The Great Mrs. Elias by Barbara Chase-Riboud

Hannah Elias became a prominent and notorious figure in 1900's New York. She grew up in poverty and abuse using her wits and female charm to become one of the wealthiest women of the city and the only black woman to do so. From prison to poorhouse to a mansion off the park Hannah took in the advice of her gentlemen friends and capitalized on prime real estate. Her adult life was not without grief, pain and deceit which culminated in her arrest and public judgement in a murder trial. As a woman she was target for social outcry but as a black woman she was subjected to the worst jails in the city. This book reads more like a biography than historical fiction. Filled with background facts on the robber barons of New York as well as corruption and the inner workings of bordellos/boardinghouses , this is a fascinating look at the city and a stunning example of strong women of color finding success not only in a man's world but a white man's world. Fans of now famous women of color as well as those who love New York City during this time period will find much to enjoy here.  4 stars