Bitter Money

Thriller Books. 1920s San Francisco Mystery. A Bank Heist, Dual Identities, and Deception Beneath the Golden Gate. (Thriller Books Collection)

By: Heath Annalla

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

Length: 7 hrs and 49 mins

Publisher's summary

A thriller book set in San Francisco during the early 1920s.

Step into the chaotic world of 1920s San Francisco, where the gilded charm of the city masks a labyrinth of deceit, danger, and cunning criminal minds. Follow the enigma that begins with a staggering theft and propels a cast of intriguing characters into a spiral of mystery and suspense.

The serenity of the Van Ness Avenue Savings Bank is shattered by the discovery that nearly a million dollars has vanished, throwing the boardroom into disarray. When Hendricks, the cashier, reports that Edward Clayte, a teller, absconded with the money, the mystery deepens. Detective Boyne traces Clayte to his apartment but finds nothing but locked rooms, heightening the tension as the hunt for the missing man and money begins.

Captain Worth Gilbert, a war hero and a significant bank stockholder, reenters the scene with a surprising offer—to buy the missing suitcase for eight hundred thousand dollars. Temporary acceptance by the bank’s directors sets the stage for a desperate quest to prevent a financial catastrophe. Under Worth’s command, Boyne is tasked with a discreet and high-stakes pursuit of Clayte, blending cunning detective work with a need to uphold the bank’s reputation.

As Boyne digs deeper, he discovers layers of deception and drama. The investigation takes unexpected turns, leading to a masquerade ball where Barbara Wallace, a talented young operative, is severely injured in an attempt linked to the stolen fortune. Suspicion eventually falls on Bronson Lester, only to uncover that Lester is in fact Edward Clayte, an incredible illusionist who spent years perfecting a dual identity to execute his grand heist.

The exhilarating climax sees Boyne and his team finally cornering Clayte after uncovering the truth behind his meticulous planning. Clayte's confession sheds light on his criminal prowess and strategic plotting, though it’s ultimately an embattled confrontation that recovers the stolen money. The resolution intertwines personal and professional redemption, with Worth glittering in newfound wealth and fulfillment, and rekindling a profound connection with Barbara Wallace—borne from their shared ordeal and triumph.

Against a backdrop of early 20th-century San Francisco, this novel weaves a compelling tale of suspense, betrayal, and human resilience. It promises to captivate fans of historical and detective fiction alike, offering a thrilling literary journey through intrigue and revelation.

Reasons to Buy this Book:

• A gripping historical mystery set in the alluring cityscape of 1920s San Francisco.
• Engaging plot with intricate layers of suspense and thrilling twists.
• Dynamic characters including a cunning detective and a war-hero-turned-bank stockholder.
• Masterful depiction of dual identity and deception—key elements for mystery lovers.
• High-stakes drama involving a large-scale bank theft and personal intrigues.
• Rich historical details that transport readers to a bygone era.

Prepare to be enthralled by a tautly crafted narrative that seamlessly blends mystery, historical drama, and poignant personal growth. Join Detective Boyne and Captain Worth Gilbert on a thrilling journey of discovery and redemption that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Scroll up and click the "BUY NOW" button!