Best Selling Books by Ben Ames Williams

This classic bestselling novel about a man who encounters a woman whose power to destroy is as strong as her power to love evokes Hemingway in its naturalistic portrayal of elemental forces in both nature and humanity. Ellen''s beauty was radiant, and Harland had been so struck with her personality and the strength of her character that he knew he could never leave her. When he found that she returned his adoration, he could marry her with joy, bothered just momentarily by a strange premonition. It was only later, when the premonition became a horrifying reality, that he realized the glowing loveliness of the woman he had married was the true face of evil.

In "The Sea Bride," Ben Ames Williams crafts a poignant narrative that delves into the complexities of love, longing, and the inexorable pull of the ocean. Set against the backdrop of a small coastal town, Williams employs a richly descriptive literary style that captures the beauty and danger of the sea, paralleling the emotional turbulence of his characters. The novel reflects the post-war sentiments of the early 20th century, exploring themes of dislocation and the search for identity in a rapidly changing world, all while maintaining a gripping pace that draws readers into its depths. Ben Ames Williams, an author deeply influenced by his own experiences in New England and maritime lore, brings a unique perspective to his storytelling. His keen understanding of human emotions and relationships stems from a lifelong fascination with the stories of the sea and its inhabitants. This novel, written in the aftermath of World War II, encapsulates the era''s existential questions and the struggle for meaning amidst life''s uncertainties, reflecting Williams''s own search for reconciliation between personal aspiration and communal ties. I recommend "The Sea Bride" for readers who appreciate intricate character development and atmospheric storytelling. Williams invites audiences to immerse themselves in a world where the tension between the past and the present unfurls elegantly, making this book a timeless exploration of the human spirit and its connection to both land and sea.

Novel of the Civil War as told from the viewpoint of Southern aristocrats.

The story of a wicked but beautiful woman. Time - War of 1812 thru the Civil War, with Maine as it scene.

In "Evered," Ben Ames Williams crafts a poignant narrative that delves deep into the human psyche and the complexities of familial bonds. Set against the backdrop of the American landscape, the novel employs a rich, descriptive style that evokes vivid imagery and intimate character explorations. Williams'' adept use of symbolism and metaphor captures the essence of struggle, resilience, and the disparate paths individuals take in their quest for fulfillment, all of which resonate within the broader contexts of early 20th-century American literature. Ben Ames Williams, an accomplished novelist born in 1889, was a prominent figure in American literature, acclaimed for his insightful portrayals of rural life and nuanced character studies. His own experiences growing up in New England and the evolving social dynamics of his time undoubtedly influenced the thematic concerns in "Evered." The book reflects his keen observations on human relationships, often informed by his interests in psychology and sociology, providing a deep well of emotional truth and authenticity. "Evered" is a compelling read for those who appreciate intricately woven narratives that examine the trials of family life and personal ambition. Readers will find themselves captivated by Williams'' ability to evoke empathy and provoke thought, making this work a significant contribution to the canon of American literature.

''All the Brothers Were Valiant'' is a naval adventure story by Ben Ames Williams. The story follows Mark Shore, the elder brother of Joel, who was captain of a whaling schooner called the "Nathan Ross". When Mark''s ship returned to port from a trip to the Gilbert Islands, he was no longer aboard. Joel, who was working on another ship at the time, asks to be transferred to his brother''s ship for a 3-year sojourn so that he can try to locate him. The request is granted and Joel takes his brother''s place on the "Nathan Ross".

While investigating a sensational homicide, a star reporter discovers that a well-oiled murder machine is moving directly toward him and the woman he loves.

In Ben Ames Williams'' novel ''The Great Accident'', readers are immersed in a poignant portrayal of small-town life in early 20th-century America. The book elegantly captures the complexities of human relationships, morality, and societal expectations through the lens of a tragic accident that shakes the community to its core. Williams'' writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose and astute psychological insight, making the narrative both emotionally resonant and intellectually engaging. The novel''s themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the fragile nature of human existence echo timeless literary concerns, firmly situating ''The Great Accident'' within the American literary tradition of social realism and moral fiction. Williams deftly navigates the nuances of character development, ensuring that each individual in the story contributes meaningfully to the overall thematic tapestry. Readers will find themselves drawn into a world that is at once familiar and yet profoundly moving, making ''The Great Accident'' a compelling and thought-provoking read worthy of consideration.

In "Thrifty Stock, and Other Stories," Ben Ames Williams presents a compelling collection of narratives that explore the intricate workings of human nature and the complexities of American life in the early 20th century. Williams employs a blend of stark realism and subtle humor, showcasing his keen observational style and deep empathy for his characters. Each story delves into themes of thrift, value, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals navigating their socio-economic landscapes, revealing the undercurrents of class distinction and personal aspiration that resonate throughout the era''s literature. Ben Ames Williams, a prominent American author, was born in 1889 and grew up in a rural setting that steeped him in the values and challenges of small-town life. His experiences with community dynamics, coupled with an education in literature, deeply informed his writing style and thematic focus. Williams''Äôs keen insights into the human condition were enhanced by his ability to draw from personal observation, making him a notable voice in American letters during his time. I highly recommend "Thrifty Stock, and Other Stories" to readers who appreciate character-driven narratives steeped in psychological depth and social commentary. Williams''s stories not only entertain but also invite critical reflection on the values we hold dear and the choices we make in pursuit of fulfillment.

The Venturer was a proud ship, riding the South Seas'' blue waters with grace and majesty. Then beautiful Mary McAusland came aboard. One man possessed her. Another watched her with desire, and vowed to have her at any price. There was a third ... who loved her deeply but could not tell her so. As the ship sailed deeper into strange waters, passions rose to hurricane force. Then, one night, the human storm broke forth in all its fury...

"The attempt in this book has been to tell the story of the founding of a small Maine town, by ordinary people, in what was then an ordinary way. It was the way in which towns were founded from the Atlantic seaboard west to the great plains, by stripping off the forest and putting the land to work. The people in this book were not individually as important as George Washington; the town they founded was not as important as New York. But people like them made this country, and towns like ths one were and are the soil in which this country s roots are grounded." -- quote taken from Goodreads webpage: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1405666.Come_Spring

The failures and hopes in the life of a reporter, from childhood in Boston to present day.

Miner''s son in Ohio in 1890.

Sixteen short stories with background of a Maine village.

New Orleans and Louisiana politics during the Reconstruction period, 1865-74.

Story of a successful lawyer and his motherless son, and of their loyalty to one another.