Neutrality Act
A historical mystery set in 1939 Atlanta, this story follows Mark Morgan, a disgraced former Coca-Cola executive, who takes a well-paid job investigating threats against German delegates at the Baptist World Alliance. What begins as a week’s work turns out dangerous when Mark encounters Nazi spies, murdered Jewish refugees, Klan influence, counterfeit money and political intrigue.
Beaten and nearly killed, Mark finds himself caught between the dazzling Anna Erlanger who may be a Nazi agent, and clever Emma Connor, the friend who challenges his assumptions. As Germany invades Poland, Mark chooses his side while the investigation forces him to confront his loyalties and moral choices. Atlanta comes alive as racism, political corruption and extremism echo Europe. While Mark’s relationship with Emma brings him into danger, Anna’s disappearance shows Mark that standing aside could be another choice
This tense story reflects the realities of Atlanta in 1939, from the Baptist World Alliance to racial segregation, political rivalries, and the growing shadow of Nazi Germany. Mark and those around him are engagingly portrayed, their conflicting loyalties and fears deepening the mystery as investigators, Nazi agents, policemen, or ordinary people become entangled in a dangerous conspiracy.
The historical detail gives the novel a convincing sense of time and place, while the escalating twists keep the tension high as America struggles with isolationism and Europe moves towards war. The relationships between Mark, Emma and the enigmatic Anna add emotional depth to the investigation, and Mark’s gradual awakening from self-interest to moral responsibility gives the story its heart. Highly recommended for readers of historical mysteries, Nazi espionage, political intrigue and 1930s American history.
