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The Winds of Chance   By: (1877-1949)

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In "The Winds of Chance" by Rex Ellingwood Beach, readers will find themselves transported to the vibrant and rugged landscapes of northern Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush. The novel follows protagonist Alton Clyde, a young and ambitious man from Chicago who finds himself drawn to the allure of vast riches and adventure in the remote wilderness.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its vivid and meticulous descriptions. Beach paints a stunning picture of the untamed wilderness, allowing readers to feel the chilling winds and envision the treacherous terrain as if they were right there alongside Alton. The author's attention to detail is commendable, as he expertly captures the harsh realities of living in this unforgiving environment. From the excitement of striking gold to the hardships faced in mining camps, Beach immerses readers in a world filled with both opportunity and danger.

The character development in "The Winds of Chance" is intriguing and well-paced. Alton Clyde undergoes a significant transformation throughout the narrative, evolving from a naïve and optimistic dreamer into a seasoned and pragmatic individual. His encounters with a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets, add depth to the story and keep readers engaged. The author skillfully exposes the complexities of human nature, revealing how greed, loyalty, and personal struggles can shape one's choices and destinies.

Furthermore, Beach's exploration of themes such as the pursuit of wealth, the duality of human nature, and the price of ambition enhances the novel's depth. Through Alton's journey, readers are prompted to question the true nature of success and fulfillment. The narrative seamlessly weaves these philosophical undertones into the gripping adventure, leaving readers reflecting on their own aspirations and the paths they choose to follow.

However, some readers may find that the pacing of the story could have been improved. At times, the narrative slows down, focusing heavily on the mundane and repetitive aspects of life in the wilderness. While this undoubtedly adds a layer of realism, it may cause some readers to lose interest, particularly those seeking a faster-paced adventure.

All in all, "The Winds of Chance" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel, transporting readers to a tumultuous era of history while exploring complex themes of ambition, morality, and the pursuit of wealth. Beach's rich descriptions, well-developed characters, and engrossing narrative make for an enjoyable and immersive reading experience. Although the pacing might falter at times, the novel ultimately delivers an engaging and rewarding tale that will resonate with readers long after the final page.

First Page:

This eBook was produced by Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team.

THE WINDS OF CHANCE

By REX BEACH

Author of "THE SILVER HORDE" "THE SPOILERS" "THE IRON TRAIL" Etc.

CHAPTER I

With an ostentatious flourish Mr. "Lucky" Broad placed a crisp ten dollar bill in an eager palm outstretched across his folding table.

"The gentleman wins and the gambler loses!" Mr. Broad proclaimed to the world. "The eye is quicker than the hand, and the dealer's moans is music to the stranger's ear." With practised touch he rearranged the three worn walnut shells which constituted his stock in trade. Beneath one of them he deftly concealed a pellet about the size of a five grain allopathic pill. It was the erratic behavior of this tiny ball, its mysterious comings and goings, that had summoned Mr. Broad's audience and now held its observant interest. This audience, composed of roughly dressed men, listened attentively to the seductive monologue which accompanied the dealer's deft manipulations, and was greatly entertained thereby. "Three tiny tepees in a row and a little black medicine man inside." The speaker's voice was high pitched and it carried like a "thirtythirty." "You see him walk in, you open the door, and you double your money. Awfully simple! Simpully awful! What? As I live! The gentleman wins ten more ten silver tongued song birds, ten messengers of mirth the price of a hard day's toil... Continue reading book >>




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