Subject
Pittsburgh (Pa.) -- Fiction Books
Best books
Franklin Smith Farquhar
Edith and John: A Story of Pittsburgh
"Edith and John: A Story of Pittsburgh" by Franklin S. Farquhar is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the industrial city of Pittsburgh, vividly capturing the lives of its characters amidst the smoky, damp backdrop of the era. Central to the plot are John Winthrope, a young man from the countryside trying to make a living in the city, and Edith Jarney, the daughter of a wealthy businessman. Their lives intersect, suggesting a narrative that will explore themes of class disparity, romance, and personal ambition. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to the gritty urban environment of Pittsburgh on a grim November evening. John Winthrope, recently relocated to the city for work, finds himself in the midst of a chaotic and rainy atmosphere as he navigates the streets home. In a serendipitous encounter, he helps Edith, whose umbrella has broken during their hurried travels, thus initiating a conversation filled with charm and unexpected chemistry between them. As they interact, both characters are revealed: John struggling with his lowly job and living conditions, and Edith, portrayed as spirited and unpretentious despite her wealth. The opening sets a tone for a tale woven with humor, compassion, and the stark realities of life in a bustling industrial city.
Meredith Nicholson
The Lords of High Decision
"The Lords of High Decision" by Meredith Nicholson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around familial dynamics and societal expectations as it follows Wayne Craighill and his sister Fanny, who confront the implications of their father's imminent second marriage to a younger woman, Adelaide Allen. The narrative delves into themes of love, resentment, and the complexities of moving forward after loss. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a dinner at the Craighill household where tension brews as Wayne meets his sister Fanny. They suspect their father is about to announce a marriage that could disrupt their family bond, especially as they still mourn their deceased mother. As Colonel Craighill shares details about his discussions in Washington and the impending announcement, the siblings struggle between familial love and their growing discontent about the situation. This opening sets the stage for the exploration of their conflicts, ambitions, and the societal norms that enforce expectations within their circle.
Mary Roberts Rinehart
K
"K" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story is centered around the lives of its main characters, Joe Drummond and Sidney Page, as they navigate youth, love, and life's responsibilities in a close-knit neighborhood. The novel involves various dynamics of love and ambition, particularly highlighting Sidney's desire for independence against the backdrop of Joe's unrelenting affection. At the start of the novel, the narrative unfolds in a charming yet modest street, where Joe Drummond finds himself waiting for Sidney Page, a girl he adores. As they engage in conversations under the moonlight, Joe grapples with his feelings and aspirations, hoping for a future with Sidney, while she contemplates her desire to break free from the confines of her life and pursue a path of purpose as a nurse. The arrival of a new roomer, K. Le Moyne, introduces further tension and possibility into Sidney's world, as she begins to forge her own identity while at the same time feeling the weight of expectations from those around her. The opening chapters beautifully depict this delicate balance between youth, love, and the journey toward self-discovery.
R. C. FitzPatrick
The Circuit Riders
"The Circuit Riders" by R. C. FitzPatrick is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. The story unfolds in a future society where emotions can be quantified and transmitted through a technology called the deAngelis board, which monitors individuals' emotional states. The narrative likely explores the implications of such technology on human behavior, law enforcement, and society's moral compass." The story primarily focuses on the interactions of police operators who monitor the deAngelis board, interpreting emotional signals to prevent crimes. Key characters include various police officers, reporters, and an old man whose growing instability is central to the plot. As the narrative progresses, the tension builds around the old man's increasingly intense emotional readings, which indicate he may pose a threat. Eventually, law enforcement must confront him, leading to an unforeseen encounter with a young girl. The novella raises questions about the nature of emotions, the effectiveness of technology in predicting human behavior, and the complexities of moral judgments in a society where feelings are manipulated and monitored.
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