The Act of Settlement: The American Who Would be King

5 Star Review

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Editorial Book Review:

By SB Borcy

Peter J. Murgio's The Act of Settlement immediately captivates the reader with its blend of political intrigue, historical importance, and personal drama. From the beginning of William Carnegie's narrative, the novel engages the reader in a world of privilege, ambition, and the weight of secrets that traverse continents. Interacting with it is akin to immersing oneself in a carefully crafted thriller, where each decision carries significance and the results are both impactful and meaningful. The narrative promotes reflection on identity, authority, and the hidden forces that shape lives.

At its core, the book explores themes of ambition, legacy, and the interplay between personal history and public accountability. Carnegie’s trajectory—progressing from esteemed educational institutions to military service and ultimately to the political sphere—highlights the complex relationship among privilege, opportunity, and ethical considerations. Beyond the particulars of his journey, the narrative universally engages with inquiries regarding obligations to family, nation, and oneself, as well as the ways in which secrets can influence the trajectory of life.

Murgio's writing is refined, intentional, and cinematic. He combines concise narrative pacing with introspective passages that enable readers to comprehend the characters' internal struggles. Dialogue is authentic and insightful, and his portrayals of both London and Washington D.C. environments are vivid, anchoring the high-stakes political narrative in familiar, concrete settings. Occasionally, the exposition may appear dense; however, this depth guarantees that the stakes and historical context remain clearly articulated.

Notable moments encompass Carnegie's introspective examination of his past concerning his public aspirations, the intrinsic tension in reconciling political strategy with personal allegiance, and the nuanced evolution of his possible claim to royalty. These passages are tense, complex, and emotionally engaging, demonstrating Murgio’s proficiency in combining suspense with nuanced character development.

Ultimately, The Act of Settlement offers a compelling examination of authority, identity, and ethical implications. It is a novel that both captivates and prompts reflection on ambition, responsibility, and the fragility of reputation. Readers who value political thrillers enhanced with historical context and thoroughly developed characters will discover this book to be both compelling and unforgettable.

About the Author 

Peter J. Murgio

Peter J. Murgio, a retired entrepreneur and real-estate investor, is a lifelong Anglophile. Frequent trips to the United Kingdom and his extensive research fostered Mr. Murgio's keen interest in English history, art, architecture, and contemporary literature, particularly things relating to the Monarchy. His wife's ancestors were prominent Britons with roots purportedly dating back to the 1600s. 

Mr. Murgio received his Bachelor of Science degree from Monmouth University, where he majored in business and economics. He immediately entered military service and was assigned to the Adjutant General Corps of the United States Army, where he was stationed first at Fort Carlson, Colorado, and later in Command Headquarters in Seoul, Korea. Upon completion of his tour of duty, he was awarded the Army Accommodation Award for outstanding meritorious service. 

Mr. Murgio started his professional career on Wall Street at the American Stock Exchange, where he served as assistant to the Vice Chairman of the Board. He quickly rose to a management position in the Information Services Division. After a short stint as a Marketing Manager at the General Electric Company, Genegraphic's Division, he moved to Connecticut, where he joined and later purchased a small office furniture dealership. Over the next 30-plus years, the company grew from 25 employees to more than two thousand. At one point, it was the largest dealership of its kind in the industry, with offices in the US, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. In 2010, the firm was sold to a multibillion-dollar NYSE corporation and Mr. Murgio retired. 

For more than a decade, Mr. Murgio sat on the board of directors of Avon Old Farms School, The Woodhall School, and served as Vice President of the Board of Directors of his New York City co-op. 

Formerly residing in New York City and Connecticut, the Author is a now resident of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, where he fills his time writing and watching his wife have the time of her life--a richly deserved reward after years of being the perfect Mother, loving partner, and corporate wife. The Murgios are proud parents of two adult boys, both married and in the mergers and acquisitions industry, and they are blessed with two grandchildren.