The Restless Republic by Anna Keay delves into the tumultuous period of British history known as the Interregnum, where the nation was governed without a king. Through the stories of diverse figures such as John Bradshaw, Gerrard Winstanley, and Marchamont Nedham, Keay vividly portrays the era's political, social, and intellectual innovations. The book challenges common misconceptions about this period, highlighting its significance in British history.
This novel tells the true story of the French officer Georges Picquart from 1896 to 1906, as he struggles to expose the truth about the doctored evidence that sent Alfred Dreyfus to Devil's Island. Picquart, initially convinced of Dreyfus's guilt, discovers that the military and government had doctored the evidence. Despite warnings from his superiors, Picquart persists in his investigation, risking his career and life to free an innocent man and expose a real spy operating within the military. The book is a compelling historical novel and spy thriller that portrays principled actions in the face of injustice and corruption.
Robert Harris's "Act of Oblivion" delves into the dramatic escape of two regicides, who signed King Charles I's death warrant, to America after the Restoration. The novel masterfully portrays their perilous journey, their struggles to evade capture, and their eventual integration into the Puritan community. It explores themes of justice, revenge, and the complexities of historical memory. The narrative highlights the changing perceptions of the regicides over time, from hunted fugitives to symbols of American revolutionary spirit. Harris's meticulous research and compelling storytelling bring this fascinating historical episode to life.
Set in 1964 in a world where the Axis powers won World War II, 'Fatherland' by Robert Harris is an alternative history detective novel. The story follows Xavier March, a detective in the Kriminalpolizei (Kripo), as he investigates the murder of Josef Bühler, a high-ranking Nazi official involved in the Wannsee Conference. As March delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a conspiracy involving senior Nazi Party officials and discovers evidence of the Holocaust. The novel explores the dark and oppressive atmosphere of a totalitarian Nazi regime and the personal risks March and his American journalist ally, Charlotte 'Charlie' Maguire, take to expose the truth[1][4][5].
The Ruin of All Witches by Malcolm Gaskill is a riveting micro-history that explores a witch hunt in Springfield, Massachusetts, during the 17th century. The book delves into the psychological and social factors that led to the accusations against Hugh and Mary Parsons, highlighting how fear, isolation, and societal pressures contributed to the tragic events.
Enigma by Robert Harris is a gripping historical thriller that delves into the world of codebreaking during World War II. The story follows Tom Jericho, a brilliant mathematician at Bletchley Park, as he navigates the intense pressure of cracking the Enigma code while dealing with personal mysteries and potential betrayal within his team. The novel combines historical accuracy with a compelling narrative of espionage and personal intrigue.
In this action-packed true story, Charles Spencer recounts the epic adventure of King Charles II's escape from England following his defeat at the Battle of Worcester. Using extensive archive material, including Samuel Pepys's account, Spencer details Charles's daring journey, which involved disguises, deception, and good fortune. The book provides a well-researched and thrilling narrative of one of history's most famous escapes.
In 'Killers of the King', Charles Spencer explores the lesser-known stories of the regicides who signed Charles I's death warrant. The book delves into their lives during the English Civil War, the Interregnum under Oliver Cromwell, and the brutal vengeance they faced after the Restoration of Charles II. Spencer vividly recounts the executions, escapes, and betrayals that defined this tumultuous period in British history.
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Robert Harris is one of the great storytellers of our times. His novels explore the dark side of power and the corrosive effect it has on those who wield it. In his latest bestseller, Act of Oblivion, Harris turns his attention to one of the most divisive episodes in English history, the Civil War, in which Royalists and Parliamentarians fought to determine whether the country should be a republic or a monarchy. The novel follows two fugitives who have been found guilty in absentia for the murder of Charles I and have fled to colonial North America to hide among the Puritan settlers there. Richard Nayler, secretary of the regicide committee of the Privy Council, is tasked with tracking down the fugitives and he’ll stop at nothing until the two men are brought to justice. Hosting the discussion is award-winning author and historian Jessie Childs.
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