Author
Louis Tracy
1863-1928
Louis Tracy (1863-1928) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Louis Tracy
Cynthia's Chauffeur
"Cynthia's Chauffeur" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds on Derby Day in London and introduces a delightful American girl named Cynthia Vanrenen and her English chaperon, Mrs. Devar. When their chauffeur is unable to take them on their planned journey due to a car accident, young Lord Medenham decides to step in, disguising himself as their driver. This unexpected twist sets the stage for a unique love story entwined with themes of class distinction and adventure. At the start of the novel, the scene is bustling with the excitement of Derby Day, creating a lively backdrop. Cynthia and Mrs. Devar are poised to embark on a picturesque road trip, but when their chauffeur encounters misfortune, they are introduced to Lord Medenham, who takes over the driving duties. The initial interactions between Cynthia and Medenham hint at an undeniable chemistry as they embark on their journey through the English countryside, all while evading social conventions and class expectations. The opening chapters establish a blend of romance, humor, and the potential for adventure, enticing readers to follow as the story progresses.
The Silent Barrier
"The Silent Barrier" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Charles K. Spencer, an American mining engineer who finds himself in London after a series of successful ventures. His life takes an intriguing turn when he becomes enchanted by a young woman named Helen Wynton, whom he overhears discussing her modest life and dreams about traveling to the Swiss Alps. Spencer's desire to grant Helen a grand adventure unfolds amid a backdrop of romance and social intrigue. The opening of the story introduces us to Spencer as he navigates a luxurious hotel, where he becomes captivated by Helen and her friend Millicent. Through their lively conversation, we learn about their aspirations and daily struggles, revealing Helen's work as a secretary to a scientist while pursuing her own writing ambitions. As Spencer decides to play a 'fairy godfather' role, planning to send Helen on a trip to Switzerland under the guise of a journalistic assignment, the dynamics between the characters hint at tension and potential conflict, particularly with the arrival of the mysterious Mark Bower, who shows undue interest in Helen's journey. This immersive beginning sets the stage for a tale that promises adventure, romantic entanglements, and the exploration of societal norms.
One Wonderful Night: A Romance of New York
"One Wonderful Night: A Romance of New York" by Louis Tracy is a romantic novel written in the early 20th century. The storyline follows John Delancy Curtis, a man returning to New York City after years abroad, where he unexpectedly becomes embroiled in a murder, a marriage license, and ultimately a whirlwind romance with Lady Hermione. As Curtis navigates the thrilling and dangerous urban landscape, the plot centers on themes of love, fate, and the unexpected turns of life. The opening of the novel finds Curtis arriving in New York, excited to explore the city of his childhood, yet it quickly plunges him into chaos when he unwittingly witnesses a murder involving a man in possession of a marriage license intended for a bride named Hermione. Gaining possession of this document and despite the turmoil of the murder, Curtis feels compelled to deliver the tragic news to Hermione himself. His decision leads him to her apartment, where he learns that she had intended to marry Jean de Courtois, the deceased man. As they meet, it becomes clear that Hermione is desperate to escape an unwanted marriage arranged by her father, and in a bold move driven by circumstance, Curtis offers to marry her instead, setting the stage for both romance and adventure.
The Red Year: A Story of the Indian Mutiny
"The Red Year: A Story of the Indian Mutiny" by Louis Tracy is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the narrative explores the tensions and conflicts that arise between British colonial forces and Indian sepoys. The story introduces key characters such as Frank Malcolm, a British officer, and Winifred Mayne, the niece of a Commissioner, whose fates become intertwined amidst the chaos of the uprising. At the start of the novel, the discontent brewing among the sepoys is sparked by an altercation between a Brahmin sepoy and a Lascar over caste issues related to the British military's use of cartridges. As unrest escalates, Frank Malcolm is introduced, focused on his military duties while developing feelings for Winifred Mayne. The early chapters set the stage for impending violence, with the sepoy rebellion igniting as Malcolm rides through a Meerut ignited by chaos. The atmosphere is charged with drama and a sense of urgency, as the seeds of the Mutiny unfold alongside personal struggles and tensions, foreshadowing the violent conflicts to come.
The Terms of Surrender
"The Terms of Surrender" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a Colorado mining town and revolves around John Darien Power, a mining engineer who confronts both personal and professional challenges. The narrative begins with Power's return to Bison, where he learns devastating news about the woman he loves, Nancy Willard, and her marriage to another man, Hugh Marten. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Power's predicament as he engages with MacGonigal, the local storekeeper, who expresses concern for Power’s safety amidst a brewing conflict in the area. Following the news of Nancy's marriage, Power's anguish leads him to a moment of recklessness, culminating in a serious accident that fractures his leg. The subsequent chapters depict his struggles, emotional turmoil, and newfound resolve to reclaim some semblance of control over his life. Tracy’s descriptive writing paints a vivid picture of the rugged American West, while exploring themes of betrayal, resilience, and the complexities of human emotions within the context of love and ambition.
The Message
"The Message" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of yachting at Cowes, where the main character, Arthur Warden, engages in a seemingly innocent encounter with a young woman named Evelyn Dane. However, their interactions soon become intertwined with darker elements, including the appearance of the notorious Portuguese slave trader Miguel Figuero and sinister connections to West Africa. At the start of the book, Warden finds himself captivated by the beauty of Cowes and the activities surrounding its regatta week. He engages in lighthearted banter with a local tradesman, illustrating his charismatic nature. The narrative escalates when he encounters Evelyn, who seeks his help in locating a yacht. Their slight flirtation is interrupted by Warden’s unsettling recognition of Figuero, prompting a complex blend of intrigue and potential danger as the story unfolds, hinting at deeper mysteries involving the enigmatic calabash they discover that carries a message from a tumultuous past.
The Great Mogul
"The Great Mogul" by Louis Tracy is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of historical events in the late 16th century, focusing on the dire plight of Mirza Ali Beg, a Persian exile, and his family as they navigate the treacherous landscapes of Afghanistan in desperate search of a safe haven under the rule of the Great Mogul. The story intertwines themes of survival, sacrifice, and the fateful encounters that shape destinies, notably centering on the infant daughter whose future holds great significance. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Mirza Ali Beg and his wife, Mihr-ul-nisa, who are grappling with starvation as they traverse a harsh and unforgiving wilderness with their children. In a moment of desperation, they make an anguishing decision to abandon their newborn daughter in hopes that it will save the rest of the family. However, moments later, Mirza encounters a deadly snake threatening the baby and, in a dramatic turn, he rescues her. Their fortunes seem to change as they come across a caravan, leading to their eventual journey towards safety. The opening sets a poignant tone, illustrating themes of hope and despair while foreshadowing the intricate connections that will evolve throughout the story.
The King of Diamonds: A Tale of Mystery and Adventure
"The King of Diamonds: A Tale of Mystery and Adventure" by Louis Tracy is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. This story intertwines themes of mystery and adventure, focusing on a young boy named Philip Anson, who finds himself in dire circumstances. As he navigates the challenges of poverty and the loss of his mother, he stumbles upon extraordinary circumstances surrounding a fallen meteor which contains diamonds of astronomical value, setting off a chain of events that will test his character and resilience. At the start of the novel, Philip Anson is a vulnerable yet determined fifteen-year-old boy dealing with the imminent death of his paralyzed mother. He confronts the harsh realities of life in London's East End, struggling for their survival after being cast into poverty. The narrative immediately plunges into an emotional depth as Philip's resolve to support his mother is challenged. After a violent thunderstorm, Philip discovers a meteor that has crashed in his backyard, containing diamonds. This discovery shifts his prospects dramatically, leading to a compelling narrative filled with unexpected twists involving the pursuit of wealth, the nature of trust, and the painful mysteries of his family's past.
The Strange Case of Mortimer Fenley
"The Strange Case of Mortimer Fenley" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around John Trenholme, a young artist, who inadvertently finds himself embroiled in a murder mystery when Mortimer Fenley, a prominent banker, is shot dead outside his estate. The novel explores themes of crime and the supernatural, leaving readers to ponder the connections between apparent coincidences and the truths lurking beneath the surface. At the start of the tale, we meet Trenholme as he enjoys an idyllic morning in the village of Roxton. His day takes an unexpected turn when he witnesses a young woman swimming in a lake, only to be jolted by a gunshot that disrupts the tranquil scenery. As tensions rise, police and local authorities begin an investigation into the murder of Mortimer Fenley, with Trenholme's earlier presence in the area coming under scrutiny. Intriguingly, the dynamics of the Fenley family and their relationships are unveiled, hinting at deeper conflicts that may hold the key to the mystery. The opening sets the stage for an engaging blend of character-driven drama and suspenseful intrigue, inviting the reader to unravel the entwined fates of those involved.
The Wings of the Morning
"The Wings of the Morning" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century, likely around the turn of the century. The book revolves around a shipwreck in the tumultuous China Sea, featuring key characters such as Lady Tozer, Captain Ross, and the spirited Iris Deane, who finds herself at the heart of the unfolding drama. The narrative teases a blend of adventure, survival, and personal relationships against the backdrop of a fierce maritime storm. At the start of the novel, the readers are introduced to the luxurious steamer "Sirdar" as it prepares to navigate potentially dangerous waters, with Lady Tozer and Iris Deane aboard. The atmosphere is initially light, filled with witty exchanges between characters, but tension rises when the ship faces a formidable typhoon. During the storm, the "Sirdar" suffers catastrophic damage, leading to a harrowing wreck that throws Iris and a sailor named Robert Jenks into a perilous situation on a deserted island. The opening chapters vividly depict the chaos and terrifying uncertainty of the shipwreck, laying the foundation for themes of survival and the budding connection between Iris and Jenks as they confront the challenges of their new, isolated reality.
A Son of the Immortals
"A Son of the Immortals" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around its central character, Alec Delgrado, who unexpectedly finds himself thrust into a royal lineage and the responsibilities of kingship after a revolution in his homeland of Kosnovia. The book delves into themes of identity, ambition, and the struggles between personal desire and duty. The opening of the novel introduces Joan Vernon, a vibrant artist in Paris, as she encounters Alec, who is revealed to be a prince of a fallen dynasty. Their flirtation hints at a budding romance, which is complicated by Alec's newfound realization of his royal destiny. As the narrative unfolds, Alec learns that he has been proclaimed king after the assassination of the reigning monarch, and he must navigate his way back to Kosnovia. The stage is set for a journey filled with intrigue, reflecting on the burdens of legacy and the quest for meaningful leadership amid the chaos of political upheaval.
Number Seventeen
"Number Seventeen" by Louis Tracy is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Francis Berrold Theydon, an artist, who becomes entangled in a murder mystery after witnessing a chance encounter with a beautiful woman and her father outside a theater. Theydon’s seemingly mundane life takes a dramatic turn as he finds himself wrapped in intrigue following the discovery of a murder in his residential block, leading him to question the true identity of the mysterious visitor he heard the previous night. The opening of the novel introduces Theydon and details a series of events that unfold on a rainy night after a theater performance. As he waits for a cab, he observes a striking young woman, Evelyn, with her father but dismisses the encounter as inconsequential. However, the plot thickens when he learns that a woman named Mrs. Lester, who lived in the neighboring flat, has been murdered. Theydon, portrayed as perceptive yet impulsive, grapples with his observations of the stranger who visited Mrs. Lester, prompting tension between his thoughts and his responsibility as a witness. The opening sets a tone of suspense and curiosity, hinting at deeper connections between the characters and the impending investigation that they will all become part of.
Flower of the Gorse
"Flower of the Gorse" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in Brittany, focusing on a group of characters including three young Breton maidens—Barbe, Madeleine, and Yvonne—and two male artists, John Ingersoll and Laurence Tollemache, as they embark on a pilgrimage to a local sanctuary dedicated to Sainte Barbe. The narrative introduces elements of superstitious beliefs surrounding the pilgrims, hinting at the intertwining themes of romance, faith, and youthful adventure. The opening of the novel paints a vivid picture of the landscape and the characters as they make their way up a rocky path toward the chapel. Mère Pitou, a robust and humorous matron, enthusiastically shares stories of good fortune associated with the tolling of a bell. As the girls pause to pray at the shrine, their aspirations and concerns surface, reflecting their individual personalities. Meanwhile, the artists engage in banter and playful exchanges, demonstrating their contrasting views on life and art. The youthful energy of Barbe, the practicality of Madeleine, and the wisdom of Yvonne set a lively tone for the story, hinting at the adventures and challenges that lie ahead in their lives and the larger connections that will develop among the characters.
His Unknown Wife
"His Unknown Wife" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Philip Alexander Maseden, a man facing execution in a South American prison, who is suddenly presented with a bizarre opportunity to marry an unknown woman before his imminent death. The narrative promises themes of romance, intrigue, and adventure as Maseden navigates a precarious situation, contemplating the motives of his mysterious bride and the escalating chaos in the political landscape around him. At the start of the story, we meet Maseden, a prisoner slated for execution, who is visited by a financier, Steinbaum. In a twist of fate, Steinbaum reveals that a lady wishes to marry him, leading to a hasty and unconventional wedding ceremony just minutes before his sentence is to be carried out. Maseden, characterized by his defiance and humor, surprisingly agrees to the marriage despite not knowing the woman, intrigued by her motives and the absurdity of the situation. He learns she is American, veiled, and awaiting him in the hall, igniting a mix of curiosity and urgency as he prepares for the strange union with the backdrop of an imminent firing squad.
The Revellers
"The Revellers" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. It explores the lives of villagers in a North Yorkshire hamlet, intertwining themes of social class, the collision of rural and urban cultures, and the innocent adventures of youth, primarily through the character of Martin Court Bolland. The storyline revolves around the relationships and interactions between Martin, a farmer's son, and a new arrival to the village, Angèle, the daughter of a baroness. At the start of "The Revellers," we are introduced to Martin, a fourteen-year-old boy grappling with the rigid expectations of his farmer father, John Bolland, who imposes strict religious teachings on him. Amidst this setting, Martin encounters Angèle Saumarez, a precocious girl from a wealthy background who disrupts the monotony of village life with her vivaciousness and cosmopolitan flair. Their interactions highlight the cultural differences between the village's simplicity and the complexities of Angèle's privileged life, setting the stage for both adventure and conflict as the Elmsdale Feast approaches. Martin's yearning for freedom and escapism from his father’s controls becomes apparent, foreshadowing the adventures that the festival promises.
The Day of Wrath: A Story of 1914
"The Day of Wrath: A Story of 1914" by Louis Tracy is a historical fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds at the onset of World War I, focusing on Captain Arthur Dalroy, who finds himself entangled in a desperate situation as he attempts to help a young Englishwoman, Irene Beresford, flee from Germany to Belgium amidst the chaos of war. Their journey highlights the treacherous conditions faced by those caught in the crossfire of a war that would soon engulf Europe. The beginning of the story introduces readers to the tumultuous atmosphere in Berlin as war looms, setting the stage for a gripping tale of courage and resilience. Arthur Dalroy, a British officer, inadvertently becomes embroiled in this chaos when he encounters Irene at a train station, desperate to escape the advancing war. Despite recognizing the danger in aiding her, Dalroy decides to assist, drawing on quick-thinking and resourcefulness. Their perilous journey takes them through hostile territory as they evade German soldiers, ultimately leading to their dramatic confrontation with the aftermath of violence in Belgium. The narrative effectively captures the tension and moral dilemmas faced by individuals during wartime, while showcasing the human spirit's enduring hope for freedom and safety.
A Mysterious Disappearance
"A Mysterious Disappearance" by Gordon Holmes is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the sudden disappearance of Lady Alice, Lady Dyke, a prominent figure in society, as she embarks on a seemingly routine visit to her sister in Richmond. This mysterious event incites deep concern from her husband, Sir Charles Dyke, and sets the stage for an intricate investigation that involves various characters, including the barrister Claude Bruce and Inspector White from Scotland Yard. At the start of this gripping tale, readers are introduced to Lady Dyke, who is portrayed as a strong-willed woman determined to face the world despite the gloomy London fog. Shortly after leaving her home, she encounters Mr. Claude Bruce, who helps her board a train, unaware that this would be the last time she is seen alive. As the narrative unfolds, her husband discovers her absence at dinner, leading to an alarming investigation that delves into her last known movements, the people around her, and the ominous events that escalate as both the family and the police seek to uncover the truth about her mysterious disappearance. The story promises intrigue and suspense, driven by layered characters and a prominent social backdrop.
The Bartlett Mystery
"The Bartlett Mystery" by Louis Tracy is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story kicks off with a gathering at a New York City club, leading to a scandalous incident that includes love, crime, and deceit centered around Winifred Bartlett and her lover Rex Carshaw. The narrative sets the stage for a tale filled with intrigue, involving a wealthy senator, a daring crime, and the mysterious connections between the characters that could unravel their lives. The opening of the book introduces us to a festive club event hosted by millionaire William Pierpont Van Hofen, where intrigue begins to unfurl. It outlines the interactions between guests, notably the senator and Mrs. Ronald Tower, as well as the mysterious woman Rachel who brings urgency to their discussion. Meanwhile, Detective Clancy observes these social maneuvers, inadvertently becoming a key player. As tensions rise, the atmosphere escalates into chaos when Ronald Tower is tragically dragged into the river amidst what is suggested as a deliberate act involving mistaken identities, setting off a chain of events that intertwine the lives of Winifred, Rex, and the men from the yacht. The opening chapters deftly weave character backgrounds with plot elements, leaving readers eager to unravel "The Yacht Mystery" at the heart of the narrative.
The Pillar of Light
"The Pillar of Light" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is centered around the Gulf Rock lighthouse, focusing on its keeper, Stephen Brand, and his companions as they navigate the challenges of life at sea, including a dramatic rescue that intertwines their fates with an abandoned baby. The book explores themes of duty, adventure, and the complexity of human relationships, promising both suspense and emotional depth as the characters confront the mysteries of the ocean and their own pasts. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the solitary yet vital life of the lighthouse keeper, Stephen Brand, watching over the treacherous waters and responding to the foggy night. The atmosphere is heavy with suspense as Brand spots a drifting lifeboat, leading to the discovery of a baby hidden beneath a sail, representing both a miracle and a mystery. As Brand grapples with the potential tragedy surrounding the lifeboat, he is drawn into a life-altering event that forces him to confront his own past. The chapters unfold amidst vivid descriptions of the sea, revealing not only the dangers of the environment but also the characters' connections to one another as they face impending storms, both literal and metaphorical.
The Wheel O' Fortune
"The Wheel O' Fortune" by Louis Tracy is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around Richard "Dick" Royson, a young man grappling with unemployment and discontent in London, who unexpectedly finds himself entangled in a series of dramatic events following a chance encounter with a young lady in distress and her companion, Baron von Kerber. At the start of the novel, we find Royson frustrated and disillusioned by the sight of a protest march of unemployed workers that reflects his own precarious situation. After witnessing a chaotic incident involving a runaway carriage and effectively intervening to save a woman named Miss Fenshawe, he is introduced to Baron von Kerber, who offers him a mysterious job aboard a yacht named the "Aphrodite." As Royson grapples with his shifting fortunes and engages in different social spheres, he unwittingly steps into a narrative filled with adventure, intrigue, and an underlying promise of danger connected to the yacht's true purpose. The opening of the book sets the stage for what appears to be a thrilling ride through themes of destiny, identity, and the search for purpose.
The Postmaster's Daughter
"The Postmaster's Daughter" by Louis Tracy is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with the discovery of a drowned woman, Adelaide Melhuish, whose body is found in the river bordering the estate of John Menzies Grant, a writer and former army officer. The opening establishes a tense atmosphere, hinting at complex relationships, as secrets from the past intertwine with the present, suggesting themes of love, betrayal, and murder. The opening of the book introduces John Menzies Grant as he enjoys a serene morning in his garden, oblivious to the troubling events that will soon unfold. After discovering the body of the drowned woman, he is drawn into a web of suspicion when the police arrive. The narrative hints at his previous connection with the deceased, raising questions about his past relationship with Adelaide and the circumstances leading to her tragic death. Additionally, the presence of Doris Martin, the postmaster's daughter, adds another layer of tension and potential scandal as her involvement with Grant may complicate matters further. The chapter sets the stage for a complex investigation that intertwines personal histories with the broader implications of a crime that disrupts the peace of a small village.
The Stowaway Girl
"The Stowaway Girl" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story primarily revolves around Iris Yorke, who defies her domineering uncle and societal expectations by stowing away on the ship Andromeda, seeking adventure and escape from an unwanted marriage to Mr. Bulmer, a man she despises. The plot unfolds with Iris navigating the complexities of ship life, her relationship with the crew, and the dangers that lurk both at sea and within the ship's command. At the start of the book, Iris Yorke's relationship with her uncle David Verity is introduced during a tense lunch where he pressures her to marry Bulmer for financial reasons, unveiling his dire circumstances as a ship owner. Distraught by this proposal and feeling trapped, Iris confides in herself about her thoughts on poverty versus marriage to a "horrid old man." After deciding to take control of her fate, she secretly boards the Andromeda, leading to unexpected encounters and challenges as she attempts to balance her independence with the need for protection on her perilous voyage. The beginning sets a foundation for both her character development and the broader themes of love, courage, and self-determination amidst evolving tensions and sea adventures.
The Stowmarket Mystery; Or, A Legacy of Hate
"The Stowmarket Mystery; Or, A Legacy of Hate" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the perplexing murder of Sir Alan Hume-Frazer and the subsequent accusations against his cousin, David Hume-Frazer. Central to the narrative is Reginald Brett, a barrister-detective known for unraveling complex cases, who is approached by David seeking assistance to clear his name and establish his innocence. At the start of the book, we are introduced to David Hume as he seeks the help of Brett after being acquitted of murder, a charge stemming from his cousin's mysterious death, believed to be tied to a supernatural legacy within their family. In a tense conversation, it quickly becomes clear that the case is steeped in familial conflict, jealousy, and a deep sense of betrayal. The opening sets the stage for a gripping investigation as Brett begins to piece together the enigmatic circumstances surrounding the murder, while hints of deeper connections and potential supernatural elements loom over the narrative. The layers of relationship dynamics and societal expectations further complicate the pursuit of truth, leading readers into a gripping tale of suspense and intrigue.
The House 'Round the Corner
"The House 'Round the Corner" by Louis Tracy is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Robert Armathwaite, who is looking for a secluded house in a quiet Yorkshire village after moving from India. The plot begins to unfold as Armathwaite encounters the mysterious Elmdale, the house that has a past shrouded in tragedy, including a previous tenant's suicide, which adds an element of intrigue to the narrative. At the start of the novel, Robert Armathwaite arrives in the village of Nuttonby to rent a property known as Elmdale. The opening chapters depict his interactions with the local agents, who disclose the house's unsettling history involving its last occupants, the Garth family. As Armathwaite gets settled, he inadvertently becomes involved in the fate of Marguérite Garth, the daughter of the late Stephen Garth, who is rumored to be alive despite the townspeople's beliefs. Tension builds when Armathwaite encounters unexpected visitors and mysterious occurrences at the house, fueling the narrative with suspense and hinting at secrets yet to unfold.