Drawn by the Current (The Windy City Saga, 3)
In Chicago in 1915, Olive is an insurance agent for MetLife, an unusual occupation for a woman at that time, and she is facing prejudice as she tries to get promoted and gain more responsibility. She also soon discovers that her friend Claire needs her help. She invites Claire to travel on the SS Eastland from Chicago to a picnic in Michigan City, Indiana, as a temporary respite and a chance to talk. When tragedy strikes, Claire makes an impossible request which places Olive in a position in which any choice she makes will compromise her values. Olive then volunteers for an opportunity to be an insurance investigator. Facing discrimination from her boss and threats from others, she tries to help families who have lost loved ones, while still keeping secrets herself. Although part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone.
This is a well-put-together story revolving around the 1915 capsizing of the SS Eastland, in which over 800 people were killed. The description of the disaster as it occurs is well done. There is another storyline involving abuse, and the fact that women in that time had little recourse for protection or escape. The bias against women in business in the early 20th century is also addressed, and all these storylines are woven together skillfully. The characters are all well developed, and the plot ranges from captivating to suspenseful to heartbreaking. Drawn by the Current takes us back to one of the worst maritime disasters in U.S. history and also reminds us of the plight of women in those days. Multi-layered and well-researched, this third book in the Windy City Saga series is not to be missed.
