KIDNAPPED and Its Sequel, Catriona (Illustrated) (ePub)

Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet, and travel writer, known for his prolific and influential body of work, which includes adventure tales, horror stories, and historical fiction. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Stevenson's literary career was often colored by his struggles with health, leading him to seek out more congenial climates for his delicate constitution. Despite his health challenges, he traveled widely and used his experiences to enrich his writings. Stevenson's spirited prose and imaginative storytelling made him a beloved figure of Victorian literature. Among his most enduring works are 'Treasure Island,' 'The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,' and 'A Child's Garden of Verses.' His lesser-known yet equally compelling novels 'Kidnapped' and its sequel 'Catriona,' are illustrative of his expertise in weaving adventure with historical settings. 'Kidnapped' follows the journey of David Balfour, and is set against the backdrop of 18th-century Scotland, incorporating real events such as the Appin Murder of 1752. The sequel, 'Catriona,' continues David's story and explores themes of justice and romance amid political turmoil. Stevenson's literary style characteristically combines vivid characterizations with a fast-paced narrative, earning him a place among the classics of English literature. His enduring contributions to the literary world continue to be celebrated and studied, marking him as one of the key figures in the canon of English literature.