A Husband by Proxy

"A Husband by Proxy" by Jack Steele is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Jerold Garrison, an expert criminologist who has just moved to New York and is seeking employment. Soon after setting up his office, he is approached by a mysterious woman, Dorothy Fairfax, who proposes an unusual arrangement: she wants him to pose as her husband, not for emotional reasons, but as a business proposition. The beginning of the novel introduces readers to Jerold Garrison, who is grappling with the challenges of starting anew in a bustling city. His encounter with Dorothy is both intriguing and puzzling, as she reveals her desperate need for a temporary husband while keeping her motives shrouded in secrecy. Dorothy's beauty and charisma captivate Garrison, sparking a mixture of curiosity and concern regarding her true intentions. As they negotiate the terms of this unusual arrangement, the reader is drawn into a web of mystery that hints at deeper conflicts and potential dangers lurking beneath the surface of their agreement.