Book Description

In 1920s Manhattan, a forbidden love ignites an inferno that threatens to burn the American Dream.

Otto and Minna Schmidt arrive in New York with nothing but hope, eventually finding success in a popular bakery and high-society fashion. But when Minna is drawn into a forbidden affair, Otto’s jealousy transforms into a cold, calculating rage. In a shocking act of revenge disguised as an accident, he unleashes a devastation that leaves Minna fighting for her life and shatters their family forever.

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About the Author

Broderick B. Williams

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1959, Broderick B. Williams began his journey humbly as a paperboy before joining the Army in 1977. After six years of service and a stint in the hospitality industry, he joined the Air Force Reserves in 1998 at Dover Air Force Base, serving as an aircraft loadmaster on the C-5 Super Galaxy. This role allowed him to travel the world, visiting more countries than he had ever imagined, while also achieving a personal milestone by earning his private pilot's license.

Military Veteran: Served in the Army for six years and later retired from the Air Force Reserves in 2019 after decades of service.
Global Traveler: Traveled extensively as a loadmaster on the massive C-5 Super Galaxy transport aircraft.
Private Pilot: Achieved a personal dream by earning his private pilot's license during his service.
Family Man: A devoted husband and father of two adult daughters, he dedicates his writing to his family, including his first granddaughter, Cleo.

Broderick currently resides in Delaware with his wife, Nan, and stepson, James. Writing his first novel, Slingshot, has been one of his greatest enjoyments and achievements since retiring from his military career.

Reader Reviews

What Readers Are Saying

A Heartbreaking and Gripping Saga

A vivid and gripping portrayal of immigrant life in the 1920s, with a shocking twist and Otto’s chilling descent into jealousy—this powerful debut stays with you long after the end.

Sarah L., Amazon Review

A Story of Resilience

Minna is unforgettable—her survival, strength, and tragedy are deeply moving. I rooted for her and Megan, and the ending left me eager to see what happens next in Kansas.

Michael T., Goodreads

My Book Series

Book Carousel

SLINGSHOT

Author: Broderick B. Williams

The American Dream & The Immigrant Struggle: Otto and Minna Schmidt travel from post-war Europe to Manhattan, building a bakery and seamstress business.

A Fatal Triangle: Danger arises with mob extortion and forbidden romance igniting Otto’s jealousy.

The Ultimate Betrayal: A shocking gas explosion leaves Minna disfigured and the family’s future altered.

Under The Viel

Author: Broderick B. Williams

Escape to the Midwest: The Schmidt family relocates to Kansas to reinvent themselves in cattle ranching.

Life Behind the Mask: Minna hides scars from the explosion, symbolizing secrets they carry.

A Legacy of Deceit: Megan grows into a financial mind while Otto chases new riches, navigating lies from Manhattan.

The Penance

Author: Broderick B. Williams

The Gripping Conclusion: The final chapter in the Schmidt family saga.

The Price of Sin: Explores the consequences of Otto’s calculated crime.

A Final Reckoning: Discover the fate of Otto, Minna, and Megan as the past catches up with the present.