From the Car Behind

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

27337

Title

From the Car Behind

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A spirited tale of racing, redemption, and romance, "From the Car Behind" follows the dramatic collision between professional driver Allan Gerard and amateur Corrie Rose. As rumors of Corrie's involvement in a fatal accident spread, his wealthy father banishes him from the sport. Gerard defies convention by taking the disgraced young man under his wing, transforming a reckless amateur into a professional champion while navigating family tensions and a blossoming friendship.

Summary up to 500 words

Set against the vibrant backdrop of early 20th-century motor racing, Eleanor M. Ingram's *From the Car Behind* explores themes of redemption, professional discipline, and the enduring bonds of friendship. The narrative centers on Allan Gerard, a renowned driver and factory owner known for his quiet competence and Hellenic grace, and Corrie Rose, a talented but reckless amateur whose career is abruptly ended by a fatal crash. Following the accident, Corrie's father, Mr. Rose, sends the young man into seclusion to protect his reputation, effectively cutting him off from the racing world. However, Corrie's sister, Flavia, and Gerard remain loyal to the fallen driver. Gerard secretly recruits Corrie to work at his factory, aiming to clear his name and restore his confidence. The story delves into the stark contrast between the reckless passion of amateur racers and the calculated discipline of professionals. As Corrie trains, he must overcome his own fears and the skepticism of the racing community, which often mocks him as a "kid amateur" or a "rosebud." Alongside this central arc, the novel weaves a subplot involving Gerard's past and his complex relationships, including a mysterious woman named Isabel, adding depth to the protagonist's character. Through Gerard's mentorship, Corrie evolves from a naive enthusiast into a respected professional, learning humility and responsibility. The narrative builds toward a climax where Corrie's skills are rigorously tested on the track, proving his worthiness to return to the sport. The book concludes with a resolution that emphasizes the value of second chances. Ultimately, *From the Car Behind* is a tale of how forgiveness and genuine friendship can heal the deepest wounds, transforming a broken reputation into a legacy of honor and skill.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg27337.epub

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Categories

• Fiction
• Automobile racing