Overland By: John William De Forest (1826-1906)
Overland by John William De Forest is a literary gem that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the American West during the 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the California Gold Rush, this novel captures the essence of adventure, romance, and the pursuit of dreams. De Forest's writing style is remarkable, seamlessly blending vivid descriptions with a keen understanding of human nature. The story follows the lives of a group of diverse characters as they embark on a treacherous journey across the continent, facing numerous challenges along the way. One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the depth and complexity of its characters. De Forest masterfully creates a cast of individuals with distinct personalities and motivations. From the restless dreamer to the hardened pioneer, each character is carefully crafted and evolves throughout the narrative. This allows readers to form a deep connection with them, making their triumphs and failures all the more impactful. Furthermore, De Forest's portrayal of the American West is both evocative and historically rich. The harsh realities of life on the frontier are authentically depicted, showcasing the dangers, struggles, and triumphs of those who sought their fortune in this untamed land. The author's meticulous attention to detail paints a vivid picture of the landscapes, towns, and people encountered along the journey, further immersing readers into the narrative. In addition to its compelling characters and vivid setting, Overland also explores significant themes that resonate with readers today. The novel delves into the complexities of human ambition, the pursuit of happiness, and the sacrifices one must make in order to attain their desires. It tackles questions of identity, morality, and the price of progress, all while maintaining a captivating storyline. However, one minor flaw in this otherwise excellent novel is the occasional pacing issues. At times, the narrative slows down, focusing extensively on certain events or characters, which may test the patience of some readers. Nevertheless, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story. Overall, Overland by John William De Forest is a captivating and thought-provoking novel. Its engaging characters, vivid setting, and exploration of timeless themes make it a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the American West or simply in search of a riveting adventure. De Forest's exceptional writing style and storytelling prowess make this book a true standout in the realm of historical fiction. First Page: OVERLAND. A Novel By J. W. DE FOREST, Author of "Kate Beaumont," "Miss Ravenel's Conversion," &c. 1871 CHAPTER I. In those days, Santa Fé, New Mexico, was an undergrown, decrepit, out at elbows ancient hidalgo of a town, with not a scintillation of prosperity or grandeur about it, except the name of capital. It was two hundred and seventy years old; and it had less than five thousand inhabitants. It was the metropolis of a vast extent of country, not destitute of natural wealth; and it consisted of a few narrow, irregular streets, lined by one story houses built of sun baked bricks. Owing to the fine climate, it was difficult to die there; but owing to many things not fine, it was almost equally difficult to live. Even the fact that Santa Fé had been for a period under the fostering wings of the American eagle did not make it grow much. Westward ho emigrants halted there to refit and buy cattle and provisions; but always started resolutely on again, westward hoing across the continent. Nobody seemed to want to stay in Santa Fé, except the aforesaid less than five thousand inhabitants, who were able to endure the place because they had never seen any other, and who had become a part of its gray, dirty, lazy lifelessness and despondency. For a wonder, this old atom of a metropolis had lately had an increase of population, which was nearly as great a wonder as Sarah having a son when she was "well stricken in years... Continue reading book >>

Overland By: John William De Forest (1826-1906)

Overland by John William De Forest is a literary gem that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the American West during the 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the California Gold Rush, this novel captures the essence of adventure, romance, and the pursuit of dreams.

De Forest's writing style is remarkable, seamlessly blending vivid descriptions with a keen understanding of human nature. The story follows the lives of a group of diverse characters as they embark on a treacherous journey across the continent, facing numerous challenges along the way.

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the depth and complexity of its characters. De Forest masterfully creates a cast of individuals with distinct personalities and motivations. From the restless dreamer to the hardened pioneer, each character is carefully crafted and evolves throughout the narrative. This allows readers to form a deep connection with them, making their triumphs and failures all the more impactful.

Furthermore, De Forest's portrayal of the American West is both evocative and historically rich. The harsh realities of life on the frontier are authentically depicted, showcasing the dangers, struggles, and triumphs of those who sought their fortune in this untamed land. The author's meticulous attention to detail paints a vivid picture of the landscapes, towns, and people encountered along the journey, further immersing readers into the narrative.

In addition to its compelling characters and vivid setting, Overland also explores significant themes that resonate with readers today. The novel delves into the complexities of human ambition, the pursuit of happiness, and the sacrifices one must make in order to attain their desires. It tackles questions of identity, morality, and the price of progress, all while maintaining a captivating storyline.

However, one minor flaw in this otherwise excellent novel is the occasional pacing issues. At times, the narrative slows down, focusing extensively on certain events or characters, which may test the patience of some readers. Nevertheless, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.

Overall, Overland by John William De Forest is a captivating and thought-provoking novel. Its engaging characters, vivid setting, and exploration of timeless themes make it a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the American West or simply in search of a riveting adventure. De Forest's exceptional writing style and storytelling prowess make this book a true standout in the realm of historical fiction.

First Page:

OVERLAND.

A Novel

J. W. DE FOREST,

Author of "Kate Beaumont," "Miss Ravenel's Conversion," &c.

1871

CHAPTER I.

In those days, Santa Fé, New Mexico, was an undergrown, decrepit, out at elbows ancient hidalgo of a town, with not a scintillation of prosperity or grandeur about it, except the name of capital.

It was two hundred and seventy years old; and it had less than five thousand inhabitants. It was the metropolis of a vast extent of country, not destitute of natural wealth; and it consisted of a few narrow, irregular streets, lined by one story houses built of sun baked bricks. Owing to the fine climate, it was difficult to die there; but owing to many things not fine, it was almost equally difficult to live.

Even the fact that Santa Fé had been for a period under the fostering wings of the American eagle did not make it grow much. Westward ho emigrants halted there to refit and buy cattle and provisions; but always started resolutely on again, westward hoing across the continent. Nobody seemed to want to stay in Santa Fé, except the aforesaid less than five thousand inhabitants, who were able to endure the place because they had never seen any other, and who had become a part of its gray, dirty, lazy lifelessness and despondency.

For a wonder, this old atom of a metropolis had lately had an increase of population, which was nearly as great a wonder as Sarah having a son when she was "well stricken in years... Continue reading book >>

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