Historical Fiction with a Theatrical Setting
Explore captivating historical fiction books set in the theatrical world. Discover novels filled with drama, intrigue, and rich period details that bring the stage to life.
Book
Life Mask
by Emma Donoghue
In a tale set against a backdrop of revolution-imminent eighteenth-century England, the eccentric widow Mrs. Damer works as the period's only woman sculptor, the horse race innovator Lord Derby endures public mockery in spite of his wealth, and a Drury Lane actress endeavors to gain entry into aristocratic circles. By the author of Slammerkin. Reader's Guide available. Reprint.
Book
All for Love
by Amanda Elyot
A fictional portrait of eighteenth-century British actress Mary Robinson follows her life from the harsh poverty of debtors' prison, to the glamour, success, and scandal of the London stage, to her shocking public affair with the Prince of Wales, to her subsequent career as a poet, novelist, and ardent supporter of women's rights. By the author of Too Great a Lady. Original.
Book
The Players
by Stephanie Cowell
Presents a historical novel drawn from extensive research that traces the young Will's involvement in a tempestuous love triangle involving a lord and a mistress
Book
The King's Favorite
by Susan Holloway Scott
The acclaimed author of Duchess and Royal Harlot returns with the unforgettable story of a king's last love and London's darling? BRNell Gwyn has never been a lady, nor does she pretend to be. Blessed with impudent wit and saucy beauty, she swiftly rises from the poverty of Covent Garden to become a sensation in the theater. Still in her teens, she catches the eye of King Charles II, and trades the stage for Whitehall Palace-and the role of royal mistress. Even though she delights the king, she must learn to negotiate the cutthroat royal court, where ambition and lust for power rule the hearts of all around her. For beneath her charm and light-heartedness, Nell has her own ambition-to become no less than the king's favorite.
Book
Invitation To A Funeral
by Molly Brown
Lady playwright Aphra Behn investigates a double murder in 17th century England. It is Restoration time, the country emerging from Puritan dictatorship, court intrigues abound and the theater is famous for irreverent wit.
