Characters
In this captivating tapestry of history, Jakes masterfully intertwines fictional characters with iconic figures such as Henry Ford, Barney Oldfield, Kaiser Wilhelm, Pancho Villa, Charlie Chaplin, Mack Sennett, and D.W. Griffith. His narrative unfurls across diverse locales including Chicago, Detroit, New York, London, California, Mexico, Germany, and Belgium, weaving a rich tableau of secondary characters who enliven the scenes. The protagonists are imbued with the essence of legendary personalities who shaped the early 20th century, from the adrenaline-pumping world of automobile racing and aviation to the burgeoning realms of cinema and newsreel production during the era of 1900-1920.
Carl's Quest for Adventure
In a restless pursuit of excitement, Carl abandons the hallowed halls of Princeton, much to the ire of his father, Joseph Crown, the industrious founder of the Crown Brewery. Discontent with the routine, Carl seeks out Detroit and finds himself amidst the revolutionary automobile industry, under the employ of the pioneering Henry Ford. Here, he delivers the robust Model-T, a marvel that democratizes car ownership for the working class, while other manufacturers continue catering to the affluent with bespoke vehicles such as the Hudson, Cadillac, and Packard. Ford’s groundbreaking production techniques set a new benchmark for the industry.
Amidst the mechanical marvels of Ford's enterprise, Carl bears witness to the birth of the assembly line. However, at a foundry subsidiary where his friend Jesse endures perilous conditions, Carl encounters the grim realities of molten metal, treacherous machines, and flammable paints. The rigid codes of conduct enforced by Ford lead to Carl's dismissal when he defends himself in a brawl instigated by Wayne Sykes, a jealous adversary. Tragically, Jesse suffers a life-altering injury during the fray, highlighting the absence of essential protections like medical insurance or worker's compensation, though Jesse's indomitable spirit remains unbroken.
Love and Racing
Carl's heart is captivated by Tess Clymer, the privileged daughter of a Detroit magnate, yet Clymer's disdain for Carl and the latter's infatuation with the thrill of race car driving forestall any commitment. With Tess's approval, symbolized by her red silk scarf, Carl departs Detroit, unaware of Tess's pregnancy. To mask her liaison with Carl, Tess enters into a marriage with the opportunistic Wayne Sykes.
On weekends, Carl dons his racing ensemble—Zeiss goggles, a heavy duster, and gloves—as he speeds in an Edmunds Special, competing against the elite who pilot Peugeots, Masons, and other custom-crafted machines. At the raceway, he encounters his idol, Barney Oldfield, the legendary racer. Embracing the allure of speed, Carl joins Oldfield's troupe, crisscrossing the racing circuit, thrilling fans with staged competitions. However, Oldfield's self-destructive proclivities and false accusations from his wife prompt Carl to sever ties and move on.
Soaring and Conflict
Transitioning from the racing circuit to the skies, Carl meets the arthritic Rip Ryan in Redlands, California, who imparts flying lessons using a Curtiss-designed aircraft, distinct with its engine positioned behind the pilot. To finance his training, Carl undertakes repairs to the hangar.
Carving a niche in the aviation world, Carl aligns with Rene Le Maye, joining a troupe of daredevils who enthrall audiences with their breathtaking aerial feats aboard a Martin bi-plane, a Bleriot, and a Curtiss. The allure of adventure soon leads Carl to Mexico, where Rene inks a deal with the Federalistas to conduct reconnaissance flights over Pancho Villa’s domain. Amidst the political turmoil, Carl narrowly escapes execution by firing squad after a crash but swiftly realizes the futility of their alliance with the Federalistas.
With the Mexican civil war disintegrating, Carl and Rene pivot to Europe, enlisting as fighter pilots in France. Carl navigates perilous skies over German lines, narrowly surviving...
(This entire section contains 1291 words.)
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an encounter with an Aviatik and a Fokker. The brush with death culminates in a chivalrous exchange with Hermann Goering, the German ace who shoots Carl down and later pens a cordial note.
Documenting the World
Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Paul resides in London with his family, chronicling global events for the London Light publishing house. His lens captures the fervor of revolution in Mexico and the ominous rise of militarism in Germany. As Germany's troops march into Belgium, Paul documents the exodus of refugees fleeing the relentless advance of well-equipped armies. From a precarious vantage point, he films a harrowing execution, smuggling the footage back to America in an attempt to awaken the public to the grim realities overseas.
Stateside, the nascent film industry burgeons, with "movies" captivating audiences in humble nickelodeons, where patrons of all stripes gather to watch flickering silent reels. The absence of sound compels actors to convey emotion through exaggerated gestures and lip movements, ensuring the audience remains enthralled.
The World of Cinema
Fritzi, disheartened by her Broadway endeavors and struggling financially, finds work with Liberty Films, a covert operation named for its surreptitious filming techniques designed to circumvent royalties owed to inventor Thomas Edison. The makeshift film sets in outdoor locales and warehouse lofts serve as the backdrop for productions fraught with flammable chemicals, which pose a constant threat, as illustrated by a fire that erupts during an editing session.
The tumultuous weather in New York, coupled with the relentless pursuit of patent enforcers over the use of Edison’s motion picture camera, compels budding filmmakers to seek refuge in the sun-drenched landscapes of California. Among them is D.W. Griffith, the visionary director of Biograph, along with the renowned cameraman Billy Bitzer. This intrepid group journeys westward, including Fritzi, who departs New York reluctantly to craft films for Liberty in the rustic locale of Venice, California. Yet, amidst the golden sunshine of the West, she discovers an unexpected affection for her new life as a film actress.
Although Fritzi yearns for dramatic roles, those behind the camera and the adoring fans see her innate gift for mime and comedy. She gradually becomes the heart of the "Lone Indian" series, eventually rising to stardom as "Knockabout Nell," whose humorous mishaps serendipitously lead to successful outcomes. In time, Fritzi ascends to the ranks of a screen icon, embraced as a member of "America's royalty."
Fritzi's heart is captivated by Loy Hardin, a mysterious cowboy extra who embodies the rugged and reticent charm of a Gary Cooper. Yet, Loy reveals a secret; although he loves her, he cannot commit, as he is evading a murder charge in Texas. His farewell shatters Fritzi, and too late she learns the charge was dismissed, the act deemed justified. In the aftermath, she rekindles her friendship with Harry Poland, whose courtship brings warmth and affection back into her life.
Supporting Cast and Intriguing Figures
The tapestry of Fritzi's world is woven with a plethora of characters. Among them are Tess Clymer, Loy Hardin, and Harry Poland, who are intertwined romantically with Carl and Fritzi. Hobart Manchester, a fellow thespian from the Broadway stage, emerges as a paternal figure and steadfast ally. B.B. Pelzer, producer at Liberty Pictures, recognizes Fritzi’s worth, both as a person and a valuable asset to the studio. After enduring the horror of the Lusitania disaster and losing his beloved Sophie, B.B. plunges into deep depression, yet finds solace and recovery in advocating for Fritzi's rights.
Antagonists and Adversaries
The gallery of villains includes Pearly Purvis, a patent detective whose attempt to harm Fritzi results in his own demise beneath a train. Wayne Sykes, a fortune-seeker, wins Tess's hand with her father’s blessing. Rita Oldfield, with her deceitful tales, causes Carl to be beaten and dismissed. Al Kelly, the myopic and miserly financier of Liberty Pictures, stands in contrast to the larger-than-life figures like Kaiser Wilhelm, whose hubris and nationalistic fervor ignite a war that ravages Europe. Last is General Joseph Crown, whose unwavering dedication to his German roots and unyielding adherence to duty and honor alienates his children.
