Author
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
1878-1959
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell (1878-1959) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
Riddle of the Storm A Mystery Story for Boys
"Riddle of the Storm" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for boys written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds in the rugged northern wilderness of Canada, featuring Curlie Carson, an air mail pilot who encounters a mysterious gray plane that is rumored to be an outlaw's vehicle. The book delves into themes of adventure, mystery, and the challenges of life in the harsh Arctic environment as Curlie becomes embroiled in an attempt to unravel the secrets behind the plane and its elusive pilot. The opening of the story introduces Curlie Carson, who is on a routine flight along the Mackenzie River Air Route when he sights the fabled "Gray Streak," a plane associated with tales of criminal activity. The appearance of the plane fills him with both fear and curiosity, especially as he discovers a woman's handkerchief that carries a dire message: "I am a captive." This compelling moment sets Curlie on a path of investigation, not only to protect his own cargo against potential theft but also to aid the captive, identified as D'Arcy Arden. Meanwhile, as Curlie grapples with the mysteries of the air, another character, Joyce Mills, emerges in a separate narrative thread, hinting at intertwined fates and further mysteries as the story progresses through the arctic wilderness.
Sally Scott of the WAVES
"Sally Scott of the WAVES" by Roy J. Snell is a historical novel written in the early 1940s. The story centers around Sally Scott, a young woman who has joined the Women Accepted for Voluntary Emergency Service (WAVES) during World War II. The narrative delves into her adventurous experiences as she navigates military life, forming friendships, and using her impressive skills in radio communication, which may play a pivotal role in the war efforts. The opening of the novel introduces Sally as a resourceful and determined character who is engaged in a secret mission involving her unique radio equipment, which she keeps hidden due to its importance and the strict regulations against radio use in her quarters. Shortly after starting her new life in the WAVES, she connects with Nancy, an old friend, and soon reveals her thrilling ambitions tied to a mysterious, innovative radio that she hopes can aid in military communications. As they prepare for their military duties, Sally's resolve to serve her country becomes clearer, setting the stage for a story filled with camaraderie, ambition, and the spirit of wartime adventure.
Norma Kent of the WACS
"Norma Kent of the WACS" by Roy J. Snell is a novel written in the early 1940s. The story centers around Norma Kent, a recent college graduate who eagerly joins the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) during World War II. As she embarks on her new adventure at Fort Des Moines, she navigates the challenges of basic training while grappling with suspicions of espionage among her fellow recruits. At the start of the book, Norma Kent lies in a barrack full of other WAC recruits, reflecting on her decision to join the Army and the excitement and trepidation that accompanies this new chapter of her life. The opening scenes focus on her interactions with other girls, including a little Italian named Rosa and a tall girl named Lena, who present different dynamics within the group. As Norma adapts to military life, she becomes increasingly aware of her surroundings, including the odd behaviors of some recruits that lead her to suspect spy activity. This mixture of camaraderie, personal growth, and an unfolding mystery sets the stage for her journey in the WAC and the broader challenges faced during the war.
Green Eyes
"Green Eyes" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for girls written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the adventures of Florence Huyler and her French friend, Petite Jeanne, as they encounter thrilling and dangerous situations in a mysterious northern setting. The story develops themes of friendship, courage, and a deep connection to nature, while unfolding a captivating mystery that intertwines their lives with enigmatic characters. The opening of the story sets a vivid scene on Morton's Bay, where Florence and Petite Jeanne find themselves in a rowboat during a tranquil night, contemplating the mysterious island and its reclusive inhabitant. Their peace is abruptly shattered by a speeding boat that causes their own vessel to capsize, plunging them into the cold waters. As Florence swims to safety with Petit Jeanne in tow, they seek refuge at the mysterious island cottage and meet an intriguing young woman, whose connection to the unfolding mystery is hinted at through her actions and belongings. This series of events establishes an atmosphere of suspense and encourages exploration of both character dynamics and the secrets that lie hidden in the shadows of their surroundings.
The Rope of Gold A Mystery Story for Boys
"The Rope of Gold" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery novel written in the late 1920s. The story follows young Johnny Thompson and his friend Curlie Carson as they navigate the intriguing landscape of Haiti, searching for the legendary 'Rope of Gold' believed to be hidden within the ancient Citadel. As they embark on their adventure, the boys encounter mysterious natives, strange happenings, and the rich history of the island, infused with elements of suspense and exploration. At the start of the novel, Johnny finds himself alone at the foot of the Citadel, where he observes a suspicious rope ladder descending from a window belonging to Curlie's laboratory. Concerned for his friend’s safety, he prepares to intervene but is caught up in a rush of thoughts. The narrative quickly unfolds to reveal the backstory of the boys' endeavors in Haiti, moved by the Professor's vision to aid the native population. As the plot thickens, mysterious figures, including an alarming native and an enigmatic girl with a drum, begin to emerge, setting the stage for a captivating tale of adventure, danger, and the quest for the elusive treasure.
The Galloping Ghost A Mystery Story for Boys
"The Galloping Ghost" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for boys written in the early 20th century. The book follows the protagonist, Red Rodgers, a college football star known as the "Red Rover," who has been kidnapped and taken to a mysterious island. As he navigates his unexpected captivity, he encounters comradery in another captive, Berley Todd, who becomes an ally in their quest for escape. The beginning of the story establishes the premise of Red's kidnapping, detailing his bewilderment as he wakes in an unfamiliar place after being abducted from a train. He recalls his life as a football player and his aspirations intertwining with the urgency of escaping his captors. As he contemplates the situation, he also overhears a tense conversation involving another captive, a girl named Berley, who refuses to comply with her captors’ demands. Their shared predicament leads to the formation of a bond as they strategize an escape from the island, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure filled with danger and growing camaraderie.
Red Dynamite A Mystery Story for Boys
"Red Dynamite" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery novel written in the mid-20th century. The story features Johnny Thompson, a boy from Illinois, who travels to the Cumberland Mountains of Kentucky and stumbles upon a series of intriguing mysteries, including an old grist mill that produces something unusual from seemingly nothing, and a bear that steals a pig. As he unravels these mysteries, Johnny also discovers the secrets and adventures that await in the mountains, potentially leading to personal growth and excitement. At the start of the novel, Johnny meets Ballard Ball, a local boy working at the mill, and learns of the peculiar activities happening within it. The two form a bond as they explore the area, sharing a sense of adventure marked by Johnny's curiosity about what occurs in the mysterious lower mill. As they navigate through their surroundings, they encounter various challenges, including the possibility of encountering a bear and saving a mule from a perilous bridge, setting the stage for an adventure filled with camaraderie, intrigue, and the promise of untold tales waiting to be discovered in the heart of the Cumberlands.
The Crimson Thread: An Adventure Story for Girls
"The Crimson Thread: An Adventure Story for Girls" by Roy J. Snell is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around young Lucile Tucker, who works in a department store during the busy Christmas season, where she unintentionally becomes entangled in mysteries involving a mysterious woman, a handsome co-worker, and a series of strange occurrences. The themes likely touch upon adventure, mystery, and personal growth, as Lucile navigates her experiences and interactions in the world of retail. The opening portion of the story establishes an atmosphere of intrigue and suspense as Lucile encounters a beautiful woman dressed in an elegant cape within the dark passageways of the department store. Startled by the appearance of this mysterious figure, Lucile wrestles with her suspicions of wrongdoing while simultaneously developing feelings for her colleague, Laurie Seymour. As the clock strikes ten, Lucile's evening takes an unexpected turn as she learns her coat has been replaced by the costly cape, further entwining her in the night's enigmatic happenings. Lucile's curiosity propels her into a series of events filled with potential danger and inner conflict, setting the stage for the unfolding adventures and discoveries that await her.
On the Yukon Trail Radio-Phone Boys Series, #2
"On the Yukon Trail" by James Craig is a children’s adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Curlie Carson, a boy employed by the United States Bureau of Secret Service of the Air, who possesses extraordinary listening abilities due to his advanced radio skills. As he journeys into the Alaskan wilderness alongside his friend Joe Marion, they aim to stop a dangerous adversary who is disrupting important communications in the region, while also tracking down the mysteries surrounding a silent girl known as the Whisperer. The opening portion of the novel introduces Curlie and Joe as they set out on an expedition on the Valdez Glacier. The boys are determined to complete their mission, but they quickly face several challenges, including a mysterious whisper from the air warning Curlie about danger ahead. As they trek across the unforgiving terrain, Curlie's special radio expertise becomes pivotal in their quest to find and confront the outlaw of the air. Companions Jennings and Joe's interactions, along with their survival instincts, add depth to their adventure as they prepare for the unknown hazards that await them on their journey.
The Purple Flame A Mystery Story for Girls
"The Purple Flame" by Roy J. Snell is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the Arctic wilderness, it follows the journey of Marian Norton, a young girl who herds reindeer in the harsh northern terrain. The story opens with a sense of mystery as Marian encounters a mysterious purple flame emanating from an abandoned dredging scow, which leads her to question who might be inhabiting it and anticipate the challenges that lie ahead. At the start of the book, Marian is making her way over the tundra with her reindeer when she first sees the strange purple flame. Interested yet cautious, she decides not to investigate further and instead pushes on to reach her destination. The narrative introduces her character as strong and resourceful, having been tasked with managing her reindeer herd while her father recovers in the States. As the story unfolds, she prepares for the arrival of her cousin, Patsy, from Kentucky, and faces the complexities of life in the Arctic, including the potential threats from both wildlife and other men seeking to take advantage of their herding operations. The opening sets the stage for a blend of adventure, familial bonds, and the ever-present mysteries of the north.
Witches Cove A Mystery Story for Girls
"Witches Cove" by Roy J. Snell is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around two adventurous girls, Ruth Bracket and Betty Bronson, who find themselves drawn into a series of mysterious events while spending summer on the coast of Maine. Their exploration leads them to encounter a beached schooner, seemingly linked to intriguing mysteries, including potential smuggling activities and a crew of pirates who turn out to be something quite different. The opening portion of the book introduces readers to the atmospheric setting of Casco Bay during a moonless night as Ruth and Betty row out in their dory, drawn by their love for mystery and adventure. They stumble upon a beached three-masted schooner, which ignites their curiosity when they see strange bolts of red cloth inside. Their night takes a thrilling turn when they encounter a mysterious dory crewed by men dressed like pirates. After a brief scare, they discover that the supposed pirates are hosting a celebratory gathering aboard the ancient vessel, joined by locals. As the chapter progresses, Ruth and Betty's adventures set the stage for a summer filled with excitement, budding friendships, and unresolved mysteries linked to smuggling and local folklore.
The Magic Curtain A Mystery Story for Girls
"The Magic Curtain" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for young readers written in the early 20th century. The plot centers around a beautiful French boy named Pierre Andrews, who secretly dreams of becoming a great opera singer. As he navigates the world of wealth and glamour at the grand opera house, he becomes embroiled in a theft involving a diamond necklace, leading to a series of adventures filled with suspense and exploration of identity. The opening of the book introduces readers to the ominous atmosphere of an empty opera house at night, where Pierre, unassuming and delicate, is on the periphery of the upper-class events around him. Intrigued by the opulence he witnesses, he finds himself entwined in a theft he did not commit, and instead of fleeing, he contemplates remaining in the shadows. Following his escape from the ensuing chaos, Pierre's dilemma is further complicated by a friendship with the strong-willed Florence Huyler, who is determined to help him navigate this unexpected journey, revealing themes of aspiration, courage, and the intersections of social classes. As the narrative unfolds, readers will follow his exploits in disguise and the quest for truth amid mystery.
A Ticket to Adventure A Mystery Story for Girls
"A Ticket to Adventure" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for girls written in the late 1930s. The narrative centers around Mary Hughes and her cousin Florence as they embark on a journey to Alaska, encountering various characters and challenges along the way. The girls hope for an adventurous life as pioneers but soon realize that their journey is not without its dangers and mysteries. The opening of the story introduces Mary Hughes as she arrives in Anchorage, Alaska, where she unexpectedly meets a peculiar little man, Mister Il-ay-ok, who is an Eskimo. The encounter with Il-ay-ok piques Mary’s curiosity, especially when a stranger expresses disdain for him, implying a deeper enmity. After this disconcerting introduction, the narrative unfolds to show the girls' excitement for pioneering life in the Matamuska Valley, as they grapple with the unexpected discovery about Florence's possibly alive grandfather, Tom Kennedy. The sisters face an uncertain future, filled with hopes of adventure amid the realities of life in an unfamiliar wild, setting the stage for a rich exploration of themes like curiosity, family ties, and the unpredictability of life.
Jet Plane Mystery
"Jet Plane Mystery" by Roy J. Snell is a novel written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around Ensign Jack Steel, a young Navy pilot stationed on an aircraft carrier in the Pacific during World War II. The narrative kicks off with Jack preparing for a mission while surrounded by the looming threat of enemy forces and introduces an atmosphere charged with mystery and anticipation as Jack grapples with both his surroundings and his aspirations for combat. The opening of the book immerses the reader in Jack's world aboard the carrier "Black Bee", where he reflects on flight missions and the camaraderie with fellow pilots. As tensions rise with the threat of an ambush from Japanese forces, Jack experiences a strange whistling sound overhead, leading him and Lieutenant Commander Donald Stone to suspect a bomb or enemy trickery. Shortly after, Jack connects with other pilots, reinforcing the teamwork essential for their daunting tasks. With Jack's sense of duty and urgency to engage in the fight, the early chapters set the stage for escalated action and adventure, hinting at both camaraderie among the pilots and the real dangers that lie ahead.
Gypsy Flight A Mystery Story for Girls
"Gypsy Flight" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for girls written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Rosemary Sample, a young stewardess, as she navigates her duties aboard an airplane while encountering mysterious characters and situations, including a dark woman with a suspicious bag and a young man named Danby Force who seems to be connected to her story. The opening of "Gypsy Flight" introduces Rosemary as a capable and optimistic stewardess who loves her job and seeks to help her passengers. Her journey begins when she meets Danby Force, who urgently requests a seat on her flight. As Rosemary interacts with him and other passengers, she finds herself drawn into a world of mystery that includes a fortune-telling gypsy girl, a sinister dark woman, and the possibilities of adventure in the skies. The tension builds as the story hints at deeper connections and secrets yet to be uncovered, setting the stage for an intriguing tale of discovery and danger.
Sparky Ames of the Ferry Command
"Sparky Ames of the Ferry Command" by Roy J. Snell is a novel written in the early 1940s. This story follows the adventurous exploits of Mary Mason and her fellow pilot, Sparky Ames, members of the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron during World War II. Set in exotic locations such as Brazil and Africa, the book explores themes of bravery, duty, and the challenges faced in wartime aviation. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a thrilling scene high above Brazilian jungles, where two transport planes are on a perilous mission. One plane encounters mechanical failure, leading to a tense situation as Mary, the skilled co-pilot, follows Sparky's damaged plane into a clearing amidst the unknown dangers of the jungle. As they grapple with the threat posed by potential enemy actions, the narrative sets the stage for an action-packed journey full of unexpected twists, camaraderie, and the overarching mission to deliver crucial military cargo while overcoming the challenges of war.
The phantom violin : $b a mystery story for girls
"The Phantom Violin: A Mystery Story for Girls" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery novel written likely in the early 20th century. The story features three adventurous girls—Petite Jeanne, Florence, and Greta—who have taken up residence aboard a wrecked ship on Lake Superior during the summer. Their idyllic summer soon turns mysterious as they encounter strange happenings including ghostly sightings and a phantom violinist, setting them on a journey filled with intrigue and adventure. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to Petite Jeanne, who, in a ghostly white gown, frightens off two men who have approached the wreck while she and her friends discuss the enchanting sights and sounds surrounding them. As they settle into their new home, they enjoy the beauty of Isle Royale but are soon caught up in mysterious happenings, such as hearing spectral music and encountering unknown visitors. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for an adventurous summer filled with exploration, mystery, and the potential for danger, proving that the summer may bring more than just sun-soaked leisure on the ship.
Wings over England
"Wings over England" by Roy J. Snell is a fictional novel likely written in the early 1940s. The book captures the dramatic backdrop of World War II, focusing on the lives of characters like Cherry Ramsey and Dave Barnes, as they find themselves caught amid air raids and the threat of enemy bombers over England. Themes of camaraderie and courage are interwoven throughout the narrative as the characters confront the realities of war and its impact on their lives. The opening portion introduces readers to Cherry Ramsey, who is enjoying a serene autumn day in the English countryside when an enemy aircraft suddenly interrupts her peace, foreshadowing the coming conflict. As Cherry, along with local boys, witnesses a German bomber in the sky, their conversations reveal the imminent dangers of war. Cherry's loyal collie, Flash, and her concern for the safety of her family serve as emotional anchors. The tension escalates with the bombings, leading Cherry to dash towards the site of destruction, reflecting both her bravery and deep connection to her childhood memories. This compelling mix of innocence disrupted by harsh realities sets the stage for a gripping tale of resilience in the face of adversity.
Sign of the Green Arrow A Mystery Story
"Sign of the Green Arrow" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery novel written in the late 1930s. The story centers around a young man named Johnny Thompson, who embarks on an adventurous and potentially dangerous journey while working on a scientific expedition aboard the ship "Sea Nymph". As he navigates through mysterious surroundings, he encounters a peculiar green light signaling from a nearby island, intriguing characters including a blonde girl named Doris and her grandfather Professor Casper, and hints of espionage that elevate the tension within the narrative. The opening of the story establishes the atmosphere of suspense and adventure, beginning with Johnny's solitary shift on the deck of the ship in the tropical night. He soon spots a mysterious green arrow signal and meets Doris, who shares his curiosity about the light. Their conversation reveals hints of danger in the region involving native unrest and possible spies. As Johnny reflects on his life and the unexplained occurrences surrounding him, a sense of excitement builds around their planned explorations and the hidden secrets of the sea. The chapters that follow promise thrilling underwater discoveries, unearthing the potential threats posed by spies, all while developing Johnny's relationship with Doris and the quest for answers.
Mystery Wings A Mystery Story for Boys
"Mystery Wings" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery novel for young readers written in the mid-20th century. The story follows a boy named Johnny Thompson, who has returned to his small hometown of Hillcrest, where he becomes enmeshed in a series of intriguing events, including engaging with a mysterious Chinaman named Tao Sing, discovering a unique thought-recording device, and navigating the challenges surrounding a local baseball team. The narrative layers themes of friendship, mystery, and adventure. At the start of the book, Johnny finds himself in a park when he encounters the enigmatic Tao Sing, who appears to read his mind and foretell his worries about an upcoming baseball game. As the plot unfolds, Johnny grapples with his secretive new pitcher and the uncanny abilities of Tao Sing, who claims to possess a camera that captures thoughts. This moment sets the stage for a series of explorations and situations that intertwine baseball with a quest for understanding the mysteries surrounding Johnny's life and the people in his community. The opening creates an engaging atmosphere filled with mystery and hints at deeper connections between characters, beckoning readers to join Johnny on his journey.
Third Warning A Mystery Story for Girls
"Third Warning" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story written in the late 1930s. The narrative centers around Florence Huyler and Captain Davie as they embark on a summer cruise to Isle Royale, only to be faced with a series of emergencies, including a raging forest fire threatening both the island's natural beauty and the lives of campers. Along the journey, the book captures youthful adventurous spirits, the theme of responsibility, and a mysterious antagonist that adds tension to the plot. The opening of the story introduces Florence and Dave aboard the motorboat "Wanderer", where they observe strange clouds on the horizon and become aware of a fire on Isle Royale. Florence’s thoughts reveal her deep concerns about their ill-fated venture to run a passenger service on the island, and her worries escalate upon learning of the advancing fire. As they head toward Siskowit Bay to assist a group of campers, tensions arise between Dave and a disgruntled passenger, hinting at underlying conflicts. The urgency grows as they encounter the fierce flames, showcasing the bravery of Florence and her companions as they prepare to battle against nature to save both the campers and their boat. The stage is set for a tale of courage and resilience against unexpected challenges.
The Firebug
"The Firebug" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Johnny Thompson, a young boy with aspirations to fight fires and catch arsonists, as he embarks on a thrilling adventure in pursuit of a mysterious firebug responsible for multiple arsons in his city, including a devastating fire at a school. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Johnny as he eagerly awaits an alarm for a fire, showcasing his deep interest in firefighting. He is soon thrust into action alongside the city’s fire chief, racing to a burning school where he boldly enters the flames to save a young girl named Tillie. As he navigates through the chaos of the fire and the concerned onlookers outside, he becomes invested in unraveling the mystery of the arsonist, which hints at a deeper connection to the troubling social circumstances surrounding the fires. Johnny's determination and courage set the tone for an engaging narrative filled with suspense and the theme of youthful heroism amidst danger.
The Arrow of Fire A Mystery Story for Boys
"The Arrow of Fire" by Roy J. Snell is a boys' mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Johnny Thompson, a young man recently returned to his native Chicago after three years of adventure, who quickly finds himself embroiled in crime-fighting. With engaging characters like Drew Lane, a young detective, and a host of intriguing criminal activity in the city, the novel blends elements of mystery with the thrill of detective work and the camaraderie of unexpected friendships. At the start of the novel, Johnny arrives back in Chicago aboard a freighter, feeling a mixture of nostalgia and anticipation for the adventures that await him. After meeting Drew Lane, who appears to lead a double life as an ordinary man and a detective, Johnny is drawn into a world filled with excitement and danger. The opening chapters establish Johnny's determination to take an active role in crime prevention as he becomes a witness in a significant case involving pickpockets, while a mysterious figure with a gun looms in the shadows, hinting at further peril. The narrative sets the stage for a thrilling journey as Johnny navigates the conflicts and challenges of city life, embracing his newfound responsibilities.
The Crystal Ball A Mystery Story for Girls
"The Crystal Ball" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery novel targeted toward a young adult audience, likely written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds through the experiences of Florence Huyler, the protagonist, who finds herself drawn into the intriguing world of fortune telling and crystal gazing, while encountering a young girl named June Travis with a hidden past. The narrative combines elements of suspense and adventure as Florence navigates through a web of mysteries surrounding June's quest to uncover her father's identity. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Florence Huyler, who, fueled by curiosity, investigates a mysterious room filled with dark velvety drapes and a crystal ball. Her encounter quickly escalates when she witnesses a vision of a girl within the crystal, leading her to become embroiled in the girl’s life and the secrets surrounding her past. The opening hints at deeper themes of identity and the consequences of one's choices, as Florence grapples with her fear and fascination for the mystical powers of the crystal ball and the individuals involved in this shadowy world of fortune telling. As the plot unfolds, readers can expect a blend of mystery, personal exploration, and the dynamics of friendship among the characters.