The Coxswain's Bride also, Jack Frost and Sons; and, A Double Rescue By: Robert Michael Ballantyne (1825-1894)
"The Coxswain's Bride also, Jack Frost and Sons; and, A Double Rescue" is an adventurous tale by Robert Michael Ballantyne that captivates readers through its thrilling plot and vivid portrayals of characters. Set amidst the tumultuous sea, this novel takes readers on a journey filled with dangers, rescues, and unexpected twists. The story revolves around Jack Frost, the brave and skilled coxswain of a lifeboat, who finds himself torn between his duty to save lives and his heart's desire to marry his beloved. As Jack faces numerous challenges, his courage and determination shine through, making him an endearing protagonist. Ballantyne beautifully captures the emotions of Jack as he confronts the harsh realities of life at sea, where death and loss are an ever-present shadow. What sets this novel apart is Ballantyne's meticulous attention to detail when describing the maritime world. His vivid descriptions of stormy seas, howling winds, and treacherous landscapes create an immersive experience for the readers, transporting them into the heart of the action. These descriptions not only serve to enhance the suspense and tension of the plot but also showcase the author's deep knowledge and appreciation of the sea. Moreover, Ballantyne infuses his narrative with well-researched historical facts, providing readers with an educational yet entertaining reading experience. By delving into the life of a coxswain and the dangers they faced, the author sheds light on the valiant efforts of those who risked their lives to save others. This aspect of the book adds a layer of depth and authenticity to the overall storyline. While the action-packed rescues keep readers on the edge of their seats, it is the human relationships and personal dilemmas that truly resonate. Jack Frost's bond with his crewmates and the romantic subplot with his would-be bride add an emotional depth to the narrative, ensuring that readers are emotionally invested in the characters' journeys. One potential drawback of the novel is its occasional slow pace, especially when the author delves into detailed nautical descriptions or in-depth historical background. These segments might be appreciated by nautical enthusiasts, but casual readers could find them a bit tedious. However, for those who enjoy well-researched historical fiction, these details enhance the overall reading experience. In summation, "The Coxswain's Bride also, Jack Frost and Sons; and, A Double Rescue" is an enthralling adventure that celebrates courage, love, and the indomitable spirit of the human heart. Ballantyne's meticulous attention to detail, vivid descriptions, and well-rounded characters make this novel a worthwhile read for anyone seeking a thrilling and emotionally resonant maritime tale. First Page: THE COXSWAIN'S BRIDE, BY R.M. BALLANTYNE. STORY ONE, CHAPTER 1. THE RISING TIDE A TALE OF THE SEA. The coxswain went by the name of Sturdy Bob among his mates. Among the women of the village he was better known as handsome Bob, and, looking at him, you could not help seeing that both titles were appropriate, for our coxswain was broad and strong as well as good looking, with that peculiar cast of features and calm decided manner which frequently distinguish the men who are born to lead their fellows. Robert Massey, though quite young, was already a leader of men not only by nature but by profession being coxswain of the Greyton lifeboat, and, truly, the men who followed his lead had need to be made of good stuff, with bold, enthusiastic, self sacrificing spirits, for he often led them into scenes of wild but, hold! We must not forecast. Well, we introduce our hero to the reader on a calm September evening, which blazed with sunshine. The sun need not have been mentioned, however, but for the fact that it converted the head of a fair haired fisher girl, seated beside Bob, into a ball of rippling gold, and suffused her young cheeks with a glow that rudely intensified her natural colour. She was the coxswain's bride elect, and up to that date the course of their true love had run quite smoothly in spite of adverse proverbs... Continue reading book >>

The Coxswain's Bride also, Jack Frost and Sons; and, A Double Rescue By: Robert Michael Ballantyne (1825-1894)

"The Coxswain's Bride also, Jack Frost and Sons; and, A Double Rescue" is an adventurous tale by Robert Michael Ballantyne that captivates readers through its thrilling plot and vivid portrayals of characters. Set amidst the tumultuous sea, this novel takes readers on a journey filled with dangers, rescues, and unexpected twists.

The story revolves around Jack Frost, the brave and skilled coxswain of a lifeboat, who finds himself torn between his duty to save lives and his heart's desire to marry his beloved. As Jack faces numerous challenges, his courage and determination shine through, making him an endearing protagonist. Ballantyne beautifully captures the emotions of Jack as he confronts the harsh realities of life at sea, where death and loss are an ever-present shadow.

What sets this novel apart is Ballantyne's meticulous attention to detail when describing the maritime world. His vivid descriptions of stormy seas, howling winds, and treacherous landscapes create an immersive experience for the readers, transporting them into the heart of the action. These descriptions not only serve to enhance the suspense and tension of the plot but also showcase the author's deep knowledge and appreciation of the sea.

Moreover, Ballantyne infuses his narrative with well-researched historical facts, providing readers with an educational yet entertaining reading experience. By delving into the life of a coxswain and the dangers they faced, the author sheds light on the valiant efforts of those who risked their lives to save others. This aspect of the book adds a layer of depth and authenticity to the overall storyline.

While the action-packed rescues keep readers on the edge of their seats, it is the human relationships and personal dilemmas that truly resonate. Jack Frost's bond with his crewmates and the romantic subplot with his would-be bride add an emotional depth to the narrative, ensuring that readers are emotionally invested in the characters' journeys.

One potential drawback of the novel is its occasional slow pace, especially when the author delves into detailed nautical descriptions or in-depth historical background. These segments might be appreciated by nautical enthusiasts, but casual readers could find them a bit tedious. However, for those who enjoy well-researched historical fiction, these details enhance the overall reading experience.

In summation, "The Coxswain's Bride also, Jack Frost and Sons; and, A Double Rescue" is an enthralling adventure that celebrates courage, love, and the indomitable spirit of the human heart. Ballantyne's meticulous attention to detail, vivid descriptions, and well-rounded characters make this novel a worthwhile read for anyone seeking a thrilling and emotionally resonant maritime tale.

First Page:

THE COXSWAIN'S BRIDE, BY R.M. BALLANTYNE.

STORY ONE, CHAPTER 1.

THE RISING TIDE A TALE OF THE SEA.

The coxswain went by the name of Sturdy Bob among his mates. Among the women of the village he was better known as handsome Bob, and, looking at him, you could not help seeing that both titles were appropriate, for our coxswain was broad and strong as well as good looking, with that peculiar cast of features and calm decided manner which frequently distinguish the men who are born to lead their fellows.

Robert Massey, though quite young, was already a leader of men not only by nature but by profession being coxswain of the Greyton lifeboat, and, truly, the men who followed his lead had need to be made of good stuff, with bold, enthusiastic, self sacrificing spirits, for he often led them into scenes of wild but, hold! We must not forecast.

Well, we introduce our hero to the reader on a calm September evening, which blazed with sunshine. The sun need not have been mentioned, however, but for the fact that it converted the head of a fair haired fisher girl, seated beside Bob, into a ball of rippling gold, and suffused her young cheeks with a glow that rudely intensified her natural colour.

She was the coxswain's bride elect, and up to that date the course of their true love had run quite smoothly in spite of adverse proverbs... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Sea stories
Teen/Young adult

eBook links
Wikipedia – Robert Michael Ballantyne
Wikipedia – The Coxswain's Bride also, Jack Frost and Sons; and, A Double Rescue

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