Broadway Butterfly

In 1923 New York City, flapper Dot King is found dead in her Manhattan apartment. Her jewels and furs are missing, and a bottle of chloroform lies next to her body. Reporter Julia Harpman of the Daily News chases the story, but the web of intrigue and unanswered questions leads her in circles. Dot, known as the Broadway Butterfly, was involved with a Broadway gigolo, a wealthy politician, and a member of the district attorney’s family. All are possible suspects. Though the NYPD’s John D. Coughlin is on the case, Julia continues her search for answers, even as dangers mount and she herself is attacked and warned off. Julia’s queries reveal corruption in the highest places, but the abruptly closed case is never solved. Based on a true crime, DiVello’s marvelous debut takes listeners into the corrupt underbelly of 1920s New York society. Jordan Cobb offers a smooth, rhythmic narration of this compelling historical mystery, providing a variety of character voices and capturing the frustration of those seeking justice.