Books matching: prohibition era
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- #1
Save:'A Trick of the Light' by Addison Cain is a Prohibition Era romance that follows the story of Charlie, a feisty and foul-mouthed bounty hunter, and Matthew, a mobster kingpin. The plot includes elements of secrets, betrayal, deceit, and violence, with graphic scenes of action, barroom brawls, and mob hits. The writing style is described as engaging, with a touch of different storytelling from the author's usual works, creating a vivid setting of the Prohibition era USA with accurate slang and colloquialisms.
2016•139 pages - #2
Save:A well-written, atmospheric crime novel with compelling characters and juicy historical detail - great for fans of gangster epics, but may not be ideal if you crave relentless pace or don't vibe with character-heavy stories.
'Live by Night' by Dennis Lehane is a prohibition-era gangster tale following the life of Joe Coughlin, a complex character who transitions from a petty criminal in Boston to a crime boss in Tampa and Cuba. Set against the backdrop of the chaotic times of prohibition, pervasive prejudice, and mafia rule, the plot unfolds in a fast-paced manner, moving between different locations and involving elements of action, love, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. The story captures the essence of the 1920s and 30s, exploring themes of race, freedom, religion, family, human nature, and love through a cast of unforgettable characters.
The writing style of the book is described as masterful, incredibly plotted, and characterized with a few new twists on the classic gangster path. Readers appreciate the depth of the characters, particularly Joe Coughlin, who is portrayed as an educated outlaw with a good heart but an irresistible urge towards the unlawful. is commended for its unique approach to the mobster genre, delving deeper into issues beyond violence and crime, and presenting a more nuanced and three-dimensional portrayal of characters and their moral dilemmas.
Some years later, on a tugboat in the Gulf of Mexico, Joe Coughlin’s feet were placed in a tub of cement. Twelve gunmen stood waiting until they got far enough out to sea to throw him overboard, while... - #3
Save:Sexy, suspenseful, and absolutely addictive - come for the flappers, stay for the feels. “Speak Easy” is a rollicking ride through 1920s Detroit that will keep you up way past your bedtime.
'Speak Easy' by Melanie Harlow is a thrilling New Adult Historical fiction set during the prohibition era. The story follows Tiny O'Mara, a strong-willed young woman who is involved in bootlegging whiskey to support her family. When her father gets kidnapped by a mobster, Tiny finds herself caught in a dangerous web of crime, love, and betrayal. As she navigates through steamy love triangles and risky situations, Tiny's character shines as a brave and determined flapper who will do anything to save her family and follow her dreams of becoming a nurse. The book is praised for its originality, vivid writing style, and the perfect blend of adventure, suspense, drama, and romance.
I nodded. If she’d answered waffles, or even pancakes, I’d have directed her to the east wall of the store, where tin cans of actual maple syrup were stacked three high on a shelf. But since she knew...July 2013•328 pages - #4
Save:A meticulously researched, twisty tale of crime, ambition, and shattered lives set in roaring Prohibition America - perfect for true crime and history buffs, though those seeking a breezy narrative may want to buckle up for a denser, detail-rich read.
The Ghosts of Eden Park: The Bootleg King, the Women Who Pursued Him, and the Murder That Shocked Jazz-Age America by Karen Abbott is a true crime saga set in the Jazz Age United States, delving into the life of George Remus, a prominent bootlegger during Prohibition. The book explores Remus's rise to power in the illicit liquor trade, his wealth accumulation, his tumultuous marriage to Imogene, and the betrayal that leads to murder. Through detailed research and inclusion of full dialogue from major players, the author presents a gripping narrative that unfolds like a thriller, culminating in one of the most sensational trials of the era.
The book provides a fascinating insight into the Prohibition era, showcasing the excesses of Remus's lifestyle, the legal and moral complexities of the time, and the role of key figures such as Mabel Walker Willebrandt, the U.S. Assistant Attorney General. With a focus on betrayal, murder, and courtroom drama, The Ghosts of Eden Park offers a vivid portrayal of a tumultuous period in American history, combining historical facts with a narrative style that keeps readers engaged till the end.
THE HOUSE SEEMED OUT of a Bavarian fairy tale, rambling and turreted, laced with gingerbread cornicing and columns arched like sharp, imperious brows. It was the finest house in Price Hill, the finest...August 2019•448 pages - #5
Save:A richly atmospheric, women-led supernatural thriller with social bite - perfect for readers who like their history weird and their heroines fierce, but less ideal for those seeking strict historical accuracy or subtle villains.
Creatures of Want and Ruin by Molly Tanzer is a historical supernatural fiction set in the Prohibition era Long Island, focusing on a young baywoman named Ellie West who gets involved in a sinister plot orchestrated by a cult of diabolists. The book explores themes of xenophobia, racism, religious prejudice, and misogyny, all intertwined with eldritch horror elements. Tanzer's writing style vividly evokes the early 20th-century rural maritime Long Island, creating a rich and immersive world that captivates readers.
The story follows Ellie's journey as she navigates through the supernatural and sinister occurrences around her, delving into the power dynamics fueled by prejudices and vices that everyday people supply to demons. Alongside Ellie, the book features diverse and complex characters like Fin, who undergoes significant growth and transformation throughout the narrative. Tanzer skillfully weaves together historical settings, intriguing characters, and relevant social commentary to create a compelling and haunting tale.
The wind was east and the tide was running high by the time Ellie West finished jamming all the crates of moonshine liquor into the smuggler’s hold of her skiff. Leaden bands of clouds were thickening...November 2018•353 pages
(Also, see 11 recommendations for the series Diabolist's Library ) - #6
Save:Set during the Prohibition Era, 'Blind Tiger' by Sandra Brown follows the story of a widow named Laurel and her involvement in the bootlegging industry, as well as her complex relationship with Deputy Sheriff Thatcher. The book intertwines romance and adventure, showcasing the attraction and repulsion between Laurel and Thatcher. The plot includes real scoundrels, with satisfying outcomes, and is narrated from multiple points of view, providing a well-rounded perspective on the characters and events. The writing style is described as gripping and engrossing, with a slow burn love story woven through suspense, murder, and action, capturing the essence of American history during a time of lawlessness and poverty.
Derby had been telling her that for the past two hours. He said the same four words at intervals that had become so regular she could now predict, to within a minute, the next repetition. His tone was...August 2021•546 pages - #7
Save:A spicy, ghostly romance with irresistible characters and a richly immersive Prohibition-era setting - ideal for those who want their historical fiction liberally sprinkled with paranormal and lots of heat.
In the book "Bitter Spirits" by Jenn Bennett, set in the Roaring Twenties, Winter, a bootlegger plagued by ghosts, seeks help from Aida Palmer, a spirit medium. As they work together to unravel the mystery behind Winter's curse, their mutual attraction grows amidst a backdrop of prohibition-era San Francisco. The story weaves elements of romance, paranormal intrigue, and historical fiction, capturing the reader's attention with its unique setting and sizzling chemistry between the main characters.
With a focus on the characters' emotional connection and the suspenseful plot involving past traumas and a disturbed villain, "Bitter Spirits" offers a blend of passionate romance, engaging characters, and cleverly interwoven paranormal elements. The book expertly immerses readers in the atmospheric setting of 1920s San Francisco and Chinatown, while delivering a fast-paced tale of restless spirits, dark magic, and bootlegging, making it a must-read for fans of historical paranormal romance.
AIDA PALMER’S TENSE FINGERS GRIPPED THE GOLD LOCKET around her neck as the streetcar came to a stop near Gris-Gris. It was almost midnight, and Velma had summoned her to the North Beach speakeasy on h...January 2014•327 pages - #8
Save:A fun, fast-paced supernatural mystery with classic noir vibes. Perfect for fans of detective stories and vintage vampire tales. Give it a try if you want a unique spin on urban fantasy!
'Bloodlist' in the series 'Vampire Files' by P.N. Elrod follows the story of Jack Fleming, a former investigative reporter who wakes up as a vampire and sets out to solve his own murder in the seedy underbelly of 1930s Chicago. The plot revolves around Jack's encounters with mobsters, his newfound vampire abilities such as turning into mist and hypnotism, and his journey into the world of vampires and detectives. The writing style is described as a mix of classic vampire lore and detective noir, creating a fast-paced, mysterious, and entertaining narrative set in a unique historical backdrop.
It was a well-engineered accident, involving no small skill on the part of the driver. A body, depending on its size and weight in relation to the speed and position of the car usually does two things...1990•200 pages A colorful, compelling peek behind the French Quarter’s velvet curtain - entertaining and eye-opening, especially for fans of New Orleans lore and true tales of notorious women.
'The Last Madam: A Life in the New Orleans Underworld' by Christine Wiltz is a captivating biography that delves into the life of Norma Wallace, a successful madam in New Orleans during the 1950s and 60s. The narrative not only focuses on Norma's rise to power but also provides a detailed insight into the city of New Orleans itself, exploring its history of corruption and the underworld where Norma thrived. The writing style is engaging and meticulously researched, bringing to life the characters and the intriguing backdrop of New Orleans in the 20th century.
Norma's journey from a tormented childhood to becoming the last madam of New Orleans is depicted with vivid details and compelling storytelling. sheds light on Norma's shrewd business sense, her discreet operations, and her ability to outsmart the police for years. Through the author's honest portrayal of Norma's life, readers are exposed to the darker aspects of New Orleans' past, including corruption, racism, and the intricate political dynamics of the city. Overall, 'The Last Madam' offers a fascinating portrait of a woman who defied societal norms and became a powerful figure in a city where vice and influence intertwined.
1999•276 pages- #10
Save:The Hot Kid is jazzy, character-driven, and drenched in Prohibition-era Americana - a fun ride if you love Elmore Leonard's wit and world-building, though the sprawling cast and loose plot may leave some readers dry-mouthed.
The Hot Kid by Elmore Leonard is a novel set in the 1920s and 1930s during the Prohibition era, focusing on the life of U.S. Marshal Carl Webster. The book follows Webster's encounters with notorious outlaws, particularly Jack Belmont, as they navigate a world filled with gangsters, gun molls, and wild west-style gunfights. Leonard's writing style is characterized by vivid characterization, engaging dialogue, and a reimagining of historical events with a focus on nuanced characters and intricate plotlines.
He told Bud Maddox, the Okmulgee chief of police, he had driven a load of cows up to the yard at Tulsa and by the time he got back it was dark. He said he left the truck and stock trailer across the s...May 2005•398 pages
