Death of a New American (A Jane Prescott Novel)
In 1912, the world is reeling from the sinking of the Titanic. Americans and Europeans are distraught over the fact that over a thousand ordinary human beings died because of the lack of rescue boats. In New York itself, the Mafia or “Black Hand” is exerting its influence with multiple kidnappings and murders. Meanwhile, Louise Benchley is to marry William Tyler, whose father slanders Italians but protects certain Italian immigrants. Jane Prescott, ladies’ maid to the Benchley family, accompanies Louise to New York, where Jane is visibly impressed by the architectural design of Penn Station, which is described in considerable, majestic detail.
The evident emotional strain in the Tyler home evolves into the murder of Charles Tyler’s son’s maid, Sofia. The latter event is investigated by Jane and her journalist friend, Michael Behan. Anti-Italian attitudes increase until the presumption of innocence for the wealthy is blown apart with surprising results.
Progressive and perverse behavior thrives in these opening years of a new age. This novel is a different take on early 1900s noteworthy news – well-written historical fiction!
