Subject
Fur trade -- Fiction Books
Best books
Agnes C. Laut
Lords of the North
"Lords of the North" by Agnes C. Laut is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. This book delves into the adventures and intricacies of life among fur traders in the Canadian wilderness during the 19th century, focusing on the rivalry between the North-West Company and the Hudson's Bay Company. With a backdrop of exploration, conflict, and survival, the story is centered around key characters like Rufus Gillespie and Eric Hamilton, who embody the spirit of the time. The opening of the novel presents us with Rufus Gillespie, a trader for the North-West Company, who reflects on past encounters with legendary figures from the fur trade while waiting for his friend Eric Hamilton in a Quebec City club. Voices of history echo in conversations about past exploits, and Gillespie’s admiration for explorers intertwines with hints of brewing tensions between rival trading factions. In a dramatic twist, when Hamilton finally arrives, he appears disheveled and distraught, having left behind a chaotic scene involving the mysterious disappearance of his wife and child in the wilderness. This alarming inciting incident sets the stage for a gripping quest tied to the challenges of loyalty, courage, and the unforgiving Canadian landscape.
Agnes C. Laut
Heralds of Empire Being the Story of One Ramsay Stanhope, Lieutenant to Pierre Radisson in the Northern Fur Trade
"Heralds of Empire" by Agnes C. Laut is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Ramsay Stanhope, a young man in the Northern fur trade who becomes associated with the adventurous and controversial figure, Pierre Radisson. The story unfolds against the backdrop of early colonial America, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and the pursuit of fortune amid the harsh realities of life on the frontier. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Ramsay Stanhope, who comes from a royalist family and is thrust into the care of his stern uncle in Puritan Boston after the death of his father. Ramsay grapples with the harsh realities of his new life as he encounters various characters, including his aloof uncle and the bullied Jack Battle. We also witness the budding relationships between Ramsay and his childhood companions, Rebecca and Hortense, while the specter of witch trials and a hunt for "king-killers" loom over them. The opening sets the stage for Ramsay's journey into the tumultuous world of fur trading and exploration alongside the enigmatic Radisson, promising a rich tale of adventure and self-discovery.
Bertrand W. Sinclair
The Land of Frozen Suns: A Novel
"The Land of Frozen Suns: A Novel" by Bertrand W. Sinclair is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The novel follows the journey of Bob Sumner, who unexpectedly inherits his father's cattle ranch after a tragic family event. As he navigates the complexities of his new life and responsibilities, he is drawn into a world of adventure that explores themes of identity, fate, and the harsh realities of the Western frontier. The opening of the novel introduces Bob Sumner, who reflects on his past and uncertain future following the death of his father, Jack Sumner. After being raised in a sheltered environment, Bob's life takes a drastic turn when he learns of his father's death and legal complications regarding the family estate. Impulsively, he decides to travel to Texas to take charge of his father's ranch, despite being inexperienced in ranching and unaware of the fierce competitions and struggles that await him. This sets in motion his tumultuous journey through the West, where he must confront not only the landscape but also the challenges of asserting himself in a tough world filled with adversity and unexpected dangers.
Arthur D. Howden (Arthur Douglas Howden) Smith
The doom trail
"The Doom Trail" by Arthur D. Howden Smith is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds against the backdrop of political intrigue and conflict in the 18th century, focusing on Harry Ormerod, a fugitive from justice and a former supporter of the exiled Stuart cause. Throughout the narrative, themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of personal identity in times of upheaval take center stage as the protagonist navigates various dangers while pursuing justice and redemption. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Harry Ormerod, who finds himself entangled in a violent altercation in London's foggy streets, narrowly escaping capture by the watch before being aided by Robert Juggins, an alderman. The prologue sets a contemplative tone, reflecting on the fate of the Iroquois League and the sweeping changes brought by English settlers. As the narrative progresses, Ormerod, now living in the household of Juggins, learns about the pressing political tensions of the time, including conspiracies against the Crown and the looming threat from a rogue trader, Andrew Murray, who aims to manipulate trade relationships for his gain. Ormerod's journey is marked by personal discovery and the reawakening of his commitment to his homeland, setting the stage for his upcoming challenges in America.
Recently surfaced classics