Author
William Alexander Fraser
1859-1933
William Alexander Fraser (1859-1933) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by William Alexander Fraser
Bulldog Carney
"Bulldog Carney" by William Alexander Fraser is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a gritty Western environment and centers around the character of Bulldog Carney, a notorious bandit who navigates the dangerous landscape of crime, law, and moral dilemmas. The narrative explores themes of lawlessness, redemption, and the complexities of human nature as it unfolds against the backdrop of early Canadian frontier life. The opening of "Bulldog Carney" introduces the main character, Cameron, who is depicted as a frustrated figure amid the chaos of a rough bar in Edmonton. The atmosphere is charged with tension as the arrival of Bulldog Carney, a known outlaw, incites fear among the bar patrons, particularly in a lean-faced man named Jack Wolf. The stage is set for impending conflict as the characters intertwine in a web of relationships involving crime, authority, and a quest for redemption. As the story progresses, the dynamics between the men, their motivations, and their pasts become key elements that drive the plot forward, hinting at complex interactions and potential betrayals in this rugged environment.
Thoroughbreds
"Thoroughbreds" by William Alexander Fraser is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the quaint village of Brookfield, highlighting the lives of two key characters, John Porter, an avid horse racing enthusiast known for his integrity, and the Reverend Dolman, his moral adversary who harbors disdain for the sport. The book explores family dynamics, particularly the differing allegiances within the Porter household regarding horse racing, and sets up a narrative that intertwines personal passions with the looming specter of societal judgment. The opening of "Thoroughbreds" introduces readers to a tension-filled community where horse racing has re-emerged as a controversial topic. We meet John Porter, whose love for racing stands in stark contrast to the disapproving views of his wife and Reverend Dolman. This spectacle leads to a successful church concert where burnished emotions are stirred by a poem recited by their daughter, Allison, about a noteworthy horse, Crusader. The narrative soon transitions into a tense race at Morris Park, amplifying the stakes for Porter as he delves deeper into the world of competitive racing, intertwined with suspicion and the potential for betrayal. As the story escalates, themes of honesty, family loyalty, and moral conflict begin to take shape in a world where the noble sport of horse racing is shadowed by corruption and greed.
Mooswa & Others of the Boundaries
"Mooswa & Others of the Boundaries" by William Alexander Fraser is a collection of stories written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the lives and adventures of various woodland animals living in the lush Northern forests of Canada, particularly through the perspective of Mooswa, the Moose, and his fellow creatures. The narrative intertwines their communal experiences, struggles, and interactions with both nature and human threats, emphasizing themes of survival and cooperation among the animal kingdom. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the character Mooswa and his friends in the "Boundaries," a vibrant natural world rich with flora and fauna. An important event is preparing for their annual meeting where they will choose a king and discuss matters affecting their lives. The initial assembly brings forth dynamic characters like the clever Black Fox and the comical Whisky-Jack, providing glimpses into their personalities and relationships. Here, we learn about their daily lives, their fears of human trappers, and the cultural importance of the natural law that governs their existence, setting the stage for the conflicts and adventures that will unfold throughout the collection.
The Three Sapphires
"The Three Sapphires" by William Alexander Fraser is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in India, centering around characters such as Lord Victor Gilfain and Prince Ananda, set against a backdrop filled with intrigue and local mythology surrounding three sacred sapphires. As the narrative begins, readers are introduced to a world rich with cultural references, personal dynamics, and hints of mystery that propel the plot. At the start of the novel, we find Lord Victor and Captain Swinton enjoying a moment on the balcony of Prince Ananda’s palace, overlooking the city of Darpore. The conversation flows between the characters, revealing glimpses into their backgrounds and hinting at deeper themes involving caste, imperialism, and the mystical allure of Indian culture. As they proceed to dinner, a sapphire linked to an African elephant’s bell becomes a focal point, raising questions about its significance and prompting discussions about the legends associated with the lost treasures of the buried city. The opening sets a tone of adventure and enigma, promising an engaging blend of action and cultural commentary as the story develops.
The Sa'-Zada Tales
"The Sa'-Zada Tales" by William Alexander Fraser is a collection of animal stories set in a fictionalized zoo environment. Written in the early 20th century, the tales revolve around the characters of various animals who share their stories of life in the wild, their encounters with humans, and the dynamics of their existence within the confines of a zoo. The primary character is Sa'-Zada, the Keeper, who facilitates these gatherings among the animals, fostering communication and community amongst them. At the start of this collection, Sa'-Zada unlocks the cages of the animals during a hot night, gathering them for an evening of storytelling. The animals, including Hathi the Elephant, Pardus the Black Panther, and Rufous the Yellow Leopard, are introduced, each exhibiting distinct personalities and experiences. They debate the importance and nature of their stories, particularly focusing on their hunting experiences, encounters with humans, and the struggles they face as wildlife. This opening segment establishes a whimsical yet poignant atmosphere that explores themes of friendship, survival, and the complex relationship between humans and nature.
The Outcasts
"The Outcasts" by W. A. Fraser is a novel written in the early 20th century. This narrative follows the journey of A'tim, a half-wolf, half-huskie dog, who finds himself an outcast in the wilderness of North America, wandering near the Blood Indians' territory. The story explores themes of isolation, survival, and the complex relationship between humans and animals, as A'tim interacts with both fellow outcasts and hunters in his quest for sustenance and a sense of belonging. At the start of the book, we meet A'tim, who is deeply aware of his hungry existence and the precariousness of life as a mixed breed shunned by both wolves and dogs. The opening scenes depict his thoughts while he lurks near the camps of the Blood Indians, pondering the upcoming buffalo hunt. A'tim's interactions with Shag, an old buffalo bull who shares his status as an outcast, reveal their mutual understanding and camaraderie, despite their very different natures. As they discuss the impending buffalo run set to occur, A'tim’s selfish desires emerge, hinting at darker intentions fueled by desperation and need. Their conversation sets the stage for future encounters and conflicts, emphasizing the theme of survival in a world rife with danger and deception.
Caste
"Caste" by William Alexander Fraser is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the political and social tensions in India during the time of colonial rule, particularly focusing on the intrigues between local rulers and their relationships with the British. Among the key figures are Nana Sahib—adopted son of the Peshwa and a Brahmin who secretly harbors anti-British sentiments—and Captain Barlow, who is entangled in both personal and political conflicts, exploring themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the complexities of caste. The opening portion of the novel establishes a tense political atmosphere, where the Mahratta rulers Sindhia, Holkar, and Bhonsla plot against the British and the Resident Hodson at Poona remains suspicious of Nana Sahib, whose outward charm hides a deep animosity towards colonial powers. Barlow is introduced as a pivotal character, tasked with navigating these treacherous waters while also romantically involved with Hodson's daughter, Elizabeth. Meanwhile, plots are set into motion involving the ambitious Dandhu Panth, and the tension escalates as simmering cultural divides, personal vendettas, and the looming threat of violent rebellion shape the narrative. As these factions jockey for power and control, the intermingling of personal relationships and political machinations begins to unravel, hinting at the chaos to come.