Ruth of the U. S. A.

"Ruth of the U. S. A." by Edwin Balmer is a historical fiction novel set during the end of World War I, and follows the life of Ruth Alden, a Chicago woman who finds her ordinary existence upended by love and the shadow of global conflict. The story begins as Ruth eagerly awaits the return of Gerry Hull, a soldier with whom she has a deep connection. As she goes about her life working in real estate, the realities of the war and her feelings for Gerry ignite within her a desire to serve her country. A chance encounter with a beggar leads Ruth to a mysterious discovery of a passport and a large sum of money, thrusting her into a world of espionage and potentially giving her the chance to make a significant contribution to the war effort, all while grappling with her sense of duty and personal aspirations.