Preston Fight (novel)

Preston Fight is a historical novel written by William Harrison Ainsworth, published in 1868. The novel is set in Preston, Lancashire, England, and revolves around the Battle of Preston, which took place in November 1715 during the Jacobite rising.

The story follows the events leading up to, during, and after the battle, focusing on the experiences of both Jacobite and Hanoverian soldiers and civilians caught in the conflict. Ainsworth weaves a narrative that incorporates historical figures and events with fictional characters and plotlines, typical of his historical romances. The novel explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, love, and loss against the backdrop of political upheaval.

While Ainsworth is known for his extensive research, Preston Fight, like many of his other works, takes historical liberties for dramatic effect. The novel provides a romanticized portrayal of the Jacobite cause and its participants, and it is considered a work of historical fiction rather than a strictly accurate historical account.

The novel was originally published in serial form before being released as a complete book. Its reception was mixed, with some critics praising Ainsworth's descriptive writing and engaging storytelling, while others criticized its historical inaccuracies and perceived pro-Jacobite bias.