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Distilling, Illicit -- Fiction Books

Best books

B. M. Bower

The Trail of the White Mule

"The Trail of the White Mule" by B. M. Bower is a novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the adventures of Casey Ryan, a free-spirited, impulsive man who has recently moved from the wild desert to a city environment, struggling to adapt to the restrictions of urban life. The narrative begins with a chaotic traffic encounter that highlights Casey's disregard for rules and hints at his rebellious nature, as well as establishing a tension-filled relationship with his wife, the Little Woman. The opening of the book sets the stage for Casey's character and his impulsive tendencies, showcasing his impatience with city regulations and the accompanying chaos that ensues. After a confrontation with traffic officers, Casey’s wife expresses concern over his reckless behavior, hinting at his challenges in adapting to their new city lifestyle. The story quickly shifts as he decides to leave the city behind, longing for adventure, and embarks on a prospecting trip into the desert—a backdrop filled with challenges that will test his resolve. This engaging introduction not only presents a vivid portrayal of Casey Ryan but also sets up the promise of adventure, conflict, and personal growth as he navigates through both the desert landscape and his inner turmoil.

Meredith Nicholson

The war of the Carolinas

"The War of the Carolinas" by Meredith Nicholson is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative appears to revolve around the tensions and conflicts between North Carolina and South Carolina, focusing on the lives and interactions of key characters including Thomas Ardmore, a wealthy young man on a quest for adventure, and Henry Griswold, a law professor with a keen interest in piracy and marine law. The storyline seems to blend themes of personal discovery and social interactions with the backdrop of governmental and historical events. The opening of "The War of the Carolinas" sets the stage at a railway station in Atlanta, where we meet Ardmore and Griswold engaged in a conversation about their somewhat stagnant lives and desire for adventure. Ardmore confesses he is looking for a young woman he saw on a train, hinting at a romantic motivation behind his journey. Meanwhile, newspaper reports reveal a brewing conflict between the governors of the two Carolinas, suggesting that political tensions will intersect with the personal quests of the characters. This mix of personal pursuit and historical context promises readers a rich narrative full of intrigue, humor, and the exploration of relationships against a backdrop of regional rivalry.

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