Romance Island

by Zona Gale

"Romance Island" by Zona Gale is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story follows St. George, a young man who unexpectedly inherits a fortune, including a luxurious yacht, and navigates the intersection of his previous working-class life with newfound wealth and social status. As he hosts a gathering of friends from his past, he becomes involved in a complex situation surrounding a mysterious woman connected to an attempted murder. The opening of the novel introduces St. George returning to his apartment to prepare for a dinner with his colleagues from the newspaper where he used to work. He reminisces about his past struggles and the transformation that wealth has brought him. As guests arrive, lively conversations spark around current events, particularly an intriguing and dramatic case concerning a heiress. The narrative sets the stage for St. George's interactions with both old friends and new dilemmas as he grapples with the realities of his sudden elevation in society, creating a backdrop for the unfolding romance and mystery that will likely define the rest of the story.