Books matching: 17th century england
57 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Newton and the Counterfeiter is a historical non-fiction book that delves into a lesser-known part of Sir Isaac Newton's life as the Warden of the Mint, where he combatted counterfeiters in London during the late 17th century. The book paints a vivid picture of the era, detailing Newton's entanglements with William Chaloner, the greatest counterfeiter of the time, and the intense battle between the two. The writing style is engaging and accessible, making the historical narrative feel like a thrilling crime story.
The tower of Great St. Mary's catches what daylight remains as a young man passes the town boundaries. He has come about sixty miles, almost certainly on foot (his meticulously kept accounts show no b... - #2
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 ... - #3
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 ... - #4
'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.
- #5
'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.
- #6
'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.
- #7
"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.
- #8
'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... - #9
'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 ... - #10
Set in 17th century England during the time of the witch trials, 'The Minister's Daughter' by Julie Hearn follows the story of Nell, a merrybegot and granddaughter of a healer, who is accused of witchcraft by the minister's daughters to conceal a pregnancy scandal. The book seamlessly weaves together historical events, magical realism, and the persecution of innocent women during a time of hysteria and fear. The narrative alternates between the confession of Patience Madden and flashbacks to the events leading up to the accusations, showcasing the clash between old knowledge and new beliefs in a society governed by ignorance and superstition.
The author, Julie Hearn, skillfully combines elements of fantasy, historical fiction, and supernatural occurrences to create a compelling story of betrayal, persecution, and resilience. Through the character of Nell, readers are immersed in a world where the line between reality and magic blurs, as she navigates the treacherous accusations of witchcraft and the struggle for survival in a society plagued by fear and deceit.
I never meant it to end the way it did. Grace might have done, but not me. Grace was fifteen, as artful as a snake, and already on the slippery slope to Hell. But I, Patience Madden, could have stoppe...