Subject
Americans -- Australia -- Fiction Books
Best books
St. George Rathborne
Old Broadbrim Into the Heart of Australia or, A Strange Bargain and Its Consequences
"Old Broadbrim Into the Heart of Australia" by St. George Rathborne is a detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Old Broadbrim, a renowned Quaker detective, who is hired under mysterious circumstances to guard a wealthy man, Custer Kipp, against unseen threats, leading him into a complex web of intrigue, murder, and danger as he pursues his foe across the globe. The narrative promises suspense as it delves into the darker side of human nature and the risks entailed in uncovering hidden truths. The opening of the novel introduces us to Old Broadbrim on a fateful day in April, where he meets Custer Kipp, who reveals that he has received threats against his life and offers the detective a staggering sum to protect him for a year. Despite his reservations, Old Broadbrim accepts the peculiar commission, feeling the allure of the challenge. However, the story quickly escalates as Kipp is found murdered shortly after, thrusting Broadbrim into an unexpected investigation that intertwines with the mystery of another murder, setting the stage for an intricate plot that spans continents and involves a deadly adversary. The initial chapters establish the stakes and the complexities of safeguarding Kipp, while hinting at the larger web of deceit and vengeance to be unraveled.
Oliver Optic
Freaks of Fortune; or, Half Round the World
"Freaks of Fortune; or, Half Round the World" by Oliver Optic is a fictional novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the main character Levi Fairfield, a young man of integrity and ingenuity, as he navigates the challenges of his complex relationship with his miserly uncle, Nathan Fairfield, while embarking on adventurous voyages. The story explores themes of morality, trust, and the pursuit of happiness against a backdrop of thrilling escapades at sea. The opening of the novel introduces Levi as he recalls his childhood project of building a sawmill, setting the stage for his pursuit of mechanical mastery. As he shares this memory with Bessie Watson, a charming young woman, their dynamic hints at a budding romance. The tranquility of their banter is abruptly interrupted by the discovery of smoke billowing from Uncle Nathan's dilapidated house, which leads to a chaotic scene as they rush to extinguish the flames. After the fire is put out, Uncle Nathan reveals the shocking news of his missing gold, leading to the dire suspicion that Levi may have been involved in both the fire and the theft. This inciting incident shapes the rest of the story, driving the tension between the characters and the unfolding mystery of the stolen money.
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