Author
Octave Thanet
1850-1934
Octave Thanet (1850-1934) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Octave Thanet
The lion's share
"The Lion's Share" by Octave Thanet is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens with Colonel Rupert Winter, a soldier returning home from the Philippines on furlough and meeting Cary Mercer, the brother of a young man involved in a tragic incident, setting the stage for a narrative filled with intrigue and complex family dynamics. The opening of the book introduces Colonel Winter's chance encounter with Cary Mercer, who is grappling with the aftermath of his brother's suicide. Set against a backdrop of financial turmoil and personal loss, the narrative begins to weave a tale of familial connections and hidden motives, especially regarding the older generation represented by Aunt Rebecca. As Winter becomes entangled in a web of relationships and potential dangers, particularly surrounding the enigmatic Miss Smith and the restless Archie, the groundwork is laid for a tension-filled exploration of loyalty, fear, and the pursuit of truth.
Stories of a Western Town
"Stories of a Western Town" by Octave Thanet is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The narratives take place in a small Western town and revolve around various characters and their everyday lives, exploring themes such as personal struggles, human relationships, and social dynamics. The first story introduces us to Kurt Lieders, an aging cabinetmaker dealing with existential despair and the impact of his life choices on his wife, Thekla. The opening of the book presents a poignant scene where Thekla Lieders rushes anxiously to seek help for her husband, who has attempted suicide yet again. As she arrives at the home of Mrs. Olsen, Thekla's emotional turmoil is palpable, revealing the tension in her marriage. Through vivid descriptions and dialogues, we learn about Kurt's struggles with his craft, his relationships with younger workers, and the deep sense of loss he experiences following the death of his mentor. This heartbreaking situation sets the stage for themes of mental health, companionship, and the quest for redemption that continue throughout the collection.
Stories That End Well
"Stories That End Well" by Octave Thanet is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The book features a variety of narratives focused on different characters and their experiences, often reflecting on themes such as social dynamics, personal relationships, and moral dilemmas in a nuanced, observational style. The opening of the collection introduces "An Adventure in Altruria," centering around Mrs. Katherine Biff, a cook who finds herself working for the eccentric and optimistic Miss Mercedes Van Arden, a self-proclaimed socialist. As Mrs. Biff navigates her new environment, she encounters a range of personalities, including her fellow staff members and the peculiar circumstances surrounding Miss Van Arden's attempts to implement her ideals of communal living. The story sets the stage for exploring the interactions between these characters and their divergent views on societal issues. Through Mrs. Biff's observations, readers get a glimpse into the challenges and humorous predicaments that arise in their everyday lives, creating an intriguing tableau of early 20th-century American society.
The Missionary Sheriff Being incidents in the life of a plain man who tried to do his duty
"The Missionary Sheriff" by Octave Thanet is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Sheriff Amos Wickliff, a plain and honorable man who navigates the complexities of morality and duty within his role. As he interacts with various characters, including a troubled young man named Ned Paisley, themes of compassion, redemption, and the societal challenges of the time begin to unfold. The opening of the novel introduces Sheriff Wickliff as he observes local boy soldiers during a parade, reflecting on his position of authority and influence within the community. His character is depicted as large and imposing, yet kind-hearted—particularly in his dealings with the inmates of the jail, including the swindler Ned Paisley. The sheriff discovers a photograph belonging to Paisley that sparks sympathy in him for the young man's mother. As the narrative progresses, Sheriff Wickliff aims to shield her from the truth about her son’s life of crime and the realities of the justice system. The opening establishes the sheriff’s dual role as a law enforcer and a compassionate man determined to do right by those in his care.