Helmet of Navarre   By: Bertha Runkle (1879-1958)

Bertha Runkle's novel dives headfirst into the realm of societal expectations and gender dynamics, firmly planting itself in the fertile ground of late 19th-century American literature. "Helmet of Navarre" creates a vivid and complex world, where the boundaries of propriety and female independence are tastefully explored.

Set in New York City during the Gilded Age, the story follows the lives of the upwardly mobile socialite, Mrs. Lorrington, and her young, spirited niece, Natalie. Runkle masterfully weaves multiple narratives together, showcasing the contrasting experiences of women from different social classes, laying bare the hypocrisy and double standards prevalent in their era.

One of the book's strongest aspects is its richly developed characters. Mrs. Lorrington embodies the quintessential Victorian lady, dutifully adhering to societal norms and compromising her own desires for the sake of appearances. Natalie, on the other hand, resists such conformity, often finding herself at odds with the expectations placed upon her. Runkle's nuanced portrayal of these women offers readers a window into the struggles faced by women in an era of rigid gender roles.

The novel's pacing is deliberate, allowing readers to savor each subtle revelation within the storyline. Runkle's prose is elegant and descriptive, painting vivid scenes that transport readers to the opulent ballrooms of high society or the dimly lit corners of secret rendezvous. She skillfully creates an atmosphere of tension and longing, evoking a heightened sense of anticipation that keeps readers fully engaged.

"Helmet of Navarre" also serves as a commentary on the power dynamics within marriages and relationships. Runkle exposes the vulnerability women often experience, sandwiched between their longing for love and the harsh realities of the world around them. The author poses thought-provoking questions about whether one can truly find happiness without compromising one's integrity.

However, there are instances where the novel feels overwhelmed by its own complexity. Some subplots, while interesting in their own right, occasionally detract from the main narrative, causing the pacing to decelerate at times. Readers may find themselves longing for more focus on certain characters or storylines, as Runkle juggles numerous threads throughout the book.

Despite this minor drawback, "Helmet of Navarre" remains an invaluable addition to the canon of late 19th-century American literature. Bertha Runkle skillfully explores themes of societal expectations, gender roles, and the quest for independence. This thought-provoking novel serves as a powerful reminder of the timeless struggles faced by women in a society defined by narrow conventions.

First Page:

CHAPTER PAGE I A FLASH OF LIGHTNING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 II AT THE AMOUR DE DIEU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 III M. LE DUC IS WELL GUARDED. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 IV THE THREE MEN IN THE WINDOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 V RAPIERS AND A VOW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 VI A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 VII A DIVIDED DUTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 VIII CHARLES ANDRÉ ÉTIENNE MARIE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 IX THE HONOUR OF ST. QUENTIN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 X LUCAS AND "LE GAUCHER" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... Continue reading book >>