Books matching: character development in historical fiction
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- #1
Save:"Lancelot" by Giles Kristian is a bold and imaginative retelling of the Arthurian legend from the perspective of Lancelot, the warrior who betrayed his King and best friend, Arthur. The story delves into Lancelot's early years, his relationships with Arthur and Guinevere, and the events that led to Britain's downfall. The writing style is described as passionate, gripping, and emotional, with a focus on character development and humanizing the legendary figures.
The plot of the book revolves around Lancelot's internal struggles, his loyalty to Arthur, and his forbidden love for Guinevere. The narrative is praised for its depiction of love, friendship, honor, and loss, as well as its exploration of the complexities of the characters. is set in fifth-century Britain, offering a gritty and realistic portrayal of the Arthurian world, with vivid battle scenes and emotional depth.
I STILL REMEMBER my father’s smell: leather and steel. The wool grease which was in his cloak and on his trews and on his blades, keeping the water out but stinking of sheep. The sweet hay scent of th... - #2
Save:Denis Johnson's 'Train Dreams' is a novella that delves into the life of Robert Grainier, a day laborer in the Pacific Northwestern US during the early 20th century. The story follows Grainier through various hardships, including the loss of his family in a fire, as he navigates the changing world around him. Johnson's writing style is described as spare, stark, and evocative, capturing the essence of the American West with vivid and detailed imagery.
In the summer of 1917 Robert Grainier took part in an attempt on the life of a Chinese laborer caught, or anyway accused of, stealing from the company stores of the Spokane International Railway in th... - #3
Save:'Westering Women' by Sandra Dallas is about a group of women in the 1850s who agree to accompany two ministers and one's wife on a wagon train to the California gold fields to become wives for miners. The story details the hardships and disasters faced by these women along the way, including the fear of being murdered or being accused of murder. Despite the challenges, the book is seen as a testament to the human spirit and perseverance, capturing the struggles and twists of people in another era.
The plot of the book focuses on the journey of these women on the wagon train, depicting the struggles and trials of westward migration during that time period. The writing style is described as well-written, with likable characters and a plot that unfolds smoothly. The author, Sandra Dallas, is praised for her ability to capture the essence of the westward movement of pioneers without repeating herself, keeping the reader engaged from the beginning.
Hidden beneath her black umbrella, Maggie stood in the shelter of the church and stared at the woman reading the broadsheet. She was big, perhaps the largest woman Maggie had ever seen, not fat but so... - #4
Save:Stephanie Cowell's 'Marrying Mozart' is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and his interactions with the Weber family, particularly focusing on his relationships with the four Weber sisters. The book portrays Mozart's struggles with finding love, securing a livelihood, and navigating complex family dynamics in 18th-century Vienna. Through the perspectives of the characters, especially Sophie Weber, the youngest sister, the reader is taken on a journey through time, exploring the intertwined lives of the Webers and the renowned composer.
The novel is praised for its vivid depiction of 18th-century Austria, bringing to life the music-filled evenings hosted by Fridolin Weber and the intricate family relationships within the Weber household. Cowell's storytelling style seamlessly weaves together historical facts and fictional elements, capturing the essence of Mozart's personal life and musical endeavors. The plot revolves around Mozart's romantic pursuits, his growth as a composer, and the emotional complexities of his relationships with the Weber sisters, culminating in a poignant exploration of love, loss, and artistic passion.
Up five flights of cracking wood steps of a modest town house in the city of Mannheim, Fridolin Weber stood peering over his candle, which cast a dim light down the rounded banister below. “Mind the b... - #5
Save:The Way West by A.B. Guthrie Jr. is a western historical novel that follows Lije Evans as he captains a wagon train along the Oregon Trail in 1845. The book vividly describes the challenges, motivations, and relationships of the pioneers, settlers, and mountain men as they journey towards the promised land of Oregon. Through the perspectives of various characters, the novel delves into themes of leadership, gender roles, perseverance, and the complex interactions between the settlers and Native American tribes.
Guthrie's writing style is praised for its historical accuracy, detailed storytelling, and authentic dialogue fitting for the time period. The book captures the essence of the American West, portraying the hardships, adventures, and triumphs of the early pioneers in a compelling and engaging narrative that resonates with readers interested in the western genre and historical fiction.
THE DAY dawned clear, but it had rained the night before, the sudden squally rain of middle March. Taking a look out the kitchen door, seeing the path lead down to the muddy barnyard and the tracks of...
(Also, see 62 recommendations for the series The Big Sky ) - #6
Save:In 'Mission to Paris' by Alan Furst, the story unfolds in 1938 Paris, amidst a backdrop of espionage, looming war, and political intrigue. The protagonist, a famous Hollywood actor of Viennese descent, finds himself unwittingly embroiled in a web of espionage and amateur spying, as he navigates the treacherous landscape filled with German operatives, French aristocrats, and emigres. The author expertly captures the atmosphere of Paris on the brink of war, painting a vivid picture of a city shrouded in fear and uncertainty, where every action holds a deeper meaning and danger lurks at every corner.
IN PARIS, THE EVENINGS OF SEPTEMBER ARE SOMETIMES WARM, EXCESSIVELY gentle, and, in the magic particular to that city, irresistably seductive. The autumn of the year 1938 began in just such weather an...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Night Soldiers ) - #7
Save:In "The Wedding Ring Quest" by Carla Kelly, readers are taken on a whimsical journey with Scottish spinster Mary Rennie, Royal Navy Post Captain Ross Rennie, and his son Nathan as they embark on a quest to find a lost wedding ring in a Christmas cake. The story delves into the shattering effects of 24 years of warfare on Captain Ross Rennie, a man who has struggled to readjust to civilian life after fighting in the Napoleonic Wars. The book combines humor, emotional depth, and a compelling love story as Mary and Ross navigate their own personal struggles and forge a deep connection amidst the backdrop of historical events.
Carla Kelly's writing style shines in "The Wedding Ring Quest" as she skillfully crafts richly drawn characters with authentic personalities and experiences. The book is praised for its engaging storytelling, sprinkles of humor, and nuanced exploration of the impact of war on individuals. Through a mix of light-hearted moments and intense passages, Kelly weaves a tale that captivates readers and showcases her sensitivity towards human nature and the complexities of relationships.
This was no ordinary return to Plymouth; Captain Ross Rennie felt it in his bones. A frigate captain much wiser than he—dead now, like so many friends—had described it best during one of those chats o... - #8
Save:"Playing Beatie Bow" by Ruth Park is a time travel story that follows the journey of Abigail, a 14-year-old girl from 1980s Sydney, who gets transported back to the 1870s. After finding herself in a different era, Abigail learns about life, love, and family dynamics while being taken in by a family who believes she has a specific role to fulfill before she can return to her own time. The book explores themes of relationships, personal growth, and understanding different time periods, all wrapped in a coming-of-age tale with a touch of historical fiction. Ruth Park's writing style is praised for its ability to vividly evoke the historical setting and create realistic, flawed characters that resonate with readers.
Abigail's journey in "Playing Beatie Bow" is not only a captivating time travel adventure but also a heartfelt coming-of-age novel that appeals to both young adult and adult readers. The plot unfolds with layers of depth, offering entertainment through the engaging storyline while also providing thought-provoking reflections on the differences between past and contemporary Sydney. The characters, especially Abigail, undergo significant emotional growth throughout the story, making it a compelling read that delves into themes of family, identity, and personal discovery.
So for the first ten years of her life she was Lynnie Kirk, and happy as a lark. A hot-headed rag of a child, she vibrated with devotion for many things and people, including her parents. She loved he... - #9
Save:'Cathedral of the Sea' by Ildefonso Falcones is a historical novel set in 14th-century Barcelona during the construction of the Santa Maria del Mar cathedral. The story follows the life of Arnau Estanyol, a peasant freeman tradesman, as he navigates through the horrors of war, plague, and the Inquisition. The narrative covers various historical events and social classes, providing a vivid depiction of medieval Barcelona.
The writing style of the book is engaging and well-researched, offering readers an immersive experience into the life and struggles of the characters. The plot revolves around Arnau's journey from a humble beginning to significant wealth, intertwined with the challenges of the time period, such as feudal laws, religious authorities, and societal norms. While drawing comparisons to 'Pillars of the Earth,' the book stands out for its detailed descriptions of medieval Barcelona and its characters' compelling story arcs.
BERNAT REALIZED NOBODY was looking in his direction, and glanced up at the clear blue sky. The weak late September sun played on the faces of his guests. He had put so much time and effort into prepar... - #10
Save:The Accidental Empress by Allison Pataki is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life of Empress Sisi, also known as Elizabeth, Duchess of Bavaria. The story follows Sisi's unexpected rise to becoming the Empress of Austria after capturing the heart of Emperor Franz Joseph. The book explores Sisi's struggles with court life, her tumultuous relationship with her domineering mother-in-law, and her quest for personal freedom amidst the rigid protocol of the Austrian court. Through emotional storytelling and historical detail, the author paints a vivid picture of Sisi's journey as a young bride, mother, and empress, capturing the reader's attention with a blend of romance and historical accuracy.
Just then Sisi spotted the figure crossing the meadow, a dark silhouette piercing the backdrop of the crenellated white castle and deep-blue sky, and she ducked once more out of sight. Her brother Kar...
