Author
Herbert Quick
1861-1925
Herbert Quick (1861-1925) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Herbert Quick
Aladdin & Co.: A Romance of Yankee Magic
"Aladdin & Co.: A Romance of Yankee Magic" by Herbert Quick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with an intriguing portrayal of a young delegate at a national political convention, who is unexpectedly swept away by thoughts of his newfound love, Alice. As the protagonist navigates his experiences in both personal and political realms, themes of ambition, romance, and the quest for identity seem to intertwine throughout the narrative. At the start of the novel, the central character, Albert Barslow, reflects on his role as a delegate while grappling with a sense of disconnection from the political fervor surrounding him. Struggling to find solace amid the chaos, he retreats to an art gallery, where his thoughts drift to Alice, his love interest, revealing his deeper emotional struggles. The opening chapters introduce other key figures, including Jim Elkins, who emphasizes a business-oriented vision for Lattimore, a town set to grow, alongside romantic tensions involving a young artist and her suitor. The foundation is laid for a rich exploration of dreams, relationships, and the tensions between personal aspirations and societal expectations.
Yellowstone Nights
"Yellowstone Nights" by Herbert Quick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in and around Yellowstone Park, featuring a diverse group of characters who embark on an adventure. Central to the narrative is a young couple in love, alongside an assortment of characters including an ornithologist, a minor poet, and a cowboy-like driver, as they navigate both the park’s natural wonders and interpersonal dynamics. The opening of "Yellowstone Nights" introduces us to a picturesque scene in Yellowstone Park, where a young couple, amidst playful affection, are observed by a naturalist engrossed in his studies. As the characters interact, humor and light-hearted banter fill the text, establishing a camaraderie among the eclectic party that forms around them. The presence of the ornithologist with his glasses and note-taking, and the introduction of townsfolk and artists, hint at a broader exploration of both the park’s magnificence and the complexities of human relationships, foreshadowing incidents of adventure and possibly misadventure in the great outdoors. The narrative sets the stage for charming encounters that blend romance with the awe of nature's wonders.
Vandemark's Folly
"Vandemark's Folly" by Herbert Quick is a novel written in the early 20th century. It tells the story of Jacobus Teunis Vandemark, referred to as J.T. Vandemark, who reflects on his experiences as the first settler in Vandemark Township, Iowa. The narrative is a blend of personal history and the broader story of settlement in the American West, exploring themes of hardship, resilience, and community. At the start of the novel, J.T. Vandemark is introduced as a narrator tasked with writing the history of Vandemark Township. He describes his skepticism about a commercial history project and the deceptive agent trying to profit from local pride. Encouraged by his granddaughter Gertrude to continue his history, he reminisces about his beginnings, life under the influence of his cruel stepfather John Rucker, and his arduous childhood in factories. The beginning establishes Vandemark's identity and sets the stage for his journey, detailing the pivotal events that shaped his life as he navigates both personal challenges and the ongoing movement of settlers toward the West.
Double Trouble; Or, Every Hero His Own Villain
"Double Trouble; Or, Every Hero His Own Villain" by Herbert Quick is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Florian Amidon, a respectable banker with artistic aspirations, who undergoes a mysterious transformation that leads to an existential crisis regarding his identity and experiences. The narrative is a mix of psychological intrigue and social commentary in a charming setting. At the start of the book, Florian Amidon is preparing for a brief getaway, mentally wrestling with the mundane pressures of his banking life. His departure is marked by anxious farewells and hints of an internal struggle. Upon awakening in a moving train, he finds himself in the guise of another man, Eugene Brassfield, with no memory of the five years that have elapsed. The poignant opening establishes a sense of disorientation as Florian comes to grips with his new reality—one filled with unexpected connections, a fiancée named Elizabeth, and a mysterious relationship with a woman named Madame le Claire, all of which compel him to confront the remnants of his previous life.
The Brown Mouse
"The Brown Mouse" by Herbert Quick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Jim Irwin, a farmhand struggling with his identity and aspirations, as he unexpectedly finds himself appointed as a schoolteacher. The narrative explores themes of class, ambition, and the pursuit of a meaningful life against the backdrop of rural America. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jim Irwin and Jennie Woodruff, a farmer's daughter. Their interaction begins with a simple yet pivotal moment when Jennie dismisses the idea of Jim marrying her with a derisive "Humph!" This offhand comment triggers a chain of events that lead Jim to reflect on his stagnant life, prompting his decision to pursue a teaching position. The opening establishes Jim's internal conflict between his duties, his unfulfilled dreams, and his feelings for Jennie, while also hinting at the broader societal expectations and limitations placed on individuals in rural settings. The narrative teases the promise of transformation for both Jim and the community as they navigate the complexities of their relationships and aspirations.