'The Young Pretenders' Summary

The Young Pretenders is a historical novel by Edith Henrietta Fowler that tells the story of two young men who claim to be the rightful heirs to the British throne. The first, Prince Charles Edward Stuart, is the grandson of King James II, who was deposed in the Glorious Revolution of 1688. The second, James Francis Edward Stuart, is the son of Prince Charles Edward Stuart.

The two young men lead a series of rebellions against the British government in an attempt to restore the Stuart monarchy. However, they are ultimately unsuccessful, and they are forced to flee into exile.

The novel begins with Prince Charles Edward Stuart arriving in Scotland in 1745, hoping to raise an army and overthrow the Hanoverian monarchy. He is joined by his loyal followers, including the Highland clans, and they quickly gather a large force.

The Jacobites, as the rebels were known, march south into England, hoping to capture London and force King George II to abdicate. However, they are met by the British army at the Battle of Culloden in 1746, and they are defeated.

Prince Charles Edward Stuart escapes the battle and flees to France, where he lives in exile for the rest of his life. His son, James Francis Edward Stuart, also known as the Old Pretender, makes several attempts to regain the throne, but he is unsuccessful.

The Young Pretenders is a fascinating and well-written novel that tells the story of a turbulent period in British history. It is a story of ambition, betrayal, and the struggle for power. The novel also explores the themes of nationalism, religion, and the importance of family.

Fowler does an excellent job of bringing the characters to life. Prince Charles Edward Stuart is a charismatic and flawed figure, while James Francis Edward Stuart is a more cautious and calculating individual. The novel also features a strong cast of supporting characters, including Flora MacDonald, who helps Prince Charles Edward Stuart escape after the Battle of Culloden.

The Young Pretenders is a historical novel that is both entertaining and informative. It is a must-read for anyone interested in British history or the Stuarts.