The Girl in the Green Dress by Mariah Fredericks

 The Girl in the Green Dress explores the true mystery set in 1920s New York, involving the unsolved murder of the gambler Joseph Elwell.

Morris Markey arrives in New York to become a writer, and is searching for a story that would give him his big break. He happens to live across from Joseph Elwell and witnesses Joseph entering his building with a gorgeous woman dressed in a green dress. Shortly after, Joseph’s murder is announced by a screaming housekeeper. Morris skillfully makes his way inside Joseph’s house before anyone else to gain as much information as possible.

Morris approaches the Fitzgeralds as they were the last ones to see Joseph alive, right before his murder. Zelda Fitzgerald is more than happy to join the forces with Morris as it gives her a purpose in her life which she feels is missing.

This story offers scenarios and methodical search through clues. It might be an engaging read for those who like delving into scenarios and analyzing them without much action or pace. The writing is quite descriptive.

The novel captures the vibrant atmosphere of the period with themes of fame and desire, the parties and overindulgences, the famous and yet troubled life of Zelda, and Markey’s PTSD.

Written with splendid prose, the story mixes real people and events with fiction, for example, Morris Markey and Zelda Fitzgerald never met. This is a huge mix of facts and fiction and is a personal preference.

Released in September 2025

Source: Minotaur Books