Shadows Over Broadway

By Jean Mullis

"Shadows Over Broadway" weaves a captivating tale set in the dazzling yet dangerous world of 1920s Broadway, where ambition meets peril. This romantic thriller follows a rising star actress and a detective disguised as a playwright who unite to confront threats that jeopardize her debut. Amidst rehearsals and encounters with the mob, their undeniable attraction grows. However, as they draw closer to unveiling the truth, they risk everything—their lives and their chance at love. Set against the backdrop of Broadway's golden age, their story explores themes of sacrifice, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of dreams in the shadow of looming dangers. This tale is a blend of suspenseful intrigue and heartfelt romance, capturing the essence of an era where glamour and danger dance hand in hand.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cullen Pinkburry
• Release date: Feb 21, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224306374

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Shadows Over Broadway

Jean Mullis

Copyright © 2024 by Jean F.Mullis.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any form whatsoever without written permission except in the case of brief quotations in critical articles or reviews.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, organizations, places, events and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Printed in the United States of America.

CONTENTS

Jean F. Mullis

CONTENTS

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1

The Bright Lights of Broadway

The vibrant streets of Broadway were alive, pulsating with the energy of the Roaring Twenties. Neon signs flickered against the backdrop of a dusky sky, casting a kaleidoscope of colors on the throngs of people below. Among them was Evelyn Shaw, her eyes wide with a mix of anticipation and nerves. Tonight, she wasn't just another face in the crowd; she was on the brink of becoming Broadway's next sensation.

Evelyn navigated through the bustling streets with a grace that belied her racing heart. The marquee lights of the grand theaters beckoned, promising glamour and fame. Yet, as she approached the Majestic Theatre, where her debut would soon take place, a shadow of apprehension tempered her excitement. She had dreamed of this moment for as long as she could remember, but now that it was within reach, the weight of her ambition felt heavier than the skyscrapers towering over her.

Inside the theater, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. Cast and crew moved with a frenetic energy, their voices a symphony of last-minute preparations. Evelyn slipped into the chaos unnoticed, making her way to the sanctuary of her dressing room. The small, mirror-lined space was a stark contrast to the opulence of the theater, yet it was here that she felt most at home.

As she prepared for the evening's rehearsal, Evelyn's reflection stared back at her, a reminder of the journey that had brought her to this precipice. She had left behind a small town and a family who couldn't understand her dreams, trading familiarity for the unpredictable embrace of New York City. Broadway was a world apart, a place where dreams were both made and shattered. And tonight, Evelyn stood on the edge, ready to leap.

Knock, knock, a cheerful voice broke through her reverie. Maria Gonzalez, Evelyn's best friend and fellow actress, breezed into the room with the familiarity of someone who had been there through it all.

Maria, you scared me, Evelyn laughed, her tension easing at the sight of her friend. I'm just trying to get into the zone.

Maria approached, her smile infectious. You're going to be brilliant, Evie. I've seen you rehearse. There's no one better for this role.

Evelyn met her friend's gaze in the mirror, gratitude mingling with fear. What if I'm not? What if this is all a mistake?

Nonsense, Maria dismissed the notion with a wave of her hand. You were born for the stage. Besides, I'll be right there in the wings, cheering you on.

Their conversation was a balm to Evelyn's frayed nerves. Maria had been her rock, a constant in a world that was anything but. As they talked, Evelyn's confidence began to return. She was ready to take on Broadway, to prove that she belonged among the stars.

The evening's rehearsal was a blur of movement and emotion. Evelyn poured everything into her performance, her voice filling the theater with a power she had never felt before. As the final notes echoed in the empty auditorium, a silence fell—a moment of collective breath-holding before the director, Thomas Reed, finally spoke.

Excellent, Evelyn. Just excellent, he said, his tone conveying the high expectations he held. Remember, the opening night is just a week away. Let's make sure we're ready to give Broadway a show they'll never forget.

The cast's collective relief was palpable, their laughter ringing through the grand auditorium of the Majestic Theatre. Evelyn, caught in the moment, allowed herself a brief respite from the relentless push of ambition. Thomas Reed, their director, a man known for his exacting standards and seldom given to praise, clapped his hands, gathering the cast's attention.

Tonight, he began, his voice echoing off the ornate walls, you all surpassed my expectations. But remember, perfection is our only acceptable standard. Evelyn, your performance, he paused, his gaze finding hers, was transcendent. You are the heartbeat of this production.

Evelyn blushed under his gaze, her heart soaring with the validation. Around her, the cast's nods and smiles offered a tapestry of support, a family forged in the fires of shared dreams. Maria squeezed her shoulder, whispering, See? Even Thomas can't deny your talent.

Yet, as they filed out of the theater, the camaraderie of the cast couldn't entirely shield her from the nagging doubts. The streets of Broadway, now quiet, seemed to whisper warnings with every gust of wind. Evelyn's thoughts turned inward, the earlier threats casting long shadows over her moment of triumph.

Reaching her dressing room, Evelyn found a note slipped under her door. Her heart skipped a beat as she unfolded the paper, her hands trembling. The message was clear, its words a stark contrast to the encouragement she'd just received: Consider this your final warning. Leave the play, or face the consequences.

The room, once a haven of dreams and preparation, felt suddenly claustrophobic, its walls closing in on her. Evelyn sank into a chair, the note clutched in her hand. The reality of her situation was undeniable. The threats were no longer just words; they were a palpable danger, lurking in the very shadows of her Broadway dreams.

Maria, noticing her absence, returned to find Evelyn pale and shaken. Evelyn, what's wrong? she asked, concern etching her features.

Evelyn handed her the note, the fear she'd been trying to suppress now evident in her eyes. Maria read the message, her brow furrowing in anger. This is serious, Evelyn. We need to go to the police.

No, Evelyn protested, a mix of fear and stubbornness in her voice. I can't let this stop me. If I give in now, I'll never know if I could have made it.

But at what cost? Maria countered, her voice a blend of frustration and worry. Your safety is more important than any role.

Evelyn stood, her resolve hardening. I've worked too hard to let some coward hiding behind anonymous threats scare me away. I'm going to do this, Maria. With or without their approval.

Maria sighed, recognizing the determination in her friend's eyes. Then I'm with you, she said, her loyalty unwavering. "But we're not facing this alone. We'll find out who's