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Coming Soon! The Girl in the Newsroom
Have you been following along on what lays ahead for Ruth on her new adventure? I am can’t wait to bring you “The Girl in the Newsroom” later this year. In the meantime, here are some sneak peeks into what Ruth has been up to!
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Unlocking Doors
Ruth has been in New York for years now, but there is part of the city that she has never been part of, a world separate from her own. When her friends offer to open new doors for her, will she be willing to follow? And if she does, will she live to regret it? This is the TENTH Sneak Peek drop for “The Girl in the Newsroom”. If you missed any you can find them all linked below or on my Goodreads.
The Girl in the Newsroom
September 1922
Ruth and Chayele’s heels clicked on the pavement. It was hot despite the coming dusk, and Ruth felt stifled. This was the time when respectable citizens retired home for the evening, yet the “city that never sleeps” was filled with noise. The whoosh of cars driving past. The scrape of smelly trash cans dragged to the curb. The slamming and locking of storefront shutters. From somewhere in the distance, music floated through the night air and voices called out.
Ruth — who had always considered herself part of the respectable community—was usually safely home by now, but Chayele had insisted. Friedrich was working the night shift, but Chayele couldn’t stand another moment in her hot apartment. She needed a night out. So, she’d dragged Ruth to join her.
“Almost there!” she sang out now as they rounded a corner past some shops and tea rooms. Ruth had never been to Greenwich Village. All she knew was that they were meeting some nurses from the hospital somewhere.
Chayele had gussied Ruth up in a sleeveless black beaded number, even going so far as sticking a headpiece with feathers in Ruth’s hair. The whole dress clinked and jiggled as Ruth walked. Chayele was sporting a jade green fringed dress. She’d also darkened her eyes with a new plum eyeshadow.
Chayele had been vague with details for the night, which made Ruth nervous. Something finally clicked.
“Are you taking me to one of those speakeasy things?” she asked.
Chayele turned with a finger to her lips. “No one says that out loud!”
She tucked her arm into Ruth’s and leaned close. “But, maybe.” Her eyes twinkled with mischief. Ruth felt her stomach drop.
“I don’t know about this, Chayele.”
Even Ruth, who was not much of a drinker, had heard of all the illegal clubs springing up around the city. How could she not? Prohibition had barely curbed the party culture in New York City. It had just driven it underground.
Chayele squeezed Ruth’s arm. “I can see those worry lines forming. It will be fine. Even police attend these clubs when they’re off-duty.”
“What if it gets raided?”
Chayele rolled her eyes. “That hardly ever happens. And if it does, it’s usually a political maneuver to settle some kind of political grudge. What’s the worst that happens to people like us? We see the inside of a jail cell for a few hours?” She waved her hand. “Been there, done that. We can see how much the jails have improved since last time and you can write a report on current conditions for your newspaper.”
Ruth let out an involuntary chuckle, and Chayele smiled. She gave a little dance knowing Ruth was about to cave.
This was why their friendship worked. Ruth knew she could be a wet blanket at times. Left to her own devices she’d be home playing pinochle right now. But how could she not be cautious, considering her past? She needed Chayele to force her out of her comfort zone. In turn, Ruth would try to stop Chayele from doing anything stupidly reckless.
“Fine,” Ruth said.
Chayele squealed and clapped her hands.
“But the first sign of trouble, we’re out.”
Chayele held up a hand. “I solemnly swear.”
Ruth shook her head. “What will I do with you?”
Chayele tucked her arm back into Ruth’s. “You love me. You know it.”
Ruth sighed. “I do, you crazy meshugenah.”
Chayele tilted her head into Ruth’s as they turned onto a dim side street. A streetlamp flickered, and another one was out. There were only a few buildings, which appeared to be old warehouses. Ruth felt tingles of concern creep up her spine.
Chayele dropped Ruth’s arm and strode confidently towards a metal door. Ruth wondered how she knew which one–there were no identifying features, none of the special-colored lights or symbols she’d heard about. Chayele knocked three times.
They waited. At last, the door squeaked open.
“What’s the password?”
“Banshee hunter,” Chayele said, winking at Ruth.
Ruth just shook her head in wonder. How strange. What even was a banshee?
The door swung open, and an elegant man in top hat and tails appeared. He gestured to the interior. “Welcome ladies. We have a band playing tonight.”
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A Feeling She’d Never Felt Before.
Ruth’s world has become so big, but could there be mountains for her to climb that she hadn’t even considered? It had never crossed her mind that she could be selling herself short, and once the seed is planted, how high will she try to climb? This is the NINTH Sneak Peek drop for “The Girl in the Newsroom”. If you missed any you can find them all linked below or on my Goodreads.
The Girl in the Newsroom
May 1922
“David, why are we here?”
He laughed. “You mean aside from enjoying the beautiful day?”
She narrowed her gaze at him. But internally, her stomach flipped uneasily. And her grouchiness amplified. Was he about to ruin their easy camaraderie? She did not want to be put on the spot right now.
David pointed down to the field. “We’re here to enjoy the game and check out the story unfolding on the field.”
She let out a nervous breath. Barukh HaShem, it wasn’t a date! But, his response puzzled her. “What story is that?”
He signaled a Cracker Jacks vendor passing by and bought two boxes. “It’s Babe Ruth’s first game with his new salary.” He passed her a Cracker Jacks box.
Ruth opened the box of Cracker Jacks and took her first handful of perfect salty, sweet flavor.
“All right, enlighten me. I don’t follow baseball. Why is this a big deal?”
“It’s a big deal because he now makes fifty-two thousand dollars a year.”
Ruth choked on her Cracker Jacks and began to cough. Finally, she took a deep breath and croaked, “You’re joking.”
David shook his head.
“That’s obscene. For playing baseball?”
The crowd began to cheer as the players trotted out to the field and the game began.
David leaned over to her. “That’s why I’m writing an op-ed.”
Ruth tilted her head, confused. “But since when does The Forward publish articles on sports?”
David shrugged and took a handful of Cracker Jacks. “It doesn’t. I’ll write it as a freelancer.”
“You can do that? How?”
They were interrupted by cheering as a Yankee hit the ball and took off running. He got to second base.
David shrugged. “I often write about things, like baseball, that The Forward doesn’t publish. It keeps my portfolio relevant and active for when I’m free to travel again.”
Ruth thought about this. “I assume it also increases your pay.”
David smiled. “Every reporter should freelance on the side. Even you.”
“Me? I’m lucky to be writing at The Forward. How would I freelance?”
David shook his head. “You’ve got the gift, doll. I see potential in you. Notice I don’t waste my time helping everyone.”
Ruth shifted uncomfortably in her seat. Warmth flooded her cheeks and she was grateful he’d shifted his attention back to the field–she didn’t want him to see her blush. She stared at her half-eaten box of Cracker Jacks in her lap as her mind whirred with the implications of what he was suggesting. She’d only just started getting major bylines at The Forward. She’d never dreamed of anything more.
But Nellie Bly never stopped at one paper. She’d always followed the stories and then shopped for the best newspaper to publish them. Could Ruth be selling herself short?
David interrupted her musings. “What are your goals for journalism? Where do you see yourself in the future?”
Ruth swallowed hard. “Honestly, I’ve never thought about it. I’ve just felt lucky to be in such a male-dominated field.”
David laughed. “But times are changing. Women are making names for themselves. Women’s columns are becoming more popular all the time.”
Ruth cringed. She did not see a future writing about getting stains out or the best brisket recipes.
David patted her arm. “I’m not suggesting you write an advice column. But, you have a voice. Why not use it to write about topics you’re passionate about? Chances are they’ll matter to other women as well.”
Read more of “The Girl in the Newsroom” while you wait for the book!
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A Feeling She’d Never Felt Before.
Just when Ruth feels like she has her feet firmly underneath her, everything is changing again. Will everything she’s endured keep her rooted in her convictions, or is she floating away? This is the EIGHTH Sneak Peek drop for “The Girl in the Newsroom”. If you missed any you can find them all linked below or on my Goodreads.
The Girl in the Newsroom
Alva Belmont smiled. “Congressman! How kind of you to join us.”
Hal gestured to Ruth. “I believe you know my companion. Ruth Feldman was one of the garment workers on the picket lines in 1909.”
Anne Morgan gasped. “Oh my goodness, Ruth, yes! I didn’t recognize you. How are you, my dear?”
Ruth smiled. “I’m actually a news reporter now.”
Anne nodded. “I remember when you gave that first interview on the picket line. You had them captivated.”
Another woman stepped forward–Pauline Newman, another labor organizer who had worked with Clara Lemlich, but had since fallen out with her. Ruth had ended up being closer to Clara hadn’t seen Pauline since.
“Nice to see you again, Ruth. A reporter you said? Whereabouts?” Pauline asked.
“The Forward.” Ruth remembered Pauline had gotten involved with the hierarchy of the Ladies Garment Workers Union.“And you’re with the ILGWU now?”
“Yes, I’m the Educational Director for the Health Center.” Pauline slipped Ruth a card. “We’ll have to keep in touch. It helps to have a contact in the press to share what we offer.”
Ruth was stunned. Education? Health Center? She knew the ILGWU had made advancements over the years, but how much had changed since Ruth toiled away for pennies and free meat pies at the Triangle. “What are you offering the workers now?”
Pauline smiled. “A lot has changed. Why don’t you visit? We have a full medical center.”
“Can the workers afford it?”
Pauline signaled a waiter for another drink. “They pay a small fee. But the union subsidizes the bulk of it. And we partner with generous hospitals like Lenox Hill.”
How long Ester had suffered with that horrible cough? And Abraham had resorted to a liquid diet when he had a toothache. Ruth had been relatively healthy, but even she had worked through awful ailments. What a difference having access to healthcare would have made!
She felt Hal squeeze her arm. She looked up to see his vibrant blue eyes, sparkling with mischief. He gestured with his head slightly, signaling Ruth to offer her services. She felt his bravery surge through her. Was this what it felt like to have a partner?
“I’ll take you up on that tour.” Ruth said. “I’d love to see your medical center and write about it.”
“Marvelous,” Pauline said. “I’ll write you to set up a time.”
Hal bowed to the ladies and pulled her away. He leant down to whisper in her ear. “How’d that feel?”
“Absolutely surreal.” Exciting ideas swirled through her. “Perhaps I could even get permission to make it another feature.”
Hal shrugged. “You never know until you ask. I certainly think it would be of value.” He patted her hand. “But I’m biased toward anything written by you.”
Ruth had to look away from his intent gaze. Something fluttered in her chest–a feeling she’d never felt before. But before confusion could overtake her, he held out a hand.
Read more of “The Girl in the Newsroom” while you wait for the book!
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A New Chapter for Ruth
You have had the chance to get a glimpse of some big changes for Ruth, but they just keep coming! Are you getting excited about your reunion with Ruth yet? In case you missed it, this is the SEVENTH Sneak Peek drop for “The Girl in the Newsroom”. If you missed any you can find them all linked below or on my Goodreads.
The Girl in the Newsroom
November 1921
“I told you this one would look perfect on you!” Chayele squealed. She clapped her hands together in glee. “Just wait till Hal sees you!”
Ruth examined herself in the mirror and cringed. The dress was beautiful, but it was so not her. It was an emerald green in a light chiffon fabric she’d never worn before. The arms were completely bare and it had beading at the waist with a flourishing flounce of fabric at the side. “I feel exposed. Look how much skin you can see!”
Chayele clucked. “It’s perfectly modest. I gave you one of my highest necklines. Besides I’ll give you a fur to wear.”
“But I can’t wear the fur indoors. My arms will be on display all night!”
Chayele rolled her eyes. “As will every other lady’s in the room. Don’t you ever wear evening dresses? None have sleeves anymore.”
Ruth felt her cheeks burn. No, she didn’t. Because she barely went out at night. Hence why she felt like a fish out of water accepting Hal’s invitation to accompany him to a fancy charity ball. She knew this was a bad idea. She’d been swept away by the magic of the week.
She’d seen Hal twice more. Once for a movie and once for dinner. Each time she was surprised by how relaxed she felt with him. It was so easy to talk to him and he made her laugh. Often. She couldn’t remember ever laughing this much before. And every moment with him was a new experience. A new world even! She’d never gone to restaurants like this before, where waiters stood at attention ready to replace a napkin immediately after it was soiled.
To be fair, she’d never eaten in any restaurant before that wasn’t kosher. She’d felt a twinge of guilt as they lounged over coffee after dinner and shared a frosted cake for dessert. She knew Tatty would have her head if he knew. But everything had been so delicious and decadent.
And what a luxury to sit and take your time over a meal! To not have to worry about doing the dishes and cleaning up once complete. She’d been reveling in this relaxing experience when he asked her to accompany him to the ball.
“Come with me to a ball tomorrow night.”
“What?” She must have misheard him.
“A charity ball. I need a date. Want to go with me?”
“A ball? Like from Cinderella?”
He laughed. “Yup,. But instead of glass slippers they’re collecting money for the hospital. Freidrich and Chayele will be there.”
Read more of “The Girl in the Newsroom” while you wait for the book!
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Check out the Amaryllis Co. Shop, fully stocked with custom designs perfect for every book loving Amaryllis Girl! From shirts, mugs, wine glasses, and more, I have curated a shop with all of my favorites! SHOP HERE! You can also find my collection of bookish merchandise on Etsy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Hot Off the Press!
I have mentioned in my newsletters that this fall has brought big schedule changes for me, which has meant changes to my writing time. It has definitely meant dedication to managing distractions, but I am excited and proud to say this has not meant changes in productivity. That means Ruth is back again, to share a bit more of what she is up to. Find the latest Sneak Peek of The Girl in the Newsroom below, as well as links to all the other sneak peeks!
The Girl in the Newsroom
November 1921 Ruth’s brain whirred as she typed away on her typewriter. She’d been regularly writing more feature stories and breaking news assignments. She’d even been called into the editor-in-chief, Cahan’s office at least once now for a face-to-face. He actually knew her name!
David assured her he always did, but Ruth still doubted. She knew she had him to thank for this new attention, but David insisted it was her own doing. She believed she had the talent now and was capable. But she knew David was the one who gave her the push and she still relied on his input heavily. He was also the one who magically made assignments appear on her desk.
She knew there were whispers. She heard them. The other reporters, wondering what was going on between her and David. She also noticed Shayna and the other females in the office appearing colder and less friendly towards her. She’d arrived crying on Chayele’s doorstep not that long ago when the women had purposefully stopped talking and stepped away from her in the elevator when she entered one day. Chayele scooped her up in a hug and told her to ignore them.
“They’re jealous.” Chayele rubbed Ruth’s back in swirling circles. “Unfortunately, even though it’s tough enough breaking into this man’s world, us women like to somehow make it harder. Instead of patting each other on the back for success like the men do, we get petty and vindictive and ice each other out.
It was the same for me in nursing. I’ve always been a good nurse. I held my own in the most stressful situations during the war and picked up a decent amount of medical knowledge along the way. I earned my way into surgeries. But as soon as other nurses learn I’m married to a surgeon, forget it. I’m a pariah. It’s lonely, but I move on and focus on the work instead.”
She heard a throat clear, jolting her from her musings. She looked up and saw Hal standing before her. Her stomach dropped and her heart began to flutter.
“Hal! What are you doing here?” She bolted to her feet, banging her knee on the typewriter in the process. She rubbed her knee and tried to hide her cringe.
He reached out and his face clouded with concern. “Oh, are you alright? I didn’t mean to startle you.”
She waved him off. “I’m fine. Just a klutz.”
“Well, that didn’t go quite as planned.” He smiled. “Although, I did want to surprise you. I’m in town for the week and was hoping we could go for another walk.”
“Oh.” Ruth glanced around the newsroom. Sure enough, some eyes were definitely darting towards her and the Congressman.
She knew she crossed the line about familiarity with subjects a while ago with her letters. But this would be declaring it to the whole newsroom. Why did he have to appear at her work?
“As wonderful as it is to see you, I have a big deadline and now’s really not a good time.”
His face fell. His excitement dampened. “Oh, I see. Your deadline’s important, of course. I just came all this way and am only here a few days. I was really hoping to see you.”
Ruth’s stomach turned. What was she doing? She wanted to walk with him also! Taking a deep breath, she decided it was time to channel Chayele. She needed to stop caring what everyone else thought.
“You know what? The article can wait. “I’d love to take a walk with you.”
Hal’s eyes lit up again and he grinned. “Great! We’ll keep it short.”
She grabbed her hat and coat and ignored the stares as she followed him from the newsroom. They descended the stairs together to the street below.
Have you read all The Girl in the Newsroom sneak peeks?
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