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Jack Sheppard A Romance   By: (1805-1882)

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Jack Sheppard: A Romance by William Harrison Ainsworth is a gripping historical novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the infamous life of the eponymous main character. With intricately woven plotlines, vivid descriptions, and well-developed characters, this book truly captivates from start to finish.

Set in eighteenth-century London, the story revolves around the life of Jack Sheppard, a notorious criminal and legendary escape artist who became a folk hero. Ainsworth's novel is a fictionalized account of Sheppard's life, blending historical facts with his own creative imagination. From the very first page, the reader is transported into the gritty streets of London, where poverty and crime are rampant.

Ainsworth's writing style is richly detailed, offering a vivid depiction of the era. The author meticulously recreates the city, its architecture, and the social dynamics, making the setting itself almost a character in the narrative. The dialogue is also expertly crafted, transporting the reader into the minds of the characters and immersing them in the intricate web of their emotions and motivations.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its characters. Jack Sheppard emerges as a complex, multifaceted individual. While condemned for his criminal actions, his charisma and audaciousness make him a compelling protagonist. As the story progresses, we see a transformation in his character, moving from a young and naive apprentice to a seasoned and calculated mastermind.

The supporting cast is equally well-fleshed out. From the cunning thief-taker Jonathan Wild to the enigmatic and alluring Edgeworth Bess, each character brings a unique dynamic to the narrative. Ainsworth skillfully portrays the complicated relationship between Jack and Bess, their love serving as a driving force throughout the story.

The novel maintains a fast pace, filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists. The intricate descriptions of Jack's daring escapes keep the reader on the edge of their seat, constantly wondering how he will outwit his pursuers. Every chapter unravels a new layer of the plot, keeping the tension high and the curiosity piqued.

While Jack Sheppard: A Romance is a gripping story, there are instances where the prose becomes overly embellished and wordy. Ainsworth's love for historical detail occasionally weighs down the narrative, slowing the pace and diverting attention from the main plotline. However, these moments are minor shortcomings that do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, Jack Sheppard: A Romance is a captivating historical novel that combines elements of adventure, romance, and suspense. Ainsworth's expert storytelling transports readers to a vividly depicted eighteenth-century London and introduces them to a cast of intriguing characters. Despite minor flaws in the pacing and prose, this book promises an immersive and thrilling reading experience for anyone interested in a tale of escapades, love, and the darker side of human nature.

First Page:

Transcribers Note: Obvious typesetter errors from the original corrected in this etext. If they are not obvious errors, they are left as in the original.

Throughout this text you will see words or phrases with (underscore) on either side, such as this . These were in italics in the original, but as ascii does not allow for formatting italics, they have been changed in this version.

English Library

VOL. XII

JACK SHEPPARD A Romance

BY W. Harrison Ainsworth

Internationale Bibliothek G M B H Berlin

1922

"Upon my word, friend," said I, "you have almost made me long to try what a robber I should make." "There is a great art in it, if you did," quoth he. "Ah! but," said I, "there's a great deal in being hanged."

Life and Actions of Guzman d'Alfarache.

Printed In Germany

CONTENTS.

EPOCH THE FIRST, 1703. JONATHAN WILD.

CHAPTER I. The Widow and her Child 1 II. The Old Mint 13 III. The Master of the Mint 28 IV. The Roof and the Window 34 V. The Denunciation 42 VI. The Storm 51 VII. Old London Bridge 63

EPOCH THE SECOND, 1715. THAMES DARRELL.

CHAPTER I. The Idle Apprentice 75 II... Continue reading book >>




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