Author
Theodore Goodridge Roberts
1877-1953
Theodore Goodridge Roberts (1877-1953) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Theodore Goodridge Roberts
Hemming, the adventurer
"Hemming, the Adventurer" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Captain Herbert Hemming, an officer who resigns from his commission in the army due to financial troubles stemming from his attempts to aid a reckless subaltern named Penthouse. The book dives into themes of adventure, personal integrity, and the complexities of relationships, particularly highlighting Hemming's struggles with both his financial situation and his love life. At the start of the narrative, we see Captain Hemming contemplating his resignation from the army as he grapples with the financial burden caused by his misguided generosity. The opening chapters introduce key characters, including his superior officer, the colonel, who expresses concern over Hemming's decision, and Penthouse, the subaltern whose poor choices lead to significant personal loss for Hemming. As Hemming navigates his new path as a writer and adventurer, he faces challenges both in his career and in his romantic life with Miss Molly Travers, who becomes a focal point of his emotions. The scene sets up a rich tapestry of adventure, heartache, and the search for personal redemption that is likely to resonate with readers drawn to character-driven narratives.
The Harbor Master
"The Harbor Master" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in a coastal hamlet called Chance Along, the narrative revolves around Black Dennis Nolan, a young man who transforms his impoverished fishing community into a group of unscrupulous wreckers. As the story unfolds, Nolan's ambitions and cunning set the stage for conflict both with his own community and the shipwreck victims they exploit. The opening of the book introduces the treacherous setting of Chance Along, where Black Dennis Nolan, following his father's death, schemes to convert his people's fishing endeavors into wreck salvaging. Armed with a small schooner and a team of largely impoverished fishermen, Nolan encounters resistance from some men in the village, particularly from Foxey Jack Quinn, whose defiance leads to conflict. As Nolan begins to execute his plans for wealth at the peril of stranded sailors, a storm prompts the arrival of a shipwreck, setting the stage for Nolan's ruthless ambition to unfold further.
The Red Pirogue: A Tale of Adventure in the Canadian Wilds
"The Red Pirogue: A Tale of Adventure in the Canadian Wilds" by Captain Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a fiction novel likely written in the early 20th century. This tale revolves around young Ben O'Dell, who unexpectedly encounters a little girl named Marion Sherwood while tending to salmon nets, which unfolds a series of mysterious and adventurous events intertwined with her father, a fugitive, and the enigmatic past involving their family. The opening of the novel introduces us to Ben O'Dell, an eighteen-year-old who, while navigating the beautiful Canadian wilds, discovers a large red pirogue and its occupant, a young girl named Marion. Their interaction reveals that her father, Richard Sherwood, is on the run, entangled in past troubles related to the Balenger family. As Ben helps Marion to his home, the story hints at deeper layers of conflict involving Sherwood's past and the peculiar circumstances surrounding their lives, including the burning of the red pirogue and the unexplained thefts at O'Dell's Point. This intriguing setup captures the reader's attention, creating a sense of adventure and suspense that promises further exploration of the characters’ fates and the mysteries of the wilds they inhabit.
Tom Akerley His Adventures in the Tall Timber and at Gaspard's Clearing on the Indian River
"Tom Akerley" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the protagonist, Tom Akerley, who is an officer in the Royal Air Force experiencing turmoil after striking a superior officer. Seeking refuge in the remote woods, he finds himself on the run and embroiled in a peculiar situation involving a hermit named Gaspard and his strong-willed granddaughter, Catherine. The opening of the narrative introduces Akerley in the midst of a crisis, having fled after confronting Colonel Nasher over a fallen comrade. He crashes his airplane and ends up at Gaspard's homestead, where he finds an empty yet inviting space and the mystery surrounding the inhabitants. As Akerley begins to navigate life in the wilderness, he contemplates the peculiar claims of Gaspard, who believes he encountered a devil—Akerley himself. The story unfolds into a blend of adventure and human complexities as Akerley integrates himself into the quiet rural life while dealing with the circumstances of his past, including the repercussions of his previous actions.
Green Timber Thoroughbreds
"Green Timber Thoroughbreds" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story appears to revolve around themes of bravery, rural life, and challenges involving the enigmatic and potentially dangerous Dangler family, as well as connections to horse breeding and racing. Key characters introduced so far include the resourceful Robert Vane, who arrives in a small village at a critical moment, and the young woman Josephine Hinch, whose life he saves from a burning house. At the start of the book, we witness the frantic scene of an elderly man named Dave Hinch escaping a fire, with Vane arriving just in time to rescue him and his granddaughter, Joe. Following this heroic act, Vane becomes intrigued by the horse breeding legacy linked to the Dangler family, particularly as he learns of their notorious reputation for violence and deceit. The opening chapters set a suspenseful tone, hinting at Vane's determination to explore his ambitions while facing potential dangers associated with the Dangler clan and their hidden agendas. As the chapters unfold, the tension rises with Vane's interactions with the locals, especially Joe, who warns him of the imminent and possibly life-threatening complications that may arise from his intentions.
The lure of Piper's Glen
"The Lure of Piper's Glen" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the lives of characters in the logging community along the Racket River, focusing particularly on the daring and skilled river logger, Mark Ducat, who is known as the "Cock of the River." The narrative explores themes of courage, rivalry, and the connection between nature and the rugged lifestyle of the characters. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Mark Ducat as he showcases his exceptional skills in handling logs on Racket River, earning him great respect among his peers. The narrative builds tension with the arrival of a stranger, Charlie Lavois, who challenges Mark's title and brings a bit of conflict into the cabin where the river crew resides. Meanwhile, James Todhunter, another central character, contemplates his move northward to the logging area, hoping to make a living and immerse himself in the wilds as he seeks adventure. The opening sets the stage for an exploration of the lives of these men, their struggles, and the relationships that intertwine as they navigate the challenges presented by both the river and their personal interactions.
Brothers of Peril: A Story of old Newfoundland
"Brothers of Peril: A Story of Old Newfoundland" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the tumultuous period following John Cabot’s discovery of Newfoundland, breathlessly depicting the lives of the Beothic people amidst the encroachments of European fishermen and adventurers. The story centers on two young characters: Wolf Slayer, a fierce and determined boy who proves himself in battle, and Ouenwa, the grandson of a chief, who dreams of exploring the world beyond their village. The beginning of the novel introduces a gripping scene where Wolf Slayer, having just earned his man-name, slays a great wolf and returns to his village, eager for recognition and to establish his place among the warriors. The narrative swiftly moves to Ouenwa, who serves as a foil to Wolf Slayer, possessing a more introspective nature and a thirst for knowledge about the world beyond their familiar surroundings. The tension between these two characters foreshadows deeper conflicts as they navigate the complexities of their cultural identity against the backdrop of their changing land. The opening chapters effectively set the stage for a story rich in action, adventure, and exploration of identity amid the struggles faced by the Beothic people.
The Oxbow Wizard
"The Oxbow Wizard" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Young Dan Evans, a boy living with his family in the backcountry of the Oxbow region, who becomes involved in a series of adventures and mysteries, including the disappearance of a local schoolteacher, Miss Carten. The novel introduces themes of youth, curiosity, and the challenges of rural life as Dan confronts various characters and situations in his quest to uncover the truth. The opening of "The Oxbow Wizard" sets the stage by introducing Young Dan and his family dynamics, particularly the presence of his Uncle Bill, who seems to be both a mentor and a catalyst for adventure. When a city sportsman visits, Dan finds a green-covered book left behind, sparking his imagination and fascination with the outside world. This book becomes a symbol of escapism for Dan, who yearns for adventure beyond his modest school and home life. As the chapter unfolds, the narrative hints at Dan’s growing intelligence and resourcefulness, setting the tone for the unfolding mystery involving Miss Carten's sudden disappearance and suggesting that Dan will be pivotal in uncovering the secrets that lie within his world.
Flying Plover: His stories, told him by Squat-by-the-fire
"Flying Plover: His stories, told him by Squat-by-the-fire" by G. E. Theodore Roberts is a collection of children's stories likely written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the Labrador landscape, the tales revolve around the life of a young boy named Flying Plover and the captivating stories shared by his grandmother, Squat-by-the-fire, who is depicted as a wise medicine woman. The book touches upon themes of nature, culture, and the interactions between humans and the animal kingdom through folklore and mythology. The narrative unfolds with Flying Plover living with his grandmother among the Mountaineer Indians of Labrador, where she shares nothing short of magical tales filled with great creatures like King Bear, King Walrus, and heroic figures such as Porcupine Killer. Each story delves into the adventures and conflicts among these characters, exploring lessons of bravery, wisdom, and the consequences of pride. The tales illustrate how the origins of fire came to be and how the balance of power shifted between animals and humans, showcasing the wisdom of the natural world through the eyes of a child learning about his heritage. Throughout the book, there is a rich use of imagery and allegory that contributes to an immersive experience for readers, reinforcing the cultural significance of storytelling in Indigenous traditions.
Rayton: A Backwoods Mystery
"Rayton: A Backwoods Mystery" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the peculiar happenings in the settlement of Samson's Mill after the arrival of Reginald Baynes Rayton. During a friendly poker game, a marked card bears two unsettling red crosses, causing distress among the players and encapsulating the community in an atmosphere punctuated by superstition and suspicion. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Rayton and several residents of the settlement engaged in a poker game. When young David Marsh receives a card marked with red crosses, Jim Harley's curious behavior raises doubts among the players. Harley's agitation leads him to counsel Marsh to stay away from his sister, Nell, igniting a rivalry. Afterward, David faces a more immediate crisis as he suffers a canoe accident in the Teakettle River, which leaves him with a broken arm, intensifying the anxiety surrounding the card's supernatural implications and intertwining the lives of the characters with themes of love, rivalry, and hidden motivations in this rural setting.
The Fighting Starkleys; or, The Test of Courage
"The Fighting Starkleys; or, The Test of Courage" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the Starkley family, particularly Peter Starkley, as they navigate the challenges and changes brought about by war. With themes of bravery, family ties, and the test of character, the unfolding narrative explores the dynamics of rural life during wartime. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Beaver Dam, a farming community where the Starkley family lives. Peter, along with his siblings Dick and Flora, enjoys a simple life filled with hopes and dreams for the future. However, as war breaks out, Peter grapples with the implications of enlistment and the impact it will have on his family. The opening chapters establish the relationships and aspirations of the Starkley children while hinting at the personal sacrifices that will define their coming experiences, particularly in the face of significant historical events.
The red feathers : $b A story of remarkable adventures when the world was young
"The red feathers: A story of remarkable adventures when the world was young" by Theodore Goodridge Roberts is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in a mythic, prehistoric Newfoundland, the story blends adventure, legend, and elements of indigenous folklore. It follows the Beothic hunter Run-all-day, his family, and magical figures such as Wise-as-a-she-wolf, focusing on a pair of enchanted red feathers and the rivalry between magicians. The narrative combines everyday life, survival, and the supernatural, immersing readers in a world where gods, spirits, and magic are interwoven with clan and family life. The opening of this novel establishes a rich, atmospheric setting in ancient Newfoundland, introducing Run-all-day, his close-knit family, and their seasonal rhythms of hunting, fishing, and preparing for winter. The arrival of the kind but powerful magician Wise-as-a-she-wolf brings magic into their lives in the form of two mysterious red feathers, gifted to Run-all-day's newborn son. As Run-all-day and his family grapple with the implications and dangers of possessing magical objects, ominous threats—especially the villainous magician Bright Robe—arise, fueling conflicts both mundane and supernatural. Early chapters deftly mix daily life and mythic adventure, setting the stage for epic journeys, magical contests, and acts of courage and cunning.