The Candidate A Political Romance   By: Joseph Alexander Altsheler (1862-1919)

"The Candidate: A Political Romance" by Joseph Alexander Altsheler is a captivating story set in the political arena that succinctly blends elements of romance, suspense, and social commentary. Altsheler's novel delves into the tumultuous journey of a fictional candidate, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the machinations of politics.

The novel follows the life of the audacious and determined protagonist, whose goal is to secure a coveted political office. Altsheler skillfully outlines the protagonist's struggles, showcasing the sacrifices made, the ethical dilemmas faced, and the personal toll taken throughout a demanding campaign trail. By skillfully intertwining romance into the narrative, the author ensures that the story never becomes too heavy-handed, allowing readers an emotional connection and a glimpse into the protagonist's vulnerabilities.

One of the book's strongest features is its intricate portrayal of the political landscape. Altsheler excels in capturing the political process, providing a wealth of detail on campaign strategies, public image management, and the power dynamics at play. This attention to detail creates a realistic backdrop and enhances the reader's understanding of the protagonist's uphill battle and the obstacles they encounter. The author's exploration of the intricate politics and its influence on personal relationships adds depth to the story, shedding light on the less-discussed ramifications of power pursuits.

Altsheler's writing style is clean, concise, and engaging. The pacing is near-perfect, with a steady progression that keeps readers invested throughout. Each chapter presents new challenges and unexpected twists, ensuring a balance between character development and advancing the plot.

Furthermore, "The Candidate" provides thought-provoking social commentary on the state of politics and the potential consequences of ambition. Altsheler prompts readers to consider the moral compromises often made in the quest for power, ultimately examining deeper themes of integrity, loyalty, and the impact of personal choices on oneself and others.

The novel does have minor drawbacks. Some secondary characters are less developed, occasionally feeling more like narrative tools than fully fleshed-out individuals. Furthermore, the romantic subplot, while adding an interesting dimension, occasionally feels overshadowed by the political drama. However, these minor flaws do not detract significantly from the overall reading experience.

In conclusion, "The Candidate: A Political Romance" is a well-crafted and engaging novel that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of politics, wrapped in a captivating romance. Altsheler's skillful storytelling and astute social commentary make this book a worthwhile read for those intrigued by the complexities of political campaigns and the dilemmas faced by those pursuing power.

First Page:

He paused a moment, with his hand on the door, and, looking out upon the hall with its multitude of hot, excited faces, ran quickly over the events of the last three or four days. Ten thousand people had sat there, hour after hour, waiting for the result, and now the result had come. The rival parties had entered their conventions, full of doubt and apprehension. There was a singular dearth of great men; the old ones were all dead or disabled, and the new ones had not appeared; the nation was conscious, too, of a new feeling, and all were bound to recognize it; the sense of dependency upon the Old World in certain matters which applied to the mental state rather than anything material was almost gone; the democracy had grown more democratic and the republic was more republican; within the nation itself the West was taking a greater prominence, and the East did not begrudge it... Continue reading book >>