The Herd Boy and His Hermit, published in 1900 by Charlotte M. Yonge, is set against the backdrop of the Wars of the Roses. The story follows Hal, a young shepherd boy, who rescues a noble girl named Anne St. John, leading to a friendship that transcends their social differences. As Hal navigates his hidden lineage and the complexities of identity and class, the novel explores themes of innocence, friendship, and personal growth amidst a divided kingdom. This work reflects the societal challenges of its time while highlighting the contrasts between rural simplicity and noble life.
