The Haute Noblesse: A Novel

"The Haute Noblesse: A Novel" by George Manville Fenn is a tale set in the late 19th century, merging themes of social standing and personal ambition against a backdrop of scenic coastal life. The story opens with Uncle Luke Vine, a cantankerous fisherman, who is approached by his lively nieces, Louisa and Madelaine. Their interactions hint at underlying family tensions, particularly concerning the family's reputation and interactions with those outside their social class. The opening of the novel introduces us to Uncle Luke as he fishes on a rocky point, reflecting his gruff nature and disdain for societal norms regarding his trade. The appearance of his nieces injects a lively banter into the scene, representing youthfulness and charm contrasted with their uncle’s cynicism. As they discuss family dynamics and romance—particularly the interest of young Harry Vine, Luke's nephew—the narrative sets up complex relationships characterized by affection, rivalry, and class concerns. The characters' playful exchanges foreshadow conflicts that may arise from the differing expectations of social status intertwined with matters of the heart, suggesting a deeper exploration of identity and societal pressures as the story unfolds. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

George Manville Fenn was a prolific English novelist, journalist, editor and educationalist. Many of his novels were written with young adults in mind. His final book was his biography of a fellow writer for juveniles, George Alfred Henty.