The Last Galley Impressions and Tales   By: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930)

The Last Galley: Impressions and Tales by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is a collection of short stories that showcase the author's exceptional skill in crafting engaging and diverse narratives. Spanning various genres, from historical fiction to supernatural tales, Doyle masterfully takes readers on a thrilling journey through time and imagination.

One of the standout stories in this collection is "The Last Galley," which serves as both the book's prologue and finale. Set during the Napoleonic Wars, Doyle skillfully evokes a sense of tension and adventure as the protagonist, Captain Sharkey, leads his crew on a suspenseful naval chase. The story is imbued with both historical authenticity and narrative excitement, making it an excellent opening and closing to the book.

Another notable tale is "The Contest," a gripping supernatural story with an unexpected twist. This haunting narrative skillfully explores the intersection of science and spirituality and showcases Doyle's ability to blend mystery and suspense. The suspense builds steadily until the climax, leaving readers on the edge of their seats.

"The White Company" is a historical fiction story that transports readers to the medieval era, following the adventures of a group of English knights. Doyle demonstrates his meticulous attention to detail, creating a vivid and immersive world that captures the essence of the time period. The character development is superb, and the action-packed plot keeps readers engrossed until the very end.

Doyle's storytelling prowess shines in each tale presented in The Last Galley. Whether he is writing about pirates, supernatural occurrences, or historical events, his ability to captivate readers remains unparalleled. His prose is elegant, yet accessible, drawing readers into the heart of every story. The collection showcases his versatility as a writer and leaves readers craving more.

One minor criticism is that the pacing in a few stories may seem slower compared to others. While this is largely a matter of personal preference, some readers may find certain stories to be more engaging than others. However, this is merely a minor drawback in an otherwise captivating collection.

Overall, The Last Galley: Impressions and Tales is a must-read for any fan of Arthur Conan Doyle's work. With its diverse range of stories and exceptional storytelling, this collection is a testament to Doyle's mastery of the written word. Whether you are seeking a thrilling adventure, a supernatural mystery, or a historical escapade, you will find it within these pages. Doyle's skillful craftsmanship and ability to transport readers to different worlds make this collection a true gem.

First Page:

The first half is made up of a series of pictures of the past which maybe regarded as trial flights towards a larger ideal which I have long had in my mind. It has seemed to me that there is a region between actual story and actual history which has never been adequately exploited. I could imagine, for example, a work dealing with some great historical epoch, and finding its interest not in the happenings to particular individuals, their adventures and their loves, but in the fascination of the actual facts of history themselves. These facts might be coloured with the glamour which the writer of fiction can give, and fictitious characters and conversations might illustrate them; but none the less the actual drama of history and not the drama of invention should claim the attention of the reader. I have been tempted sometimes to try the effect upon a larger scale; but meanwhile these short sketches, portraying various crises in the story of the human race, are to be judged as experiments in that direction... Continue reading book >>