Romance · Adventure · Fiction
One Wonderful Night: A Romance of New York by Louis Tracy — Summary, Key Ideas & Full Text
256 pages18 chapters5h 9m read3h 39m speed read✦ 10-min Big ideasFree · no account
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What is One Wonderful Night: A Romance of New York about?
A whirlwind romance in New York, where love, fate, and a murder mystery collide
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Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, 'One Wonderful Night' tells the captivating story of John Delancy Curtis, an American engineer returning home from abroad. His chance encounter with a murder and an unexpected marriage thrusts him into a whirlwind of romance and peril. As Curtis navigates the complexities of love, loyalty, and danger, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride through the city's nightlife and the intricacies of human relationships. This novel intertwines elements of suspense, comedic misunderstandings, and heartfelt connections, making it a rich tapestry of early 20th-century romance. The narrative not only explores the thrill of newfound love but also delves into the darker sides of human nature and the consequences of fate's unpredictable hand.
'One Wonderful Night' masterfully intertwines romance, suspense, and the complexities of human relationships against the dynamic backdrop of early 20th-century New York. Through Curtis's journey, readers are invited to explore themes of love, fate, and the impact of societal expectations. The novel not only entertains but also provokes thoughtful reflection on the nature of relationships and the choices that shape our lives. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder that even in the chaos of life, love can emerge as a guiding force, leading individuals toward unexpected and transformative paths.
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Skip the 256 pages · 10 key ideas · read or listen
- 1The Allure of New York City
- 2A Murder that Changes Everything
- 3Love at First Sight
- 4The Role of Fate
- 5Comedy and Misunderstandings
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Notable quotes
“There, sonny—behold the city of your dreams! Good old New York, as per schedule. . . . Gee! Ain't she great?”
“One may learn heaps of things from maps and books.”
“If it is my father, both you and I are powerless.”
A glimpse inside
The Allure of New York City
New York serves as a vibrant character in its own right, embodying both opportunity and chaos. The opening scenes capture the excitement and nostalgia that the city evoke… Read moreNew York serves as a vibrant character in its own right, embodying both opportunity and chaos. The opening scenes capture the excitement and nostalgia that the city evokes in Curtis, who returns after years abroad. His youthful companion, Howard Devar, treats the city with a casual familiarity that contrasts sharply with Curtis's romantic idealization. Their dialogue reveals how New York's skyline and energy can invoke deep emotional responses, particularly in someone who has been away for so long. This dichotomy illustrates how the city can be a place of dreams and disillusionment, setting the stage for Curtis's adventures and misadventures that follow. The portrayal of New York also reflects the era's spirit, depicting it as a melting pot where diverse lives intersect, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that are emblematic of the American Dream. The city’s vibrancy juxtaposes Curtis's internal journey, amplifying his feelings of longing and hope as he steps into a world filled with promise and peril. Show less
A Murder that Changes Everything
Curtis's discovery of a marriage license in the pocket of a murdered man catalyzes the plot, thrusting him into a tangled web of intrigue. Read moreCurtis's discovery of a marriage license in the pocket of a murdered man catalyzes the plot, thrusting him into a tangled web of intrigue. The implications of this gruesome discovery weigh heavily on him, stirring feelings of guilt and urgency as he realizes the potential impact on the victim's intended bride. He is torn between the moral obligation to inform the authorities and the intoxicating pull of a chance encounter with love. The narrative explores themes of responsibility and moral dilemmas faced when confronted with crime, showcasing Curtis's internal conflict. This moment serves as a critical turning point, illustrating how a single event can irrevocably alter the trajectory of a person's life and propel them into unforeseen circumstances. The murder not only serves as a plot device but also symbolizes the darker undercurrents of society, exposing the fragility of human existence and the sudden shifts that can lead from moments of joy to tragedy. The weight of this event is amplified as Curtis grapples with the consequences of his choices, ultimately revealing the depth of his character as he is drawn deeper into the chaos surrounding the murder. Show less
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About the author
Louis Tracy
Louis Tracy has 5 works free to read on Lumina, including Cynthia's Chauffeur, The Albert Gate Mystery: Being Further Adventures of Reginald Brett, Barrister Detective, The Silent Barrier
Cynthia's Chauffeur
The Albert Gate Mystery: Being Further Adventures of Reginald Brett, Barrister Detective
The Silent Barrier
The Strange Case of Mortimer Fenley
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Yes — the complete text of One Wonderful Night: A Romance of New York is free to read online, with no account and no ads. The 8-minute Big-ideas summary and audio narration are unlocked too