[catalog] The Ashbury

The Ashbury

The Ashbury is a 13-chapter B2 mystery serial about Vincent Russo, superintendent of an old Brooklyn Heights building, who unravels his late father Antonio’s secret life as a “custodian” — a man who built hidden compartments in the walls for tenants to safeguard precious items. When a real-estate developer pressures the building’s shareholders to sell, a detective investigates a serial trespasser, and a trove of Einstein letters is discovered hidden in Apartment 11D, Vincent must navigate a web of secrets stretching back decades.

Written for upper-intermediate (B2) English learners as comprehensible input, the story combines literary fiction with mystery, building drama, and a rich cast of characters. Each chapter builds vocabulary and comprehension through original narrative. Listen on Profe Radio, watch on ProfeTV, and discuss with other learners in our learning community.

Key Characters

• Vincent Russo — Superintendent; quiet, observant, methodical
• Antonio Russo — Vincent’s father; former super; custodian for 40+ years (deceased)
• Rebecca Weisman-Cohen — Niece and heir of Judith Weisman
• Judith Weisman — Deceased tenant of 11D; kept Einstein letters in secret cavity
• Detective Chen — NYPD detective (84th Precinct); professional ally
• Mister Blackwood — Retired judge, former custodian; explains the network
• Marcus Halberstam — Developer who tries to buy the building
• Dr. Heinrich Voss — Princeton emeritus; authenticates the Einstein letters
• Missus Adler — Elderly rooftop-garden committee chair; reveals key memories

Seasons

Explore the seasons of The Ashbury series:

Start Your Journey

Ready to solve the mystery and improve your English? Begin with The Master Key and follow Vincent from the service stair to the hidden cavities of the Ashbury. Listen on Profe Radio, watch on ProfeTV, and discuss with other learners in our learning community.