Novel 188: William J. Locke, The Usurper (1901)
A millionaire philanthropist is haunted by one long-ago act of dishonesty.
William J. Locke (1863-1930) wrote some 40 novels, several successful plays, and a great many short stories. This novel is particularly good at representing the main characters’ mutual misperceptions.
“Character and plot are most ingeniously wrought and the conclusion, when it comes, is fully satisfying.” Spectator, December 7, 1901
“The plot is fresh and ingenious, and it is worked out with a simple directness of style, a resourcefulness of detail, and a fine idealism . . . uncommon enough.” Bookman, January, 1902
Download this week’s novel: