By Joseph C. Lincoln (Author), Colin Heston (Introduction)

In Shavings, published in 1918 at the peak of his literary success, Joseph C. Lincoln again turns his familiar eye and pen toward Cape Cod—its people, its rhythms, and its moral heart. Like much of Lincoln’s fiction, this novel offers more than light entertainment; it is a nuanced exploration of human decency, community obligation, and emotional transformation, wrapped in a quietly humorous and affectionately drawn setting.
Set in the fictional village of East Wellmouth, Shavings centers on a seemingly unremarkable character: a middle-aged man named Lemuel “Shavings” Keziah, a gentle and eccentric resident who works as a handyman and caretaker of sorts at the local ship-chandlery. What begins as a portrait of a quiet, solitary man becomes a deeper meditation on compassion, guardianship, and the power of unassuming kindness to transform lives. In this novel, Lincoln refines his formula of New England coastal fiction, combining rich local detail, deft character sketches, and moral clarity in a story that both reflects and transcends its setting.
The title Shavings is rich in metaphor. At the surface level, it refers to wood shavings—fragments trimmed away in the process of building or shaping. But on a deeper level, it suggests themes of smallness, modesty, and the overlooked. Lemuel Keziah is, like his namesake shavings, a figure that most would pass over without a second thought. He is plain, odd, physically unimposing, and considered somewhat simple by his neighbors. Yet within that uncarved block of humility lies a figure of enormous quiet integrity, and Lincoln’s triumph is in showing how such a man can become a pillar of his community and a redeemer in the lives of others.
Lincoln gives us a novel that blends humility with heart, modesty with moral insight. It is a story of redemption through quiet persistence, of fatherhood without blood, and of character tested not by fame or fortune but by the daily demands of decency. For those who cherish gentle fiction with real emotional weight, Shavings is a touchstone. It evokes a vanished New England but leaves in its place timeless lessons on love, trust, and the power of doing good without seeking reward. In Lemuel Keziah, Lincoln offers a model of quiet heroism whose relevance has only grown with time.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. 229p.

By Alexander K. McClure (Author), Colin Heston (Introduction)

Abe’s Yarns and Stories, edited by Alexander K. McClure and first published in 1901 by the International Publishing Company, is a unique and enduring contribution to the cultural memory of Abraham Lincoln. Rather than a conventional biography, this volume presents Lincoln through the lens of his own storytelling—anecdotes, jokes, parables, and recollections that he used to communicate, persuade, and connect with people from all walks of life. The book is both a literary and historical artifact, capturing the essence of Lincoln’s personality and the oral tradition that helped shape his public image. McClure, a journalist and political figure who knew Lincoln personally, compiled this collection not only to entertain but to preserve the wit and wisdom of a man whose humor was as integral to his leadership as his moral conviction.
What makes Abe’s Yarns and Stories particularly compelling is its blend of folklore and fact. While some of the anecdotes may be apocryphal or embellished, they reflect the way Lincoln was remembered and revered by those who knew him and those who came after. The book thus serves as a bridge between history and myth, illustrating how Lincoln’s legacy was shaped not only by his deeds but by the stories told about him. McClure’s editorial voice is respectful and admiring, but he allows Lincoln’s own words and the voices of his contemporaries to take center stage. The result is a portrait that is intimate, humanizing, and deeply American. His rich self-education and his storytelling formed the foundation of a presidency that not only preserved the Union but also reshaped the American identity. They allowed him to lead not just with policy, but with wisdom and heart—qualities that continue to define his legacy.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. 360p.

By Joseph Crosby Lincoln . Designed and Edited with an Introduction by Colin Heston

Joseph C. Lincoln's 1920 novel The Portygee holds a unique place in his body of work. Known for his warm-hearted Cape Cod tales celebrating small-town life, moral decency, and New England character, Lincoln here expands his focus to address questions of heritage, identity, and belonging in a changing America. While retaining the gentle humor and richly textured settings that made him popular with early 20th-century readers, The Portygee engages more directly with themes of cultural difference and assimilation—offering a nuanced portrayal of prejudice, generational misunderstanding, and the search for personal integrity.

The novel’s title refers to the derogatory local slang for “Portuguese,” used to identify individuals of Portuguese descent who had settled along the Massachusetts coast in significant numbers by the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Through this lens, Lincoln examines not only the resilience of the American immigrant but also the sometimes unspoken tensions that lie beneath the surface of even the most tight-knit communities. It is a story of collision—between old and new, native and newcomer, tradition and ambition.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. 262p.

By Joseph C. Lincoln. Designed and Edited with an Introduction by Colin Heston

Published in 1921, Galusha the Magnificent stands as one of Joseph Crosby Lincoln’s most beloved and subtly humorous novels—a story that embodies the author’s signature blend of small-town Cape Cod charm, gently satirical social commentary, and richly drawn characters. Lincoln, often hailed as the “Bard of Cape Cod,” built a prolific career chronicling the lives, habits, and quirks of New England coastal communities. In Galusha the Magnificent, he brings his literary artistry to full bloom by offering readers a delightfully incongruous protagonist: a mild-mannered, absent-minded biblical archaeologist who finds himself entangled in the practical and parochial dramas of a fictional Cape Cod town.

Like many of Lincoln’s novels, Galusha the Magnificent is set in a fictional Cape Cod village—in this case, the town of Trumet. Lincoln’s Trumet is a lovingly detailed and recognizable composite of real Cape Cod communities, built upon generations of seafaring traditions, strong social cohesion, and a lively sense of local identity. For Lincoln, setting is never mere background. The Cape Cod environment—with its salt air, white churches, general stores, and crusty locals—serves as a character in its own right. Trumet is where the genteel values of Old New England meet the changing modern world of the early 20th century, and this dynamic tension is what fuels the plot and humor of the book.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. 272p.

By Joseph C. Lincoln. Designed and Edited with an Introduction by Colin Heston

Cap’n Warren’s Wards by Joseph C. Lincoln is a heartwarming and humorous novel set in a quaint Cape Cod town in the late 19th century. The story follows Captain Elihu Warren, a retired sea captain who has settled into a quiet life after years at sea. His peaceful routine is upended when he unexpectedly becomes the guardian of two orphaned siblings, Joseph and Ruth. These children, who have been raised in a more refined and urban environment, are suddenly thrust into the rustic and straightforward world of Cape Cod, creating a clash of cultures and expectations that fuels much of the novel’s charm and humor.

Captain Warren, though initially bewildered by the responsibility, approaches his new role with a mix of gruff kindness and genuine care. As he navigates the challenges of raising two young people, he finds his life enriched by their presence. Joseph is headstrong and idealistic, while Ruth is sensitive and intelligent, and both bring a new sense of purpose and vitality to the captain’s life. The novel explores their gradual adjustment to Cape Cod life, the bonds they form with the local community, and the personal growth they experience under the captain’s guidance.

The story is populated with a cast of colorful secondary characters, including the eccentric Aunt Lavinia and the mischievous Eben Salters, who add depth and humor to the narrative. Lincoln’s portrayal of small-town life is affectionate and detailed, filled with the rhythms of daily chores, community gossip, and the ever-present influence of the sea. The novel emphasizes themes of resilience, the importance of family—whether by blood or by choice—and the quiet heroism of everyday kindness.

As the characters face various trials and misunderstandings, they come to understand the value of simplicity, honesty, and love. Captain Warren, in particular, undergoes a transformation from a solitary figure to a beloved patriarch, discovering that the greatest adventures can sometimes be found not on the high seas, but in the hearts of those we care for. Lincoln’s storytelling is rich with Cape Cod dialect and atmosphere, offering readers a nostalgic and uplifting glimpse into a bygone era.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. p.

By Joseph C. Lincloln. Introduction by Colin Heston.

Cap’n Dan’s Daughter* by Joseph C. Lincoln is a heartwarming and humorous novel set in the fictional Cape Cod town of Trumet. The story follows Captain Dan Dott, a retired sea captain who now runs a struggling dry goods store, and his family, particularly his ambitious wife Serena and their clever daughter Gertrude. Captain Dan is a simple, good-natured man who finds himself increasingly overwhelmed by the pressures of domestic life and the social aspirations of his wife, who is determined to elevate the family’s status in the community. Serena’s ambitions are fueled when the family receives news of an inheritance from a wealthy relative, which she sees as their ticket to a more refined and prominent lifestyle.

As Serena pushes the family into a more genteel social circle, she becomes increasingly controlling and obsessed with appearances, dragging Captain Dan along with her plans despite his discomfort. Gertrude, however, sees through the pretensions and recognizes the strain it places on her father. She devises a clever plan to gently undermine her mother’s social climbing and restore a sense of balance and authenticity to their lives. Her scheme, while well-intentioned, nearly backfires, leading to a series of misunderstandings and comic situations that test the family’s unity and resilience.

Throughout the novel, Lincoln’s affection for Cape Cod and its people shines through. He populates the story with colorful local characters and infuses the narrative with regional dialect, humor, and a deep sense of place. The novel explores themes of family loyalty, the tension between tradition and change, and the importance of staying true to oneself. In the end, the Dott family comes to a deeper understanding of what truly matters, finding contentment not in wealth or social standing, but in love, honesty, and the enduring bonds of family.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. 222p.

By  Robert Louis Stevenson. Edited by Colin Heston

“The Story of a Lie” is one of Cs earliest works of fiction, first published in 1879 and later included in Volume XXI of the Swanston Edition of his collected works. Though lesser known than his major novels, this short novella is a significant piece in Stevenson’s literary development, showcasing his early experimentation with moral themes, psychological conflict, and narrative form.

The story centers on Dick Naseby, a young man of artistic temperament and idealistic values, who becomes entangled in a web of deception involving his friend Edward Langham and Langham’s romantic interest, Esther Warriston. Langham, a man of weak character and social ambition, fabricates a noble identity to win Esther’s affection. Dick, initially complicit in the lie out of loyalty, soon finds himself morally compromised and emotionally conflicted as the consequences of the deception unfold.

At its core, The Story of a Lie is a moral fable—a study of how even well-intentioned falsehoods can spiral into destructive outcomes. Stevenson explores the psychological burden of dishonesty, the tension between personal integrity and social expectation, and the painful awakening that often accompanies disillusionment. The narrative is compact but layered, with Stevenson’s characteristic wit and insight into human nature already evident.

Stylistically, the novella reflects Stevenson’s early prose—elegant, precise, and tinged with irony. Though the plot is relatively simple, the emotional and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters give the story depth and resonance. It also anticipates themes that would recur in Stevenson’s later works, such as dual identity, moral ambiguity, and the conflict between appearance and reality. Though not as widely read as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde or Treasure Island, “The Story of a Lie” remains a compelling and thought-provoking piece, valuable for its literary craftsmanship and its exploration of timeless ethical questions.

The Swanston Edition presents The Story of a Lie with scholarly annotations and contextual commentary, situating it within Stevenson’s broader literary career and the Victorian literary landscape. As part of Volume XXI, it is accompanied by other shorter works and essays, offering readers a fuller view of Stevenson’s range and evolution as a writer. Other works included in this volume are: Olalla, A Fragment, Heathercat, The Great North Road, The Young Chevalier, and Fables  .

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Australia-Philadelphia. 2025. 190p.

By R. L. Stevenson. Edited by Colin Heston.

“St. Ives: Being the Adventures of a French Prisoner in England” is an unfinished historical romance by Robert Louis Stevenson, posthumously Vol. XX published and included in Volume XX of the Swanston Edition of his collected works. Begun in 1893 during Stevenson’s final years in Samoa, the novel was left incomplete at his death in 1894 and later finished by Arthur Quiller-Couch, a respected British writer and editor.

Set during the Napoleonic Wars, St. Ives follows the escapades of Viscomte Anne de Keroual de St. Ives, a dashing and witty French officer who is captured and imprisoned in Scotland. The novel opens with his internment at Edinburgh Castle, from which he eventually escapes, embarking on a series of adventures across the British countryside. Along the way, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, including fellow prisoners, eccentric aristocrats, and a romantic interest, Flora Gilchrist, whose loyalty and courage become central to the story.

Thematically, St. Ives explores identity, honor, and the absurdities of war, all delivered with Stevenson’s characteristic blend of humor, irony, and narrative flair. The protagonist’s aristocratic pride and gallant demeanor are frequently tested by the unpredictable circumstances of exile and captivity, offering a light-hearted yet insightful commentary on the nature of heroism and national rivalry.

Although the novel remains incomplete in Stevenson’s hand—he wrote approximately thirty chapters before his death—Quiller-Couch’s continuation, based on Stevenson’s notes and stylistic cues, brings the story to a satisfying conclusion. The transition between authors is handled with care, though literary scholars often distinguish between the two parts in terms of tone and polish.

The Swanston Edition presents St. Ives with critical apparatus, including editorial notes and historical context, allowing readers to appreciate both the literary qualities of the work and the circumstances of its creation. As a late work, it reflects Stevenson’s enduring fascination with adventure, character, and the interplay between personal freedom and historical forces.

“St. Ives” stands as a testament to Stevenson’s narrative gifts and his ability to infuse even unfinished tales with charm, wit, and enduring appeal. It offers a unique glimpse into the author’s creative process and remains a valuable piece of his literary legacy.

This volume has been carefully edited and redesigned by Colin Heston, a renowned novelist and storyteller, to make the book more enjoyable and comprehensible to the modern reader.

Read-Me.Org Inc. Australia-New York-Philadelphia. 2025. 245p.

by Robert Louis Stevenson (Author), Colin Heston (Editor)

Volume VII of the Swanston Edition of "The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson" continues to present a diverse collection of Stevenson's literary output. This volume typically includes a mix of his essays, short stories, and other writings, reflecting his wide-ranging interests and talents. The lead piece, "Prince Otto", was first published in 1885. The story is set in the fictional Germanic principality of Grünewald and follows the titular character, Prince Otto Johann Friedrich. Otto is a well-meaning but somewhat ineffectual ruler, whose reign is marked by political intrigue and personal dilemmas. The novel explores themes of power, responsibility, and personal growth as Otto grapples with his duties as a prince and his relationships with those around him, including his wife, Princess Seraphina, and his scheming ministers. "Prince Otto" is notable for its blend of romance, adventure, and political satire, showcasing Stevenson's versatility as a writer.

This volume has been carefully edited and redesigned by Colin Heston, renowned novelist and story writer, to make the book more comprehensible to the present-day reader.

By George Eliot. Introduction by Colin Heston

Step into the rich tapestry of Renaissance Florence with George Eliot's Romola, a novel that masterfully intertwines politics, religion, philosophy, and personal transformation. Originally published as a serial in The Cornhill Magazine from July 1862 to August 1863, and later in three volumes by Smith, Elder & Co., Romola stands as one of Eliot's most ambitious and intellectually rich works..

In this special edition, Colin Heston provides a compelling introduction that sets the stage for Eliot's intricate narrative. Heston's introduction delves into the historical and cultural backdrop of late 15th-century Florence, a city undergoing dramatic transformation following the death of Lorenzo de’ Medici and the rise of the Dominican friar Girolamo Savonarola. Heston highlights how Eliot's profound historical research and deep psychological insight bring to life the ideological conflicts and moral questions faced by the protagonists.

Follow the journey of Romola de’ Bardi, the daughter of a blind scholar, as she navigates personal disillusionment and societal upheaval. Raised in an environment that reveres knowledge and classical learning, Romola's path becomes entangled with Tito Melema, a charming but opportunistic Greek scholar. As Romola evolves from a passive intellectual companion to an active agent of change, she becomes a symbol of ethical steadfastness and selfless service.

Eliot's Romola engages with themes of reform, idealism, and the struggles of the human soul against the tides of history. Through Savonarola's rise and fall, Eliot examines the dangers and possibilities of ideological purity, raising questions about the balance between faith, reason, and pragmatism. The novel suggests that while individuals are often caught within the larger movements of history, personal choices and moral convictions can shape the course of one's life. Reflecting Eliot's engagement with historical materialism, moral idealism, and the complexities of human character, Romola is deeply philosophical. Heston's introduction underscores the novel's ambitious scope, feminist undertones, and philosophical depth, making it a significant achievement in historical fiction.

For those willing to immerse themselves in its complex narrative, Romola offers a rewarding exploration of human character set against one of the most fascinating periods of European history. This edition, enriched by Colin Heston's insightful introduction, invites readers to experience Eliot's remarkable ability to illuminate the past while grappling with timeless questions of morality, identity, and social responsibility.

Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025. 411p.

By George Meredith

This book, first published in 1859, is a novel that explores the complexities of human nature and the consequences of rigid educational systems. The story centers around Sir Austin Feverel, who devises a strict educational plan known as "the System" to raise his son, Richard, in isolation from the corrupting influences of society. Despite Sir Austin's efforts, Richard falls in love with Lucy Desborough, a girl of lower social standing, leading to a series of tragic events. The novel delves into themes of love, passion, and the limitations of authoritarian control, offering a critical examination of contemporary attitudes toward education and sexuality.

Meredith's work is notable for its rich psychological analysis and lyrical prose, significantly contributing to Victorian literature. The novel's exploration of the father-son relationship and the impact of societal expectations on individual lives is both poignant and thought-provoking. "The Ordeal of Richard Feverel" was controversial at the time of its publication, with some readers finding its content prurient, leading to its ban by leading lending libraries. Despite this, it has endured as a classic, praised for its depth and literary merit.

First published by Chapman & Hall in a three-volume set. 1859. This edition Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025. 320p.

By George Eliot

e lives of siblings Tom and Maggie Tulliver. Their story unfolds against the backdrop of Dorlcote Mill, their family's ancestral home and livelihood. From childhood to adulthood, Tom and Maggie navigate the complexities of familial duty, societal expectations, and personal aspirations. Maggie Tulliver, with her intelligence, emotional depth, and yearning for a life beyond the provincial confines, emerges as one of literature's most compelling heroines. Her struggles against the rigid gender roles of her time and her passionate quest for self-identity resonate deeply with readers. Tom, her pragmatic and duty-bound brother, often finds himself at odds with Maggie's impulsive nature, creating a dynamic and poignant sibling relationship.

George Eliot's masterful storytelling is evident in her rich character development and psychological insight. She delves into the inner lives of her characters, offering a nuanced portrayal of their motivations and conflicts. The novel's themes of duty, loyalty, and the constraints imposed by society are explored with empathy and realism, making it a powerful critique of the social structures of the time. "The Mill on the Floss" also reflects the broader economic and social changes of the 19th century. The Tulliver family's financial troubles, brought about by Mr. Tulliver's imprudent business decisions, mirror the uncertainties faced by many during the period of industrialization. Eliot's vivid depiction of rural life and the impact of modernization adds depth to the narrative, making it relevant to contemporary readers.

This novel is not just a story of personal and familial struggles but also a meditation on the forces of fate and the resilience of the human spirit. The tragic climax, marked by a devastating flood, underscores the novel's themes of loss, redemption, and the inexorable flow of life. Immerse yourself in "The Mill on the Floss," a literary masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire readers with its timeless exploration of human nature and society. Whether you're a long-time fan of George Eliot or discovering her work for the first time, this novel promises a rich and rewarding reading experience.

First published on April 4, 1860 by William Blackwood and Sons. This edition by Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025.. 367p.

By George Eliot

"Middlemarch" by George Eliot is a richly woven tapestry of life in a provincial English town during the early 19th century. The novel delves into the lives, ambitions, and struggles of its diverse cast of characters, exploring themes of marriage, idealism, political reform, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. At its heart is Dorothea Brooke, an intelligent and idealistic young woman whose aspirations for a meaningful life lead her into a complex marriage with the much older scholar, Edward Casaubon. Alongside Dorothea's story, the novel follows the fortunes of other key figures, such as the ambitious but flawed doctor Tertius Lydgate, the charming and morally ambiguous Will Ladislaw, and the steadfast yet troubled banker, Nicholas Bulstrode. Through its intricate plot and deep psychological insight, "Middlemarch" offers a profound commentary on the social and political issues of the time, while also providing timeless reflections on human nature and relationships.

• "Middlemarch" is celebrated for its intricate narrative and profound exploration of social, political, and personal themes.

• The novel features rich and complex characters, such as Dorothea Brooke and Tertius Lydgate, who reflect societal struggles and limitations.

• Eliot's work provides a detailed social and political commentary on 19th-century England, addressing issues like the Reform Bill of 1832 and the impact of industrialization.

• The themes of personal fulfillment, societal expectations, and moral integrity are timeless and resonate with readers across generations.

• Despite its length and complexity, "Middlemarch" remains relevant for its exploration of social issues, influence on modern writers, and significance in feminist literary criticism.

First published in eight installments between 1871 and 1872 by William Blackwood and Sons. This edition Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025. 690p.

Byy Ludwig Lewisohn (Author), Graeme Newman (Editor)

“The Case of Mr. Crump” by Ludwig Lewisohn is a richly detailed narrative that delves into the complex lives of Anne and Herbert Crump. The story spans multiple stages of their lives, exploring themes of love, manipulation, duty, and the pursuit of artistic integrity. Anne’s tumultuous past and manipulative nature clash with Herbert’s aspirations as a young musician, leading to a series of personal and professional struggles. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, the novel portrays Herbert’s journey through marital conflicts, familial obligations, and his relentless quest for success in the music industry. The narrative is marked by intense emotional conflicts, societal pressures, and the enduring impact of past traumas on the characters’ lives. Editing of the book corrects punctuation and spelling errors and improves the overall design and layout of the book, taking care to preserve the author's style. The interior design has been improved to make the book easier to read. The new Introduction offers a detailed overview of the novel and discusses the cultural and historical significance of Lewisohn's work.

Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025.

By George Eliot

"Adam Bede," written by George Eliot, is a novel set in the rural community of Hayslope in 1799. The story revolves around Adam Bede, a diligent and morally upright carpenter, who is in love with Hetty Sorrel, a beautiful but superficial dairymaid. Hetty, however, is infatuated with Captain Arthur Donnithorne, the charming but irresponsible grandson of the local squire. The novel explores the complexities of their relationships and the repercussions of their actions.

Adam Bede is characterized by his integrity and strong moral principles, while Hetty's beauty and naivety lead her into a tragic situation. Arthur Donnithorne's seduction of Hetty sets off a chain of events that profoundly affect all the characters involved. Dinah Morris, a Methodist preacher and Hetty's cousin, provides spiritual and moral guidance throughout the story.

The novel is notable for its detailed depiction of rural life, rich character development, and exploration of social and ethical issues. George Eliot's writing is praised for its realism and psychological depth, making "Adam Bede" a significant work in Victorian literature. The narrative delves into themes of love, morality, and social change, offering a poignant and insightful look at human nature and society.

Adam Bede was first published in three volumes on 1 February 1859 by William Blackwood and Sons in Edinburgh and London. The novel was an immediate success, going through multiple editions within the first year. A second edition was released in March 1859, followed by a one-volume edition in 1862. The book was published anonymously at first, but George Eliot’s identity was soon revealed, further increasing public interest in the novel. This version was published by Read-Me.Org. 2025. 427p.

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By Rolf Boldrewood

In "The Last Chance: A Tale of the Golden West," readers are transported to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West during the height of the Gold Rush. Follow the gripping journey of a diverse cast of characters as they navigate the treacherous frontier in search of fortune, redemption, and a place to call home. Filled with heart-pounding action, intricate plot twists, and poignant moments of human connection, this novel captures the essence of resilience and the unyielding spirit of the pioneers who dared to chase their dreams in the untamed wilderness. "The Last Chance" is a compelling narrative that explores the triumphs and tragedies of the human experience against the backdrop of a defining era in American history.

Macmillan, 1905, 402 pages