Author
Francis Lynde
1856-1930
Francis Lynde (1856-1930) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Francis Lynde
The Helpers
"The Helpers" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book depicts the story of Henry Jeffard, a man who relocates to Denver with aspirations of success but soon finds himself grappling with the harsh realities of life and struggle. The narrative weaves together themes of ambition, despair, and the pursuit of redemption as Jeffard encounters various characters who reflect different societal values and struggles. At the start of the novel, Jeffard attends an opera in Denver, where he inadvertently creates an impression on two young women, Connie and Myra, who engage in playful banter regarding his manners. Despite feeling out of place and disheartened about his circumstances in Denver, Jeffard's perspective begins to shift thanks to an unexpected and meaningful conversation with Connie. The opening chapters reveal Jeffard's internal conflict, as he balances his ambitions with the dawning realization of his failures, setting the stage for further exploration of human compassion, societal judgment, and the search for personal redemption. The interactions between characters introduce the themes of kindness and assistance in the face of adversity, framing Jeffard's journey in a broader context of human experience.
The Price
"The Price" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on Kenneth Griswold, a passionate yet struggling writer who finds himself navigating the harsh realities of life in New Orleans. As he grapples with themes of social justice and inequality, Griswold's life takes a drastic turn when desperation drives him to commit an audacious bank robbery. The opening of the novel introduces Griswold during a farewell supper with a friend as he reflects on his failures and frustrations. We see his deep dissatisfaction with the status quo and the economic hardships that have pushed him to the brink. He engages in a fervent discussion about the plight of the poor and expresses his radical beliefs, which foreshadows his later decision to rob a bank. This initial setup not only establishes Griswold's inner turmoil and ideals but also hints at the drastic actions he will take in response to his circumstances, laying the groundwork for the moral and ethical challenges that will arise throughout the story.
The Real Man
"The Real Man" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story revolves around J. Montague Smith, a young bank cashier who finds himself caught in a web of personal and professional crises in the small city of Lawrenceville. The plot explores themes of ambition, morality, and identity as Montague navigates the complexities of social expectations, financial pitfalls, and his connections to powerful figures in town. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Montague and his friend, Debritt, who engage in a conversation about the life of the well-regarded young man in their community, emphasizing the apparent prosperity and predictability of his existence. However, the calm facade soon shatters when Montague is confronted with dire consequences stemming from a loan he approved, which brings to light issues of trust and morality in business. A series of dramatic events culminate in a violent confrontation with the bank's president, prompting Montague to flee his life of comfort and societal expectations, embarking on a tumultuous journey that will ultimately lead him to confront who he truly is and what kind of man he will become.
A Fool for Love
"A Fool for Love" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows John Winton, a railroad engineer, and his colleague Morton P. Adams as they embark on a hazardous journey through the mountains while navigating complex corporate conflicts interwoven with personal romantic intrigue. At its core, the narrative explores themes of ambition, love, and the struggle between competing interests in the infrastructure development of the American West. The opening of the book introduces readers to a wintery scene on a train station where the protagonist, John Winton, and his companion, Adams, await their delayed train to Denver. Their conversation reveals Winton’s frustration about being forced into fieldwork he would rather avoid, especially as his thoughts drift towards Virginia Carteret, a captivating woman he has just seen aboard a private car. The atmosphere changes when Winton learns they are on a collision course with corporate rivalries that threaten to derail their plans—not just for the railroad, but also for his budding interest in Virginia. As the plot unfolds, tension builds around Winton's professional challenges, romance, and the socioeconomic landscapes of the time. The beginning sets a vivid stage for both the romantic and adventurous elements of the tale that are yet to come.
After the Manner of Men
"After the Manner of Men" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the journey of Vance Tregarvon, a Philadelphia native, who confronts a range of challenges as he attempts to work on the Ocoee coal mine in Tennessee. The story explores themes of class, civilization versus barbarism, and personal ambition, as well as Tregarvon's interactions with various characters, including a spirited young woman named Richardia and his wealthy friend Poictiers Carfax. At the start of the novel, Tregarvon finds himself under fire in the Tennessee mountains, experiencing a shocking initiation into the perilous nature of his new environment. Mistakenly believing he is under attack, he confronts the humorous reality of having stumbled upon a group of women practicing their shooting skills for sport. This encounter leads to the introduction of key characters, including the charismatic Richardia, as Tregarvon navigates the complexities of his new venture and the feuds that accompany it. The opening sets the stage for both personal and professional conflicts as Tregarvon grapples with the realities of the Ocoee mine, which is shrouded in a mysterious past and local hostility.
The Master of Appleby A Novel Tale Concerning Itself in Part with the Great Struggle in the Two Carolinas; but Chiefly with the Adventures Therein of Two Gentlemen Who Loved One and the Same Lady
"The Master of Appleby" by Francis Lynde is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. This tale revolves around Captain John Ireton, who returns to Carolina after years in military service only to find his family's estate usurped and caught in the chaos of the American Revolutionary War. The narrative unfolds a complex web of love, rivalry, and conflict, particularly framed around Ireton's duel with Sir Francis Falconnet, a pressing figure in both his past and present struggles. At the start of the novel, the protagonist, John Ireton, receives a challenge to a duel from Captain Falconnet, which is delivered by Richard Jennifer, a childhood friend. The chapter intricately describes Ireton's feelings of anger and determination as he prepares for the impending fight, while also providing a backstory of personal loss and the social tension of the time. Ireton's return to Carolina ignites old memories and rivalries, particularly involving a lady named Margery Stair, whose connection with Falconnet adds further complication to the unfolding drama. The opening establishes a rich historical backdrop intertwined with personal stakes, setting the stage for themes of honor, love, and the carnage of war.
The Quickening
"The Quickening" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the backdrop of Paradise Valley, Tennessee, the story unfolds around a revival led by the Reverend Silas Crafts and introduces its central character, twelve-year-old Thomas Jefferson Gordon. The book delves into themes of personal transformation, faith, and the challenges of adolescence amidst the social dynamics of the South. At the start of the narrative, the small wooden church of Little Zoar is filled with congregants attending a revival meeting. As the Reverend Crafts preaches passionately, Thomas Jefferson grapples with his own sense of faith and the pressures of his upbringing. He witnesses the stirring of emotions in both himself and others, particularly in his friend Scrap Pendry, who recently sought redemption. The opening section sets the stage for Thomas's internal struggle between the ideals of righteousness instilled by his mother and the temptations of youthful recklessness, foreshadowing the significant themes of conflict and growth that will follow in his journey.
Pirates' Hope
"Pirates' Hope" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Bonteck Van Dyck, a wealthy and somewhat disillusioned man, who invites his old college friend, Dick Preble, to join him on a cruise aboard his yacht, the "Andromeda". As they set sail, the novel explores themes of wealth, human nature, and the search for genuine relationships amidst a backdrop of luxurious seaside adventures. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Van Dyck, who is struggling with a sense of moral confusion and a desire to understand the people around him better, questioning their true natures beyond their polished exteriors. His invitation to Preble hints at an underlying mission to explore human authenticity among a selected group of socialites accompanying them on the cruise. As the "Andromeda" sets sail, conversations reveal complex relationships and a web of romantic and financial intrigues, particularly with discussions surrounding Van Dyck's musings about the guests and the legendary island of Pirates' Hope from which the book draws its title.
A private chivalry : $b a novel
"A Private Chivalry" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around George Brant, a man wrestling with his dark past and a complicated love life centered on a woman whose choices have led them both into a world of degradation. The novel explores themes of redemption, honor, and the struggles between morality and personal desire. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Brant and his friend Ned Hobart as they sit outside an assayer's cabin overlooking the chaotic mining camp of Silverette. Brant grapples with his responsibilities toward a woman from his past while recognizing his moral decline in the gambling underbelly of camp life. Their conversation reveals Brant's inner turmoil regarding a lost love and the consequences of his choices, setting the stage for a narrative rich with tension and reflection on themes of chivalry and redemption.
The Wreckers
"The Wreckers" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative is centered on Graham Norcross, a railroad construction executive who finds himself embroiled in the chaos of managing a struggling railroad line, the Pioneer Short Line. As he deals with various challenges, including a kidnapping incident and corruption, he also navigates personal interactions with intriguing characters like Mrs. Sheila Macrae and her cousin Maisie Ann. The opening of the story introduces us to Jimmie Dodds, Norcross's confidential clerk, as they embark on a train journey that quickly leads to unforeseen complications. Following delays caused by a freight-train wreck, they encounter Mrs. Sheila and Maisie Ann on the train. When both women venture off the train to retrieve a forgotten muff, a series of misadventures unfolds, leading to the discovery of a plot to kidnap Mr. Chadwick, a wealthy businessman traveling in a private car on the same train. As the plot progresses, we see wealthy and influential characters maneuvering against each other, with current treachery intertwining with Norcross's new responsibilities as the recently appointed general manager of the railroad.
The Grafters
"The Grafters" by Francis Lynde is a novel likely written during the late 19th century, exploring themes of ambition, economic hardship, and the complexities of human nature in a growing Western city. The story begins in Gaston, a once-promising town that experienced a boom thanks to its railroads but soon faces an economic collapse. Central to the narrative is David Kent, an attorney who embarks on a turbulent journey as he navigates financial ruin, social upheaval, and the intricacies of political power during this tumultuous period. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the historical backdrop of Gaston, illustrating its rapid rise and subsequent fall. The opening section lays out the origins of the town, the influential figures that shaped its destiny, and the coming financial crash that serves as a catalyst for the unfolding story. David Kent, arriving from New Hampshire to seek fortune, finds himself caught up in the ensuing chaos. Through Kent's perspective, we witness the panic that ensues as the town's residents confront their new reality, as well as his own strategic maneuvers to retain his professional and personal integrity amid the encroaching desperation. This opening not only sets the stage for the interwoven lives of its characters but also hints at deeper explorations of ethics and governance in the West.
Dick and Larry: Freshmen
"Dick and Larry: Freshmen" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on the lives of two young men, Dick Maxwell and Larry Donovan, who leave their western home to begin their college experience at Sheddon. Their journey unfolds as they navigate the uncertainties of freshman life, challenges of fitting in, and the pressures associated with academia and social standing. The opening of the book introduces the two main characters as they embark on their journey to college. Dick is portrayed as confident and sociable, while Larry carries a sense of trepidation about leaving home and joining the college community. Their contrasting personalities highlight the themes of friendship and the struggle for acceptance, particularly as they are given the nickname "Timanyoni Twins" by their peers. The opening sets the stage for their adventures, detailing their arrival, initial encounters with college traditions, and hints of future conflicts stemming from social class differences and athletic expectations.
The Taming of Red Butte Western
"The Taming of Red Butte Western" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the struggles of Howard Lidgerwood, the newly appointed superintendent of the Red Butte Western, tasked with bringing order and discipline to a chaotic railroad in a harsh desert landscape populated by outlaws and disreputable workers. The narrative explores themes of personal courage, the challenges of leadership, and the complex dynamics of frontier life. The opening of the book introduces Lidgerwood as a man grappling with self-doubt and fear of confrontation. He meets with Stuart Ford, the vice-president of the Pacific Southwestern System, who tries to convince him to take on the formidable challenge of civilizing the unruly railroad. Despite his qualifications, Lidgerwood expresses his anxieties about the violent environment and his perceived cowardice, revealing his internal conflict. As the story progresses, he reluctantly accepts the position, setting the stage for his encounters with the tough realities of the Red Butte Western and its workforce, including confrontations with men who may threaten his authority.
The tenderfoots
"The Tenderfoots" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Philip Trask, a New Englander seeking work and adventure in the American West during the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around his encounters with characters from vastly different backgrounds and the adventures that arise as he navigates life as a newcomer in the rough environment of Colorado. The opening of the novel introduces Philip Trask as he embarks on his journey westward. Traveling in a crowded train car, he observes the stark landscape of eastern Colorado and the boisterous company of treasure seekers around him. We learn of Philip's past, his family's struggles, and his father's mysterious disappearance, which motivates his quest. A particularly striking moment occurs when he intervenes to protect a girl named Jean from the advances of a drunken man, marking the beginning of a connection that hints at more to come. As the story unfolds, Philip's character evolves amid the challenges of the West, setting a foundation for his growth and adventures ahead.
Branded
"Branded" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Herbert Weyburn, a young man whose life takes a dramatic turn when he is falsely accused of embezzling money from a bank due to the deceitful actions of a trusted mentor and a beautiful but manipulative woman named Agatha Geddis. Faced with a corrupt legal system and the scorn of his former community, Weyburn must navigate the challenges of his conviction and find a way to clear his name and regain his place in society. The opening of "Branded" introduces the protagonist, Herbert Weyburn, as he reflects on his troubling promise to Agatha Geddis and the consequences of her father's wrongdoings at the Farmers' Bank. As he faces arrest for a crime he didn't commit, he recalls his past connections with the Geddis family and the beautiful but dangerous Agatha. Despite his innocence, Herbert realizes that the circumstances surrounding his case have already set him on a downward spiral. The chapter sets the stage for a gripping exploration of betrayal, the struggle for redemption, and the repercussions of choices made under pressure.
Mr. Arnold: A romance of the Revolution
"Mr. Arnold: A Romance of the Revolution" by Francis Lynde is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the American Revolutionary War, the story follows Richard Page, a young captain in the Continental Army who is grappling with the challenges of loyalty, honor, and personal relationships amid the chaos of war. The narrative begins with Richard's tumultuous encounter with Captain Seytoun and hints at his conflict with Benedict Arnold, the infamous traitor, setting the stage for themes of betrayal and the complexities of allegiance. The opening of the novel introduces us to Richard Page on his 22nd birthday as he shares a dismal toast with his friend Jack Pettus in a tavern. They discuss the dire state of their troop and the recent desertions, highlighting the impact of Arnold’s treachery on the morale of the patriot forces. Tension escalates when Seytoun provokes Page, who initially feels bound by honor not to fight him. However, after a confrontation where Page strikes Seytoun, he is thrust into a duel that he cannot escape. This pivotal moment leads to Richard's decision to abandon his camp and journey to New York, setting him on a collision course with Arnold and the choices that will define his fate and loyalties.
Scientific Sprague
"Scientific Sprague" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Calvin Sprague, a government chemist who becomes embroiled in a series of mysterious incidents surrounding the Nevada Short Line railroad, particularly regarding a deceptive wire that leads to chaos and panic among railroad employees. As the plot unfolds, the narrative delves into themes of deception, the pressures of high finance, and the intersections between science and detective work. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a tense situation in the despatcher's office of the Nevada Short Line railroad, where the employees deal with a potentially disastrous false report of a train wreck involving the Apache Limited. The characters Connolly and Bolton engage in banter about their personal lives while attending to their crucial roles in the operations. Meanwhile, Maxwell, the railroad's superintendent, learns about the dire situation and seeks to save the day, eventually calling on Calvin Sprague, a friend and expert, for help. The opening effectively sets the stage for the ensuing drama, laying the groundwork for what appears to be a thrilling mystery involving sabotage and the uncovering of a larger conspiracy at play within the railroad's operations.
The City of Numbered Days
"The City of Numbered Days" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work explores the life and experiences of Brouillard, a chief of construction in the Reclamation Service, as he embarks on a major project in the arid Buckskin Desert. The narrative hints at themes of personal transformation, labor, and the mix of ambition and societal complexities, primarily through Brouillard and the interactions he has with other characters, including J. Wesley Cortwright, a wealthy visitor, and the indigenous Navajo people. At the start of the story, Brouillard is introduced as a thoughtful and introspective character, reflecting on the significance of the number seven in his life, particularly on his 28th birthday. This personal milestone sparks conversations about change, memory, and the unpredictability of life. As the narrative unfolds, Brouillard engages with a group of engineers while recounting past experiences, and he becomes increasingly intertwined with the charming Cortwright family, including the beautiful Genevieve. The atmosphere shifts with the introduction of a mysterious light in the canyon, suggesting the approach of unforeseen challenges that may disrupt the delicate dynamics of Brouillard’s personal and professional life in this burgeoning frontier society.
David Vallory
"David Vallory" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. It revolves around the character David Vallory, a young engineer returning to his hometown of Middleboro after working on a government harbor project. The story explores David’s complex relationships with his family, particularly with his father, who faces financial ruin, and his interactions with his romantic interests, which add layers of personal and moral dilemmas to the plot. The beginning of the book introduces David's return home after a long absence, where he begins to notice a sense of disappointment about his hometown, now tinged with melancholy. Upon arriving, he discovers his father is in trouble due to the bank's precarious financial situation, leading to a series of family and ethical quandaries. David’s strong idealism clashes with the harsh realities of adult life, as he grapples with the implications of his father’s actions and the weight of their family reputation. As the narrative unfolds, themes of responsibility, the challenge of ideals versus pragmatism, and the complexities of love begin to emerge, setting the stage for David’s journey toward maturity and self-discovery.
Empire Builders
"Empire Builders" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Stuart Ford, a young superintendent of the problematic Plug Mountain branch of the Pacific Southwestern Railway, as he grapples with the challenges of leading his men through harsh winter conditions while devising a plan to save the financially troubled railway. Central to the narrative is Ford's determination and leadership as he confronts various obstacles in his attempts to secure the future of the railway system. The opening of the book introduces us to Ford and his team battling snow drifts on Plug Mountain as they struggle to restore service to a mining camp isolated by winter conditions. We witness Ford's leadership style, which earns him the respect and loyalty of his workers, as well as his frustrations with the insufficient resources provided by the company. Stuck between a treacherous weather battle and a distressed railway system, the narrative sets the stage for Ford's ambitious plans to not only survive the present crisis but to find a way to turn the struggling branch into a viable asset for the company, foreshadowing the strategic and financial struggles that will come as he pursues this goal.
A Romance in Transit
"A Romance in Transit" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the interactions and relationships between various passengers aboard a train, focusing particularly on the character of Frederick Brockway, a young passenger agent, and his complicated feelings towards Gertrude Vennor, the daughter of a wealthy railroad president. The book explores themes of social class, romance, and the conflict between personal ambition and societal expectations. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to a diverse group of train passengers, each with their own backgrounds and stories. Particularly significant is the exchange between Brockway and Mrs. Burton, who engages in playful speculation about Brockway's feelings towards Miss Vennor after recognizing that their paths have crossed before. As they navigate their relationships amid the train's journey, Brockway’s internal struggle with his socioeconomic status and his growing affection for Gertrude complicate his interactions. The opening sets a tone of romantic intrigue intertwined with the dynamics of social class, hinting at deeper developments as the story unfolds.
The Honorable Senator Sage-Brush
"The Honorable Senator Sage-Brush" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Evan Blount, the son of a prominent senator, who finds himself at a crossroads in his life following a romantic rejection by a woman named Patricia. As he grapples with his feelings of disappointment and familial connections in the West, he must navigate a complex political landscape that involves powerful railroad interests and his father's influence. At the start of the novel, Blount is introduced as a disconsolate young man attending a social event at a country club, recently spurned by his love interest. He encounters his old friend Gantry, who provides insights into the political turmoil connected to his father's career, suggesting a call for Blount to return to their native West. A telegram from his father urging him to come home further complicates his indecision, igniting both his ambitions and the historical weight of his family's legacy as he prepares to confront the realities of his father's position and the socio-political challenges in their home state. Through dynamic dialogues between Blount and Gantry, the reader is deftly introduced to the legislative conflicts that will shape the narrative moving forward.
Stranded in Arcady
"Stranded in Arcady" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around two main characters, Donald Prime and Lucetta Millington, who find themselves mysteriously stranded in a remote woodland area after awakening from unconsciousness. As they try to unravel the mystery of their displacement, they navigate their surroundings, engaging in both practical survival tasks and conversations that reveal their personalities and backgrounds. At the start of the narrative, Donald Prime awakens on a sandy beach, confused and disoriented, only to realize he is not alone; a young woman, Lucetta, is nearby, equally bewildered. They quickly deduce that both were in Quebec the previous night and are puzzled by how they ended up in the wilderness. As they begin to explore their environment, find provisions, and seek explanations, hints of danger and past violence emerge, suggesting a deeper conspiracy tied to their abduction. The opening sets up a blend of adventure and mystery as the characters grapple with the challenges of survival while trying to forge a connection amid the chaos.
The King of Arcadia
"The King of Arcadia" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Breckenridge Ballard, a young engineer who takes on the daunting task of overseeing the construction of a dam in the enigmatic Arcadia Park, all while contending with dangers both natural and human. The narrative hints at underlying conflicts, including a mysterious telegram warning Ballard to steer clear of the project, and a feud with the land's current owner, Colonel Adam Craigmiles, known as the "King of Arcadia". The opening portion of the book sets up Ballard’s journey as he prepares to embark on this new venture, showcasing his interactions with fellow professionals, and highlighting warnings about the project's history of fatalities. Through engaged dialogues, readers learn about the intertwined lives of Ballard and Elsa Craigmiles, the colonel's daughter, which may complicate the rivalry between Ballard and her father. As Ballard navigates through his preparations and his burgeoning feelings for Elsa, the groundwork for tension surrounding the impending construction project is expertly laid, signaling that danger and romantic entanglements will play significant roles in the unfolding narrative.