Author
J. S. (Joseph Smith) Fletcher
1863-1935
J. S. (Joseph Smith) Fletcher (1863-1935) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by J. S. (Joseph Smith) Fletcher
Baden-Powell of Mafeking
"Baden-Powell of Mafeking" by J. S. Fletcher is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the life and career of Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell, focusing particularly on his experiences during the Siege of Mafeking and highlighting his character as a British officer. The narrative examines his childhood, military endeavors, and the qualities that contributed to his legendary status. The opening of the work sets the stage by introducing Baden-Powell and his family background, emphasizing the strong influence of his mother and the distinguished heritage from which he comes. It paints a picture of Baden-Powell as a cheerful and resourceful boy with various interests, from art and theatre to exploration. The text not only outlines his early education but also prepares the reader for his transition into military life, outlining the foundational qualities that would later define him as a leader during critical military campaigns. The initial chapters aim to build a character sketch that emphasizes humor, resilience, and a certain boyish charm, all of which will inform his later actions in the theater of war.
The Paradise Mystery
"The Paradise Mystery" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written during the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the picturesque cathedral town of Wrychester, where the protagonist, Dr. Mark Ransford, navigates the complexities of his life as a guardian to two young wards, Mary and Richard Bewery. The narrative begins with an ominous incident that sets the tone for a tale steeped in intrigue, personal relationships, and the quest for truth, as it explores the dark undercurrents that threaten the serene facade of this historic setting. The opening of "The Paradise Mystery" introduces the idyllic beauty of Wrychester, contrasted sharply by the tension that soon arises. Breakfast at the home of Ransford with his wards is interrupted by the arrival of a mysterious stranger, who later becomes the center of a tragic event. After being seen entering the cathedral, he is found dead, having seemingly been thrown from the clerestory gallery, leading to questions about his identity and his connection to Ransford. As layers of secrecy and interaction between the characters unfold, the reader is drawn into a web of potential motives and hidden truths, foreshadowing a gripping mystery that intertwines the past with the present.
The Orange-Yellow Diamond
"The Orange-Yellow Diamond" by J. S. Fletcher is a novel set in the early 20th century, specifically around 1921. The story follows the struggles of Andrew Lauriston, a young literary aspirant whose life is marked by poverty and ambition. As he experiences the challenges of making a name for himself in London, he becomes entangled in a mystery involving pawnbrokers, precious jewels, and a suspicious death. At the start of the novel, we find Lauriston in a dire situation, having exhausted his funds and on the brink of hunger. He decides to pawn his father’s gold watch to alleviate his immediate financial concerns. In the pawnbroker's shop, he encounters Zillah, the attractive granddaughter of the pawnbroker, who makes an impression on him. Shortly thereafter, Lauriston discovers the lifeless body of the old pawnbroker, Daniel Multenius, leading him into a web of suspicion and intrigue involving a potential murder. This opening portion sets the tone for the mystery that unfolds and introduces key characters, highlighting Lauriston's desperation and the complex social dynamics at play.
Lucian the dreamer
"Lucian the Dreamer" by J. S. Fletcher is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the life of a young boy named Lucian, who is depicted as a dreamer and thinker rather than a doer. Set against the backdrop of rural England during a time reminiscent of the post-Boer War era, the story explores Lucian's experiences as he navigates love, art, and personal growth while under the care of his uncle and aunt. The opening of the book introduces Lucian arriving at a small railway station, where he is greeted by his uncle, Mr. Pepperdine. The scene captures the sense of nostalgia and quiet beauty of the English countryside, as the boy explores his new surroundings in the village of Wellsby. Lucian is described as observant and somewhat precocious, and as he engages with the local characters, including his welcoming relatives and the kindly Mrs. Trippett, the warmth of rural life emerges. Through Lucian's keen gaze and artistic temperament, the reader gets a glimpse into the boy's complex inner world, setting up a narrative rich with themes of youth, artistic exploration, and the poignant dynamics of family bonds.
Mr. Poskitt's Nightcaps: Stories of a Yorkshire Farmer
"Mr. Poskitt's Nightcaps: Stories of a Yorkshire Farmer" by J. S. Fletcher is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The book is framed around the character of Mr. Poskitt, a jovial Yorkshire farmer known for regaling his guests with tales from his life and the countryside, blending humor and tragedy in equal measure. Each story offers a glimpse into the rural life of Yorkshire, examining the joys, sorrows, and eccentricities of its people. The opening of the book introduces us to Mr. Poskitt's character and sets the stage for his storytelling. It describes the welcoming environment of Poskitt's home, where he serves hearty meals before settling in to share tales of his experiences over a nightcap. The narrative then shifts to High Elms Farm, which has fallen into disrepair and is rumored to be haunted, as two twin brothers, Isaac and Simpson Greaves, explore the eerie property with plans to rent it. The solicitor reveals past tenants' terrifying experiences linked to the unexplained happenings on the farm, setting up a suspenseful premise for the stories to come. This blend of local lore and charming character study draws readers into a world rich with narrative potential and rural charm.
The Markenmore Mystery
"The Markenmore Mystery" by J. S. Fletcher is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the beleaguered Markenmore family, particularly focusing on the complex relationships among Sir Anthony Markenmore, his children Harry and Valencia, and the enigmatic figure of Guy Markenmore, the estranged elder son who re-emerges just before a series of tragic events unfold. The novel hints at secrets, family tensions, and the unsettling atmosphere that surrounds Markenmore Court. The opening of the novel introduces us to Braxfield, the loyal butler of Markenmore Court, as he performs his nightly duties of securing the estate. On this particular evening, he unexpectedly encounters John Harborough, a family friend who has just returned home after a long absence, and learns that Sir Anthony is gravely ill. There's a palpable sense of decay and change in the family dynamic as Harborough and Braxfield discuss the whereabouts of Guy, their estranged elder brother, who has not been seen for seven years. The atmosphere becomes even more charged when Braxfield later receives a familiar knock at the pantry window, which heralds the return of Guy himself—setting the stage for the mysteries, revelations, and dark events that begin to unfold as the family grapples with its past.
The copper box
"The Copper Box" by J. S. Fletcher is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a wild Border country in northern England, and introduces the protagonist, Alvery Craye, who becomes entangled in a mysterious adventure after getting lost in a snowstorm and seeking refuge in an unusual old house called Kelpieshaw. There, he meets the enchanting Madrasia Durham and her guardian, Mr. Parslewe, but soon finds himself caught up in a web of intrigue surrounding a peculiar copper box that holds more significance than it appears. The opening of the book sets the stage for a classic mystery. Alvery Craye embarks on a challenging trek through harsh weather conditions, ultimately leading him to the doors of Kelpieshaw, an ancient and peculiar dwelling. There, he encounters a stern housekeeper and a radiant young woman, Madrasia, who invites him to stay. As Alvery warms up in the cozy parlour, he learns about the curious dynamics between the characters—particularly the eccentric guardian and the mysterious box, which seems to draw attention from various visitors, including the ominous Mr. Pawley and a figure he later discovers to be Sir Charles Sperrigoe. The narrative captures the tension and foreboding surrounding the box, promising readers an engaging journey into a world of secrets and suspense.
Scarhaven Keep
"Scarhaven Keep" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative opens with the sudden disappearance of a renowned actor, Bassett Oliver, who mysteriously goes missing just after he arrives in Scarhaven for a theatrical engagement. The primary focus is on Jerramy, the stage-door keeper, and the actors and management team who are thrown into disarray by Oliver's absence, especially Richard Copplestone, the author of a play Oliver was to produce. As the search for him unfolds, the plot thickens with various characters embroiled in a web of suspicion and potential motives. At the start of the novel, we meet Jerramy, a familiar face at the Theatre Royal in Norcaster, who interacts with the anxious business manager of Bassett Oliver, Mr. Stafford. They are both concerned when Oliver fails to arrive for a crucial rehearsal after a weekend absence. As they begin to investigate, it becomes clear that Oliver had been seen heading towards Scarhaven Keep after visiting a local inn, raising questions about his fate. The opening chapters set the stage for a thickening plot of intrigue, introducing multiple characters who may be connected to Oliver’s disappearance, including members of the local community and even the Squire of Scarhaven. The narrative promises an unfolding mystery steeped in drama, suspicion, and the lure of hidden truths about the enigmatic coastal town of Scarhaven.
In the Mayor's Parlour
"In the Mayor's Parlour" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds in the quaint town of Hathelsborough, where the newly elected Mayor, Councillor John Wallingford, is found murdered in his office shortly after taking office. The story introduces various characters, including Wallingford's cousin Richard Brent, who becomes involved in unraveling the mystery behind the Mayor's untimely death, a crime that may be rooted in political conflicts within the town. The opening of the novel paints a vivid picture of Hathelsborough's historic setting and the tension that lies beneath its surface. It starts with an atmospheric description of the town, highlighting its old architecture and traditions. The protagonist, Bunning, the caretaker of the Moot Hall, is introduced as he interacts with Wallingford before the Mayor enters his parlour alone. Right away, the narrative shifts dramatically as Wallingford's cousin, Richard Brent, discovers him dead, revealing that his murder occurred within a seemingly secure environment. This shocking moment sets the stage for a deep investigation into the killer's identity, as Brent aims to uncover the motives for the crime amidst political intrigue and hidden animosities in a town reluctant to share its secrets.
The Herapath Property
"The Herapath Property" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Jacob Herapath, a wealthy and particular Member of Parliament who has mysteriously disappeared, which sparks a police investigation filled with intrigue and suspicion. The main characters include Selwood, Herapath's secretary, Peggie Wynne, his devoted niece, and Mr. Tertius, a close associate who seems to hold secrets about Herapath's life and death. The opening of the novel establishes a tense mystery as Selwood is abruptly called to Herapath’s home early in the morning to learn of his employer's unexpected absence. The narrative unfolds through his interactions with the household staff, leading to the discovery that Herapath was last seen returning home after a night at the House of Commons, yet he is unaccounted for, and his room shows suspicious signs. As suspense builds, Selwood discovers that Herapath has indeed been found dead, raising questions of suicide or murder. The juxtaposition of his movements creates a compelling enigma, setting the stage for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Herapath's untimely death.
The Root of All Evil
"The Root of All Evil" by J. S. Fletcher is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the Farnish family, particularly the two daughters, Jecholiah (Jeckie) and Jerusha (Rushie), who are struggling to hold their father's farm, Applecroft, together amid financial ruin and mismanagement. The narrative explores themes of poverty, familial responsibility, and the struggle for a better life, as Jeckie takes charge of her family's fate in the face of their dire circumstances. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Applecroft, a once-vibrant farm now neglected and on the verge of collapse due to the irresponsibility of William Farnish, their father. We meet the determined Jeckie, who is committed to keeping the family afloat through her hard work, and her more carefree sister, Rushie. As William confesses that he has taken loans from a moneylender and hasn't paid rent, Jeckie resolves to take action, seeking support from their neighbours and familiar acquaintances to remedy their situation. The tension builds when Jeckie confronts the reality of their debts and the impending arrival of bailiffs, setting the stage for her battle against poverty and the pursuit of a way to save her family.
The Charing Cross Mystery
"The Charing Cross Mystery" by J. S. Fletcher is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Hetherwick, a young barrister, who becomes embroiled in a mysterious case involving the sudden death of an ex-police superintendent, Robert Hannaford, on the last train to Charing Cross. As Hetherwick investigates the circumstances surrounding Hannaford's death, he encounters a cast of intriguing characters and begins to unravel a complex web of secrets, including a mysterious portrait and the question of foul play. At the start of the narrative, Hetherwick catches the last train home and soon finds himself captivated by two men who enter his compartment. One of the men, a burly figure, suddenly suffers a seizure and dies just moments after expressing excitement about an old portrait connected to a woman he once knew. Hetherwick quickly realizes that something is amiss when the other, a sallow-faced man, makes a hurried exit before any help arrives. As the story unfolds, Hetherwick learns that Hannaford was not only involved in a suspicious death but that he was also potentially entangled in a pursuit of a fortune linked to an invention he was developing prior to his demise. In a search for answers, Hetherwick pursues leads that connect Hannaford's past, his granddaughter Rhona, and a captivating but elusive woman from years ago.
The Rayner-Slade Amalgamation
"The Rayner-Slade Amalgamation" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative begins with Marshall Allerdyke, a successful manufacturer, who receives an urgent telegram from his cousin James Allerdyke asking him to meet at a hotel in Hull. Upon arrival, Marshall discovers that James has died under mysterious circumstances, which leads him to suspect foul play and embark on an investigation to unveil the truth surrounding his cousin's death. The opening portion of the book introduces Marshall, his cousin James, and the immediate circumstances following James's death. After finding that James is dead in his hotel room, Marshall's suspicion grows as he attempts to piece together the events leading up to the incident. The dialogue between characters reveals James’s recent business dealings, including possible connections to valuable jewels and a mysterious princess. This sets the stage for a deeper intrigue involving theft, murder, and manipulation, suggesting an intricate web of relationships and dangers that Marshall must navigate as the story unfolds.
The Middle Temple Murder
"The Middle Temple Murder" by J. S. Fletcher is a detective novel written in the early 20th century, specifically during the post-World War I era. The book centers around the mysterious death of an elderly man found dead in Middle Temple Lane, captivating readers with its intrigue and investigation. The story follows Frank Spargo, a newspaper sub-editor, who finds himself drawn into the murder investigation, particularly as he uncovers the connection of the victim, John Marbury, to the legal profession and the character Ronald Breton. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Spargo, who, after finishing a night shift at the newspaper office, stumbles upon a police scene where a man is reported dead. Intrigued by the circumstances, he learns that Marbury was found in a rather suspicious position, suggesting foul play. Spargo begins to piece together clues, including a scrap of paper from Marbury’s pocket with Breton’s name and address, indicating a potential connection between them. As the story unfolds, it explores themes of deception, intrigue, and the workings of the legal world as Spargo and Breton try to determine what led to Marbury’s untimely death. The opening portion effectively sets the stage for a complex mystery filled with unexpected connections and a quest for truth.
The Middle of Things
"The Middle of Things" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Richard Viner, a young gentleman who finds himself entangled in a murder mystery when he discovers a body in a dark passageway near his home. The opening chapters introduce a clever interplay between Viner and his aunt, Miss Bethia Penkridge, who has a fascination with sensational fiction, which runs parallel to the unfolding real-life crime. At the start of the novel, Viner spends an evening reading to his aunt, only to later witness a shocking murder as he takes his customary late-night stroll. The victim is soon identified as Mr. Ashton, a man of mysterious background and wealth, who has just arrived from Australia. As the police investigate, and Viner becomes a key witness, the story unfolds with layers of intrigue surrounding Ashton's life, including references to a secret that could potentially impact influential families in England. The opening portion effectively sets up a highly engaging mystery filled with suspense and various characters whose connections to the deceased promise further developments in the plot.
The Chestermarke Instinct
"The Chestermarke Instinct" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Wallington Neale, a bank clerk in the sleepy town of Scarnham, who is thrust into a perplexing situation when his manager, John Horbury, goes missing under suspicious circumstances. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of potential intrigue involving theft and possibly darker events, as characters around Neale begin to speculate on the manager's fate. At the start of the novel, the main character grapples with the monotony of his banking job while a beautiful spring day stirs his adventurous spirit. However, this serenity is shattered when Neale discovers that Horbury has not come to work as expected, leading to growing concerns about the bank manager's whereabouts. The opening chapters introduce us to Neale's routine, his familiarity with the town, and his concerns about Horbury's sudden absence, setting the stage for a complex mystery that involves missing securities and the manager's unexplained disappearance. As Neale and others begin to investigate, the intrigue deepens, hinting at twists and turns that will keep readers engaged.
Ravensdene Court
"Ravensdene Court" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds as the protagonist, Leonard Middlebrook, receives an invitation to Ravensdene Court, an old manor house in Northumberland, to evaluate a vast collection of antiquarian books. Upon arrival, he encounters a chilling mystery involving the murder of Salter Quick, a seafaring man, setting the tone for a tale filled with secrets and intrigue. At the start of the narrative, Middlebrook embarks on a journey to Ravensdene Court and receives a letter from Francis Raven, the new owner, inviting him to explore the extensive library left behind by Raven's uncle. As he walks along the dramatic Northumbrian coastline, he meets Salter Quick, who is searching for gravestones of his ancestors. Shortly after their conversation, Middlebrook discovers Quick's lifeless body on the beach, revealing the gruesome act of murder. The discovery raises questions about the connections between Quick and another man also seeking the same family name—Netherfield. This opening sets the stage for a layered mystery as Middlebrook becomes entangled in the search for answers surrounding the crimes linked to the past and the secrets of Ravensdene Court.
Markenmoren salaisuus
"Markenmoren salaisuus" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Markenmore family, particularly their old steward Braxfield, who maintains the family estate while its owners decline in fortune and involvement. The narrative begins with the unexpected return of John Harborough, a character linked to the family's complicated history, suggesting underlying tensions and unresolved mysteries within the family's past, particularly regarding the missing eldest son, Guy Markenmore. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Braxfield, the dedicated steward of the Markenmore estate, who is strict in his duties and protective of the family’s valuables. With characters such as the sickly Sir Anthony Markenmore, his estranged son Guy who has been missing for years, and the return of John Harborough, it is evident that familial secrets and long-buried tensions threaten to resurface. The initial scenes set a somber, suspenseful tone, establishing the setting of the estate and the relationships within the family, while hinting toward larger plot developments involving the mysterious disappearance of Guy and the return of the striking Mrs. Tretheroe, who has her own connections to the past.
The Borough Treasurer
"The Borough Treasurer" by J. S. Fletcher is a murder mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character Milford Cotherstone, the Borough Treasurer, who finds himself in a precarious situation when his tenant, the elderly Mr. Kitely, is found dead under suspicious circumstances. As the plot unfolds, themes of blackmail, buried secrets, and the consequences of past actions surface, as Cotherstone grapples with the fear of his dark history being exposed. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Highmarket, the town where the story takes place, and the main characters, including Cotherstone and his partner Mallalieu. The plot kicks off with a tense encounter between Cotherstone and Kitely, who reveals that he recognizes Cotherstone from a conviction thirty years prior, leading to implications of blackmail. The opening builds a sense of impending dread as Kitely is later found dead, raising questions about Cotherstone's involvement and his desperate need to keep his former life hidden. The stage is set for a gripping investigation into murder and corruption, with Cotherstone's precarious position at its center.
Välkehtivä Rubiini
"Välkehtivä Rubiini" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with a desperate protagonist who finds himself in a precarious situation at Portsmouth’s Clarence Quay, hoping to earn a shilling for a telegram request. He encounters a mysterious stranger who hands him a message intended for a man named Holliment, which leads him into a web of intrigue involving danger and potential crime. At the start of the narrative, the main character is in dire straits, having spent his last pennies to reach the quay in hopes of finding work. After seizing the opportunity to deliver a message for a hurried stranger, he is soon drawn into a world of secrets surrounding Holliment's eclectic store. As he navigates through odd encounters and hints of danger, he grapples with unanswered questions about the significance of the message he's carrying, the peculiarities of the people he meets, and the mysterious circumstances that seem to envelop his new role as Holliment’s temporary assistant. The plot is infused with suspense, suggesting that the protagonist's seemingly simple task is fraught with unexpected and potentially perilous implications.
In the Days of Drake
"In the Days of Drake" by J. S. Fletcher is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the Elizabethan era during the age of exploration and maritime heroism, centering around the adventures of a young man named Humphrey Salkeld. As the narrative begins, the old Humphrey Salkeld reflects on his youth and the remarkable adventure he experienced during the late 1570s, highlighting themes of valor, rivalry, and the spirit of the time. The opening portion introduces us to the protagonist, Humphrey, who has settled down in his later years but feels compelled to recount his past exploits, particularly the period of his adolescence spent at Beechcot under the guardianship of his Uncle Sir Thurstan. From the outset, we learn of the complexities of Humphrey's relationships, particularly with his cousin Jasper Stapleton, fueled by rivalry regarding inheritance and their mutual affection for Rose Herrick. The conflict intensifies as they both vie for Rose's attention amidst tensions between their respective households, setting the stage for adventures filled with intrigue and the backdrop of the perilous Elizabethan world filled with opportunity and danger.
The Talleyrand Maxim
"The Talleyrand Maxim" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Linford Pratt, a young clerk with aspirations for wealth and power, who suddenly finds himself entangled in a secret involving a long-lost will belonging to a recently deceased local magnate, John Mallathorpe. As Pratt navigates this newfound opportunity, he must contend with moral dilemmas and the unpredictable consequences of his ambitions. The opening of the book sets up an intriguing narrative, beginning with Linford Pratt as he recognizes an impending opportunity for advancement in his mundane life. He encounters Antony Bartle, an elderly antiquarian bookseller, who reveals he has discovered Mallathorpe's will, sealed in a book he purchased from the estate. However, just as they begin to discuss the will's implications, Bartle unexpectedly dies, leaving Pratt as the sole keeper of this vital secret. As the story unfolds, Pratt is faced with choices that could lead him to fortune but also entail deceit and potential ruin, especially as he learns more about the will's significance for Mallathorpe's heirs.
Lynne Courtin salaisuus
"Lynne Courtin salaisuus" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young doctor named Hextall, who is called upon to attend to a woman named Paquita Tress after an incident involving a gunshot wound. As the narrative unfolds, it hints at complicated relationships and unsettling dynamics among a group of individuals, including Paquita's brother and a mysterious acquaintance named Kesteven. The opening of the book introduces Hextall as he struggles to enter his home late at night, only to be interrupted by a frantic messenger seeking medical help for Paquita Tress, who has allegedly shot herself. As Hextall rushes to her aid, the scene quickly reveals tensions and intrigues involving gambling, jealousy, and the potential for deeper deceit amidst the wealthy elite. The incident appears to be more than a mere accident, highlighting underlying motivations and relationships, particularly between Paquita and her brother, Darrell Tress, as well as the enigmatic Kesteven, raising questions about loyalty and betrayal from the very start of the narrative.
Dead Men's Money
"Dead Men's Money" by J. S. Fletcher is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young man named Hugh Moneylaws, whose life takes a dramatic turn when a suspicious lodger, James Gilverthwaite, comes to stay at his mother’s home. As events unfold, the plot thickens with themes of murder, secrets, and a significant amount of money that complicates the situation further. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Hugh Moneylaws, who observes the enigmatic Gilverthwaite arriving at their home. The man, boasting of wealth and mysterious origins, soon engages Hugh in secretive dealings that set the stage for impending danger. After a series of unusual occurrences, including Gilverthwaite falling ill and sending Hugh to deliver a message under dubious circumstances, the narrative escalates when Hugh discovers a murdered man near the appointed meeting place. Caught in a web of intrigue involving money and unresolved identities, Hugh must navigate the chaos that unfolds, leading him into the depths of a perilous mystery.