G. P. R. James 
Arrah Neil; or, Times of Old 

G. P. R. James’s novel ‘Arrah Neil; or, Times of Old’ is a historical romance set in Ireland during a period of political unrest and rebellion. The book delves into the lives of the characters against the backdrop of historical events, showcasing James’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions of the setting. The novel is written in a highly descriptive style, immersing the reader in the drama and intrigue of the time period. James’s attention to detail and accurate historical references add depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it a compelling read for lovers of historical fiction. G. P. R. James, a prolific writer of the 19th century, was known for his historical novels that often explored political themes and social issues of his time. ‘Arrah Neil; or, Times of Old’ reflects James’s interest in historical events and his skill in crafting engaging narratives that capture the essence of a bygone era. James’s background in law and politics likely influenced his choice of subject matter and his ability to create complex characters and intricate plot lines. I highly recommend ‘Arrah Neil; or, Times of Old’ to readers who enjoy historical fiction with a focus on romance, political intrigue, and authentic historical detail. G. P. R. James’s captivating storytelling and compelling characters make this novel a must-read for anyone interested in Irish history and 19th-century literature.

Circa l’autore

George Payne Rainsford James, known as G. P. R. James, was an English novelist and historical writer whose work epitomized the 19th-century historical romance genre. Born on August 9, 1801, James developed a fascination with the past that would heavily influence his literary career. His narratives often integrated factual history with a fictional storyline, engaging readers with a blend of drama and historical authenticity. James is perhaps best remembered for the book ‘Arrah Neil; or, Times of Old, ‘ a romantic historical novel that exemplifies his writing style. With a prolific output, James authored more than a hundred novels throughout his career. His works, characterized by intricate plots and a notable attention to the historical detail of the settings, have contributed to James being regarded as one of the principal British authors of historical romances alongside Sir Walter Scott. G. P. R. James’s narrative techniques and historical depictions won him significant popularity in his time, although his critical reputation has seen considerable fluctuation posthumously. James’s literary legacy remains noteworthy in the study of the genre, particularly for his impactful storytelling and for the influence he exerted on the development of historical fiction in the Victorian era. He passed away on June 9, 1860, leaving behind a substantial body of work that continues to be examined by scholars and enjoyed by readers with a penchant for historical narratives.