Author
Geraldine Bonner
1870-1930
Geraldine Bonner (1870-1930) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Geraldine Bonner
The Emigrant Trail
"The Emigrant Trail" by Geraldine Bonner is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book is set in the mid-19th century during the California Gold Rush, and it follows a group of emigrants preparing for a journey westward. The narrative centers on David Crystal, a young man motivated by the call of the frontier, and his interactions with fellow travelers, especially Dr. Gillespie and his daughter, Susan, who represent a more genteel background contrasted against the ruggedness of the trail. The opening of "The Emigrant Trail" introduces readers to the rainy days of May 1848, where the emigrants gather in Independence, anticipating their journey to California, spurred by the lure of gold. We meet David Crystal, who mourns the recent loss of his friend, and witnesses the dynamics of other travelers in camp. The Gillespies, an intriguing new addition to David's expedition, are presented as a father-daughter duo seeking to join the group after being delayed in their journey. Susan's vibrant character becomes a focal point as David finds himself drawn to her, setting the stage for romantic exploration amidst the challenges of their shared trek. This early segment skillfully establishes the historical context, character motivations, and the allure of an epic journey, inviting readers to delve deeper into the unfolding story.
Treasure and Trouble Therewith: A Tale of California
"Treasure and Trouble Therewith: A Tale of California" by Geraldine Bonner is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the California Gold Rush era, it explores themes of greed, ambition, and the struggles faced by individuals seeking wealth and redemption. The narrative opens with Danny Leonard, a messenger for Wells Fargo, who is transporting a substantial amount of gold through the perilous roads of California, foreshadowing the trouble that lies ahead. The opening of the tale introduces readers to a tense scenario where Leonard and stage driver Jim Bailey experience an unexpected holdup by notorious bandits Knapp and Garland. The detailed description of the arid yet vivid California landscape sets the scene as they are ambushed while traversing a secluded road. As the assailants execute their plan, the gravity of Leonard's predicament becomes apparent when he is shot during the encounter. With the stage coach arriving in chaos at a nearby town, the incident marks the beginning of a chain of events that unravels a larger narrative intertwining crime and the pursuit of dreams in the unforgiving terrain of California.
Tomorrow's tangle
"Tomorrow's Tangle" by Geraldine Bonner is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the harsh and unforgiving landscapes of the American West, the story follows Lucy, a young woman who endures a series of tragedies and trials as she navigates a life marked by hardship and loss. The book delves into themes of survival, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships in a world where both beauty and brutality coexist. The opening of the novel introduces Lucy and her struggles in the barren Utah desert, where she watches over her dying child while grappling with the weight of her past. This haunting scene sets the stage for a tale of survival as Lucy is alongside her husband, who shows little compassion during their ordeal. They are joined by another woman, who ultimately becomes the catalyst for a significant turning point in Lucy’s life. As the narrative unfolds, the reader is drawn into Lucy’s journey, not only through the desolation of her physical surroundings but also her emotional landscape as she finds herself in a new environment and facing new challenges. This compelling start promises a rich exploration of character, setting, and the determination to seek a better life amidst despair.
Rich men's children
"Rich Men’s Children" by Geraldine Bonner is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the lives of wealthy characters navigating personal and social dilemmas against the backdrop of California’s mining history. The central figures introduced include Bill Cannon, a prosperous miner known as the Bonanza King, and his daughter Rose, who are depicted against a dramatic landscape marked by isolation and intrigue. The opening portion sets the stage for the journey of Bill Cannon and his daughter, Rose, as they travel through the cold California foothills to reach the mining camp of Rocky Bar. The atmosphere is charged with a mix of adventure and the stark realities of pioneer life. The narrative captures their arrival in Rocky Bar, where they attract attention due to their status and the mystique surrounding Bill Cannon’s past. As they settle in for a meal at the local inn, hints of personal complexities and underlying tensions in their lives begin to emerge. This first chapter introduces not only the physical journey but also foreshadows a deeper exploration of themes related to family, societal expectations, and the impact of wealth on relationships.
Hard-Pan: A Story of Bonanza Fortunes
"Hard-Pan: A Story of Bonanza Fortunes" by Geraldine Bonner is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a declining San Francisco, teeming with remnants of past fortunes, focusing on the lives of characters tied to the city’s dramatic fluctuations in wealth. Central to the narrative are John Gault, a man caught between his intriguing encounters with Viola Reed, the daughter of a fallen bonanza king, and Letitia Mason, who harbors feelings for him. The opening of the novel sets the stage with a dinner party where characters discuss Colonel Ramsay Reed and his daughter, revealing the complexities and expectations of high society. As the conversations unfold, John Gault's growing interest in Viola becomes evident, contrasting with Letitia's contrasting feelings towards John. After dinner, John visits Viola at her home, a stark juxtaposition to the earlier lavish gathering, where the authenticity of their interactions begins to spark deeper emotions. This initial segment establishes the central themes of social status, unrequited love, and the haunting specter of past opulence that pervades their lives, propelling the reader into the intricacies of each character's motivations and societal roles.
The pioneer : $b A tale of two states
"The Pioneer: A Tale of Two States" by Geraldine Bonner is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Colonel Jim Parrish, a wealthy but solitary man, as he navigates both past memories and current challenges in California's mining landscape. He has recently returned to Foleys to address issues concerning a squatter on his land, which brings him unexpectedly close to painful ties from his past. The opening of the book introduces Colonel Parrish as he travels through the picturesque but harsh California landscape to confront a squatter named Allen, who has taken residence on his property. Along his journey, Harsh realities of the past rise to the surface as he reflects on lost love and friendship that were intertwined with the name of Allen. Through encounters with various characters, including the young women June and Rosamund, descendants of the squatter, and flirtations with a local girl, Mitty, the Colonel grapples with his emotional history. The chapter sets the stage for the intertwining themes of love, loss, and the harshness of pioneer life. As events unfold, the story hints at a complex web of relationships that are still present in the characters’ lives.
The book of Evelyn
"The Book of Evelyn" by Geraldine Bonner is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Evelyn Drake, a widow in her thirties who has recently moved back to New York City after several years in Europe. Struggling to find her place in the urban environment and grappling with her past, Evelyn navigates her new life and the challenges of living in a modest apartment while dealing with societal expectations and her own desires. The opening of the novel introduces Evelyn as she settles into her new home, a small furnished apartment in a brownstone. She reflects on her surroundings, the contrasts between her old life and her current situation, and her longing for connection in a bustling city that often feels indifferent. As she settles in, she learns about her fellow tenants, particularly Miss Harris, a vibrant aspiring singer, which hints at the complexities of relationships and the struggles of those who share her environment. Evelyn's observations about her life and surroundings set the stage for themes of loneliness, ambition, and societal roles that unfold throughout the story.
The Castlecourt Diamond Mystery
"The Castlecourt Diamond Mystery" by Geraldine Bonner is a novel written in the early 20th century. This mystery follows the intriguing events surrounding the theft of a valuable diamond necklace belonging to Lady Castlecourt. The opening chapters introduce various key characters including Sophy Jeffers, the lady's maid, and hints at the complexities of the theft that involve deception, social rivalry, and a web of secrets. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Sophy Jeffers, who details her life in service to the Marchioness of Castlecourt, revealing the lavish lifestyle of her mistress and the tensions surrounding their stay at Burridge’s Hotel in London. As preparations are made for a significant event, the Castlecourt diamonds, a family heirloom, disappear under suspicious circumstances. Jeffers recounts her immediate panic upon discovering the diamonds gone, setting the stage for an intricate investigation led by detectives as suspicion falls on various characters, including Lady Castlecourt herself and a mysterious housemaid, Sara Dwight. The narrative hints at deeper motivations and potential accomplices, stirring the intrigue of both the theft and the societal commentary it provides.
The Girl at Central
"The Girl at Central" by Geraldine Bonner is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the murder mystery involving Sylvia Hesketh, a beautiful and wealthy young woman who is brutally killed shortly after a heated quarrel with her stepfather. The narrative is relayed through the perspective of Molly Morganthau, a telephone operator in Longwood, New Jersey, who becomes embroiled in the unfolding drama. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the shock and confusion following Sylvia's murder. Molly reflects on her life and background, painting a picture of her small-town existence while recounting the eerie events surrounding the Hesketh family's turmoil. She describes the local village of Longwood, setting the stage for the main event: Sylvia's mysterious disappearance after a planned elopement with Jack Reddy. As Molly delves into the details, it becomes evident that tensions at Mapleshade, the family estate, are high, with unresolved conflicts and secrets that point toward potential motivations for murder. Events unfold rapidly, laying the groundwork for a gripping exploration of love, jealousy, and the complexities of human relationships against a backdrop of suspense.
The leading lady
"The Leading Lady" by Geraldine Bonner is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Sybil Saunders, a young and celebrated actress who becomes embroiled in a high-profile murder case involving her fiancé, James Dallas. As the narrative unfolds, it explores themes of fame, personal crisis, and the complexities of love in the shadow of public scrutiny. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Sybil as she navigates the aftermath of a sensational murder trial linked to her fiancé. The details of the Dallas-Parkinson case are painted vividly, showcasing the societal pressures and media frenzy surrounding her situation. As Sybil attempts to regain control over her life, she accepts an opportunity to perform in a charity play on Gull Island. However, beneath the surface of her seemingly glamorous life lies a web of tension, jealousy, and the looming threat of past tragedies that may unravel at any moment. The opening effectively sets the stage for a dramatic and captivating exploration of the characters' intertwined fates in the backdrop of the theatrical world.
Miss Maitland, Private Secretary
"Miss Maitland, Private Secretary" by Geraldine Bonner is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the lives of the Prices and Janneys, two affluent families in Long Island, as they negotiate relationships, marital strife, and a burgeoning scandal. The main characters include Suzanne Price, who is dealing with a tumultuous marriage and the repercussions of her actions, and Esther Maitland, the social secretary caught in the web of intrigue surrounding them. At the start of the novel, we witness key events unfolding at Grasslands, the opulent home of the Janneys, as Chapman Price prepares to leave his wife Suzanne. The tension is palpable as family dynamics are strained and the specter of divorce looms. As the characters interact during the heart-wrenching departure, we gain insight into their personalities and emotions. The opening segment hints at deeper issues, such as Suzanne’s financial troubles and potential moral decay, setting the stage for conflicts that may ensue as the plot progresses. It also introduces a world of societal expectations and personal battles amidst the backdrop of wealth and luxury.
The Black Eagle Mystery
"The Black Eagle Mystery" by Geraldine Bonner is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds around the perplexing suicide of a prominent lawyer, Hollings Harland, which sends ripples through the world of finance and leads to a series of investigations delving into deception, love, and financial ruin. Central characters include Molly Morgenthau Babbitts, a former telephone girl turned detective, and her husband Babbitts, who works as a reporter trying to piece together the web of intrigue involving Harland, his associates, and a powerful financier, Johnston Barker. The opening of the novel introduces us to Molly and her husband as they discuss the shocking news of Harland’s suicide, which takes place after a heated confrontation with Barker—who subsequently disappears. As they delve into the mystery, they explore the ramifications of the suicide on various characters around Harland, including Iola Barry, who works in an office on a floor just below the scene of the tragedy, and Miss Whitehall, a businesswoman whose fate becomes intertwined with these events. The narrative captures the initial reactions to the calamity, setting a suspenseful tone as Molly becomes drawn to uncovering the truth behind Harland’s death and Barker’s connections to it. The chapter sets the stage for a gripping tale filled with twists and revelations that challenge the characters' perceptions and motivations.