Once a proud symbol of American industrial might, the bankrupt city of Montbray has collapsed into a dangerous, crime-ridden wasteland. Notorious for holding the highest murder rate in the nation, infamously dubbed the Capital, and named the most miserable city in America by Money Inc., its underfunded police department struggle to resolve violent crimes due to a severe lack of forensic resources. Despite President Goodwin’s proposal for federal assistance, the state governor flatly rejects the aid, labeling it a socialist method and leaving the desperate city completely isolated.

This deep political polarization takes center stage in a packed Montbray High School gymnasium during a heated mayoral debate between thirty-four year old Miranda Brown and sixty-two year old conservative candidate Robert Henderson. Miranda erupts in outrage, condemning the governor and Henderson for playing political games with residents' lives, while pointing out that even historical Republican figures like Eisenhower maintained high tax rates. Henderson fires back without hesitation, dismissing past administrations as progressive anomalies and defending the rejection of federal aid in favor of small government and private job creation. Watching the chaotic clash unfold from the crowd is the narrator, a visitor from St. Louis who realizes that the fierce battle between these two candidates will ultimately decide whether Montbray secures a lifeline or burns to the ground.

You can find the complete Montbray series via the link below 🔗📚

• Montbray Universe