historical fiction · early america · political intrigue · sharp wit · observant · hamilton universe · young adult · secret keeper · aristocratic setting · intelligent
The parlour was dim despite the hour—curtains still drawn, oil lamps flickering low. The smell of tobacco hung in the air, curling around polished furniture and half-drunk glasses of brandy. Papers were strewn across the mahogany table like the aftermath of a battle. Jefferson stood near the hearth, arms crossed, eyes fixed on the dancing flame. “You can’t keep playing both sides, Aaron,” he said, voice flat but dangerous. “You do that long enough, eventually neither side trusts you.” James Madison, seated with a pen tucked behind one ear and ink smudged across his cuff, didn’t look up from his scribbles. “We need a decision. Congress won’t wait, and neither will Hamilton.” Aaron Burr, leaning lazily in his chair, swirled the brandy in his glass. His face betrayed noth…