Results: 49132 books
Sort By:
NewTrending

To The West

George Manville Fenn

"To The West" by George Manville Fenn is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows two young clerks, Mayne Gordon and his colleague Esau Dean, who work under a tyrannical auctioneer, Mr. Isaac Dempster. Dissatisfied with their oppressive working conditions, they decide to venture to British Columbia in search of new opportunities and adventures, particularly in gold prospecting, where they anticipate facing various characters and challenges along their journey. At the start of the narrative, the opening chapters introduce the boys' difficult working environment under Mr. Dempster, illustrating his cruel and abusive nature towards them. As the story unfolds, Mayne becomes increasingly affected by the harshness of their situation, while Esau frequently contemplates a more adventurous life in the military. The narrative takes a thrilling turn when the boys unite against their employer's mistreatment, culminating in a physical altercation that leads to their arrest. Following their release, they explore the possibility of emigrating to the untamed lands of British Columbia to seize a brighter future, igniting a sense of excitement and hope for what lies ahead. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Trapped by Malays: A Tale of Bayonet and Kris

George Manville Fenn

"Trapped by Malays: A Tale of Bayonet and Kris" by George Manville Fenn is an adventurous novel written in the late 19th century. It immerses readers in a tale filled with military life and suspense, centering around young officers stationed in a tropical Malay jungle setting. The narrative follows Ensign Archie Maine, depicting his interactions with fellow soldiers, local inhabitants, and the challenges they face in this exotic yet perilous environment. The opening of the story introduces us to Archie Maine, who reflects on a note from his superior and engages in banter with Private Peter Pegg. Set in Campong Dang on the Ruah River, the sweltering heat invokes a sense of frustration as Archie contemplates the nature of military life while lamenting about potential crocodiles lurking in the waters nearby. A valuable glimpse into Archie's character and his relationships with others—especially the comedic exchanges with Pegg—sets the stage for the ensuing conflict as officers prepare for their duties amid rising tensions with the local Malays. Through humor and camaraderie, the text lays the groundwork for the adventure and suspense that are expected to evolve in the story. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Twice Lost

William Henry Giles Kingston

"Twice Lost" by W.H.G. Kingston is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows young Godfrey Rayner as he embarks on a nautical adventure, starting his journey as a midshipman on the corvette "Heroine". Throughout his voyage, he encounters pirates, treacherous waters, and a variety of characters, including a lost boy named Harry, who becomes integral to the unfolding narrative. At the start of the novel, Godfrey reflects on the emotional farewell to his family before joining the "Heroine". He and his fellow midshipmen quickly adjust to ship life, anticipating exhilarating seafaring encounters. The narrative grabs attention as Godfrey’s ship is ordered to pursue a pirate vessel, leading to various skirmishes, the rescue of a boy from enslavement, and the introduction of Dicky Popo, a lad who possesses a rich backstory involving missing parents and a life shaped by circumstance. The opening sets the stage for an adventure filled with camaraderie, danger, and the quest for freedom, promising a gripping exploration of naval life and personal discovery. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

A True Hero: A Story of the Days of William Penn

William Henry Giles Kingston

"A True Hero: A Story of the Days of William Penn" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around a Quaker family that leaves England in search of a new life in America during the late 1600s, amidst the political and religious turmoil of the time, particularly under the reign of James II. The narrative focuses on the challenges faced by dissenters like the Quakers, capturing their struggle for freedom of worship and the pursuit of liberty. The opening of the book introduces the oppressive atmosphere in England, where dissenting sects are persecuted under restrictive laws, such as the Conventicle Act. Characters are drawn from a gathering outside a Quaker meeting house, highlighting their determination to assert their right to worship freely despite the looming threat of authority. Young William Penn makes a striking entrance as a central figure advocating for peaceful resistance to injustice. As the narrative unfolds, we learn more about the interpersonal dynamics among key characters, including Captain Mead and others, who are caught up in their fight for freedom against a backdrop of societal decay and conflict. This sets the stage for both personal and collective struggles that will be explored throughout the story. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Trapper's Son

William Henry Giles Kingston

"The Trapper's Son" by W.H.G. Kingston is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story is set in the wilderness of North America during a time when Indigenous tribes still roamed the land. It follows the journey of Michael Moggs, an old trapper, and his son Laurence as they navigate the challenges of survival, including the loss of their horses and the quest for a nearby fort. The narrative also delves into Laurence's upbringing and the exploration of faith as he encounters Christian principles for the first time. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a vivid wilderness setting where Michael and Laurence are preparing for winter. After discovering that their horses have been killed—presumably by wolves or Indigenous people—the duo must regroup and carry their collected furs on foot to the fort. The text illustrates the relationship between the old trapper and his son, highlighting Laurence's mixed heritage and ignorance of Christian beliefs, alongside his longings for a different life beyond their current existence. As the narrative unfolds, it sets the stage for Laurence's conflict between two cultures and the potential for his spiritual awakening through the experiences they encounter along their journey. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Two Supercargoes; Or, Adventures in Savage Africa

William Henry Giles Kingston

"The Two Supercargoes; Or, Adventures in Savage Africa" by W.H.G. Kingston is a historical adventure novel written in the early 19th century. The story revolves around two young men who serve as supercargoes, responsible for overseeing cargo on a trading journey along the African coast during a time of limited knowledge about the region. The narrative hints at themes of danger, treasure, and the moral implications surrounding the slave trade, providing a backdrop for the characters' journey of discovery. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the bustling office of a Liverpool merchant firm where discussions of ship arrivals and the recent tragic losses of the crew of the "Arrow" unfold. Key characters such as Harry Bracewell, a kind-hearted clerk, and Nicholas Swab, the steadfast and morally compromised partner, set the stage for the story’s exploration of the complexities surrounding commerce and morality. As they learn about the arrival of the "Arrow" and the mystery surrounding the death of her crew, the stage is set for impending adventure as Harry and a colleague prepare to take on the role of supercargoes on this significant journey, navigating not just the waters, but the implications of their actions on the dark realities of the time, including piracy and the slave trade. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Secret of the Island

Jules Verne

"The Secret of the Island" by Jules Verne, translated by W.H.G. Kingston, is a novel written in the late 19th century. It serves as a sequel to "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea" and follows a group of British adventurers who find themselves stranded on an island in the Pacific after a ballooning expedition goes awry. The protagonists face threats from pirates and escaped convicts, all while uncovering the mysterious presence of the enigmatic Captain Nemo, who watches over them. The opening of the novel sets the scene over two and a half years after the castaways' arrival on Lincoln Island. As they have adapted to their isolated life, the sudden appearance of a vessel raises hopes and fears among the colonists. Led by Cyrus Harding, they debate the ship's intentions, with one character, Ayrton, recalling connections to a ship called the Duncan. Tensions escalate when they discover that the ship is not friendly; a black flag indicates it is a pirate vessel, heightening the urgency of their situation. The colonists must decide how to react to this new threat while defending their newfound home. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Saved from the Sea; Or, The Loss of the Viper, and her Crew's Saharan Adventures

William Henry Giles Kingston

"Saved from the Sea; Or, The Loss of the Viper, and her Crew's Saharan Adventures" by W.H.G. Kingston is a nautical adventure novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a young boy, Charlie Blore, who, along with his friend Halliday, embarks on a military career at sea that leads them into a harrowing adventure aboard a brig named the "Viper," which ultimately capsizes, leaving them fighting for survival in an unforgiving sea. The opening of the novel introduces Charlie Blore as he reminisces about his youth, where he develops a keen interest in languages through a local tailor named Andrew Spurling. After being appointed as midshipmen on different ships, Charlie and Halliday eventually find themselves on the unstable "Viper." As the narrative unfolds, they encounter a disastrous capsizing incident off the African coast, leading the survivors to construct a makeshift raft, thus initiating their desperate struggle against hunger, thirst, and the vast ocean's elements. This gripping start sets the stage for further adventures, underscoring themes of survival, friendship, and the unpredictability of life at sea. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Boy who sailed with Blake

William Henry Giles Kingston

"The Boy Who Sailed with Blake" by W.H.G. Kingston is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. Set against the backdrop of the English Civil War in the 1650s, the story follows the young protagonist, Ben Bracewell, along with his friends Lancelot Kerridge and Dick Harvey, as they become embroiled in the conflict between the Parliamentarians and the Royalists. With a focus on the valor and experiences of the characters, the novel explores themes of heroism, conscience, and the struggle for civil and religious liberties. At the start of the narrative, the boys find themselves on a fishing trip off the coast of Lyme when they hear the bells of Saint Michael's, signaling the arrival of a military presence. The opening chapters introduce their community's fears regarding a Cavalier attack, as Colonel Blake arrives with his troops to defend the town. As tensions mount, Ben and his friends engage in preparation for potential conflict, illustrating both their youthful enthusiasm and the serious stakes surrounding them. The boys' determination to contribute to the defense of their home shows their dedication to the cause and sets the stage for the historical events that unfold throughout the story. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Woodcutter of Gutech

William Henry Giles Kingston

"The Woodcutter of Gutech" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical novel written during the mid- to late 19th century, reflecting the tumultuous early days of the Reformation. The book explores the struggle of ordinary people against the rising tide of religious oppression, specifically focusing on the Roman Church's attempts to keep the Bible from the hands of the masses. The narrative centers around a woodcutter, his family, and a traveling book hawker who introduces them to the scriptures and ignites their faith. The story unfolds as a traveler named Gottlieb Spena seeks refuge in the woodcutter's home, sharing with them Bibles and the principles of Christianity that had been suppressed by the Church. The woodcutter, Nicholas Moretz, along with his grandchildren, Karl and Meta, are drawn into the transformative power of these texts, ultimately leading to Moretz’s imprisonment for standing up against the local authorities. The narrative depicts their struggles, both against societal norms and personal challenges, interwoven with themes of faith, love, and the pursuit of truth. The climax brings tension between the peasants and the ruling class, ultimately resulting in battles fueled by the desire for freedom, underscoring the book's rich backdrop of religious reformation and social upheaval. Throughout the text, Kingston illustrates how access to knowledge can empower individuals to rise against tyranny while remaining anchored in their faith. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Young Rajah

William Henry Giles Kingston

"The Young Rajah" by W.H.G. Kingston is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Reginald Hamerton, a young man returning to India in search of his father's important documents just before the Indian Mutiny. As the narrative unfolds, Reginald discovers that he is the heir to a princely lineage, which complicates his journey and introduces him to the complexities of leadership and duty amidst a backdrop of social unrest. The opening of the book sets the stage aboard the ship Glamorgan Castle, sailing to India. Various passengers, including Reginald, are introduced alongside Colonel Ross and his daughter Violet, who becomes a key character in Reginald's life. As they journey, Reginald's courage rises to the occasion when he selflessly rescues a fellow passenger from drowning. His actions win him admiration from Violet, while the enigmatic nature of his own heritage and the proximity of potential conflict loom in the background. The scene blends humor, character development, and foreshadowing, hinting at the larger adventure and challenges that await Reginald in the heart of India. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Roger Willoughby: A Story of the Times of Benbow

William Henry Giles Kingston

"Roger Willoughby: A Story of the Times of Benbow" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows young Roger Willoughby as he navigates adventures amidst the political and social upheaval of his time, encountering various maritime challenges and personal aspirations of becoming a sailor. The narrative introduces characters like Stephen Battiscombe, Roger's friend, and the experienced Captain Benbow, who play significant roles in shaping Roger's journey and dreams. The opening of the book establishes the setting along the Dorsetshire coast, where Roger and his companion Stephen engage in light-hearted conversation about a ship they observe at sea. Roger expresses his longing for adventure and exploration beyond his sheltered life, particularly yearning to sail with the approaching vessel. As the boys plan to investigate the ship, they receive permission from their families, setting the stage for Roger's eventual departure to sea. This introduction effectively sets a tone of youthful curiosity and foreshadows the rich adventures ahead, intertwined with the political tensions of the era. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Wanderers; Or, Adventures in the Wilds of Trinidad and Orinoco

William Henry Giles Kingston

"The Wanderers; Or, Adventures in the Wilds of Trinidad and Orinoco" by W.H.G. Kingston is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story follows the Macnamara family, particularly the children Guy, Marian, and their cousin Arthur, who face a series of challenges after fleeing religious persecution and financial troubles in the United States, eventually seeking refuge in Trinidad and navigating the dangers of colonial life. Their journey is marked by encounters with local authorities, grappling with their faith, and persistent threats from the Inquisition. At the start of the narrative, the Macnamara family is forced to leave their prosperous life in Pennsylvania after political unrest and financial difficulties arise. They journey to Trinidad, where their mother tragically dies, prompting further turmoil as two priests attempt to impose Catholic rites on her burial. The family eventually flees to the wilderness of South America to escape the Inquisition's scrutiny over their Protestant beliefs. The opening chapters establish the family's struggle, their inner conflicts regarding faith, and hint at the myriad adventures and close calls that await them as they strive to remain true to themselves in a foreign land. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Settlers: A Tale of Virginia

William Henry Giles Kingston

"The Settlers: A Tale of Virginia" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the early encounters of colonists in Virginia, focusing on well-known historical figures like Pocahontas amidst the backdrop of their adventurous and often perilous experiences. The story ultimately spotlights themes of exploration, survival, and the trials of establishing new settlements. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Captain Amyas Layton, whose home overlooks Plymouth Sound. Two young men, Vaughan and Gilbert Audley, arrive seeking the captain, revealing they are the sons of Layton's long-lost shipmate, Captain Vaughan Audley, who was believed to have perished in Virginia. As they share their father's story of survival among the Native Americans, Captain Layton expresses his willingness to help them embark on a journey to find their father, setting the stage for an expedition filled with hope and uncertainty. The opening establishes the strong themes of friendship, loyalty, and the determination to overcome challenges, as characters prepare for their significant voyage across the ocean. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

True Blue

William Henry Giles Kingston

"True Blue" by W.H.G. Kingston is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative depicts the life of a British seaman during the age of wooden warships and provides a vivid portrayal of naval life, particularly set against the backdrop of significant battles like the one on the "glorious first of June." The story revolves around the main character, William Freeborn, who faces the harsh realities of life at sea, including personal loss and the struggles of parenthood aboard a ship. The opening of the novel sets a dramatic tone as the ship "Terrible" sails through a turbulent Atlantic storm, showcasing the dangers of naval life. The captain, Josiah Penrose, is depicted as a compassionate leader, especially as he tends to the well-being of his crew and their families, including the wife of one of his men, William Freeborn. As the ship bravely faces the elements, Freeborn receives devastating news about his wife, Molly, and the birth of their child, Billy True Blue. Through a blend of adventure and human emotion, Kingston captures the camaraderie and hardships faced by sailors while foreshadowing the challenges that little Billy will encounter as he grows up in the turbulent world of the sea. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Sunshine Bill

William Henry Giles Kingston

"Sunshine Bill" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a fictional novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows the adventurous life of a young boy named Bill Sunnyside, who endures hardship and loss as the son of a wherry-man in Portsmouth. After a series of challenges, including the death of his father, Bill seizes the opportunity to join a ship as a boy seaman, embarking on a journey filled with both peril and the promise of adventure at sea. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Sunshine Bill's family and their struggles, highlighting their poverty and resilience. Bill, known for his cheerful disposition, finds himself orphaned after his father's tragic accident at sea. Despite facing hunger and hardship, Bill's upbeat nature shines through, as he helps support his mother and siblings. His luck turns when he is befriended by Captain Trevelyan, who offers him a place on board the "Lilly", a warship. This marks the beginning of Bill's adventures at sea, where he encounters severe weather, fierce battles, and life-changing experiences that test his courage and determination. The opening lays the foundation for a tale of perseverance, friendship, and the trials of growing up amid turbulent circumstances. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The South Sea Whaler

William Henry Giles Kingston

"The South Sea Whaler" by W.H.G. Kingston is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Walter and his sister Alice, who join their father, Captain Tredeagle, on what is meant to be his last whaling voyage in the South Seas. The narrative unfolds with the explorations and adventures at sea, leading to confrontations with mutinous crew members, dramatic whale hunts, and the challenges faced by the children as they navigate treacherous waters and hostile circumstances. The opening of the book sets the stage for a nautical adventure filled with both personal and external conflict. It introduces Captain Tredeagle, who is determined to provide for his children following their mother's death during a previous voyage, while also hinting at the troubles that lie ahead with the crew's growing discontent. Speculation of mutiny soon arises, and amid the engaging descriptions of marine life and the intricacies of shipboard life, Alice and Walter's fates are intertwined with their father's leadership amidst growing dangers at sea. As tensions rise, the children are thrust into a world of peril and bravery, making the narrative ripe for exploration of themes such as familial duty, survival, and the harsh realities of life at sea. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Snow Shoes and Canoes - Or, The Early Days of a Fur-Trader in the Hudson Bay Territory

William Henry Giles Kingston

"Snow Shoes and Canoes" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical adventure novel written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around the thrilling and perilous journey of a group of fur traders in the Hudson Bay Territory, led by the narrator and his experienced companion, Sandy McTavish. Their expedition involves transporting essential supplies across daunting terrain, during which they face various challenges, including encounters with wildlife, treacherous weather, and interactions with Indigenous tribes. At the start of the book, the expedition's urgent nature is established as the narrator, along with Sandy and a couple of other men, sets off from Black Fort to retrieve winter supplies from Fort Ross. The narrative dives into the difficulties they encounter while traveling overland, such as a snowstorm that complicates their journey, a painful horse injury, and a surprising encounter with a pair of would-be horse thieves. The opening portions set a vivid and immersive scene, illustrating the harsh and unpredictable life of a fur trader in the North-West Territory and hinting at the mix of adventure and survival themes that dominate the story. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Mark Seaworth

William Henry Giles Kingston

"Mark Seaworth" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a nautical adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The book tells the story of Mark Seaworth, a young man on a quest to find his sister and uncover his identity. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of the perilous sea and vivid descriptions of maritime life, setting the stage for a tale filled with drama and emotional depth. The opening of the story introduces a vast, tranquil ocean and a lifeless boat adrift at sea. Within the boat, two seamen lay dead, while a dark-skinned woman, who is weak but fiercely protective, survives to care for two young children, one of whom is revealed to be Mark. As the narrative progresses, readers witness the dramatic rescue of Mark and his sister by a ship that arrives just in time to save them from the fates that befell their companions. This initial setup hints at themes of survival, the bond of family, and the divine providence that plays a central role in their journey, establishing a foundation for a story that blends adventure with heartfelt moral lessons. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Salt Water: The Sea Life and Adventures of Neil D'Arcy the Midshipman

William Henry Giles Kingston

"Salt Water: The Sea Life and Adventures of Neil D'Arcy the Midshipman" by W H G Kingston is a fictional novel written in the mid-19th century. The story centers on the adventures of a young boy named Neil D'Arcy, who joins the Royal Navy as a midshipman under the guardianship of his uncle. Set mainly in the Mediterranean, the narrative is expected to unravel themes of bravery, adventure, and the challenges faced at sea, laden with action and suspense. At the start of the book, Neil D'Arcy shares his upbringing and strong inclination towards a life at sea, influenced by his seafaring butler, Larry Harrigan. After losing both his parents, Neil is entrusted to his uncle, Counsellor D'Arcy, and quickly decides to pursue a naval career. The opening chapters describe his training and preparation for life aboard the ship "Serpent", including encounters with fellow midshipmen and insights into the realities of naval life. As Neil gears up for his adventures, readers are introduced to the rich landscape of maritime culture and the impending challenges that await him in the thrilling expanse of the sea. (This is an automatically generated summary.)