Author
Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers
1865-1933
Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers (1865-1933) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers
The King in Yellow
"The King in Yellow" by Robert W. Chambers is a collection of short stories published in 1895. The book opens with supernatural horror tales connected by a forbidden play that drives readers to madness. A mysterious entity called the King in Yellow, an eerie Yellow Sign, and the cursed play itself haunt the first four stories, set in a future 1920s America and Paris. The collection gradually shifts tone, ending with romantic tales, but the opening horror stories have earned acclaim as classics of weird fiction.
The Girl Philippa
"The Girl Philippa" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the late 19th century. This work intertwines themes of espionage and romance, capturing the tumultuous socio-political landscape leading up to World War I. The central character, Philippa, is situated in a precarious position where her life becomes entwined with a secretive British man named Halkett, whose mission and the dangerous individuals pursuing him become pivotal to the story. At the start of the novel, we find ourselves amidst the historical backdrop of the assassination of Archduke Francis Ferdinand, which catalyzes a series of events affecting many characters, including the girl Philippa. Her life is complicated by Wildresse, her protector and an underworld figure, who insists she spy on Halkett—an attractive but mysterious Englishman she has helpfully befriended after he approaches her in a crowded market. The narrative reveals hints of danger as Halkett eludes enemies determined to seize an important envelope in his possession, all while Philippa navigates her own complicated feelings and the demands of the dangerous world around her. As events unfold, her loyalties will be tested against the backdrop of impending war, revealing deeper themes of trust, identity, and survival.
The Green Mouse
"The Green Mouse" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story introduces a young man forced to confront his privileged yet idle life after facing financial ruin. He grapples with his lack of practical skills and contemplates a career as a magician, leveraging his unusual talents to entertain others. The narrative begins to develop his relationship with a young artist who shares a complex bond with him as they both navigate their personal struggles. At the start of the novel, readers meet a disheartened young man reeling from his family's financial collapse and his own failure to secure a stable future. Apathetic about work and life choices, he begins to consider using his talent for magic as a profession despite not being sure of its acceptance in society. This phase of his life is marked by a chance encounter with a spirited girl in Central Park, leading to a tense moment when she loses control of her horse. Their interaction ignites an immediate but complicated connection as they become intertwined in each other's lives. As the opening progresses, the groundwork is laid for both a comedic and romantic narrative, where themes of financial struggle, aspiration, and serendipity intertwine, setting the tone for their evolving relationship.
The Slayer of Souls
"The Slayer of Souls" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story centers around Tressa Norne, a young American girl who is haunted by the memories of her traumatic past during her time in Asia, where she was often ensnared by the sinister influences of a cult known as the Yezidees under the enigmatic Prince Sanang. As she navigates her fear and the potential perils that accompany her existence, the narrative explores deeper themes of life, death, and the battle for one’s soul against malevolent forces. At the start of the novel, we witness Tressa's emergence from a long period steeped in dread and trauma as she travels on a steamer, leaving behind the shadows of her past. She struggles to reclaim her sense of self amidst the kindness of fellow passengers but is still confronted by foreboding visions that hint at her entanglement with dark forces. When confronted by Sanang, an emissary of the Yezidees, Tressa's previous convictions about the control over her soul are deeply challenged. Her determination to survive and assert her autonomy against the sinister magic of her past becomes central to her character, setting the stage for the novel's unfolding conflict between good and evil.
The Fighting Chance
"The Fighting Chance" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story introduces the main character, Siward, a young man appearing somewhat absent-minded and affable, as he arrives at a summer home named Shotover House. The narrative unfolds around his interactions with the spirited Sylvia Landis and their budding acquaintance, layered with themes of social standing, hereditary reputation, and personal choices amidst societal expectations. At the start of the book, Siward arrives by train at Shotover, seemingly uncertain of his destination and preoccupied with the vibrant chaos of the station. He is greeted by a groom who leads him to a phaeton driven by Sylvia Landis, marking the beginning of their charged relationship. As they drive, their conversation reveals personalities that both attract and challenge each other: Siward's easy-going nature contrasts with Sylvia's underlying conflict regarding her engagement to Howard Quarrier, a man of significant social standing. The two engage in a lighthearted but revealing discourse about love, responsibility, and the pressures of societal norms, setting the stage for deeper emotional exploration and potential conflict in the story.
Cardigan
"Cardigan" by Robert W. Chambers is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in the colonial period of America, specifically around the year 1774, and follows the life and adventures of a young boy named Michael Cardigan. As he navigates his coming of age in a world filled with conflict and early American pioneer life, themes of loyalty, ambition, and personal identity unfold throughout the narrative. At the start of the novel, Michael is portrayed as a rebellious and willful boy at the cusp of adulthood, feeling tethered by the constraints of his schooling and the expectations set by his guardian, Sir William Johnson. The opening chapters provide a glimpse into Michael's struggles with authority, his desire for independence, and his yearning for escapism through fishing. His relationship with Silver Heels, a spirited girl who is equally determined, is central to the narrative, illustrating childhood conflicts and camaraderie. The arrival of a new schoolmaster and the backdrop of impending conflicts add tension and anticipation for Michael's journey towards self-discovery and historical significance, setting the stage for a tale rich with adventure and character development.
The Hidden Children
"The Hidden Children" by Robert W. Chambers is a historical novel likely written during the early 20th century. The book delves into the tumultuous era of the American Revolutionary War, intertwining elements of romance and historical fact, as it presents a rich tapestry of characters, including soldiers, townsfolk, and Native Americans from the Iroquois Confederacy. The opening of "The Hidden Children" introduces readers to the war-torn scenery of Westchester County, where two officers, Lieutenant Boyd and Ensign Loskiel, are on a mission to recruit men for their regiment amidst the chaos of conflict. They encounter the aftermath of violence at Hays's Tavern, witnessing the despair of the local people as they discuss the grim realities of war and its psychological toll. As they navigate their way through the desolate landscape, the officers' reflections on duty, honor, and the human cost of war paint a poignant picture of their struggle, setting the tone for the intricate relationships and evolving plot to follow.
The Crimson Tide: A Novel
"The Crimson Tide: A Novel" by Robert W. Chambers is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution, highlighting intense historical struggles and the impact of war on both personal and collective levels. The main characters include John Henry Estridge, an American ambulance driver, and Palla Dumont, the American companion to the exiled Grand Duchess Marie Romanoff, as they navigate through danger and trauma. At the start of the novel, Estridge and Miss Dumont are introduced while traveling through war-torn Russia, where the atmosphere is fraught with tension. Their interactions reveal profound themes of duty, sacrifice, and the complexities of love amidst chaos. The narrative delves into Miss Dumont's aspirations to serve God and her close bond with the Grand Duchess, juxtaposed against the backdrop of the "Battalion of Death," an all-female combat unit. As they encounter various challenges, the story promises deeper explorations of their personal conflicts and the broader implications of the socio-political turmoil surrounding them.
The Younger Set
“The Younger Set” by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Captain Philip Selwyn, who returns to New York from his service in the tropics, deeply affected by personal tragedy and a tumultuous romantic past. The story captures Selwyn's struggle to reconnect with his family, particularly his sister Nina and the younger members of their social circle, as he grapples with loss, guilt, and a desire to find his place in a world that feels alien to him. The opening of the book introduces a blend of characters, including Selwyn, who arrives in the bustling environment of New York City after an absence due to military service. His sister, Nina, provides a warm welcome, hinting at the vibrant family dynamic and societal expectations he must navigate. As they converse, shadows of Selwyn's past emerge, particularly his strained relationship with his ex-wife, Alixe, who is now married to another man. The scene captures Selwyn’s discomfort and the vibrant chaos of a family gathering, setting the stage for his journey of rediscovery within the backdrop of the younger society of New York.
The Dark Star
"The Dark Star" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative seems to explore themes of destiny, darkness, and the intertwining of lives under the influence of the mythical Dark Star, Erlik, suggesting a connection to chaos and turmoil. As the story opens, various characters, including a little girl named Ruhannah and a boy named Jim Neeland, are introduced, each touched by this overarching force, hinting at their intertwined fates. At the start of the novel, the focus is on Ruhannah, a curious child fascinated by her father's stories and the mysterious contents of a wonder-box belonging to a deceased character, Herr Wilner. As she peruses the box, she finds objects like old military revolvers and a menacing bronze figure of Erlik, representing chaos and conflict. The narrative also introduces her father, a missionary, who recounts his past experiences in Turkey, saving her from the grim realities of their history while subtly foreshadowing the darker elements that converge on their lives. Meanwhile, Jim Neeland is depicted as he engages with the natural world around him, and their lives demonstrate the hints of a fate dictated by the lingering shadows of the Dark Star, setting the stage for a tale rich with intrigue, historical tension, and personal development.
The Moonlit Way: A Novel
"The Moonlit Way: A Novel" by Robert W. Chambers is a fictional narrative written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in an enchanting, moonlit setting, primarily in Constantinople, where intrigues of European nobility and a captivating dancer named Nihla Quellen intertwine with themes of love, betrayal, and ambition. The plot hints at layers of complex relationships against a backdrop of rising political tensions and the glamour of the East. At the start of the novel, the atmosphere is rich with vivid imagery of the moonlit Bosphorus, inviting the reader into the opulence of a gathering at the German Embassy, where various characters discuss their fascination with Nihla, a beautiful dancer who has just made a striking entrance. Set among a cast of diplomats and socialites, we are introduced to Count d’Eblis, who is eager to make Nihla the center of attention while Ferez Bey, an influential figure, schemes behind the scenes. As the prologue unfolds, Nihla is revealed as not just an alluring performer but also a pawn in a complex game of power and desire, setting the stage for her dramatic entanglements that echo themes of fate and the quests for personal gain.
The Reckoning
"The Reckoning" by Robert W. Chambers is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative delves into the tumultuous period of the American Revolutionary War, focusing particularly on the experiences of prominent families in northern New York. The story features the protagonist, Carus Renault, as he navigates the challenges of being a spy amidst the intricacies of loyalty and betrayal in a divided nation. The opening of the novel introduces a complex world filled with espionage and the emotional toll it takes on those involved. Carus Renault, serving as the secretary to a loyalist, grapples with his dual identity: while outwardly blending into British society, he covertly assists the revolutionary cause. This tension is heightened by his interactions with friends and acquaintances who are unaware of his true allegiance. The narrative sets the stage for Carus's internal conflicts and introduces themes of honor, duty, and the painful consequences of war, as he reflects on his circumstances with a mix of determination and self-loathing. Through engaging prose, Chambers crafts an atmosphere rich with historical detail and personal stakes, drawing readers into Carus's secret life and the looming threats of the era.
The Restless Sex
"The Restless Sex" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book delves into themes of family, neglect, and the cyclical nature of hardship, focusing on the lives of its characters, particularly a little girl named Stephanie Quest, whose unfortunate beginnings as the child of drug-addicted parents set her on a tumultuous path. The narrative explores the impacts of her upbringing and the contrasting life that awaits her as she becomes entwined with John Cleland, a wealthy man seeking purpose and companionship. The beginning of the novel introduces us to the bleak existence of Stephanie Quest, who is depicted as a lonely child born to neglectful and irresponsible parents. Through a backdrop of urban decay, we learn about her tumultuous family history and the struggles faced by her drug-addicted mother and father. As the story unfolds, Cleland, seeking to fill the void in his own life after losing his wife, decides to take in Stephanie, aiming to rescue her from a dismal fate. The opening sets the tone for a deep exploration of human connections amid adversity, illustrating how one person's decision can profoundly affect another's life.
The Laughing Girl
"The Laughing Girl" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces Michael O'Ryan, who has unexpectedly inherited a property in Switzerland, complete with a deserted chalet and a curious red-headed maid named Thusis. The novel explores themes of identity, absurdity, and the complexities of personal relationships against the backdrop of a war-torn world. At the start of the book, O'Ryan arrives at his new property, only to find it devoid of life except for the maid, Thusis, who surprises him with her unexpected beauty and charm. As the narrative unfolds, O'Ryan grapples with the absurdity of his inheritance and the insistence of local authorities that he must operate the property as a hotel. He is accompanied by his friend Smith, who speculates about the nature of the maid and her resemblance to a photograph of "The Laughing Girl" that O'Ryan treasures. The dynamics between the characters set the stage for a humorous and profound exploration of societal expectations, self-identity, and the allure of the unknown.
The Danger Mark
"The Danger Mark" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Seagrave twins, Scott and Geraldine, who are raised in a restrictive and affluent environment after the loss of their parents. The narrative explores their desire for freedom and companionship, highlighting the contrasts between their sheltered lives and the world outside. The opening of the novel introduces us to the chaotic household of the Seagrave twins, who are left in the care of their guardian, Kathleen Severn, while their emotional and physical needs remain largely unmet. With their mother incapacitated due to an illness, Scott and Geraldine channel their frustration into mischievous antics around the house, showcasing their pent-up energy and longing for personal agency. As they navigate their independence, they express disappointment in their isolation and the suffocating structure imposed by the Half Moon Trust Company that governs their lives, all while yearning for friendship and engagement with the outside world.
In Search of the Unknown
"In Search of the Unknown" by Robert W. Chambers is a fictional work written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the main character, who is a superintendent at the Bronx Zoological Gardens, as he embarks on a peculiar expedition to find the elusive and thought-to-be extinct great auk, along with a mysterious amphibious biped referenced in correspondence from a hermit named Burton Halyard. The story intertwines elements of adventure, mystery, and potential encounters with the unknown in nature. The opening portion of the book introduces us to the protagonist's rather skeptical disposition regarding a letter claiming the existence of live great auks. As he begins his new role, he is urged by his superior, Professor Farrago, to take the lead on an expedition to Black Harbor to investigate Halyard's assertions. Halyard, a somewhat eccentric character, hints at additional peculiarities involving another creature called the harbor-master. The narrative establishes a blend of scientific ambition and personal intrigue as the protagonist wrestles with his duties and the strange occurrences surrounding him, ultimately setting the stage for further adventures into the unknown.
The Adventures of a Modest Man
"The Adventures of a Modest Man" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative appears to follow the life of an ordinary man addressing his mundane existence and unexpected events, starting with a humorous account involving his purchase of a pig, which leads him to reflect on the ruts of daily life and ultimately consider a journey to Paris with his daughters. The protagonist's interactions indicate themes of social dynamics, personal identity, and the pursuit of change, set against a backdrop of family and societal pressures. The opening of the novel introduces us to the main character, who is engaged in a conversation with his friend Gillian about the recent acquisition of a pig. This seemingly trivial event is intertwined with reflections on life in their Long Island community, which the narrator finds stifling. As the chapter unfolds, the man grapples with the idea of heading to Paris after a comical night involving the pig's misadventures, which leads to a decision to travel with his daughters. The narrative sets a light-hearted tone while hinting at deeper themes of personal growth and exploration, establishing a foundation for the character's modest adventures ahead.
The Little Red Foot
"The Little Red Foot" by Robert W. Chambers is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. This engaging narrative is set in colonial America during a crucial time leading up to the Revolutionary War, focusing on the life and legacy of Sir William Johnson, an influential figure known for his relationships with Native Americans and his role in the British colonies. The book introduces themes of loyalty, honor, and the complex intersections of colonial politics, which are embodied in the lives of its characters, including Sir William's son, Sir John Johnson. At the start of the story, Sir William Johnson's passing is depicted as a monumental event, marking the end of an era. The opening chapters provide insight into his significance as a leader who sought to maintain peace between colonists and Indigenous tribes amid the brewing tensions that signal the coming revolutionary conflict. Following his death, key characters, including his son Sir John and various members of colonial society, are shown navigating their grief while also grappling with the ominous political landscape. The story hints at personal conflicts and broader societal shifts, layered with the tensions between loyalty to the Crown and emerging revolutionary sentiments among the colonists.
The talkers
No description available.
The Maid-At-Arms: A Novel
"The Maid-At-Arms: A Novel" by Robert W. Chambers is a historical novel written during the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of a great war, it follows the protagonist, George Ormond, as he navigates the complexities of family ties, allegiances, and personal honor in the politically charged atmosphere of colonial America. The narrative hints at the tumultuous relationships among various families, including the Varicks and Butlers, interwoven with themes of loyalty, conflict, and the harsh realities of war. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to George Ormond, who is on his way to Varicks' Manor, where he hopes to connect with his northern relatives. The opening portion presents his encounter with Jack Mount, a candid and imposing figure who foreshadows the chaotic family dynamics that lie ahead. As George approaches the manor, he experiences a sense of unfamiliarity and homesickness for his southern roots. The narrative sets the stage for a series of interactions with his eccentric relatives, particularly his cousin Dorothy Varick, hinting at the wild nature of their household, and revealing the mounting tensions surrounding the ongoing war. Through vivid descriptions and dialogues, Chambers establishes the conflict between personal relationships and the broader historical implications of loyalty during wartime, drawing readers into a richly detailed world filled with intrigue and emotional depth.
The Mystery of Choice
"The Mystery of Choice" by Robert W. Chambers is a collection of short stories published in 1897. Set primarily in the atmospheric landscapes of Brittany, France, these interconnected tales blend natural beauty with macabre and eerie elements. The collection follows American protagonist Dick Darrel through three stories involving butterfly collecting rivalries, beetle observations, and priestly curses, while other tales explore ghostly transformations, uncanny islands, and mysterious creatures. The final piece is a poem about forgiveness.
Japonette
"Japonette" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around James Edgerton, a young man returning to New York after a financial disaster that has wiped out his family's legacy. As he navigates his new reality, he unexpectedly encounters two orphaned nieces of a family acquaintance, Diana and Silvette Tennant, who have rented his apartment without his knowledge. Their interaction sets the stage for a rich exploration of relationships, identity, and the complexities of social status. At the start of the book, Edgerton arrives back in New York after losing everything in his late uncle's firm. Upon returning to his apartment, he finds it occupied by the Tennant sisters, who believed they were merely renting a space for the summer. This initial surprise leads to comedic misunderstandings and a need for collaboration as they each navigate their precarious financial situations. The characters’ dialogues reveal their personalities, creating a light-hearted yet contemplative atmosphere, hinting at deeper themes of resilience and familial connections that may unfold as their lives become intertwined.
The Firing Line
"The Firing Line" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the early 20th century. It explores romantic themes against a backdrop of adventure, focusing on the experiences of the young protagonist, Hamil, as he navigates the complexities of love and social interactions in a vibrant setting. The narrative particularly highlights Hamil's encounters with a mysterious girl he affectionately nicknames 'Calypso,' who embodies beauty and intrigue. The opening of the story introduces Hamil, who is spending a languid day by the sea as he encounters a girl swimming in the ocean. After saving her, they engage in a spirited dialogue that reveals their contrasting views on life and the nature of human connection. This initial meeting is marked by wit and underlying tension, as Hamil finds himself drawn to her, despite her seemingly indifferent demeanor. As the scene unfolds, the atmosphere shifts from light-hearted banter to contemplative musings on identity and personal history, setting the stage for further exploration of their relationship and the social intricacies surrounding them.
The Business of Life
"The Business of Life" by Robert W. Chambers is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around James Philip Desboro, a man of leisure living in Westchester, as he navigates complex relationships, particularly with Mrs. Clydesdale, who visits him unexpectedly and reveals her troubled marriage. Through interactions with various characters, including Jacqueline Nevers, an antique dealer, the book explores themes of loyalty, love, societal expectations, and personal identity against the backdrop of a changing social landscape. At the start of the novel, Desboro is approached by Mrs. Clydesdale, an unhappy woman seeking refuge from her husband. Their tense conversation reveals her feelings of entrapment within a loveless marriage, and Desboro’s struggle with his past affection for her becomes evident. As their discussion unfolds, his internal conflicts about responsibility and honor come into play, revealing his complicated feelings about love and commitment. The narrative sets the stage for an exploration of Desboro's life choices, including his burgeoning contact with Jacqueline Nevers, who offers a contrasting perspective on passion and ambition. The unfolding drama promises an engaging look at the intersections of personal desires and societal norms.