Author
Albert W. Aiken
1846-1894
Albert W. Aiken (1846-1894) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Albert W. Aiken
The Wolf Demon; or, The Queen of the Kanawha
"The Wolf Demon; or, The Queen of the Kanawha" by Albert W. Aiken is a novel written in the late 19th century. Set against a backdrop of turmoil and conflict between indigenous tribes and settlers, the story follows a cast of characters caught in the struggle for survival and power amid mystique and horror. Key figures include the formidable hunter Daniel Boone, the young and beautiful Virginia Treveling, and a mysterious entity known as the Wolf Demon, whose brutal attacks create havoc for the Shawnee tribe. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the eerie, atmospheric setting of the wilderness, where nature's beauty is contrasted with the lurking danger represented by the Wolf Demon, a creature with the body of a wolf and the face of a man. The narrative quickly shifts to the tense interactions between Daniel Boone and a fellow hunter named Abe Lark, who both witness a horrific murder committed by this supernatural entity. The scene culminates with the introduction of Virginia and Harvey Winthrop, who discover their feelings for each other, only to be interrupted by violence and impending danger. The opening effectively sets the stage for a thrilling saga filled with adventure, romance, and a fight against unseen malevolent forces.
The skeleton scout; or, The border block
"The Skeleton Scout; or, The Border Block" by Major Lewis W. Carson is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a hazardous setting during a time of conflict between settlers and Native Americans in the West. The central character is a tall, quirky Yankee named Seth Spink, whose humorous antics and bravery contrast with the tension surrounding his new allies, Captain William Floyd and the mysterious Dead Chief of the Pottawatomie tribe. This mixture of adventure, survival, and cultural encounters provides an intriguing backdrop as the characters navigate their precarious situation. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to the serene landscape alongside a great river that quickly gives way to suspense as a group of painted Native Americans, led by the chief Willimack, silently stalk a log cabin. However, the arrival of Seth Spink, who casually navigates the river on a log, disrupts the scene. His unexpected entrance leads to comedic exchanges, revealing his unique character traits. Despite the initial light-hearted tone, tension escalates when Willimack's deceptive intentions are uncovered, prompting a series of survival challenges that affect Floyd and Madge, a beautiful girl staying with the Floyd family. As the unfolding events spiral toward hostile confrontations, readers are left eager to see how Spink's exaggerated bravado and the supernatural specter known as the Skeleton Scout will intertwine to shape their fates against the looming threat from the savages.
The Border Riflemen; or, The Forest Fiend. A Romance of the Black-Hawk Uprising
"The Border Riflemen; or, The Forest Fiend. A Romance of the Black-Hawk Uprising" by Lieut. Lewis W. Carson is a historical romance novel written in the early 1870s. The book appears to delve into the tensions of the Black-Hawk Uprising, focusing on the interactions between settlers and Native Americans during this turbulent period. The story opens with the introduction of key characters like Sadie Wescott and Cooney Joe, setting the stage for an exploration of conflicts that arise from cultural misunderstandings and personal vendettas. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a serene frontier setting, abruptly interrupted by tension between characters. We meet Sadie Wescott, a brave young woman facing the unwanted advances of William Jackwood, who threatens violence when rejected. Just as things escalate, Cooney Joe confronts Jackwood to defend Sadie. This confrontation hints at deeper issues, as tensions are rising on the frontier due to growing unrest among Native Americans, led by figures like Black-Hawk. Through this vivid portrayal of interpersonal conflicts and simmering tensions, the opening sets a dramatic backdrop for the unfolding struggle against the backdrop of historical events.
Ben, the Trapper; Or, The Mountain Demon: A Tale of the Black Hills
"Ben, the Trapper; Or, The Mountain Demon: A Tale of the Black Hills" by Major Lewis W. Carson is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story focuses on the rugged life of trappers in the Black Hills during a time of conflict between territorial powers and Native American tribes. The main character, Ben Miffin, is a skilled trapper and hunter who, along with his companions—Jules, a Frenchman, and Jan, a Dutchman—navigates the dangers of the wild and confronts hostile forces, including a mysterious beast referred to as the "Mountain Devil." The opening of the tale introduces us to Ben Miffin and his companions as they establish a camp in the Black Hills. Their banter reveals their distinct personalities, setting the stage for their adventures. As they settle in, they discuss the harsh realities of their lives as trappers and face the immediate danger of a grizzly bear, showcasing Ben’s bravery and experience. The narrative hints at underlying tensions in the region, as well as future confrontations with both wildlife and Native American tribes. The dynamic between the characters and their humorous interactions provide a lively and engaging entry into the novel’s broader themes of survival, camaraderie, and the brutal realities of life on the frontier.
The Rival Trappers: or, Old Pegs, The Mountaineer
"The Rival Trappers: or, Old Pegs, The Mountaineer" by Albert W. Aiken is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the adventures of Old Pegs, a rugged mountain hunter with an indomitable spirit, and his encounters with various characters, including Rafe Norris, who seeks shelter after a close encounter with hostile Indians. As tensions rise in the perilous landscape, themes of bravery, survival, and unexpected bonds emerge. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to Old Pegs, a peculiar yet courageous mountaineer who saves a young man named Rafe Norris from being pursued by a group of Blackfoot Indians. Old Pegs displays wit and resourcefulness as he navigates the dangerous terrain, and reveals a treasure more precious than gold, leading to the introduction of his daughter, Myrtle. The chapter sets the stage for action and adventure, highlighting the contrasting characters and hinting at complications that may arise as Rafe becomes entangled with Myrtle, while darker forces loom in the background. The opening builds a sense of intrigue and excitement that invites readers into a tale of life in the untamed wilderness.
Dead Shot; Or, The White Vulture: A Romance of the Yellowstone
"Dead Shot; Or, The White Vulture: A Romance of the Yellowstone" by Albert W. Aiken is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the rugged landscape of the Yellowstone region, primarily focusing on the tense interactions among various characters, including settlers and Native Americans. Central to the narrative are Abe Colt, known as the "Crow-Killer," a skilled prairie guide exacting revenge on the Crow tribe, and Dave Reed, a young guide with an intriguing connection to a mysterious stranger, setting the stage for conflict and romantic entanglements. At the start of the tale, readers are introduced to Fort Bent, a crucial outpost for wagon-trains heading to Montana, where the atmosphere is rife with tension due to the looming threat of Indian attacks. Abe Colt and Dave Reed stand out as two formidable characters, seasoned in the dangers of the frontier, each harboring significant histories that intertwine with the local tribes. The plot thickens with the appearance of a stranger who bears an uncanny resemblance to Dave, which sparks suspicion and curiosity among the guides. As tensions mount, the narrative hints at approaching conflict with the Crow tribe led by the young warrior known as the "White Vulture." The opening chapters set a vivid and suspenseful stage for the storyline, rich with danger, revenge, and the possibilities of love amidst turmoil.