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The Battle of the Strong:A Romance of Two Kingdoms   By: (1862-1932)

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In "The Battle of the Strong: A Romance of Two Kingdoms" by Gilbert Parker, readers are transported to a world filled with political intrigue, heartfelt relationships, and the ever-present struggle for power. Set in the fictional kingdom of Bercy, the author weaves a captivating narrative that explores the conflicts between duty and desire, love and loyalty.

One aspect that stands out in this novel is Parker's ability to create well-rounded and compelling characters. The protagonist, Gaston, is a man torn between two kingdoms, two loves, and two different paths. As readers follow his journey, they are drawn into his internal struggles and can't help but root for him, despite his flaws and the mistakes he makes along the way. His counterpart, the enigmatic Princess Stephanie, adds another layer of complexity to the story as she too navigates her own web of conflicting emotions and obligations.

What makes "The Battle of the Strong" truly engaging is Parker's skillful portrayal of political machinations. The author offers a detailed and intricate examination of the power dynamics not just within Bercy, but also with its neighboring kingdom, Nicaragua. The intricate web of diplomacy, treachery, and negotiation keeps readers on their toes, making it impossible to predict the outcome of the power struggles that unfold.

Moreover, the romance in this novel is beautifully written and adds a layer of emotional depth to an already captivating story. Parker effortlessly captures the intensity of love and the sacrifices one is willing to make for it. The love triangle that involves Gaston, Princess Stephanie, and an extraordinary woman named Madame Bulteel, keeps the readers invested until the very end, leaving them with their hearts torn between conflicting desires.

If there is one criticism that can be made about "The Battle of the Strong," it is that the writing occasionally gets bogged down by extensive details and descriptions. Although these passages provide a vivid backdrop, they can detract from the pacing of the narrative. However, one can argue that this attention to detail is what makes the world of Bercy and the characters come alive, so it is ultimately a matter of personal preference.

Overall, "The Battle of the Strong: A Romance of Two Kingdoms" by Gilbert Parker is a gripping tale that seamlessly combines romance, political intrigue, and conflicting loyalties. With well-developed characters and a vividly portrayed world, Parker successfully transports readers to the heart of a kingdom consumed by power struggles. Despite a few minor flaws, this book is an excellent choice for those who enjoy immersive historical romances with a touch of suspense.

First Page:

THE BATTLE OF THE STRONG, Complete

[A ROMANCE OF TWO KINGDOMS]

By Gilbert Parker

CONTENTS:

THE INVASION

ELEVEN YEARS AFTER ELEVEN YEARS AFTER

IN FRANCE NEAR FIVE MONTHS AFTER

IN JERSEY FIVE YEARS LATER IN JERSEY FIVE YEARS LATER

DURING ONE YEAR LATER DURING ONE YEAR LATER

IN JERSEY A YEAR LATER

INTRODUCTION

This book is a protest and a deliverance. For seven years I had written continuously of Canada, though some short stories of South Sea life, and the novel Mrs. Falchion, had, during that time, issued from my pen. It looked as though I should be writing of the Far North all my life. Editors had begun to take that view; but from the start it had never been my view. Even when writing Pierre and His People I was determined that I should not be cabined, cribbed, and confined in one field; that I should not, as some other men have done, wind in upon myself, until at last each succeeding book would be but a variation of some previous book, and I should end by imitating myself, become the sacrifice to the god of the pin hole.

I was warned not to break away from Canada; but all my life I had been warned, and all my life I had followed my own convictions. I would rather not have written another word than be corralled, bitted, saddled, and ridden by that heartless broncho buster, the public, which wants a man who has once pleased it, to do the same thing under the fret of whip and spur for ever... Continue reading book >>




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