Mani-Mala, Part 1: Or a Treatise on Gems (1879)

It only took thirteen minutes to kill herA[a–A]. After being convicted of several crimes, Silas Woodward, one of the America’s most notorious convicted serial killers falls ill before he can be put to death by the prison system. He requests a young reporter to come to his hospital room so he can tell him his story, and clear up some of the misconceptions of his conviction. His claim of innocence has the police baffled as similar killings begin again in the city, as if there is a copycat killer. He convinces the reporter to help him escape with the promise of an exclusive story. Events are complicated when an escaped victim identifies Silas as the new killer, while Silas is still in the hospital. Each chapter begins with a quote from the killer…or killers! Hang on as everyone involved moves through a web of deceit, suspense and surprise.