Author
Basil King
1859-1928
Basil King (1859-1928) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Basil King
The Thread of Flame
"The Thread of Flame" by Basil King is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around an unnamed protagonist who wakes up disoriented on a ship, struggling with memory loss and searching for his identity as he travels back to New York. As he interacts with other passengers, including a blind man named Drinkwater and a young woman named Lydia Blair, the protagonist grapples with feelings of alienation and the fragments of a life he cannot yet recall. The opening of the book introduces the protagonist awakening in a cramped cabin aboard a ship, confused about his past and the circumstances that led him there. He encounters Drinkwater, who is blind, and learns from him that he has been asleep for over twenty-four hours since boarding. As memories elude him, he tries to piece together his identity while navigating the ship and interacting with Drinkwater, who starts to consider him as a friend. The tension of absent memories mixed with the dynamics of forming new connections lays the groundwork for a story that explores themes of identity, belonging, and the search for one's place in the world amidst the chaos of modern life.
The Conquest of Fear
"The Conquest of Fear" by Basil King is a philosophical work written during the early 20th century. The text explores the pervasive nature of fear in human life and offers a spiritual perspective on overcoming it, positing that a deep understanding of God and one's self-expression in the world is essential for conquering fear. It delves into personal experiences and reflections, aiming to provide a philosophy of life that contrasts the contemporary materialistic mindset. The opening of the book introduces the author’s struggle with fear throughout his life, presenting it not as an isolated experience but as a common challenge faced by almost everyone. In the initial chapters, King reflects on the various fears that haunt individuals—from childhood apprehensions to adult anxieties regarding job security, illness, and loss. He warns against relying solely on materialistic solutions for fear, emphasizing the need for a spiritual approach. King begins to outline his journey towards personal growth, revealing how an understanding of the life-principle and a relationship with God can transform fear into a catalyst for strength and progress in life.
The Happy Isles
"The Happy Isles" by Basil King is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with a focus on a young boy who, at just eight months old, has experienced a life filled with comfort, joy, and love from his caregivers. As the narrative unfolds, it explores the complexities of childhood and the stark contrast between joy and suffering as the boy becomes embroiled in a harrowing life filled with care and neglect. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to a vibrant nursery world through the eyes of an eight-month-old baby, who perceives his surroundings with wonder and curiosity, fully unaware of the challenges that life will soon bring. Shifting perspective, the narrative also delves into the lives of his caregivers, including Miss Nash, a devoted nursemaid who struggles with her emotions and duties. Soon, the idyllic life of the boy is abruptly changed by a series of incidents that lead to profound transformations in his life. The opening establishes a strong emotional foundation that hints at the trials and tribulations that will shape the boy’s journey, making it a compelling start for readers interested in stories about resilience and the complexities of human relationships.
The Dust Flower
"The Dust Flower" by Basil King is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the tumultuous relationship between Rashleigh Allerton, a man struggling with his identity and vices, and his fiancée, Barbara Walbrook, as they confront their demons and family expectations. The narrative is set against the backdrop of contrasting social classes, exploring themes of love, class conflict, and self-discovery. At the start of the novel, we witness a heated confrontation between Rashleigh and Barbara, filled with emotional turmoil and misunderstandings. Rashleigh feels pressured to conform to Barbara's demands and give up his friendships, which stirs his sense of defiance. Meanwhile, Barbara struggles with her own insecurities and expectations imposed upon her by her aunt. Their arguments escalate, revealing deep-seated fears about their compatibility and future happiness. As the tension mounts, Rashleigh makes a rash decision to marry a woman, Letty, whom he has just met, in an attempt to escape his troubled relationship with Barbara. This choice sets the stage for a complex exploration of their intertwined fates and the consequences of their actions.
The Street Called Straight
"The Street Called Straight" by Basil King is a novel written during the early 20th century. It explores themes of social class, human relationships, and personal crises through the interactions of its characters, primarily focusing on Peter Davenant, who reenters a familiar social circle after years of absence and faces unresolved feelings from his past. The opening of the novel introduces Peter Davenant as he attends a dinner hosted by Olivia Guion, a woman he once proposed to. Although Olivia treats him as a stranger, Davenant's internal reflections reveal a mix of past humiliation and ongoing admiration as he navigates his feelings about her imminent marriage to Colonel Rupert Ashley. The dinner setting highlights complex relationships among the guests, shedding light on Peter's struggles with his identity and societal expectations, teasing at deeper tensions and foreshadowing the conflicts to come as Guion's ambiguous situation unfolds against the backdrop of changing social dynamics.
The High Heart
"The High Heart" by Basil King is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Alexandra Adare, a young Canadian woman navigating social dynamics and familial expectations in American high society. As she works as a nursery governess, her life becomes intertwined with the affluent Brokenshire family, particularly involving her complex feelings towards Hugh Brokenshire, who aspires to marry her despite his father's disapproval. The opening of the novel introduces us to Alexandra's life and circumstances as she becomes acquainted with the Rossiters, a family that showcases the intricate dynamics of class and expectation. She reflects on her past experiences and interactions with Mrs. Rossiter while forming her perceptions about her new role. The stage is set for the conflict as Alexandra encounters various family members and other social figures, notably the imposing J. Howard Brokenshire, Hugh's father, who represents the societal pressures that dictate their paths. Through Alexandra’s perspective, we gain insight into her thoughts on love, duty, and the struggle between personal desires and external expectations, hinting at a central conflict that will unfold as the narrative progresses.
The Wild Olive: A Novel
"The Wild Olive: A Novel" by Basil King is a fiction work written in the early 20th century. The story begins with Norrie Ford, a young man on the run after escaping from custody, reflecting on his precarious situation in the wilderness of the Adirondacks. As he navigates through the forest, he grapples with a sense of loss and regret about his past and the life he is leaving behind. At the start of the novel, Norrie Ford finds himself in a desperate flight from the law, having been unjustly sentenced by Judge Wayne for a crime he did not commit. As he runs through the wild terrain, he contemplates his options and the stark reality of his situation. After a taxing escape, he stumbles upon a secluded clearing and a house that represents a life of civility he longs for. When he unexpectedly encounters the judge and his wife, Norrie’s desperate need for survival becomes intertwined with underlying themes of justice, morality, and identity. He is drawn into a deeper narrative involving the judge's wife, who ultimately aids him in hiding from his pursuers, establishing a dramatic tension centered around escape, societal constraints, and personal ethics. The opening chapters set the stage for a rich exploration of character and circumstance, laying the groundwork for Norrie's struggle against both external and internal foes.
The Side Of The Angels: A Novel
"The Side of the Angels: A Novel" by Basil King is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the intertwined lives of families in a small village, particularly focusing on Thorley Masterman, a young doctor struggling to establish himself in practice, and Rosie Fay, a woman from a family that has fallen into hardship. Through their experiences, the novel explores themes of social class, ambition, and the burdens of familial obligations. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a complex social landscape marked by generational differences and economic challenges. Thorley Masterman returns to his village with hopes of serving his community, but he quickly becomes aware of the socio-economic disparities that impact his patients, especially the Fay family. In particular, Mrs. Fay is revealed to be a proud woman plagued by despair, while her daughter Rosie appears caught between her love for Claude Masterman, Thorley's half-brother, and the harsh realities of her family's situation. As Thor navigates his relationships with the Fays and his own family, the opening chapters hint at underlying tensions that will likely shape their destinies as they seek to find hope and purpose amid adversity.
The City of Comrades
"The City of Comrades" by Basil King is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the struggles of individuals living on the fringes of society, focusing on complex themes of human connection and redemption. At its center is a discreet but deeply conflicted protagonist, who is drawn into a life of crime while battling his own demons and the expectations of society. The opening of the narrative introduces us to a grim and bustling New York City in June 1913, setting the stage for themes of desperation and the quest for belonging. We meet the protagonist, a nameless man, in the company of Lovey, a disheveled figure suggesting a petty crime involving two wealthy old ladies. As the protagonist wrestles with moral dilemmas, he reflects on his past, revealing a painful history and aspirations cut short by failures and societal rejection. The tone is tense as he contemplates his next move in a city filled with opportunity yet fraught with danger, while Lovey's eagerness contrasts with the protagonist's apprehension. The stage is set for a gripping exploration of the human condition and the profound bonds that form in moments of crisis.
The Inner Shrine
"The Inner Shrine" by Basil King is a novel written during the early 20th century, around the time of its publication in 1909. The book delves into the complexities of human relationships, focusing primarily on Mrs. Eveleth, a mother harboring deep anxieties about the welfare of her son, George, and his marriage to Diane. The narrative revolves around themes of love, betrayal, and the societal pressures faced by individuals within the context of their family roles and social expectations. The opening of the novel introduces Mrs. Eveleth, who is anxiously awaiting the return of her son George and his wife Diane after a night out in Paris. Her restlessness is fueled by a vague sense of impending disaster, despite the outward appearance of normalcy in their lives. As the story unfolds, Mrs. Eveleth's fears are materialized when she learns that George has been involved in a duel, leading to tragic consequences. The stage is set for exploring the aftermath of this event, highlighting the contrasting grief between Mrs. Eveleth and Diane as they navigate the complexities of their lives in the wake of loss, setting in motion an intricate tale of redemption and societal critique.
The Empty Sack
"The Empty Sack" by Basil King is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Josiah Follett, a middle-aged bank clerk facing the impending threat of dismissal due to age and perceived incompetence amid a harsh business environment. The story explores themes of economic struggle, familial responsibility, and the conflicts arising from class differences, particularly through the intersects of the Follett and Collingham families. The opening of the novel introduces Josiah Follett, who is about to meet his employer, Mr. Collingham, regarding a potential raise that he desperately needs. As he prepares for this daunting encounter, the narrative shifts slightly to Miss Ruddick, the efficient secretary, who coldly facilitates the meeting, aware of the tough realities of business. Josiah's journey is marred by his inner turmoil over providing for his family while grappling with the threat of unemployability. The chapter sets the tone for a story deeply rooted in the struggles of working-class individuals against the indifference of corporate America, foreshadowing the challenges Josiah and his family will face as the story unfolds.
Going West
"Going West" by Basil King is a novel written in the early 20th century, specifically during the time following World War I. The book explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the profound impact of war on personal lives, reflecting the experiences of American soldiers during that tumultuous period. The story follows Lester, a civilian and aspiring broker who is suddenly called to serve in World War I. As he navigates the brutal realities of combat, he reflects on his life, including his engagement to Molly Dove, who waits for him back home. Deeply influenced by his family’s military history, Lester finds himself grappling with his own identity amidst the chaos of war. After enduring harrowing experiences on the battlefield, he confronts the fate of his life and the consequences of violence, ultimately exploring the nature of existence and the ties that bind people across life and death. The narrative addresses the emotional weight carried by those left behind, particularly Molly, who, despite sorrow, seeks a connection to Lester after his death, leading to a powerful resolution about love, loss, and hope beyond mortality.
The Letter of the Contract
"The Letter of the Contract" by Basil King is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the complexities of love and commitment as experienced by its main character, Edith, who grapples with her marriage to Chip and the feelings of betrayal that arise when his past relationships intrude upon their seemingly stable life. At the start of the narrative, Edith reflects on a pivotal moment that could have altered her life trajectory. Instead of checking on her children, she writes a note and gazes out the window, noticing a forlorn girl in gray waiting outside. This small act leads her to observe her husband as he tips toes to watch the girl, igniting a series of questions and doubts about his fidelity. As the morning unfolds, an unsettling scenario becomes apparent when Chip departs in a motor vehicle with the girl, deepening Edith's internal conflict of trust and insecurity. The opening sets a tense atmosphere of impending emotional turmoil that foreshadows the intricate layers of betrayal, loyalty, and the expectations of marital bonds.