The Second Mrs. Astor: A Heartbreaking Historical Novel of the Titanic

The newspapers report that the colonel and Miss Force were caught on the lawn of Beechwood having an intimate tête-à-tête. Her father calls the colonel to say the engagement must be made public so Madeleine’s reputation isn’t ruined. Newspapermen flood the Force lawn when the news gets out. Madeleine complains that they pick apart everything she does. Her mother claims that navigating this attention is Madeleine’s job now, and Madeleine should say something so they’ll go away. Madeleine goes outside to talk with the reporters, and one asks her if she feels confident stepping into the role of the former Mrs. John Jacob Astor, “leader of the society of Newport and New York” (113). Another asks if she’s aware Jack’s divorce agreement doesn’t allow him to remarry. Madeleine flounders and withdraws. Jack sends her red roses—the American Beauties she said were her favorite.

A newspaper article misrepresents Madeleine as boasting that she will reign over New York society just like the previous Mrs. Astors. Letters arrive to Madeleine from long-ago acquaintances who want to reconnect as well as from utter strangers. Some look up to her, some provide advice, and some ask her to sponsor their fundraiser.