Description

The Bowen-Merrill Company [Published Date: 1902]. Hard cover, 466 pp., plus 15 pages of ads for other books. "October" on copyright page with no additional printings listed. Acceptable+/ NO dust jacket. Green illustrated cloth covered boards with gold letting and illustration on front and spine. Light nicking and fraying to cloth at corner tips and top and bottom of spine. Light overall scuffing, fading and soiling to covers with heavier rubbing and soiling along spine. Binding tight. A few small letters "Uka Pes" in top corner of rear paste-down. Otherwise, pages are lightly aged but unmarked with occasional light corner creasing. NOT Ex-Library. Black and white illustrations by Harrison Fisher (1875 - 1934). Set in 18th century Europe, Francezka follows the life of Francezka Capello, a young woman whose fate is intertwined with the military campaigns and political intrigues of the era. The story is narrated by the confidential secretary of Count Saxe, the son of the King of Poland, who initially aims to chronicle the exploits of his master. However, the narrative quickly shifts focus to Francezka, whose eventful life and romantic struggles form the true heart of the novel. At the center of the plot is the mysterious disappearance of Gaston Cheverny, Francezka's secret husband. His uncanny resemblance to his brother, Regnard Cheverny, leads to a series of complications that drive the novel's intrigue. As Francezka navigates these personal and political upheavals, she matures from a carefree girl into a self-reliant and resolute woman, demonstrating both charm and strength in the face of adversity. The novel is set against the backdrop of the European campaigns of 1726-1741, with much of the action taking place in Paris. Here, Seawell skillfully incorporates historical figures such as Voltaire and Adrienne Lecouvreur, using them to add layers of wit and satire to the narrative. Despite its ultimately somber conclusion, the novel is rich with adventure, drama, and historical detail.