Ranson's Folly By: Richard Harding Davis (1864-1916)
Ranson's Folly by Richard Harding Davis is an engaging novel that combines elements of romance, comedy, and adventure to create a captivating story set in the early 1900s. The author's vivid descriptions and lively writing style transport the reader to a time of high society and grand adventures. The novel follows the protagonist, Ranson, a wealthy and impulsive young man who decides to build a lavish mansion as a tribute to his love for a woman who rejected him. The construction of this extravagant house, or "Ranson's Folly," becomes a spectacle that attracts attention from both the wealthy elite and the working class. Despite its initial focus on Ranson's infatuation, the story takes an unexpected turn when he becomes embroiled in a plot to kidnap a young heiress. This twist adds an element of suspense and danger to the narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Davis's portrayal of the characters is one of the novel's strengths. Ranson's charismatic yet flawed personality makes him a relatable and intriguing protagonist. The supporting cast, including Ranson's loyal friends and the cunning villains, adds depth and contributes to the book's overall entertainment value. The author's witty dialogue and humorous situations elevate the reading experience, making it not just a thrilling adventure, but also a delightful comedy. The sharp banter between characters creates a light and enjoyable atmosphere, providing comic relief amidst the more intense moments of the story. Additionally, Davis's ability to vividly depict the opulence and grandeur of high society during that era is impressive. The descriptions of extravagant parties and luxurious settings immerse the reader in a world of wealth and privilege, making it easy to visualize and become fully engrossed in the story. However, one aspect that may be a drawback for some readers is the novel's occasional disregard for realism. Certain plot developments and character decisions may feel a bit far-fetched or conveniently resolved, pushing the bounds of believability. Despite this, the charm and excitement of the story compensate for any minor lapses in plausibility. Overall, Ranson's Folly is an entertaining and well-crafted novel that successfully combines romance, comedy, and adventure. Richard Harding Davis's engaging writing style and skillful character development make this a compelling read for those seeking an exciting escape into a bygone era. First Page: This eBook was produced by Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. RANSON'S FOLLY BY RICHARD HARDING DAVIS WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY Frederic Remington, Walter Appleton Clark, Howard Chandler Christy, E.M. Ashe & F. Dorr Steele CONTENTS RANSOM'S FOLLY Illustrated by Frederic Remington. THE BAR SINISTER Illustrated by E.M. Ashe. A DERELICT Illustrated by Walter Appleton Clark. LA LETTRE D'AMOUR Illustrated by Howard Chandler Christy. IN THE FOG Illustrated by Frederic Dorr Steele. ILLUSTRATIONS "Throw up your hands," he commanded. Ranson faced the door, spinning the revolver around his fourth finger. "I suppose I'm the ugliest bull dog in America". "Miss Dorothy snatches me up and kisses me between the ears." "We've got a great story! We want a clear wire." He played to the empty chair. The men around the table turned and glanced toward the gentleman in front of the fireplace. "What was the object of your plot?" RANSON'S FOLLY PART I The junior officers of Fort Crockett had organized a mess at the post trader's. "And a mess it certainly is," said Lieutenant Ranson. The dining table stood between hogsheads of molasses and a blazing log fire, the counter of the store was their buffet, a pool table with a cloth, blotted like a map of the Great Lakes, their sideboard, and Indian Pete acted as butler... Continue reading book >>

Ranson's Folly By: Richard Harding Davis (1864-1916)

Ranson's Folly by Richard Harding Davis is an engaging novel that combines elements of romance, comedy, and adventure to create a captivating story set in the early 1900s. The author's vivid descriptions and lively writing style transport the reader to a time of high society and grand adventures.

The novel follows the protagonist, Ranson, a wealthy and impulsive young man who decides to build a lavish mansion as a tribute to his love for a woman who rejected him. The construction of this extravagant house, or "Ranson's Folly," becomes a spectacle that attracts attention from both the wealthy elite and the working class.

Despite its initial focus on Ranson's infatuation, the story takes an unexpected turn when he becomes embroiled in a plot to kidnap a young heiress. This twist adds an element of suspense and danger to the narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

Davis's portrayal of the characters is one of the novel's strengths. Ranson's charismatic yet flawed personality makes him a relatable and intriguing protagonist. The supporting cast, including Ranson's loyal friends and the cunning villains, adds depth and contributes to the book's overall entertainment value.

The author's witty dialogue and humorous situations elevate the reading experience, making it not just a thrilling adventure, but also a delightful comedy. The sharp banter between characters creates a light and enjoyable atmosphere, providing comic relief amidst the more intense moments of the story.

Additionally, Davis's ability to vividly depict the opulence and grandeur of high society during that era is impressive. The descriptions of extravagant parties and luxurious settings immerse the reader in a world of wealth and privilege, making it easy to visualize and become fully engrossed in the story.

However, one aspect that may be a drawback for some readers is the novel's occasional disregard for realism. Certain plot developments and character decisions may feel a bit far-fetched or conveniently resolved, pushing the bounds of believability. Despite this, the charm and excitement of the story compensate for any minor lapses in plausibility.

Overall, Ranson's Folly is an entertaining and well-crafted novel that successfully combines romance, comedy, and adventure. Richard Harding Davis's engaging writing style and skillful character development make this a compelling read for those seeking an exciting escape into a bygone era.

First Page:

This eBook was produced by Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team.

RANSON'S FOLLY

RICHARD HARDING DAVIS

WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY

Frederic Remington, Walter Appleton Clark, Howard Chandler Christy, E.M. Ashe & F. Dorr Steele

CONTENTS

RANSOM'S FOLLY Illustrated by Frederic Remington.

THE BAR SINISTER Illustrated by E.M. Ashe.

A DERELICT Illustrated by Walter Appleton Clark.

LA LETTRE D'AMOUR Illustrated by Howard Chandler Christy.

IN THE FOG Illustrated by Frederic Dorr Steele.

ILLUSTRATIONS

"Throw up your hands," he commanded.

Ranson faced the door, spinning the revolver around his fourth finger.

"I suppose I'm the ugliest bull dog in America".

"Miss Dorothy snatches me up and kisses me between the ears."

"We've got a great story! We want a clear wire."

He played to the empty chair.

The men around the table turned and glanced toward the gentleman in front of the fireplace.

"What was the object of your plot?"

RANSON'S FOLLY

PART I

The junior officers of Fort Crockett had organized a mess at the post trader's. "And a mess it certainly is," said Lieutenant Ranson. The dining table stood between hogsheads of molasses and a blazing log fire, the counter of the store was their buffet, a pool table with a cloth, blotted like a map of the Great Lakes, their sideboard, and Indian Pete acted as butler... Continue reading book >>

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