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Mystery at The Blue Sea Cottage: A True Story of Murder in San Diego's Jazz Age
Set in Jazz Age San Diego against the backdrop of yellow journalism, notorious Hollywood scandals, Prohibition corruption and a lively culture war, Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage tells the intriguing true crime story of a beautiful dancer, a playboy actor, and a debonair doctor.
In January 1923, 20-year-old Fritzie Mann left home for a remote cottage by the sea to meet a man whose identity she had revealed to no one. The next morning, the barely clad body of the beautiful and bewitching dancer washed up on lonely Torrey Pines beach, her party dress and possessions strewn about on the sand.
The scene baffled investigators. Was it suicide, murder, or an accidental drowning? A botched autopsy created more questions than it answered. However, the investigation revealed a scandalous secret and, possibly, a powerful motive for murder.
After a suspect was arrested and charged with murder, an ambitious district attorney battled a high-profile L.A. private counsel in the most sensational trial in San Diego's history that was followed avidly across the nation. The big question: What really happened at the Blue Sea Cottage?
In January 1923, 20-year-old Fritzie Mann left home for a remote cottage by the sea to meet a man whose identity she had revealed to no one. The next morning, the barely clad body of the beautiful and bewitching dancer washed up on lonely Torrey Pines beach, her party dress and possessions strewn about on the sand.
The scene baffled investigators. Was it suicide, murder, or an accidental drowning? A botched autopsy created more questions than it answered. However, the investigation revealed a scandalous secret and, possibly, a powerful motive for murder.
After a suspect was arrested and charged with murder, an ambitious district attorney battled a high-profile L.A. private counsel in the most sensational trial in San Diego's history that was followed avidly across the nation. The big question: What really happened at the Blue Sea Cottage?
302 pages, Paperback
Published September 27, 2021
34 people are currently reading
759 people want to read
About the author
James Stewart
1 book13 followersJames A. Stewart was born in Baton Rouge, LA, and grew up in a small town sixteen miles to the north called Zachary. After graduating from Louisiana State University with a BS in Industrial Technology, he spent twenty-five years on active duty with the U.S. Navy, including a tour as commanding officer of USS MOUNT VERNON (LSD-39). He also holds a BA in English from National University and an MFA in Creative Writing from UC Riverside. He lives with his family in San Diego, CA. The Blue Sea Cottage is his first book. https://wildbluepress.com/mystery-at-...
http://www.jamesstewartauthor.com/
http://www.jamesstewartauthor.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 6, 2021
A 1920s story of Southern California where Frieda (Fritzie) Mann went missing and was found dead. Authorities were puzzled and the twenty-year-old dancer’s demise became a true life mystery. Good vintage true crime from the flapper and prohibition era. The author spent nine years researching and writing this narrative non-fiction book, weeding out the sensational to get to the facts. Suspenseful and well-written.
October 5, 2021
This is a narrative nonfictional book about the murder of Fritzie Mann, a 20-year-old woman who left home on the night of January 23, 1923 .. and who b=never returned.
Her body was found the next day washed up on the Torrey Pines beach.
Investigators couldn't decide if this was murder, an accidental drowning, or suicide. The autopsy was not exactly accurate as the medical examiner was not a physician and there were mistakes made.
After a suspect was arrested and charged with murder, an ambitious district attorney battled a high-profile L.A. private counsel in the most sensational trial in San Diego’s history that was followed avidly across the nation. The big question: What really happened at the Blue Sea Cottage?
This is the author's debut tale of murder in San Diego's Jazz Age. in 1923, forensics was almost non-existent especially as the ME was not a physician. The crime scene had been trampled on ... and no one was talking about what they knew .. or didn't know... about the victim. This is well written. I would recommend this to any aficionado of true crime.
Many thanks to the author / Wild Blue Press for the digital copy of this true crime. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinons expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Her body was found the next day washed up on the Torrey Pines beach.
Investigators couldn't decide if this was murder, an accidental drowning, or suicide. The autopsy was not exactly accurate as the medical examiner was not a physician and there were mistakes made.
After a suspect was arrested and charged with murder, an ambitious district attorney battled a high-profile L.A. private counsel in the most sensational trial in San Diego’s history that was followed avidly across the nation. The big question: What really happened at the Blue Sea Cottage?
This is the author's debut tale of murder in San Diego's Jazz Age. in 1923, forensics was almost non-existent especially as the ME was not a physician. The crime scene had been trampled on ... and no one was talking about what they knew .. or didn't know... about the victim. This is well written. I would recommend this to any aficionado of true crime.
Many thanks to the author / Wild Blue Press for the digital copy of this true crime. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinons expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
July 17, 2022
Very well researched and written! Some parts a little slow but kept me reading! Liked the authors summary of what he thinks happ at the end.
November 4, 2021
This was a fabulously done narrative nonfiction, especially considering that while high-ish profile at the time with the Hollywood connection, Fritzie Mann's unsolved murder fell into obscurity afterward.
Stewart wades through the sensational and yellow journalistic accounts of the time to bring as much of the truthful story as possible to the fore.
Kudos and RIP Fritzie Mann
Stewart wades through the sensational and yellow journalistic accounts of the time to bring as much of the truthful story as possible to the fore.
Kudos and RIP Fritzie Mann
November 6, 2021
Highly recommended for murder mysteries and true crime lovers!
This book is well thought out, well researched, and methodical in it’s telling of a tragic story of a young woman’s last days. It encapsulates the lives of so many that were involved or got wrapped up in this tragic tale. Well done! Definitely a must read!
This book is well thought out, well researched, and methodical in it’s telling of a tragic story of a young woman’s last days. It encapsulates the lives of so many that were involved or got wrapped up in this tragic tale. Well done! Definitely a must read!
October 30, 2021
Thank you to the publisher and Book Sirens for an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.
The setting is Jazz Age San Diego, the Roaring Twenties. Although it ended with a crash, the beginning of the 1920’s was a period of economic prosperity and social changes. Prohibition was in place and speakeasies abounded, women were cutting their hair, shortening their hemlines and voting. Automobiles were in vogue, providing freedom of the road and America was in love with movies, celebrities and Hollywood.
In January of 1923, 20-year-old Fritzie Mann was taking advantage of the changing times and working as an interpretive modern dancer. One night, she told her mother she was attending a house party in Del Mar with a man she refused to name and left carrying a small suitcase. Was the mystery man her sometime boyfriend the doctor, the playboy actor, or someone else? We never find out because the next day her body was found on a beach. Was it murder, an accident or suicide? Her hands were oddly folded on her chest, indicating it was perhaps murder or suicide. Was she posed by someone else, or did she overdose and lay down in the surf, placing her hands over her chest? Unfortunately, Fritzie’s body was embalmed before the medical examiner was able to perform a meaningful autopsy. If she committed suicide, would she have thrown her suitcase down a cliff? And taken off her dress? Again, so many unanswered questions, and so many differing stories from the eyewitnesses.
Fritzie’s death and the investigation that followed provided a catching story for the press, and they took no shortcuts when it came to getting the story. And if they couldn’t get the facts, exaggerations, rumor-mongering and plain sensationalism would do.
The detectives were led to the Blue Sea Cottage in La Jolla, where Fritzie may have been murdered or met with an accidental death. She and a gentleman checked in as husband and wife, however, who the gentleman was and what happened in the cottage is speculation. A trial ensues, but no one is ever convicted of Fritzie’s death.
The book is written as narrative nonfiction/true-crime, and the author spent 9 years researching newspaper articles, trial transcripts and court documents. The book is well-researched, providing insight into what may have happened, and gives a fascinating chronicle of the times.
Sorry if I haven’t provided more details on Fritzie’s life and death, but I think this was a well-written and intriguing story, and don’t want to offer up any spoilers.
https://candysplanet.wordpress.com/
The setting is Jazz Age San Diego, the Roaring Twenties. Although it ended with a crash, the beginning of the 1920’s was a period of economic prosperity and social changes. Prohibition was in place and speakeasies abounded, women were cutting their hair, shortening their hemlines and voting. Automobiles were in vogue, providing freedom of the road and America was in love with movies, celebrities and Hollywood.
In January of 1923, 20-year-old Fritzie Mann was taking advantage of the changing times and working as an interpretive modern dancer. One night, she told her mother she was attending a house party in Del Mar with a man she refused to name and left carrying a small suitcase. Was the mystery man her sometime boyfriend the doctor, the playboy actor, or someone else? We never find out because the next day her body was found on a beach. Was it murder, an accident or suicide? Her hands were oddly folded on her chest, indicating it was perhaps murder or suicide. Was she posed by someone else, or did she overdose and lay down in the surf, placing her hands over her chest? Unfortunately, Fritzie’s body was embalmed before the medical examiner was able to perform a meaningful autopsy. If she committed suicide, would she have thrown her suitcase down a cliff? And taken off her dress? Again, so many unanswered questions, and so many differing stories from the eyewitnesses.
Fritzie’s death and the investigation that followed provided a catching story for the press, and they took no shortcuts when it came to getting the story. And if they couldn’t get the facts, exaggerations, rumor-mongering and plain sensationalism would do.
The detectives were led to the Blue Sea Cottage in La Jolla, where Fritzie may have been murdered or met with an accidental death. She and a gentleman checked in as husband and wife, however, who the gentleman was and what happened in the cottage is speculation. A trial ensues, but no one is ever convicted of Fritzie’s death.
The book is written as narrative nonfiction/true-crime, and the author spent 9 years researching newspaper articles, trial transcripts and court documents. The book is well-researched, providing insight into what may have happened, and gives a fascinating chronicle of the times.
Sorry if I haven’t provided more details on Fritzie’s life and death, but I think this was a well-written and intriguing story, and don’t want to offer up any spoilers.
https://candysplanet.wordpress.com/
October 21, 2021
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Like most people, I have always been fascinated by an unsolved mystery. Though I’d never heard of Fritzie Mann or her untimely death, I was instantly hooked by the description of this book, and it doesn’t disappoint. The author brings Jazz Age San Diego to life, a d gives a well-researched and meticulous account of the events surrounding Mann’s death and through the trial. (And yes, he gives his opinion on whodunnit—backed up with the facts of the case.) it’s easy to read and compelling without being sensational. Definitely a recommendation to true-crime buffs.
Like most people, I have always been fascinated by an unsolved mystery. Though I’d never heard of Fritzie Mann or her untimely death, I was instantly hooked by the description of this book, and it doesn’t disappoint. The author brings Jazz Age San Diego to life, a d gives a well-researched and meticulous account of the events surrounding Mann’s death and through the trial. (And yes, he gives his opinion on whodunnit—backed up with the facts of the case.) it’s easy to read and compelling without being sensational. Definitely a recommendation to true-crime buffs.
October 5, 2021
Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage
Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage is Set in the Jazz Age in San Diego. It is the true story of a beautiful dancer called Frieda Mann (Fritzie stage name) who In January 1923 was very elusive with her mum Amelia Mann when she asked where she was going and who with. Fritzie refused to tell her mum who she was meeting and kept her secret as she left home.
Fritzie left home wearing a party dress which she had borrowed from a friend and was found the next day as her body was washed up on lonely Torrey Pines beach and her possessions were strewn about. Was it suicide, murder, or an accidental drowning?
The story is extremely well told, and the Author James Stewart has done a lot of research into this unsolved murder from 100 years ago, to produce a very good book. Who killed Fritzie and why? Fritzie’s was a dancer and as the investigation gets underway her Hollywood connections come to light and the investigation shifts to L.A. Were the story became a nation-wide sensation.
Fritzie is involved with a playboy actor Roger Clark and a debonair doctor Louis L Jacob’s. Fritzie Mann is also found to be four months pregnant which was a shocking scandal back then but like nowadays the juicier and better the scandal the more the papers will sell.
Unlike the 1920’s where there was no forensics, The police, reporters, people who lived in the community would be found to contaminate the crime scene by all walking near the body, corruption was also rife, and people would be told what to say in court, so testimony changed a lot.
Today we have forensics, cell phones, cameras etc so after reading the book when you look at the full story you can deduce what happened to Fritzie Mann and come up with several different scenarios of how she was murdered.
A beautifully read and some very nice pictures of Fritzie at clubs.
Thanks to Wildblue Press I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage is Set in the Jazz Age in San Diego. It is the true story of a beautiful dancer called Frieda Mann (Fritzie stage name) who In January 1923 was very elusive with her mum Amelia Mann when she asked where she was going and who with. Fritzie refused to tell her mum who she was meeting and kept her secret as she left home.
Fritzie left home wearing a party dress which she had borrowed from a friend and was found the next day as her body was washed up on lonely Torrey Pines beach and her possessions were strewn about. Was it suicide, murder, or an accidental drowning?
The story is extremely well told, and the Author James Stewart has done a lot of research into this unsolved murder from 100 years ago, to produce a very good book. Who killed Fritzie and why? Fritzie’s was a dancer and as the investigation gets underway her Hollywood connections come to light and the investigation shifts to L.A. Were the story became a nation-wide sensation.
Fritzie is involved with a playboy actor Roger Clark and a debonair doctor Louis L Jacob’s. Fritzie Mann is also found to be four months pregnant which was a shocking scandal back then but like nowadays the juicier and better the scandal the more the papers will sell.
Unlike the 1920’s where there was no forensics, The police, reporters, people who lived in the community would be found to contaminate the crime scene by all walking near the body, corruption was also rife, and people would be told what to say in court, so testimony changed a lot.
Today we have forensics, cell phones, cameras etc so after reading the book when you look at the full story you can deduce what happened to Fritzie Mann and come up with several different scenarios of how she was murdered.
A beautifully read and some very nice pictures of Fritzie at clubs.
Thanks to Wildblue Press I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 5, 2021
Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage.
Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage is Set in the Jazz Age in San Diego. It is the true story of a beautiful dancer called Frieda Mann (Fritzie stage name) who In January 1923 was very elusive with her mum Amelia Mann when she asked where she was going and who with. Fritzie refused to tell her mum who she was meeting and kept her secret as she left home.
Fritzie left home wearing a party dress which she had borrowed from a friend and was found the next day as her body was washed up on lonely Torrey Pines beach and her possessions were strewn about. Was it suicide, murder, or an accidental drowning?
The story is extremely well told, and the Author James Stewart has done a lot of research into this unsolved murder from 100 years ago, to produce a very good book. Who killed Fritzie and why? Fritzie’s was a dancer and as the investigation gets underway her Hollywood connections come to light and the investigation shifts to L.A. Were the story became a nation-wide sensation.
Fritzie is involved with a playboy actor Roger Clark and a debonair doctor Louis L Jacob’s. Fritzie Mann is also found to be four months pregnant which was a shocking scandal back then but like nowadays the juicier and better the scandal the more the papers will sell.
Unlike the 1920’s where there was no forensics, The police, reporters, people who lived in the community would be found to contaminate the crime scene by all walking near the body, corruption was also rife, and people would be told what to say in court, so testimony changed a lot.
Today we have forensics, cell phones, cameras etc so after reading the book when you look at the full story you can deduce what happened to Fritzie Mann and come up with several different scenarios of how she was murdered.
A beautifully read and some very nice pictures of Fritzie at clubs.
Thanks to Wildblue Press I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage is Set in the Jazz Age in San Diego. It is the true story of a beautiful dancer called Frieda Mann (Fritzie stage name) who In January 1923 was very elusive with her mum Amelia Mann when she asked where she was going and who with. Fritzie refused to tell her mum who she was meeting and kept her secret as she left home.
Fritzie left home wearing a party dress which she had borrowed from a friend and was found the next day as her body was washed up on lonely Torrey Pines beach and her possessions were strewn about. Was it suicide, murder, or an accidental drowning?
The story is extremely well told, and the Author James Stewart has done a lot of research into this unsolved murder from 100 years ago, to produce a very good book. Who killed Fritzie and why? Fritzie’s was a dancer and as the investigation gets underway her Hollywood connections come to light and the investigation shifts to L.A. Were the story became a nation-wide sensation.
Fritzie is involved with a playboy actor Roger Clark and a debonair doctor Louis L Jacob’s. Fritzie Mann is also found to be four months pregnant which was a shocking scandal back then but like nowadays the juicier and better the scandal the more the papers will sell.
Unlike the 1920’s where there was no forensics, The police, reporters, people who lived in the community would be found to contaminate the crime scene by all walking near the body, corruption was also rife, and people would be told what to say in court, so testimony changed a lot.
Today we have forensics, cell phones, cameras etc so after reading the book when you look at the full story you can deduce what happened to Fritzie Mann and come up with several different scenarios of how she was murdered.
A beautifully read and some very nice pictures of Fritzie at clubs.
Thanks to Wildblue Press I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 5, 2021
1/14/1923, San Diego, CA. Jazz age era. Fritzie Mann (Caucasian-American, 20, flapper, dancer) left home to meet a man whose identity she would forever keep a secret.
John Chase (husband/father, bookkeeper), Mrs. Chase (wife/mother), & Russell Chase (9), 2 children stopped for a Torrey Pines beach picnic lunch.
The body of a dead woman (20+) lay 15’ from the water’s edge.
Deputy Sheriff John Bludworth & Schuyler Kelly (San Diego County coroner) arrived at the crime scene.
The body had been ID as Fritzie Mann.
Smith, Goodbody & Dunn funeral home. Dr. John Shea (autopsy surgeon, Harvard Medical School) examined the corpse.
Dr. Harold Thompson performed the 2nd autopsy in the morgue of Johnson & Saum’s.
1/1910, The Mann immigrant family: Isidor (Polish, husband/father, tuberculosis), Amalia (Hungarian, wife/mother), Wilhelm “William” (son/brother), Helena (daughter/sister), & Frieda (daughter/sister) departed from Trieste, Italy, aboard the liner S.S. Martha Washington bound for NYC, NY.
They checked into at Ellis Island like all the others.
The moved from Nashville TN to Denver CO.
Isidor passed away & Amalia & the children moved to San Diego CA.
1/17/1923, Dorothy Armstrong (Fritzie’s BFF, interpretive dancer) was interviewed by Chief James Patrick (San Diego PD, Spanish-American War vet).
Others who were interviewed: Bernice Edwards (Fritzie’s BFF); Dorothy Armstrong (Fritzie’s BFF); Helen Whitney (20+, Fritzie’s BFF, law firm stenographer); Albert Kern & Mary Kern (Blue Sea Cottages mgr.’s); Mr. Albert “Al” Flowers (stepfather); Ms. Gladys Taylor (stepdaughter); & many more.
San Diego Superior Court. 3/26/1923, All rise. The District Court of San Diego County is now in session, The Honorable Judge Spencer Marsh is presiding.
The People of California versus Louis L. Jacobs.
Prosecution: DA Chester Kempley
Defense: Paul Schenck (lead defense Attorney), James “Jimmy” Wadham (Louis attorney, San Diego Mayor, Harvard U), Dr. Louis L. Jacobs (defendant)
Witnesses: John Chase (San Fernando fruit packer); Motorcycle Cops Clarence Matthews & Robert Bowman; Harley Sachs (garage man); Deputy Sheriff John Bludworth
Rabbi Maxwell Dubin provided the blessings & Fritzi Mann was put to rest this afternoon.
4/17/1923, The jury foreman announced the hung jury, & the DA said he intended to re-try the case.
2nd trail
Judge Spencer Marsh (68)
Prosecution: ADA Guy Selleck,
Defense: Louis Shapiro (Louis 1st cousin, attorney), Clifford Fitzgerald (26, attorney, USC), Dr. Louis L. Jacobs (defendant)
Prosecution witness: Patrol Cop George Churchman, Albert Kern, Mary Kern (Blue Sea Cottages co-mgrs.), Mrs. Spencer, DA Amelia Mann, Mr. Alvin Johnston, DS Chadwick, DS Sears, Dr. John Shea (autopsy surgeon), Paul Schenck, Dorothy Armstrong, Bernice Edwards, Helen Whitney, Rosie de Cacho (Dr. Little’s Sanitarium patient, a charge of insanity), Alvin Johnston, Milton Carlson handwriting expert, Bertie Thompson, William Miller Camp Kearny (hospital boiler tender), Blanche Jones (Camp Kearny former nurse), Blanche Jones, Richard McCauley Camp Kearny (long-term patient, WWI vet),
Spectators: Jimmy Wadham, Clifford Fitzgerald (Wadham’s firm Jr. partner), Detective Wisler, David Rannells (gas/oil station owner), Dr. A. F. Wagner (LA County autopsy surgeon),
The People rested.
Defense witness: Mrs. Ella Worthington, waitress Harvey’s Lunch Counter (Santa Fe Depot), several Golden Lion cashiers & waitresses, Ada Beach,
The case went to the jury on 7/20/1923.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written murder mystery (true story) book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a enormous description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini-TV series, or even a documentary (A & E; History; PBS). There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Wild Blue Press; BookFunnel; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
John Chase (husband/father, bookkeeper), Mrs. Chase (wife/mother), & Russell Chase (9), 2 children stopped for a Torrey Pines beach picnic lunch.
The body of a dead woman (20+) lay 15’ from the water’s edge.
Deputy Sheriff John Bludworth & Schuyler Kelly (San Diego County coroner) arrived at the crime scene.
The body had been ID as Fritzie Mann.
Smith, Goodbody & Dunn funeral home. Dr. John Shea (autopsy surgeon, Harvard Medical School) examined the corpse.
Dr. Harold Thompson performed the 2nd autopsy in the morgue of Johnson & Saum’s.
1/1910, The Mann immigrant family: Isidor (Polish, husband/father, tuberculosis), Amalia (Hungarian, wife/mother), Wilhelm “William” (son/brother), Helena (daughter/sister), & Frieda (daughter/sister) departed from Trieste, Italy, aboard the liner S.S. Martha Washington bound for NYC, NY.
They checked into at Ellis Island like all the others.
The moved from Nashville TN to Denver CO.
Isidor passed away & Amalia & the children moved to San Diego CA.
1/17/1923, Dorothy Armstrong (Fritzie’s BFF, interpretive dancer) was interviewed by Chief James Patrick (San Diego PD, Spanish-American War vet).
Others who were interviewed: Bernice Edwards (Fritzie’s BFF); Dorothy Armstrong (Fritzie’s BFF); Helen Whitney (20+, Fritzie’s BFF, law firm stenographer); Albert Kern & Mary Kern (Blue Sea Cottages mgr.’s); Mr. Albert “Al” Flowers (stepfather); Ms. Gladys Taylor (stepdaughter); & many more.
San Diego Superior Court. 3/26/1923, All rise. The District Court of San Diego County is now in session, The Honorable Judge Spencer Marsh is presiding.
The People of California versus Louis L. Jacobs.
Prosecution: DA Chester Kempley
Defense: Paul Schenck (lead defense Attorney), James “Jimmy” Wadham (Louis attorney, San Diego Mayor, Harvard U), Dr. Louis L. Jacobs (defendant)
Witnesses: John Chase (San Fernando fruit packer); Motorcycle Cops Clarence Matthews & Robert Bowman; Harley Sachs (garage man); Deputy Sheriff John Bludworth
Rabbi Maxwell Dubin provided the blessings & Fritzi Mann was put to rest this afternoon.
4/17/1923, The jury foreman announced the hung jury, & the DA said he intended to re-try the case.
2nd trail
Judge Spencer Marsh (68)
Prosecution: ADA Guy Selleck,
Defense: Louis Shapiro (Louis 1st cousin, attorney), Clifford Fitzgerald (26, attorney, USC), Dr. Louis L. Jacobs (defendant)
Prosecution witness: Patrol Cop George Churchman, Albert Kern, Mary Kern (Blue Sea Cottages co-mgrs.), Mrs. Spencer, DA Amelia Mann, Mr. Alvin Johnston, DS Chadwick, DS Sears, Dr. John Shea (autopsy surgeon), Paul Schenck, Dorothy Armstrong, Bernice Edwards, Helen Whitney, Rosie de Cacho (Dr. Little’s Sanitarium patient, a charge of insanity), Alvin Johnston, Milton Carlson handwriting expert, Bertie Thompson, William Miller Camp Kearny (hospital boiler tender), Blanche Jones (Camp Kearny former nurse), Blanche Jones, Richard McCauley Camp Kearny (long-term patient, WWI vet),
Spectators: Jimmy Wadham, Clifford Fitzgerald (Wadham’s firm Jr. partner), Detective Wisler, David Rannells (gas/oil station owner), Dr. A. F. Wagner (LA County autopsy surgeon),
The People rested.
Defense witness: Mrs. Ella Worthington, waitress Harvey’s Lunch Counter (Santa Fe Depot), several Golden Lion cashiers & waitresses, Ada Beach,
The case went to the jury on 7/20/1923.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written murder mystery (true story) book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a enormous description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini-TV series, or even a documentary (A & E; History; PBS). There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Wild Blue Press; BookFunnel; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
November 16, 2021
Reaching back in time to the roaring 20’s in southern California, author James Stewart’s debut work, Mystery at the Blue Sea Cottage, offers a compelling view of the intricacies of an unsolved homicide, the murder of young and beautiful, interpretive dancer, Fritzie Mann.
Based on years of research, this true-crime narrative poses an adept tracing of the history of this once sensationalized murder mystery brought forth through a multi-faceted lens which explores not only the murder but journalistic behaviors, the investigative processes during that era, and a Hollywood sex scandal connection as well as exploring the culture of the time.
Piquing the curiosity from the outset, this work of true crime immediately draws the attention into the fascinating backstory of Fritzie who, for the most part, was a seemingly sensible but “modern” woman in her early twenties who worked to help with her sick sister’s medical bills by dancing. However, to her family, there was an air of mystery in her life when it came to her romantic associations, relationships or dating.
Fritzie’s tragic story starts with the initial discovery of her body with a severe bruise on her forehead on a nearly empty stretch of beach. Initially unidentified as a corpse, it was not until several clues leading to her identification, including a note on a card stating “I am Fritzie Mann” along with other identifying but not immediately associated belongings strewn around the beach, began to build up to her true identity especially once the connection was made that she was a well-known exotic dancer. Her death quickly became front page fodder and grew into one of the most sensationalized news stories at the time in Southern California.
Additionally, the ensuing investigation seemed to lead to a path of evidentiary twists and turns, as clues led to inconsistent theories about her death; Was she murdered? Did she commit suicide? or Did she drown? Moreover, she was discovered to be in “delicate condition” adding more confusion and scandal as to the real reason for her demise. Albeit, once it was discovered that she actually was murdered, Who did it? and Why? became the prevalent questions which then changed the tone of the investigation and introduced several interesting suspects including a Hollywood actor whom Fritzie’s mother insisted was the actual murderer. Moreover, what follows within the narrative is a well- organized, thoroughly detailed work which takes the readers through the intimate details of the life and death of Fritzie as well as bringing to the edifying forefront the culture and lifestyle at the time which did seem to embody a seamier side.
Overall, I enjoyed Mystery at the Blue Sea Cottage. I found it to be a completely engrossing true crime read set in an era when life, love, womanhood and murder were perceived very differently from current modern life. I was captivated by the detailing of the police work, autopsy scenes, investigation methods, culture of the times, and insight into the secrets and scandals played out in the roaring 20’s Hollywood. I do highly recommend this book. It is well worth the read and I personally would love to see it made into a movie.
Based on years of research, this true-crime narrative poses an adept tracing of the history of this once sensationalized murder mystery brought forth through a multi-faceted lens which explores not only the murder but journalistic behaviors, the investigative processes during that era, and a Hollywood sex scandal connection as well as exploring the culture of the time.
Piquing the curiosity from the outset, this work of true crime immediately draws the attention into the fascinating backstory of Fritzie who, for the most part, was a seemingly sensible but “modern” woman in her early twenties who worked to help with her sick sister’s medical bills by dancing. However, to her family, there was an air of mystery in her life when it came to her romantic associations, relationships or dating.
Fritzie’s tragic story starts with the initial discovery of her body with a severe bruise on her forehead on a nearly empty stretch of beach. Initially unidentified as a corpse, it was not until several clues leading to her identification, including a note on a card stating “I am Fritzie Mann” along with other identifying but not immediately associated belongings strewn around the beach, began to build up to her true identity especially once the connection was made that she was a well-known exotic dancer. Her death quickly became front page fodder and grew into one of the most sensationalized news stories at the time in Southern California.
Additionally, the ensuing investigation seemed to lead to a path of evidentiary twists and turns, as clues led to inconsistent theories about her death; Was she murdered? Did she commit suicide? or Did she drown? Moreover, she was discovered to be in “delicate condition” adding more confusion and scandal as to the real reason for her demise. Albeit, once it was discovered that she actually was murdered, Who did it? and Why? became the prevalent questions which then changed the tone of the investigation and introduced several interesting suspects including a Hollywood actor whom Fritzie’s mother insisted was the actual murderer. Moreover, what follows within the narrative is a well- organized, thoroughly detailed work which takes the readers through the intimate details of the life and death of Fritzie as well as bringing to the edifying forefront the culture and lifestyle at the time which did seem to embody a seamier side.
Overall, I enjoyed Mystery at the Blue Sea Cottage. I found it to be a completely engrossing true crime read set in an era when life, love, womanhood and murder were perceived very differently from current modern life. I was captivated by the detailing of the police work, autopsy scenes, investigation methods, culture of the times, and insight into the secrets and scandals played out in the roaring 20’s Hollywood. I do highly recommend this book. It is well worth the read and I personally would love to see it made into a movie.
January 27, 2024
Now that I have written a narrative nonfiction book, I have a truly deep respect for everyone else who has written one too. I was particularly impressed by an author's note at the beginning of this one that explains that he worked on this book for NINE YEARS. The deep level of research comes through in the book, which recounts a murder case in 1920s San Diego. Stewart did an incredible job of finding primary resources related to a nearly 100-year-old cold case. He presents the story in very readable way, reminiscent of good long-form journalism.
The challenge with this book is that the conclusion is a bit unsatisfactory. As with many riveting true-crime treatments (the first season of Serial, Making a Murderer, etc.), each revelation leaves you with more questions than answers. By the end of this book, I was equally convinced that the primary suspect both had and had not directly killed Fritzie, though it seemed unquestionable to me that he was involved.
Still, even without a solid conclusion, the themes in this book are shockingly relevant today. Issues of class, social status, and gender play into the story. And if police procedure and science had been more sophisticated, Fritzie's killer may have been caught immediately. I also enjoyed getting a glimpse into what the city of San Diego was like in the 1920s, and Stewart did a fantastic job of bringing it to life.
A note on the audiobook: A generally straight read without a lot of dramatic flourishing (a pet peeve of mine), though again the male narrator has the infuriating habit of reading women's dialogue in a lilting voice that makes it sound like he's mocking them, a common problem in audio narration.
The challenge with this book is that the conclusion is a bit unsatisfactory. As with many riveting true-crime treatments (the first season of Serial, Making a Murderer, etc.), each revelation leaves you with more questions than answers. By the end of this book, I was equally convinced that the primary suspect both had and had not directly killed Fritzie, though it seemed unquestionable to me that he was involved.
Still, even without a solid conclusion, the themes in this book are shockingly relevant today. Issues of class, social status, and gender play into the story. And if police procedure and science had been more sophisticated, Fritzie's killer may have been caught immediately. I also enjoyed getting a glimpse into what the city of San Diego was like in the 1920s, and Stewart did a fantastic job of bringing it to life.
A note on the audiobook: A generally straight read without a lot of dramatic flourishing (a pet peeve of mine), though again the male narrator has the infuriating habit of reading women's dialogue in a lilting voice that makes it sound like he's mocking them, a common problem in audio narration.
December 2, 2022
The murder of a young woman, found nude on the beach, begins one of the most complex, and intense investigations that San Diego had dealt with.
Fritzie Mann, a vivacious dancer, was found on the beach by a young boy. After alerting his father, who flagged someone down to alert the police, another person had to take a look before phoning authorities (cause lookie-loos are in abundance). Once the investigation got underway, there were problems from the start.
Many witnesses were unreliable, unsure of what they had seen, while others did not want to get involved. The police used many questionable tactics, including intimidation to get the information they wanted, not necessarily the correct information. While the family wanted justice, the police department just wanted a conviction. As the main players came into focus, it narrowed down to two main suspects, and there was not a very strong case against either. What was to follow during the investigation, the trial, and the subsequent questions leave a case today that still has lingering questions.
This was a fabulous read! The book goes through the different aspects of the case, the complexities, hidden players, dubious evidence, and so much more. James Stewart lays out the case and the story of the main suspects, and Fritzie Mann in a way that allows you to connect with them, while drawing more attention to the open ends of the case.
While quite a bit of time has passed since the murder of Fritzie, there are still questions, and questions deserve answers.
True crime lovers - you will enjoy this one! It is a great weekend read!
Fritzie Mann, a vivacious dancer, was found on the beach by a young boy. After alerting his father, who flagged someone down to alert the police, another person had to take a look before phoning authorities (cause lookie-loos are in abundance). Once the investigation got underway, there were problems from the start.
Many witnesses were unreliable, unsure of what they had seen, while others did not want to get involved. The police used many questionable tactics, including intimidation to get the information they wanted, not necessarily the correct information. While the family wanted justice, the police department just wanted a conviction. As the main players came into focus, it narrowed down to two main suspects, and there was not a very strong case against either. What was to follow during the investigation, the trial, and the subsequent questions leave a case today that still has lingering questions.
This was a fabulous read! The book goes through the different aspects of the case, the complexities, hidden players, dubious evidence, and so much more. James Stewart lays out the case and the story of the main suspects, and Fritzie Mann in a way that allows you to connect with them, while drawing more attention to the open ends of the case.
While quite a bit of time has passed since the murder of Fritzie, there are still questions, and questions deserve answers.
True crime lovers - you will enjoy this one! It is a great weekend read!
December 19, 2022
If you are into true crime or the Roaring 20’s then you will love this! The story seems to be very well researched and it is almost difficult to discern the author’s personal additions to the narrative for reading ease. The amount of information regarding the investigation and subsequent trials feels very complete.
The piece feels a lot longer than it truly is. That is because the author has broken the story down into truly child size bites. I am not against that. I think the purpose was to keep the story organized in a manageable way for the reader to get as much information as possible and still be able to follow everything that was going on simultainously. It is the story of an up and coming interpretive oriental dancer. A young jewish girl just trying to make something of herself while navigating the upheaving societal ecosystem that still depended on the old foundations for its functioning. It was very easy for a young girl, especially so close to Hollywood, to experience more of the worst of those changes in social norms, while just wanting to better her lot in life.
Poor Fritzie Mann was subjected to the worst of those clashes of new and old societal currents. She wanted a life of fame, instead it was her death that upstaged her life. Found barely dressed dead on an isolated beach, her last hours are still a mystery waiting to be as exposed.
After 100 years, lengthy investigation, two trials, and numerous news articles there are still unanswered questions.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
The piece feels a lot longer than it truly is. That is because the author has broken the story down into truly child size bites. I am not against that. I think the purpose was to keep the story organized in a manageable way for the reader to get as much information as possible and still be able to follow everything that was going on simultainously. It is the story of an up and coming interpretive oriental dancer. A young jewish girl just trying to make something of herself while navigating the upheaving societal ecosystem that still depended on the old foundations for its functioning. It was very easy for a young girl, especially so close to Hollywood, to experience more of the worst of those changes in social norms, while just wanting to better her lot in life.
Poor Fritzie Mann was subjected to the worst of those clashes of new and old societal currents. She wanted a life of fame, instead it was her death that upstaged her life. Found barely dressed dead on an isolated beach, her last hours are still a mystery waiting to be as exposed.
After 100 years, lengthy investigation, two trials, and numerous news articles there are still unanswered questions.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
October 14, 2021
When Fritzy Mann left her family home for a house party, no one knew it would be the last time and that the next day she would be found on fox beach with a bruise on her head and dead. Her mother thought it was a handsome actor, but the sheriff thought it was a Jewish doctor… Who would be right? I found this book well researched and unlike a lot of historical true crime books and healthy opinions a bad day. That is a big pet peeve of mine when people write books about history but give modern opinions. That wasn’t the case with this book as I said it was well researched a troop Page turner. Historical true crime as one of my favorite genres and I must say this is one of the better books I have read in that genre. I’ll look forward to reading more books by this author if they are all as good as this one I will probably wind up reading all of them. I highly recommend this book to those who like historical true crime or just true crime in general. It really is worth the read!
June 6, 2022
Book Sirens eARC. I have always enjoyed true crime and been fascinated by the roaring 20s. The Jazz Age was a time of transformation with the advent of Hollywood talkies, new music, new fashions and social changes. The "flapper" girl became the icon of the era. Freida "Fritzi" Mann, 20, was one such girl making her mark as an interpretive dancer on the entertainment scene. When her body was found on an isolated beach on a January morning in 1923 the "yellow" journalism of the time had a field day although not always accurately. Pretty and popular there were no shortage of suspects and autopsy findings of pregnancy provided motive. Despite two trials and years of speculation her murder remains unsolved. What really happened that night in cabin 33 at Blue Sea Cottages and who was the well dressed man with her? Rich in historical detail the author did an excellent job of research and documentation in this non fiction narrative. Recommend to any history and true crime buff.
March 2, 2022
Interesting Case
Stewart shares the story of Fritzie Mann, a woman washed up on the shore of Torrey Pines beach. She was a dancer. She also was secretive. The case is very interesting, and it made investigators indecisive, as to what happened. This was 1923. Later, a major scandal was discovered about my Mann was probably killed. I found it to be an interesting case, especially since it was so long ago, and the technology they have now, definitely did not exist in the 1920's. It was all know-how and investigative skills. Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage is a wonderous true story that brings not only the case of Mann to the present, but also shows the influence that Hollywood still has today. Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage: A True Story of Murder in San Diego's Jazz Age is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author.
Stewart shares the story of Fritzie Mann, a woman washed up on the shore of Torrey Pines beach. She was a dancer. She also was secretive. The case is very interesting, and it made investigators indecisive, as to what happened. This was 1923. Later, a major scandal was discovered about my Mann was probably killed. I found it to be an interesting case, especially since it was so long ago, and the technology they have now, definitely did not exist in the 1920's. It was all know-how and investigative skills. Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage is a wonderous true story that brings not only the case of Mann to the present, but also shows the influence that Hollywood still has today. Mystery At The Blue Sea Cottage: A True Story of Murder in San Diego's Jazz Age is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author.
June 14, 2022
Set in the roaring 20's, James Stewart does an outstanding job in this narrative nonfiction story of the death of Frida (Fritzie) Mann.
Stewart's narration weeds through the sensationalism to give you clear facts surrounding this young woman's life. Fritzie's life of rebellion of the times covered in most all histories of this era.
Details of mistakes in the case starting soon after her bodies discovery, to how a generation help reputation as the highest regard and how decisions could quickly ruin some careers. Stewart further brings to light through facts in this case how with all generations interpretation of one's actions can be wrong without knowing more about the situation.
A must read for those who love true crime and mysteries as to this day the mysteries behind Fritzie Mann's death still remain.
I received a copy for free and, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Stewart's narration weeds through the sensationalism to give you clear facts surrounding this young woman's life. Fritzie's life of rebellion of the times covered in most all histories of this era.
Details of mistakes in the case starting soon after her bodies discovery, to how a generation help reputation as the highest regard and how decisions could quickly ruin some careers. Stewart further brings to light through facts in this case how with all generations interpretation of one's actions can be wrong without knowing more about the situation.
A must read for those who love true crime and mysteries as to this day the mysteries behind Fritzie Mann's death still remain.
I received a copy for free and, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 6, 2022
3.5 - A roaring 20s true crime story? I was immediately intrigued! I feel like I've heard about Fritzie Mann somewhere before, but I could be confusing her story with someone else's.
First off, I have to say kudos to James Stewart and his dedication to the research. He took a good look at every angle of the puzzle, putting them together and speculating what might have happened. The pictures were also a great addition. As for the writing, it dragged in places for me and I didn't feel my interest consistently held, but there were some interesting bits that made up for the others. Overall, a good true crime read, especially if you like the pre-forensic era and speculation.
Thanks to BookSirens for providing a free review copy. I am leaving my thoughts voluntarily.
First off, I have to say kudos to James Stewart and his dedication to the research. He took a good look at every angle of the puzzle, putting them together and speculating what might have happened. The pictures were also a great addition. As for the writing, it dragged in places for me and I didn't feel my interest consistently held, but there were some interesting bits that made up for the others. Overall, a good true crime read, especially if you like the pre-forensic era and speculation.
Thanks to BookSirens for providing a free review copy. I am leaving my thoughts voluntarily.
May 23, 2023
Such a sad and tragic story. Just like the Grace Brown story in New York. Man gets women pregnant and murders her instead of marrying her. She was a 20 year old dancer who loved her doctor boyfriend who was 11 years older. He went free after two trials for the dancers murder. He ended up marrying a rich women much older than he was that he was seeing along with the dancer. He may have tried to perform an abortion to put her under so he could cause harm without her being aware. He left her body on the beach at Torry Pines Beach in January, 1923.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2023
Five stars. I’ve read a lot of true crime. This book is a bit academic at first. But it’s clear as it goes on that the writer has done some fine, revealing work. Meticulously researched and written with the proper authority and perspective. I felt like I was reading the notes of a detective as he solved the case. Also loved the backdrop of the 1920s and the dives he takes into culture and characters.
July 29, 2023
It did not click with me until the end that I was reading this about 100 years and a couple of weeks after the events of the trial. I did enjoy reading this book. The way James Stewart presented the crime, the investigation, and trial was good. He did not go into too many details to loose you. Though sometimes he felt like he referred to other case a couple of times, but referencing them like he was mentioning them for the first. Overall, if you are into True Crime, this a good one to read.
December 15, 2022
Very good whodunit which is a true story about the death of a lovely 21 year old flapper in old San Diego. The author does a job of researching the story. The investigation holds your interest until the end. Highly recommended for those readers that enjoy 1920s true crime books.
July 6, 2024
Good Book
Interesting detail on methods and procedures during the prohibition era by authorities. Good story on the murder of a silly woman before her time that went through a tragedy but didn’t survive.
Interesting detail on methods and procedures during the prohibition era by authorities. Good story on the murder of a silly woman before her time that went through a tragedy but didn’t survive.
December 19, 2021
The story is sad, and not having anyone conviucted for the murder is especially disconcerting. The writing is rather flat, but it was an easy read.
September 7, 2022
This is a really well researched book and easy to follow, drags a little but still a good read.
October 6, 2022
Very good book
It was interesting learning about San Diego's history and how small it was then! Hard to believe that there are so many people here now.
It was interesting learning about San Diego's history and how small it was then! Hard to believe that there are so many people here now.
August 25, 2025
This was an interesting and sad unsolved true crime case. The guilty party may have been identified but the investigation techniques were not sophisticated enough to prove it to a jury at the time.
Want to read
October 4, 2021Due out tomorrow. Review to follow soon.
January 17, 2026
Listen, I’m a San Diego girl born and bred, so I’ll read just about anything on my city. But my god was this dull. The story stretched on and on, desperately trying to achieve a word count long enough to justify its printing cost. Honestly this would have worked much better as a podcast.
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