In "Calumet K," Samuel Merwin crafts a gripping narrative that delves into the world of big business and political corruption in early 20th century Chicago. The story follows the ambitious young engineer, Hal, as he navigates the treacherous waters of the Calumet mining company and its powerful, enigmatic leader, Van Horn.

Merwin's writing is sharp and insightful, capturing the tension and intrigue of the era with precision. The characters are well-developed and complex, each with their own motivations and secrets that drive the plot forward. The dynamics between Hal and Van Horn are particularly compelling, as Hal struggles to balance his loyalty to his boss with his own moral compass.

The plot is fast-paced and filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end. Merwin does an excellent job of building suspense and creating a sense of foreboding throughout the story, making "Calumet K" a thrilling and engaging read.

Overall, "Calumet K" is a riveting tale of power, greed, and betrayal set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America. Merwin's skillful storytelling and richly drawn characters make this novel a must-read for fans of historical fiction and political intrigue.

Book Description:

"A novel, with several elements of rather unusual interest. As a tale, it is swift, simple, and absorbing, and one does not willingly put it down until it is finished. It has to do with grain-elevator business, with railways, strikes, and commercial and financial matters generally, woven skilfully into a human story of love." --The Commercial Advertiser

"'Calumet "K"' is a novel that is exciting and absorbing, but not the least bit sensational. It is the story of a rush.... The book is an unusually good story; one that shows the inner workings of the labor union, and portrays men who are the bone and sinew of the earth."--The Toledo Blade.

"The heroine in this case is the hero's stenographer; but the action of the story grows out of the attempt of rival capitalists and grain men to balk the building of a grain elevator by a set date." --The Burlington Free Press