The Intriguing Times Substack is now live!

Intriguing Times – my new Substack newsletter – has been live for almost three weeks. It already has 35 subscribers and over 90 followers, which is pretty damned good if I say so myself.

I had made a previous attempt at a Substack called the Cosmic Scroll, which was a weekly roundup of everything that was happening in realms of science fiction and fantasy. After six weeks it had gathered one subscriber (who was just being nice) and 15 followers. So I think I can conclusively say that interesting and quirky stories from ancient history to modern times, seems a better fit on the platform.

What is Intriguing Times all about?

It is about stuff that is interesting but true. Essentially, it is the same theme as what I write on Medium. Intriguing Times is all about true-life tales from across history and around the world that are fascinating, odd, quirky and… well… intriguing.

At present, it is all free. So if this sounds like something you might enjoy, check out one (or all) of the stories below.

This is why Japan is now infested with raccoons.

Did a Pope’s hatred of cats lead to the plague?

The greatest heist in Canada’s history wasn’t what you’d think.

The real reason photos are banned in the Sistine Chapel.

As I said, Intriguing Times is new, so there are only a few articles up. The plan is to add one a week, at a minimum.

I have been meaning to write on Substack for a while now, and my first attempt wasn’t the most encouraging. I have had a few people say they miss the scifi and fantasy stuff, but it took a lot of time for very little engagement. I enjoy writing as a way to connect with like-minded souls and happily, I have a ton of interests.

Are you thinking of starting a Substack?

Go for it! I am not expecting big bucks from mine – it is all currently free – but it is a fun endeavour, and I have already (virtually) met a lot of new people who love history and odd but true stories.

If you decide to give it a go, let me know, and we can follow each other. Come join the fun!

You can find me and Intriguing Times by clicking on this. See you there!