Unpunished: A Mystery (Elaine R. Hedges American Women's Literature) - Softcover

Charlotte Perkins Gilman's newly discovered last major novel spoofs detective novels and challenges the hidden shame of domestic abuse years before it was a public issue. Wade Vaughn, a sadistic attorney, is murdered by five different methods--and leaves behind a long list of potential perpetrators. Detective team Jim and Bessie Hunt pick their way through their investigation, turning up a surprise heroine, disabled Jacqueline "Jack" Warner, whose journal--Gilman-style (The Yellow Wall-Paper)--reveals not only Vaughn's final moments but also the abuse that has been hidden in his family despite the deaths of two of its female members. A historical landmark, a mystery, a comedy, and a social statement, all in one!

Charlotte Perkins Gilman (1860-1935) was a feminist writer, lecturer, and activist, and is best known for The Yellow Wall-Paper. Her many other works include the science fiction trilogy Herland and Women and Economics.