How Beautiful They Were is a historical novel set in 1850s New York's theatre world, where Colonel Tearwood's American Theatre Company challenges the status quo of its times by bringing daily life to the stage. All the elements of high drama are deftly incorporated into a vivid story that comments not only on individual lives and perspectives, but the impact of theatre in everyday American society as a whole: "Theatre is ideas, and ideas change the flow of power, and the flow of power affects who has the money, and everyone has a dog in that fight." From operas and high society to criminal acts that challenge actors and viewers alike, characters face their fears, often play dual roles on and off stage, and address plays lacking essential elements, such as a female character. When the owner of a theatre troupe is murdered, the investigation moves into private lives made public by circumstance, association, and fate. The American Theatre Company stands at the crossroads of not only changing social mores and political contention, but a deadly game that its key players are ill-equipped to handle. Filled with evocative descriptions, compelling drama, and the backdrop of seasons passing through New York City's 1800s culture, How Beautiful They Were is a captivating examination of life and death both on and off stage, and will delight not just general-interest novel readers, but those who hold a special affection for theatre history and New York City.