The Mayor of Maxwell Street

In Avery Cunningham's debut novel set in the tumultuous world of early 20th century Chicago, a wealthy Black debutante, Nelly Sawyer, partners with Jay Shorey, a low-level speakeasy manager, to uncover the head of a dangerous crime syndicate. As they navigate the complexities of Prohibition-era society, Nelly's aspirations as an investigative journalist clash with Jay's gritty experiences in the underworld. Together, they grapple with themes of racial tension, class struggle, and an emerging love that challenges the societal norms of their time. This epic tale weaves a captivating narrative of resilience and ambition amid the roaring '20s.