Subject
Political corruption -- West (U.S.) -- Fiction Books
Best books
Francis Lynde
The Wreckers
"The Wreckers" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative is centered on Graham Norcross, a railroad construction executive who finds himself embroiled in the chaos of managing a struggling railroad line, the Pioneer Short Line. As he deals with various challenges, including a kidnapping incident and corruption, he also navigates personal interactions with intriguing characters like Mrs. Sheila Macrae and her cousin Maisie Ann. The opening of the story introduces us to Jimmie Dodds, Norcross's confidential clerk, as they embark on a train journey that quickly leads to unforeseen complications. Following delays caused by a freight-train wreck, they encounter Mrs. Sheila and Maisie Ann on the train. When both women venture off the train to retrieve a forgotten muff, a series of misadventures unfolds, leading to the discovery of a plot to kidnap Mr. Chadwick, a wealthy businessman traveling in a private car on the same train. As the plot progresses, we see wealthy and influential characters maneuvering against each other, with current treachery intertwining with Norcross's new responsibilities as the recently appointed general manager of the railroad.
Francis Lynde
The Grafters
"The Grafters" by Francis Lynde is a novel likely written during the late 19th century, exploring themes of ambition, economic hardship, and the complexities of human nature in a growing Western city. The story begins in Gaston, a once-promising town that experienced a boom thanks to its railroads but soon faces an economic collapse. Central to the narrative is David Kent, an attorney who embarks on a turbulent journey as he navigates financial ruin, social upheaval, and the intricacies of political power during this tumultuous period. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the historical backdrop of Gaston, illustrating its rapid rise and subsequent fall. The opening section lays out the origins of the town, the influential figures that shaped its destiny, and the coming financial crash that serves as a catalyst for the unfolding story. David Kent, arriving from New Hampshire to seek fortune, finds himself caught up in the ensuing chaos. Through Kent's perspective, we witness the panic that ensues as the town's residents confront their new reality, as well as his own strategic maneuvers to retain his professional and personal integrity amid the encroaching desperation. This opening not only sets the stage for the interwoven lives of its characters but also hints at deeper explorations of ethics and governance in the West.
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