Meet New Books
Meet New Books

Books matching: 17th and 18th centuries

100 result(s)

Readers also searched for:

Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    Evelina by Frances Burney, Fanny Burney
    Save:

    Evelina is a novel set in the 18th century that follows the story of the titular character, a naive and pure young woman who navigates the brash and dangerous society world after a sheltered childhood. The plot unfolds through correspondence between characters, moving rapidly between settings, plot twists, and satirical commentary on the social norms of the time. The book explores the perils of Evelina's life as she is thrown into London society, delving into class structures and societal expectations. The writing style is described as being melodramatic, satirical, and comical, with a focus on the hypocrisies and backstabbing nature of the society world.

    Your ladyship did but too well foresee the perplexity and uneasiness of which Madame Duval’s letter has been productive. However, I ought rather to be thankful that I have so many years remained unmol...

  2. #2

    Oroonoko by Aphra Behn
    Save:

    'Oroonoko' by Aphra Behn is a 17th-century novella that tells the tragic story of an African prince named Oroonoko and his beloved Imoinda who are sold into slavery and reunited on a plantation in Surinam. The narrative explores themes of love, betrayal, enslavement, and rebellion through the lens of a compelling and gripping storytelling style. The book is written in a 17th-century prose style that may be challenging for modern readers, but it offers a unique perspective on the dehumanizing atrocities of slavery and the complexities of race relations during that time period.

    The book is structured in an unusual narrative format, with about half of the story told from the title character's point of view and the rest from the author's perspective. 'Oroonoko' is considered one of the earliest novels and is hailed for its historical significance in portraying the sensitive treatment of its black characters, particularly Oroonoko, who is depicted as noble, loving, honest, and brave in contrast to the duplicitous and cruel white characters. Despite its age, the story remains relevant and thought-provoking, shedding light on the European fetishization of Africa, the horrors of slavery, and the complexities of social class and gender dynamics.


  3. #3

    Pamela by Samuel Richardson
    Save:

    'Pamela' by Samuel Richardson is a novel set in the 18th century, focusing on the story of a young servant girl named Pamela who faces the unwanted advances of her employer's son, Mr. B. The book is written in an epistolary format, with Pamela narrating her experiences through letters to her parents. The plot revolves around Pamela's struggles to maintain her virtue and resist Mr. B's advances, ultimately leading to a surprising turn of events where she ends up marrying him.

    I RETURN the Manuscript of Pamela by the Bearer, which I have read with a great deal of Pleasure. It is written with that Spirit of Truth and agreeable Simplicity, which, tho’ much wanted, is seldom f...

  4. #4

    Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe
    Save:

    Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe is a novel that follows the tumultuous life of the titular character, Moll Flanders, who navigates through various misfortunes and fortunes. Born in prison, Moll goes on to become a thief, a wife multiple times over, and a mother to numerous children. The book delves into themes of survival, societal expectations of women, and the moral dilemmas faced by Moll as she makes questionable choices to secure her place in the world. The writing style is described as lyrical by some readers, while others find it tedious and lacking in emotional depth.

    The world is so taken up of late with novels and romances, that it will be hard for a private history to be taken for genuine, where the names and other circumstances of the person are concealed, and ...

  5. #5

    Newton's Cannon - Age of Unreason by J. Gregory Keyes (Greg Keyes)
    Save:

    In Newton's Cannon, J. Gregory Keyes crafts an alternative history set in the 17th century, blending science and magic to create a world where historical figures like Benjamin Franklin and Sir Isaac Newton navigate a realm of alchemy and invention. The story follows the characters as they grapple with dark forces from another plane seeking to enslave or destroy humanity, all while exploring the possibilities of a universe governed by alchemy and mystical advancements.

    The book is praised for its intricate plot twists, well-designed narrative turns, and the vivid portrayal of historical characters in a magical context. Keyes' writing style is described as consistent, dark, mystical, and engaging, seamlessly blending elements of fantasy, alternate history, and science fiction to create a captivating and imaginative tale.

    Louis awoke to the clatter of Bontemps, his valet, putting away his folding bed, as he did every morning. A frigid wind blustered in through the open windows of his bedchamber, and Louis greeted it wi...

  6. #6
    Quicksilver
    Book 1 in the series:The Baroque Cycle

    Quicksilver - The Baroque Cycle by Neal Stephenson
    Save:

    'Quicksilver' by Neal Stephenson is a hefty historical fiction novel set in the 17th and 18th centuries, focusing on the birth of scientific and financial modernity. The book follows various characters, including Daniel Waterhouse, as they navigate through significant historical events like the Glorious Revolution, the Royal Society, and the interactions between famous figures like Isaac Newton and Robert Hooke. The writing style blends elements of science, history, and humor, creating a rich and immersive reading experience that delves into the complexities of the era.

    ENOCH ROUNDS THE CORNER JUST as the executioner raises the noose above the woman’s head. The crowd on the Common stop praying and sobbing for just as long as Jack Ketch stands there, elbows locked, fo...

  7. #7
    The Lady Elizabeth
    Book 1 in the series:Elizabeth I

    The Lady Elizabeth - Elizabeth I by Alison Weir
    Save:

    'The Lady Elizabeth' by Alison Weir is a fictionalized biography that follows the life of Elizabeth I from her early childhood to the day she becomes Queen of England. Weir weaves historical facts with imaginative storytelling, portraying Elizabeth's struggles, triumphs, and the political intrigue surrounding her path to the throne. The book delves into Elizabeth's relationships, her experiences under her sister Mary's reign, and her eventual rise to power, providing a compelling narrative that brings Tudor England to life.

    Alison Weir's writing style in 'The Lady Elizabeth' has been praised for its ability to blend historical accuracy with engaging storytelling. Readers appreciate how Weir infuses the novel with details about Elizabeth's early life, the court dynamics, and the challenges she faced, all while maintaining a sense of authenticity. Weir's meticulous research shines through in the narrative, offering a glimpse into the Tudor era and making the characters, especially Elizabeth, come alive with emotions and complexities.

    On a hot, still morning in July, the Lady Mary, daughter to King Henry the Eighth, arrived at the great country palace of Hatfield, trotting into the courtyard on a white palfrey followed by four gent...

  8. #8

    The Frontiersmen: A Narrative by Allan W. Eckert
    Save:

    'The Frontiersmen: A Narrative' by Allan W. Eckert follows the westward expansion of the United States into the middle northern states like Ohio. It presents a narrative that blends historical facts with creative storytelling, focusing on pioneers and Native Americans during a key period of American history. The author, Eckert, uses a novel-like approach to recount the struggles and conflicts faced by individuals such as Simon Kenton and Tecumseh, offering a detailed and immersive look into the American frontier during the 17th and 18th centuries.


  9. #9

    The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole
    Save:

    The Castle of Otranto is considered one of the first gothic novels, setting the stage for the genre with its elements of romance, horror, and supernatural occurrences. The story revolves around Prince Manfred of Otranto, who faces tragic events such as the death of his son, a mysterious giant helmet falling from the sky, and a series of unexpected twists and turns within the castle's walls. The narrative is set in a chivalric Middle Ages backdrop filled with cruelty, tyranny, and the struggle for power, creating an atmosphere of foreboding and intrigue. The novel introduces classic gothic themes such as secret passages, supernatural occurrences, and a sense of impending doom.

    The writing style of The Castle of Otranto is often described as melodramatic, entertaining, and humorous. Despite its flaws and dated elements, the book is praised for its historical significance in shaping the gothic fiction genre. The characters, including Prince Manfred and the brave heroine, navigate through a web of secrets, mistaken identities, and eerie events, leading to a dramatic and suspenseful conclusion. Overall, the novel offers a unique blend of gothic elements, moral dilemmas, and unexpected plot developments that continue to captivate readers interested in early gothic literature.

    Manfred, Prince of Otranto, had one son and one daughter: the latter, a most beautiful virgin, aged eighteen, was called Matilda. Conrad, the son, was three years younger, a homely youth, sickly, and ...

  10. #10

    The System of the World - The Baroque Cycle by Neal Stephenson
    Save:

    The final volume of 'The Baroque Cycle', 'The System of the World' by Neal Stephenson, takes place in London of the year 1714 and wraps up all the loose ends of this epic tale involving iconic characters like Isaac Newton, Leibniz, and other movers and shakers of the time. The book skillfully weaves together historical events, science, romance, and adventure, creating a lively and urgent narrative that brings a satisfying conclusion to the series. Stephenson's detailed narrative and lofty dialogue successfully recreate a fascinating period in history, blending elements of historical fiction with a science fiction approach.

    In Boston in October 1713, Daniel Waterhouse, sixty-seven years of age, the Founder and sole Fellow of a failing college, the Massachusetts Bay Colony of Technologickal Arts, has received a startling ...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Baroque Cycle )

Page 1 of 10Next Page