Subject
Gold miners -- Fiction Books
Best books
Geraldine Bonner
Hard-Pan: A Story of Bonanza Fortunes
"Hard-Pan: A Story of Bonanza Fortunes" by Geraldine Bonner is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a declining San Francisco, teeming with remnants of past fortunes, focusing on the lives of characters tied to the city’s dramatic fluctuations in wealth. Central to the narrative are John Gault, a man caught between his intriguing encounters with Viola Reed, the daughter of a fallen bonanza king, and Letitia Mason, who harbors feelings for him. The opening of the novel sets the stage with a dinner party where characters discuss Colonel Ramsay Reed and his daughter, revealing the complexities and expectations of high society. As the conversations unfold, John Gault's growing interest in Viola becomes evident, contrasting with Letitia's contrasting feelings towards John. After dinner, John visits Viola at her home, a stark juxtaposition to the earlier lavish gathering, where the authenticity of their interactions begins to spark deeper emotions. This initial segment establishes the central themes of social status, unrequited love, and the haunting specter of past opulence that pervades their lives, propelling the reader into the intricacies of each character's motivations and societal roles.
Jackson Gregory
Beyond the Law
"Beyond the Law" by Jackson Gregory is a novel written during the early 20th century. This work captures the essence of western adventure and exploration, centering around themes of justice, vengeance, and the harsh realities of life in the untamed territories. The narrative follows the poignant story of two men as they embark on a perilous journey in search of gold, only to confront deeper existential questions and face the very laws of nature and morality beyond the reach of society. The story unfolds with protagonist Dick Farley and his partner Johnny Watson camping in the mountains as they pursue a rumored gold mine. Their camaraderie is tested when Johnny shares an eerie premonition about his own death, which ultimately comes true when he is murdered under mysterious circumstances. As Dick sets off on a determined quest for vengeance, he grapples with feelings of love and loyalty, particularly towards Virginia Dalton, Johnny's newfound love interest and the daughter of a man with a troubled past. The plot thickens as Dick discovers that Virginia's father, James Dalton, may be implicated in Johnny's death, leading to a climactic confrontation where issues of justice and morality boil to the surface. Ultimately, "Beyond the Law" not only explores the rugged individualism of the western genre but also delves into the complexities of human emotions and the consequences of one's choices.
Roy Norton
The lost charm
"The Lost Charm" by Roy Norton is a crime fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the mystery of a stagecoach robbery, exploring themes of deception, friendship, and justice. Set against the backdrop of the American West, it combines elements of adventure and detective work as the protagonist seeks to uncover the truth behind the heist and exonerate an innocent man. The narrative follows David, a quick-witted and resourceful character, as he investigates a recent stage robbery that has rocked his community. The storyline begins with David learning about the theft of a substantial amount of money belonging to the unscrupulous businessman Tom Shaughnessy. As he delves deeper, David uncovers a convoluted scheme involving betrayal, questionable alliances, and hidden identities. He discovers key evidence tying Shaughnessy to the robbery, including a distinctive watch charm. With the help of his partners, David devises a plan to confront Shaughnessy, ultimately leading to the restoration of justice for the wrongly accused and the revelation of the dark undertones of greed and manipulation. As David emerges triumphant, the themes of loyalty and cunning shine through in this engaging tale of mystery and adventure.
Philip Verrill Mighels
The Furnace of Gold
"The Furnace of Gold" by Philip Verrill Mighels is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Beth Kent, a young woman who travels from New York to the Nevada wilderness to visit her ailing half-brother, Glenville Kent. Along the way, she encounters a range of characters, including the enigmatic horseman Van, who complicates her journey with his bold and assertive nature, ultimately leading to a thrilling adventure filled with excitement and danger. At the start of the narrative, the reader is introduced to the desert landscape of Nevada and the characters making their way to Goldite. Beth, the protagonist, travels with her fiancé, Searle Bostwick, and her maid, Elsa, when their automobile breaks down. They encounter Van, a rugged horseman who seems to embody the wild spirit of the region. As tensions rise, a confrontation occurs between Van and Bostwick, leading to Bostwick's hasty departure and leaving Beth and Elsa in Van's charge. The opening chapters set the stage for an adventure filled with daring exploits, intrigue, and the dynamics between these characters, hinting at future challenges as they navigate both the physical and emotional landscapes of the West.
Dick Purcell
Gunnison's Bonanza
"Gunnison's Bonanza" by Dick Purcell is a science fiction narrative written during the mid-20th century. The story centers around the character Gunnison, a relentless prospector who travels to the treacherous Ghanati region of Mars in search of his ultimate fortune. Set against the backdrop of an interplanetary society that hinders individual exploration, the book delves into themes of ambition, despair, and unexpected companionship. The plot follows Gunnison as he departs to the Ghanati, a forbidding land rumored to be rich in gold. After a series of struggles and a near-fatal encounter with local wildlife, he discovers strange humanoid natives who initially frighten him but ultimately reveal a childlike innocence. As time passes, Gunnison begins to accumulate gold dust, but just as he enjoys his modest success, he is fatally injured by a bird. In death, the natives mourn him deeply and honor his memory by burying him with a treasure of exquisite gold objects, ironically fulfilling what he had sought in life but ultimately could not claim. The story serves as a poignant reflection on the nature of wealth and the human condition.
Dean L. Heffernan
The Riders of Ramapo Pass
"The Riders of Ramapo Pass" by Dean L. Heffernan is a novel featuring themes of lawlessness and the quest for justice in a rough Western setting, likely written in the early 20th century. It captures the tumultuous period when prospectors flooded into gold-rich territories, driven by greed and a desire for wealth. The narrative follows the challenges faced by the characters as they navigate the dangers of life in Ramapo, a town plagued by violence and crime amidst the rush for gold. The story revolves around Rand Cameron, a newcomer to Ramapo, who quickly finds himself embroiled in conflicts with the town's rough characters, including the notorious "Wasp" Williams. As Rand seeks to restore order and protect those he cares about, including Major Dudley's daughter, Jeanne, he becomes entwined in a series of actions that lead to the emergence of mysterious night-riders enforcing justice against the lawless elements of the town. The plot thickens with themes of bravery, sacrifice, and romance as Rand and Jeanne work together to challenge the violent status quo, culminating in an election that promises a return to order. Throughout the narrative, the backdrop of a volatile town and the struggles of its inhabitants serve to highlight the broader themes of morality, justice, and the human condition in a chaotic frontier.
Willis Brindley
The strike at Too Dry
"The Strike at Too Dry" by Willis Brindley is a novella written in the early 20th century. This light-hearted and comedic tale revolves around the experiences of young Percival Bigelow, who leaves New York City to visit his uncle Dog and his partner Ducky on a Montana ranch called Too Dry. The book explores themes of adaptation and personal transformation as Percival, initially a fragile poet, navigates the rugged western lifestyle. In the story, Dog and Ducky prepare for the arrival of Percival, who is sent to their ranch due to his poor health. Upon his arrival, however, Percival exhibits a distinct unwillingness to embrace the hardships of ranch life, prompting concern from his relatives. As time passes, through a series of humorous escapades—including a clever scheme involving a washing machine for gold panning—Percival gradually transforms from a weak, disillusioned city dweller into a more spirited individual engaged in the outdoor challenges of Montana. The story culminates in a twist when Percival's cunning reveals a certain shrewdness, as he eventually manipulates the situation to secure the funds he desires to return home, highlighting his growth and adaptability amidst the challenges he faced.
Will H. Grattan
Broadcast
"Broadcast" by Will H. Grattan is a suspenseful short story that appeared in the early 20th century, specifically in the 1920s. The narrative centers around themes of deception, survival, and unexpected loyalty in the face of crime discovery. It evokes the adventurous spirit of the American West, particularly the mining culture of the time. The story follows Joe Teagler, a prospector who has struck gold but unintentionally finds himself in a perilous situation when a notorious fugitive, “Snapper” Kirk, arrives at his remote cabin. After enjoying lunch with Teagler, Kirk reveals his criminal intentions, holding Teagler at gunpoint and demanding to know about a hidden treasure. Through clever maneuvering, Teagler manages to turn the tables, using both wits and a pre-planned strategy to escape the dire threat posed by Kirk. The tale culminates in an intense confrontation that highlights Teagler's quick thinking and the surprising bonds between past acquaintances, revealing dimensions of loyalty and redemption.
Alma Ellerbe
Especially dance hall women
"Especially Dance Hall Women" by Alma Ellerbe and Paul Ellerbe is a short story published in the late 1920s, likely during the Roaring Twenties, a time characterized by significant social change and cultural transformation in America. This narrative centers on the life of Rosie Ellen McCarthy, a dance hall woman, and Long Jim Briggs, a miner, as they navigate the complexities of love, identity, and societal expectations in a mining town. The story explores themes of redemption, class struggle, and the longing for a stable life amidst change. The plot unfolds as Long Jim rescues Rosie from a drunken debacle at the dance hall, leading them to develop a deep bond over the years. As they build a life together in relative poverty, Jim's prospects of striking it rich grow, which brings both hope and fear into Rosie's heart. She confronts the insecurities tied to Jim's newfound wealth, aware that men like him often abandon the women who supported them in their struggles as they rise in status. As Rosie grapples with her fears of being replaced by a wealthier woman, Jim reveals his intentions to marry her, showcasing the tangled emotions of love and mistrust. Ultimately, the story delves into personal growth, the need for stability, and the complex dynamics of relationships forged in adverse circumstances.
Dean Evans
Not a Creature Was Stirring
"Not a Creature Was Stirring" by Dean Evans is a science fiction short story published in the early 1950s. The narrative unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world, exploring themes of isolation and the aftermath of nuclear war, as humanity faces the consequences of its own destructive capabilities. The story delves into the life of Tom Gannett, a gold miner who emerges from his solitude to discover a desolate world following mankind's annihilation. The plot follows Tom Gannett, a hard-edged hermit-like figure, who lives in a remote gold mine in Nevada. Upon emerging, he discovers that he is the last surviving person in a world blanketed in eerie purple snow, the result of a catastrophic war. As Gannett navigates through deserted towns, he encounters the lifeless forms of fellow citizens, experiencing disbelief and confusion. His desperate search for answers leads him to the realization that the world he once knew is gone, and he is now utterly alone in a silent, haunting landscape. Despite the tragic circumstances, Gannett's character offers a raw, gritty reflection on survival and human resilience in the face of utter despair.
Philip Verrill Mighels
Bruvver Jim's Baby
"Bruvver Jim's Baby" by Philip Verrill Mighels is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young child who is unexpectedly found amidst an Indian rabbit drive in the wilderness of Nevada by a rugged miner named Jim. The narrative explores themes of compassion, family, and community as Jim takes the child, who appears to be lost and abandoned, under his wing, prominently highlighting their bond and the miner's transformation as a paternal figure. The opening of the book sets the stage during a vivid description of a rabbit hunt by the Piute tribe. Here, we are introduced to a young boy, timidly riding on a pony, who finds himself separated from the Indian tribe and subsequently falls off, left behind amid the wilderness. This sets the scene for Jim's entrance, a lanky miner who discovers the boy sitting among scattered rabbits. Despite his rough exterior, Jim's heart opens to the lost child, whom he names "Skeezucks" or "Aborigineezer." The subsequent chapters follow their developing relationship, Jim's attempts at caring for the boy, and the unforeseen challenges they face in the rugged landscape of Borealis, ultimately showcasing the creation of a makeshift family against the backdrop of a close-knit community.
B. Traven
Der Schatz der Sierra Madre
"Der Schatz der Sierra Madre" by B. Traven is an adventure novel published in 1927. In 1920s Mexico, two destitute American drifters team up with an experienced prospector named Howard to search for gold in the remote mountains. As they pursue their fortune, Howard warns them that discovering gold in quantity corrupts men's souls and awakens insatiable greed. Dobbs insists he would be content with modest wealth, but the old prospector quietly doubts him. Their expedition unfolds against a backdrop of exploitation, revolution, and legendary mines cursed by bloody histories.
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