Under Blanco's eye; or, Hal Maynard among the Cuban insurgents
"Under Blanco's Eye; or, Hal Maynard among the Cuban Insurgents" by Douglas Wells is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Hal Maynard, a young American who finds himself stranded in Havana during a tumultuous time as tensions rise between the United States and Spain around the Spanish-American War. The protagonist's journey unfolds against the backdrop of the Cuban insurgency, illustrating themes of bravery, nationalism, and the struggles faced by people in the midst of war. At the start of the novel, we meet Hal Maynard, who, after being left behind when the last American steamer departs from Havana, is confronted by a hostile Spanish crowd. As he grapples with his situation, we learn about the perilous atmosphere in the city as well as Hal’s sense of duty to protect two thousand dollars entrusted to him by his employer. His troubles deepen with the arrival of Senor Vasquez, a nefarious merchant who directly confronts Hal for the money. The opening chapters set a tense scene filled with danger as Hal navigates threats from both the crowd and Vasquez, leading to an eventual escape attempt. The intricacies of Hal's character and the vivid portrayals of the Cuban struggle establish a gripping narrative that invites the reader to explore themes of courage and rebellion in a revolutionary era.