Results: 70819 books
Sort By:
NewTrending

Lucretia — Volume 06

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Lucretia — Volume 06" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton is a novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The narrative delves into the intricate life of Lucretia, a complex character marked by her ambitions and vengeful spirit, particularly following the death of Dalibard, who once overshadowed her desires. The story unfolds as Lucretia navigates her relationships with William Mainwaring, who is engulfed in his growing aspirations, and his wife Susan, against a backdrop of betrayal and moral decay. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to a retrospective view of Lucretia’s life after Dalibard's death, touching on her widowhood and the emotional aftermath of this loss. Her visit to the Mainwarings conveys a mixture of warmth and underlying tension, revealing Lucretia's manipulation of William's ambitions while subtly undermining his relationship with Susan. The opening chapters expose Lucretia’s cold, calculating nature as she exerts influence over William, leading him into unscrupulous financial ventures that ultimately result in his downfall. The groundwork is laid for a tale rich with themes of ambition, revenge, and moral corruption as Lucretia seeks to reclaim power and a sense of belonging in a world that has repeatedly cast her aside. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Lucretia — Volume 05

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Lucretia — Volume 05" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The story unfolds against a backdrop of intrigue and moral complexity, centering on several characters, including the opportunistic Nicholas Grabman, the devoted sweep Beck, and the enigmatic Lucretia, whose past and current actions weave through the fabric of the narrative. The book navigates themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of one's desires and ambitions. At the start of the novel, we see a glimpse into the lives of the main characters, particularly the troubled relationship between Grabman and Beck. Grabman's intentions appear dubious as he prepares to leave for the country, likely planning a secretive act against Beck, who has served him faithfully despite his unfortunate living conditions. The opening further sets the tone for the larger conflicts to emerge, highlighting the juxtaposition of human kindness and harshness, with Grabman's greed laid bare as he contemplates stealing from the impoverished Beck. This intricate initiation hints at deeper moral questions and relational dynamics that will unfold throughout the book. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Lucretia — Volume 04

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Lucretia — Volume 04" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a fictional novel likely written in the early 19th century. The story navigates through themes of love, ambition, and societal aspirations, setting a dramatic tone against a backdrop of personal and familial turmoil. Central characters introduced include Percival St. John, a young man with noble ambitions, Helen Mainwaring, the object of his affections, and John Ardworth, who embodies a more tragic pursuit of purpose and potential. The beginning of the novel introduces several key elements that will shape the narrative. We see the melancholic reflection of Charles Vernon’s widow, who mourns the loss of her husband and children while contemplating the changes in her life. Meanwhile, Helen, described as innocent and impressionable, is introduced through her interaction with her guardian, Mr. Fielden. The opening scenes not only highlight the contrasting lives of the social elite with the less fortunate, including the sweeper Beck, but also set the stage for the central romantic tension when Percival St. John becomes enchanted by Helen. Their innocence and budding affection juxtaposed with the darker undertones of ambition, societal pressures, and personal loss foreshadow a complex tale that intertwines romance with the harsher realities of life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Lucretia — Volume 03

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Lucretia — Volume 03" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a dramatic novel likely written during the early 19th century. The narrative unfolds the tumultuous life of Lucretia, who navigates through betrayal, ambition, and the depths of personal despair, particularly after the revelation of her lover's affections for her sister, Susan. The story tantalizingly examines themes of love, manipulation, and the complexity of human relationships against a backdrop of societal expectations. At the start of the book, the characters are introduced in a critical moment where Lucretia learns of her lover Mainwaring's feelings for her sister Susan. This revelation sparks a whirlwind of emotions, leading her to confront her despair and the looming question of trust in those around her. As she grapples with the dire news, she is guided by Dalibard, a mysterious figure with his own agenda, who encourages her to learn the truth about the situation. The tension mounts as Lucretia faces the potential ruin of her self-worth and future, setting the stage for a story rich in psychological conflict and moral dilemmas. Throughout this opening portion, the emotional stakes are heightened, drawing readers into Lucretia's inner turmoil and the external challenges that threaten to engulf her. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Lucretia — Volume 02

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Lucretia — Volume 02" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel written during the mid-19th century. The story unfolds around the life of Lucretia Clavering, set against a backdrop of familial intrigue, social expectations, and personal ambition, as she navigates her relationships with various characters, including Sir Miles, Ardworth, and Vernon. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to a day in the life of Sir Miles, who is preparing for an audience with young Ardworth, presenting a formal yet cordial demeanor. Ardworth expresses his desire to join the army, revealing his aspirations amidst conversations about social expectations and family legacies. The narrative also foreshadows Lucretia's tumultuous feelings, particularly in her interactions with Mainwaring, underscoring the themes of love and betrayal as secrets and ambitions play a central role in the lives of the characters. As the plot develops, the tension between personal desires and societal obligations becomes increasingly pronounced, setting the stage for the impending conflicts that will shape their fates. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Lucretia — Volume 01

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Lucretia — Volume 01" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel written during the mid-19th century. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, social status, and the complexities of human nature, particularly as they relate to personal relationships and moral dilemmas. Central to the story are Lucretia Clavering and her interactions with her uncle, Sir Miles St. John, and the young man, William Mainwaring, who finds himself drawn to her despite the complications of their differing social standings. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to a man during the Reign of Terror in Paris who is both sinister and protective of a young boy, whom he is about to present to a spectacle of execution. This chilling opening sets the tone for a story that appears to intertwine the themes of brutality and innocence. The scene shifts to a picturesque manor house in England, where Lucretia, a strong-willed young woman, is the focus of her uncle's expectations and ambitions for the family. In her discussions with Mainwaring, who grapples with feelings for both Lucretia and her half-sister Susan, the tensions of love, ambition, and societal expectations emerge, hinting at the complex fabric of relationships that will characterize the evolving narrative. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Complete

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Complete" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical romance written during the mid-19th century. The narrative is centered around the life and times of Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, delving into the impending Norman Conquest and its far-reaching implications. The text explores themes of national identity, power struggles, and personal relationships against the background of a transformative epoch in English history. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to the vibrant and festive atmosphere of May Day in 1052, as young folk celebrate the arrival of summer with joy and merriment. The scene quickly shifts focus to Hilda, a powerful and enigmatic figure rumored to engage in witchcraft, and her granddaughter Edith, a beautiful young maiden torn between their pagan heritage and the encroaching Christian faith. Hilda hints at the fateful connection between Edith and Harold Godwinson, setting up a narrative that intertwines their destinies. As the intrigue unfolds, we see political tensions brewing, particularly surrounding the outlawed Earl Godwin and the complex relationships between Saxons and Normans, preparing the reader for a story steeped in loyalty, ambition, and foreboding as they venture closer towards the monumental Field of Hastings. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 12

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 12" by Lytton is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the Battle of Hastings, a pivotal event in English history, and centers around the lives and struggles of key characters, notably Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England. The opening chapters explore themes of fate, loyalty, loss, and the conflict between pagan and Christian beliefs as characters navigate a world on the brink of upheaval. The beginning of the story introduces us to Hilda, a prophetess, who is consumed by sorrow for the fate of her granddaughter, Edith, and for Harold, as tension mounts in the kingdom. As Hilda reflects near a melancholic pool in a dark forest, a mysterious witch appears, urging Hilda to craft a powerful banner for King Harold as a gift for his union with Edith. The narrative then shifts to King Harold and his council in Westminster, where they discuss the imminent invasion by William of Normandy. The conflicts and debates among the characters reveal their respective motivations, fears, and the political landscape leading up to the battle, setting the stage for the dramatic confrontation that shapes the future of England. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 11

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 11" by Lytton is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The book centers on the pivotal events surrounding the reign of King Harold II of England during the tumultuous period leading up to the Norman Conquest. The narrative begins with the impending death of King Edward the Confessor and the consequential power struggle among the nobles, specifically focusing on Harold, his ascension to the throne, and the brewing conflict with Duke William of Normandy. The opening of the novel depicts the tense atmosphere in the palace as those awaiting news of the dying king speculate on the succession. Key figures such as Harold, Edith (the King's lady), and church leaders gather as Edward's health declines. The moment is charged with anxiety not only about Edward's passing but also about the legitimacy of Harold's claim to the throne in the face of William's ambitions. As Edward dies, he seemingly endorses Harold as his successor, setting the stage for political intrigue. The opening efficiently establishes the themes of power, loyalty, and impending conflict, laying a foundation for the ensuing historical drama that lingers throughout the narrative. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 10

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 10" by Lytton is a historical novel likely written during the late 19th century. The narrative follows Harold, the Earl, as he grapples with the political turmoil and personal conflicts emerging in England during a crucial time in its history, focusing particularly on his interactions with significant characters like Bishop Alred and King Edward. The tale explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the weight of oaths in a time of impending war and shifting allegiances. The opening of the book establishes a tense atmosphere as Harold returns to England amidst an unsettled political landscape, deeply troubled by the ramifications of an oath he feels bound to fulfill. He seeks absolution from Bishop Alred, who understands the nuances of Harold's predicament and ultimately supports his decision to prioritize the welfare of England over his oath to William. As Harold prepares for the pressures of leadership, the gathering storm of rebellion from the Northumbria—led by Edwin and Morcar—poises him for a defining moment. The complexity of his relationships, particularly with family members like Tostig and his allies, sets the stage for a gripping saga of power struggles, loyalty, and the quest for justice amid the looming threat of Norman conquest. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 09

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 09" by Lytton is a historical novel likely written during the late 19th century. It explores the tensions and complexities surrounding the pivotal moments leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, focusing primarily on Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king. The narrative delves into themes of power, loyalty, and the clash of cultures as Harold grapples with his ambitions and the duplicity of the Norman prince, William the Conqueror. The story unfolds with Harold's entanglement in political intrigue after he is captured by William's vassal, Count Guy. Forced to navigate a web of deceit and manipulation, Harold is both a noble warrior and a potential pawn in William's ambitions for the English throne. As he forms awkward alliances and faces moral challenges, Harold struggles between his love for England and the obligations thrust upon him by the Norman court. The relationship between Harold and William fluctuates from cautious camaraderie to simmering rivalry, ultimately culminating in a dangerous oath binding Harold to William's nefarious plans. The novel paints a vivid picture of the historical context, character motivations, and the looming threat of conquest that hangs over Harold's fate and the future of England. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 08

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 08" by Lytton is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. This book is part of a series that explores the life of Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, during a tumultuous time marked by political intrigue, warfare, and the impending Norman conquest. The narrative captures the complexities of Harold's character, his ambitions, and the relationships that shape his destiny. In this volume, we follow Harold as he navigates significant personal and political challenges after the death of his rival, Algar. He grapples with his feelings for the widowed Queen Aldyth and his desire to secure peace for England while managing the demands of family loyalty and the intrigues of the Norman court. As he prepares to travel to Normandy, Harold faces prophetic visions and ominous warnings regarding his future, raising questions about fate, ambition, and the consequences of his choices. Ultimately, the story reflects on the interplay between destiny and freewill as Harold aims to unite his lands and pursue his goals in a time when England stands on the brink of monumental change. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 07

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 07" by Lytton is a historical novel likely written during the Victorian era. The narrative focuses on the tumultuous period of the Saxon kings in England, particularly centered around the character of Earl Harold, who faces both personal and national turmoil as rival factions and invaders threaten his land. The story paints a vivid picture of historical events, rich in detail regarding the cultural and military struggles of the time. The book follows Harold as he grapples with the loss of his beloved brother Sweyn and the impending conflict with the Welsh King Gryffyth. Tension rises as the Saxons fortify their positions against Welsh assaults, and amidst battles and betrayals, Harold struggles to maintain order and integrity in a time of chaos. As a diplomatic envoy, the Norman knight Mallet de Graville attempts to navigate the intrigues between Saxons and Welsh, bringing hope as well as additional layers of conflict. The climax of the story arrives when Gryffyth defiantly refuses to submit to Harold's offer of peace, leading to a brutal finale where divisions among the Welsh chiefs surface, culminating in the tragic end of Gryffyth. This tale not only delves into themes of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice but also highlights the complexities of leadership in a fractured world. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 06

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 06" by Lytton is a historical novel written during the Victorian era. The book revolves around the historical figure of Harold Godwinson, the last King of England before the Norman Conquest, exploring themes of ambition, loyalty, and the sociopolitical landscape of medieval England. It vividly depicts the tensions and conflicts during the reign of King Edward and the implications of Harold’s rise as a contender for the throne amid the return of the Atheling Edward and various other political machinations. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a nation in turmoil, with Harold maneuvering through challenges posed by friends and foes alike. After the arrival of the Atheling, Harold's ambitions grow, but he faces opposition from figures like Algar and Gryffyth, who threaten the stability of England. The storyline is rich with character dynamics, particularly focusing on Harold's relationship with Edith, his motivations for power, and the moral dilemmas he must navigate. As battles loom and alliances shift, the novel captures the tension and drama of a pivotal moment in English history, emphasizing Harold's internal struggles and the consequences of ambition in a dangerous and divided land. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 05

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 05" by Lytton is a historical novel written during the Victorian era, a period noted for its rich literary output. This volume explores themes of love, ambition, and the turbulence of political power during the reign of King Edward the Confessor. The narrative delves into the life of Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, as it captures the monumental conflict of a kingdom on the brink of change, fraught with both personal and political challenges. The story follows Harold as he navigates his responsibilities as a nobleman, the pressures of familial loyalty, and his deep love for Edith, a woman torn between her affections and religious obligations. As Harold faces the looming threat from foreign powers and the divisions within his own family, tensions rise with his brother Tostig and the challenges posed by rival claimants to the throne. The book weaves together Harold's aspirations for unity and strength in England, his struggles with fate as foretold by the enigmatic figure Hilda, and his passionate connection with Edith, ultimately setting the stage for high-stakes confrontations in a kingdom poised for destiny. As events unfold, the narrative highlights the interplay of fate, personal sacrifice, and the hoped-for revival of Saxon legacy amidst a shifting landscape. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 04

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 04" by Lytton is a historical novel written in the 19th century, likely during the Victorian era. The book delves into the life of Harold Godwinson, the last Saxon king of England, exploring the intricacies of his lineage, political maneuvers, and personal dilemmas in the context of the historic struggle and transition between Saxon and Norman rule. It weaves themes of ambition, love, and cultural conflict against the backdrop of a pivotal time in British history. In this volume, Harold is portrayed as a man caught between his noble heritage and the demands of leadership during a time of political upheaval. The narrative follows his complicated relationships with his family, including his mother, Githa, and his brothers, as well as the broader socio-political landscape marked by alliances and rivalries, particularly with the Norman Duke, William. Central to the plot is Harold's love for Edith, which is hampered by their kinship, causing Harold to grapple with personal sacrifice for the sake of duty and national integrity. As tensions rise leading to the inevitable clash with the Normans, Harold must navigate a treacherous path of loyalty, ambition, and the haunting specter of destiny that looms over his every decision. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 03

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 03" by Lytton is a historical novel written in the late 19th century, specifically during the Victorian era. This volume navigates the tumultuous period leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, primarily focused on the political and personal rivalries surrounding Harold Godwinson, the last Saxon king. The book explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the clash between Norman and Anglo-Saxon cultures as tensions rise in the kingdom. The narrative centers on Earl Godwin and his sons, especially Harold, as they navigate a fractured realm plagued by civil strife and foreign threats. Following Godwin's return from exile, the tension between the Saxons and Normans heightens, culminating in dramatic confrontations where personal ambitions collide with the fate of the kingdom. Characters like Siward of Northumbria and Tostig, along with the enigmatic figure of the Vala Hilda, add depth to the political intrigue, illustrating the intricacies of power and loyalty during this pivotal era. The story captures the urgency and stakes of the era, as Harold strives to unite the Saxon people against their Norman adversaries, while internal family conflicts and external pressures threaten to unravel everything they hold dear. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 02

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 02" by Lytton is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The book depicts the political and social dynamics of England during the time of King Edward the Confessor and the looming conflict between the Normans and the Anglo-Saxons. It delves into themes of loyalty, ambition, and the struggle for power as England faces the influence of outside forces and internal dissent. In this volume, the narrative unfolds through a series of feasts and gatherings that reveal the intricate relationships among key figures, such as Duke William of Normandy, the cleric Lanfranc, and the Saxon nobles. Following a lavish royal banquet fraught with tension, the arrival of two unexpected guests stirs unrest within the hall. As Duke William grapples with impending threats from rebels and conflicts regarding his marriage to Matilda of Flanders, Lanfranc emerges as a pivotal figure, advocating for the Duke's ambitions and the political stability of Normandy. The presence of Harold, the outlaw and son of Godwin, looms over the narrative, acting as a symbol of native resistance against the encroaching Norman power, shaping the conflict that will define England's future. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Harold : the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 01

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"Harold: the Last of the Saxon Kings — Volume 01" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical novel written during the mid-19th century. The narrative is set around the significant events of the Norman Conquest of England, particularly focusing on Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king, alongside Hilda, a heathen prophetess, and her granddaughter, Edith. The storyline explores themes like loyalty, power struggles, and the collision of cultures through its rich historical context. At the start of the novel, merry festivities mark the arrival of May, highlighting the joy and vibrancy of Saxon life through celebrations and customs. The scene shifts to Hilda's home, where she, described as a powerful figure with a mysterious aura, grapples with her feelings towards the Earl and the changing political landscape. As Hilda anticipates conflict and fate’s intertwining with her granddaughter Edith's life, Norman Duke William and King Edward arrive, unveiling tensions between their foreign reign and the loyal Saxons. Through rich descriptions and character interactions, the opening establishes an atmosphere of cultural conflict and foreshadows the pending struggles of the Saxon people as they face impending Norman conquest. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

What Will He Do with It? — Complete

Baron Lytton, Edward Bulwer Lytton

"What Will He Do with It? — Complete" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel that likely dates back to the mid-19th century, characterized by its exploration of social manners and human relationships. The narrative is set against the backdrop of a vibrant summer fair in a picturesque Surrey village, where a variety of colorful characters are introduced, including two young friends, Lionel and Vance, who are navigating themes of innocence, artistic ambition, and the complexities of society. At the start of the story, the reader is immersed in a lively celebration, filled with booths, musicians, and amusing performers. The two young gentlemen take center stage, with Lionel presented as a handsome, spirited young man who exhibits a natural charm, while Vance, his more observant companion, engages in witty banter. Their interactions also introduce a deeper discussion on the social dynamics of tradesmen and the class distinctions in their surroundings. The opening sets the stage for further developments involving a captivating little girl and her grandfather, whose intriguing past hints at both struggle and artistry, suggesting themes of identity and the search for purpose as the story unfolds. (This is an automatically generated summary.)