About this book
Through the Fray by George Alfred Henty brings to life the turbulent world of the Luddite riots in early nineteenth-century Yorkshire. At the heart of this historical fiction adventure is Ned Sankey, a spirited and headstrong young man whose life takes a dramatic turn when tragedy strikes his family. Thrust into a period of social upheaval, Ned must navigate the chaos of factory riots, economic despair, and moral complexity as England's working classes clash with the march of industrial progress.
Set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, when heavy taxation, food scarcity, and revolutionary machinery devastated working families, this novel captures the rise of the mysterious organization known as King Lud—a secret society dedicated to destroying the new mechanical looms that threatened thousands of livelihoods. Henty masterfully weaves historical detail with compelling personal drama, exploring how technological change reshapes communities and tests individual character.
As Ned confronts loss, loyalty, and impossible choices, readers witness the human cost of progress and industrialization. This coming-of-age tale is ideal for young adult audiences and history enthusiasts who crave gripping narratives rooted in real historical events. Perfect for listeners seeking adventure, historical depth, and insight into a pivotal—yet often overlooked—period of British social history.
