The Hills of Refuge A Novel By: Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben (1858-1919)
In "The Hills of Refuge," author Will N. Harben presents a captivating and unforgettable tale set against the backdrop of the rural South in the early 20th century. This novel exhibits Harben's masterful storytelling abilities, as he weaves together a powerful narrative that explores themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. The story revolves around the protagonist, John Mayburn, a young man burdened by a troubled past and a desire for redemption. As he embarks on a journey to find solace and purpose, he stumbles upon a small town nestled in the hills of Georgia called Refuge. It is here that he discovers a community marked by its distinct values, close-knit relationships, and an unwavering commitment to preserving their way of life. Harben's vivid descriptions transport readers straight into the heart of Refuge, immersing them in its idyllic beauty and charm. Through his skilful use of language, he creates a vivid sense of place, evoking the lush landscapes, the serenity of the hills, and the tension between tradition and progress. The author's meticulous attention to detail brings the characters and their surroundings to life, making them feel wholly authentic and relatable. One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its compelling cast of characters. Harben paints them with a rich palette, infusing them with depth, complexities, and engaging backstories. From the strong-willed matriarch Sarah Bellum to the enigmatic figure of Boyd Carruthers, each character resonates with readers, drawing them into their struggles, triumphs, and moral dilemmas. Their interactions and development throughout the story form the emotional backbone of the novel, allowing readers to connect with their experiences on a profoundly human level. The novel's exploration of various societal issues adds a layer of substance to the narrative. Harben delves into themes of class divisions, racial tensions, and gender roles, providing a nuanced commentary on the South's cultural fabric during that era. Through the eyes of his characters, the author offers insightful reflections on the injustices faced by different social groups and examines the impact of these issues on their lives and relationships. Harben's prose style is elegant and eloquent, capturing the beauty of the landscape and the depth of human emotion with equal finesse. His vivid imagery and lyrical language draw readers into the story, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and emotions of Refuge. Though at times the pacing may lag, the author compensates with rich characterization and poignant insights that keep readers invested in the unfolding plot. Ultimately, "The Hills of Refuge" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that delves into the complexities of human nature and the power of community. Harben's remarkable storytelling skills shine through, making this book a compelling read for anyone seeking a poignant and immersive literary experience. First Page: The HILLS OF REFUGE A NOVEL BY WILL N. HARBEN AUTHOR OF "ANN BOYD," "ABNER DANIEL," "THE TRIUMPH," ETC. HARPER & BROTHERS PUBLISHERS NEW YORK AND LONDON [Illustration: AS SHE NEARED HER HOME THE SUN'S RAYS WERE DYING OUT OF THE LANDSCAPE AND THE DUSK WAS GATHERING] THE HILLS OF REFUGE PART I CHAPTER I The house, a three story red brick residence, was on Walnut Street, near Beacon. Its narrow front faced the state Capitol with its gold sheeted dome; from its stoop one could look down on the Common and, from the corner of the street, see the Public Gardens. It was a Sunday morning and the Browne family were at breakfast in the dining room in the rear of the first floor, just back of the drawing room. The two rooms were separated by folding doors painted white, as was the wainscoting of the dining room. There was a wide bay window at the end, the sashes of which were up, and the spring air and sunshine came in, feeding the plants which stood in pots on the sill. William Browne, the head of the family, a banker of middle age, slender, sallow of complexion, partially bald, and of a nervous temperament, his mustache and hair touched with gray, sat reading the Transcript of the evening before... Continue reading book >>

The Hills of Refuge A Novel By: Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben (1858-1919)

In "The Hills of Refuge," author Will N. Harben presents a captivating and unforgettable tale set against the backdrop of the rural South in the early 20th century. This novel exhibits Harben's masterful storytelling abilities, as he weaves together a powerful narrative that explores themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The story revolves around the protagonist, John Mayburn, a young man burdened by a troubled past and a desire for redemption. As he embarks on a journey to find solace and purpose, he stumbles upon a small town nestled in the hills of Georgia called Refuge. It is here that he discovers a community marked by its distinct values, close-knit relationships, and an unwavering commitment to preserving their way of life.

Harben's vivid descriptions transport readers straight into the heart of Refuge, immersing them in its idyllic beauty and charm. Through his skilful use of language, he creates a vivid sense of place, evoking the lush landscapes, the serenity of the hills, and the tension between tradition and progress. The author's meticulous attention to detail brings the characters and their surroundings to life, making them feel wholly authentic and relatable.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its compelling cast of characters. Harben paints them with a rich palette, infusing them with depth, complexities, and engaging backstories. From the strong-willed matriarch Sarah Bellum to the enigmatic figure of Boyd Carruthers, each character resonates with readers, drawing them into their struggles, triumphs, and moral dilemmas. Their interactions and development throughout the story form the emotional backbone of the novel, allowing readers to connect with their experiences on a profoundly human level.

The novel's exploration of various societal issues adds a layer of substance to the narrative. Harben delves into themes of class divisions, racial tensions, and gender roles, providing a nuanced commentary on the South's cultural fabric during that era. Through the eyes of his characters, the author offers insightful reflections on the injustices faced by different social groups and examines the impact of these issues on their lives and relationships.

Harben's prose style is elegant and eloquent, capturing the beauty of the landscape and the depth of human emotion with equal finesse. His vivid imagery and lyrical language draw readers into the story, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and emotions of Refuge. Though at times the pacing may lag, the author compensates with rich characterization and poignant insights that keep readers invested in the unfolding plot.

Ultimately, "The Hills of Refuge" is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that delves into the complexities of human nature and the power of community. Harben's remarkable storytelling skills shine through, making this book a compelling read for anyone seeking a poignant and immersive literary experience.

First Page:

The HILLS OF REFUGE

A NOVEL

BY WILL N. HARBEN

AUTHOR OF "ANN BOYD," "ABNER DANIEL," "THE TRIUMPH," ETC.

HARPER & BROTHERS PUBLISHERS NEW YORK AND LONDON

[Illustration: AS SHE NEARED HER HOME THE SUN'S RAYS WERE DYING OUT OF THE LANDSCAPE AND THE DUSK WAS GATHERING]

THE HILLS OF REFUGE

PART I

CHAPTER I

The house, a three story red brick residence, was on Walnut Street, near Beacon. Its narrow front faced the state Capitol with its gold sheeted dome; from its stoop one could look down on the Common and, from the corner of the street, see the Public Gardens. It was a Sunday morning and the Browne family were at breakfast in the dining room in the rear of the first floor, just back of the drawing room. The two rooms were separated by folding doors painted white, as was the wainscoting of the dining room. There was a wide bay window at the end, the sashes of which were up, and the spring air and sunshine came in, feeding the plants which stood in pots on the sill.

William Browne, the head of the family, a banker of middle age, slender, sallow of complexion, partially bald, and of a nervous temperament, his mustache and hair touched with gray, sat reading the Transcript of the evening before... Continue reading book >>

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