Subject
Radio -- Fiction Books
Best books
William Le Queux
Tracked by Wireless
"Tracked by Wireless" by William Le Queux is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Geoffrey Falconer, a dedicated young radio engineer who finds himself embroiled in a web of mystery and crime stemming from his experiments with wireless technology. As Falconer becomes aware of an inexplicable signal and a series of odd events involving those around him, he is drawn into a narrative filled with suspense, deception, and intrigue. At the start of the novel, we meet Geoffrey Falconer in his laboratory, where he is puzzling over a strange and repetitive wireless signal that he hears every evening. This unusual frequency captures his curiosity, leading him to investigate its origins while navigating his personal connections, particularly with Sylvia Beverley, the daughter of a wealthy widow, and their interactions at a glamorous society event. As Falconer's intrigue deepens, he uncovers a sinister plot involving jewel thefts and the dubious characters connected to Sylvia's social circles. The opening sets a compelling stage for a gripping tale where technological advancements collide with nefarious intentions.
Ralph Milne Farley
The Radio Beasts
"The Radio Beasts" by Ralph Milne Farley is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the story of Myles Standish Cabot, a radio genius who once journeyed to the planet Venus and faced challenges that threaten the peace of his adopted world. As he delves into new adventures after returning to Earth, the narrative promises an exploration of themes involving loyalty, resilience, and the conflict between different races and cultures. The opening of the story introduces the protagonist, who reflects on a bizarre news item about a maniac interrupting a radio session at General Electric, which leads him to reminisce about Myles Cabot, an old friend who had previously disappeared. Upon encountering Cabot in a surprising reunion, the protagonist learns that Cabot's earlier adventures on Venus were indeed true and not a fabrication. The narrative sets the stage for future conflicts as Cabot reveals troubling developments and the resurgence of threats to the peace he fought to secure, with the fate of numerous characters hanging in the balance. This portion invites curiosity about the dynamics of Cabot's relationships, the nature of his past adventures, and the unfolding political tension on Venus.
Alexander Forbes
The Radio Gunner
"The Radio Gunner" by Alexander Forbes is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the story of Jim Evans, a young man with a passion for science and radio technology, as he navigates his growth from a boy fascinated by a Memorial Day parade to a skilled radio operator during a significant naval conflict. The narrative interweaves themes of friendship, responsibility, and the pursuit of knowledge within the backdrop of historical events. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jim Evans, a young boy who, during a Memorial Day parade, grapples with the meaning of his mother’s tears as she remembers her father, a war hero. Fast forward eleven years, Jim is now a student in boarding school, where he demonstrates bravery during a fire outbreak, prompting respect from his peers. As the story progresses, Jim's passion for science leads him to a successful naval career, where he becomes a proficient radio operator during World War I. His friendship with Sam Mortimer also plays a critical role, as Mortimer's political path intersects with Jim's scientific pursuits, setting the stage for their roles in the upcoming conflict with the rising powers in Europe.
Wallace West
Static
"Static" by Wallace West is a novella written in the early 20th century, often characterized by its vivid storytelling and exploration of human behavior in extreme circumstances. This fictional narrative takes place in colonial Africa, where the protagonist, Charles Markley, carries his radio equipment with him into the heart of the jungle. The book examines themes of isolation, the psychological effects of colonialism, and the intersection of technology and local cultures. The story revolves around Charles Markley, a young man disillusioned with life in England who relocates to Africa with ambitions of eliminating static in radio communication. His journey is marked by rapid descent into alcoholism and cultural clashes as he becomes entangled with the local customs and a native woman named Eta. As Markley's mental state deteriorates, he mistakenly presents his radio as a divine force to the villagers, leading to a catastrophic confrontation with the local witch doctor, Buhu, and ultimately, his downfall. The novella presents a vivid portrayal of the destructive influence of colonial mentality and personal despair, showcasing how isolation and indulgence can lead to tragic consequences.
Jack Woodford
Radio razz
"Radio Razz" by Jack Woodford is a short story piece written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around a quirky radio shop run by the eccentric Doc Edwards, a former veterinary surgeon turned radio salesman, who entertains himself and his customers with his unconventional sales tactics and colorful personality. The story delves into themes of commerce, human interaction, and unexpected connections, all underscored by the enchanting allure of radio technology. The plot unfolds as the narrator, a regular at Doc's radio store, witnesses a charming encounter when a beautiful young woman comes in to buy a radio set. As she engages with Doc, the narrator is drawn to her, and a lively negotiation ensues. However, the dynamics shift unexpectedly when a young man enters the store, leading to a humorous twist: the woman turns out to be his wife. This revelation exposes Doc's penchant for manipulating prices and highlights the unpredictability of relationships formed in mundane settings. The story cleverly intertwines the excitement of a budding romance with the whimsical charm of early radio culture, leaving the reader with a sense of wonder and amusement.
Jan Dirk
Radio V-rays
"Radio V-rays" by Jan Dirk is a science fiction story likely written in the early 20th century. This narrative revolves around the innovative world of radio technology and its potential to connect with other planets. It explores the adventures of two young engineering students, Dick Jarvis and Stan Ross, as they tinker with radio equipment and inadvertently tap into a telepathic communication channel from Mars. The story unfolds as Dick and Stan, united by their passion for radio, work on a unique project that combines elements of radio technology with the concepts of telepathy. Their experiments lead them to discover a method of listening in on interplanetary thoughts and conversations, revealing a rich tapestry of ideas and plots from Martians. The tale not only delves into the excitement of youthful exploration and scientific discovery but also hints at profound themes about communication and connection across vast distances, culminating in a mysterious ending that leaves their fate uncertain.
Nelson S. Bond
The madness of Lancelot Biggs
"The Madness of Lancelot Biggs" by Nelson S. Bond is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Lancelot Biggs, an officer aboard the spacecraft Saturn, who must navigate the complexities of love and rivalry while dealing with the high-stakes atmosphere of space travel. The plot unfolds during a critical time when the annual football game between rival space academies is about to be broadcast, raising the tension among the crew. In this light-hearted tale, Lancelot Biggs is caught in a love triangle involving the captain's daughter, Diane Hanson, while facing the wrath of his superior, Captain Hanson. As they embark on a journey to reconnect their ship's broken radio for the game broadcast, Biggs proposes a wager that pits his affection for Diane against his lofty ambitions and the captain’s authority. Throughout the narrative, comedic misunderstandings and clever scientific principles play out, culminating in a surprising twist related to Biggs' innovative uranium audio plate. In the end, Biggs triumphs not only in securing his love but also in showcasing his genius, aiding his standing among the crew while bringing a lively resolution to their tangled relationships.
Will H. Grattan
Broadcast
"Broadcast" by Will H. Grattan is a suspenseful short story that appeared in the early 20th century, specifically in the 1920s. The narrative centers around themes of deception, survival, and unexpected loyalty in the face of crime discovery. It evokes the adventurous spirit of the American West, particularly the mining culture of the time. The story follows Joe Teagler, a prospector who has struck gold but unintentionally finds himself in a perilous situation when a notorious fugitive, “Snapper” Kirk, arrives at his remote cabin. After enjoying lunch with Teagler, Kirk reveals his criminal intentions, holding Teagler at gunpoint and demanding to know about a hidden treasure. Through clever maneuvering, Teagler manages to turn the tables, using both wits and a pre-planned strategy to escape the dire threat posed by Kirk. The tale culminates in an intense confrontation that highlights Teagler's quick thinking and the surprising bonds between past acquaintances, revealing dimensions of loyalty and redemption.
L. Paul
Code
"Code" by L. Paul is a crime fiction narrative likely written in the late 1920s. The book centers around a mysterious ship, the "Cora", and its crew as they find themselves embroiled in a thrilling plot related to stolen valuables, deception, and the looming specter of impending investigation from Scotland Yard. It combines elements of suspense and intrigue as the characters navigate their murky intentions against the backdrop of criminal undertakings. The story follows Drake, a man with dubious ties, who boards the "Cora" under the pretense of being a passenger. He soon discovers that the ship harbors secrets, including a connection to a sensational jewel heist and potential murder. As tensions rise among the ship's passengers—who include a dubious engineer and a quiet fellow named Quayle—Drake deduces that he is not the only one with something to hide. The narrative unfolds as Drake, trying to outsmart his suspicious peers and uncover the truth, clashes with the cunning wireless operator Cray and the weary captain Bain. Ultimately, the book weaves a complex tapestry of lies and enigmas culminating in a resolution that ties together the threads of intrigue aboard the ship, exposing the intricacies of crime and morality at sea.
William Le Queux
The Voice from the Void: The Great Wireless Mystery
"The Voice from the Void: The Great Wireless Mystery" by William Le Queux is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Reverend Norton Homfray, a country rector, and his son Roddy, as they grapple with mysterious events surrounding the sudden appearance of Gordon Gray, a man presumed dead, and the subsequent disappearance of Roddy following a tragic encounter in Welling Wood. The narrative unfolds in an atmosphere thick with suspense and a blend of romance and intrigue. The opening of the novel introduces the disturbing sight of Gordon Gray in the church pew, which deeply unsettles Mr. Homfray. As the story advances, we learn of Roddy's encounter with a mysterious girl in Welling Wood who calls out for help before dying in his arms. This sets off a series of ominous events, particularly when Roddy disappears after the incident. His father grapples with the implications of events from his past connected to Gray, which seem to threaten their lives. The intriguing dynamics between the characters, alongside the elements of mystery surrounding the deaths and disappearances, paint an engaging picture of a narrative that promises both suspense and emotional depth as it unfolds.
Robert Silverberg
Homecoming Horde
"Homecoming Horde" by Robert Silverberg is a science fiction novella written in the late 1950s. The story explores themes of isolation, fear, and the fragility of humankind in the face of overwhelming extraterrestrial forces. It focuses on an apocalyptic scenario where the last surviving human, overwhelmed by loneliness and the threat of alien invaders, contemplates his fate as the end of human civilization looms. In the narrative, Haverford, a reclusive radio operator, discovers that he is possibly the last man on Earth after the arrival of the Lanthaii, a chilling alien species intent on conquering the planet. As he barricades himself in his room, he struggles with the growing silence of his fellow ham operators, who one by one fall victim to the alien onslaught. The novella vividly captures Haverford's escalating paranoia and desperation as he clings to the hope of survival while facing the reality of being utterly alone. In a haunting climax, he confronts the alien invaders, and the story concludes with a poignant contrast between the insignificance of a common Earth fly and the monstrous alien horde, leaving readers with a sense of tragic irony.
Robert Moore Williams
The impossible invention
"The Impossible Invention" by Robert Moore Williams is a science fiction novel that was likely written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the fascinating yet controversial concept of transmitting power through radio waves, challenging conventional scientific beliefs. It explores themes of innovation, skepticism, and the implications of scientific discovery on humanity. The story follows James Arthur Fradin, a diminutive yet courageous inventor, who presents his groundbreaking theories about radio waves and their transmission through what he dubs the "fourth dimension." During a tense and chaotic confrontation with fellow scientists at the Institute of Radio Engineers, he faces ridicule and demands to back up his claims. Unbeknownst to them, a nefarious character named Marvak is interested in exploiting Fradin's discovery for sinister purposes. As Marvak kidnaps Fradin to force him to demonstrate his invention, a chaotic sequence of events leads to the accidental activation of Fradin's device, resulting in a catastrophic breach into the fourth dimension, with unforeseen consequences for Marvak. The narrative ultimately underlines the dangers and ethical dilemmas posed by scientific advancement, leaving readers to ponder the ramifications of harnessing such profound discoveries.
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