Toilers of the Sea by Victor Hugo

Set against the backdrop of the rugged Channel Islands, this novel follows Gilliatt, a solitary fisherman who undertakes a perilous mission to salvage a shipwrecked steamer. Through Gilliatt's struggle against the sea and the elements, Hugo explores themes of human endurance, nature's power, and unrequited love. The novel is both an adventure story and a deep philosophical reflection on the individual's battle against the forces of nature and fate.

Bug-Jargal by Victor Hugo

This early novel by Victor Hugo is set during the Haitian Revolution and tells the story of Bug-Jargal, an African prince who becomes a leader among the enslaved people. The novel explores themes of slavery, rebellion, and the complexities of human nature, while also reflecting on the horrors of colonialism and the fight for freedom. Hugo's portrayal of Bug-Jargal as a noble and heroic figure underscores the author's deep concern with justice and human dignity.