Friends, though divided: A Tale of the Civil War

by G.A. Henty

This two-heroed tale is about Harry Furness, a Cavalier, and Herbert Rippinghall, a Roundhead. How will these two young lads remain true to their conscience and still remain friends in a turbulent, troubled time?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, War, Classics, Adventure, Civil War, Literature

296 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1883

About the author

George Alfred Henty, better known as G.A. Henty, began his storytelling career with his own children. After dinner, he would spend and hour or two in telling them a story that would continue the next day. Some stories took weeks! A friend was present one day and watched the spell-bound reaction of his children suggesting Henty write down his stories so others could enjoy them. He did. Henty wrote approximately 144 books in addition to stories for magazines and was known as "The Prince of Story-Tellers" and "The Boy's Own Historian." One of Mr. Henty's secretaries reported that he would quickly pace back and forth in his study dictating stories as fast as the secretary could record them.

Henty's stories revolve around fictional boy heroes during fascinating periods of history. His heroes are diligent, intelligent, and dedicated to their country and cause in the face, at times, of great peril... Henty's heroes fight wars, sail the seas, discover land, conquer evil empires, prospect for gold, and a host of other exciting adventures. Along the way, they meet famous personages... In short, Henty's heroes live through tumultuous historic eras meeting leaders of that time. Understanding the culture of the time period becomes second nature as well as comparing/contrasting the society of various cultures.

Reviews

[Richard Stockton · Rating 5 out of 5]

My new favorite Henty! Full of action and adventure!

[Alexei Ramotar · Rating 1 out of 5]

Harry Furness is perfect in every way. Which makes him an utterly boring character. I am not sure who the divided friends are because the story focuses completely on Furness and his exploits. His friends are completely loyal to him and there's never a hint of argument. Very dull.

It's also a supremely racist book. Irishmen and Scots are treacherous savages who enjoy slaughtering each other. Blacks are doing well as slaves and, according to Henty, thoroughly enjoy their lives as slaves.

If you can don't waste your time with this drivel.

[George · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another of Henty's very popular 19th century historical adventures about courageous young men living in difficult times marked by military conflict who rise above because their intelligence, bravery and leadership abilities.

Opens in in 1642 on the eve of the English Civil War. This adventure deals with two 15 year old close friends: Harry Furness (it is mainly his story), a Cavalier, and Herbert Rippinghall, a Roundhead who find themselves on opposite sides. This is a good story about friendship and love that stays strong though the years during a very turbulent period even when their beliefs are different.

[Angelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is about the English Civil War between Charles and Parliament.