Author
John Oxenham
1852-1941
John Oxenham (1852-1941) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by John Oxenham
"1914"
"1914" by John Oxenham is a historical fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set on the eve of World War I, focusing on the life of Mr. John Dare, an import-export merchant, who is experiencing unease over his business dealings as political tensions escalate throughout Europe. The narrative explores his family dynamics, particularly concerning his daughter Lois, who is studying music in Germany, and the potential ramifications of the brewing conflict on their lives. The opening of the book introduces us to the quiet morning of July 25, 1914, as Mr. Dare contemplates his growing worries about the impending war and its impact on his business and familial responsibilities. He is anxious about his daughter Lois, who may be in danger due to rising tensions following the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand. As he discusses the potential for global conflict with his wife, they plan to bring Lois home, while also revealing the day-to-day familial interactions that highlight the normalcy before chaos. The narrative establishes a backdrop of looming disaster, intertwining personal stakes with the larger historical narrative of the onset of World War I.
A Maid of the Silver Sea
"A Maid of the Silver Sea" by John Oxenham is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the remote island setting of Sark, focusing on the lives of two children, Nance and her half-brother Tom. As the mining industry transforms their once serene existence into a world filled with bustle and greed, the narrative explores themes of family conflict, personal growth, and the encroachment of modernity on traditional life. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Nance and Tom, who share a tumultuous sibling relationship against the backdrop of their transforming island. The siblings hide in a natural nook overlooking the busy Port Gorey, as Nance expresses her disdain for the disruptive mining activity that has altered their peaceful home. Tom, meanwhile, exhibits a mischievous nature as he engages Nance in banter. The chapter sets the stage for the struggles the characters will face as their family dynamics, defined by Tom's bullying and their mother's love, are tested amidst the rapid changes brought by the mines. Each character's personality and their evolving relationships hint at a deeper exploration of resilience and identity throughout the unfolding story.
Pearl of Pearl Island
"Pearl of Pearl Island" by John Oxenham is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around John Graeme, a young writer navigating his feelings for Margaret Brandt, an heiress under the guardianship of the highly respected but overbearing Mr. Jeremiah Pixley. The narrative unfolds as Graeme seeks solace and inspiration in love amidst the complications introduced by Margaret's familial ties and her uncle's plans for her future. The opening of the novel introduces us to Graeme and Lady Elspeth, who discusses the young man's affections for Margaret. We see his longing for her brought to life through witty banter and tender interactions, revealing his insecurities and ambitions as a writer. Amidst their conversations, we learn about Margaret’s status as an heiress and the obstacles that the character of Mr. Pixley presents. As the story progresses, the complexities of their relationship are underscored by Graeme's determination to secure a future with Margaret, despite the looming influence of her family and societal expectations. The lively characters and emotional depth set the stage for a captivating exploration of love, ambition, and the quest for belonging.
White Fire
"White Fire" by John Oxenham is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the characters Jean Arnot, a wealthy and inquisitive young woman, and Kenneth Blair, an aspiring missionary eager to serve in the South Seas. As their paths cross, themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of purpose begin to unfold, making the narrative rich in both emotional depth and moral dilemmas. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to a thirteen-year-old Jean, who is embarking on an adventure near her home, where she encounters Kenneth, a herd-laddie with dreams of becoming an explorer. Their innocent interaction is marked by a budding curiosity and admiration, laying the groundwork for their future. As time passes, we learn about Jean's evolution into a wealthy young woman who seeks fulfillment in her life. After a dramatic meeting where Kenneth speaks of his missionary aspirations, Jean's feelings for him intensify, leading her to a bold decision that intertwines her fate with his. The opening section skillfully sets the stage for the exploration of their intertwined destinies and the challenges they will face together.
The Coil of Carne
"The Coil of Carne" by John Oxenham is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Carron family and the enigmatic history of their ancestral home, Carne, set against a backdrop of societal upheaval and personal intrigue. The narrative captures the intricate lives of the characters, particularly focusing on the implications of love, betrayal, and the passage of time within a family. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to the isolated yet imposing coastal house of Carne, built by Denzil Carron as a refuge during a time of religious persecution. The opening chapters explore the history of the Carron family and set the stage for the central conflicts to emerge, including the chaotic love life of Denzil Carron, his son, and the aftermath of his decisions. The narrative hints at generational struggles, familial duty, and the profound consequences of choices made, all underlined by the ominous presence of Carne and the unpredictable nature of the sea.
Bees in Amber: A Little Book of Thoughtful Verse
"Bees in Amber: A Little Book of Thoughtful Verse" by John Oxenham is a collection of poetry published in the early 20th century. This compilation appears to serve as a thoughtful reflection on various aspects of life, faith, and human emotion, expressed through a series of individual poems that explore themes such as love, loss, spirituality, and the search for meaning. The opening of the collection provides insight into the author's intentions and style. Oxenham reveals that these poems arose from moments of inspiration and reflection, often in response to life’s complexities. The poems range in tone and subject, reflecting a journey through personal belief and the nuances of existence—sometimes touching on the divine, while at other times, addressing earthly matters with warmth and sincerity. The first piece, "Credo," establishes a strong spiritual foundation, emphasizing personal belief in Christ over dogma. This theme of spirituality continues through the opening poems, suggesting a deep exploration of faith, life’s struggles, and a hopeful search for peace and understanding.
Maid of the Mist
"Maid of the Mist" by John Oxenham is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens with a scene centered around a hunting party in the English countryside, showcasing their struggles and camaraderie amid the challenges of the chase. The narrative introduces several key characters, including Wulfrey Dale, a compassionate doctor, and Pasley Carew, the master of the hunt, whose reckless nature and temperament set the stage for conflict and drama. At the start of the novel, a hunting accident leaves Pasley Carew gravely injured, revealing the darker sides of both his character and the harsh realities of their social setting. As Wulfrey Dale tends to Carew, the emotional undercurrents of their relationships unfold, particularly concerning Elinor, Carew's wife, and Wulfrey's long-held feelings for her. The opening sets a tone of tension and foreboding, as Carew's temper and fatalism indicate that the consequences of their lives and choices will lead to deeper turmoil. This suspenseful beginning hints at themes of love, sacrifice, and the moral complexities faced by the characters intertwined in their fates.
Carette of Sark
"Carette of Sark" by John Oxenham is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the small, picturesque island of Sark, the story revolves around the lives of its inhabitants, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by the main character, Rachel Carré, and her troubled marriage to Paul Martel. The narrative explores themes of love, resilience, and community within the context of an island steeped in rich history and tradition. The beginning of "Carette of Sark" introduces us to the narrator, who reflects on his childhood on the island and the complex dynamics of his family life. We learn about his mother, Rachel Carré, and her difficult relationship with Martel, a volatile figure who has brought turmoil to their lives. As events unfold, Martel faces punishment from the local community for his abusive behavior, leading to his banishment from the island. The opening chapters set the stage for the intertwined stories of love, conflict, and identity among the islanders, hinting at the deep connections and struggles that will define their lives moving forward.
'All's Well!'
"All's Well!" by John Oxenham is a collection of poems written in the early 20th century, specifically during the tumultuous period of World War I. The work is dedicated to soldiers and their families, reflecting themes of duty, sacrifice, and the hope for a brighter future. The verses are both a tribute to those fighting at the front and a message of comfort to those left behind, emphasizing faith and the divine promise of justice and peace. At the start of the volume, Oxenham expresses deep sympathy and admiration for soldiers and their loved ones, establishing the tone of reverence for their sacrifices. In the foreword, he acknowledges the horrors of war while simultaneously calling for resilience and hope, asserting that the worst of human nature can yield opportunities for displaying the best qualities. The poems that follow touch upon profound topics such as loss, bravery, and the enduring strength of faith, invoking both spiritual solace and an ethical call to action for a better future. Through rich imagery and heartfelt sentiment, the opening of "All's Well!" sets the stage for a reflective exploration of human dignity amidst the ravages of war.
Hearts in exile
"Hearts in exile" by John Oxenham is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in late-Tsarist Russia, it centers on Hope Arskaïa, a resolute idealist devoted to “the people,” and the two men who love her: earnest Paul Pavlof and wealthy Serge Palma. When Hope marries Serge on the condition that his fortune support her social work, all three are drawn into the ruthless machinery of repression and Siberian exile. The story explores love, sacrifice, and moral courage under autocracy. The opening of the novel follows Paul’s restrained proposal and Hope’s refusal in favor of a marriage of duty to Serge, whose money can further her humanitarian work in Odessa. Serge grows into her mission, but after a high-profile assassination the crackdown begins; he is arrested and vanishes, while Hope’s desperate search ends in collapse and a frail recovery as she gives birth in the countryside. The scene shifts to Tomsk’s forwarding prison and the Great Siberian Road, where Paul—himself seized under administrative process—encounters a grim procession of convicts, a kindly old man with a squeaking barrow, a child clinging to her cat, a failed mass escape, and a brutal reprisal that turns one prisoner into an avenger. As the convoys push east and the two men meet again in the stockade, Paul quietly resolves the triangle by trading places with Serge: he takes the harsher road to Kara, while Serge is assigned to the provinces with a real chance to slip away and find Hope.