Author
Alice MacGowan
1858-1947
Alice MacGowan (1858-1947) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Alice MacGowan
The Million-Dollar Suitcase
"The Million-Dollar Suitcase" by Alice MacGowan and Perry Newberry is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a serious robbery at the Van Ness Avenue Savings Bank, where a significant sum of nearly a million dollars has vanished following the suspicious disappearance of one of the bank's tellers, Edward Clayte. The narrative primarily follows the characters of detective Jerry Boyne, who is tasked with solving the case, and Worth Gilbert, the son of the bank's benefactor, who takes an active interest in recovering the missing money. At the start of the story, a board meeting at the bank descends into chaos as the directors grapple with the alarming news of Clayte's vanishing act along with the suitcase containing the bank's funds. The tension is palpable as each character reacts differently to the crisis, revealing their personalities and motives. Worth Gilbert’s arrival introduces a fresh perspective, as he exhibits confidence and a keen interest in taking matters into his own hands. The chapter ends with a decision to hire Boyne as the detective to track down Clayte, hinting at a deeper connection between the characters and possibly more complex motives behind the theft. Worth's determination to reclaim the money sets the stage for a thrilling investigation, intertwining personal stakes with the unfolding mystery.
Judith of the Cumberlands
"Judith of the Cumberlands" by Alice MacGowan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the southern Appalachian region, focusing on Judith Barrier, a young mountain woman navigating her life and relationships within a community marked by its connection to nature and its struggles with the law and social change. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Judith as she engages with the local milliner while contemplating her beauty and femininity. This moment sets the stage for her character's development as she observes a political gathering in the village square led by Creed Bonbright, a passionate young man advocating for the mountain people. The narrative swiftly shifts to a tense situation as two of Judith's cousins are arrested, prompting her to reflect on the complexities of mountain life and her budding connection with Creed. This opening establishes the themes of identity, community, and the contrasts between traditional mountain life and encroaching modernity.
The Wiving of Lance Cleaverage
"The Wiving of Lance Cleaverage" by Alice MacGowan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the highlands of Tennessee and follows the life of Lance Cleaverage, a young man navigating courtship and social dynamics in a rural community. Central to the plot are his interactions with Callista Gentry, a young woman admired by many, and the various tensions that arise from their relationship amidst the expectations of their society. The opening of the book introduces the setting on a vibrant Sunday in the Tennessee highlands, highlighting the differences in the characters' social standings and aspirations. Lance is portrayed as a free-spirited and somewhat rebellious figure, challenging societal norms with his banjo, while Callista is depicted as a beautiful and carefully groomed girl, the subject of much male affection and competition. The chapter illustrates Lance and Callista’s playful banter, hinting at deeper feelings intertwined with the community's expectations. As characters like the Widow Griever and other townsfolk offer commentary on their youthful dynamics, the stage is set for the ensuing drama of love, rivalry, and societal pressures that will unfold throughout the novel.
A Girl of the Plains Country
"A Girl of the Plains Country" by Alice MacGowan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The storyline introduces the Van Brunt family, notably little Hilda, as they relocate from New York to the rugged plains of Texas after the death of Hilda's mother. The book explores their initial experiences in a harsh and unfamiliar land, addressing themes of loss, resilience, and the challenges of adapting to a new life. At the start of the novel, we follow young Hilda Van Brunt as she arrives in the plains country with her father, Charles, and aunt, Valeria. They are greeted by Hank Pearsall, the ranch manager of Three Sorrows Ranch, who has come to assist them in their transition. Hilda's excitement and wonder about their new surroundings and the contrasting attitudes of her father and aunt set the stage for their adjustment to ranch life. Amidst this backdrop, Hilda's imaginative spirit shines through as she quickly bonds with Uncle Hank and expresses her fascination with the vast, wild landscape, symbolizing hope and adventure in the wake of their family tragedy.