Subject
United States. Army -- Military life -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charles King
Under Fire
"Under Fire" by Charles King is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around Captain Wilbur Cranston, a soldier who is preparing to return to the frontier after a leave of absence at home, where he was reunited with his family and old friends. The story explores themes of military duty, family ties, and the contrast between civilized life and the harsh realities of army life on the American frontier. The opening of the book sets the scene with Captain Cranston's bittersweet departure from a bustling Western city, filled with fond memories of his time spent with his charming wife and their two energetic boys. As the narrative unfolds, Cranston's internal conflicts about his duty and his family's reactions to his departure become evident. The introduction of characters such as Mrs. Barnard, who seeks Cranston's assistance regarding her troubled son, hints at the wider social dynamics and personal struggles that will intersect with military life. The initial chapters vividly depict the disconnection between the glamorous life left behind and the challenging world awaiting him on the frontier, setting the stage for the unfolding drama as they grapple with personal and societal challenges amidst the backdrop of impending military conflict.
Charles King
A Soldier's Trial: An Episode of the Canteen Crusade
"A Soldier's Trial: An Episode of the Canteen Crusade" by Charles King is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a military setting after the Spanish-American War and centers on Colonel Ray, a seasoned officer facing disappointment in his army career and personal life. The narrative hints at themes of duty, morality, and the challenges of military life, particularly focusing on the influence of a controversial canteen that serves alcohol to soldiers—a point of contention in the community. The opening of the book introduces Colonel Ray, a soldier who has had a long and respected career, but is feeling disillusioned due to his lack of promotion and the mundane nature of his current assignments. As his family dynamics unfold, particularly with the arrival of his niece Priscilla, who has a strong missionary zeal against alcohol consumption, the stage is set for a clash of values regarding the moral responsibilities of military life. The tension surrounding the canteen and the experiences of Ray's son, Sandy, who returns from the war with emotional scars, serves as a backdrop for themes of personal struggle and societal expectations within the military community.
Charles King
Starlight Ranch, and Other Stories of Army Life on the Frontier
"Starlight Ranch and Other Stories of Army Life on the Frontier" by Charles King is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The narratives are set against the backdrop of military life on the American frontier, capturing the experiences of soldiers as they navigate both the challenges of their duties and the complexities of personal relationships. The stories explore themes of adventure, duty, and the conflicts associated with life on the frontier, often highlighting the camaraderie among soldiers and their interactions with the indigenous populations. The opening of "Starlight Ranch" introduces readers to a scouting party composed of soldiers investigating the possible whereabouts of renegade Apaches in the mountainous landscape. As tensions rise over their seemingly aimless marching and inciting concerns over their leader's decisions, the narrative shifts to hints of curiosity regarding two new ranches in the area, particularly one called Starlight Ranch. With introductions to various characters, tension builds around the potential dangers they face and foreshadows connections to a young woman named Zoe Burnham, raising questions about love and duty amid the arid vastness of the frontier. The beginning sets the stage for both military and personal conflicts that will unfold throughout the collection.
James G. (James Gerald) Dunton
A Maid and a Million Men the candid confessions of Leona Canwick, censored indiscreetly by James G. Dunton
"A Maid and a Million Men" by James G. Dunton is a novel written in the late 1920s. The story is centered around Leona Canwick, a young woman with a unique predicament: she was born a twin, but her and her brother Leon's souls were inadvertently scrambled, resulting in Leona feeling more aligned with boyish pursuits while Leon embodies the more delicate, poetic nature. As the narrative unfolds, it explores themes of identity, societal expectations, and the dynamics between the two siblings as they navigate life, love, and the impending World War. The opening of the novel introduces Leona's quirky and candid perspective on her existence, detailing her childhood, familial relationships, and the significant impact of their mother’s death. It sets the foundation for her rebellious spirit, contrasting her tomboyish nature against the artistic aspirations pushed upon her by their Aunt Elinor. As Leona grapples with the restrictions imposed on her by society and those around her, she desires adventure and independence. The narrative quickly hints at her bold decision to impersonate her brother to allow him to attend a farewell party with his beloved Vyvy, suggesting an intriguing blend of humor and serious undertones as she embarks on this daring escapade within the confines of a military camp, paving the way for further complications and character development.
Charles King
Marion's Faith.
"Marion's Faith" by Charles King is a novel written in the late 19th century. This sequel to "The Colonel's Daughter" revisits a cast of characters deeply embedded in military life, exploring themes of duty, loyalty, and the complexities of personal relationships during the tumultuous backdrop of the American frontier. The story centers around Lieutenant Ray, who reflects on his life choices and relationships, particularly with his sister and comrades, alongside the impending realities of military duty. The opening of the novel introduces two key characters, Lieutenant Ray and Major Stannard, who are riding back to the garrison after troop drill. Their conversation touches on Ray’s desire for adventure and the pressures of family expectations, hinting at his complex family dynamics, especially concerning his sister’s marriage. The scene is vividly described with the beauty of the prairie, establishing a peaceful yet tense atmosphere that contrasts with the lurking threat of conflict. As they discuss past acquaintances and the challenges of their lifestyle, the reader is drawn into their camaraderie and the broader themes of loyalty and sacrifice that will likely shape the narrative. The initial chapters set the stage for the conflicts ahead, both on the battlefield and within their personal lives.
Charles King
A Trooper Galahad
"A Trooper Galahad" by Charles King is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story takes place in the post-Civil War military context, primarily focusing on the experiences of its main character, Captain Edgar Lawrence, who faces a tumultuous turn of fate as he is unjustly discharged from the army. The narrative intricately explores themes of honor, despair, and the stark realities of military life while introducing a cast of characters who are equally affected by the changing dynamics of the army and their own personal struggles. The opening of the novel introduces Colonel Frazier and Major Brooks, who are reflecting on the challenges of army life in Texas and the plight of Captain Lawrence, who has become a casualty of the military's reorganization. Lawrence's life has unraveled due to a series of unfortunate events, including his wrongful court-martial and his wife’s subsequent death. As the colonel and major discuss the impact of Lawrence's troubles on his family, we learn about the deep camaraderie and loyalty among the soldiers, which is contrasted with the bureaucratic indifference of the military establishment. Soon, Lawrence's journey to Washington to seek redress brings him face to face with hope and despair, setting the stage for the unfolding drama.
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