Escosura, Patricio de la
"Ni rey ni roque (3-4 de 4): episodio histórico del reinado de Felipe II, año…" by Don Patricio de la Escosura is a historical novel written in the early 19th century. The story is set during the reign of King Philip II of Spain and appears to revolve around noble families and their intricate personal and political entanglements. Central characters include Vargas, his complicated relationships, the cunning and resourceful Violante, and the mysterious noblewoman Inés, whose life story emerges as a key element. Readers can expect themes of intrigue, love, honor, deception, and the burdens of social expectations in historical Spain. The opening of the novel introduces a backdrop of romantic complications and intrigue. Vargas is absorbed by his love affair with a pastry chef, oblivious to important family events. Meanwhile, Violante, having lost her wealthy lover (the marquis) due to her misconduct, devises an elaborate scheme to secure her future, including feigning piety, securing a pension, and manipulating those around her with assistance from a sympathetic friar, Retamar. Focus soon shifts to Vargas’s brother, Don Juan, who receives a cryptic message leading him to a secretive encounter with Inés, the once-humble pastry chef now revealed as a noblewoman. Inés shares with Don Juan a written account of her family's tragic history, including exile, persecution, hidden marriages, and unfulfilled love, providing a layered introduction to the characters’ emotional and social strug…
These books are free to read. Each is in the public domain in the United States; check your own country's rules before you copy or share one.
