve her circumstances, and William, a complex character whose actions disappoint and intrigue readers. Michel Faber's writing style immerses readers in the sights and sounds of London, offering a detailed portrayal of the time period.
Watch your step. Keep your wits about you; you will need them. This city I am bringing you to is vast and intricate, and you have not been here before. You may imagine, from other stories you’ve read,... - #2
Save:"Lammas Night" by Katherine Kurtz is a historical novel set during World War II, where British occultists come together to defend Britain against Hitler's planned invasion using magical means. The plot unfolds with a mix of historical events and fictional characters, intertwined with elements of the Old Religion of the British Isles. The writing style is praised for its detailed descriptions of psychic workings, character development, and the respectful portrayal of various faiths represented in the story.
- #3
Save:'The Knight and the Rose' by Isolde Martyn is a historical romance novel set in Medieval times. The book follows the story of Lady Johanna FitzHenry, a young woman trapped in a cruel marriage to a brutal man. Johanna, along with her mother, devises a plan to escape her abusive husband by convincing a man to swear that he had married her prior to her forced marriage. The plot unfolds with a mix of personal drama, historical events like the deposing of Edward II and the battle of Bannockburn, and a court proceeding to annul Johanna's marriage. The writing style captures the historical period well, with detailed descriptions and intertwining of romance and historical events.
- #4
Save:The 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Vol. 1' by Luo Guanzhong is a classic Chinese novel that delves into the historical period of the Three Kingdoms. Set in the Warring States period, the book narrates the epic tale of three warring states after the fall of the Han Empire, featuring battles, political intrigue, and a myriad of characters. The writing style is described as a mix of history, mythology, and fiction, creating a dramatic and suspenseful narrative that captivates readers with its rich storytelling.
The book is praised for its epic scope, spanning generations and offering a loose historical fiction account of a significant era in Chinese history. Despite being written centuries ago, the 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms' remains a page-turner with its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and themes of warfare, politics, and power struggles. Readers are drawn to the novel's immersive storytelling that blends real historical events with fantastical elements, making it a timeless classic in Chinese literature.
The Zhou dynasty collapsed when seven kingdoms tore apart the empire by fighting among themselves, until eventually the Qin kingdom conquered all of the other kingdoms. But the Qin did not last long, ... - #5
Save:Moby Dick by Herman Melville is a classic novel that delves into the world of whaling in the 19th century, focusing on the vengeful hunt of a white sperm whale named Moby Dick by Captain Ahab. The story is narrated through the eyes of Ishmael, a young man who joins the crew of the ship Pequod along with his friend Queequeg, a former cannibal. The novel offers detailed insights into the whaling industry, life in Nantucket, and the psychological complexities of the characters, particularly Captain Ahab.
The writing style of Moby Dick is described as epic, humorous, sarcastic, and rich in variety. Herman Melville's prose is praised for its depth and complexity, transporting readers to the world of whaling with vivid descriptions of the sea, ships, whales, and the characters' inner turmoil. The novel weaves together elements of history, mythology, poetry, and humor, creating a literary masterpiece that explores themes of revenge, obsession, and the human condition.
Call me Ishmael. Some years ago—never mind how long precisely—having little or no money in my purse, and nothing particular to interest me on shore, I thought I would sail about a little and see the w... - #6
Save:'The Eye in the Door' is the second installment in Pat Barker's Regeneration trilogy, set in 1918 during World War I. The story follows the fictional character Billy Prior, a soldier recovering from war trauma and working as an intelligence agent. The plot delves into themes of homosexuality, imprisonment, resistance to the war effort, and the splitting of personality, all against the backdrop of a society gripped by paranoia and witch hunts targeting specific groups. The book also explores the psychological effects of war on soldiers, with appearances from real-life figures like Dr. Rivers and Siegfried Sassoon.
The narrative style of 'The Eye in the Door' is described as compelling, with Barker's use of language praised for its measured and lyrical quality. The book intricately weaves historical events and characters into a fictional narrative, offering insights into the psychological consequences of war trauma. The character development, particularly that of Billy Prior, is highlighted as a strong aspect of the book, along with the exploration of themes related to war, violence, and identity.
In formal beds beside the Serpentine, early tulips stood in tight-lipped rows. Billy Prior spent several moments setting up an enfilade, then, releasing his companion’s arm, seized an imaginary machin...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Regeneration ) - #7
Save:In "Love and Other Consolation Prizes" by Jamie Ford, readers are taken on a journey through time, following the life of Ernest Young, a half-Chinese orphan who is raffled off as a prize at the 1909 Alaska Yukon Pacific Exposition in Seattle. The story alternates between Ernest's experiences as a young boy in 1909 and his reflections on his past in 1962, as he shares his life story with his daughter. Through Ernest's narrative, the book explores themes of survival, love, family, and the unexpected turns life can take, all set against the backdrop of historical events like the World's Fairs and the red light district in Seattle.
Ernest Young stood outside the gates on opening day of the new world’s fair, loitering in the shadow of the future. From his lonely vantage point in the VIP parking lot, he could see hundreds of happy... - #8
Save:Affinity by Sarah Waters is a dark and atmospheric novel set in Victorian London, focusing on the unlikely relationship between Margaret Prior, a spinster recovering from a nervous breakdown, and Selina Dawes, a convicted medium in Millbank prison. The story unfolds through diary entries, revealing the complex dynamics between the characters and the suspenseful plot that keeps readers engaged until the surprising ending. Waters' writing style captures the mood of the era and delves into themes of spiritualism, forbidden relationships, and societal constraints, creating a gripping and authentic narrative that explores themes of love, obsession, and deception.
Pa used to say that any piece of history might be made into a tale: it was only a question of deciding where the tale began, and where it ended. That, he said, was all his skill. And perhaps, after al... - #9
Save:'An Assembly Such as This' by Pamela Aidan is a retelling of Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' from Mr. Darcy's perspective. The book delves into Darcy's thoughts, emotions, and motivations as he navigates his interactions with Elizabeth Bennet and his friend Bingley. The writing style is praised for maintaining the tone and language of Austen's original work, providing insights into Darcy's character and adding depth to the well-known story. Readers appreciate the portrayal of Darcy's internal struggles and the exploration of his evolving feelings towards Elizabeth.
The book follows Darcy's journey from his initial encounters with Elizabeth to his realization of being in love and subsequent proposal of marriage. The plot closely follows the events of 'Pride and Prejudice,' offering additional details and perspectives that enhance the reader's understanding of the characters and their relationships. Despite some critiques of pacing and characterizations, the book is commended for its engaging narrative and the fresh insights it provides into the beloved story.
Fitzwilliam George Alexander Darcy rose from his seat in the Bingley carriage and reluctantly descended to earth before the assembly hall above the only inn to which the small market town of Meryton c... - #10
Save:In "The French Lieutenant's Woman," John Fowles masterfully plunges readers into 19th century Victorian England, exploring social customs, sexual taboos, and moral attitudes through the characters of Charles Smithson and Sarah Woodruff. The novel is a blend of historical dramatic fiction set in the late 19th century in England, written with touches of 20th-century metafiction, where the author cleverly critiques his Victorian protagonists from a modern perspective. Fowles presents a complex narrative with multiple possible endings, challenging the reader's perception of free will, evolution, and societal norms.
The story follows Charles Smithson, a Victorian gentleman engaged to Ernestina, who becomes fascinated with Sarah Woodruff, a mysterious woman rumored to be the spurned ex-mistress of a French naval officer. Through Fowles' unique narrative style, which combines elements of the Victorian era with 20th-century commentary, readers are taken on a journey of love, betrayal, societal expectations, and personal identity, all set against the backdrop of a changing world and conflicting values.
AN EASTERLY IS the most disagreeable wind in Lyme Bay – Lyme Bay being that largest bite from the underside of England’s outstretched south-western leg – and a person of curiosity could at once have d...
