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Schooners -- Fiction Books
Best books
Robert Louis Stevenson
The Ebb-Tide: A Trio And Quartette
"The Ebb-Tide: A Trio And Quartette" by Robert Louis Stevenson and Lloyd Osbourne is a novella published in 1894. Three desperate beggars in Tahiti—a failed English businessman, a disgraced American sea captain, and a dishonest Cockney—seize control of a plague-stricken ship carrying champagne, planning to steal it. Their scheme unravels when they discover the cargo is fraudulent and encounter a mysterious, violent English pearl harvester on a remote island. What follows is a dark tale of moral corruption, failed redemption, and the clash between greed and faith.
Robert Louis Stevenson
The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 19
"The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 19" by Stevenson et al. is a collection of literature likely assembled in the early 20th century. This volume includes two major works: "The Ebb-Tide," a tale exploring themes of disillusionment and moral ambiguity through the experiences of its characters, and "Weir of Hermiston," which examines familial relationships and societal expectations. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the South Pacific, populated by various characters who navigate both physical and emotional turmoil. At the start of "The Ebb-Tide," the story unfolds on a beach in Papeete, where three outcasts, Robert Herrick, an American called Brown, and a clerk known as Huish, find themselves united by their shared hardship. Each man bears the weight of their past failures and struggles with their current desolate circumstances, characterized by hunger, cold, and a sense of moral defeat. The opening pages vividly depict their plight, establishing a tone of melancholy and desperation, as they contemplate the depths of their fall from grace and their yearning for redemption or escape, leading to discussions about their pasts and dreams of a different life.
Samuel Merwin
The Merry Anne
"The Merry Anne" by Samuel Merwin is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Dick Smiley, the captain of a lumber schooner named the Merry Anne, and delves into his adventures and personal relationships, particularly with a girl named Annie. The book illustrates themes of ambition, love, and the struggles of life on the Great Lakes, against a backdrop of maritime culture. At the start of the narrative, the dedication reveals a past shared by the author and a friend, hinting at nostalgia and deep connections. The main character, Dick Smiley, is introduced as a lively and somewhat reckless captain, who is preparing to set sail amidst an approaching storm, reflecting his bold nature and determination. As he interacts with his crew and contemplates his feelings for Annie, the opening chapters highlight his struggles with authority, responsibility, and the dynamics of love. The stage is set for a gripping adventure filled with nautical challenges and emotional conflicts, signaling an engaging read for those drawn to maritime fiction and romantic plots.
Samuel Merwin
His Little World: The Story of Hunch Badeau
"His Little World: The Story of Hunch Badeau" by Samuel Merwin is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Hunch Badeau, the captain of a lumber schooner, and his interactions with a small beach community, including the characters Bruce Considine and Mamie Banks. The book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, love, and the trials of life on the water, with a focus on Hunch's personal growth and struggles. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Hunch Badeau as he takes part in a life-saving crew drill along the beach, where he encounters a group of young women, particularly one named Mamie. Badeau, described with physical attributes indicating he is a robust yet somewhat awkward man, is intrigued by Mamie as he embarks on conversations about her friend Bruce. As the narrative unfolds, we see hints of conflict and companionship between Hunch and Bruce, especially as Hunch takes up a protective role concerning Bruce's behavior, which is marked by alcoholism. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for an exploration of their friendship dynamics and set the stage for Hunch's challenges, both at sea and in personal relationships.
Harold Bindloss
Thrice Armed
"Thrice Armed" by Harold Bindloss is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Jim Wheelock, a young man who, after training in the British Navy, returns to Vancouver to support his ailing father, Tom Wheelock, and manage the family’s struggling shipping business. The narrative explores themes of responsibility, familial bonds, and the struggles against forces both natural and man-made in the rugged coastal environment. At the start of the book, Jim arrives on board the coasting schooner "Tyee", reflecting on his recent transition from dignified naval life to the hard, unrefined world of a fishing vessel. He learns that his father has fallen into disrepair both physically and financially, largely due to the predatory capitalist practices of a man named Merril, who holds a bond on the "Tyee". As Jim navigates the harsh realities of his father’s situation, the reader is introduced to his supportive friend, Prescott, and the struggles against treachery and adversity that await both men. This opening sets a poignant tone filled with challenges and responsibilities that shape their characters and the unfolding story.
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