Author
E. Hoffmann Price
1898-1988
E. Hoffmann Price (1898-1988) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by E. Hoffmann Price
Exile From Venus
"Exile From Venus" by E. Hoffmann Price is a science fiction novel likely written in the early to mid-20th century. The story follows Craig Verrill, a Venusian who reluctantly returns to the perilous and radioactive Earth, motivated by an impulsive promise and a quest for the legendary ruby known as the Fire of Skanderbek. The book explores themes of civilization versus savagery as it juxtaposes the orderly life under the domes of Venus with the chaotic existence of primitive Terrestrians. The narrative centers on Verrill's journey as he attempts to assert himself among the savage tribes of Earth after a quarrel over a ruby, leading to heroic adventures and unexpected bonds. After facing danger and navigating the treacherous relationships with the Terrestrians, Verrill saves the life of a child, impressing the local chief, Ardelan, and earning their respect. His growing connection to a Terrestrian woman named Falana complicates his original mission to steal the coveted ruby, ultimately leading to a climactic confrontation with an old rival, Gil Dawson. The book culminates as Verrill embraces his new life and fate among the Terrestrians, revealing profound transformations in character and values.
The girl from Samarcand
"The Girl from Samarcand" by E. Hoffmann Price is a short story that blends elements of fantasy and romance, crafted during the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the intricate relationship between a man and a mystifying rug from Samarcand, exploring themes of love, longing, and the supernatural. The story is set against a backdrop rich with exotic imagery and the allure of the East, reflecting the escapism often found in literature from this period. The plot follows Hammersmith Clarke, an avid collector of exquisite rugs, particularly one that is revealed to possess a deep connection to his past and a hauntingly beautiful Yellow Girl entwined within its fibers. As Clarke becomes increasingly enchanted by the rug, his relationship with his wife, Diane, deteriorates, resulting in tension and a confrontation over the rug's influence over him. Eventually, the rug manifests itself as a magical gateway to Clarke's past life, where he reunites with the Yellow Girl, his lost love, transforming the narrative into a poignant exploration of memory and the human desire to reclaim lost connections. The ending leaves readers contemplating the boundaries between the physical and the ethereal, and the sacrifices made in the name of love.
A jest and a vengeance
"A Jest and a Vengeance" by E. Hoffmann Price is a narrative that combines elements of fantasy and dark humor written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around Sultan Schamas ad Din of Angor-lana, who finds himself besieged by inner treachery and external rebellion. With the imminent threat of being deposed by his nephew Maksoud, who is allied with the British Resident, the sultan's journey into the supernatural aspects of revenge leads him to Atlânaat, a mystical citadel filled with both promise and peril. In the unfolding tale, Sultan Schamas ad Din seeks vengeance against Maksoud after surviving an assassination attempt. Joined by the enigmatic Ismeddin, the sultan ventures into the haunted ruins of Atlânaat, a place where ancient magic and illusory beings dwell. He encounters a beautiful girl who reveals his interaction with the powerful Lord of the World, who dreams reality itself. The tale escalates as the sultan ultimately devises a fitting punishment for Maksoud that reflects his folly and ambition. Instead of lethal retribution, the sultan grants his nephew the very throne he sought, ensuring that he experiences the hollow and frustrating nature of rule under the thumb of foreign influence, thus delivering a dose of poetic justice layered in wit.
Satan's garden
"Satan's Garden" by E. Hoffmann Price is a thrilling adventure novel crafted in the early 20th century. Set in the mystical surroundings of Bayonne, it intertwines elements of occultism, supernatural horror, and intrigue. The story begins with Glenn Farrell and his companion Pierre d'Artois attempting to uncover the invisible forces tormenting a beautiful girl named Antoinette, who is caught in a terrifying cycle of beatings connected to an unseen evil rooted in a mysterious garden, hinting at a connection to hasheesh-eaters. The opening of the narrative introduces the characters of Glenn Farrell and Pierre d'Artois, who are deep in contemplation about the strange occurrences surrounding Antoinette. As they monitor her restless nights, they are drawn into escalating supernatural events that culminate in a sense of dread, including the horrific sight of Antoinette suffering from invisible lashings. Struggling to comprehend the forces at play, they uncover hints of an ancient evil tied to the lore of the "Assassins" and the dark magic of a veiled master. The gripping atmosphere sets the stage for a clash between rationality and the inexplicable, suggesting a larger conspiracy as they resolve to protect Antoinette from her nightly torment and the overarching terror of "Satan's Garden."