Colonel Quaritch, V.C.: A Tale of Country Life

Description

When H. Rider Haggard finished his series of four highly successful consecutive novels, culminating with works such as Allan Quatermain and the seminal fantasy She, he wanted to change to a slightly less dynamic pace, while presenting a new novel that would only introduce realistic, believable elements and stories based in England. Thus, Colonel Quaritch, V.C.: A Tale of Country Life was born.

The novel is quite unique, and came as a surprisingly enjoyable novelty in H. Rider Haggar’s renewed portfolio. First published in 1888, it tells a more realistic, down to Earth tale that introduces us to retired Army officer Harold Quaritch, who moves into the home of his deceased aunt, oblivious to the curious, often humorous events that go on in the background of the village’s social landscape.

Quaritch becomes involved with Ida, who plays a crucial role in the plans of Edward Cossey, a banker interested in marrying her. What makes matters worse is that her father’s house is about to be foreclosed, and Cossey’s conniving strategies also include his affair with the wife of a cunning attorney.

Probably one of the most complicated plots you may have seen staged in a location as small as the village of Honham, the story behind Colonel Quaritch, V.C. is quite entertaining and droll in its humorous intensity – a factor further amplified by the fascinatingly realistic, as well as hilarious nature of some (or most) of the characters involved in the novel.

You probably will not be able to find a book quite as entertaining that includes Haggard’s unmistakable style and skill, while introducing no elements of fantasy and magic whatsoever. Although not one of his most “conventional” works, Colonel Quaritch, V.C. is undoubtedly one of H. Rider Haggard’s most well-received and critically acclaimed works of classical literature.
[amz_corss_sell asin=”177542751X”]