As The Money Burns

A big birthday with a big inheritance comes with more attention and trouble. So would a birthday party even be worth the risk?November 1933, after Doris Duke turns 21 and receives the first portion of her inheritance, she must now face threats from kidnappers, ill-intentioned suitors, and lawsuits. Meanwhile another kidnapping situation turns deadly. Amidst the threats, Doris has a small birthday...

Another heiress turns 21 thus gaining part of her fortune, but what the richest girl wants most horrifies her mother.November 1933, Doris Duke attempts to spend a quiet 21st birthday at her mansion in Manhattan in remembrance of her father Buck Duke, only to have to flee the press and public attention for Duke Farms in New Jersey. To quell the young heiress's restless spirit, her mother Nanaline...

Divorces come in several stages – physical, financial, legal, and emotional. The latter might be the hardest if ever to achieve. As one reporter learns with a slap in the face.November 1933, opera singer Mary McCormic and Prince Serge Mdivani are officially divorced. But when Mdivani biographer Grace Williams tries to expose the terms of the settlement, Grace faces Mary’s wrath.Other people and...

A fortune hunter returns with his heiress bride from their honeymoon to collect her inheritance. Has he finally secured his ultimate prize?November 1933, as birthday girl Princes Barbara Hutton Mdivani turns 21, she seems to have it all a prince for a husband and a large fortune all her own and now is a fashion and pop culture icon. But will it be enough? What else could an heiress want?Other...

When a prized debutante makes her debut, one heir is determined not to miss it.November 1933, one of the most prized debutantes of this season Virginia Kent has her first coming out ball. To not miss out, John Jacob Astor VI, aka “Jakey,” charters a vehicle to bring a crew to the party. Will a love match be made?Other people and subjects include:Princess Barbara Hutton Mdivani, Doris Duke, James...

It’s time for another Tuxedo Ball with plenty of beauties, so has this year’s most eligible bachelor finally found his future wife among them?October 1933, the top 50 debutantes of this social season mix with the most eligible bachelors at the ultra exclusive Tuxedo Park’s Autumn Ball. Will “Jakey” John Jacob Astor VI, “Alfy” Alfred Vanderbilt, Jr., Atwater “Atty” Kent, Jr., Pierre Barbey, Jr.,...

The freedom of travel and adventure is cut short when one heiress is spotted, and too much attention could threaten her safety.October - November 1933, Doris Duke travels incognito to the Pacific Coast but eventually gets spotted everywhere she goes. Eventually, she ends up in Hollywood for a few special meetings. Other people and subjects include:Barbara Hutton, James H.R. Cromwell aka “Jimmy,”...

Marrying in haste is easy, but divorces can be oh so much trickier. Two complicated marriages finally dissolve in the courtroom.October 1933, Mae Murray is on her third attempt to divorce Prince David Mdivani. Amidst their divorce proceedings, she has several other cases related to an unpaid debt and a personal injury claim. Meanwhile Hope Diamond owner Evalyn Walsh McLean requests an insanity...

Another debutante season is beginning, and a new crop of beauties are already making a splash.September – October 1933, Jakey Astor enjoys being the most eligible bachelor and is looking for a wife. Several debutantes attend early debut events before the official social season begins, while one lad turns into a professional party thrower to survive his economic downturn.Other people and subjects...

Fifth Year Anniversary recap and future storylines.Hints and teasers of themes involving love and fortune. Series tagline: All they want is love. Everyone else wants their fortune.Other people (*referenced not specifically mentioned) and subjects include: Barbara Hutton, Doris Duke, John Jacob Astor VI aka “Jakey,” Prince Alexis Mdivani, Frank Shields, Madeleine Talmage Force Astor Dick...