Flower o' the lily: A romance of old Cambray

"Flower o' the Lily: A Romance of Old Cambray" by Baroness Emmuska Orczy is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn Netherlands in the late 16th century, the narrative follows Messire Gilles de Crohin, a gallant knight entangled in a conflict defined by personal valor and national loyalty amidst the chaos of battle. The story hints at themes of love, duty, and the consequences of war, focusing on Gilles' struggles as he grapples with his injuries and the disappearance of his faithful companion, Maître Jehan. The opening of the book introduces readers to Gilles de Crohin after a fierce battle at Gembloux, where he is nearly killed and left wandering the battlefield in search of his companion Jehan. As he regains consciousness, he experiences momentary delirium filled with visions of an angelic figure tending to him, representing kindness and hope amidst despair. Despite his injuries and the grim reality surrounding him, Gilles demonstrates resilience, showcasing both his physical prowess and his emotional vulnerabilities. The prose captures the chaos and camaraderie of a soldier's life, setting the stage for a tale that interweaves romance and adventure against the backdrop of historical conflict. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Baroness Emma Orczy, usually known as Baroness Orczy or to her family and friends as Emmuska Orczy, was a Hungarian-born British novelist and playwright. She is best known for her series of novels featuring the Scarlet Pimpernel, the alter ego of Sir Percy Blakeney, a wealthy English fop who turns into a quick-thinking escape artist in order to save French aristocrats from "Madame Guillotine" during the French Revolution, establishing the "hero with a secret identity" in popular culture.