Subject
Girty, Simon, 1741-1818 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Edward Sylvester Ellis
The phantom hunter; or, love after death
"The Phantom Hunter; or, Love After Death" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in the early settlements of Kentucky and revolves around themes of justice and betrayal as it follows the wrongful punishment of Russell Trafford, who is executed for the murder of his uncle, Doctor Trafford, despite his claimed innocence. The narrative explores the intertwining lives and relationships of several characters, including the grieving Isabel Moreland, engaged to Trafford, and the nefarious Jim McCabe, who harbors ulterior motives. The opening of the novel introduces a significant event: the execution of Russell Trafford, who stands accused of murdering his uncle, Doctor Trafford, under mysterious circumstances involving a fire. The community's suspicion is fueled by circumstantial evidence, including the discovery of Trafford with an open tinder-box during the fire incident. Although the story begins with a grim and tense atmosphere as the townspeople gather for the execution, elements of love and the supernatural surface when Isabel mourns her lost love and the possibility of Trafford’s return from the grave emerges. This initial setup hints at a deeper exploration of themes like innocence, vengeance, and the hauntings of love that may lie ahead, engaging readers interested in historical romance blended with elements of suspense and potential redemption.
Emerson Bennett
Ella Barnwell: A historical romance of border life
"Ella Barnwell: A Historical Romance of Border Life" by Emerson Bennett is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of early American frontier life, particularly in Kentucky during the revolutionary period. It follows the journey of the titular character, Ella Barnwell, and introduces themes of romance, struggle, and the challenges of pioneer life in a tumultuous era. The opening of the narrative establishes a vivid sense of place and time, detailing the landscape of Kentucky and the fierce struggles of its early settlers. Ella Barnwell is introduced alongside Algernon Reynolds, a young man with a mysterious and troubled past, who has been wounded and is rescued by a noble woodsman. The first chapter sets the stage for a gripping tale of survival, courage, and the complexities of human relationships in the wild frontier, while also presenting the immediate danger posed by the indigenous people and the overarching historical struggles of the time. The reader is left with a sense of anticipation for the unfolding story that intertwines history and personal drama.
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