The Brute By: Frederic Arnold Kummer (1873-1943)
Frederic Arnold Kummer's novel, The Brute, presents a captivating tale that explores the complexities of human nature and the contrasting forces of good and evil. Set against the backdrop of the idyllic English countryside, Kummer skillfully weaves together a story of suspense, love, and redemption. The protagonist, John Boulger, is a man of humble origins who finds himself thrust into a world of unexpected fortune when he inherits a sizable estate. However, what appears to be a stroke of luck soon reveals its true colors, as John uncovers a dark secret that shrouds his newfound wealth. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and violence. Kummer's vivid descriptions immerse readers in the atmospheric beauty of the English landscape, providing a stark contrast to the sinister events that unfold. The author's attention to detail effortlessly transports the audience, making them feel as though they are witnessing the plot firsthand. The character development in The Brute is particularly noteworthy. John Boulger's transformation from an ordinary, unremarkable man to a person of courage and integrity is captivating. The subtle changes in his personality are skillfully conveyed, allowing readers to empathize with his struggles and triumphs. Moreover, the supporting cast of characters enriches the narrative, each contributing their own unique voice and motivations. From the enigmatic Mrs. Leigh to the menacing antagonist, Kummer ensures that no character is one-dimensional, giving the story depth and complexity. One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of morality. Kummer presents the reader with thought-provoking questions about the choices we make and the consequences they entail. Through John Boulger's journey, the author challenges the notion of inherent goodness and showcases the potential for redemption, even in the face of darkness. The pacing of The Brute is masterfully executed, striking a balance between moments of breathless action and quiet introspection. The suspense is maintained throughout the narrative, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the twists and turns of the plot. However, while the book is undeniably gripping, there are instances where the dialogue feels slightly contrived or predictable. Although this is a minor flaw, it detracts slightly from the overall immersion in the story. In conclusion, The Brute by Frederic Arnold Kummer is a compelling tale that seamlessly combines elements of mystery, romance, and psychological intrigue. With its picturesque setting, well-developed characters, and a morally complex narrative, the book is sure to captivate readers from start to finish. Despite a few minor shortcomings, this thought-provoking novel remains an enthralling read that will linger in the reader's mind long after the final page has been turned. First Page: THE BRUTE by FREDERIC ARNOLD KUMMER Author of "The Green God" Illustrations by Frank Snapp New York Grosset & Dunlap Publishers Copyright, 1912, by W. J. Watt & Company Published, April [Illustration: "IT'S A LIE," HE GASPED HOARSELY, THEN SANK BACK IN HORROR] THE BRUTE CHAPTER I Every evening, almost, Donald Rogers and his wife Edith sat in a plain little living room in their apartment in Harlem, and worked until ten or eleven o'clock. By that time they were both ready to go to bed. It was not very exciting. Edith darned stockings or sewed; Donald toiled at his desk, writing letters going over reports. Sometimes, very rarely, they went to the theater. They had done the same thing for nearly eight years, and to Edith, at least, it seemed a very long time. The room in which they sat reflected in its furnishings much of the life these two led. It seemed to suggest, in every line, an unceasing conflict between poverty and ambition not, indeed, the poverty of the really poor, of those in actual want, but the poverty of the well born, of those whose desires are forever infinitely beyond their means. This was evidenced by many curious contrasts. The furniture, for instance, was for the most part of that cheap and gloomy variety known as mission oak, yet the designs were good, as though its purchasers had striven toward some ideal which they had not the means to realize... Continue reading book >>

The Brute By: Frederic Arnold Kummer (1873-1943)

Frederic Arnold Kummer's novel, The Brute, presents a captivating tale that explores the complexities of human nature and the contrasting forces of good and evil. Set against the backdrop of the idyllic English countryside, Kummer skillfully weaves together a story of suspense, love, and redemption.

The protagonist, John Boulger, is a man of humble origins who finds himself thrust into a world of unexpected fortune when he inherits a sizable estate. However, what appears to be a stroke of luck soon reveals its true colors, as John uncovers a dark secret that shrouds his newfound wealth. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and violence.

Kummer's vivid descriptions immerse readers in the atmospheric beauty of the English landscape, providing a stark contrast to the sinister events that unfold. The author's attention to detail effortlessly transports the audience, making them feel as though they are witnessing the plot firsthand.

The character development in The Brute is particularly noteworthy. John Boulger's transformation from an ordinary, unremarkable man to a person of courage and integrity is captivating. The subtle changes in his personality are skillfully conveyed, allowing readers to empathize with his struggles and triumphs.

Moreover, the supporting cast of characters enriches the narrative, each contributing their own unique voice and motivations. From the enigmatic Mrs. Leigh to the menacing antagonist, Kummer ensures that no character is one-dimensional, giving the story depth and complexity.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of morality. Kummer presents the reader with thought-provoking questions about the choices we make and the consequences they entail. Through John Boulger's journey, the author challenges the notion of inherent goodness and showcases the potential for redemption, even in the face of darkness.

The pacing of The Brute is masterfully executed, striking a balance between moments of breathless action and quiet introspection. The suspense is maintained throughout the narrative, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the twists and turns of the plot.

However, while the book is undeniably gripping, there are instances where the dialogue feels slightly contrived or predictable. Although this is a minor flaw, it detracts slightly from the overall immersion in the story.

In conclusion, The Brute by Frederic Arnold Kummer is a compelling tale that seamlessly combines elements of mystery, romance, and psychological intrigue. With its picturesque setting, well-developed characters, and a morally complex narrative, the book is sure to captivate readers from start to finish. Despite a few minor shortcomings, this thought-provoking novel remains an enthralling read that will linger in the reader's mind long after the final page has been turned.

First Page:

THE BRUTE

FREDERIC ARNOLD KUMMER

Author of "The Green God"

Illustrations by Frank Snapp

New York Grosset & Dunlap Publishers

Published, April

[Illustration: "IT'S A LIE," HE GASPED HOARSELY, THEN SANK BACK IN HORROR]

THE BRUTE

CHAPTER I

Every evening, almost, Donald Rogers and his wife Edith sat in a plain little living room in their apartment in Harlem, and worked until ten or eleven o'clock. By that time they were both ready to go to bed. It was not very exciting. Edith darned stockings or sewed; Donald toiled at his desk, writing letters going over reports. Sometimes, very rarely, they went to the theater. They had done the same thing for nearly eight years, and to Edith, at least, it seemed a very long time.

The room in which they sat reflected in its furnishings much of the life these two led. It seemed to suggest, in every line, an unceasing conflict between poverty and ambition not, indeed, the poverty of the really poor, of those in actual want, but the poverty of the well born, of those whose desires are forever infinitely beyond their means.

This was evidenced by many curious contrasts. The furniture, for instance, was for the most part of that cheap and gloomy variety known as mission oak, yet the designs were good, as though its purchasers had striven toward some ideal which they had not the means to realize... Continue reading book >>

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