Author
John Trevena
1870-1948
John Trevena (1870-1948) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by John Trevena
Furze the Cruel
"Furze the Cruel" by John Trevena is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. This work is set against the backdrop of Dartmoor, exploring themes of nature, folklore, and the human condition as it follows the lives of the inhabitants of the moorland. The main characters introduced early on include Peter and Mary Tavy, siblings whose rustic lifestyle embodies the spirit of the land, along with Brightly, a downcast purveyor of rabbit-skins navigating the harsh realities of his existence. At the start of the narrative, the author artistically describes the geographical and mythical significance of Dartmoor, weaving imagery around the river Tavy and life on the moors. The introduction of the Tavy family reveals their daily struggles and dynamics, particularly highlighting Mary's role in her family's livelihood with her geese. The story extends to Brightly, who endures a life of poverty and hunger while collecting rabbit-skins, setting up the premise of his challenging encounters with fate and societal neglect. Through rich detail and folklore, the opening establishes a vivid landscape where the forces of nature, both harsh and nurturing, play a crucial role in shaping the lives of the characters.
A Drake by George!
"A Drake by George!" by John Trevena is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Captain Francis Drake, a larger-than-life character who moves to the village of Highfield and establishes himself as a local authority figure. Alongside him is his wife, Mrs. Drake, their lazy nephew George, and a host of eccentric supporting characters who add both humor and chaos to their lives. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Captain Drake as he arrives in Highfield, instantly making a stir with his imposing presence and grand plans to take control of the parish. Through a series of humorous encounters, we learn about his domineering personality, his unexpected family dynamics, and his aspirations to leave a mark on the village. The narrative quickly reveals that while he seeks to impose order, his larger-than-life persona often leads to humorous misunderstandings and conflicts with the quirky residents of Highfield, setting the stage for the unfolding drama and comedy in the book.
Menotah: A Tale of the Riel Rebellion
"Menotah: A Tale of the Riel Rebellion" by Ernest G. Henham is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The tale unfolds against the backdrop of the Canadian North-West Rebellion, centering around the character Menotah, a young native woman whose story intertwines with themes of passion and cultural upheaval due to the encroachment of white settlers. The opening of the story introduces a lush and intricate forest setting where two hunters, Winton and Sinclair, engage in a tense atmosphere filled with the foreboding of war. As they discuss the possible uprising led by Louis Riel, tension mounts as Winton experiences a moment of deer fever, which brings into focus his emotional struggles. Concurrently, the story hints at the perspective of the indigenous characters, particularly the implications of the rebellion for their community. The voice of a young girl, Menotah, emerges, portraying a spirit of youthful innocence and joy that starkly contrasts with the overarching themes of conflict and sorrow that are anticipated as the narrative unfolds.
The Plowshare and the Sword: A Tale of Old Quebec
"The Plowshare and the Sword: A Tale of Old Quebec" by Ernest George Henham is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story takes place in 1637 during the early colonial days of Quebec, and it revolves around themes of empire, conflict, and the struggles between European settlers and indigenous peoples. The main character, Abbé La Salle, is depicted as a martial priest embedded in the complexities of warfare and diplomacy, showing a blend of ambition and conflict with both settlers and native tribes. The opening of the novel introduces a spring evening in Quebec where tensions are brewing as the French military presence contemplates the threat posed by the Dutch and indigenous allies. As La Salle navigates the political landscape, he encounters Onawa, a young woman of the Iroquois, setting the stage for themes of cultural interplay and conflict. The chapter highlights La Salle's ambitions for power and influence, alongside an impending conflict involving a Dutch captain, Van Vuren, and hints at underlying tensions between the French and English in the region. This establishes a rich backdrop of historical drama interwoven with personal ambition, foreshadowing broader conflicts to come.
Bonanza : $b A story of the outside
"Bonanza: A Story of the Outside" by Ernest G. Henham is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story appears to revolve around the coming-of-age of Rupert (Rupe) Petrie, a young man raised in the Canadian wilderness, who is drawn into a quest for hidden gold and the truth of his family’s past. Major themes likely include adventure, survival, identity, betrayal, and the allure of wealth. The opening of the book introduces Rupert at his isolated homestead near the Yellow Sands River, where he lives with his reserved father and interacts closely with the local Cree community, especially a spirited Indian girl named Akshelah. Following his father’s mysterious warnings and sudden death, Rupert is thrust into a mystery involving gold, a stolen map, and a sinister character named Redpath. As Rupert grapples with loss, new responsibilities, and betrayal, he begins to learn about the outside world beyond Yellow Sands, including the dangers posed by Redpath and his associate Olaffson. The narrative then shifts to Rupert’s journey into bustling frontier communities, where he forges alliances—with the loyal MacCaskill and his beloved Akshelah—while confronting violent adversaries and new social realities. The early chapters establish a tale of adventure, self-discovery, and pursuit, set against the rich backdrop of Canada’s northwestern wilderness and the fevered atmosphere of gold-hunting.
By Violence
"By Violence" by John Trevena is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative explores complex themes related to the human condition, spirituality, and the inherent violence present in both nature and society. The story unfolds primarily in the moorland setting of Dartmoor, where the protagonist, Simon Searell, grapples with existential questions about faith and the essence of true religion against the backdrop of a mystical relationship with nature. The novel follows Simon Searell as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery after leaving his role in the church. Disillusioned with the dogma of organized religion, he seeks enlightenment and connection with the divine in the solitary beauty of Dartmoor's wilderness. Throughout the story, he encounters a cast of characters, including the drunken Oliver Vorse and his wife Sibley, who symbolize the struggles of ordinary life intertwined with violence and vice. As Searell attempts to cultivate a personal understanding of spirituality, he is faced with the harsh realities of human nature. Ultimately, the birth of a child among the characters becomes a pivotal moment, representing hope amidst violence, leading to profound realizations for Searell about love, community, and the interconnectedness of all living things.