Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

The Trail of '98 A Northland Romance   By: (1874-1958)

Book cover

The Trail of '98 by Robert W. Service is a captivating and epic Northland romance that takes readers on a thrilling adventure through the Klondike Gold Rush. Set in the late 19th century, Service masterfully depicts the harsh and unforgiving landscape of the North, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the treacherous conditions faced by those lured by the promise of gold.

The story follows the lives of two central characters, Jack Delancy and Nellie Caspar, who find themselves caught up in the frenzy of the gold rush. Delancy, a brave and ambitious young man, embarks on a perilous journey along the famous Chilkoot Pass, enduring unimaginable hardships in search of his fortune. Alongside him, Caspar, a strong-willed and independent woman, defies societal expectations by venturing into the Klondike, determined to make her own mark.

Service's vivid descriptions and attention to detail transport readers back in time, enabling them to experience the extremes of weather, treacherous terrains, and the desperation faced by the gold prospectors. The harsh reality of life in the North, where every decision could mean life or death, is poignantly conveyed through Service's atmospheric prose.

Moreover, Service's characterization is both compelling and authentic. Delancy and Caspar, as well as the myriad of supporting characters, are multidimensional individuals who grapple with their own dreams, fears, and personal demons. Their interactions with each other and the challenges they face provide insightful and engaging commentary on the human condition.

The Trail of '98 is not merely a romance, but an exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Service eloquently delves into themes of perseverance, greed, love, and the lengths individuals are willing to go to fulfill their ambitions. Through his lyrical and passionate writing style, Service brings the Gold Rush era to life, making it impossible for readers not to be engrossed in the narrative.

While perhaps not as widely recognized as some of Service's other works, The Trail of '98 is undoubtedly a hidden gem that deserves more attention. It is a meticulously researched and expertly crafted novel that offers a captivating glimpse into one of the defining moments in North American history. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction, adventure, or romance, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

THE TRAIL OF '98

A Northland Romance

by

ROBERT W. SERVICE

Author of "The Spell of the Yukon" and "Ballads of a Cheechako"

With illustrations by Maynard Dixon

[Illustration: We were in a caldron of fire. The roar of doom was in our ears (page 143)]

New York Dodd, Mead and Company 1911

Copyright, 1910, by Dodd, Mead and Company

Entered at Stationers' Hall

The Quinn & Boden Co. Press Rahway, N. J.

PRELUDE

The north wind is keening overhead. It minds me of the howl of a wolf dog under the Arctic stars. Sitting alone by the glow of the great peat fire I can hear it high up in the braeside firs. It is the voice, inexorably scornful, of the Great White Land.

Oh, I hate it, I hate it! Why cannot a man be allowed to forget? It is near ten years since I joined the Eager Army. I have travelled: I have been a pilgrim to the shrines of beauty; I have pursued the phantom of happiness even to the ends of the earth. Still it is always the same I cannot forget.

Why should a man be ever shadowed by the vampire wing of his past? Have I not a right to be happy? Money, estate, name, are mine, all that means an open sesame to the magic door. Others go in, but I beat against its flinty portals with hands that bleed. No! I have no right to be happy. The ways of the world are open; the banquet of life is spread; the wonder workers plan their pageants of beauty and joy, and yet there is no praise in my heart... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books