Pickle the Spy; Or, the Incognito of Prince Charles By: Andrew Lang (1844-1912)
Pickle the Spy; Or, the Incognito of Prince Charles by Andrew Lang is a captivating historical novel that takes readers on a thrilling adventure through 18th-century Europe. Set during the tumultuous Jacobite Rebellion, the book expertly weaves together fact and fiction to create a fast-paced narrative that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. The story revolves around a young Scottish spy named Pickle, who finds himself entangled in a web of political intrigue and danger. Working undercover, Pickle infiltrates the highest echelons of society to gather secret information for the Jacobite cause. As he carries out his mission, Pickle must navigate treacherous relationships, double-crossing allies, and the constant threat of betrayal. One of the strongest aspects of the book is its historical accuracy. Andrew Lang's meticulous research is evident throughout as he brings the 18th-century world to life, vividly portraying the political climate and the tensions between the Jacobites and the British crown. Through the eyes of Pickle, readers are transported to the courts of European monarchs, the battlegrounds of Scotland, and the dangerous back alleys of London. The character development in Pickle the Spy is impressive. Pickle himself is a multifaceted protagonist, portrayed as both cunning and sympathetic. His internal conflicts as he grapples with his loyalty to the Jacobites and his own personal aspirations add depth and complexity to the narrative. Lang also introduces a host of intriguing supporting characters, each with their own motivations and alliances, which adds to the richness of the story. The pacing of the novel is relentless, never allowing readers a moment to catch their breath. Each chapter is filled with suspense, as Pickle finds himself constantly tested and facing new challenges. The plot twists are cleverly executed and keep readers guessing until the very end. Lang's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story and invested in the characters' fates. My only minor complaint about the book is that at times, the dense historical details may be overwhelming for readers who are less familiar with the Jacobite Rebellion and its key players. However, Lang's storytelling abilities ultimately make up for this, ensuring that even those with limited knowledge of the period can enjoy the novel. Overall, Pickle the Spy; Or, the Incognito of Prince Charles is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, particularly those interested in 18th-century Europe. Andrew Lang's impeccable research, compelling characters, and thrilling plot combine to create an unforgettable reading experience. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an immersive, adventure-packed journey into the past. First Page: PICKLE THE SPY or The Incognito of Prince Charles 'I knew the Master: on many secret steps of his career I have an authentic memoir in my hand.' THE MASTER OF BALLANTRAE PREFACE This woful History began in my study of the Pelham Papers in the Additional Manuscripts of the British Museum. These include the letters of Pickle the Spy and of JAMES MOHR MACGREGOR. Transcripts of them were sent by me to Mr. ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON, for use in a novel, which he did not live to finish. The character of Pickle, indeed, like that of the Master of Ballantrae, is alluring to writers of historical romance. Resisting the temptation to use Pickle as the villain of fiction, I have tried to tell his story with fidelity. The secret, so long kept, of Prince Charles's incognito, is divulged no less by his own correspondence in the Stuart MSS. than by the letters of Pickle. For Her Majesty's gracious permission to read the Stuart Papers in the library of Windsor Castle, and to engrave a miniature of Prince Charles in the Royal collection, I have respectfully to express my sincerest gratitude. To Mr. HOLMES, Her Majesty's librarian, I owe much kind and valuable aid. The Pickle Papers, and many despatches in the State Papers, were examined and copied for me by Miss E. A. IBBS. In studying the Stuart Papers, I owe much to the aid of Miss VIOLET SIMPSON, who has also assisted me by verifying references from many sources... Continue reading book >>

Pickle the Spy; Or, the Incognito of Prince Charles By: Andrew Lang (1844-1912)

Pickle the Spy; Or, the Incognito of Prince Charles by Andrew Lang is a captivating historical novel that takes readers on a thrilling adventure through 18th-century Europe. Set during the tumultuous Jacobite Rebellion, the book expertly weaves together fact and fiction to create a fast-paced narrative that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

The story revolves around a young Scottish spy named Pickle, who finds himself entangled in a web of political intrigue and danger. Working undercover, Pickle infiltrates the highest echelons of society to gather secret information for the Jacobite cause. As he carries out his mission, Pickle must navigate treacherous relationships, double-crossing allies, and the constant threat of betrayal.

One of the strongest aspects of the book is its historical accuracy. Andrew Lang's meticulous research is evident throughout as he brings the 18th-century world to life, vividly portraying the political climate and the tensions between the Jacobites and the British crown. Through the eyes of Pickle, readers are transported to the courts of European monarchs, the battlegrounds of Scotland, and the dangerous back alleys of London.

The character development in Pickle the Spy is impressive. Pickle himself is a multifaceted protagonist, portrayed as both cunning and sympathetic. His internal conflicts as he grapples with his loyalty to the Jacobites and his own personal aspirations add depth and complexity to the narrative. Lang also introduces a host of intriguing supporting characters, each with their own motivations and alliances, which adds to the richness of the story.

The pacing of the novel is relentless, never allowing readers a moment to catch their breath. Each chapter is filled with suspense, as Pickle finds himself constantly tested and facing new challenges. The plot twists are cleverly executed and keep readers guessing until the very end. Lang's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story and invested in the characters' fates.

My only minor complaint about the book is that at times, the dense historical details may be overwhelming for readers who are less familiar with the Jacobite Rebellion and its key players. However, Lang's storytelling abilities ultimately make up for this, ensuring that even those with limited knowledge of the period can enjoy the novel.

Overall, Pickle the Spy; Or, the Incognito of Prince Charles is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, particularly those interested in 18th-century Europe. Andrew Lang's impeccable research, compelling characters, and thrilling plot combine to create an unforgettable reading experience. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an immersive, adventure-packed journey into the past.

First Page:

PICKLE THE SPY or The Incognito of Prince Charles

'I knew the Master: on many secret steps of his career I have an authentic memoir in my hand.' THE MASTER OF BALLANTRAE

PREFACE

This woful History began in my study of the Pelham Papers in the Additional Manuscripts of the British Museum. These include the letters of Pickle the Spy and of JAMES MOHR MACGREGOR. Transcripts of them were sent by me to Mr. ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON, for use in a novel, which he did not live to finish. The character of Pickle, indeed, like that of the Master of Ballantrae, is alluring to writers of historical romance. Resisting the temptation to use Pickle as the villain of fiction, I have tried to tell his story with fidelity. The secret, so long kept, of Prince Charles's incognito, is divulged no less by his own correspondence in the Stuart MSS. than by the letters of Pickle.

For Her Majesty's gracious permission to read the Stuart Papers in the library of Windsor Castle, and to engrave a miniature of Prince Charles in the Royal collection, I have respectfully to express my sincerest gratitude.

To Mr. HOLMES, Her Majesty's librarian, I owe much kind and valuable aid.

The Pickle Papers, and many despatches in the State Papers, were examined and copied for me by Miss E. A. IBBS.

In studying the Stuart Papers, I owe much to the aid of Miss VIOLET SIMPSON, who has also assisted me by verifying references from many sources... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
History
War stories

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Wikipedia – Andrew Lang
Wikipedia – Pickle the Spy; Or, the Incognito of Prince Charles

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