Whispers in a Phone Booth: A Depression-Era Tale of Danger and Deception

Whispers in a Phone Booth: A Depression-Era Tale of Danger and Deception

Family secrets can be more deadly than a gun. A Polish immigrant family’s world is torn apart in 1930s Chicago when estranged sister Martha comes to town with secrets and a hidden motive. She uses her captivating beauty to lure Helen’s oldest son, Wally, into her web of deception, crime, and destruction. After Martha’s visit, the neighborhood is beset by two perfect, high-profile robberies, leaving the police baffled. Only mysterious secrets whispered in a pharmacy’s phone booth, if shared in time, might save Martha, Wally, and many others from the very incarnation of evil. But, will a brilliant recluse and an enigmatic outcast overcome their own lives of loneliness and isolation in time to save much more than just one family's destruction? If you're looking for a compelling historical thriller, this novel is a must-read. It has the perfect blend of history, suspense, and intrigue." -Reviewed by Ibrahim Aslan for Readers' Favorite Loved it! "A theme that runs through the book is that of the choices we make in life, and the premise that we can decide or choose what happens when unexpected and random tragedy strikes. As it races towards the inevitable, the story leaves one with an ending that is both sad and feel-good. Justice is done but the Great War and the Depression took its toll on many." -Reedsy Discovery " Reed takes readers on a transformative journey through hardship, determination, and family secrets , centered on Helen's son, Wally, and his life growing up as the child of immigrants in Chicago. Whispers in a Phone Booth delivers as much history as it does plot, gifting readers with a glimpse of 20th century life from the perspective of multiple nations and people." -The BookLife Prize " Whispers in a Phone Booth is a historical thriller that will instantly reel you in and hold your interest until the end. I was quickly drawn into the narrative, readily embracing the backstories and unique circumstances of each person. Every twist and turn is completely unexpected, keeping readers in suspense as the plot gradually unfolds. If you're looking for a compelling historical thriller, this novel is a must-read. It has the perfect blend of history, suspense, and intrigue." Reviewed by Ibrahim Aslan for Readers' Favorite About the author Joseph Reed, writing under the name J. Daniel Reed , is an independent real estate investor and author. After a successful commercial real estate career, he now embraces his love of creative writing, dedicated to entertain and enlighten readers through his works of fiction. Born on the Northwest side of Chicago, into a three-generation household, he was raised by a committee—grandparent, parents, and three older siblings. Joe lives in suburban Chicago with his wife and publisher, Barbara and their two Bouvier des Flandres. When not writing, he loves outdoor photography, taking walks with his dogs, nature hikes, gardening, birdwatching, cooking, and grilling.