Author
Ridgwell Cullum
1867-1943
Ridgwell Cullum (1867-1943) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Ridgwell Cullum
The Law-Breakers
"The Law-Breakers" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the Canadian prairie during a time of lawlessness and prohibition, focusing on the struggles between law enforcement and criminals. Most prominently, the story revolves around Inspector Stanley Fyles, who is determined to uphold the law in a territory rife with contraband and illicit activities. The opening of the novel introduces Inspector Fyles as he patrols a dusty train platform in a harsh summer heat, awaiting the arrival of a freight train carrying contraband liquor. He engages in a conversation with the railroad agent, Huntly, establishing the tense atmosphere of both comical and serious elements as they discuss the unreliable schedules of local freights and the increasing challenges posed by illegal traffic. We also glimpse the motivations and personalities of other characters, including the outlaws who intend to execute a daring robbery on the moving cargo. The stage is set for a gripping story of crime, duty, and the chase that will entangle both lawmen and outlaws in their relentless pursuit of justice and survival in the wild Prairie landscape.
The Twins of Suffering Creek
"The Twins of Suffering Creek" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Scipio, a gentle and naive man struggling to provide for his wife, Jessie, and their twin children amidst the harsh realities of life in a rough mining camp in Montana. The narrative explores themes of love, desperation, and betrayal as Scipio's devotion and naïveté create tension within his marriage, setting the stage for the unfolding drama. At the start of the book, we meet Scipio, who is trying to assist his indifferent wife, Jessie, while also dealing with the harshness of their daily lives. Jessie is consumed with discontent and longing for their former life of comfort, which contrasts with Scipio’s hopeful dreams of striking gold to improve their situation. As the story progresses, an intriguing character, a man named Lord James, enters their lives and stirs up conflict, leading to Jessie's eventual decision to leave Scipio for him, thus plunging Scipio into despair. The opening chapters set in a small mining camp depict the struggles of their family dynamic, revealing deep emotional layers that foreshadow a dramatic conflict driven by love, desire, and the quest for a better life.
The Saint of the Speedway
"The Saint of the Speedway" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds around themes of adventure, ambition, and moral dilemmas associated with fortune-seeking, primarily through the lives of two main characters, Len Stern and Jim Carver, who are youthful adventurers from Alaska. Their quest for gold leads them to the treacherous northwest coast of Australia, where they unearth a fortune but must navigate the dangers of secrecy and greed that accompany their newfound wealth. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the two men as they experience the thrill of discovering a significant gold deposit while working at a primitive sluice in the Australian wilderness. As their excitement builds, Len contemplates the vast implications of their discovery. Meanwhile, Jim, reflective and cautious, warns of the risks involved, hinting at the challenges that come with their ambition. The narrative quickly establishes a sense of urgency, as both men realize the need to devise a plan to conceal their fortune from outside forces, including the Australian government. Amidst this tension, the foreword draws a connection to the enigma of the "Marie Celeste," adding layers of intrigue to their adventure.
The Watchers of the Plains: A Tale of the Western Prairies
"The Watchers of the Plains: A Tale of the Western Prairies" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the Western American plains and features characters connected to the struggles between settlers and Native Americans, particularly focusing on the interactions within the Rosebud Reservation. Central to the narrative are characters Nevil Steyne, a morally ambiguous white man living near the Reservation, and the conflicted relationships that develop between him and the indigenous characters, including those tied to the chief, Big Wolf. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Nevil Steyne, who receives a letter from his estranged brother, Landor, revealing a past filled with family conflict and potentially igniting tensions for their reunion. As Steyne contemplates this letter, he experiences a mixture of anger and resentment, foreshadowing his deeper involvement with the Native American community, particularly with Big Wolf and his daughter, Wanaha. The opening portion establishes a vivid sense of place, highlighting the isolation of Steyne's dwelling and his complex motivations, hinting at the volatile socio-political landscape that is about to unfold with the presence of both white settlers and Native American tribes.
The One-Way Trail: A story of the cattle country
"The One-Way Trail: A Story of the Cattle Country" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story is set in the rugged cattle country of Montana and revolves around the lives and relationships of cowboys, ranchers, and the complexities that arise when love and ambition collide. The main characters introduced include Jim Thorpe, a thoughtful foreman with a tragic past, and Dan McLagan, the brash, optimistic ranch owner who has grand plans for his cattle empire. The opening of the novel introduces us to Jim Thorpe and Dan McLagan as they discuss a successful round-up on McLagan's ranch, the "AZ's." While McLagan is full of ambitious plans for expansion, Jim possesses a more cautious demeanor, reflecting on his past failures and ambitions that were thwarted by misfortune. Their conversation hints at deeper tensions, particularly as Jim is grappling with his feelings for Eve Marsham, a local woman, and the rivalry with his cousin Will Henderson, who also has eyes on her. Throughout this initial chapter, the stage is set for themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh realities of life in the cattle industry, hinting at a backdrop of impending conflict and emotional turmoil.
The Way of the Strong
"The Way of the Strong" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the wilderness of the Yukon, where characters confront extreme challenges in both nature and human relationships. The narrative explores themes of ambition, survival, and the complexities of love through the lives of its main characters, Tug, a rugged man determined to make a fortune, Audie, a young woman torn between her desires and harsh realities, and Leo, who embodies strength and determination. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to a grim scene on Sixty-Mile Creek as Tug prepares to embark on a perilous journey through the snowy winter wilderness. The tension is palpable as Audie expresses her deep longing to escape the desolation of the Yukon, grappling with her fears about impending motherhood. Tug's cynical nature contrasts with Leo's charismatic presence, setting the stage for a conflict that involves ambition, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of survival in an unforgiving landscape. As the characters navigate their entwined fates amidst freezing temperatures and personal struggles, the groundwork is laid for an intense exploration of what it means to be "strong."
The Night Riders: A Romance of Early Montana
"The Night Riders: A Romance of Early Montana" by Ridgwell Cullum is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of frontier life and human relationships against the backdrop of Montana's rugged landscape. The story's main character, John Tresler, is introduced as a recent graduate from Harvard who embarks on a journey to become a rancher, determined to learn the ropes in a rough-and-tumble environment filled with tension and power struggles. The opening of the novel establishes Tresler's arrival at Forks Settlement, a once-thriving but now fading community in Montana. Upon entering this prairie town, Tresler encounters a motley crew of local characters, each embodying the lawlessness and camaraderie of frontier life. He meets the shy yet observant Slum Ranks, who provides a glimpse of the town's dynamics, including tales of the powerful rancher Julian Marbolt and his ruthless foreman, Jake Harnach. As Tresler settles into his new surroundings, the tensions of the settlement and the dangers posed by the Night Riders—a group connected to the lawlessness of the region—begin to weave a narrative that promises conflict, personal growth, and potentially a romantic subplot involving the enigmatic Diane Marbolt.
The Trail of the Axe: A Story of Red Sand Valley
"The Trail of the Axe: A Story of Red Sand Valley" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Dave, a robust and determined lumberman who came to the Red Sand Valley in search of success, and his complex relationships, particularly with the beautiful and vibrant Betty Somers, who has promised to marry the younger but troubled Jim Truscott. Themes of ambition, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life serve as a backdrop for the character-driven narrative." "At the start of the novel, we meet Dave, who embodies physical strength and a generous spirit but struggles with the perception of his plainness. Twelve years into his journey in the Red Sand Valley, he has established a successful lumber mill and garnered respect in the community. However, tensions arise when Jim Truscott, a young man with potential but lacking responsibility, returns to the valley after years away, having fallen into a life of debauchery. As the opening chapters unfold, we see Betty's internal conflict regarding her engagement to Jim amid news of his unsavory behavior. The groundwork is laid for a narrative that promises to explore the complexities of love and responsibility against a backdrop of personal struggle and communal life."
The riddle of Three-Way Creek
"The Riddle of Three-Way Creek" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around themes of loyalty and justice as it follows the lives of Jim Pryse, a man sentenced to prison for defending his brother, and Corporal Andrew McFardell, the Mountie escorting him. Set against the backdrop of the harsh Canadian wilderness, the novel explores the consequences of compassion and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a frozen trail leading into a valley where two horsemen traverse the cold landscape: Corporal McFardell and his prisoner, Jim Pryse. Their dialogue reveals Pryse’s sense of loyalty towards his brother, who is accused of murder, and the policeman’s frustration at the situation that has led them there. As snow begins to fall, the story quickly escalates when McFardell falls from his horse, giving Pryse an unexpected opportunity to escape. The narrative captures the tension of their predicament and sets the stage for the unfolding drama as Pryse makes a daring decision that will shape his fate and those around him.
The wolf pack
"The Wolf Pack" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the rugged Canadian wilderness, focusing on themes of survival, love, and the clash of cultures. Central to the narrative are the characters Luana, a half-Indian nurse, and the young boy she cares for, Ivan Steele, whose lives are intricately intertwined with the fate of their environment and the men who trespass upon it. At the start of the book, we find Luana and young Ivan aboard a sluggish train journeying back to their home after a vacation, her heart aching at the prospect of returning to the wilds, away from the chaotic civilization. The narrative quickly shifts to Pideau Estevan, a half-breed cattle thief, who grapples with his newfound responsibility of caring for his infant daughter after the death of her mother. The opening chapters establish a tense atmosphere as Luana encounters tragedy when an accident befalls the train, leading to the deaths of Ivan’s parents. As their paths converge, themes of maternal love, jealousy, and the harsh realities of life in the wilderness begin to surface, setting a stage ripe for conflict and emotional drama.
The Golden Woman: A Story of the Montana Hills
"The Golden Woman: A Story of the Montana Hills" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds around the complex relationships between an elderly woman named Mercy Lascelles, a crystal-gazer with a harsh demeanor, and her niece Joan Stanmore, a beautiful and independent young woman. The narrative hints at themes of curse and destiny, as Mercy believes that Joan is a pariah whose very existence brings disaster to those around her. The opening portion of the book introduces us to Mercy Lascelles, who is portrayed as a cold and unyielding crystal-gazer, and her young niece, Joan, who has chosen to live with her aunt despite the latter's unpleasantness. As they converse, the tension between them escalates, particularly when Mercy reveals her harsh predictions about Joan's recent suitor, Dick Sorley. This exchange raises questions about the fate that has befallen Joan's past lovers, leading to a dire accusation that she is responsible for their misfortunes. The emotional weight of the aunt's bitterness and the niece's desperation sets the stage for a narrative that combines elements of tragedy, familial ties, and the quest for understanding amidst supernatural beliefs.
The Triumph of John Kars: A Story of the Yukon
"The Triumph of John Kars: A Story of the Yukon" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the hardships and relationships among those living in the harsh and unforgiving Yukon territory, especially focusing on characters like Jessie Mowbray, a young woman anxiously awaiting her father's return from a trade expedition, and Murray McTavish, her father's business partner, whose loyalty and concern for her family are evident. Themes of survival, the tension between civilization and wilderness, and personal sacrifice appear to resonate throughout the story. At the start of the story, we meet Murray McTavish at Fort Mowbray, where he observes Jessie Mowbray anxiously awaiting news of her father, Allan, who is overdue from a trading trip. As the narrative unfolds, the deep emotional connection between Jessie and Murray becomes apparent, alongside Murray's attempts to reassure her about her father's safety. The opening hints at past tensions, specifically surrounding the mysterious dangers of a place called Bell River, which is closely tied to Allan's fate. The story thus establishes a backdrop of apprehension as the dynamics between the characters set the stage for the broader conflicts in the narrative.
The Hound From The North
"The Hound From The North" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a vast, snow-covered landscape of the northern Rocky Mountains and centers around a weary, desperate traveler who finds himself lost in the freezing wilderness. Encountering treacherous conditions and struggling against the deadly cold, he ultimately meets a group of fur-clad Eskimos who save him from a grim fate. At the start of the book, we are introduced to a man on the brink of death from cold and exhaustion as he navigates the treacherous mountains. As he stumbles upon the Eskimos, who rescue him and bring him to safety in their humble dwelling, we see the stark contrast between the harsh wilderness and the faint flicker of hope provided by these unexpected companions. This opening portion sets a tone of survival, resilience, and the harsh realities of life in extreme weather, hinting at the adventures and challenges that are likely to unfold as the story progresses.
The Heart of Unaga
"The Heart of Unaga" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Steve Allenwood, an inspector patrolling an expansive region in the Canadian North, as he embarks on a perilous journey into the wilderness of Unaga after receiving news of two white men’s murder. Along the way, the narrative explores the bonds between Steve and his Indian companions, Julyman and Oolak, as well as the complexities of his relationship with his wife Nita, who struggles with the isolation and hardships of life in the wilderness. The opening of the book establishes a tense atmosphere, as characters share stories around a campfire under the stars. The dialogue between Steve and his Indian companions reflects cultural differences and builds camaraderie, while also hinting at the underlying tension in Steve's domestic life. The narrative transitions to Steve’s concerns about leaving his wife and newborn daughter while he undertakes his daunting mission, showcasing his dedication to duty despite the personal sacrifices it entails. Steve’s relationship with Nita is depicted as complicated, revealing her discontent with the harsh realities of their life together, setting the stage for conflicts yet to come in this high-stakes adventure.
The Luck of the Kid
"The Luck of the Kid" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins in the sub-Arctic wilderness, where two men, one older and one younger, are engaged in a struggle for survival against the oppressive summer heat and the challenges of their environment. As they seek to uncover the secrets of gold in the north, their thoughts reveal a fierce ambition and the dynamics of their familial relationship, particularly between the father and son, as they grapple with feelings of resentment and ambition. The opening of the novel introduces the characters of Marty Le Gros and his son Sate, who are immersed in a quest for gold that they believe has escaped their grasp and fallen into the hands of a rival, a missionary. The tension between their determination to claim their share of wealth and the obstacles they face unfolds against the backdrop of the harsh, beautiful landscapes of northern Canada. As they contemplate their next moves, the foreboding mention of the Euralians, a tribe known for their brutality, foreshadows a deeper conflict that will soon converge on their lives, adding a layer of urgency and danger to the narrative.
The Men Who Wrought
"The Men Who Wrought" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens amidst the backdrop of post-World War I Britain, where the characters grapple with the uncertain peace and the looming threat of future conflicts. The narrative primarily revolves around Sir Andrew Farlow, a wealthy shipowner, and his son Ruxton, who are entangled in discussions about the implications of modern inventions and the state of national security following the recent war. At the start of the novel, we witness a tense dinner conversation between Sir Andrew and Ruxton, who reflect on the failures of their country during the war and the necessity of being vigilant against future threats. They discuss the importance of inventors and innovations in securing the nation, setting the stage for the introduction of a mysterious inventor, Charles Smith. As the opening progresses, we are also introduced to an enigmatic woman named Vita Vladimir, who captivates Ruxton with her beauty and urgent quest for his assistance. Their encounter foreshadows a potentially dangerous adventure, as Vita hints at hidden agendas and risks that are crucial for the future of Britain. The reader is left intrigued by the interwoven plots of national duty and personal intrigue that promise to unfold throughout the novel.
The Son of his Father
"The Son of his Father" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Gordon Carbhoy, a young man who finds himself at a decisive crossroads in life after amassing a significant debt due to his reckless living. His father, a wealthy railroad magnate, offers him one final chance to prove himself by leaving home to earn a substantial amount of money within six months, leading Gordon on an unexpected and challenging journey. At the start of the book, tension simmers between Gordon and his father as they confront his irresponsible behavior and the consequences of his lavish lifestyle. The conversation reveals their deep bond, marked by affection and high expectations. After some heated exchanges, Gordon reluctantly accepts a challenge from his father: to earn $100,000 in twelve months, which he boldly negotiates to six months with a stake of just $5,000. This crucial setup sets him on a path filled with uncertainty as he embarks on a journey to Snake's Fall, where he hopes to find fortune amid the rough and tumble existence of frontier life. The narrative unfolds amidst themes of self-discovery, the struggles of young adulthood, and the stark contrast between privilege and the harsh realities of the world.
In the Brooding Wild
"In the Brooding Wild" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows two brothers, Ralph and Nicol Westley, who live in the rugged, isolated wilderness of the northern Rockies, embracing the life of trappers amidst the vast and often perilous landscape. As they confront the elements and the challenges of survival, their lives are further complicated by the haunting legend of the White Squaw, a mysterious figure entwined with the local Indigenous culture. The beginning of the book paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities of life in the wilderness, interspersed with elements of intrigue and adventure. As a fierce blizzard rages outside their dugout, the Westley brothers hear a human cry echoing through the storm, prompting them to venture out into the chaotic elements to rescue a stranded trader named Victor Gagnon. Following this encounter, the brothers become captivated by Gagnon's tale of the enigmatic White Squaw, igniting a spectrum of emotions and setting them on a path of unexpected exploration. The blend of survival, the allure of romance, and the richness of the wilderness create the initial tension that drives the story forward.
The Story of the Foss River Ranch: A Tale of the Northwest
"The Story of the Foss River Ranch: A Tale of the Northwest" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century that captures the spirit and challenges of life in the Canadian West. The narrative unfolds within the setting of Foss River, focusing on the intertwining lives of ranchers, gamblers, and societal figures as they navigate the trials of love, ambition, and treachery. The primary characters include John Allandale, affectionately known as "Poker" John, and his strong-willed niece, Jacky, whose resilience is challenged by the manipulative Lablache, a local moneylender with dubious intentions. The opening portion introduces readers to the vibrant social scene at a Polo Club ball, where the polished lives of the western elite contrast sharply with the grittier realities of ranch life. John Allandale expresses concern for his niece's well-being, particularly regarding her interactions with Lablache, whose dark ambitions are hinted at through conversations. As the festivities unfold, a sudden blizzard threatens the party, propelling the characters into a fight for survival, thereby establishing a sense of impending danger that foreshadows future conflicts. This introduction sets the stage for the complexities of love, loyalty, and the harshness of the environment that permeates the story.
The Forfeit
"The Forfeit" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around ranchers Jeffrey Masters and Bud Tristram, who are contemplating a significant business deal that could elevate their ranching operations in Montana. Their partnership is tested by external conflicts and personal dynamics, especially involving a mysterious past and deeper emotional connections between the characters, including the arrival of Bud's daughter, Nan. The opening of "The Forfeit" introduces readers to Jeffrey Masters, who is engrossed in planning a major investment in land and livestock, while his companion Bud Tristram appears more relaxed and trusting. Their conversation reveals not only their business ambitions but also hints at a deeper bond of friendship. The mood shifts with the entrance of Nan, whose presence initiates reflections on family and responsibility. Shortly thereafter, Jeffrey receives a letter from his estranged twin brother, Ronald, prompting concerns about their connection. As the plot unfolds, themes of love, duty, and the harsh realities of ranch life emerge, setting the stage for both personal and larger conflicts to follow.
The Man in the Twilight
"The Man in the Twilight" by Ridgwell Cullum is a novel written during the early 20th century. It revolves around a tense narrative set in the early development of a wood-pulp mill in Labrador, focusing on the lives of Leslie Standing and his friend Bat Harker as they confront dangers posed by a powerful adversary, Hellbeam, after Standing's dramatic past comes back to haunt him. The tension escalates with conflicting motivations and the looming threat of retribution, all while Standing's dreams for the future are challenged by unprecedented personal tragedy. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Bat Marker and Leslie Standing, who are discussing an urgent warning concerning Nathaniel Hellbeam, a wealthy and ruthless figure from Standing's past. As Bat expresses his concern about the imminent danger Hellbeam poses, Standing displays a calm demeanor that hints at his philosophical nature, battling deep internal fears. The conversation reveals their shared history, the mill they built together, and the challenges they anticipate as forces conspire against them. The stakes rise as they prepare for conflict, foreshadowing a fight not just for their livelihood, but ultimately a personal battle for Standing to protect everything he has built—both in business and in life.