Author
Allen Upward
1863-1926
Allen Upward (1863-1926) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Allen Upward
Lord Alistair's Rebellion
"Lord Alistair's Rebellion" by Allen Upward is a novel written in the early 20th century. It presents a compelling narrative centered on Lord Alistair Stuart, a young man grappling with his failures and tumultuous relationship with the enigmatic Molly Finucane. As society watches from the sidelines, the story delves into themes of identity, morality, and the struggles against societal pressures within the backdrop of early 20th-century England. At the start of the story, London is vividly described at night, mirroring the contrasts in Alistair's life as he stands on Westminster Bridge. He contemplates his failures and the burden of his familial legacy while external tensions reflect the divide between the affluent north bank and the deprived south. The narrative introduces Alistair as a man facing public disgrace over his bankruptcy, which coincides with the success of his brother, the Duke of Trent. Alistair is emotionally intertwined with Molly Finucane, a woman of dubious reputation, whose influence complicates his journey toward self-discovery and societal redemption. Their complex romance, coupled with familial expectations, sets the stage for the unfolding consequences of Alistair's choices as he seeks to understand his place in a world steeped in moral ambiguity.
The International Spy Being the Secret History of the Russo-Japanese War
"The International Spy" by Allen Upward is a fictional narrative written in the early 20th century. This espionage tale interweaves the backdrop of the Russo-Japanese War, exploring the intense and secretive maneuvers of powerful figures who seek to manipulate the events leading to war. The story revolves around the enigmatic Monsieur V, a spy tasked with uncovering treachery, and the alluring yet dangerous Princess Y, who seems to play both sides against one another. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to the serious atmosphere surrounding the threat of war. The prologue reveals two imperial sisters, one expressing deep concerns about the emerging submarine technology that could spell disaster for their nations, and hinting at the hidden interests pushing for conflict. As the story unfolds, Monsieur V is summoned to London, where he receives instructions from Lord Bedale regarding a potential war between Russia and Japan. V's unfolding mission takes him to St. Petersburg, where he encounters the duplicitous Princess Y and forms precarious alliances, all while navigating the treacherous world of espionage rife with deceit and hidden agendas. The opening effectively sets the stage for a gripping tale of intrigue, political maneuvering, and the personal stakes involved in actions that could change the course of nations.
The club of masks
"The Club of Masks" by Allen Upward is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an intriguing murder mystery set in London's underground social scene, particularly focusing on a secretive club known as the Domino Club. Central to the narrative is Dr. Cassilis, the assistant to the esteemed poison specialist Sir Frank Tarleton. As they navigate the web of deception and danger following the death of a masked dancer, the characters grapple with their secrets and the hidden lives of those connected to the club. The opening of the book introduces Dr. Cassilis, who finds himself in a precarious position after attending a masked dance at the Domino Club, where one of the dancers has been discovered dead, allegedly poisoned. As he anxiously attempts to conceal his late-night escapades from his chief, Sir Frank Tarleton, Dr. Cassilis receives a call from Inspector Charles of Scotland Yard summoning them to investigate the peculiar death. The narrative then unfolds through the lens of Cassilis’s experiences as he races against time to uncover the truth behind the murder, which is shrouded in mystery and hints of high-stakes intrigue involving royalty and clandestine affairs at the club. As the investigation deepens, the complex dynamics among the characters become more apparent, setting the stage for an enthralling journey through a world of masks and hidden motives.
A crown of straw
"A Crown of Straw" by Allen Upward is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative explores the romantic undertones and political intrigues surrounding European royalty, particularly focusing on the enigmatic life of Maximilian, the new king of Franconia, after the downfall of his tyrannical father, Leopold IX. With themes of love, power, and rebellion intertwined, the book introduces characters such as the forester’s daughter Dorothea and her cousin Johann, who are drawn into the turbulent political landscape of their time. The opening of the book establishes a tense atmosphere as a group of men in a dimly lit room prepares a pistol, signaling the backdrop of conspiracy and assassination. A key figure, Johann, receives instructions for a mission connected to a royal named Leopold. As the intrigue unfolds, readers learn about the tumultuous relationship between the ruling family and the subjects, highlighting kingship's burdens. The scene transitions to a pastoral setting where Dorothea wonders about her mysterious visitor, the king masks his true identity, and conflicts between familial loyalty and political aspersions emerge, setting the stage for a profound exploration of love and duty amidst a brewing storm of revolution.
Athelstane Ford
"Athelstane Ford" by Allen Upward is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows the journey of a young man named Athelstane Ford, whose life takes a tumultuous turn as he seeks adventure and wealth by joining a privateer crew led by his cousin Rupert. This pursuit becomes fraught with challenges, including betrayal, rivalry, and the harsh realities of a life at sea. The opening of the story introduces Athelstane as he reflects on his life of quiet dissatisfaction in Brandon and his yearning for adventure. The narrative begins with the arrival of his cousin Rupert, who proposes a significant change in Athelstane's life: a dangerous opportunity aboard the privateer ship, the "Fair Maid". As Athelstane grapples with the decision to leave his sheltered life behind, he is drawn into a world filled with excitement, danger, and moral ambiguity. This section highlights the themes of yearning for freedom and the conflict between familial loyalty and personal ambition, setting the stage for Athelstane’s tumultuous journey ahead.
Secret History of To-day: Being Revelations of a Diplomatic Spy
"Secret History of To-day: Being Revelations of a Diplomatic Spy" by Allen Upward is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around a character known as Monsieur V----, a highly skilled secret agent with a rich background in intrigue and diplomacy. The book promises to delve into covert operations and the diplomatic undercurrents shaping major historical events, including the Boer War and the complexities of European power dynamics. The opening of the book introduces the protagonist, who describes his unique position within the international secret service and hints at his experiences working with influential figures across Europe. He emphasizes the risks involved in revealing the secrets he has come to understand, particularly regarding a specific telegram that sparked the Boer War. As he prepares to share his revelations, he sets the scene for a complex investigation involving international intrigue, deception, and the machinations of powerful governments. The reader is left with an anticipation of the historical insights and dramatic tales that will unfold as the narrative progresses.
The Slaves of Society: A Comedy in Covers
"The Slaves of Society: A Comedy in Covers" by Allen Upward is a comedic novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative delves into the intricacies of social class and personal relationships in British society, particularly focusing on the lives of the upper class. Central to the story are the marchioness and her daughter, Lady Victoria, as they navigate societal expectations and romantic entanglements, specifically involving the music-hall singer Belle Yorke and the wealthy Mr. Hammond. The opening of the story introduces a scene in the lavish drawing-room of the marchioness, where she engages in witty banter with Mr. Despencer about the burdens of social status. They discuss the suitability of potential marriage prospects for Lady Victoria, weighing a wealthy brewery heir against the dubious reputation of Belle Yorke, a rising star in the music hall. Through this dialogue, hints of hidden relationships and societal pressures arise, establishing the foundation for the comedic elements that unfold as the characters interact with each other and the societal norms they each grapple with. The introduction sets a satirical tone that explores themes of ambition, reputation, and the farcical nature of social customs.
The Queen Against Owen
"The Queen Against Owen" by Allen Upward is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the character Eleanor Margaret Owen, who stands accused of the murder of her benefactress, Ann Elizabeth Lewis. The book delves into the intricacies of circumstantial evidence as Eleanor faces a dramatic trial that highlights various legal and moral questions surrounding justice. The opening of the narrative sets the stage for a gripping legal drama, beginning with the formal indictment of Eleanor for murder. A barrister, Mr. Prescott, receives a brief for the prosecution, detailing the mysterious events leading up to the death of Miss Lewis and the emergence of potentially incriminating evidence against Eleanor. The text introduces key witnesses and elements of the case, including Eleanor's dubious alibi and the motive suggested by the disappearance of valuable jewels. As the courtroom drama unfolds, the tension between the characters is palpable, and the struggle for truth amidst a barrage of circumstantial evidence becomes central to the narrative. The early chapters establish a rich groundwork for an exploration of innocence and guilt, leaving readers eager to see how the trial will develop and what fate awaits Eleanor.