Subject
World War, 1914-1918 -- Veterans -- Fiction Books
Best books
F. Scott (Francis Scott) Fitzgerald
This Side of Paradise
"This Side of Paradise" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a novel published in 1920. It follows Amory Blaine, a handsome Princeton student who pursues literature and romance while searching for his destined purpose. Through failed love affairs with debutantes and flappers, wartime service, and financial setbacks, Amory confronts the emptiness of ambition corrupted by greed and social climbing. The novel captures American youth at the dawn of the Jazz Age, exploring their revolt against traditional values and their disillusionment with contemporary society.
Alice Caldwell Hegan Rice
Quin
"Quin" by Alice Caldwell Hegan Rice is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story appears to revolve around the lives of two main characters, Sergeant Quinby Graham, a war veteran adjusting to civilian life, and Eleanor Bartlett, a young woman from a prominent but oppressive family. Their interactions seem to center on themes of ambition, love, and the desire for personal freedom amidst societal expectations. At the start of the novel, we meet Quin, who is recovering from war injuries and exhibits a buoyant spirit despite his struggles. The narrative captures his eagerness to engage with life, culminating in a chance encounter with Eleanor at a dance hall, where their flirtation ignites something deeper. As Quin navigates his feelings for Eleanor, the story hints at the societal constraints she faces, particularly from her family, who seek to control her future and suppress her aspirations. This opening portion sets the stage for a tale filled with emotional complexity and character development, showcasing Quin's determination and Eleanor's yearning for independence.
Zane Grey
The Call of the Canyon
"The Call of the Canyon" by Zane Grey is a novel written in the early 20th century, capturing the essence of the American West following World War I. The story revolves around Carley Burch, a young woman from New York, who is drawn to the West by a letter from her fiancé, Glenn Kilbourne, who has returned from the war profoundly changed. The narrative explores themes of love, transformation, and the stark contrast between urban and rugged natural life through Carley's journey as she seeks to understand and reconnect with Glenn in his new world. At the start of the novel, Carley reflects on Glenn's haunting letter as she rides on a train toward Arizona, revealing her uncertainty and desire to find him. The opening details her memories of their last moments together before the war and her efforts to comprehend the deep changes Glenn has undergone. After arriving in Flagstaff and embarking on a challenging journey to reach Glenn's remote cabin, Carley grapples with the unfamiliarity of her surroundings, the harsh conditions of the West, and her inner anxieties about their relationship. As she meets Glenn, who has transformed into a rugged figure embodying the West's strength and harsh realities, the complexity of their love unfolds, hinting at the challenges that lie ahead for both as they navigate their altered lives.
P. G. (Pelham Grenville) Wodehouse
Indiscretions of Archie
"Indiscretions of Archie" by P. G. Wodehouse is a novel published in 1921. The story follows Archibald Moffam, an impoverished Englishman in New York who has married Lucille, daughter of millionaire hotel owner Daniel Brewster. Archie's well-meaning but bumbling attempts to win over his disapproving father-in-law lead to one comic disaster after another. From betting mishaps to artistic misunderstandings, each effort to prove himself only deepens the trouble he's in.
William John Locke
The Mountebank
"The Mountebank" by William John Locke is a novel written in the post-World War I era, specifically in the early 20th century. The story introduces Brigadier-General Andrew Lackaday, who reflects on his tumultuous life, particularly the events surrounding his rise from humble beginnings and his experiences in the circus as a child. The narrative unfolds through a correspondence with a friend who has agreed to compile Lackaday's life story, highlighting his struggle with identity and his efforts to reconcile his past with his present status as a military figure. The opening of the book presents a thoughtful and introspective look at Lackaday's life, marked by a peculiar combination of comedy and tragedy. As he grapples with his past as a circus performer known as "Petit Patou," we see his attempts to transition into the world of military leadership. The reader is introduced to a whimsical yet serious tone, capturing Lackaday's charming yet awkward personality alongside his memories of the Cirque Rocambeau, where he was raised and nurtured by a clown named Ben Flint. Through engaging dialogue and vivid descriptions, the narrative sets the stage for Lackaday's journey of self-discovery, as he grapples with his identity and develops connections with other characters, including Lady Auriol, who plays a significant role in shaping his reflections on life, love, and the complexities of human existence.
Coningsby Dawson
The Kingdom Round the Corner: A Novel
"The Kingdom Round the Corner: A Novel" by Coningsby Dawson is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The story follows a man named Tabs, who has just returned to civilian life after serving as a soldier in World War I. As he grapples with the changes in the world around him and his own sense of identity post-war, he is met by Terry, a young woman with whom he shares a complex past, hinted at nostalgia and unresolved feelings. The opening of the novel introduces Tabs on a blustery March morning in 1919, as he navigates his newfound freedom after five years of war. He reflects on the loss of his youth and the emotional struggles that accompany his return to a world that has moved on without him. Upon arriving in London, he finds himself searching for Terry, who greets him with affection yet seems altered, hinting at the passage of time and the complexities of their relationship. The narrative captures the tension between their shared history and the uncertainties of their current lives, setting the stage for their evolving connection amidst the backdrop of a world irrevocably changed by war.
Philip Gibbs
The Middle of the Road: A Novel
"The Middle of the Road: A Novel" by Philip Gibbs is a fiction work written in the early 20th century. The story follows Bertram Pollard, a war veteran grappling with internal turmoil following the traumatic experiences of World War I and the complexities of his marriage to Joyce. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, and societal disillusionment in a post-war society. The opening portion of the novel introduces Bertram Pollard as he anxiously awaits news of his wife's childbirth. The intense emotional strain he feels is palpable, heralding a somber atmosphere in their Kensington home. As he recalls his past with Joyce and his experiences during the war, his feelings of inadequacy and fear regarding their future become evident. The narrative sets the stage for the deep exploration of their relationship, revealing undercurrents of jealousy and societal expectations, particularly as Bertram confronts Joyce's desire for independence. A significant tragedy unfolds as they face the stillbirth of their child, marking a pivotal moment that leaves Bertram grappling with grief and unresolved emotions amidst the chaotic social landscape of the time.
Claude C. (Claude Carlos) Washburn
The Lonely Warrior
"The Lonely Warrior" by Claude C. Washburn is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Edward Carroll, his son Stacey, and their emotional conflicts during the backdrop of World War I. The book explores themes of duty, bravery, and the personal costs of war through the lens of familial relationships and societal expectations. At the start of the novel, we meet Edward Carroll, a successful businessman who engages in a poignant conversation with his son Stacey, who is determined to enlist for military service in the ongoing war. Despite Edward's fears for his son’s safety and his belief that the war may not directly involve Americans yet, Stacey argues passionately for the necessity of joining the fight. The opening segment highlights the generational clash in perceptions of duty and honor, with Stacey embodying a youthful idealism contrasted against his father's pragmatic concerns. Their dialogue reveals deep emotional undercurrents and foreshadows the personal struggles both will face as the broader conflict of the Great War looms over their lives.
Temple Bailey
The Dim Lantern
"The Dim Lantern" by Temple Bailey is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the suburban setting of Sherwood Park, focusing on the lives of the Barnes family, particularly the spirited Jane Barnes and her artistic brother, Baldwin. Themes of love, social standing, and personal aspiration resonate throughout the narrative, providing a rich backdrop against which the characters navigate their relationships and challenges. The opening of the novel introduces the mundane yet intimate world of Jane and her brother, Baldwin, as they go about breakfast preparations amid their contrasting personalities. Jane is depicted as an optimistic, lively young woman who finds beauty in everyday life, while Baldwin struggles with the weight of depression and artistic ambition. Their interactions reveal a close sibling bond, marked by light-hearted banter and family responsibilities. The plot is further layered by the intrigue surrounding Edith Towne, a beautiful and society-connected figure whose sudden desertion at her wedding sets off a chain of events that captivates both Baldwin and Jane, highlighting their desires for connection and meaning in a rapidly changing world.
Clara Louise Burnham
The Queen of Farrandale: A Novel
"The Queen of Farrandale: A Novel" by Clara Louise Burnham is a fiction book written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the lives of characters connected to a wealthy and influential woman named Susanna Frink, exploring themes of identity, ambition, and familial connections. Central to the narrative are her interactions with her great-nephew Hugh Stanwood, a disenchanted young man seeking purpose after returning from war, and John Ogden, a man with past ties to the family. The opening of the novel establishes a poignant moment in the life of Hugh Sinclair, who is portrayed as a ne'er-do-well living in a slum, grappling with feelings of disillusionment. The narrative unfolds through his meeting with John Ogden, who recalls Hugh's sister, Carol, and reveals the complex family dynamics tied to their wealthy aunt, Susanna Frink. The chapter hints at Hugh's potential transformation as Ogden proposes a plan for him to secure a better future, while the introduction of other characters, particularly Susanna Frink herself, suggests a larger exploration of themes such as wealth, duty, and the search for identity against the backdrop of a changing society.
E. V. (Edward Verrall) Lucas
Advisory Ben: A Story
"Advisory Ben: A Story" by E. V. Lucas is a fiction work written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Benita Staveley, nicknamed Ben, a practical and resilient young woman who finds herself navigating life after her father's remarriage and her own independence. The story explores themes of personal growth, service, and the dynamics of family relationships in a rapidly changing society. The opening of the story introduces Ben, a 22-year-old woman characterized by her decisive and proactive nature, in contrast to the more idle or reactive personalities around her. With her father recently remarried, Ben decides to leave home to establish herself as an independent woman, aiming to start a domestic agency called "The Beck and Call." The chapter details her ambition to provide varied services to clients, reflecting her resourcefulness and adaptability. As she discusses her plans with friends and family, we see the challenges she faces, including skepticism from her father and sisters about her unconventional career path, which sets the stage for her journey of self-discovery and the endeavors that lie ahead.
Grace Livingston Hill
The Big Blue Soldier
"The Big Blue Soldier" by Grace Livingston Hill is a novel written in the early 20th century. This charming romance explores themes of post-war heroism, relationships, and community spirit. The story primarily revolves around Miss Marilla Chadwick, who eagerly anticipates the return of her nephew, Lieutenant Richard Chadwick, from World War I, and her feelings of hope intertwined with worry. At the start of the novel, Miss Marilla is preparing a grand dinner for her nephew's return, anxiously waiting for him to arrive. As she and her friend Mary Amber discuss their hopes and fears, it becomes clear that Miss Marilla has idealized her nephew into a heroic figure. However, when he sends a telegram declining the invitation due to other commitments, Miss Marilla is heartbroken. Serendipitously, she encounters a soldier who appears to be in need, offering him dinner in place of her nephew. This act of kindness leads to an unfolding relationship that brings warmth and healing to both her and the unexpected guest, who is dealing with his own struggles from the war. As the story continues, layers of deception, personal growth, and the power of genuine connections emerge, setting the stage for unforeseen developments in their lives.
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