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 (Author), Colin Heston (Introduction)

Cy Whittaker’s Place by Joseph C. Lincoln is a humorous and heartwarming novel set in the fictional Cape Cod town of Bayport. The story follows Captain Cy Whittaker, a former sea captain who returns to his hometown after years of sailing and making his fortune. Having left Bayport as a young man with no intention of coming back, Cy finds himself drawn back to the familiar shores and the old homestead, now in disrepair and known locally as “the Cy Whittaker place.” With no surviving relatives and a reputation to rebuild, Cy sets out to reestablish himself in the community, bringing with him a mix of worldly wisdom, dry wit, and a generous heart.

As Cy settles into life on land, he becomes involved in the town’s affairs, often clashing with local politics and social expectations. His unconventional ways and blunt honesty both amuse and unsettle the townspeople, but over time, his integrity and kindness win them over. A central thread of the story involves Cy’s guardianship of a young boy, whose presence brings new purpose and emotional depth to his life. The novel also features a romantic subplot, as Cy navigates the complexities of rekindled relationships and new affections, all while trying to do right by those around him.

Lincoln populates the novel with a colorful cast of Cape Cod characters, including the meticulous town clerk Asaph Tidditt, the meddling but well-meaning neighbors, and the ever-watchful townsfolk who provide a steady stream of gossip and commentary. The narrative is rich with regional dialect, local color, and the gentle humor that characterizes Lincoln’s work. Through Cy’s journey, the novel explores themes of redemption, community, and the enduring value of home and belonging. With its blend of comedy, sentiment, and social observation, Cy Whittaker’s Place offers a nostalgic and uplifting portrait of small-town life and the quiet heroism of an ordinary man determined to make a difference.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. 200 p.

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

The Depot Master by Joseph C. Lincoln is a warm and humorous novel set in the fictional Cape Cod town of East Harniss. The story centers on Captain Solomon Berry, affectionately known as Cap’n Sol, who serves as the depot master—a position that places him at the heart of the town’s daily life and gossip. Cap’n Sol is a retired sea captain with a strong sense of justice, a dry wit, and a deep affection for his community. His role at the depot brings him into contact with a wide array of townspeople, each with their own quirks and stories, and he often finds himself drawn into their personal dramas and schemes.

The arrival of Ruth Nelson, a young and talented artist seeking refuge from a troubled past, introduces a romantic and emotional thread to the narrative. Ruth’s presence stirs both admiration and suspicion among the townsfolk, and Cap’n Sol becomes her unlikely protector and confidant. As Ruth tries to rebuild her life, she must navigate the challenges of small-town scrutiny and the lingering shadows of her history. Meanwhile, Cap’n Sol finds himself at odds with Mr. Williams, a wealthy and manipulative figure whose ambitions threaten the harmony of East Harniss. Their conflict becomes a central tension in the story, highlighting themes of integrity, community, and the quiet heroism of standing up for what is right.

Lincoln populates the novel with a rich cast of secondary characters, including the eccentric Mr. Simeon Phinney, whose sign advertises a bewildering array of services, and the ever-curious townspeople who gather at the depot not just for mail, but for news and camaraderie. The novel’s episodic structure allows for a series of vignettes that together paint a vivid portrait of Cape Cod life, filled with humor, sentiment, and a deep appreciation for the everyday struggles and triumphs of ordinary people.

Through Cap’n Sol’s steady presence and moral compass, The Depot Master celebrates the values of kindness, resilience, and community spirit. Lincoln’s storytelling, rich in local color and dialect, offers a nostalgic and uplifting glimpse into a world where decency and compassion quietly shape the course of lives.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. p.173p.

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

Cap’n Eri by Joseph C. Lincoln is a lighthearted and endearing novel set in a small Cape Cod town, where three retired sea captains—Eri, Jerry, and Perez—live together in a somewhat chaotic but good-natured bachelor household. As they grow older, they begin to realize that their domestic arrangements are becoming increasingly unmanageable, especially when it comes to cooking and housekeeping. The trio decides that the best solution is to find a housekeeper, but their plan takes an unexpected turn when they conclude that the most efficient way to secure one is for one of them to get married. This leads to a humorous and sometimes awkward series of events as they attempt to find a suitable bride through a matrimonial advertisement.

The story unfolds with a mix of comedic misunderstandings, heartfelt moments, and the gentle satire of small-town life. When a woman named Mrs. Snow responds to the ad and arrives in town, the captains are thrown into a whirlwind of adjustments and surprises. Mrs. Snow is not quite what they expected, and her presence begins to shift the dynamics of the household in unexpected ways. Meanwhile, a subplot involving a young man named John Brown and his romantic interest in a local girl adds a layer of youthful energy and emotional depth to the narrative.

Lincoln’s portrayal of Cape Cod life is rich with regional dialect, local color, and a deep affection for the traditions and quirks of the community. The novel is not just a comedy of manners but also a reflection on aging, companionship, and the importance of human connection. Through the humorous escapades of the three captains and the evolving relationships among the characters, Cap’n Eri offers a warm and nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era, celebrating the resilience and kindness of ordinary people navigating life’s changes together.

This edition has been reformatted, designed, abridged and annotated  by renowned novelist and story writer Colin Heston to remove errors and other distracting content that occurred in the original edition, making the book more accessible for the present day reader..

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. 179 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 Joseph C. Lincoln . Designed and Edited by Colin Heston.

*Cape Cod Stories* by Joseph C. Lincoln is a charming collection of short stories that vividly captures the spirit, humor, and character of life in small-town Cape Cod at the turn of the 20th century. The stories are narrated by a local character, often Cap’n Jonadab or his friend, and revolve around the fictional town of East Wellmouth, a stand-in for the many quaint villages that dot the Cape. Each tale is steeped in the dialect, customs, and eccentricities of the region, offering a nostalgic and affectionate portrayal of New England coastal life. The collection includes stories such as “Two Pairs of Shoes,” “The Count and the Manager,” “The South Shore Weather Bureau,” “The Dog Star,” “The Mare and the Motor,” “The Mark on the Door,” “The Love of Lobelia ’Ankins,” “The Meanness of Rosy,” “The Antiquers,” “His Native Heath,” and “Jonesy.” These stories often center on humorous misunderstandings, romantic entanglements, and the clash between tradition and modernity. For example, in “The Mare and the Motor,” the arrival of a newfangled automobile causes a stir in the community, leading to a series of comic events that highlight the tension between old ways and new technologies. In “The Count and the Manager,” a visiting European nobleman becomes entangled in local affairs, revealing both the pretensions and the down-to-earth wisdom of the Cape Codders. Lincoln’s characters are often crusty but kind-hearted, with a deep sense of community and a wry sense of humor. The stories are rich in local color, with detailed descriptions of the landscape, the sea, and the rhythms of daily life. Lincoln’s prose is warm and engaging, drawing readers into a world where values like honesty, hard work, and neighborliness prevail. While the stories are light-hearted and often comedic, they also reflect deeper themes of change, identity, and the enduring strength of community bonds. Through these tales, Lincoln preserves a way of life that was already beginning to fade, offering readers both entertainment and a poignant reminder of the past.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. p.144.

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

The Big Mogul is a warm, character-driven novel set in a small New England town, where the rhythms of coastal life and the intricacies of human relationships unfold with gentle humor and emotional depth. The story centers on Foster Townsend, a wealthy, proud, and somewhat cantankerous man who is grappling with the loneliness that has settled over his life following the death of his beloved wife. His grand mansion, once filled with warmth and companionship, now feels hollow and cold. In an effort to fill this emotional void, he considers inviting his estranged niece, Esther, to live with him. Esther, who has been raised by her aunt Reliance after the death of her parents, represents a potential new beginning for Foster, though he is unsure how to bridge the emotional distance between them.

As the narrative unfolds, the novel explores the evolving relationship between Foster and Esther, marked by moments of awkwardness, affection, and gradual understanding. Their interactions are shaped by Foster’s brusque demeanor and Esther’s quiet resilience, and the story gently reveals how both characters begin to heal and grow through their connection. The novel also delves into the broader community dynamics of the town, where long-standing feuds, gossip, and the quirks of small-town life add texture and humor to the story. A subplot involving young love between members of two feuding families adds a layer of romantic tension and serves as a counterpoint to the more mature emotional journey of Foster and Esther.

Lincoln’s writing is imbued with a nostalgic affection for Cape Cod and its people, and he paints his characters with a blend of realism and idealism that makes them both believable and endearing. The novel resists the darker currents of contemporary naturalist literature, instead offering a comforting vision of human decency, reconciliation, and the possibility of renewal. Through its gentle pacing and focus on character over plot, The Big Mogul invites readers to reflect on the importance of family, the pain of loss, and the quiet joys of rediscovered connection.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. p.261p.

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 and Lloyd Osbourne, Edited by Colin Heston.

“The Ebb-Tide: A Trio and Quartette” is a dark, psychologically complex novella co-written by Robert Louis Stevenson and his stepson Lloyd Osbourne, first published in 1894. Included in Volume XIX of the Swanston Edition of Stevenson’s collected works, this tale marks one of the final literary efforts of Stevenson’s life and reflects his mature style—gritty, morally ambiguous, and deeply engaged with the human condition.

Set in the South Pacific, a region Stevenson had come to know intimately during his later years, The Ebb-Tide follows three disgraced and destitute Europeans—Herrick, Davis, and Huish—who find themselves stranded in Tahiti. When they are offered the chance to captain a cargo schooner, the Farallone, they seize the opportunity, only to discover that the ship is carrying a mysterious and morally troubling cargo. Their journey soon spirals into a tale of greed, betrayal, and existential crisis, culminating in a confrontation with Attwater, a charismatic and enigmatic missionary who lives alone on a remote island.

The novella is notable for its psychological depth and moral complexity. Each character represents a different facet of human weakness—cowardice, cruelty, and self-deception—and Stevenson explores how these traits play out under the pressures of isolation and lawlessness. The tropical setting, far from being idyllic, becomes a backdrop for moral decay and spiritual reckoning. The story’s title, The Ebb-Tide, metaphorically suggests the retreat of moral certainty and the erosion of personal integrity.

Stylistically, the work is lean and intense, with Stevenson’s prose sharpened by his collaboration with Osbourne. The narrative is driven by suspense and philosophical inquiry, raising questions about redemption, colonialism, and the nature of evil. It is often seen as a companion piece to Stevenson’s earlier South Seas fiction, such as The Beach of Falesá, but it is darker and more introspective in tone.

The Swanston Edition provides this novella with critical annotations and historical context, situating it within Stevenson’s broader literary and biographical trajectory. As one of his final works, The Ebb-Tide offers a powerful and unsettling vision of the human soul adrift—both literally and morally—on the margins of empire and civilization.

Read-Me.Org Inc. Australia-New York-Philadelphia. 2025. 216p.

By R. L. Stevenson. Edited by Colin Heston

"The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses" is a historical adventure novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, first published in 1888. Set during the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses in 15th-century England, the story follows the young protagonist, Richard Shelton. Richard is caught in the conflict between the houses of York and Lancaster, and his journey is marked by themes of loyalty, betrayal, and revenge. The novel begins with Richard discovering that his guardian, Sir Daniel Brackley, is involved in treacherous activities. As Richard seeks justice for his father's murder, he joins forces with a band of outlaws known as the Black Arrow. The leader of the outlaws, John Amend-All, becomes a key ally in Richard's quest. Throughout the narrative, Richard faces numerous challenges, including battles, escapes, and romantic entanglements with Joanna Sedley, a young woman disguised as a boy. Stevenson's vivid descriptions and fast-paced plot make "The Black Arrow" a captivating read. The novel seamlessly combines elements of adventure, romance, and historical fiction, offering readers a thrilling portrayal of medieval England and its intricate political landscape.

Volume VIII of the Swanston Edition of "The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson" continues to showcase Stevenson's literary versatility. This volume typically includes a mix of his essays, short stories, and other writings, reflecting his wide-ranging interests and talents. The Swanston Edition is renowned for its comprehensive and authoritative compilation of Stevenson's works, providing readers with an in-depth exploration of his literary contributions. Each volume in this series highlights Stevenson's ability to engage readers with his storytelling prowess across various genres and styles. 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. New York, Philadelphia, Australia. 2025. 178p.

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 R.L. Stevenson. Edited by Colin Heston

Volume 3 of the works of Robert Louis Stevenson is a fascinating collection that showcases his versatility as a writer. This volume includes the chilling short story "The Body Snatcher" and the insightful essays in "Familiar Studies of Men and Books."

"The Body Snatcher" is a macabre tale that delves into the dark world of grave robbing and medical ethics. Set in 19th-century Scotland, the story follows Fettes, a medical student, and his involvement with the unscrupulous Dr. Wolfe Macfarlane. The duo engages in the illegal practice of body snatching to supply cadavers for anatomical study. Stevenson's narrative is rich with suspense and horror, exploring themes of guilt, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. The story's climax is particularly haunting, leaving readers with a lingering sense of dread and contemplation about the darker aspects of human nature.

"Familiar Studies of Men and Books" is a collection of essays in which Stevenson examines the lives and works of various literary figures and thinkers. Through these essays, Stevenson offers his reflections on the personalities and contributions of individuals such as Victor Hugo, Robert Burns, and Walt Whitman. His writing is characterized by a blend of critical analysis and personal insight, revealing his deep appreciation for literature and the human condition. Stevenson’s essays are not merely biographical; they are thoughtful explorations of the impact these figures had on their respective fields and on Stevenson himself. The essays are marked by Stevenson's eloquent prose and his ability to connect with readers on an intellectual and emotional level.

Overall. Volume 3 of Stevenson's works is a testament to his literary prowess, combining the eerie and gripping narrative of "The Body Snatcher" with the reflective and scholarly essays in "Familiar Studies of Men and Books." This volume highlights Stevenson's ability to traverse different genres and themes, offering readers a rich and varied reading experience. Through his storytelling and essays, Stevenson continues to captivate and provoke thought, making this collection a valuable addition to his oeuvre.

Read-Me.Org. Australia. 2025. 185p.

By Rolf Boldrewood

Plain Living: A Bush Idyll is a captivating tale that delves into the simple yet profound world of rural life. Written in exquisite detail, the novel follows the journey of Sarah, a young woman who leaves the hustle and bustle of the city to seek solace in the peaceful countryside. As she immerses herself in the beauty of nature and the warmth of community, Sarah discovers a deeper connection to the land and its inhabitants.

Through lyrical prose and vivid descriptions, the author paints a rich portrait of life in the bush, intertwining themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Plain Living invites readers to slow down, appreciate the small moments, and find joy in the quietude of rural living. A poignant and heartfelt narrative, this book is a celebration of simple pleasures and the enduring spirit of the human heart.

Macmillan, 1898, 316 pages

By “The Senator from Alaska”

THE glittering particles of worthless mica found in the sands of the many streams in the West and Alaska deceived innumerable untrained prospectors who had gone out, full of hope and ambition, to locate Nature’s hidden stores of real gold. Posting their location notices and believing that they were rich beyond even the fondest dreams of avarice, they hastened to the nearest mining camp there to celebrate their good fortune in days and nights of riotous spending. When they had exhausted their available cash and much of the credit they had gained by telling of their discovery, they retired to sleep off the debauch. Upon awakening, they were informed by some old-timer that what they had found was nothing but worthless fools gold.

MADISON & MARSHALL, INC. 1936, 242p.

By Richard Harding Davis

Farces: The Dictator; The Galloper; Miss Civilization is a collection of three short plays written by American author Richard Harding Davis. Each play is a comedic farce that satirizes different aspects of society.The first play, The Dictator, is set in a fictional South American country and follows the bumbling attempts of an American journalist to overthrow the corrupt dictator and install a democratic government. The play pokes fun at American imperialism and the idea of spreading democracy through force.The second play, The Galloper, is set in a military camp during the Spanish-American War and follows the misadventures of a young officer who is more interested in impressing his girlfriend than in fighting the enemy. The play satirizes the military and the idea of war as a romantic adventure.The third play, Miss Civilization, is set in a small town in the American West and follows the arrival of a sophisticated New York socialite who tries to bring culture and refinement to the rough and tumble frontier. The play pokes fun at the idea of cultural superiority and the clash of cultures.Overall, Farces: The Dictator; The Galloper; Miss Civilization is a humorous and lighthearted collection that provides a snapshot of American society and culture at the turn of the 20th century.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS: NEW YORK 1906, 357p.