Half a Rogue By: Harold MacGrath (1871-1932)
Half a Rogue by Harold MacGrath is a captivating and thrilling tale that takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the world of espionage and adventure. Set in the early 1900s, the novel introduces us to the protagonist, Derry Drake, a charming and audacious secret agent with a hidden agenda. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world, with political tensions escalating and secret organizations vying for power. MacGrath skillfully weaves together a web of intrigue, betrayal, and redemption, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout. Derry Drake's character is brilliantly crafted, showcasing a complex mix of courage, cunning, and compassion. As he navigates the treacherous world of espionage, Drake finds himself torn between his loyalty to his country and his personal desires. This inner conflict adds depth and emotional resonance to the story, bringing the character to life in a remarkable way. The supporting cast is equally compelling, with each character adding their own layer of complexity to the narrative. From the enigmatic femme fatale to the ruthless antagonist, the diverse personalities and motivations add depth and suspense to the overall plot. MacGrath's writing style is elegant and immersive, transporting readers to different locations across the globe with vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail. The pacing of the novel is perfectly balanced, alternating between heart-stopping action sequences and moments of quiet introspection, allowing readers to catch their breath and absorb the intricacies of the story. One of the book's highlights is its exploration of the gray area between right and wrong, good and evil. MacGrath skillfully delves into the complexities of morality and the blurred lines that often exist in the world of espionage. This theme adds depth to the story, challenging readers to question their own perceptions of loyalty, justice, and sacrifice. Half a Rogue is a riveting and thought-provoking novel that seamlessly blends elements of action, romance, and espionage. Harold MacGrath's masterful storytelling and engaging characters make this book a must-read for fans of historical fiction and adventure. With its thrilling plot twists and dynamic narrative, Half a Rogue is sure to keep readers captivated until the very last page. First Page: Half A Rogue By Harold MacGrath To The Memory Of My Mother Half A Rogue Chapter I It was Warrington's invariable habit when no business or social engagement pressed him to go elsewhere to drop into a certain quaint little restaurant just off Broadway for his dinners. It was out of the way; the throb and rattle of the great commercial artery became like the far off murmur of the sea, restful rather than annoying. He always made it a point to dine alone, undisturbed. The proprietor nor his silent footed waiters had the slightest idea who Warrington was. To them he was simply a profitable customer who signified that he dined there in order to be alone. His table was up stairs. Below, there was always the usual dinner crowd till theater time; and the music had the faculty of luring his thoughts astray, being, as he was, fonder of music than of work. As a matter of fact, it was in this little restaurant that he winnowed the day's ideas, revamped scenes, trimmed the rough edges of his climaxes, revised this epigram or rejected this or that line; all on the backs of envelopes and on the margins of newspapers. In his den at his bachelor apartments, he worked; but here he dreamed, usually behind the soothing, opalescent veil of Madame Nicotine. What a marvelous thing a good after dinner cigar is! In the smoke of it the poor man sees his ships come in, the poet sees his muse beckoning with hands full of largess, the millionaire reverts to his early struggles, and the lover sees his divinity in a thousand graceful poses... Continue reading book >>

Half a Rogue By: Harold MacGrath (1871-1932)

Half a Rogue by Harold MacGrath is a captivating and thrilling tale that takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the world of espionage and adventure. Set in the early 1900s, the novel introduces us to the protagonist, Derry Drake, a charming and audacious secret agent with a hidden agenda.

The story unfolds against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world, with political tensions escalating and secret organizations vying for power. MacGrath skillfully weaves together a web of intrigue, betrayal, and redemption, keeping readers on the edge of their seats throughout.

Derry Drake's character is brilliantly crafted, showcasing a complex mix of courage, cunning, and compassion. As he navigates the treacherous world of espionage, Drake finds himself torn between his loyalty to his country and his personal desires. This inner conflict adds depth and emotional resonance to the story, bringing the character to life in a remarkable way.

The supporting cast is equally compelling, with each character adding their own layer of complexity to the narrative. From the enigmatic femme fatale to the ruthless antagonist, the diverse personalities and motivations add depth and suspense to the overall plot.

MacGrath's writing style is elegant and immersive, transporting readers to different locations across the globe with vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail. The pacing of the novel is perfectly balanced, alternating between heart-stopping action sequences and moments of quiet introspection, allowing readers to catch their breath and absorb the intricacies of the story.

One of the book's highlights is its exploration of the gray area between right and wrong, good and evil. MacGrath skillfully delves into the complexities of morality and the blurred lines that often exist in the world of espionage. This theme adds depth to the story, challenging readers to question their own perceptions of loyalty, justice, and sacrifice.

Half a Rogue is a riveting and thought-provoking novel that seamlessly blends elements of action, romance, and espionage. Harold MacGrath's masterful storytelling and engaging characters make this book a must-read for fans of historical fiction and adventure. With its thrilling plot twists and dynamic narrative, Half a Rogue is sure to keep readers captivated until the very last page.

First Page:

Half A Rogue

Harold MacGrath

To The Memory Of My Mother

Half A Rogue

Chapter I

It was Warrington's invariable habit when no business or social engagement pressed him to go elsewhere to drop into a certain quaint little restaurant just off Broadway for his dinners. It was out of the way; the throb and rattle of the great commercial artery became like the far off murmur of the sea, restful rather than annoying. He always made it a point to dine alone, undisturbed. The proprietor nor his silent footed waiters had the slightest idea who Warrington was. To them he was simply a profitable customer who signified that he dined there in order to be alone. His table was up stairs. Below, there was always the usual dinner crowd till theater time; and the music had the faculty of luring his thoughts astray, being, as he was, fonder of music than of work. As a matter of fact, it was in this little restaurant that he winnowed the day's ideas, revamped scenes, trimmed the rough edges of his climaxes, revised this epigram or rejected this or that line; all on the backs of envelopes and on the margins of newspapers. In his den at his bachelor apartments, he worked; but here he dreamed, usually behind the soothing, opalescent veil of Madame Nicotine.

What a marvelous thing a good after dinner cigar is! In the smoke of it the poor man sees his ships come in, the poet sees his muse beckoning with hands full of largess, the millionaire reverts to his early struggles, and the lover sees his divinity in a thousand graceful poses... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – Harold MacGrath
Wikipedia – Half a Rogue

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