Author
John Fox
1862-1919
John Fox (1862-1919) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by John Fox
The Trail of the Lonesome Pine
"The Trail of the Lonesome Pine" by Jr. John Fox is a romance novel published in 1908. Set in the Appalachian Mountains, the story unfolds amid a decades-long blood feud between two mountain families. When outsider geologist John Hale arrives seeking coal and fortune, he becomes captivated by the beautiful June Tolliver and entangled in local conflicts. As industrialization threatens old mountain ways, June must choose between clan loyalty and love, while Hale's push for law and order clashes with century-old traditions.
A Knight of the Cumberland
"A Knight of the Cumberland" by John Fox, Jr. is a novel written during the early 20th century that immerses readers in the rugged beauty and culture of the Cumberland Mountains. The narrative focuses on the adventures of the main characters as they venture into the wilds of these Appalachian hills, exploring themes of innocence, social dynamics, and the clash between different cultures. Central to the story is a captivating character known as "the Blight," a young woman whose charm and grace captivate those around her, while her companions, including a narrator and a little sister, experience the intricacies of life in this isolated yet vibrant setting. At the start of the novel, we accompany the narrator, his sister, and the Blight as they traverse the rugged terrain of the Cumberland Mountains on a sunny October day. The journey is not just a physical one but also a passage into a world filled with colorful mountaineers, social tensions, and hints of feuds and moonshining. The narrator describes the Blight's enchanting presence, contrasting her sophistication with the ruggedness of the setting and the people they encounter. From moments of playful joy to encounters that reveal the darker side of hill life, the opening establishes a vivid backdrop where social class, charm, and danger intersect, setting the stage for the unfolding drama and adventures that lie ahead.
The Little Shepherd of Kingdom Come
"The Little Shepherd of Kingdom Come" by John Fox, Jr. is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a young boy named Chad, who is faced with loss and the challenge of survival in the rugged mountains of Kentucky after losing his family to a devastating plague. In search of freedom and companionship, Chad sets off on a journey filled with adventures, aiming to break free from the oppressive hold of old Nathan Cherry, who wishes to bind him as a servant. The beginning of this novel introduces us to Chad as he grapples with the haunting loneliness and heartache of his recent loss. We see him mourn at the graves of his family and struggle with the impending decision to leave the only home he's known. Despite his initial despair, Chad quickly resolves to escape the clutches of Nathan and run away with his dog, Jack. The narrative paints vivid imagery of the natural landscape and immerses readers into the emotional turmoil of a boy on the cusp of manhood, setting the stage for his subsequent adventures and encounters with new friends, foes, and the world beyond his mountains. The opening chapters lay a strong foundation for the themes of resilience, friendship, and the quest for belonging that will unfold throughout Chad's journey.
The Heart of the Hills
"The Heart of the Hills" by John Fox, Jr. is a novel written during the early 20th century. Set in the mountains of Kentucky, the narrative explores themes of family feuds, love, and the impact of change on traditional rural life. The story revolves around young Jason Hawn and his cousin Mavis Honeycutt, as they navigate the complexities of their family’s contentious history and their own budding relationship against a backdrop of societal transformation. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the serene but tense world of the Hawn and Honeycutt families, whose longstanding feud shapes the lives of the children. Jason, portrayed as a determined and prideful boy, struggles with his identity as he grapples with the rivalry that dictates his and Mavis’s existence. A seemingly innocent day of fishing leads to revelations about their families' painful past, courtship dynamics, and external threats from outsiders seeking to exploit the land's resources. Their playful adventures soon intertwine with the harsh realities of their conflict-ridden heritage, setting the stage for a story filled with emotional depth and moral dilemmas.
A Cumberland Vendetta
"A Cumberland Vendetta" by John Fox Jr. is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the tumultuous Appalachian Mountains, where it chronicles the violent feud between two families, the Stetsons and the Lewallens, against the backdrop of the rugged wilderness. Central to the narrative are Rome Stetson, a conflicted young man torn between family loyalty and personal feelings, and Martha Lewallen, the daughter of his family's rival, who becomes a pivotal figure in the unfolding drama. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Rome and his half-brother Isom as they navigate their daily lives in the woods. The opening chapters hint at the simmering tensions between the Stetsons and the Lewallens, touching on themes of childhood innocence, attempts to escape violence, and the complexities of familial loyalty. Martha Lewallen's entrance into the story adds a layer of personal conflict as Rome grapples with a burgeoning connection to her, even amidst the feuds and enmities that define their families. As Rome's mother anxiously awaits a chance for retribution for past wrongs, the specter of violence looms over the narrative, building a sense of impending conflict as loyalties are tested and fates intertwine.
Hell Fer Sartain and Other Stories
"Hell Fer Sartain and Other Stories" by John Fox Jr. is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century, capturing the essence of Appalachian life and culture. The narratives explore the lives of mountain people in Kentucky, featuring themes of love, rivalry, and the complex moral fabric of rural communities. This book provides a glimpse into a world shaped by nature's challenges, human emotions, and the underlying tension of personal relationships. The stories within this collection, including the titular tale "Hell Fer Sartain," interweave various characters and their experiences in the backwoods of Kentucky. Skillfully narrated, the stories showcase the interpersonal dramas that arise from misunderstandings and the consequences of gossip, illustrated through the relationships between characters like Rich Harp, Harve Hall, and the enigmatic Abe Shivers. With vibrant descriptions and poignant dialogue, the collection delves into themes of honor, betrayal, and resilience, while painting a vivid picture of the rural Southern landscape. Throughout the narratives, Fox's use of dialect brings authenticity to the characters, capturing the unique flavor of their lives and the moral dilemmas they navigate in a sometimes unforgiving environment.
The Last Stetson
"The Last Stetson" by John Fox Jr. is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the Appalachian Mountains, depicting the longstanding feud between the Stetson and Lewallen families. The narrative examines themes of conflict, vengeance, and the possibility of redemption against a backdrop of rural life and evolving societal norms. The plot centers around Isom, a young boy of mixed lineage, who is caught in the crossfire of the ancient feud that has led to bloodshed and deep-seated animosities. After witnessing a pivotal moment in the feud, Isom grapples with the weight of his actions, having shot in defense of his brother Rome. As the story progresses, Isom confronts various characters, including Eli Crump, a spy for the rival family, and Steve Marcum, with whom he forms a complex bond. The arrival of a new preacher, Sherd Raines, ignites hope for reconciliation, prompting Isom to question notions of forgiveness and vengeance. Ultimately, Isom's struggle for identity and moral clarity leads him toward a heart-wrenching climax that challenges the cycle of violence and sets the stage for potential resolution and reconciliation in a community overshadowed by its past.
Following the Sun-Flag: A Vain Pursuit Through Manchuria
"Following the Sun-Flag: A Vain Pursuit Through Manchuria" by John Fox Jr. is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the author's journey to Japan, where he aims to report on the Japanese military in the context of the Russo-Japanese War. It focuses on the author's observations and experiences, particularly emphasizing the cultural nuances of the Japanese people and their intense patriotism during a time of conflict. The opening of the book introduces the author as he reflects on his time in Japan and the war that looms in the background. As he arrives in Yokohama, he is immediately struck by the atmosphere that masks the realities of war, observing the everyday life and customs of the Japanese. The narrative sets the stage for his quest to understand the values and characteristics of the Japanese soldiers, exploring themes of honor, sacrifice, and the stark contrasts between Japanese and Western cultural norms. Through his experiences, Fox paints a vivid picture of both the beauty of the land and the deep-seated emotions tied to national identity during wartime.
Christmas Eve on Lonesome and Other Stories
"Christmas Eve on Lonesome and Other Stories" by John Fox, Jr. is a collection of short stories published in the early 20th century that explores themes of love, vengeance, and the complexity of human emotions, all set against the backdrop of the Appalachian region. The opening story introduces a character named Buck, who contemplates his past filled with regret and a desire for revenge as he navigates a snowy landscape during Christmas Eve, only to be confronted by unexpected emotional ties that change the course of his intentions. The beginning of "Christmas Eve on Lonesome" sets a vivid scene as the reader is introduced to Buck, a man haunted by memories of betrayal and the loss of his family, as he prepares to confront an enemy he has longed to punish. As he rides through the snow, Buck’s thoughts drift from his vengeance to the light in his enemy's window, which reveals a painful connection to his past: the woman he loved, once thought to be lost to him, is now married to the man he blames for his suffering. As Buck witnesses a child playing in the warm light of that home, he is torn between his desire for retribution and the realization that love and forgiveness may be more potent than hate. This opening sets the tone for the emotional and moral dilemmas that run throughout the collection.
Crittenden: A Kentucky Story of Love and War
"Crittenden: A Kentucky Story of Love and War" by John Fox Jr. is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set during the backdrop of the Spanish-American War and follows the protagonist, Clay Crittenden, a young man wrestling with his personal identity and the legacies of his family's involvement in various wars. Throughout the narrative, themes of love, duty, and the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations are intricately woven as Clay navigates his feelings for Judith Page amidst the looming threat of war. The opening of the book introduces Clay Crittenden as he returns home to Kentucky after a month spent in the backwoods. There is a palpable sense of internal conflict; Clay grapples with his past struggles and the prospect of another war, hinted at by the arrival of a call for volunteers. The serene beauty of the spring landscape contrasts with the heaviness of wartime memories and familial expectations. As he reflects on his heritage—his family's history of fighting in wars—Clay realizes he must confront not only the external battles around him but also the personal turmoil tied to his unfulfilled love for Judith Page. This sets the stage for an exploration of Clay's character as he stands at the crossroads of duty, service, and love.
A Mountain Europa
"A Mountain Europa" by John Fox, Jr. is a novel set in the southern Appalachian mountains, possibly written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows a young man named Clayton who finds himself intertwined in the rustic life of the mountains, becoming intrigued by a unique young woman named Easter Hicks. As he navigates the complexities of mountain culture, he grapples with themes of love, identity, and the encroachment of civilization on traditional ways of life. The opening of the novel introduces Clayton as he embarks on a descent from the mountain, having experienced a moment of serene connection with nature. He encounters Easter while she playfully rides a bull, showcasing her strong will and the unusual customs of her rural upbringing. Their initial interaction is charged with curiosity and tension; Clayton is surprised by her forthrightness compared to other mountain women. As he becomes more involved in the community and begins to learn about Easter's life, including her resilience amidst challenges, the reader is drawn into a blossoming narrative of attraction and adventure set against the backdrop of changing societal landscapes in the mountains.
Erskine Dale—Pioneer
"Erskine Dale—Pioneer" by John Fox, Jr. is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Erskine Dale, a young boy who has grown up in the wilderness and has both Native American and White heritage. As the narrative unfolds, it explores themes of identity, belonging, and the clash of cultures as Erskine navigates life between the worlds of the frontier and colonial society. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to a rich, evocative wilderness setting at dawn, where we meet various characters within a fort that is inhabited by settlers. We witness the daily life and interactions among the inhabitants, including Erskine, whose background as a boy raised by Native Americans adds depth to his character. Amidst the banter, camaraderie, and preparations for potential dangers from Native American tribes, we see budding relationships develop, particularly as the prospect of attack becomes imminent. Upon the arrival of a young Native boy who seeks refuge at the fort, the complexity of belonging and cultural ties begins to take shape, leading to a gripping context for Erskine's adventures ahead.
In Happy Valley
"In Happy Valley" by John Fox, Jr. is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the beautiful yet rugged mountains of Kentucky and follows the lives of the residents of Happy Valley, a community characterized by its unique dialect, culture, and challenges. The narrative explores themes of love, conflict, and community dynamics, primarily through the experiences of strong-willed characters. The opening portion introduces the lively and independent character Allaphair who navigates the social dynamics of Happy Valley. As the children and citizens pour out from an open-air meeting-house, Allaphair catches the eye of the newcomer, a timid schoolteacher named Ira Combs, and the brash mountaineer Jay Dawn, who pursues her with an aggressive interest. There is an immediate tension as Allaphair asserts her strength, refusing to conform to the expectations of traditional courtship with either man. Through these interactions, we see her fierce independence contrasted with Ira's quieter demeanor and Jay's bold advances, setting the stage for a story that will delve into relationships, pride, and the spirited lives of these mountain folk.