Subject
Georgia -- Fiction Books
Best books
Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben
The Desired Woman
"The Desired Woman" by Will N. Harben is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds in the bustling atmosphere of Atlanta, offering a glimpse into the lives of its characters primarily set within and around a local bank, where business dealings and personal relationships intertwine. The opening of the book introduces us to Jarvis Saunders and his partner, Dick Mostyn, who are embroiled in the pressures of the banking world. Mostyn appears to be suffering from the intense stress related to recent business dealings, hinting at his personal struggles. As Saunders navigates workplace dynamics and external pressures, such as an irate client with claims against Mostyn, we begin to witness the tension and challenges the characters face. Additionally, Mostyn's longing for a simpler life is foreshadowed as he contemplates a much-needed retreat to the mountains to escape the confines of his business obligations. The opening chapters set the stage for the complex interplay of ambition, social relationships, and romantic aspirations that will likely unfold throughout the novel.
Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben
Mam' Linda
"Mam' Linda" by Will N. Harben is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a small Southern town, focusing on the characters' struggles with themes of race, social class, and personal convictions. The main character, Carson Dwight, is a young lawyer attempting to navigate the complexities of local politics and societal expectations while standing up for what he believes is right regarding the treatment of African Americans, particularly in the wake of a violent incident involving a young black man named Pete. At the start of the novel, the tensions within the community are established as Carson Dwight and his friends grapple with the aftermath of the White Caps raid on the local black quarter. Through conversations among the characters, we learn about the political maneuvering in the town and the opposing pressures Carson faces from his father, the local elite, and the mountain people regarding their views on race. The introduction of Mam' Linda, Pete's mother, adds an emotional weight to the narrative, particularly her anguish over her son's mistreatment. The opening chapters set a rich stage for exploring moral dilemmas and the personal stakes involved in standing up against societal norms.
Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben
Abner Daniel: A Novel
"Abner Daniel: A Novel" by Will N. Harben is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story primarily revolves around the central character, Alfred Bishop, and his struggles with family dynamics and financial decisions that put them at risk of ruin. The interactions between the Bishops, particularly with Alfred's wife and children, set the stage for a character-driven narrative steeped in rural Southern life and the complexities of familial loyalty and ambition. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Alfred Bishop, a stubborn land speculator whose decisions create tension within his family. As he becomes increasingly obsessed with acquiring mountain land, his wife, Mrs. Bishop, and son, Alan, express their concerns about the financial wisdom of these investments. Tension simmers as family members confront Alfred about his reckless choices, culminating in a household divided over the value of material wealth versus familial responsibility. The arrival of Uncle Abner Daniel adds a layer of perspective, highlighting the generational and gender divides that complicate their situation. This sets up a rich exploration of themes such as ambition, loyalty, and the consequences of blind optimism in the face of potentially disastrous decisions.
Matt (Martha Jane) Crim
In Beaver Cove and Elsewhere
"In Beaver Cove and Elsewhere" by Miss Matt Crim is a collection of stories written in the late 19th century. The stories are set in the southern Appalachian region, focusing on the lives and social interactions of the mountaineer community in Georgia, exploring themes of love, jealousy, and the struggles of rural life. The main characters of the opening story are Ephraim Hurd, a young man wracked with jealousy and moral conflict, and Armindy Hudgins, a beautiful and flirtatious girl around whom a love triangle forms. The opening portion sets the stage for a vibrant community dance in Beaver Cove, where Ephraim Hurd grapples with his feelings for Armindy Hudgins, who appears to prefer his rival, Elisha Cole. The lively atmosphere is contrasted with Ephraim's inner turmoil, as he feels betrayed and humiliated. The dance serves as a backdrop for his emotional struggle, leading him to reluctantly betray Elisha to the authorities. This introduction establishes the complex relationships and high stakes among the characters, hinting at deeper conflicts that unfold as the narrative progresses.
Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben
Paul Rundel: A Novel
"Paul Rundel: A Novel" by Will N. Harben is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the southern mountain village of Grayson and revolves around Paul Rundel, a young boy struggling against the hardships of life shaped by his difficult family circumstances and societal challenges. The narrative explores themes of ambition, violence, and the desire for a better life, drawing attention to the protagonist’s turbulent environment. The opening of the novel introduces the daily life and struggles of the main character, Paul Rundel, and the people around him, particularly Cynthia and Silas Tye, who express concern for his well-being. As Paul encounters bullies and navigates the challenges posed by his turbulent home life, he demonstrates an intense and passionate spirit. The chapter sets the stage for his internal conflicts and the external obstacles he faces, including his father’s deteriorating health and the societal pressure from individuals like Jim Hoag. The scene is rich in characterization and establishes the world around Paul, highlighting the themes of resilience and the struggle for respect and identity in an unforgiving environment.
Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben
Ann Boyd: A Novel
"Ann Boyd: A Novel" by Will N. Harben is a literary fiction piece written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Ann Boyd, a strong-willed woman facing the scorn of her community after a past scandal and her subsequent struggles against social ostracism. It delves into themes of pride, resilience, and the desire for acceptance amidst betrayal and public humiliation. The opening of the story introduces Ann Boyd as she interacts with her neighbor, Mrs. Waycroft, reflecting on the recent events at church where she was publicly shamed by the local preacher, Brother Bazemore. Ann's anger and frustration are palpable as she grapples with her outcast status in the community following an incident from her past that continues to haunt her. We learn about her bitter history with Chester, a former admirer, and her subsequent life challenges, including her loneliness and economic independence. Ann is resolute in her disdain for the hypocrisy around her, showcasing her fierce spirit and determination to assert her rights and reclaim her dignity despite years of hardship and judgment from those she once considered friends.
Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben
Pole Baker: A Novel
"Pole Baker: A Novel" by Will N. Harben is a fictional work likely written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a rural Southern setting, introducing readers to the life of Captain Duncan, a planter returning home, and Pole Baker, a rugged and daring figure with a tumultuous past as a moonshiner. It explores themes of community, personal conflict, and the complexities of human relationships. The opening of the novel establishes the setting in the town of Darley as Captain Duncan arrives and prepares to return to his plantation. He is greeted by various townsfolk, including the local hotel clerk and merchant, who share stories illustrating Pole's character. We learn that Pole Baker is known for his intimidating presence and a duel of wits with Captain Duncan, where Duncan admires Baker's bravery but is aware of his flaws, particularly related to alcohol. The narrative hints at tensions present within the community, foreshadowing future conflicts tied to Baker's reputation and the relationships that will develop among the characters. The stage is set for a rich exploration of moral choices and interwoven destinies against a backdrop of rural life.
Walter White
The fire in the flint
"The Fire in the Flint" by Walter White is a novel published in 1924. It follows Dr. Kenneth Harper, an African American physician and World War I veteran, who returns to his Georgia hometown to open a medical practice. Initially reluctant to engage with racial tensions, Harper is eventually forced to confront the Ku Klux Klan after experiencing violent racism from white residents. Written during the Harlem Renaissance, the novel powerfully illuminates racial oppression in early 20th-century America.
Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben
The Redemption of Kenneth Galt
"The Redemption of Kenneth Galt" by Will N. Harben is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the lives of several characters in the town of Stafford, particularly focusing on Dr. Wynn Dearing, Dora Barry, and Fred Walton, as they navigate complex relationships and personal struggles. Themes of morality, love, and redemption are likely to play pivotal roles in the unfolding story. The opening of the novel introduces us to Dr. Dearing, who observes the local congregation on a tranquil Sunday morning while displaying concern for his neighbor, Dora Barry, who appears troubled. As Dearing interacts with Dora, it becomes evident that she is dealing with deeper issues related to her mother's illness and her potential relationship with Fred Walton. Concurrently, Fred's private turmoil is hinted at, suggesting a dark past tied to his reckless behavior. The gathering interactions among the characters set the stage for their intertwined destinies, foreshadowing the struggles and choices they will face as the story progresses.
L. (Lily) Dougall
The Summit House Mystery; Or, The Earthly Purgatory
"The Summit House Mystery; Or, The Earthly Purgatory" by L. Dougall is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains in Georgia, where it unfolds the tale of Neil Durgan, the last heir of a once-wealthy family, who is grappling with the repercussions of personal loss and social decline. As Durgan starts a new chapter of his life amid the sublime wilderness, themes of identity, unfulfilled dreams, and the complexities of human relationships emerge prominently throughout the narrative. The opening of the novel introduces Neil Durgan as he traverses the village of Deer Cove, burdened by disappointment and haunted memories. He arrives at a nearby cabin owned by a former slave, Adam, who portrays the social dynamics within the region, hinting at the interaction between different social classes. The story quickly shifts focus to Durgan's arrival at the Summit House, a residence inhabited by two northern sisters, Miss Hermie and Miss Birdie, who are depicted with a sense of mystery. Bertha, Hermie's sister, appears to harbor an unsettling anxiety about Durgan's presence. This initial interaction sets a tone of intrigue and hints at underlying secrets that may define their destinies as their lives become tangled in a web of past mistakes and social expectations.
Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben
Westerfelt
"Westerfelt" by Will N. Harben is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story sets a poignant tone as it explores themes of romance, betrayal, and the complexities of human emotions. The narrative particularly focuses on the life of Sally Dawson, a girl whose heartfelt affections for John Westerfelt become tragically complicated by the arrival of societal gossip and alternative romantic interests. The opening of the novel depicts a quilting gathering among the women of the neighborhood, where gossip flourishes about John Westerfelt's apparent intentions to pursue Lizzie Lithicum rather than Sally. As the gossip unfolds, Sally is confronted with the rumor and struggles with her feelings, facing a moment of emotional turmoil and despair. The narrative unveils a deep sense of communal interaction and human connection while foreshadowing the later tragedy that shakes the lives of the characters involved. The interactions between the characters establish the social dynamics at play, particularly showcasing the harsh realities of love, jealousy, and societal expectations.
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