Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
White Fire
"White Fire" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story follows Johnny Thompson, a young mechanic who encounters strange occurrences at the industrial plant where he works, specifically a mysterious "white fire" that enables him to weld metal without conventional means. As he grapples with the mysteries surrounding his work and attempts to uncover the truth, Johnny is also driven to settle his family’s debts and dreams of adventure. At the start of the novel, Johnny is in the salvage department of a large factory and discovers a glowing white spot on a metal casting he is working on. This incident leads him to ponder the nature of this strange phenomenon as he reflects on his recent past filled with adventures and the responsibilities he now faces after his father's death. The opening sets up an intriguing premise, hinting at potential danger and excitement as Johnny continues to encounter peculiar situations involving a new type of steel and even finds himself protecting it from theft. Overall, this blend of mystery, personal growth, and industrial adventure creates an engaging opening that sets the stage for further revelations and developments in Johnny's story.