Books matching: 17th century england
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- #1
Save:A sensuous, atmospheric slice of historical fiction best enjoyed by fans of food, myth, and slow-cooked storytelling - worth sampling, especially if you savor novels that linger on all the flavors of life.
'John Saturnall's Feast' by Lawrence Norfolk is a historical novel set in 17th century England during the time of the English Civil War. The story follows the life of John Saturnall, a young kitchen boy with a gift for recognizing scents and tastes, as he rises to become a master cook. The novel intertwines elements of culinary delights, love, historical events such as the Puritan revolution and the Restoration, and an ancient legend. The book is praised for its detailed descriptions of food, the methods used in a period kitchen, and the lyrical love story woven into the narrative.
THE PROTOCOLS WERE SIMPLE, Lady Lucretia reminded herself. She had, after all, rehearsed them so many times. In the presence chamber, noble ladies might approach Her Majesty. But they might not speak...September 2012•420 pages - #2
Save:A gorgeously written, deeply moving historical novel about hope and survival during the plague - just be ready for a controversial ending.
'Year of Wonders' by Geraldine Brooks is a historical fiction novel set in a small English village during the outbreak of the plague in 1665 and onwards. The story follows Anna Frith, a young widow, as she witnesses the devastating effects of the plague on her village, the struggles of survival, and the resilience of the human spirit. The book weaves together true historical events with fictional elements, offering a gripping narrative that delves into themes of survival, loss, faith, and community. Readers praised the author's meticulous research, captivating storytelling, and vivid descriptions that bring the 17th-century setting to life.
I USED TO LOVE this season. The wood stacked by the door, the tang of its sap still speaking of forest. The hay made, all golden in the low afternoon light. The rumble of the apples tumbling into the...2001•323 pages - #3
Save:A nostalgic, romantic time-slip tale with a gothic flair - perfect for fans of gentle historical mysteries and soulmate love stories, but may be too dreamy or meandering for those after something punchier.
Julia Beckett, a children's illustrator, impulsively buys an old farmhouse that she feels a strong connection to. As she settles in, she starts experiencing flashbacks to the life of Mariana, a woman from the 17th century who lived in the same house. The book follows Julia as she unravels the mystery of her connection to Mariana, exploring themes of reincarnation, time travel, and a star-crossed love story set against the backdrop of the English Civil War. The writing style is praised for being engaging, with well-developed characters and a blend of historical fiction and modern storytelling.
It was all the fault of a poet, and the fact that our weekend visit with a favorite elderly aunt in Exeter had put my father in a vaguely poetic mood. Faced with an unexpected fork in the road on our...1994•381 pages - #4
Save:Juicy, audacious, and surprisingly relevant, “Moll Flanders” is a wild ride through old England’s seedier side. Not always an easy read, but definitely a landmark in the history of the novel - and for those up to the challenge, Moll is a force you won’t soon forget.
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.
1722•335 pages - #5
Save:A bold, heartfelt series starter that's not afraid to get messy with feelings and magic. While it leans young and slow to build, the emotional pay-off, representation, and intriguing world will keep many readers hooked. Check it out if you love character-first, flawed-heroine fantasies!
'A Crown of Ivy and Glass' follows the story of Gemma, a young woman dealing with chronic pain and mental health struggles. The plot is filled with intricate world-building and complex side characters, creating a captivating and immersive reading experience. While some readers found the romance aspect lacking maturity, many appreciated the deep exploration of themes like chronic illness and anxiety, making them feel truly seen and connected to the story.
June 2023•525 pages - #6
Save:'The Passage' by Irina Shapiro is a captivating time travel romance novel that takes readers on an immersive journey through different time periods. The story follows Neve, a film production scout, who accidentally travels back to the 17th century through a hidden passage in a church crypt. As she navigates this new world, she forms relationships with intriguing characters like Hugo and Max, unraveling political intrigues and romantic entanglements. The author expertly weaves together historical details and a well-developed plot, keeping readers engaged with the adventures and relationships of the characters. The writing style immerses readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of both the past and present, creating a compelling narrative that blends fantasy with realism.
The book 'The Passage' stands out for its well-researched historical elements, engaging plot twists, and vivid character development. Readers praise the author for her ability to create a gripping storyline that keeps them eagerly turning the pages to uncover the fates of Neve, Hugo, and Max. The seamless integration of fiction with historical facts, along with the descriptive narrative about England in the 1600s, adds depth and authenticity to the novel. Additionally, the slow-burning romance between Neve and Hugo, filled with tension and emotional depth, resonates with readers and enhances the overall reading experience.
Lady Everly wasn’t quite as formidable as I expected, I mused as I got dressed the following morning. She was well into her eighties, and likely had his lordship later in life, which accounted for the...2015•381 pages A lively, readable sweep through Stuart England - great for newcomers and casual readers, but may leave serious history geeks wanting more substance.
'Civil War: The History of England Volume 3' by Peter Ackroyd delves into the turbulent 17th century in England, focusing on the struggles and conflicts during the reigns of the Stuart monarchs. The author explores the political, religious, and social dynamics of the time, highlighting the power struggles between the kings and parliament, the impact of economic progress on English society, and the significant events such as the Civil War and the Glorious Revolution. Ackroyd's writing style combines informative historical accounts with entertaining storytelling, offering a detailed narrative of the period.
Sir Robert Carey rode furiously from London to Edinburgh along the Great North Road, spending one night in Yorkshire and another in Northumberland; he arrived at Holyrood Palace, ‘be-bloodied with gre...September 2014•521 pages- #8
Save:"Act of Oblivion" by Robert Harris is a historical fiction novel that provides a pretty accurate retelling of the lives of two of the regicides of Charles I, Ned Whalley and Will Goffe. The plot revolves around these characters escaping to America after Charles II vowed to hunt down the men who signed his father's death warrant. The narrative delves into the clash of ideologies between puritans and royalists, drawing parallels to contemporary times. The story unfolds in the backdrop of the English Civil War and early New England, showcasing the struggles and survival of the central characters amidst historical events that have shaped the world on both sides of the North Atlantic.
is praised for its detailed storytelling, accurate historical descriptions, and believable characters. It successfully builds a compelling narrative wrapped in real events, portraying the resilience and survival of the characters in the face of pursuit and danger. Robert Harris skillfully weaves a tale that immerses readers into the historical settings of 1660s England and New England, making it an engaging and captivating read for those interested in historical fiction.
IF YOU HAD set out in the summer of 1660 to travel the four miles from Boston to Cambridge, Massachusetts, the first house you would have come to after crossing the Charles River would have been the G...September 2022•477 pages - #9
Save:Engaging and meticulously researched, this is a must-read for anyone passionate about women’s history or the roots of American religious freedom - though be prepared for some dense historical and theological passages along the way.
'American Jezebel: The Uncommon Life of Anne Hutchinson, the Woman Who Defied the Puritans' by Eve LaPlante is a thoroughly researched and well-written account of Anne Hutchinson's life, focusing on her defiance of the Puritans and her contributions to the early American colonies. The book delves into the theological differences between Anne's beliefs and those of the colonial leaders of the day, providing a fascinating portrayal of a remarkable woman who stood up to the abuse of power.
The book also explores the historical context of Anne Hutchinson's trials, highlighting the struggles she faced as a woman promoting Christianity and challenging societal norms. Through detailed descriptions of her family, accusers, and allies, the biography paints a cautionary tale of the consequences of speaking out against authority and the importance of standing up for one's beliefs.
On that bitterly cold Tuesday in November 1637, the session of the General Court of Massachusetts halted the moment the defendant, Anne Marbury Hutchinson, dropped to the floor. Her husband and his br...2004•336 pages - #10
Save:A gorgeously written, scandal-filled journey through Jacobean England, focusing on two unforgettable women - and a must for fans of immersive historical fiction and stories of female friendship.
A Net for Small Fishes is a historical fiction novel based on a true scandal involving two women, Frances Howard, Countess of Essex, and Mistress Anne Turner, set in the Jacobean court. The book explores the friendship between these two women from different backgrounds as they navigate through their complicated lives, making poor decisions that lead to a shocking scandal. The plot delves into the challenges faced by women in the 17th century, their struggles against societal prejudices, and the intricate dynamics of their relationships.
The servant led the way as if into battle, his torch throwing monstrous shadows of my form against the walls. Fog muffled the light and dewed the stone. Although midmorning, the place felt to be just...November 2021•337 pages
