Samantha Woodruff on Writing a Heroine Who Outsmarted Wall Street

We sit down with bestselling author Samantha Green Woodruff to discuss her captivating new historical fiction novel, "The Trade-Off," set against the backdrop of 1920s Wall Street and the devastating 1929 stock market crash.

In this riveting conversation, Woodruff introduces us to her remarkable protagonist, Bee Abramitz—a brilliant, mathematically gifted daughter of Russian Jewish immigrants who dreams of breaking into the male-dominated world of Wall Street. Bee's journey is complicated by her family dynamics, particularly with her twin brother Jake, as they navigate different paths to success and wealth in America.

Woodruff reveals the fascinating historical research behind her novel, from the surprising existence of "Ladies Departments" at prestigious banks to the practice of short-selling that preceded the crash. She discusses how contemporary events like the GameStop short squeeze inspired her exploration of the moral complexities surrounding wealth and success.

Drawing from her own family history and her previous career in business, Woodruff crafts a story that examines the immigrant experience, gender barriers, anti-Semitism, and the roaring twenties' excess—all while building toward the inevitable financial catastrophe that changed America forever.

Whether you're a history buff, finance enthusiast, or simply love compelling historical fiction with strong female protagonists, this episode offers fascinating insights into both the creative process and a pivotal moment in American history.

Woodruff is also the author of the bestseller "The Lobotomist's Wife," another meticulously researched historical novel that examines a dark chapter in American medical history.

Between the Covers brings you intimate conversations with today's most compelling authors, exploring the stories behind their books and the passion that drives their writing.