Author
H. C. (Herman Cyril) McNeile
1888-1937
H. C. (Herman Cyril) McNeile (1888-1937) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by H. C. (Herman Cyril) McNeile
The Dinner Club
"The Dinner Club" by H. C. McNeile is a collection of interconnected stories written in the early 20th century. The book introduces a unique concept where six distinguished members from various professions—an Actor, a Barrister, a Doctor, an Ordinary Man, a Soldier, and a Writer—gather as part of a dinner club, each sharing stories from their lives. This structure allows for exploration of different themes and human experiences, often linked through the characters' narrative contributions. At the start of the book, the establishment of the dinner club is discussed, outlining its rules, such as the requirement for a member to provide dinner while telling an engaging story connected to their profession. The opening story, recounted by the Actor, reflects on a poignant experience he had with a young woman who approaches him after a theater performance. This woman, desperate and motivated by an urgency that becomes clear as she shares her plight, seeks the Actor's assistance, setting the stage for a narrative filled with emotion and introspection. The scene captivates not just the characters involved but also introduces readers to the intricate fabric of human connections and ambitions that intertwine their fates.
The Man in Ratcatcher, and Other Stories
"The Man in Ratcatcher and Other Stories" by H. C. McNeile is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The opening story introduces us to the character of John Marston, who appears to have a mysterious past intertwined with his present, particularly involving his lost identity and the pressures surrounding his return to the hunting field after a long absence. The narrative hints at themes of memory, recognition, and the complexities of personal relationships, especially as it unfolds between Marston and a young woman named Molly. The beginning of "The Man in Ratcatcher" sets the stage with a hunting scene, where Marston mounts a less-than-stellar horse, contrasting his skills and unrecognized presence against a backdrop of social class and expectations. As he prepares to ride, the story quickly shifts to a tense hunting meet where he is confronted by memories of his former life and the people he used to know, including Molly, whom he once loved. The narrative intensifies with whispers of Marston's possible identity as a man presumed dead, leading to a dramatic moment where his identity, past guilt, and current reality collide. This opening not only establishes the main character's conflict but also beckons readers into a world filled with emotions, societal norms, and the thrill of the hunt.
Bull-dog Drummond: The Adventures of a Demobilised Officer Who Found Peace Dull
"Bull-dog Drummond: The Adventures of a Demobilised Officer Who Found Peace Dull" by H. C. McNeile is a novel published in 1920. When restless ex-Army Captain Hugh Drummond advertises for adventure in The Times, he receives a desperate reply from a young woman whose father is being blackmailed. The case leads Drummond into a dangerous conspiracy involving archvillain Carl Peterson, who plots a communist coup d'état in Britain for profit. Captured and escaping multiple times, Drummond must rely on his ex-army friends to stop Peterson's scheme.
Men, Women and Guns
"Men, Women and Guns" by H. C. McNeile is a novel written in the early 20th century. This narrative explores the complexities of human relationships amidst the chaos of World War I, intertwining themes of love, duty, and the blurring lines of morality during wartime. Central to the story are characters like Dick O'Rourke and Private Meyrick, who grapple with personal connections and combat experiences that influence their actions and decisions. The opening of the book sets a stark and immersive tone, capturing the harsh reality of war through vivid descriptions of shelling and the mental strains faced by soldiers. The prologue establishes a poignant discourse on the experiences of those living through wartime, contrasting the romantic notions of war with its grim realities. We meet Dick O'Rourke, who is haunted by love and the pressures of duty, and his turmoil is compounded by a chance encounter revealing dark secrets about love and fidelity. Meanwhile, we see Private Meyrick, portrayed as the "Company Idiot," whose dreaming nature casts him in a negative light amongst his peers; however, the narrative hints at his potential for heroism despite the mockery he endures. This opening not only introduces us to the characters' personal struggles but also hints at the larger conflicts and challenges they will face as the war unfolds.
The seven missionaries
"The Seven Missionaries" by Major H. C. McNeile is a suspenseful narrative that falls within the genre of adventure fiction, likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a voyage on the S.S. Andaman, spotlighting themes of piracy and deception as it follows the events that unfold with a group of missionaries and the unexpected twists that arise during the journey. The tale captures the tension of sea travel during a time when maritime piracy was still a concern. The plot begins with Captain James Kelly navigating the Andaman, which carries a motley crew of passengers, including seven missionaries heading to Colombo. The story takes a dramatic turn when it becomes apparent that these missionaries are not what they seem. Jim Maitland, a protagonist who suspects something amiss, later discovers that the missionaries are actually pirates plotting to hijack the ship, targeting a valuable cargo of gold and pearls aboard. As the deceit unfolds, Jim finds himself in a precarious situation that ultimately leads to a thrilling confrontation. The narrative escalates into an explosive conclusion, illustrating themes of courage and cleverness in outwitting the unsuspecting villains while leaving readers questioning the true nature of appearances.
The Valley of the Shadow
"The Valley of the Shadow" by H. C. McNeile is a suspenseful novel written in the early 20th century. The story delves into themes of jealousy, love, and the extreme lengths one might go to in a tumultuous relationship, exploring the psychological depths of its characters. The narrative centers on Hilda Garling, who grapples with her oppressive marriage to Hubert Garling, a man consumed by jealousy and heart trouble. When her husband invites Jack Denver, a charming army officer, to their home, Hilda must confront her feelings for him and the implications of her actions. As tensions rise, Hubert’s jealousy culminates in a twisted plot that traps Hilda and Jack in a small, sealed tower, where they must find a way to escape his deadly intentions. The story unfolds with urgency, revealing the complexities of love, betrayal, and the fight for survival in the face of madness.
Mufti
"Mufti" by H. C. McNeile is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book is set during World War I and follows Derek Vane, an officer in the army, and his interactions with various characters, introducing themes of war, love, and the search for meaning amidst chaos. The story juxtaposes the brutal realities of warfare with moments of light-heartedness and deep emotional reflection. The opening of the novel presents a series of scenes in the wartime setting that highlight the senses of futility and disillusionment felt by the soldiers. We meet Derek Vane, who is depicted relaxing in a makeshift camp, seemingly detached from the surrounding war, while fellow officers engage in playful banter. The narrative shifts to a dramatic air attack, revealing the stark reality of war with the deaths of enemy pilots, which elicits a mix of indifference and reflection on the events' meaning for those who survive. As Vane continues to navigate the complexities of his experiences and relationships, particularly with a V.A.D. named Margaret Trent, the novel hints at a deeper examination of the characters' emotional transformations as a result of their wartime experiences.
No Man's Land
"No Man's Land" by H. C. McNeile is a novel written in the early 20th century, specifically during the time surrounding World War I. The book delves into the experiences of soldiers during the war, told through the perspective of Clive Draycott, an officer called back to service after a period of leave. It captures the emotions, fears, and everyday realities of soldiers faced with the chaos and brutality of battle, while painting a vivid portrait of the camaraderie and resilience among men during tumultuous times. The opening of the novel introduces the lead character, Clive Draycott, and sets the stage for the narrative by exploring the atmosphere before the onset of war. As Draycott prepares for his return to the front lines, he reflects on the changes and fears that grip the society around him, contrasting the carefree attitude of civilians with the heavy burdens of duty and honor that weigh on soldiers. The narrative unfolds with a mix of personal anecdotes and broader observations on the impact of the war, with poignant moments illustrating the pain endured by both those who go to fight and the loved ones they leave behind. The opening establishes an intimate connection between Draycott and the reader, hinting at the profound journey ahead as he steps into the chaos of "No Man's Land."