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HISTORICAL FICTION

THE WHOLE TRUTH, EVEN WHEN IT HURTS

Posts tagged historical fiction
A Sydney Side Saxon

By Rolf Boldrewood

"A Sydney Side Saxon" is a captivating tale that delves into the complexities of identity, heritage, and belonging. Set against the backdrop of multicultural Sydney, the story follows the protagonist as she navigates the challenges of straddling two worlds—the traditional expectations of her Anglo-Saxon lineage and the vibrant diversity of her Australian upbringing. As she learns to embrace her heritage while forging her own path, readers are taken on a poignant journey of self-discovery and acceptance. With richly drawn characters and evocative storytelling, this novel is a compelling exploration of cultural fusion and the universal quest for understanding one's place in the world.

Heinemann and Balestier, 1891, 96 pages

SILENT HONOUR

MAY CONTAIN MARKUP

Danielle Steel

Danielle Steel's 38th novel creates a powerful, moving portrayal of families divided, lives shattered, and a nation torn apart by prejudice during a shameful period in recent American history. On February 19, 1942, President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, giving the military the power to remove Japanese-Americans from their communities at will. Silent Honor tells of Masao Takashimaya and his family, as they fight to stay alive amid the drama of life and death in the internment camp at Tule Lake.

Doubleday. Australia. 1996. 342p.

Nevermore

Nevermore By Rolf Boldrewood

Nevermore by Rolf Boldrewood is a captivating novel that weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and adventure. Set against the backdrop of the rugged Australian wilderness, the story follows the journey of a young explorer as he navigates through the challenges of the untamed landscape. Boldrewood's vivid descriptions transport readers to another time and place, immersing them in the rich tapestry of the Australian outback. With its intricate plot and compelling characters, Nevermore is a timeless classic that continues to enthrall readers with its blend of action and intrigue.

Macmillan, 1892, 324 pages

Robbery Under Arms

By Rolf Boldrewood

Robbery Under Arms was acclaimed as an Australian classic almost immediately after it appeared in book form in the late 1880s. It was praised for its excitement, romance and authentic picture of 1850s colonial life. As the first writer to attempt a long narrative in the voice of an uneducated Australian bushman, Rolf Boldrewood had created a story with enduring cultural resonance. Its continuing appeal and popularity have seen the tale frequently adapted for stage, radio, film and television. During all of this time the novel's text was not stable. It lost some material accidentally in its early typesettings, and these omissions were never repaired. It was later abridged by its author at the publisher's request, but the publisher botched his instructions. And, as with any much-reprinted work, thousands of small changes gradually crept into the text. This Academy Edition is the first full-scale critical edition of the novel. It presents the text as it originally appeared in instalments in the pages of the Sydney Mail in 1882-83. It allows readers to experience the first-person narration that Henry Lawson was inspired by, to appreciate how the special qualities of voice were partially flattened over time and to know exactly what material was omitted.

Univ. of Queensland Press, 2006, 479 pages

The Squatter's Dream

By Rolf Boldrewood

"The Squatter's Dream" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, belonging, and the pursuit of the Australian dream. Set against the backdrop of the harsh Australian outback, the story follows the journey of a young squatter named Jack as he grapples with his aspirations for the future and the harsh realities of his present circumstances. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, this novel challenges readers to question the true meaning of success and the sacrifices one must make to achieve it. "The Squatter's Dream" is a poignant exploration of hope, resilience, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.

Macmillan and Company, 1892, 319 pages

The Miner's Right

By Rolf Boldrewood

The Miner's Right, as 'A Tale of the Australian Goldfields', is the counterpart of Boldrewood's bushranging classic . Written out of the author's immediate experience as Goldfields Commissioner at Gulgong in the 1870s, it also casts back to the Chinese riots at Lambing Flat, to the robbery of the gold-escort at Eugowra, and to some aspects of the Eureka stockade. While these events are set in the romantic framework of the nineteenth-century novel, the democratic sentiment of the time is reflected to a greater degree than Boldrewood himself could have realised. The Miner's Right is both an example of the colonial romance, and an account 'from the life' of conditions on the Australian goldfields in a time of social and political change.

Macmillan, 1890, 397 pages

Cross of St. George

MAY C ONTAIN MARKUP

ALEXANDER KENT

In "Cross of St. George," readers are transported back to the turbulent times of World War II, where espionage, sacrifice, and courage intertwine to shape the fate of nations. Set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied France, the novel follows the journey of a brave young resistance fighter, Catherine Dubois, whose unwavering determination is put to the ultimate test when she is tasked with a dangerous mission that could change the course of the war. As Catherine navigates the treacherous landscape of wartime espionage, she must grapple with complex moral dilemmas, betrayal, and the ever-present threat of discovery. With meticulous historical detail and a gripping narrative, "Cross of St. George" is a compelling tale of heroism, love, and the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.

London. Arrow Books. 1996. 340p.

The Talented Mrs. Greenway

MAY CONTAIN MARKUP

By Tea Cooper

In The Talented Mrs. Greenway, readers are invited into the mysterious world of Agatha Greenway, a renowned painter with a shadowy past. As her intricate and captivating artwork takes the art world by storm, whispers of her enigmatic life story begin to spread.

Set against the backdrop of the bustling art scene in New York City, this gripping novel explores the boundaries between art and reality, fame and anonymity, and the price of hidden truths. As Agatha's carefully constructed facade starts to crumble, readers are taken on a journey that blurs the lines between perception and deception.

With masterful storytelling and a keen eye for detail, The Talented Mrs. Greenway is a compelling exploration of artistry, ambition, and the secrets that lie beneath the surface. Dive into this mesmerizing tale and uncover the hidden layers of Agatha Greenway's world.

Discover the truth behind the talent in The Talented Mrs. Greenway.

Australia. HQ fiction. 2023. 378p.

The Last Chance: A Tale of the Golden West

By Rolf Boldrewood

In "The Last Chance: A Tale of the Golden West," readers are transported to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West during the height of the Gold Rush. Follow the gripping journey of a diverse cast of characters as they navigate the treacherous frontier in search of fortune, redemption, and a place to call home. Filled with heart-pounding action, intricate plot twists, and poignant moments of human connection, this novel captures the essence of resilience and the unyielding spirit of the pioneers who dared to chase their dreams in the untamed wilderness. "The Last Chance" is a compelling narrative that explores the triumphs and tragedies of the human experience against the backdrop of a defining era in American history.

Macmillan, 1905, 402 pages

Ghost Camp

By Rolf Boldrewood

In "Ghost Camp" by Rolf Boldrewood, readers are transported to the rugged Australian outback, where the forces of nature and the human spirit collide in a gripping tale of survival and redemption. Set against the backdrop of the unforgiving wilderness, this novel follows a diverse group of characters as they navigate the challenges of the frontier.

Boldrewood's vivid descriptions bring to life the harsh beauty of the Australian landscape, from the scorching heat of the day to the eerie stillness of the night. As the characters face their demons and forge unlikely alliances, they discover the true meaning of courage and sacrifice.

"Ghost Camp" is a timeless classic that delves into themes of loyalty, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between humans and the natural world. Boldrewood's masterful storytelling and rich character development will captivate readers from start to finish, making this a must-read for fans of historical fiction and adventure tales.

Macmillan, 1902 - 409 pages

A Colonial Reformer

By Rolf Boldrewood

A Colonial Reformer delves deep into the life of an unsung hero of colonial America. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, this book brings to light the struggles and triumphs of a visionary figure who challenged the status quo and paved the way for change. Readers will be captivated by the story of a man ahead of his time, whose unwavering dedication to reform reshaped the course of history. A compelling narrative that sheds light on a forgotten chapter of America's past, A Colonial Reformer is a must-read for anyone interested in the untold stories of courage and perseverance.

Macmillan and Company, 1891, 518 pages

A Modern Buccaneer Vol. 3

BY Rolf Boldrewood

A Modern Buccaneer Vol. 3 continues the thrilling adventures of Captain Lucas Black and his intrepid crew as they navigate the treacherous waters of the Caribbean in search of lost treasure and high-seas intrigue. In this latest installment, Captain Black faces his greatest challenge yet as he squares off against a formidable rival and uncovers long-buried secrets that threaten to upend everything he holds dear. With pulse-pounding action, unexpected twists, and a cast of colorful characters, this captivating tale of piracy, betrayal, and redemption will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. Join Captain Black on his daring quest in A Modern Buccaneer Vol. 3 and set sail for adventure like never before.

Macmillan and Company, 1894, 298 pages

A Modern Buccaneer Vol. 2

BY ROLF BOLDREWOOD

Step into a thrilling world of high-seas adventure and daring exploits with "A Modern Buccaneer Vol. 2." In this riveting sequel, Captain Morgan embarks on a new series of treacherous voyages, facing formidable foes and unexpected challenges at every turn. As alliances are tested and secrets are revealed, readers will be swept away on a pulse-pounding journey filled with twists and turns. With vivid storytelling and vibrant characters, this book is a must-read for fans of action-packed tales of the sea. Join Captain Morgan on another epic escapade in "A Modern Buccaneer Vol. 2."

Macmillan, 1895, 245 pages

A Modern Buccaneer Vol.1.

By Rolf Boldrewood

"A Modern Buccaneer Vol.1" invites readers on an exhilarating voyage across the high seas of the 21st century. This captivating novel follows the daring exploits of Captain James Reynolds, a charismatic and enigmatic figure who navigates the complex waters of modern-day piracy. From heart-pounding heists to unexpected alliances, readers will be swept away by the thrilling adventures of Captain Reynolds and his crew as they challenge the conventions of traditional piracy in a contemporary setting. With its blend of action, intrigue, and unexpected twists, "A Modern Buccaneer Vol.1" is a must-read for fans of swashbuckling tales and high-stakes adventure."

Macmillan, 1894, 247 pages

Writing Pirates: Vernacular Fiction and Oceans in Late Ming China

By Yuanfei Wang

In Writing Pirates, Yuanfei Wang connects Chinese literary production to emerging discourses of pirates and the sea. In the late Ming dynasty, so-called “Japanese pirates” raided southeast coastal China. Hideyoshi invaded Korea. Europeans sailed for overseas territories, and Chinese maritime merchants and emigrants founded diaspora communities in Southeast Asia. Travel writings, histories, and fiction of the period jointly narrate pirates and China’s Orient in maritime Asia. Wang shows that the late Ming discourses of pirates and the sea were fluid, ambivalent, and dialogical; they simultaneously entailed imperialistic and personal narratives of the “other”: foreigners, renegades, migrants, and marginalized authors. At the center of the discourses, early modern concepts of empire, race, and authenticity were intensively negotiated. Connecting late Ming literature to the global maritime world, Writing Pirates expands current discussions of Chinese diaspora and debates on Sinophone language and identity.

Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, 2021. 227p.

Hitler's Niece

USED BOOK. MAY CONTAIN MARK-UP

By Ron Hansen

"Scrupulously researched. Hansen's informed interpretation of events makes convincing, if melancholy, reading." -Boston Sunday Globe

"A novel that reads like history." -Austin American-Statesman,

"A carefully crafted and distinctly macabre work of fiction." -Village Voice

"Hansen has written a convincing novel that is provocative, disturbing, and illuminating." -Raleigh News & Observer

"Hansen is a fearless storyteller. . .. [He] creates a savagely human portrait of Hitler. . .. [Hitler's Niece] reads, like all good books, as a vehicle for the writer's obsession--an intelligent, haunting, an‹ oddly devotional exploration of the unimaginable Hitler in love. -BookForum

NY. Perennial. 1999. 321p.

Jefferson: A Novel

USED BOOK. MAY CONTAIN MARK-UP

By Max Byrd

FROM THE COVER: “It is 1784, and Jefferson, the newly appointed American ambassador to the court of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, has just arrived in Paris-a city adrift in intrigue, upheaval, and temptation that will challenge his principles, incite his passions, and change Thomas Jefferson forever.... Through the eyes of his impressionable young secretary, William Short, we watch as the future president builds his dream of an America with fellow patriots John Adams and Ben Franklin, and as he struggles between political ambition and an unexpected crisis of the heart with a woman who has the power to destroy him. And we discover-behind the face the complex Virginian shows the world -an enigmatic statesman who fights for individual liberty even as he keeps slaves, who champions free will even as he denies it to his daughters, and who holds men to the highest standards of honor-even as he embarks on a shadowy double life of his own.”

"A Novel To Be Admired And Enjoyed,The Best Fictionalized Life Of Jefferson Yet!' -Jack McLaughlin,

NY. Bantam. 1994. 470p.

Wolf Hall: A Novel

USED BOOK. MAY CONTAIN MARK-UP

By Hilary Mantel

FROM CHAPTER 1:

“So now get up."

Felled, dazed, silent, he has fallen; knocked full length on the cobbles of the yard. His head turns sideways; his eyes are turned toward the gate, as if someone might arrive to help him out. One blow, properly placed, could i kill him now. Blood from the gash on his head--which was his father's first effort is trickling across his face. Add to this, his left eye is blinded; but if he squints sideways, with his right eye he can see that the stitching of his father's boot is unraveling. The twine has sprung clear of the leather, and a hard knot in it has caught his eyebrow and opened another cut.”

NY. Henry Holt and Company. 2009. 548p.

The Lost Stradivarius

By John Meade Falkner

Edited with an Introduction by Edward Wilson who notes: “The detailed apparatus to this edition has been demanded not only by Time, which has altered not just the senses of words but a whole cultural hinterland beyond a modern reader's recognition, but by Falkner himself, who delighted in sowing his novel with literary and antiquarian allusions. Indeed, a character, Mr Gaskell, in The Lost Stradivarius itself, when reading an eighteenth-century diary in pursuit of highly sensational matter cannot resist telling us that "the minute details given were often of high antiquarian interest'“

London. Oxford University Press. 1954. (1895). USED BOOK. CONTAINS MARK-UP.

The Song Of Achilles

By Madeline Miller

FROM USA TODAY: “"It takes a truly gifted writer to make a song this old feel this beauti- fully new. What's startling about this sharply written, cleverly reimagined, enormously promising debut novel from Madeline Miller is how fresh and moving her take on the tale is--how she has managed to bring Achilles and his companion Patroclus to life in our time without removing them from their own."

NY. Harper Collins. 2012. 426p. USED BOOK. CONTAINS MARK-UP