The Tempering By: Charles Neville Buck (1879-1930)
The Tempering by Charles Neville Buck is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that takes readers on a journey through the tumultuous world of business and romance during the late 19th century. Set in the backdrop of New York City, the story follows the life of Richard Garfield, a young and ambitious man determined to succeed in the cutthroat world of finance. One of the strongest aspects of this book is the author's ability to vividly describe the bustling city streets, the opulence of high society, and the gritty atmosphere of Wall Street. Buck's writing style is rich in detail, painting a realistic and immersive picture of the era. The historical accuracy is commendable, as the author seamlessly weaves real events and societal issues into the narrative. Furthermore, the character development in The Tempering is exceptional. Richard Garfield, the protagonist, undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the story. Initially driven solely by his desire for wealth and power, he is forced to confront the consequences of his actions. His journey of self-discovery and redemption is both compelling and resonant. The exploration of themes such as love, ethics, and personal growth adds depth to the plot. The romantic subplot between Richard and Clara, an independent woman working as a nurse, is heartfelt and poignant. Their relationship serves as a vehicle to examine societal expectations and the tension between personal happiness and societal roles. Though the book is engrossing, there are moments when the pacing slows down. Some readers might find the intricate financial dealings and detailed descriptions of the stock market to be overwhelming. However, the slower pace ultimately allows for a more thorough examination of the characters and their motivations. Overall, The Tempering is a captivating novel that combines historical accuracy and compelling storytelling. Charles Neville Buck delivers a nuanced exploration of ambition, love, and the consequences of one's actions. This book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those interested in the complexities of human nature. First Page: THE TEMPERING by CHARLES NEVILLE BUCK Author of "The Call of the Cumberland," "The Battle Cry," etc., etc. Frontispiece by Ralph Pallen Coleman Garden City New York Doubleday, Page & Company 1920 Copyright, 1920, by Doubleday, Page & Company All rights reserved, including that of translation into foreign languages including the Scandinavian Copyright, 1919, by The Ridgeway Company [Illustration: "' I've never seen the evening star rise up over the Kaintuck Ridges that I haven't ... thought of it as your own star. '"] THE TEMPERING CHAPTER I "Nothin' don't nuver come ter pass hyarabouts!" The boy perched disconsolately on the rotting fence threw forth his lament aloud to the laurelled silences of the mountain sides and the emptiness of space. "Every doggone day's jest identical with all ther balance save only thet hit's wuss!" He sat with his back turned on the only signs of human life within the circle of his vision; unless one called the twisting creek bed at his front, which served that pocket of the Kentucky Cumberlands as a highway, a human manifestation. There behind him a log cabin breathed smokily through its mud daubed chimney; a pioneer habitation in every crude line and characteristic. On the door hung, drying, the odorous pelt of a "varmint... Continue reading book >>

The Tempering By: Charles Neville Buck (1879-1930)

The Tempering by Charles Neville Buck is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that takes readers on a journey through the tumultuous world of business and romance during the late 19th century. Set in the backdrop of New York City, the story follows the life of Richard Garfield, a young and ambitious man determined to succeed in the cutthroat world of finance.

One of the strongest aspects of this book is the author's ability to vividly describe the bustling city streets, the opulence of high society, and the gritty atmosphere of Wall Street. Buck's writing style is rich in detail, painting a realistic and immersive picture of the era. The historical accuracy is commendable, as the author seamlessly weaves real events and societal issues into the narrative.

Furthermore, the character development in The Tempering is exceptional. Richard Garfield, the protagonist, undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the story. Initially driven solely by his desire for wealth and power, he is forced to confront the consequences of his actions. His journey of self-discovery and redemption is both compelling and resonant.

The exploration of themes such as love, ethics, and personal growth adds depth to the plot. The romantic subplot between Richard and Clara, an independent woman working as a nurse, is heartfelt and poignant. Their relationship serves as a vehicle to examine societal expectations and the tension between personal happiness and societal roles.

Though the book is engrossing, there are moments when the pacing slows down. Some readers might find the intricate financial dealings and detailed descriptions of the stock market to be overwhelming. However, the slower pace ultimately allows for a more thorough examination of the characters and their motivations.

Overall, The Tempering is a captivating novel that combines historical accuracy and compelling storytelling. Charles Neville Buck delivers a nuanced exploration of ambition, love, and the consequences of one's actions. This book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those interested in the complexities of human nature.

First Page:

THE TEMPERING

CHARLES NEVILLE BUCK

Author of "The Call of the Cumberland," "The Battle Cry," etc., etc.

Frontispiece by Ralph Pallen Coleman

Garden City New York Doubleday, Page & Company 1920

[Illustration: "' I've never seen the evening star rise up over the Kaintuck Ridges that I haven't ... thought of it as your own star. '"]

THE TEMPERING

CHAPTER I

"Nothin' don't nuver come ter pass hyarabouts!"

The boy perched disconsolately on the rotting fence threw forth his lament aloud to the laurelled silences of the mountain sides and the emptiness of space.

"Every doggone day's jest identical with all ther balance save only thet hit's wuss!"

He sat with his back turned on the only signs of human life within the circle of his vision; unless one called the twisting creek bed at his front, which served that pocket of the Kentucky Cumberlands as a highway, a human manifestation.

There behind him a log cabin breathed smokily through its mud daubed chimney; a pioneer habitation in every crude line and characteristic. On the door hung, drying, the odorous pelt of a "varmint... Continue reading book >>

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