The Vast Abyss The Story of Tom Blount, his Uncles and his Cousin Sam

"The Vast Abyss" by George Manville Fenn is a late 1800s story about Tom Blount, an orphan trying to make it after his parents die from an illness. Tom is stuck living with his mean uncle and bully cousin, Sam, while also trying to study law, where he doubts himself. His uncle James Brandon is also constantly on his back, which makes Tom long for his past. But a ray of light shines when Tom receives an invitation from another uncle, Richard, who offers him a thrilling new adventure far away from his current hardships. Tom, supported by Pringle, has to prove he is good enough, amidst the day-to-day hardship and constant bullying from Sam.