The Composer's Legacy

"Celebrated music professor David Whealy from the University of California Davis becomes the recipient of an unexpected inheritance from a complete stranger on the opposite side of the country. As David explores the secrets of his mysterious benefactor, James Burton West, he finds more than just a remodeled home on the Delaware coast.

Through the journals and correspondence West leaves behind, David embarks on a journey of discovery that takes him deeper into the world of an intensely private and humble man who went through the last years of his life alone. And off the grid.

Also waiting for David to discover is the promised treasure trove of original and unpublished autograph scores, the quality and quantity of which would rival that of the great composers.

West knew precious little about his estate that had been in continuous family hands since 1724. He knew nothing about his enigmatic ancestor, a Thomas of "historic import," nor the origins of that ancient iron key. A key that held a secret even James Burton West remained ignorant of to his death.
 
A secret which may well have redrawn the map of the United States."