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Short Cruises   By: (1863-1943)

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Short Cruises by W.W. Jacobs is a collection of captivating short stories that truly transport the reader into the world of adventure, wit, and suspense. This compilation showcases Jacobs' exceptional storytelling ability, demonstrating why he remains a prominent figure in the world of English literature.

One of the striking aspects of Short Cruises is Jacobs' remarkable knack for crafting richly detailed characters. Each story introduces a unique set of individuals, ranging from cunning sea captains to mischievous sailors, all with their own idiosyncrasies that add authenticity and depth to the narratives. Whether it's the grumpy old sailor or the misfortunate passenger, readers will find themselves easily immersed in their lives, experiencing the joys and tribulations alongside them.

Furthermore, the author's mastery of language is evident throughout the book. Jacobs effortlessly captures the essence of life at sea, using vivid descriptions to create a palpable atmosphere. From the misty ocean waves crashing against a ship's bow to the salty breeze that permeates the air, every detail is meticulously articulated, transporting readers directly to the heart of each story.

What truly sets Short Cruises apart, however, is Jacobs' talent for weaving suspense and surprise into his tales. With every turn of the page, readers are kept on their toes, eagerly awaiting the unexpected twists that await them. Each plot is carefully constructed, enticing the reader with a blend of humor, mystery, and occasional eerie undertones. The author's ability to seamlessly shift between genres, from lighthearted comedy to spine-chilling suspense, ensures that there is something for every reader in this collection.

While Short Cruises is a captivating read, there are instances where certain stories fall slightly short of expectations. Some narratives feel rushed, leaving readers craving a deeper exploration of the characters or the world they inhabit. Additionally, a few stories seem to lack the same level of engagement and originality found in the stronger ones, making them feel slightly forgettable amidst the brilliance of others.

Nevertheless, these minor shortcomings do little to detract from the overall brilliance of Short Cruises. W.W. Jacobs proves himself once again as a masterful storyteller, igniting the reader's imagination with his vivid prose and thrilling narratives. This collection of short stories is an absolute delight, offering a taste of adventure, humor, and intrigue that will leave readers yearning for more. Whether you're a fan of the sea or simply appreciate exceptional storytelling, Short Cruises is a must-read that will undoubtedly captivate you from beginning to end.

First Page:

SHORT CRUISES

W. W. JACOBS

1906

CONTENTS:

THE CHANGELING

MIXED RELATIONS

HIS LORDSHIP

ALF'S DREAM

A DISTANT RELATIVE

THE TEST

IN THE FAMILY

A LOVE KNOT

THE DREAMER

ANGELS' VISITS

THE CHANGELING

MR. GEORGE HENSHAW let himself in at the front door, and stood for some time wiping his boots on the mat The little house was ominously still, and a faint feeling, only partially due to the lapse of time since breakfast, manifested itself behind his waistcoat. He coughed a matter of fact cough and, with an attempt to hum a tune, hung his hat on the peg and entered the kitchen.

Mrs. Henshaw had just finished dinner. The neatly cleaned bone of a chop was on a plate by her side; a small dish which had contained a rice pudding was empty; and the only food left on the table was a small rind of cheese and a piece of stale bread. Mr. Henshaw's face fell, but he drew his chair up to the table and waited.

His wife regarded him with a fixed and offensive stare. Her face was red and her eyes were blazing. It was hard to ignore her gaze; harder still to meet it. Mr. Henshaw, steering a middle course, allowed his eyes to wander round the room and to dwell, for the fraction of a second, on her angry face.

"You've had dinner early?" he said at last, in a trembling voice... Continue reading book >>




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