Athelstane Ford

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26677

Title

Athelstane Ford

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A gripping historical adventure set in 18th-century England and India, Athelstane Ford follows a young man's perilous journey from his Norfolk home to the East Indies. Blending romance, betrayal, and survival, the novel explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and the harsh realities of colonial conflict through the eyes of a protagonist who faces death in a Nabob's prison before finding his way home.

Summary up to 500 words

In Allen Upward's *Athelstane Ford*, the narrative follows the transformative journey of twelve-year-old Athelstane Ford, a boy raised in the quiet, restrictive environment of Brandon Grange in Norfolk. His life shifts dramatically with the return of his cousin, Rupert, a wild and adventurous man recently returned from European wars. Tempted by the promise of a berth on Rupert's ship, the *Fair Maid*, bound for the East Indies, Athelstane flees his father's disapproval to seek the wider world. Upon arriving in India, Athelstane becomes entangled in the treacherous politics of the region and falls deeply in love with Marian Rising, a woman of high standing. Their path leads them to the fortress of Gheriah, where they are captured by the forces of the cruel Nabob, Surajah Dowlah. The situation escalates into a horrific massacre ordered by the Nabob, who, suspicious of the English East India Company's wealth, demands a non-existent treasure and orders the slaughter of prisoners. Athelstane and a handful of survivors endure a night of unimaginable suffering in a suffocating, crowded cell, witnessing the brutal deaths of their companions and fighting desperately to keep Marian alive amidst the chaos. After surviving the massacre and recovering from the resulting fever and trauma, Athelstane is forced to confront the reality of his situation. He recognizes the depth of his own follies and the destructive influence of his passion for Marian, which nearly led to his destruction. He resolves to abandon his reckless ways and seek redemption. The story details his captivity, the vindictive interrogation by Surajah Dowlah, and the eventual release of the survivors. The narrative concludes with Athelstane's return to England, a transformed man who has paid a heavy price for his adventures. He settles into a peaceful life, reconciling with his family and finding solace in the memories of his lost love and the profound lessons learned in the 'Valley of the Shadow of Death.' The novel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of youthful rebellion and the enduring power of conscience.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Adventure