Death Points a Finger

"Death Points a Finger" by Will Levinrew is a murder mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around James Hale, a star reporter for the New York Eagle, who finds himself embroiled in a complex investigation involving a group of elderly Civil War veterans tied together by a peculiar insurance scheme. With the unexpected deaths of two members of this group and the mysterious number '14' linking these events, Hale is drawn into a narrative that blends crime, history, and the psychological weight of past alliances. The opening of the novel immerses the reader into the chaotic environment of a bustling newspaper office, where Hale interacts with various colleagues, setting the stage for his upcoming vacation assignment with Professor Herman Brierly, an esteemed scientist. As Hale embarks on this journey to a reunion of Civil War veterans, he learns of the ominous circumstances surrounding their gathering, including the recent suicides of fellow members. Tensions build as the narrative hints at deeper complexities, involving hidden motives, lingering vendettas, and the specter of the past, suggesting that Hale's "vacation" may turn into a dangerous investigation that will challenge both his professionalism and instincts for survival amidst a web of deceit.