Scott's Tulsa

Set in 1948, the specter of a real communist threat, the beginnings of social change, and the gritty nature of Scott's world make up the background for his exploits. Historical Tulsa is the milieu, but major events including the 1934 Babe Ruth barnstorming tour of Japan, and the OSS (and later CIA) VENONA file on Soviet spying play roles. Hired by Madam Queena Capps to solve a prostitute's murder, Wyatt Scott navigates all sections of town, from the infamous May Rooms brothel to the Tulsa Club elite. Blackmailers, shadowy figures, and additional murders follow his work, leading him in different directions, while his past intrudes on his life, thoughts, and beliefs. Scott's cynicism continues to paint his view of humanity; and the dark underbelly of proceedings does nothing to sway his thinking. Events and the backdrop inhabit the times and places detailed. The buildings, businesses, politicians, laws, and institutions described are authentic to 1948 Tulsa. These historical realities blend with Scott and his fictional cohorts to present a story that could have easily unfolded like the tale told. Themes of cynical mistrust, pursuit of justice despite official interference, and playing outside the conventional lines of justice reverberate through the novel. Questionable characters, elite snobs, floozies, spies, and murderers inhabit Wyatt Scott's Tulsa.