Subject
Africa, West -- Fiction Books
Best books
Henry Seton Merriman
With Edged Tools
"With Edged Tools" by Henry Seton Merriman is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. Set against a backdrop of societal commentary, romance, and personal conflict, it follows the intertwining lives of characters within an upper-class London setting, particularly focusing on Jack Meredith and Millicent Chyne as they navigate societal expectations and familial pressures. At the start of the book, two characters, Sir John Meredith and Lady Cantourne, engage in conversation at a grand ball, observing the social dynamics and their implications for the young people gathered, particularly the charming Millicent Chyne and the rugged Guy Oscard. The narrative introduces themes of generational differences in ideals, with Sir John embodying cynicism of the past while watching his son navigate the expectations of modern society. Tensions arise regarding Jack's courtship of Millicent, especially his father's disapproval, setting the stage for further exploration of ambition, romance, and the impacts of inherited values. The opening establishes a rich environment for character development and the exploration of love against the rigid structures of their world.
Edgar Wallace
The Keepers of the King's Peace
"The Keepers of the King's Peace" by Edgar Wallace is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the backdrop of British colonial rule in Africa, focusing on the exploits of Lieutenant Tibbetts, affectionately nicknamed "Bones." The narrative combines elements of adventure and wit, featuring themes related to power, relationships, and the clash between indigenous cultures and colonial forces. At the start of the book, we are introduced to a village in the Congo where a woman named M'lama gains a reputation for her healing abilities, which she uses to enact miraculous cures. Tensions arise when the chief of government spies hears of her powers and decides to investigate. Simultaneously, Lieutenant Tibbetts is depicted as a humorous yet clumsy officer who grapples with his duties and the impending arrival of his superior’s sister, Patricia. The opening sets the stage for both the magical elements associated with M'lama and the comedic adventures of Bones, hinting at the engaging interplay between supernatural occurrences and colonial bureaucracy that will unfold throughout the novel.
Edgar Wallace
Sanders of the river
"Sanders of the River" by Edgar Wallace is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the context of British colonial rule in West Central Africa, centering on Mr. Commissioner Sanders, who is tasked with overseeing a diverse array of African tribes. The narrative primarily follows Sanders as he navigates the complexities of governance, tribal politics, and the clash of cultures while dealing with various local chiefs and their customs. The opening of the book introduces Mr. Commissioner Sanders and provides a glimpse into his character and experiences in the African backlands. It showcases his straightforward approach to law and order, often marked by his decisive yet sometimes ruthless handling of local issues. The chapter conveys the challenges and misunderstandings between colonial authorities and the indigenous people, exemplified through a series of interactions between Sanders and the chiefs he encounters, such as a dispute regarding stolen goats and women. This sets the tone for the exploration of power dynamics, justice, and the cultural clashes that will evolve throughout the novel.
Harold Bindloss
For Jacinta
"For Jacinta" by Harold Bindloss is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Austin, a young English sobrecargo on a Spanish mail boat called the "Estremedura", and his interactions with the captivating Jacinta Brown, who is well-known across the Canary Islands. The novel explores themes of love, ambition, and the challenges of navigating social dynamics in a vibrant, culturally rich setting. The opening of the story introduces readers to Austin, who boards the "Estremedura" under the bustling atmosphere of the Canary Islands, fraught with its diverse cast of characters, including livestock and colorful passengers. Readers meet Jacinta Brown, the titular character, who commands attention with her charm and wit. As she engages in conversation with Austin, the two develop a dynamic that hints at deeper connections and competing desires, especially as issues surrounding Jacinta's socio-economic status and Austin's ambiguous position arise. The lively interactions aboard the ship set the stage for explorations of class, romance, and personal aspirations against the backdrop of the scenic islands.
Edgar Wallace
Joen kansa
"Joen kansa" by Edgar Wallace is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the verdant and turbulent landscapes of Africa, focusing on the fierce and mystical creature known as Msimba Msamba, or the Green Devil, who terrorizes the local villagers. The narrative explores themes of belief, power dynamics among tribes, and the intersection of native and colonial cultures, primarily through characters such as Bosambo, a local chief determined to navigate these treacherous waters. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the legend of Msimba Msamba, a fearsome figure haunting the Akasava region. The villagers’ opposing beliefs about this creature ignite tensions, leading to a split in the community. Bosambo, a minor chief, becomes embroiled in the unfolding chaos when he attempts to intervene as the villagers decide the fate of the old leader who survived a deadly encounter with the Green Devil. The opening establishes a vivid, dramatic backdrop filled with cultural conflict, mythical elements, and the personal struggles of the characters, setting the stage for a compelling tale of survival and intrigue.
Edgar Wallace
Sandi : $b Kertomuksia Joelta
"Sandi: Kertomuksia Joelta" by Edgar Wallace is a collection of stories set in early 20th-century Africa. The narrative revolves around notable characters such as Commissioner Sanders and explores themes related to colonialism, tribal dynamics, and the complexities of governance in a post-colonial landscape. The stories provide a vivid depiction of the encounters between European settlers and the indigenous populations. At the start of the work, we are introduced to Commissioner Sanders, who has been appointed to oversee a region populated by various tribes, including some with a history of cannibalism. The opening chapter "Kuninkaan kasvatus" focuses on Sanders’ experiences managing intertribal conflicts, most notably dealing with the chief of Akasava, who has kidnapped women and livestock from neighboring tribes. The chapter unfolds as Sanders navigates through a web of cultural misunderstandings and personal encounters, showcasing his sometimes ruthless approach to maintaining order and his attempts at political maneuvering. Through his character and actions, Wallace sets the tone for a complex exploration of power, identity, and the intricate ties between the colonizers and the colonized.
Edgar Wallace
The river of stars
"The River of Stars" by Edgar Wallace is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the world of colonial exploration, con artistry, and criminal intrigue, focusing on characters drawn into the mystery of a legendary African diamond mine known as the River of Stars. The story follows the fortunes of Amber, a clever and charming ex-convict, as well as Lambaire, a dubious financier, and the Sutton siblings whose family legacy is tied to the lost expedition and its tempting secret. Themes of adventure, deception, and moral ambiguity give the narrative an air of both suspense and wit. The opening of the novel lays out the origins of the central mystery: a doomed expedition into Africa in search of the fabled diamond-laden River of Stars, from which no one returns except gruesome rumors and, later, one half-mad survivor. We then meet Amber, recently released from prison, whose intelligence and debonair irreverence set him apart from both the criminal class and the upright. The story quickly introduces a web of characters—from the naïve Francis Sutton and his protective sister Cynthia to the menacing Lambaire and the eccentric Whitey—intertwined through dangerous money-making schemes and the elusive chart to the lost mine. Through tight dialogue and lively scenes in London’s underworld, the stage is set for intrigue and adventure as the legacy of the lost expedition draws this unlikely cast toward confrontation and high-stakes pursuit.
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