The Gates of Chance   By: Van Tassel Sutphen (1861-1945)

The Gates of Chance by Van Tassel Sutphen is an intricately woven tale that seamlessly combines elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural. Set in the charming town of Black Harbour, the story follows the life of the protagonist, Peter Westman, a diligent young lawyer with a hidden talent for unlocking the secrets of the past.

Sutphen's writing style is both captivating and poetic, drawing readers into a world teeming with colorful characters and enigmatic events. From the very first page, the author skillfully creates an atmosphere of suspense, leaving readers eagerly turning the pages to discover what lies beyond the mysterious Gates of Chance.

The characters of The Gates of Chance are vividly portrayed, each with their unique quirks and motivations. Peter Westman is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery takes unexpected turns. Alongside him, a cast of supporting characters, such as the enigmatic Madame Sabine and the alluring Olivia Trent, add depth and complexity to the narrative.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its masterful blending of genres. As Peter delves deeper into the secrets surrounding the Gates of Chance, Sutphen seamlessly combines elements of traditional mystery, supernatural occurrences, and a touch of romance. The resulting plot twists and turns keep readers on their toes, ensuring that the story never becomes predictable.

Furthermore, Sutphen's vivid descriptions of the town of Black Harbour create a rich and immersive setting. From the cobblestone streets to the eerie mist that shrouds the Gates of Chance, every detail is meticulously crafted, allowing readers to feel as though they are wandering through the town themselves.

If there is any criticism to be made, it would be that at times the pacing seems slightly uneven. While the majority of the novel is perfectly paced, there are a few moments where certain scenes could have been condensed to maintain a more consistent rhythm.

Overall, The Gates of Chance is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will resonate with fans of mystery, romance, and supernatural fiction. Van Tassel Sutphen's exceptional storytelling and unforgettable characters make this novel an immersive and captivating journey into the unknown.

First Page:

It was one of those abnormally springlike days that New York sometimes experiences at the latter end of March, days when negligee shirts and last summer's straw hats make a sporadic appearance, and bucolic weather prophets write letters to the afternoon papers abusing the sun spots. Really, it was hot, and I was anxious to get out of the dust and glare; it would be cool at the club, and I intended dining there. The time was half past six, the height of the homeward rush hours, and, as usual, there was a jam of vehicles and pedestrians at the Fourth Avenue and Twenty third Street crossing. The subway contractors were still at work here, and the available street space was choked with their stagings and temporary footwalks... Continue reading book >>