Drama in Livonia: A New Translation

Published in 1904, A Drama in Livonia (Un Drame en Livonie) is one of Jules Verne's later and lesser-known works, offering a departure from his signature adventure and science fiction themes. Instead, Verne delivers a gripping political thriller set in 19th-century Tsarist Russia, blending intrigue, mystery, and social commentary. The novel showcases Verne's talent for suspenseful storytelling while exploring themes of justice, prejudice, and national identity.

The story follows Dimitri Nicolef, a well-respected professor in the Baltic province of Livonia, who is suddenly accused of a heinous crime-the murder of a wealthy banker. As the case unfolds, tensions rise between the region's Russian and German populations, revealing the ethnic and political conflicts that defined Livonia at the time. Dimitri's fate hangs in the balance as he fights to prove his innocence, and Verne masterfully keeps readers in suspense with a plot filled with unexpected twists, legal drama, and societal critique.

Unlike Verne's famous voyages into the unknown, A Drama in Livonia is grounded in the complexities of human nature and historical reality. The novel reflects his deep interest in European politics and law, as well as his ability to craft a compelling narrative around issues of power, prejudice, and moral dilemmas.

This new edition brings A Drama in Livonia to modern audiences, allowing readers to discover a rarely explored side of Jules Verne's literary legacy. Whether you are a fan of Verne's adventure novels or enjoy classic courtroom dramas and political thrillers, this novel offers a fascinating and thought-provoking journey into the heart of 19th-century Eastern Europe.