6 Books Inspired By Maryland’s History, Mysteries And Legends

BALTIMORE — Maryland is an important state that’s rich with historical events and colorful aquatic life, so it’s no surprise that it’s been the setting for many popular books. Between the harrowing tale of an escaped slave in “Stealing Freedom” and the thrilling action in Tom Clancy’s “Patriot Games,” there’s no shortage of literature to explore about the Old Line State. These are five novels that you should try next if you’re ready to kick off your summer reading with a bang!

Stealing Freedom

“Stealing Freedom” is a middle-grade book written by Elisa Carbone that explores the challenging lives of slaves in America before the Civil War. Based on the true story of Ann Maria Weems, “Stealing Freedom” is a historical fiction novel that tells the tale of a young girl who escapes the clutches of slavery with help from the Underground Railroad.

If you’re looking for a book that explores the deepest roots of Maryland’s history, then “Stealing Freedom” is the perfect option. Plus, it’s a great learning tool for young teenagers who don’t yet have a grasp on the realities of slavery.

Red Kayak

If you’re looking for a novel with twists and turns aplenty, then “Red Kayak” may be up your alley. This fictional novel tells the story of Brady, a teenager living in the Chesapeake Bay area. After Brady discovers a kayak accident involving a young child, he unravels a dark truth involving the people he cares about the most.

“Red Kayak” by Priscilla Cummings is a deeply interesting book no matter where you live, as it explores themes like class inequality and crime. It’ll hit especially hard for Marylanders living on the Chesapeake Bay, so this is a great book for both young readers and adults who want to further explore literature based around our state.

Baltimore Blues

If you live in Baltimore, then this is the book for you! Written by Laura Lippman, “Baltimore Blues” is a fictional novel about a Baltimore reporter turned private investigator who works to find the truth behind the murder of a well-known attorney.

“Baltimore Blues” provides a fascinating mystery for readers to uncover, and with multiple sequels to explore, there’s no shortage of stories to read this summer. If you’re a Maryland native seeking to dive right into a new book series, then “Baltimore Blues” might just be what you need for a summer full of excitement.

Patriot Games

Tom Clancy was a famous author born in Maryland, and “Patriot Games” is one of the many books featuring Maryland connections through CIA analyst Jack Ryan and the Washington-Baltimore region. The plot follows CIA analyst Jack Ryan as he works to thwart terrorist plots and accidentally makes his family a target in the process.

“Patriot Games” is a must-read if you like action novels with a heavy dose of crime fiction, as the goal of saving his family takes Ryan on a thrilling journey across Maryland and other locales. Tom Clancy was born in Baltimore, and he passed away in Baltimore as well, making his work legendary across our state.

St. Clements Bluff

Written by Christine Trent, an author who lives in St. Mary’s County, “St. Clements Bluff” is the first in a series of fiction novels that explores life in the Southern Maryland region. The plot follows a mystery surrounding a widow named Raleigh Bishop who discovers the secrets of the historic Underground Railroad in a house she inherited.

“St. Clements Bluff” explores the complexities of grief and the Underground Railroad for an adult audience, making it the perfect read for Southern Marylanders who wish to experience stories written by local authors.

Maryland Legends: Folklore from the Old Line State

While the five novels above offer thrilling tales and plots, this bonus pick explores real Maryland folklore and legends. “Maryland Legends: Folklore from the Old Line State” covers a wide range of interesting tales from Maryland’s past, and it might just make you think twice about heading into the deep forests of our state by yourself.

Whether you want to know about the headless ghost of Big Liz or the demon car that haunts Seven Hills Road, this book will explore sides of Maryland that you didn’t even know existed.

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