RELAXATION

Top Books to Read at Your Galena Bed and Breakfast Retreat

Not every vacation to Galena needs to be about filling every moment with exciting adventures and immersive tours, suggests the Goldmoor Inn. Sometimes it is enough just to plan some quiet moments surrounded by luxury at a bed and breakfast and escape into the world of a great book. 

A bed and breakfast such as the Goldmoor Inn offers an idyllic setting for immersing oneself in the pleasure of a good book. Nestled in cozy rooms with charming décor, guests can find a peaceful retreat to indulge in literature. The tranquil ambiance, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allows for uninterrupted reading sessions. Imagine curling up in a plush armchair near a crackling fireplace or lounging on a sun-soaked porch surrounded by nature’s beauty. The personalized service of a bed and breakfast ensures a comfortable experience, with delightful amenities like freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries to accompany your literary journey. It’s the perfect haven for book lovers to escape, unwind, and get lost in the captivating world of words.

For those planning their next bed and breakfast retreat, here are some books that are based on, feature, or are about Galena, IL. 

Anything But Civil

Anna Loan-Wilsey

Historical Fiction, Cozy Mystery

Immersed in the alluring embrace of a picturesque Illinois town, Hattie Davish, accompanied by her trusty typewriter, embarks on an enthralling odyssey where the fading echoes of the Civil War intertwine with mystery, enticing her to unveil their secrets.

Eager to lend her capable assistance to the esteemed English scholar Sir Arthur Windom-Greene, whose profound knowledge of Civil War history astounds, Hattie finds herself immersed in the ambitious endeavor of crafting an indelible biography of General Cornelius Starrett. Their quest leads them to the idyllic haven of Galena, Illinois, where the hands of time have scarcely mended the wounds inflicted by the war. Within the town’s fabric, an enduring ambiance of suspicion and betrayal casts an ethereal veil, shrouding the minds of its inhabitants. Among them, the haughty and enigmatic Henry, son of General Starrett, emerges as a figure immersed in shadows, entwined in a web of peculiar and unsettling incidents. When Henry’s life is abruptly extinguished, Hattie’s instincts urge her to unravel the intricate tapestry connecting his demise to the enigmatic occurrences that have plagued the town.

Balancing her obligations to Sir Arthur, the preparations for the forthcoming Christmas festivities, and unexpected visits from her own enigmatic past, Hattie finds herself ensnared in a labyrinth of concealed truths and treacherous deceit, where answers evade her grasp and questions multiply ceaselessly. Henry possessed a proclivity for mischief, attracting adversaries like moths to a flame, thereby presenting an abundance of potential suspects, including the enigmatic Sir Arthur himself. Now, Hattie must navigate the treacherous waters of this uncivil situation, resolutely pursuing the elusive truth while upholding her grace and composure amidst the whirlwind of adversity.

Undeterred by the daunting challenges that lie ahead, Hattie Davish embraces the exhilarating endeavor of untangling this captivating murder mystery, peeling back the layers of deception that cloak the veneer of polite society, and unearthing the concealed verities that lie at the heart of the enigmatic town of Galena.

Ghost Horse

Patricia Rosemoor

Fiction Historical Mystery 

An Ominous Presence Looms. With the task of tutoring Damian Graylord’s daughter during the summer, Chloe Morgan arrives at the enigmatic Graylord Pastures, concealing her true purpose from the rugged horse breeder. In her heart, Chloe suspects Damian, the dark and brooding master of the estate, of being involved in the baffling disappearance of her closest friend, the previous teacher. Plagued by visions of a spectral horse galloping through the mist, Chloe becomes convinced that the apparition is guiding her toward the truth. Yet, amidst unexplained mishaps and Damian’s overwhelming intensity, she finds herself in danger of veering off course. Can she unravel the enigma of the ghostly horse and disclose her own hidden secrets without sacrificing her life and losing the man who embodies her dreams?

Chasing Sunshine

A.L. Shea

Fiction

Detective Adam Emerson, a tenacious investigator driven by an insatiable hunger to prove himself, navigates the relatively calm homicide division of Galena, IL, with unwavering determination. Embracing the allure of a seemingly low-stress lifestyle, Adam spends his days taunting his partner with mischievous antics, relentlessly searching for his elusive brother, and battling the formidable task of exposing the ruthless crime lords who reign over the Illinois underworld.

A Sinister Obsession

Liam Cavanaugh emerges as the newest malefactor in a long lineage of seasoned criminals. Shielded by an impeccable reputation and deep pockets, Liam has skillfully evaded the clutches of justice for as long as memory serves. However, a betrayal from his trusted right-hand man sets in motion a chain of events that threatens to upend everything he holds dear.

A Desperate Flight for Survival

Claire McBride has always been accustomed to bearing the burden of the family’s black sheep status. Yet, becoming the last surviving member was an unimaginable blow. In the blink of an eye, her innocent infatuation with her older brother’s best friend transforms into a terrifying reality as she uncovers the nightmarish secrets he has hidden from her.

A Deadly Triangle

Caught in the crossfire of the Emerson-Cavanaugh conflict, tragedy and destruction haunt every step Claire takes. Both men, consumed by an obsessive desire to possess her, are willing to go to any lengths, even resorting to murder. As Claire races against time to protect Adam’s life, she finds herself entangled in a web of darkness that enshrouds her world, relentlessly seeking the truth.

The Unveiling of Truth

The impending revelation threatens to engulf them all in a conflagration of secrets. Yet, in the face of such dire circumstances, some secrets are best left buried, forever lost in the shadows.

Galena, Illinois: A Brief History 

Diann Marsh

Non-Fiction

Immersed in a tapestry of bygone eras, Galena unveils its rich historical legacy, with over 85 percent of its buildings earning a revered spot on the National Register of Historic Places. From the towering ancient burial mounds that grace the mighty banks of the Mississippi to the hallowed residence of President Ulysses S. Grant, this Illinois town stands as a living testament to the captivating tales of its past. Join Diann Marsh as she embarks on an intrepid quest to unravel the threads of this mesmerizing heritage, offering glimpses into unforgettable moments etched in the annals of time.

Within these pages, discover the indomitable spirit of Galena’s settlers as they valiantly defended their homes during the fierce Black Hawk War. Witness the spectacle of a bridge-snapping flood that forever transformed a single day in 1892. Here, fortunes are made and lost at the turn of a page as the echoes of Galena’s determined citizens reverberate through the ages. Through the unwavering dedication of guardians like Marsh, the cherished legacy of this remarkable town remains safeguarded, destined to endure for generations to come.

Ulysses S. Grant 

Josiah Bunting

Non-Fiction 

In the realm of military strategy, Ulysses S. Grant stands as an indomitable figure, revered for his pivotal role in shifting the tides of the Civil War. From accepting General Lee’s surrender at Appomattox to his unwavering determination that propelled the war toward a resolute victory, Grant’s leadership evokes awe-inspiring accolades. However, when the spotlight turns to his presidency, a different narrative emerges—one colored by the word “scandal.”

Often painted as a man ill-suited to the demands of governance, Grant is characterized as one who naively placed trust in others, inadvertently inviting unprecedented plunder of the federal coffers. Yet, this portrayal fails to capture the nuanced reality of Grant’s tenure, as elucidated by the insightful assessment presented by Josiah Bunting.

In 1869, Grant ascended to power in a nation and capital still reeling from the bitter divisions carved by four years of civil strife. His predecessor, Andrew Johnson, had faced impeachment, while the Radical Republicans in Congress sought to impose stringent conditions on the Southern states before readmitting them to the Union. Amidst this fraught landscape, Grant assumed the mantle of leadership, dedicating himself to the arduous task of forging a reunified nation. Bunting’s penetrating analysis reveals that, despite the challenges that permeated Grant’s presidential term, he successfully navigated the treacherous terrain, often leveraging his own popularity with the American people as a powerful tool.

While Grant’s reputation as a military luminary remains untarnished, it is imperative to acknowledge that his presidential legacy deserves more nuanced recognition. His steadfast commitment to reuniting the states into a cohesive whole amidst the trials and tribulations of his administration underscores his true capabilities as a leader. Grant’s presidency, despite its flaws, merits a reevaluation—one that recognizes his achievements beyond the shadows of scandal and acknowledges his profound impact on the fabric of American history.

Mrs. Grant and Madame Jule 

Jennifer Chiaverini

Fiction

Unveiling an extraordinary narrative from the pen of acclaimed New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Chiaverini, immerse yourself in a tale that unearths the untold bond between Julia Grant, a revered First Lady, and the resolute woman who shared her name—an enslaved person whose indomitable spirit defied the shackles of oppression.

In the year 1844, destiny wove its intricate threads as a demure belle from Missouri, Julia Dent, crossed paths with Lieutenant Ulysses S. Grant—a man of brilliance in the saddle and a soldier with a reluctant heart. Amidst the swirling tempest of their hearts, love ignited, casting its ethereal glow upon their souls. However, the abolitionist convictions of Grant’s family cast a somber shadow over their union, for they refused to bless their sacred vows. And so it was that, against her husband’s objections, Julia held steadfast to another Julia—an enslaved woman affectionately known as Jule.

From their tenderest years, these two souls had forged a bond, intertwining their lives as confidantes and companions. Blessed with the gift of prophetic dreams, Julia found solace in Jule’s wisdom as she unraveled the enigmatic tapestry of her visions. Behind closed doors, Julia clandestinely imparted the sacred knowledge of literacy to Jule, while Jule, in turn, became the eyes that beheld the world for her vision-impaired mistress. Yet, as General Grant ascended the ranks of the Union army during the tumultuous era of the Civil War, the stark delineations between mistress and slave strained the delicate fabric of their unlikely friendship. In the face of relentless adversity, both women dared to traverse perilous paths, navigating the treacherous terrain that led them to and from General Grant’s military bastion. And amidst the winds of change, with the proclamation of emancipation echoing through the land, Jule mustered her unwavering courage, embarking on a daring gambit for freedom that would forever alter the course of their lives.

The Road to Shiloh: Early Battles in the West

David Nevin

Non-Fiction 

Etched into the annals of history, the Battle of Shiloh stands as a testament to the fierce clash that erupted along the banks of the Tennessee River near the turbulent border with Mississippi. In a desperate bid to thwart the advance of the Union forces, under the command of the illustrious Ulysses S. Grant, the Confederates waged a valiant struggle, seeking to safeguard the pivotal railroad junction nestled in Corinth, Mississippi.

As the fateful confrontation unfolded, the opposing forces stood poised, an equilibrium of strength upon the hallowed battleground. Yet, the rebels understood the pressing need for expediency, cognizant of the imperious necessity to outmaneuver Grant’s resolute troops and the formidable Union General Don Carlos Buell, their convergence imminent on the western banks of the Tennessee River.

Dawn broke on the fateful day of April 6th, 1862, casting its ethereal light upon the theater of war. Union scouts, their senses attuned to the impending storm, were caught off guard, their breaths stolen by the awe-inspiring sight that met their eyes—a formidable phalanx of over nine thousand Confederate soldiers barreling forth with unwavering resolve.

The Illinois

James Gray 

Unveiled to the world in the year 1940, The Illinois weaves a mesmerizing tapestry chronicling the epic saga of the illustrious Illinois River and the indomitable souls who inhabited the heartland of central Illinois. Through a symphony of vibrant prose, the author casts an enchanting spell, summoning forth the spirits of revered figures who once graced this storied land. Among the luminaries that grace the pages of this opus are the intrepid French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, the tireless circuit rider Peter Cartwright, the unwavering abolitionist Elijah P. Lovejoy, and the enigmatic political maven Stephen A. Douglas.

Within the pages of this extraordinary chronicle, the reader bears witness to the harrowing Indian massacre at the awe-inspiring Starved Rock, immerses themselves in the vibrant tapestry of life in the French villages that once adorned the fertile Illinois Country, and stands in awe of the trials and tribulations endured by the intrepid pioneers who carved a path through the untamed wilderness. From the enchanting era of steamboat days in Peoria to the modern-day ballet of towboats gracefully navigating the river’s currents, every facet of the Illinois River’s history comes alive, pulsating with a breathtaking and irresistible vividness.

Prepare to embark on an odyssey of unparalleled grandeur as The Illinois paints an unparalleled portrait, capturing the essence of a region, its people, and its extraordinary journey through the annals of time.

American Ulysses: A Life of Ulysses S. Grant

Ronald C. White

Non-Fiction

From the acclaimed author of A. Lincoln, this is a groundbreaking biography delving into the life of a truly remarkable general—one of America’s greatest yet persistently misunderstood presidents.

A finalist for the prestigious Gilder-Lehrman Military History Book Prize, this New York Times Best Seller shatters conventional perceptions of Ulysses S. Grant, a luminary often grouped alongside esteemed figures like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln in the revered “Trinity of Great American Leaders.” However, as the twentieth century progressed, Grant’s legacy began to wane. Now, in the twenty-first century, Ronald C. White, in his magnum opus, American Ulysses, urges us to reassess our understanding of this remarkable individual.

Drawing upon an unprecedented seven-year investigation, meticulously analyzing primary documents—many of which remained unseen by prior Grant scholars—this definitive biography promises to stand the test of time. White, an exceptionally skilled biographer, adeptly unveils the complex layers of Grant’s character, revealing him to be a man of profound generosity, curiosity, and introspection. As both a commander and a leader, Grant possessed a unique talent for effectively managing the volatile personalities of his fellow officers—a skill that truly sets him apart. Moreover, Julia Dent Grant, his wife, whose historical significance has been unjustly marginalized, emerges as a spirited and influential partner in her own right.

Beyond his military genius, Grant fervently championed equal rights in post-Civil War America. Upon assuming the presidency in 1868, he wielded the power of the federal government in a relentless battle against the Ku Klux Klan. Notably, he became the first president to condemn the immoral treatment of American Indians openly, and he embarked on an unprecedented world tour as the first ex-president. Grant’s indomitable courage is further exemplified by his race against time to complete his Personal Memoirs, a literary masterpiece published by Mark Twain. Regarded as the quintessential autobiography by an American leader, this seminal work has, until now, remained an unexplored facet of Grant’s life story.

Immersing readers in a transformative journey, American Ulysses is one of those rare books that revolutionize our perception of an iconic historical figure. With meticulous precision, White crafts a vivid, three-dimensional portrait of Grant, encapsulating his multifaceted roles as a man, a husband, a father, a leader, and a writer. This captivating narrative sets an exceptional standard against which all future biographies of Grant will undoubtedly be measured.

Bookstores in Galena

Galena Book & Paper

306 S Main St · (815) 281-9404

Main Street Fine Books & Manuscripts

9304 Saturn Ln · (815) 777-3749

Booking a Stay at the Goldmoor Inn

Perched majestically atop the Mississippi River, the historic Goldmoor Inn stands as an unparalleled bed and breakfast experience in Galena. With breathtaking vistas that encompass the river’s splendor, this charming inn offers an enchanting retreat like no other. Visitors can immerse themselves in luxurious whirlpool suites adorned with private fireplaces, creating the perfect atmosphere to escape into a great book. 

For those seeking adventure, the inn’s proximity to Chestnut Mountain provides an array of thrilling activities. With spa services, gourmet dining, and Tesla charging stations, the Goldmoor Inn is an ideal destination for corporate retreats, weddings, honeymoons, or intimate getaways. Unveil the magic of Galena from the comfort of our beautifully decorated cabins, cottages, and suites, just moments away from the heart of downtown. 

About the Goldmoor Inn Galena Bed and Breakfasts

If it’s time to escape, it’s time to plan a visit to the Goldmoor Inn. The bed and breakfast is the perfect place to get away from the cares of the world and finally indulge in a great book. Regularly rated the best Galena bed and breakfast, the Goldmoor Inn is renowned for providing a beautifully indulgent experience that embraces the uniqueness of each season. It is ideally located only a short drive from many locations and near all local attractions. 

For more information about booking a stay, you can visit the website or reach helpful staff by calling (815) 777-3925.