The Turnstile

· Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
247
Pages
Eligible
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About this ebook

The Turnstile is a 1912 political novel by the English author A. E. W. Mason. Cynthia Daventry, the heroine of the story, grows up in Argentina as the adopted daughter of Robert and Jane Daventry, an English couple. Unable to have children themselves, they had adopted Cynthia at the age of three from a foundling hospital where she had been left by her dissolute father, James Glanville, following her mother's death in an earthquake. Cynthia is unaware of her parentage, and is horrified when on her 17th birthday her natural father arrives unannounced to claim her, intending to force her into prostitution in Buenos Aires and live off the proceeds. The Daventrys flee back to England, where they live comfortably although Cynthia never shakes off her deep-rooted fears.

About the author

A. E. W. Mason, born Alfred Edward Woodley Mason on May 7, 1865, in London, was a multifaceted English author, playwright, and politician whose life was as thrilling as his fiction. Best known for his adventure novel "The Four Feathers," Mason's work often explored themes of honor, courage, and redemption, resonating deeply with readers during the tumultuous early 20th century.Educated at Dulwich College and Trinity College, Oxford, Mason initially pursued a career in acting before turning to writing. His literary career took off with the publication of "The Courtship of Morrice Buckler" in 1896, and he continued to captivate audiences with his gripping narratives and complex characters.Mason's life was marked by a blend of literary and real-world adventures. During World War I, he served as a British intelligence officer, contributing to the war effort with his strategic acumen and even inspiring future spy novelists like Ian Fleming. His experiences in espionage lent authenticity to his later works, infusing them with a sense of realism that captivated readers.Politically active, Mason served as a Liberal Member of Parliament for Coventry from 1906 to 1910, advocating for social reforms and championing progressive causes. His political career, though brief, reflected his commitment to societal improvement and justice.Mason's influence extended beyond his lifetime, impacting contemporary writers and filmmakers. His works have been adapted into numerous films, cementing his legacy in both literature and cinema. Despite facing criticism for his sometimes conservative views, Mason's storytelling prowess and adventurous spirit continue to intrigue and inspire modern readers.

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