"Kitty Alone: A Story of Three Fires Vol. 1" by S. Baring-Gould is an enthralling novel in British literature that transports readers to the Victorian era, immersing them in a rich tapestry of historical fiction and family saga. Set against the backdrop of rural life, Baring-Gould weaves a compelling narrative filled with adventure, mystery, and romance. The novel follows the journey of Kitty Alone and her family as they navigate the complexities of Victorian society and the challenges of rural life. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into a web of intrigue and suspense, with mysteries to unravel and secrets to uncover. Baring-Gould's masterful character development brings the cast of characters to life, allowing readers to witness their growth and transformation throughout the narrative. Through their experiences, the novel offers poignant social commentary on the issues of the time, while also delving into timeless themes of love, loss, and resilience. With its blend of historical authenticity, captivating storytelling, and profound insight into human nature, "Kitty Alone" emerges as a quintessential bildungsroman and the captivating first volume in the Three Fires series.
Sabine Baring-Gould, from Lew Trenchard in Devon, England, was an Anglican priest, hagiographer, antiquarian, novelist, folk song collector, and eclectic scholar. His bibliography now includes over 1,240 publications, and it is always growing. He is well known for writing hymns such as "Onward, Christian Soldiers" and "Now the Day Is Over". He also translated the Basque carols "Gabriel's Message" and "Sing Lullaby" into English. His family home, Lew Trenchard's manor house at Okehampton, Devon, has been kept as a hotel after he rebuilt it. Sabine Baring-Gould was born on January 28, 1834, in Exeter's St Sidwell parish. He was the eldest son and heir of Edward Baring-Gould (1804–1872), lord of the manor of Lew Trenchard, a Justice of the Peace and Deputy Lieutenant of Devon, formerly a lieutenant in the Madras Light Cavalry (resigned 1830), by his first wife, Sophia Charlotte Bond, daughter of Admiral Francis Godolphin Bond, Royal Navy. Because his family spent much of his childhood traveling throughout Europe, he received the majority of his education from private tutors. He only attended formal school for two years, first at King's College School in London (then located in Somerset House) and then for a few months at King's School, Warwick (now Warwick School). His time here was cut short by a bronchial ailment that would torment him for the rest of his lengthy life. His father saw his illness as a valid justification for another European tour.
