Author
H. De Vere (Henry De Vere) Stacpoole
1863-1951
H. De Vere (Henry De Vere) Stacpoole (1863-1951) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by H. De Vere (Henry De Vere) Stacpoole
The Blue Lagoon: A Romance
"The Blue Lagoon: A Romance" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a coming-of-age romance novel published in 1908. Two young cousins are shipwrecked on a remote South Pacific island, where they must survive alone after their caretaker dies. Growing up in isolation, they discover the mysteries of nature, maturity, and love without guidance from civilization. As they navigate island dangers and their own transformation into adulthood, their innocent paradise becomes a place of wonder and peril, leading to an ambiguous fate.
The Beach of Dreams: A Romance
"The Beach of Dreams: A Romance" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds on the high seas, focusing on a group of sailors aboard the ship Albatross and a lavish yacht, the Gaston de Paris. The story examines themes of adventure and survival, highlighting characters like Raft, an experienced sailor, and Cléo de Bromsart, a young girl caught in the turmoil of fate as she navigates a shipwreck and the wild environment of Kerguelen. The opening of the book introduces us to the crew of the Albatross, particularly Raft, who has a rugged past marked by hardship and the sea. As the ship sails towards Kerguelen, discussions among the sailors reveal their frustrations with life and labor, illustrating the harsh realities they face. Interspersed with their conversations, we learn about Prince Selm, the owner of the Gaston de Paris, who seeks to explore distant waters and is accompanied by engaging characters. Just as tensions build and events take a disastrous turn with a collision, the narrative sets the stage for survival in a wild, unfamiliar landscape, launching Cléo and the surviving crew into an uncertain struggle against nature and their own fears.
The Drums of War
"The Drums of War" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of pre-World War I Europe, particularly during 1860 in Germany, the story unfolds through the eyes of a young boy named Patrick, who traverses various adventures alongside his father, General Count Mahon, and their servant, Joubert. The narrative delves into themes of war, family dynamics, childhood innocence, and the complexities of growing up. At the start of the novel, Patrick recounts a long journey to Frankfort with his father and Joubert, reflecting on the sights and smells that enchant his young mind. His childhood dreams of soldiering, peppered with memories of old family tales, intertwine with their destination: a visit to the Schloss Lichtenberg, the ancestral home of his mother’s family. As they arrive, the atmosphere shifts with the presence of a mysterious Baron and a sense of unease that blankets the encounters awaiting them. Tensions begin to mount as Patrick navigates familial ties, the expectations of adulthood, and the foreboding feeling of past tragedies echoing through the present, setting the stage for a captivating tale of adventure, intrigue, and the onset of conflict.
The Pearl Fishers
"The Pearl Fishers" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young sailor named Floyd, who survives a shipwreck and finds himself adrift in the Pacific before discovering a deserted lagoon island. There, he encounters Schumer, a trader who survived another maritime disaster, and Isbel, a Polynesian girl. Together, they delve into the mysterious depths of the lagoon, driven by the hope of finding riches in pearls. The opening of the novel introduces Floyd as he awakens alone in a small boat after the catastrophic fire of the schooner "Cormorant". We witness his flashbacks to the events leading up to the disaster, revealing the tension between the ship's crew, culminating in a tragic loss of life. As he drifts at sea, Floyd's hope rekindles when he spots an island and eventually meets Schumer and Isbel. Their interactions hint at an adventurous journey ahead, filled with both the promise of treasure and the complexities of human relationships in isolation.
Ocean Tramps
"Ocean Tramps" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work depicts the adventures of two men, Billy Harman and Bud Davis, as they navigate the perils and thrills of life on the seas, particularly around the Pacific Islands. At the heart of the narrative is the quest for fortune, marked by their encounters with deception, romance, and the allure of wealth, particularly through the eyes of the love interest of one of the protagonists. At the start of "Ocean Tramps," the scene sets itself in Papaleete, where we meet Billy Harman, a down-on-his-luck, good-natured man who is approached by Davis, his equally aimless but shrewd companion. They plot to steal a ship owned by a man they both disdain, leading to a series of moral dilemmas as they wrestle with their actions and the potential consequences of their schemes. The narrative presents their banter and reflections, showcasing their contrasting personalities as they embark on a dangerous adventure that intertwines with intrigue and the possibility of love. Through vivid descriptions and engaging dialogue, the opening chapters establish a world of possibility mixed with the unpredictability of their choices.
Garryowen
"Garryowen" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the picturesque backdrop of the Irish coast, focusing on the intricate lives of the characters associated with Drumgool House, particularly Miss Effie French, an invalid girl, and Moriarty, her quirky caretaker. The narrative revolves around themes of companionship, the beauty of nature, and the complexities of human relationships in a rural setting. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the great old house of Drumgool and its surroundings, where the sounds and sights of the Atlantic Ocean play a vital role. As we meet Miss Effie French, who is of frail health and uses a bath-chair, we see her interactions with Moriarty, who displays a mix of affection and authority towards her. The opening chapters set the stage for the arrival of a governess, Miss Grimshaw, and highlight the household dynamics, Mr. French's financial troubles related to horse racing, and the everyday beauty and challenges of life in this remote Irish setting. The stage is beautifully set for the unfolding of personal and financial dramas intertwined with the characters’ lives as the story progresses.
Patsy
"Patsy" by H. de Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a picturesque Irish setting and revolves around the experiences of a young boy named Patsy Rooney. As he navigates his life, the narrative explores themes of love, adventure, and the clash between the innocence of youth and the complexities of adult desires. The opening of the novel introduces Richard Fanshawe, a young man staying with friends for hunting who receives a letter from an old acquaintance inviting him to a house party. This letter brings to light the complexities of his emotions, particularly his feelings for Violet Lestrange. As the narrative shifts to mention Patsy, the son of the local gamekeeper, we see his life intertwined with the impending arrival of the upper class to Glen Druid Park, where he is eager to serve in the household. The introduction sets up a contrast between Patsy's humble beginnings and the lives of the more privileged characters, hinting at future adventures and interactions that will shape the plot.
Fanny Lambert: A Novel
"Fanny Lambert: A Novel" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a work of fiction likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Fanny Lambert and her interactions in a world filled with quirky characters, including an artist named Mr. Leavesley and his unconventional friend Mr. Verneede. The narrative hints at themes of love, innocence, and complex family dynamics as Fanny navigates her life influenced by her father's legal troubles and their social standings. The opening portion introduces us to the artist Mr. Leavesley, who is eagerly awaiting a visit from Fanny Lambert, a charming and innocent girl. As he paints, he reflects on her letter asking for advice regarding her father's overwhelming worries about a legal dispute, providing a glimpse into their intertwining lives. The character of Fanny is depicted as lively and relatable, mixing humor with a clear affection for her father, who seems to be embroiled in troubles over an ongoing lawsuit regarding fishing rights with a wealthy cousin, Mr. Bevan. Mr. Verneede adds a layer of comedic eccentricity, emphasizing the quirky atmosphere that permeates the narrative. This introductory section sets the stage for a tale rich with relationships, societal expectations, and the complexities of innocence amid adult predicaments.
The Pools of Silence
"The Pools of Silence" by H. de Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the character Dr. Paul Quincy Adams, an American physician attending post-graduate lectures in Paris, whose life takes an adventurous turn when he is offered a medical position on a big-game hunting expedition to the Congo by the enigmatic Captain Berselius. The narrative likely explores themes of adventure, morality, and the contrast between civilization and the wild, as Adams confronts the complexities of human nature and the inherent dangers of the jungle. The opening of this novel sets a vivid stage in Paris, where the sun sets in dramatic hues, reflecting the chill of a winter’s day. Dr. Adams, a tall and strong figure, arrives at a lecture by Dr. Thénard, a neurologist with an impressive reputation. As the lecture unfolds, Dr. Adams's life is transformed by a chance encounter with Captain Berselius, who seeks a medical companion for his expedition. After some hesitation about the roughness of the task ahead, Adams is drawn into the intrigue of the Congo adventure and the character of Berselius, who exudes an unsettling charm but poses risks that others are wary of. This initial setup establishes both a sense of impending adventure and the moral complexities that await in the wild, engaging the reader to delve further into Adams's journey.
The Ghost Girl
"The Ghost Girl" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Phylice Berknowles, a young girl grappling with the complexities of life and loss following the death of her father. Set in Ireland, the narrative explores themes of family, identity, and the clash between tradition and change as Phyl navigates her connections to her past and her uncertain future. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Phyl, a spirited fifteen-year-old girl in the aftermath of her father's death. Living in the family estate of Kilgobbin, Phyl is depicted reading by the fire in the library, revealing her profound sense of loss while she contemplates her father's untimely death. Introduced alongside her is Mr. Hennessey, the family lawyer, who expresses mixed sentiments regarding the arrival of Mr. Pinckney, an American cousin and heir to her father's estate. Phyl is hesitant and wary of change, sensing that Mr. Pinckney's arrival will disrupt the familiarity of her life at Kilgobbin. As tensions escalate with her internal struggle and her interactions with Pinckney, including a memorable clash where their tempers ignite, Phyl's journey reflects her desire for autonomy and connection amidst the unpredictability of her life.
Vanderdecken
"Vanderdecken" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with George du Cane, a wealthy orphan who is about to inherit a large fortune, and introduces a cast of characters including Hank Fisher, a quirky and adventurous man from the Bohemian Club. The narrative unfolds around the chase of a notorious yacht raider named Vanderdecken, whose exploits capture the attention of the protagonist and his companions as they concoct a plan to hunt him down. The opening of the novel introduces George du Cane in the Bohemian Club, where he navigates conversations about the criminal activities of Vanderdecken, a figure of infamy associated with yacht raiding. Amidst the discussions about the dwindling state of social activities due to Prohibition, Hank Fisher's determination to pursue Vanderdecken becomes evident as he reveals a personal motivation to earn the reward for capturing the pirate. As the plot thickens, both George and Hank become entangled in their quest, which leads them to acquire a decrepit yacht, the "Wear Jack", to brave the waters in search of the elusive raider. The tension builds as they face challenges and interpersonal dynamics, hinting at the adventures and mishaps that await them on their daring escapade.
Death, the Knight, and the Lady: A Ghost Story
"Death, the Knight, and the Lady: A Ghost Story" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story delves into themes of love, loss, and the uncanny intertwining of past lives, revolving around the characters of Beatrice Sinclair and James Wilder as they navigate a complex web of family curses and undercurrents of supernatural influence. As the tale unfolds, it promises to explore haunting mysteries and poignant emotions against a richly atmospheric backdrop. The opening of the novel introduces us to the character of James Wilder, who urgently summons a friend, hinting at his desperation and torment tied to the strange fate surrounding a deceased woman. The dialogue between Wilder and his friend reveals a sense of impending doom as they discuss the rituals surrounding this woman, who is ultimately linked to the mysterious Sir Gerald Wilder. As the protagonist is drawn into this enigmatic world, we see glimpses of idyllic yet eerie settings, establishing a haunting atmosphere. The narrative transitions into Beatrice Sinclair's perspective as she begins to recall her troubled past, setting the stage for an exploration of identity and interconnected destinies that will lead into a rich tapestry of ghostly intrigue.
The Garden of God
"The Garden of God" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a romance novel published in 1923. This sequel to "The Blue Lagoon" follows the orphaned child of Dick and Emmeline, raised on a remote Pacific island by his grandfather and a roguish sailor. When a young woman from a neighboring island arrives after a storm, the boy grows into manhood alongside her. But cultural taboos and mounting tensions with her hostile tribe threaten their isolated paradise, leading toward an inevitable and dangerous confrontation.
The Gates of Morning
"The Gates of Morning" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a romance novel published in 1925. The final installment of the Blue Lagoon trilogy follows young Dick Lestrange, now declared king of a vulnerable South Sea island. As he works to protect his adopted people from external threats, a mutiny aboard a pearl-hunting schooner brings violence to their shores. Written as an exposé of European destruction of island cultures, the novel weaves together themes of innocence, exploitation, and survival in paradise.
Satan: A Romance of the Bahamas
"Satan: A Romance of the Bahamas" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the adventures of Bobby Ratcliffe, a young man on a winter cruise in the Bahamas aboard a yacht named the "Dryad", alongside his somewhat stuffy companion, Skelton. The plot begins to unfold through themes of adventure and exploration as the characters encounter vibrant personalities like the Tylers, notably Satan and Jude, who live a carefree and unconventional life at sea. The opening of the story introduces the tropical setting and the contrasting personalities of the main characters. Bobby Ratcliffe, who longs for excitement, finds himself adrift with Skelton, whose rigid adherence to propriety frustrates him. During their cruise, they stumble upon the Tylers, whose free-spirited ways and intriguing backstories, particularly involving pirate lore and treasure, capture Ratcliffe's imagination. As Bobby's dissatisfaction with the mundane life aboard the "Dryad" grows, he becomes increasingly entangled in the Tylers' world, leading to tensions with Skelton and setting the stage for a dramatic exploration of freedom and adventure in the Caribbean.
Corporal Jacques of the Foreign Legion
"Corporal Jacques of the Foreign Legion" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the life of Corporal Jacques Radoub, a tough yet witty character who is a member of the notorious French Foreign Legion, exploring themes of camaraderie, survival, and the quest for freedom amidst the harsh desert landscape. Throughout the story, Jacques navigates the complexities of military life, criminal pasts, and personal loyalties, as he becomes particularly attached to his loyal dog, Choc. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Sidi-bel-Abbès, the headquarters of the Foreign Legion, where the life of the légionnaires unfolds. The opening chapters detail Jacques' daily routine, interactions with fellow soldiers, and his playful bond with Choc, a scrappy dog he has taken under his wing. As rumors about Choc facing execution spread, Jacques grapples with the threat to his dog’s life and begins to contemplate an escape from the drudgery of the Legion, prioritizing his connection to Choc over his own imminent freedom. This setup establishes a rich and engaging atmosphere that hints at future adventures and challenges within the backdrop of a tumultuous and unforgiving military life.
The Presentation
"The Presentation" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a historical novel set in the tumultuous period of 18th-century France. The narrative revolves around the intricate web of court politics and personal ambitions surrounding the infamous Comtesse Dubarry as she prepares for her highly anticipated presentation at the royal court of King Louis XV. The opening chapters introduce a vibrant cast of characters, including the witty and reckless Comte de Rochefort, who navigates the treacherous waters of court intrigue and personal entanglements. The opening of the book sets the stage on the night of the Duc de Choiseul’s grand ball, showcasing the air of excitement and tension as everyone anticipates Dubarry’s social ascent. As court factions vie for power, Rochefort emerges as a pivotal figure caught between loyalty and self-interest. Readers witness the unfolding drama as he learns of a conspiracy to sabotage Dubarry’s presentation, further complicated by his chance encounter with various schemers and allies. The atmosphere is rich with intrigue, hinting at themes of ambition, deception, and the folly of love, laying the groundwork for the conflicts that will drive the narrative forward.
The Ship of Coral
"The Ship of Coral" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a tropical setting where the main characters, Gaspard Cadillac and his companion Yves, find themselves shipwrecked on a deserted islet after the catastrophic explosion of their ship, the "Rhone". As they adapt to their new reality, themes of survival, isolation, and the complexities of human relationships emerge, highlighted by Gaspard's inner turmoil and emotional struggles. At the start of the narrative, Gaspard and Yves are depicted in peaceful but precarious circumstances on the islet, grappling with their thoughts and the past. Surrounded by the pristine beauty of the sea and its mysteries, Gaspard reflects on his feelings for Anisette, a woman who had caused tensions between him and Yves. When they discover a hidden shipwreck in a lagoon—a ghostly remnant of a past voyage—curiosity intertwines with foreboding. As the story progresses, their contrasting personalities lead to conflict, culminating in tragedy when Gaspard accidentally kills Yves during a heated argument. This pivotal moment thrusts Gaspard into a harrowing journey of loneliness and guilt, setting the stage for a struggle not only against the elements but within himself as he navigates the consequences of his actions.
Sea Plunder
"Sea Plunder" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Captain Blood, an experienced but down-on-his-luck Irish mariner, who, alongside his crimping companion Billy Harman, gets involved in a mysterious and dubious venture involving deep-sea cables. As they accept a job from enigmatic figures, they embark on a sea adventure laden with intrigue, with themes of piracy and moral ambiguity lurking throughout their quest. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Captain Blood, who is grappling with his circumstances in San Francisco's wharves, eager for a new opportunity. Billy Harman approaches him with an offer for a ship job that includes a sizable potential payout, igniting the Captain's interest despite suspicions about its nature. As they meet their employer, Mr. Shiner, and learn more about their assignment involving cable work, Blood's instincts warn him of impending trouble, which foreshadows deeper entanglements. The narrative hints at tension between lawful sailing and the thrill of piracy, elevating Blood's character arc as he navigates a world straddling legality and treachery, underscoring the complexities of survival in a morally ambiguous environment.
The Cottage on the Fells
"The Cottage on the Fells" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Richard Hellier, a briefless barrister, and his infatuation with Mademoiselle Cécile Lefarge, a mysterious and enchanting woman burdened by her father's infamous past. The narrative explores themes of love, social status, and the impact of one's past choices. The opening of the novel introduces us to Hellier, who is recovering from influenza in Boulogne. His interactions with Comyns, a wealthy acquaintance, set the stage for his feelings of inadequacy and longing. Hellier deeply admires Cécile, whom he met at the Hotel des Bains, but he is aware of a significant barrier between them, tied to her father's tragic history as a purported murderer. This layering of romantic tension against a backdrop of societal judgment and personal demons establishes a poignant tone that draws readers into both Hellier's internal struggles and the unfolding tragedy surrounding Cécile. As he navigates his emotions and the implications of their connection, the stage is set for a deeply compelling tale.
Maru: A Dream of the Sea
"Maru: A Dream of the Sea" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Islands, the book explores themes of isolation, love, and the clash between traditional and external influences. The narrative follows the life of Maru, a young Polynesian man, navigating the trials of his community on the small island of Fukariva, which faces existential challenges after an epidemic reduces the population. The story begins with Maru inheriting the kingship after a devastating smallpox outbreak claims his tribe, leaving him isolated and disconnected from his people. He finds himself torn between grief and the brutal survival instincts of the remaining islanders. When he is taken away from his home aboard a blackbirding brig, a cyclone leaves him shipwrecked and drifting at sea until he is rescued by Talia, a girl from an uncharted island. As they build their new life together, Maru's feelings for Talia grow, transcending mere friendship to love. However, tragedy strikes when Talia drowns, leaving Maru to grapple with his cultural taboos surrounding death and the lingering ghost of his departed love. Ultimately, the story reflects Maru's inner turmoil as he seeks solace and resolution amidst the vastness of the ocean.
The Crimson Azaleas: A Novel
"The Crimson Azaleas: A Novel" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a fictional work set in the early 20th century. The narrative begins with two Scotchmen, Dick Leslie and Tod M’Gourley, journeying along the picturesque Nikko Road in Japan, where they encounter beautiful landscapes and engaging conversations. As they travel, they are drawn into a series of enchanting and sometimes bizarre events, including the appearance of a mysterious blind man and a lost little Japanese girl named Campanula. The opening of the novel introduces the unlikely friendship between Leslie and M’Gourley as they navigate both the physical challenges of their journey and the complexities of their pasts. Through witty dialogue, reflections on life, and their interactions with the vivid Japanese scenery and culture, Stacpoole weaves an exploration of loneliness, companionship, and the quest for belonging. With the arrival of Campanula, the story hints at deeper themes of connection and the unfolding consequences of their journey in this beautifully rendered world.
The Man Who Lost Himself
"The Man Who Lost Himself" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Victor Jones, a young man feeling the weight of failure after losing a critical business contract in London. As he grapples with his financial woes and sense of identity, he encounters a mysterious stranger named Rochester, who bears an unsettling resemblance to him. Their meeting sets the stage for a series of misunderstandings and adventures that challenge both characters' perceptions of self. At the start of the narrative, Victor Jones is depicted as a defeated figure in the Savoy Hotel, reflecting on his life choices and recent failures. After a chance encounter with a stranger who looks exactly like him, Jones is drawn into a whirlwind of events that leave him questioning his own identity. The opening chapters explore his initial confusion, the impact of alcohol on his decision-making, and the consequences of becoming an unwitting part of Rochester's life following a fateful night. This intriguing premise hints at elements of mistaken identity and the psychological complexities of self-perception, establishing a narrative that promises both tension and humor as the plot unfolds.
Kadjaman
"Kadjaman" by H. De Vere Stacpoole is a narrative fiction written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of nature, humanity, and the relationship between humans and animals, set against the backdrop of the intriguing landscapes of Borneo. Through its adventurous storyline, the novel reflects on the primal instincts that connect and divide different species. The story follows the events surrounding a boy named Ting and his strange bond with an orangutan named Kadjaman. After a series of events leading to Kadjaman's escape from captivity, he kidnaps Ting, taking him into the jungle. The boy's father, Tuan Marop, embarks on a perilous journey back into the wilderness to rescue his son, hoping to reclaim him from the clutches of nature. As Tuan confronts the stark realities of life in the jungle, the narrative raises questions about the essence of humanity and the potential for reversion to primal instincts when influenced by the wild. The tale weaves together elements of adventure and introspection, ultimately showcasing the complexities of family ties and the animalistic traits shared by humans and their closest relatives.