Fortune's My Foe: A Romance

"Fortune's My Foe: A Romance" by John Bloundelle-Burton is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds during the 18th century, focusing on the themes of love, sacrifice, and the turmoil of war, particularly against the backdrop of colonial conflicts. The narrative kicks off with Captain Henry Thorne, who faces the dual anxieties of impending battle and the childbirth of his wife, Mrs. Thorne, aboard his ship in the Caribbean. As the backdrop of war combines with personal strife, the complexities of fortune and fate begin to unravel. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the tumultuous setting of Cartagena where a naval fleet, led by Admiral Vernon, prepares for bombardment. Captain Thorne is shown to be deeply preoccupied with his wife’s wellbeing as she approaches childbirth amidst the chaos of conflict. Meanwhile, the legacy of their newborn child looms large, for the baby is born on the same day Thorne faces potential death during the siege. The prologue sets the stage for the child’s destiny—she is named after the ship, the Ariadne. The story then transitions to the girl, now grown, showing the contrasts between her idyllic childhood and the darker elements of her father's legacy. This opening portion establishes a narrative arc full of promise, intertwining personal and historical stakes, and hints at the romantic pursuits that will follow.