Subject

Oklahoma -- Fiction Books

Best books

Zealia B. (Zealia Brown) Bishop

The curse of Yig

"The Curse of Yig" by Zealia B. Bishop and H. P. Lovecraft is a short story written in 1928 and published in 1929. It introduces Yig, a vengeful snake god who punishes those who harm serpents. When a couple settles in Oklahoma, they encounter ancient legends warning of Yig's terrible retribution. The husband's snake phobia intensifies after his wife kills rattlesnakes near their camp. Desperate rituals and mounting paranoia follow, leading to a night of horror that transforms superstition into monstrous reality.

J. Breckenridge (John Breckenridge) Ellis

Lahoma

"Lahoma" by John Breckenridge Ellis is a novel set in the late 19th century, steeped in the rugged feel of the American frontier. The story revolves around Brick Willock, a rough and hardened man living in isolation in the mountains, who finds himself intertwined with the fate of a young girl named Lahoma. The narrative is filled with tension as it begins with a dire encounter between Willock and a band of highwaymen, showcasing themes of survival, innocence, and moral complexity amid a lawless landscape. The opening of the book sets a dark and thrilling tone as Gledware, the girl's father, pleads for his daughter's life amidst a life-threatening confrontation with marauders. In a harrowing twist, Brick Willock, who was part of the criminal band, intervenes and ultimately assists Gledware in escaping with Lahoma, the sleeping child caught in the fray. Willock’s brutal world is contrasted with his unexpected compassion for Lahoma, hinting at the transformative journey ahead in both their lives. The chapter effectively builds intrigue by showcasing Willock's internal struggle and potential for redemption as he grapples with his past and contemplates a future with the innocent girl who has unwittingly become part of his life. This opening promises a tale rich with adventure and the quest for a sense of belonging in a tumultuous era.

Alice B. Emerson

Betty Gordon in the Land of Oil; Or, The Farm That Was Worth a Fortune

"Betty Gordon in the Land of Oil; Or, The Farm That Was Worth a Fortune" by Alice B. Emerson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the adventurous protagonist, Betty Gordon, who embarks on an exciting train journey to Flame City, Oklahoma, alongside her friend Bob Henderson. Their journey is filled with lively conversations, friendships, and hints of mystery regarding potential swindlers targeting unsuspecting farmowners in the oil-rich area. At the start of the novel, Betty is dining on a train and filled with anticipation about their destination in Flame City. As she and Bob engage in playful banter, Bob overhears two suspicious men discussing a scheme to cheat a vulnerable farmer out of her land in the oil region. This revelation sets the stage for their adventure, as Betty expresses a strong desire to thwart these potential con artists. While Betty is excited about exploring the land and even planting flower seeds along the way, Bob is concerned about their safety and is determined to protect Betty from any wrongdoing. This combination of youthful exuberance and budding detective work suggests that their journey will lead to both personal growth and thrilling encounters.

Recently surfaced classics