January 24, 2025 • 16 mins
In episode three of the Bell's Books and Blog Podcast, host Jane M. Bell explored peculiar historical tales from U.S. history. She examined the legend of a ghostly figure encountered by Thomas Jefferson in the unfinished Capitol building, the mystery of Ulysses S. Grant's inauguration blackout, and the scandal surrounding a forged invitation during Rutherford B. Hayes's swearing-in ceremony. Each story delved into the unique trials and tribulations faced by these presidents, and the mysteries which still elude historians today. Jane also introduced the thrilling psychological thriller series 'Yesteryear's Echo' and the free historical psychological thriller 'Yesteryear's Ruin'. She then shared reading recommendations for young readers and adults, including 'Mystery at Sea Edge: A Monterey Adventure', 'The Haunted Lighthouse', 'Artificial Stars', and 'Rain Shadow'. She wrapped up the episode by reminding listeners about an ongoing book promotion and encouraging them to stay curious about history's hidden mysteries.
- Jane M. Bell, Author - Website
- Email - news@janembell.com
- Yesteryear's Ruin by Jane M. Bell
- Yesteryear's Echo by Jane M. Bell
- Mystery at Sea Edge: A Monterey Adventure by J. Margaret Bell
- The Haunted Lighthouse (Tales of the Lost & Found Book 1) by Shana Gorian
- Artificial Stars by Carmen White
- Rain Shadow by Mark Jenkins
- A New beginning for a New Year Book Promo
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Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:04):
Welcome to The Bell's Books and blog podcast, The Place
where history, mystery, and suspense converge. I'm your host, author
Jane M. Bell. Today we have a fascinating lineup of
historical curiosities for you. We're going to dive into three
peculiar tales from the annals of US history. We'll explore
the mysterious figure Thomas Jefferson reportedly encountered in the unfinished
(00:25):
US Capital before his inauguration. Then we'll uncover the story
of Ulysses S. Grant's curious blackout during his second inauguration. Finally,
we'll delve into the forgery scandal that marred Rutherford B.
Hayes is swearing in ceremony. These intriguing stories remind us
that even the most significant events in history can have
their share of secrets and surprises. So sit back, relax,
(00:50):
and let's journey together into the astonishing tales that history
has hidden away. In eighteen oh one, Washington, d C.
Was a young, bustler city still taking shape. The US
Capital itself was only partially constructed, far from the grand
building we recognize today. Political strife and construction delays plagued
(01:11):
the nation, reflecting a young Republic trying to find its footing.
Amidst this backdrop. Thomas Jefferson was preparing to take office
as the third President of the United States. Known for
his keen mind and philosophical demeanor, Jefferson spent many evenings
alone in the unfinished capital, no doubt contemplating the immense
responsibility ahead. One evening, while walking through the dimly lit
(01:34):
halls of the capital, Jefferson reportedly encountered a mysterious figure.
Descriptions of this encounter vary, but all accounts agree on
one eerie detail. Jefferson was deeply unsettled by the experience.
Some described the figure as dressed in period clothing, while
others claimed it emitted an unearthly glow. The apparition vanished
(01:56):
as suddenly as it had appeared, leaving Jefferson bewildered and shaken.
The incident has sparked various interpretations over the years. Some
believe that the figure may have been a symbolic vision
representing the challenges Jefferson would face as president. The early
eighteen hundreds were fraught with difficulties, including political rivalries and
(02:16):
the task of expanding a new nation's borders. Was this
mysterious figure a manifestation of Jefferson's concerns about the future.
Others lean towards a more supernatural explanation. The idea of
a ghostly encounter isn't far fetched, considering the unfinished Capital's
eerie atmosphere and its national significance. Could it have been
(02:36):
an otherworldly visitor. Skeptics, on the other hand, argue that
Jefferson's vision may have been a product of exhaustion or stress.
The election of eighteen hundred had been bitter and contentious,
requiring a deciding vote in the House of Representatives. Perhaps
the weight of leadership and the stress of the moment
cause Jefferson's mind to play tricks on him. The story
(02:58):
of Jefferson's ghostly encounter has endured for over two centuries,
captivating historians and enthusiasts alike. It serves as a reminder
that the halls of power often hold more than just
political drama. They can also harbour secrets and mysteries that
defy explanation. Moving forward in history to March fourth, eighteen
seventy three, we find ourselves on a bitterly cold day
(03:21):
in Washington, d c. For the second inauguration of Ulysses S.
Grant as President of the United States. The temperatures had
plummeted to near record lows, with icy winds cutting through
the city and chilling the crowds gathered to witness the event.
Despite the harsh weather, the day was filled with grand
celebration plans, a parade, an elaborate inaugural address, and an
(03:44):
evening ball housed an especially constructed pavilion near the capital.
Grant's administration spared no expense in showcasing the nation's progress
during the post Civil war era. However, the celebrations took
an unexpected and unsettling turn during the evening ball. Without warning,
the lights inside the pavilion failed, plunging the entire venue
(04:05):
into complete darkness. The gas lights that were supposed to
illuminate the grand event were suddenly extinguished. Guests were left
stumbling and whispering in confusion, with speculation and rumors quickly
spreading through the crowd. In eighteen seventy three, electricity had
not yet become the standard for public buildings, making the
blackout all the more perplexing. The capital's gas lighting system
(04:28):
was considered reliable, so this sudden failure raised immediate questions.
Some attendees whispered about possible sabotage by political rivals or
disgruntled factions. Grant's presidency, marked by efforts to stabilize and
rebuild the nation during reconstruction, had certainly earned him both
admirers and adversaries. Others believed the extremely cold weather could
(04:50):
have been the culprit, potentially freezing the gas lines and
causing the lights to fail. This explanation seemed plausible, yet
it didn't stop more imaginative things from taking root among
the attendees. Despite the blackout and the confusion it caused,
President Grant remained composed. Known for his steady leadership during
the Civil War. Grant's calm demeanor during the incident reassured
(05:13):
many of his supporters. His ability to handle the unexpected
setback with grace helped to ensure that the celebrations continued,
even if they were now shrouded in dimness. This curious
blackout during Grant's second inauguration serves as a reminder of
the unpredictable nature of history and the resilience required by
those in leadership. It also highlights how even significant national
(05:37):
events can be marred by unexpected and unexplained occurrences. Now,
let's turn our attention to another fascinating and mysterious event
in US history, the case of the forged invitation during
Rutherford B. Hayes's contentious inauguration in eighteen seventy seven, Rutherford B.
Hayes's pathway to the presidency was anything but smooth. He
(05:58):
faced off against Democrats at Samuel J. Tilden in one
of the most disputed elections in American history. Allegations of
fraud and voter suppression plagued the race. Ultimately, an electoral
commission awarded Hayes the presidency in a decision that came
just two days before the planned inauguration. To avoid potential unrest,
Hayes's team decided on a private ceremony at the White
(06:20):
House on March third, a couple of days before the
public event at the Capitol. Understandably, the secrecy only added
to the tension and drama surrounding this transition of power.
As Hayes was preparing for his second, more public inauguration
on March fifth, rumors began to swirl about a forged invitation.
The counterfeit invitation was crafted with astonishing detail designed to
(06:43):
closely resemble the official documents. It bore elegant calligraphy and
intricate designs, tricking many at first glance. However, those with
a keen eye noticed subtle discrepancies in wording and layout,
which gave the forgery away. Authorities were quick to act
once they became aware of the counterfeit invitation. The incident
(07:04):
left everyone wondering who would take such a risk and why.
Various theories emerged about the motives behind this deception. One
theory suggested political sabotage. Given the intense controversy surrounding Hayes's election,
it's plausible that the forgery aimed to undermine his already
shaky legitimacy by creating confusion or chaos at the inauguration.
(07:26):
Another theory considered the possibility of a practical joke aimed
at exposing flaws in the event's security and planning. Then
there was the idea that social aspirations might have played
a role. The Gilded Age was a time of elaborate
social hierarchies, and an invitation to a presidential inauguration was
a prized symbol of status. The forgery could have been
(07:48):
an attempt by someone eager to gain entry to the
exclusive event. The impact of the forged invitation on the
inauguration day was significant. To ensure the ceremony proceeded without
further disruption, officials heightened security measures and meticulously verified the
credentials of all attendees. Though the forged invitation ultimately became
(08:08):
a mere footnote in Hayes's inauguration, it underscored the politically
charged climate of the time. The mystery of the forged
invitation remains unsolved, but it serves as a fascinating glimpse
into the heightened tensions and complexities of the Gilded Age.
It also highlights the scrutiny and suspicion that surrounded Rutherford B.
Hayes's path to the presidency. Ignorance is preferable to error,
(08:32):
and he is less remote from the truth who believes
nothing than he who believes what is wrong. These profound
words from Thomas Jefferson remind us that seeking knowledge, no
matter how daunting, is essential. We are not makers of history.
We are made by history, said Martin Luther King Junior,
encapsulating the essence of how our past shapes are present
(08:53):
in future. Such quotes encourage us to reflect on the
weight of historical events in their rippling effects. Jefferson's ghostly apparition,
Grant's blackout, and Hayes's forgery scandal are not just historical anecdotes.
They are testaments to the complexities and surprises that history holds.
As we ponder these peculiar tales, it's worth asking ourselves.
(09:15):
Could there be deeper meanings behind these events? What can
they teach us about leadership, resilience, and the ever present
shadows that accompany significant moments in history. Think about these
questions as we move forward. If you have thoughts or
theories about these historical mysteries, send me a message. History
is a tapestry woven with both known facts and lingering enigmas.
(09:37):
It's our curiosity that keeps those mysteries alive. Now, shifting
gears a bit, I want to introduce you to a
gripping psychological thriller series that intertwines the past with suspenseful mystery.
Yesteryear's Echo. This thrilling series kicks off with the protagonist Levi,
who becomes involved in the dubious world of psychotemporal displacement experiments.
(10:00):
These experiments allow subjects to relive historical moments, a premise
that alone is enough to send shivers down your spine.
The story takes a dark turn as Bower, another key character,
digs deeper into these experiments. What he uncovers is alarming,
a web of disturbing truths tied to his family's involvement,
and a sinister project known only as Case forty seven.
(10:23):
As eerie symptoms begin to manifest within his own family,
Bower is thrust into an urgent quest for truth, racing
against time to uncover the dark legacy hidden within Saint
Elizabeth's Hospital. The series masterfully blends themes of psychological tension,
family secrets, and historical significance, keeping you on the edge
of your seat. If you're a fan of intricate plot
(10:46):
lines and tantalizing mysteries, Yesteryear's Echo promises an intriguing journey
that will leave you questioning reality until the very last page.
This book series is perfect for those who enjoyed The
Silent Patient and Shutter Island. Allow yourself to dive into
this captivating story and you won't be disappointed. Go ahead
and add Yester Year's Echo to your reading list. You
(11:08):
won't regret it. Now, let's talk about something equally compelling,
yet free to all of you listening, yester Year's Ruin.
This remarkable historical psychological thriller is available for a free download,
and you won't want to miss it. Yester Year's Ruin
captures the essence of human resilience in the face of
unimaginable loss. The narrative weaves together themes of love, despair,
(11:32):
and the relentless quest for redemption. It's a moving story
that invites readers to explore the depths of human emotion
and the challenges that come with overcoming adversity. Through a
blend of historical context and gripping story telling, yester Year's
Ruin offers a captivating journey that keeps readers engaged from
start to finish. It's not just a tale of past events,
(11:55):
but a deep dive into the human spirit and the
power of hope amidst despair. For those interested in exploring
this rich narrative, you can download Yesteryear's Ruin for free.
Be sure to check the show notes for the link.
Next up, I want to introduce you to a delightful
historical mystery that's perfect for our young readers out there.
(12:15):
It's called Mystery at Sea Edge, a Monterey Adventure, and
it's aims specifically at fourth grade level readers. This captivating
story takes us on an exciting journey through time with
siblings Wick and Rindy and their cousin Less. The trio
finds themselves unraveling clues that lead them through a series
of mysterious events. It all starts with an enigmatic figure
(12:37):
appearing in the fog and a golden locket that holds
secrets waiting to be discovered. The plot is rich with
themes of adventure, personal prejudices, and historical context, making it
both educational and entertaining. Young readers will be swept away
by the thrilling twists and turns as Wick, Rindy, and
Les navigate their way through these intriguing mysteries. The book
(12:59):
all so offers a wonderful opportunity for children to learn
about the history of Monterey, California as they follow along
with the character's escapades. Mystery at Sea Edge is not
just a compelling read, it's a chance for young minds
to embark on a journey that's both fun and enriching.
So if you have a young reader in your life,
I highly encourage you to get a copy and let
(13:20):
them dive into this historical adventure. They'll not only enjoy
the suspense and mystery, but also gain valuable insights into
an important period of American history. Stay tuned as we
continue to uncover more fascinating stories from the past, and
remember history is filled with surprises and lessons waiting to
be discovered. Now it's time for some reading recommendations to
(13:44):
add to your list. First up is The Haunted Lighthouse
by Shanagorian. This historical mystery is perfect for middle grade readers.
Imagine a thunderstorm off the coast of Maine and a
mysterious beam of light that leads three friends on a
search for answers. Their visit to a coastal harbor town
turns into an unraveling of an otherworldly tale. It's recommended
(14:05):
for ages nine to twelve and promises plenty of adventure
without graphic violence or language, making it suitable for young
mystery enthusiasts. Next, we have Artificial Stars by Carmen White.
In this science fantasy quest, artificial intelligence meets humanity in
unexpected ways. The story follows Elaine who works at a
galactic power station. When an outage results in casualties among
(14:28):
her alien neighbors, Elaine teems up with an intrusive AI
and a kind alien with death reading powers to uncover
life altering truths about the universe. It's a thrilling series
exploring creation, friendship, and the fight to save worlds. Then
there's rain Shadow by Mark Jenkins. Set in nineteen ninety nine.
The story centers on Jamie Coots, who is struggling with
(14:50):
her Silicon Valley career. After a mysterious phone call from
her sister Chloe, Jamie joins her on a backpacking journey
into the Olympic Rainforest to find their reclusive grandmother. They
face a severe storm and confront an ancient supernatural presence,
making it a gripping read for those who enjoy supernatural
and nature driven narratives. And lastly, don't forget about the
(15:12):
a New Beginning for a New Year promotion. This offer
ends soon, so make sure to get your hands on
these books before the promotion ends. Check the show notes
for more details on how to grab these exciting reads.
This wraps up another intriguing episode of The Bell's Books
and Blog podcast I'm your host, Jane M. Bell. Be
sure to check the show notes for links to all
(15:34):
the books and articles mentioned in today's episode. I always
look forward to hearing from you, so send me a
message with your thoughts, responses, or any questions you might
have about the topics we discussed. Remember history is filled
with mysteries and stories that continue to ignite our curiosity
and wonder. Keep exploring, keep questioning, and keep the past alive.
(15:56):
Until next week, Take care and happy reading. Conductor commenter, Conductor,
conductor and doctor comment
Welcome to The Bell's Books and blog podcast, The Place
where history, mystery, and suspense converge. I'm your host, author
Jane M. Bell. Today we have a fascinating lineup of
historical curiosities for you. We're going to dive into three
peculiar tales from the annals of US history. We'll explore
the mysterious figure Thomas Jefferson reportedly encountered in the unfinished
(00:25):
US Capital before his inauguration. Then we'll uncover the story
of Ulysses S. Grant's curious blackout during his second inauguration. Finally,
we'll delve into the forgery scandal that marred Rutherford B.
Hayes is swearing in ceremony. These intriguing stories remind us
that even the most significant events in history can have
their share of secrets and surprises. So sit back, relax,
(00:50):
and let's journey together into the astonishing tales that history
has hidden away. In eighteen oh one, Washington, d C.
Was a young, bustler city still taking shape. The US
Capital itself was only partially constructed, far from the grand
building we recognize today. Political strife and construction delays plagued
(01:11):
the nation, reflecting a young Republic trying to find its footing.
Amidst this backdrop. Thomas Jefferson was preparing to take office
as the third President of the United States. Known for
his keen mind and philosophical demeanor, Jefferson spent many evenings
alone in the unfinished capital, no doubt contemplating the immense
responsibility ahead. One evening, while walking through the dimly lit
(01:34):
halls of the capital, Jefferson reportedly encountered a mysterious figure.
Descriptions of this encounter vary, but all accounts agree on
one eerie detail. Jefferson was deeply unsettled by the experience.
Some described the figure as dressed in period clothing, while
others claimed it emitted an unearthly glow. The apparition vanished
(01:56):
as suddenly as it had appeared, leaving Jefferson bewildered and shaken.
The incident has sparked various interpretations over the years. Some
believe that the figure may have been a symbolic vision
representing the challenges Jefferson would face as president. The early
eighteen hundreds were fraught with difficulties, including political rivalries and
(02:16):
the task of expanding a new nation's borders. Was this
mysterious figure a manifestation of Jefferson's concerns about the future.
Others lean towards a more supernatural explanation. The idea of
a ghostly encounter isn't far fetched, considering the unfinished Capital's
eerie atmosphere and its national significance. Could it have been
(02:36):
an otherworldly visitor. Skeptics, on the other hand, argue that
Jefferson's vision may have been a product of exhaustion or stress.
The election of eighteen hundred had been bitter and contentious,
requiring a deciding vote in the House of Representatives. Perhaps
the weight of leadership and the stress of the moment
cause Jefferson's mind to play tricks on him. The story
(02:58):
of Jefferson's ghostly encounter has endured for over two centuries,
captivating historians and enthusiasts alike. It serves as a reminder
that the halls of power often hold more than just
political drama. They can also harbour secrets and mysteries that
defy explanation. Moving forward in history to March fourth, eighteen
seventy three, we find ourselves on a bitterly cold day
(03:21):
in Washington, d c. For the second inauguration of Ulysses S.
Grant as President of the United States. The temperatures had
plummeted to near record lows, with icy winds cutting through
the city and chilling the crowds gathered to witness the event.
Despite the harsh weather, the day was filled with grand
celebration plans, a parade, an elaborate inaugural address, and an
(03:44):
evening ball housed an especially constructed pavilion near the capital.
Grant's administration spared no expense in showcasing the nation's progress
during the post Civil war era. However, the celebrations took
an unexpected and unsettling turn during the evening ball. Without warning,
the lights inside the pavilion failed, plunging the entire venue
(04:05):
into complete darkness. The gas lights that were supposed to
illuminate the grand event were suddenly extinguished. Guests were left
stumbling and whispering in confusion, with speculation and rumors quickly
spreading through the crowd. In eighteen seventy three, electricity had
not yet become the standard for public buildings, making the
blackout all the more perplexing. The capital's gas lighting system
(04:28):
was considered reliable, so this sudden failure raised immediate questions.
Some attendees whispered about possible sabotage by political rivals or
disgruntled factions. Grant's presidency, marked by efforts to stabilize and
rebuild the nation during reconstruction, had certainly earned him both
admirers and adversaries. Others believed the extremely cold weather could
(04:50):
have been the culprit, potentially freezing the gas lines and
causing the lights to fail. This explanation seemed plausible, yet
it didn't stop more imaginative things from taking root among
the attendees. Despite the blackout and the confusion it caused,
President Grant remained composed. Known for his steady leadership during
the Civil War. Grant's calm demeanor during the incident reassured
(05:13):
many of his supporters. His ability to handle the unexpected
setback with grace helped to ensure that the celebrations continued,
even if they were now shrouded in dimness. This curious
blackout during Grant's second inauguration serves as a reminder of
the unpredictable nature of history and the resilience required by
those in leadership. It also highlights how even significant national
(05:37):
events can be marred by unexpected and unexplained occurrences. Now,
let's turn our attention to another fascinating and mysterious event
in US history, the case of the forged invitation during
Rutherford B. Hayes's contentious inauguration in eighteen seventy seven, Rutherford B.
Hayes's pathway to the presidency was anything but smooth. He
(05:58):
faced off against Democrats at Samuel J. Tilden in one
of the most disputed elections in American history. Allegations of
fraud and voter suppression plagued the race. Ultimately, an electoral
commission awarded Hayes the presidency in a decision that came
just two days before the planned inauguration. To avoid potential unrest,
Hayes's team decided on a private ceremony at the White
(06:20):
House on March third, a couple of days before the
public event at the Capitol. Understandably, the secrecy only added
to the tension and drama surrounding this transition of power.
As Hayes was preparing for his second, more public inauguration
on March fifth, rumors began to swirl about a forged invitation.
The counterfeit invitation was crafted with astonishing detail designed to
(06:43):
closely resemble the official documents. It bore elegant calligraphy and
intricate designs, tricking many at first glance. However, those with
a keen eye noticed subtle discrepancies in wording and layout,
which gave the forgery away. Authorities were quick to act
once they became aware of the counterfeit invitation. The incident
(07:04):
left everyone wondering who would take such a risk and why.
Various theories emerged about the motives behind this deception. One
theory suggested political sabotage. Given the intense controversy surrounding Hayes's election,
it's plausible that the forgery aimed to undermine his already
shaky legitimacy by creating confusion or chaos at the inauguration.
(07:26):
Another theory considered the possibility of a practical joke aimed
at exposing flaws in the event's security and planning. Then
there was the idea that social aspirations might have played
a role. The Gilded Age was a time of elaborate
social hierarchies, and an invitation to a presidential inauguration was
a prized symbol of status. The forgery could have been
(07:48):
an attempt by someone eager to gain entry to the
exclusive event. The impact of the forged invitation on the
inauguration day was significant. To ensure the ceremony proceeded without
further disruption, officials heightened security measures and meticulously verified the
credentials of all attendees. Though the forged invitation ultimately became
(08:08):
a mere footnote in Hayes's inauguration, it underscored the politically
charged climate of the time. The mystery of the forged
invitation remains unsolved, but it serves as a fascinating glimpse
into the heightened tensions and complexities of the Gilded Age.
It also highlights the scrutiny and suspicion that surrounded Rutherford B.
Hayes's path to the presidency. Ignorance is preferable to error,
(08:32):
and he is less remote from the truth who believes
nothing than he who believes what is wrong. These profound
words from Thomas Jefferson remind us that seeking knowledge, no
matter how daunting, is essential. We are not makers of history.
We are made by history, said Martin Luther King Junior,
encapsulating the essence of how our past shapes are present
(08:53):
in future. Such quotes encourage us to reflect on the
weight of historical events in their rippling effects. Jefferson's ghostly apparition,
Grant's blackout, and Hayes's forgery scandal are not just historical anecdotes.
They are testaments to the complexities and surprises that history holds.
As we ponder these peculiar tales, it's worth asking ourselves.
(09:15):
Could there be deeper meanings behind these events? What can
they teach us about leadership, resilience, and the ever present
shadows that accompany significant moments in history. Think about these
questions as we move forward. If you have thoughts or
theories about these historical mysteries, send me a message. History
is a tapestry woven with both known facts and lingering enigmas.
(09:37):
It's our curiosity that keeps those mysteries alive. Now, shifting
gears a bit, I want to introduce you to a
gripping psychological thriller series that intertwines the past with suspenseful mystery.
Yesteryear's Echo. This thrilling series kicks off with the protagonist Levi,
who becomes involved in the dubious world of psychotemporal displacement experiments.
(10:00):
These experiments allow subjects to relive historical moments, a premise
that alone is enough to send shivers down your spine.
The story takes a dark turn as Bower, another key character,
digs deeper into these experiments. What he uncovers is alarming,
a web of disturbing truths tied to his family's involvement,
and a sinister project known only as Case forty seven.
(10:23):
As eerie symptoms begin to manifest within his own family,
Bower is thrust into an urgent quest for truth, racing
against time to uncover the dark legacy hidden within Saint
Elizabeth's Hospital. The series masterfully blends themes of psychological tension,
family secrets, and historical significance, keeping you on the edge
of your seat. If you're a fan of intricate plot
(10:46):
lines and tantalizing mysteries, Yesteryear's Echo promises an intriguing journey
that will leave you questioning reality until the very last page.
This book series is perfect for those who enjoyed The
Silent Patient and Shutter Island. Allow yourself to dive into
this captivating story and you won't be disappointed. Go ahead
and add Yester Year's Echo to your reading list. You
(11:08):
won't regret it. Now, let's talk about something equally compelling,
yet free to all of you listening, yester Year's Ruin.
This remarkable historical psychological thriller is available for a free download,
and you won't want to miss it. Yester Year's Ruin
captures the essence of human resilience in the face of
unimaginable loss. The narrative weaves together themes of love, despair,
(11:32):
and the relentless quest for redemption. It's a moving story
that invites readers to explore the depths of human emotion
and the challenges that come with overcoming adversity. Through a
blend of historical context and gripping story telling, yester Year's
Ruin offers a captivating journey that keeps readers engaged from
start to finish. It's not just a tale of past events,
(11:55):
but a deep dive into the human spirit and the
power of hope amidst despair. For those interested in exploring
this rich narrative, you can download Yesteryear's Ruin for free.
Be sure to check the show notes for the link.
Next up, I want to introduce you to a delightful
historical mystery that's perfect for our young readers out there.
(12:15):
It's called Mystery at Sea Edge, a Monterey Adventure, and
it's aims specifically at fourth grade level readers. This captivating
story takes us on an exciting journey through time with
siblings Wick and Rindy and their cousin Less. The trio
finds themselves unraveling clues that lead them through a series
of mysterious events. It all starts with an enigmatic figure
(12:37):
appearing in the fog and a golden locket that holds
secrets waiting to be discovered. The plot is rich with
themes of adventure, personal prejudices, and historical context, making it
both educational and entertaining. Young readers will be swept away
by the thrilling twists and turns as Wick, Rindy, and
Les navigate their way through these intriguing mysteries. The book
(12:59):
all so offers a wonderful opportunity for children to learn
about the history of Monterey, California as they follow along
with the character's escapades. Mystery at Sea Edge is not
just a compelling read, it's a chance for young minds
to embark on a journey that's both fun and enriching.
So if you have a young reader in your life,
I highly encourage you to get a copy and let
(13:20):
them dive into this historical adventure. They'll not only enjoy
the suspense and mystery, but also gain valuable insights into
an important period of American history. Stay tuned as we
continue to uncover more fascinating stories from the past, and
remember history is filled with surprises and lessons waiting to
be discovered. Now it's time for some reading recommendations to
(13:44):
add to your list. First up is The Haunted Lighthouse
by Shanagorian. This historical mystery is perfect for middle grade readers.
Imagine a thunderstorm off the coast of Maine and a
mysterious beam of light that leads three friends on a
search for answers. Their visit to a coastal harbor town
turns into an unraveling of an otherworldly tale. It's recommended
(14:05):
for ages nine to twelve and promises plenty of adventure
without graphic violence or language, making it suitable for young
mystery enthusiasts. Next, we have Artificial Stars by Carmen White.
In this science fantasy quest, artificial intelligence meets humanity in
unexpected ways. The story follows Elaine who works at a
galactic power station. When an outage results in casualties among
(14:28):
her alien neighbors, Elaine teems up with an intrusive AI
and a kind alien with death reading powers to uncover
life altering truths about the universe. It's a thrilling series
exploring creation, friendship, and the fight to save worlds. Then
there's rain Shadow by Mark Jenkins. Set in nineteen ninety nine.
The story centers on Jamie Coots, who is struggling with
(14:50):
her Silicon Valley career. After a mysterious phone call from
her sister Chloe, Jamie joins her on a backpacking journey
into the Olympic Rainforest to find their reclusive grandmother. They
face a severe storm and confront an ancient supernatural presence,
making it a gripping read for those who enjoy supernatural
and nature driven narratives. And lastly, don't forget about the
(15:12):
a New Beginning for a New Year promotion. This offer
ends soon, so make sure to get your hands on
these books before the promotion ends. Check the show notes
for more details on how to grab these exciting reads.
This wraps up another intriguing episode of The Bell's Books
and Blog podcast I'm your host, Jane M. Bell. Be
sure to check the show notes for links to all
(15:34):
the books and articles mentioned in today's episode. I always
look forward to hearing from you, so send me a
message with your thoughts, responses, or any questions you might
have about the topics we discussed. Remember history is filled
with mysteries and stories that continue to ignite our curiosity
and wonder. Keep exploring, keep questioning, and keep the past alive.
(15:56):
Until next week, Take care and happy reading. Conductor commenter, Conductor,
conductor and doctor comment
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