The Short Cut By: Jackson Gregory (1882-1943)
In "The Short Cut" by Jackson Gregory, readers are transported to the rugged terrain of the Wild West. Set in the late 1800s, the story follows the adventures of a mysterious drifter named Jim Dyke. Gregory masterfully paints a vivid picture of this era, using his impeccable storytelling skills to bring the Old West to life. From the bustling towns to the sprawling ranches, every detail immerses the reader in the sights, sounds, and smells of the time period. The author's descriptive language creates a palpable atmosphere, allowing readers to easily imagine themselves alongside the characters. The protagonist, Jim Dyke, is a fascinating and enigmatic figure. From the moment he arrives in the small town of Red Creek, his presence raises suspicion and intrigue. His past is shrouded in mystery, and as the plot progresses, snippets of his backstory are revealed, adding layers of complexity to his character. Dyke's moral compass is unconventional, making him a truly compelling anti-hero. The supporting characters, such as the strong-willed rancher's daughter, Helen Heath, and the rugged Sheriff Morrison, further enhance the narrative. The relationships that develop between the characters are captivating, and their interactions provide depth to the story. Gregory's portrayal of the dynamics between the townsfolk and the ranchers is particularly noteworthy. The divide between these two groups fuels tension, propelling the plot forward. The plot itself is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. As Jim Dyke, Helen Heath, and Sheriff Morrison get entangled in a web of secrets, greed, and revenge, the story takes unexpected directions. Gregory skillfully maintains a brisk pace, interspersing action-packed sequences with moments of reflection and introspection. This balance allows readers to catch their breath while also maintaining their interest. One aspect that sets "The Short Cut" apart is the inclusion of salient themes relevant to the time period. Gregory delves into questions of morality, justice, and honor. He challenges the readers to look beyond the surface and question the motives and actions of the characters. The underlying commentary on the impact of greed and corruption resonates even in contemporary times, making the story feel timeless. While "The Short Cut" is undeniably a captivating book, it is not without flaws. There are moments when the pacing feels slightly inconsistent, with certain sections dragging on a little too long. In addition, some characters could have been further developed, as their potential was left somewhat untapped. However, these minor qualms do not detract significantly from the overall reading experience. Overall, "The Short Cut" is a riveting Western novel that will surely enthrall fans of the genre. Jackson Gregory's lush descriptions, well-drawn characters, and enthralling plot make this a highly enjoyable read. Whether you're a longtime lover of Westerns or simply seeking an engaging adventure, this novel will transport you back in time to the golden age of the Wild West. First Page: THE SHORT CUT by JACKSON GREGORY Author of "Under Handicap," "The Outlaw" With Illustrations by Frank Tenney Johnson [Frontispiece: Surely the rider was just what the owner of the voice, half laughing, half crooning, tenderly lilting, must be.] New York Dodd, Mead and Company 1916 Copyright, 1916 by Dodd, Mead and Company, Inc. TO "MOTHER" McGLASHAN AND GENERAL C. F. McGLASHAN CONTENTS I THE TRAGEDY II THE SHADOW III SUSPICION IV THE WHITE HUNTRESS V THE HOME COMING OF RED RECKLESS VI THE PROMISE OF LITTLE SAXON VII THE GLADNESS THAT SINGS VIII "BLUFF, AND THE GAMBLER WINS!" IX THE CONTEMPT OF SLEDGE HUME X SHANDON'S GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY XI WANDA'S DISCOVERY XII THE TALES OF MR. WILLIE DART XIII SLEDGE HUME MAKES A CALL AND LAYS A WAGER XIV IN WANDA'S CAVE XV WILLIE DART PICKS A LOCK XVI AND SOLVES A FASCINATING MYSTERY XVII "WHERE'S THAT TWENTY FIVE THOUSAND?" XVIII THE TRUTH XIX SHANDON TAKES HIS STAND XX HUME PLAYS A TRUMP XXI THE SHORT CUT XXII THE FUGITIVE XXIII HELGA STRAWN PLAYS THE GAME XXIV UNDER THE SURFACE XXV RED RECKLESS ON LITTLE SAXON XXVI THE LAUGHTER OF HELGA STRAWN XXVII HUME RIDES THE ONE OPEN TRAIL XXVIII "IT IS HOME!" ILLUSTRATIONS Surely the rider was just what the owner of the voice, half laughing, half crooning, tenderly lilting, must be... Continue reading book >>

The Short Cut By: Jackson Gregory (1882-1943)

In "The Short Cut" by Jackson Gregory, readers are transported to the rugged terrain of the Wild West. Set in the late 1800s, the story follows the adventures of a mysterious drifter named Jim Dyke.

Gregory masterfully paints a vivid picture of this era, using his impeccable storytelling skills to bring the Old West to life. From the bustling towns to the sprawling ranches, every detail immerses the reader in the sights, sounds, and smells of the time period. The author's descriptive language creates a palpable atmosphere, allowing readers to easily imagine themselves alongside the characters.

The protagonist, Jim Dyke, is a fascinating and enigmatic figure. From the moment he arrives in the small town of Red Creek, his presence raises suspicion and intrigue. His past is shrouded in mystery, and as the plot progresses, snippets of his backstory are revealed, adding layers of complexity to his character. Dyke's moral compass is unconventional, making him a truly compelling anti-hero.

The supporting characters, such as the strong-willed rancher's daughter, Helen Heath, and the rugged Sheriff Morrison, further enhance the narrative. The relationships that develop between the characters are captivating, and their interactions provide depth to the story. Gregory's portrayal of the dynamics between the townsfolk and the ranchers is particularly noteworthy. The divide between these two groups fuels tension, propelling the plot forward.

The plot itself is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. As Jim Dyke, Helen Heath, and Sheriff Morrison get entangled in a web of secrets, greed, and revenge, the story takes unexpected directions. Gregory skillfully maintains a brisk pace, interspersing action-packed sequences with moments of reflection and introspection. This balance allows readers to catch their breath while also maintaining their interest.

One aspect that sets "The Short Cut" apart is the inclusion of salient themes relevant to the time period. Gregory delves into questions of morality, justice, and honor. He challenges the readers to look beyond the surface and question the motives and actions of the characters. The underlying commentary on the impact of greed and corruption resonates even in contemporary times, making the story feel timeless.

While "The Short Cut" is undeniably a captivating book, it is not without flaws. There are moments when the pacing feels slightly inconsistent, with certain sections dragging on a little too long. In addition, some characters could have been further developed, as their potential was left somewhat untapped. However, these minor qualms do not detract significantly from the overall reading experience.

Overall, "The Short Cut" is a riveting Western novel that will surely enthrall fans of the genre. Jackson Gregory's lush descriptions, well-drawn characters, and enthralling plot make this a highly enjoyable read. Whether you're a longtime lover of Westerns or simply seeking an engaging adventure, this novel will transport you back in time to the golden age of the Wild West.

First Page:

THE SHORT CUT

JACKSON GREGORY

Author of "Under Handicap," "The Outlaw"

With Illustrations by Frank Tenney Johnson

[Frontispiece: Surely the rider was just what the owner of the voice, half laughing, half crooning, tenderly lilting, must be.]

New York Dodd, Mead and Company 1916 Copyright, 1916 by Dodd, Mead and Company, Inc.

"MOTHER" McGLASHAN

AND

GENERAL C. F. McGLASHAN

CONTENTS

I THE TRAGEDY II THE SHADOW III SUSPICION IV THE WHITE HUNTRESS V THE HOME COMING OF RED RECKLESS VI THE PROMISE OF LITTLE SAXON VII THE GLADNESS THAT SINGS VIII "BLUFF, AND THE GAMBLER WINS!" IX THE CONTEMPT OF SLEDGE HUME X SHANDON'S GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY XI WANDA'S DISCOVERY XII THE TALES OF MR. WILLIE DART XIII SLEDGE HUME MAKES A CALL AND LAYS A WAGER XIV IN WANDA'S CAVE XV WILLIE DART PICKS A LOCK XVI AND SOLVES A FASCINATING MYSTERY XVII "WHERE'S THAT TWENTY FIVE THOUSAND?" XVIII THE TRUTH XIX SHANDON TAKES HIS STAND XX HUME PLAYS A TRUMP XXI THE SHORT CUT XXII THE FUGITIVE XXIII HELGA STRAWN PLAYS THE GAME XXIV UNDER THE SURFACE XXV RED RECKLESS ON LITTLE SAXON XXVI THE LAUGHTER OF HELGA STRAWN XXVII HUME RIDES THE ONE OPEN TRAIL XXVIII "IT IS HOME!"

ILLUSTRATIONS

Surely the rider was just what the owner of the voice, half laughing, half crooning, tenderly lilting, must be... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Westerns

eBook links
Wikipedia – Jackson Gregory
Wikipedia – The Short Cut

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac