""The Knout: A Tale of Poland"" is a historical fiction novel written by J. Sadlier and first published in 1884. Set in the early 19th century, the story follows the life of a young Polish nobleman named Count Joseph Sobieski, who becomes embroiled in a plot to overthrow the Russian czarist regime that has occupied Poland. As the rebellion gains momentum, Joseph finds himself torn between his loyalty to his country and his love for a Russian woman,...