Bruce of the Circle A

by Harold Titus

"Bruce of the Circle A" by Harold Titus is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens in a small town in Arizona, introducing the main character, Ann Lytton, who is a stranger in the area and comes in search of her husband, Ned Lytton. The book deals with themes of human struggle, redemption, and the complexities of love against a frontier backdrop. The opening of the novel sets the scene as Ann arrives in Yavapai, feeling both intimidated and drawn to the vastness of her surroundings. As she waits for a train, she becomes aware of sudden danger and tension in the air signaled by a gunshot, which foreshadows the turmoil in her life. After a series of interactions with local townsfolk, she learns about her husband’s ruinous state due to alcohol and the concern of others about her presence in his life. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Ann's relationship with her husband, as well as her own internal struggles, and introduces the figure of Bruce Bayard, who will play a pivotal role in the unfolding drama of their lives.