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Gilded Gotham Mystery #1
Deception by Gaslight
Glittering Gilded-Age New York holds its lavish charms--and a litany of deadly sins--as intrepid reporter Genevieve Stewart uncovers a trail of corruption and murder.
As a chill sets in on New York City in the winter of 1888, a jewel thief dubbed the "Robin Hood of the Lower East Side" has been stealing from the city's wealthiest and giving to the poor. Genevieve Stewart--a young woman whose family is part of Mrs. Astor's famed 400 but who has forged a life of her own as a reporter--decides to chase the story, but gets more than she bargained for: a murder victim sprawled in a dark alley in the dangerous Five Points neighborhood.
A handsome neighborhood tough comes to her rescue--but when she encounters the same man at a glamorous ball a few nights later, she realizes he's society scion Daniel McCaffrey. Could this be her Robin Hood? When two more murders rock the Knickerbocker world, it becomes apparent that something much more sinister is afoot than a few stolen diamond necklaces. Genevieve is determined to prove that Daniel is Robin Hood--but she's loath to believe he is a killer as well. From the glittering lights of Fifth Avenue to the sordid back alleys of Five Points, the truth is just one murder away.
As a chill sets in on New York City in the winter of 1888, a jewel thief dubbed the "Robin Hood of the Lower East Side" has been stealing from the city's wealthiest and giving to the poor. Genevieve Stewart--a young woman whose family is part of Mrs. Astor's famed 400 but who has forged a life of her own as a reporter--decides to chase the story, but gets more than she bargained for: a murder victim sprawled in a dark alley in the dangerous Five Points neighborhood.
A handsome neighborhood tough comes to her rescue--but when she encounters the same man at a glamorous ball a few nights later, she realizes he's society scion Daniel McCaffrey. Could this be her Robin Hood? When two more murders rock the Knickerbocker world, it becomes apparent that something much more sinister is afoot than a few stolen diamond necklaces. Genevieve is determined to prove that Daniel is Robin Hood--but she's loath to believe he is a killer as well. From the glittering lights of Fifth Avenue to the sordid back alleys of Five Points, the truth is just one murder away.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published October 6, 2020
About the author
Kate Belli
6 books250 followersKate Belli writes thriller and historical mystery. She has lived all over, from Florence, Italy, to Brooklyn, New York, to the Deep South, to a cottage next to Monet’s gardens in Northern France. Today she lives and works in Central Pennsylvania with her husband and son. When not writing, Kate works as a professor or a yogi, depending on the day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 356 reviews
March 22, 2020
This is an ARC review - Release date is scheduled for 6 Oct 2020 - Deception By Gaslight is a wonderfully written novel with characters worth rooting for. I honestly couldn’t put the book down. Genevieve and Daniel make a great sleuthing pair. I loved the setting of the story, taking place in New York City in the late 1800s. The author’s attention to detail is amazing and made me feel like I was actually in the ballroom or the back alleys of the city.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a dash of romance added in
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a dash of romance added in
August 13, 2020
One of my favourite things - a mystery set in late 19th century New York when the rich were very rich and the poor were very poor, and the police were definitely not to be trusted.
Then introduce one very beautiful young lady from one of the top families, who wants to be a newspaper reporter instead of a wife, and a good looking, very rich, young man with a dubious background. Add a mysterious Robin Hood like thief, stealing from the rich to give to the poor, and we have the makings of an excellent story.
I enjoyed it all very much. I thought the two main characters, Genevieve and Daniel, made a delightful team, and I look forward very much to seeing their future exploits.
My thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Then introduce one very beautiful young lady from one of the top families, who wants to be a newspaper reporter instead of a wife, and a good looking, very rich, young man with a dubious background. Add a mysterious Robin Hood like thief, stealing from the rich to give to the poor, and we have the makings of an excellent story.
I enjoyed it all very much. I thought the two main characters, Genevieve and Daniel, made a delightful team, and I look forward very much to seeing their future exploits.
My thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 10, 2020
10/09/2020:
This book is out in the world for y’all to enjoy! New York’s Gilded Age + unconventional protagonist + cute flirtationship + mystery that throws MC/love interest together = such a fun read.
This book hit a surprising sweet spot: it really worked for me.
Genevieve Stewart is exactly the kind of ambitious, unapologetic protagonist I love reading about. Twenty-six years old and unmarried, she's employed as a journalist for The New York Globe. But her assignments leave her frustrated and wanting: she covers flower shows and Best Baby contests, while front-page stories are handed to her male coworkers. This is why she must uncover the identity of Robin Hood, the jewel thief hell-bent on humiliating New York’s wealthiest families. The thief who’s now turned to murder.
Enigmatic millionaire Daniel McCaffrey seemingly appeared out of thin air when he inherited a vast fortune as a teenager—and the secrets surrounding this turn of events have intrigued high society for years. When he crosses paths with Genevieve, they reluctantly enter a tentative partnership to solve the mystery of Robin Hood before the bodies pile up even further.
◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️
I find that the more I consume fiction set in New York’s Gilded Age, the more I’m enamoured with it. Currently the extent of my (paltry) knowledge of this time period comes from The Alienist and Lydia Kang’s Opium and Absinthe, and Deception by Gaslight was infinitely less macabre yet also a tad more salacious than both.
There’s a budding flirtationship between Genevieve and Daniel—leading to some seriously entertaining banter—that turns into a fake relationship without instalove (praise the heavens!). There’s a costume ball, to which Genevieve’s best friend shows up wearing a !!sexy!! Little Mermaid gown that’s slit up to the knee. Genevieve reminisces about when she almost lost her virginity, several characters are former gangbangers, and jokes are made at the expense of Daniel’s too-tight breeches.
On the other hand, the mysteries in this book weren’t particularly complex or sensational. I might even go so far as to say they were unsurprising; when Daniel’s backstory is finally revealed, it satiated my curiosity but wasn’t outside the realm of what I’d been expecting. Same goes for Robin Hood’s unmasking, and the unraveling of the murders.
But the unconventional character dynamics really held my interest. Genevieve’s family is old money but so eccentric—her mother is an ACTIVIST (in 1888!!) who’s constantly getting arrested for protesting for women’s rights. Her father engages in legal battles to protect endangered birds. It’s this eccentricity that led Genevieve’s ex-fiancé to jilt her six years ago, and this dimension of Genevieve—the girl who doesn’t quite fit in—was really interesting to read.
Daniel is similarly multifaceted; his passion for housing/tenement reform in Lower Manhattan’s poorest neighbourhoods was honestly a pretty noble cause to champion. Meanwhile, Genevieve’s sunny best friend Callie is impoverished and in desperate search of husband, while the pallid Esmie is in a similar situation, husband-wise, but turns out to be a surprisingly cunning wallflower. Each character challenges, in their own way, the meritocratic and bigoted beliefs of New York City’s upper echelon.
In all, an uncomplicated read that touches on key social issues in New York’s Gilded Age through the voices of non-clichéd characters; I’m definitely going to keep an eye out for the next book in this series.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book hit a surprising sweet spot: it really worked for me.
What was she willing to risk to unmask Robin Hood and break the story of the century?
Everything.
Genevieve Stewart is exactly the kind of ambitious, unapologetic protagonist I love reading about. Twenty-six years old and unmarried, she's employed as a journalist for The New York Globe. But her assignments leave her frustrated and wanting: she covers flower shows and Best Baby contests, while front-page stories are handed to her male coworkers. This is why she must uncover the identity of Robin Hood, the jewel thief hell-bent on humiliating New York’s wealthiest families. The thief who’s now turned to murder.
All his ghosts, it seemed, were coming home to roost, leaving him partially flayed and aching. He just hoped he could corral them before a certain reporter exposed him to the bone.
Enigmatic millionaire Daniel McCaffrey seemingly appeared out of thin air when he inherited a vast fortune as a teenager—and the secrets surrounding this turn of events have intrigued high society for years. When he crosses paths with Genevieve, they reluctantly enter a tentative partnership to solve the mystery of Robin Hood before the bodies pile up even further.
◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️◻️
I find that the more I consume fiction set in New York’s Gilded Age, the more I’m enamoured with it. Currently the extent of my (paltry) knowledge of this time period comes from The Alienist and Lydia Kang’s Opium and Absinthe, and Deception by Gaslight was infinitely less macabre yet also a tad more salacious than both.
There’s a budding flirtationship between Genevieve and Daniel—leading to some seriously entertaining banter—that turns into a fake relationship without instalove (praise the heavens!). There’s a costume ball, to which Genevieve’s best friend shows up wearing a !!sexy!! Little Mermaid gown that’s slit up to the knee. Genevieve reminisces about when she almost lost her virginity, several characters are former gangbangers, and jokes are made at the expense of Daniel’s too-tight breeches.
On the other hand, the mysteries in this book weren’t particularly complex or sensational. I might even go so far as to say they were unsurprising; when Daniel’s backstory is finally revealed, it satiated my curiosity but wasn’t outside the realm of what I’d been expecting. Same goes for Robin Hood’s unmasking, and the unraveling of the murders.
But the unconventional character dynamics really held my interest. Genevieve’s family is old money but so eccentric—her mother is an ACTIVIST (in 1888!!) who’s constantly getting arrested for protesting for women’s rights. Her father engages in legal battles to protect endangered birds. It’s this eccentricity that led Genevieve’s ex-fiancé to jilt her six years ago, and this dimension of Genevieve—the girl who doesn’t quite fit in—was really interesting to read.
Daniel is similarly multifaceted; his passion for housing/tenement reform in Lower Manhattan’s poorest neighbourhoods was honestly a pretty noble cause to champion. Meanwhile, Genevieve’s sunny best friend Callie is impoverished and in desperate search of husband, while the pallid Esmie is in a similar situation, husband-wise, but turns out to be a surprisingly cunning wallflower. Each character challenges, in their own way, the meritocratic and bigoted beliefs of New York City’s upper echelon.
In all, an uncomplicated read that touches on key social issues in New York’s Gilded Age through the voices of non-clichéd characters; I’m definitely going to keep an eye out for the next book in this series.
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
October 7, 2020
Genevieve Stewart was a reporter at the Globe in New York in 1888 where a devious thief dubbed Robin Hood was stealing from the high society’s wealthy and giving to those less privileged. She was determined to uncover the perpetrator, and as such was following a group of men to interview them. But the narrow, dead end alley was suddenly making her wish she’d been a little more sensible. The body she spied on the ground horrified her; the danger she was in terrified her. But the help of a stranger – a good looking one – saw her escape with her life.
The high society ball that Genevieve attended was one she attended under sufferance. But it was her spotting of the stranger who had rescued her, but who looked completely different, which had her thoughts immediately tying the two together. Was she in the same room as Robin Hood? Genevieve was determined to find out. When it seemed the thief had escalated to murder, her shock came with confusion. What was going on? Someone out there didn’t want the truth to come out – there was far too much at stake…
Deception by Gaslight is the 1st in A Gilded Gotham Mystery series by Kate Belli, set in New York in the late 1800s and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The pace was electric, the characters – from nefarious gangs to high class society women – were excellently portrayed. I found Genevieve and Daniel to be tough and independent, both being hard to trust because of events from their pasts. A great start to a new series that I’ll be happy to continue with. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my diital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The high society ball that Genevieve attended was one she attended under sufferance. But it was her spotting of the stranger who had rescued her, but who looked completely different, which had her thoughts immediately tying the two together. Was she in the same room as Robin Hood? Genevieve was determined to find out. When it seemed the thief had escalated to murder, her shock came with confusion. What was going on? Someone out there didn’t want the truth to come out – there was far too much at stake…
Deception by Gaslight is the 1st in A Gilded Gotham Mystery series by Kate Belli, set in New York in the late 1800s and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The pace was electric, the characters – from nefarious gangs to high class society women – were excellently portrayed. I found Genevieve and Daniel to be tough and independent, both being hard to trust because of events from their pasts. A great start to a new series that I’ll be happy to continue with. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my diital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2020
It took me a little bit of time to settle into this book, but I soon found myself quite enjoying it. Set in New York in the late 1880's, Genevieve is not doing what is expected of her, but trying to advance her career as a journalist and identify the thief who purportedly steals from the rich to give to the poor.
She soon finds herself in a dangerous situation and dealing with the handsome and mysterious Danny McCaffery. What exactly is he trying to hide?
This book neatly brings together, historical fiction, romance and mystery, A charming first in a series, I look forward to reading more. Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
She soon finds herself in a dangerous situation and dealing with the handsome and mysterious Danny McCaffery. What exactly is he trying to hide?
This book neatly brings together, historical fiction, romance and mystery, A charming first in a series, I look forward to reading more. Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2020
On her quest to find out who is stealing jewelry from the richest in New York City, journalist Genevieve Stewart is saved from a dangerous situation by millionaire Daniel McCaffrey who she suspects is the jewelry thief Robin Hood. When murders start happening, Genevieve and Daniel have to use their unique talents and contacts to find who the criminal is.
Deception by Gaslight is the exiting first installment in the new series A Gilded Gotham Mystery written by Kate Belli, published by Crooked Lane Books. The story is set in New York City 1888 where we follow journalist Genevieve Stewart. She works on getting information about famous jewel thief Robin Hood who is targeting the very richest. In her struggle to get information she sets her life in danger, and millionaire Daniel McCaffrey saves her. Genevieve is shocked to meet him again at an Astor 400 ball, and realizes he is not the street thug she thought but she suspects him of being Robin Hood. Jewelry keeps being stolen, and soon murders start happening too. Genevieve and Daniel use their unique contacts and talents to dig up information and as they come closer to the truth, danger to Genevieve’s life increases.
Main character Journalist Genevieve Stewart has suffered a great loss in her life, but is determined to work for a living. She seems a caring woman who treats people well and is a person who anyone would be proud to have as a friend. She is my absolute favorite of this story.
Supporting character millionaire and philanthropist Daniel McCaffrey comes from a humble background. He has learned to live between two worlds and makes this work in his philanthropic work. I found him an interesting character who sometimes struggles with his identity.
The characters felt like they could have been my friends in real life as they felt so well crafted and relatable.
This story was beautifully written and reminded me of Sarah M. Eden’s writing. The plot felt different as it contained an enjoyable and exiting collection of elements starting off with the mystery of Robin Hood’s identity. It had me turning pages into the wee hours of the night to get answers, and I was thoroughly surprised who Robin Hood turned out to be.
My favorite part of the story was the amusing way the relationship between Genevieve and Daniel developed. Starting with mutual distrust, they came to trust each other explicitly and rely on each other’s help as the story progressed. Least favorite part was when Genevieve found herself in a dangerous part of Town not able to escape threatening men.
Thank you to publisher Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for this eARC which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.
Conclusion: Deception by Gaslight is the exiting start of the very promising new series which will captivate readers of cozy mysteries. It contains a collection of well crafted mystery elements and relatable characters that will stay in your memory for a long time.
I eagerly await the next installment in the series or any other release from this author. Similar authors to explore might be Dianne Freeman or Andrea Penrose.
Rating: 5 stars / 5
Main reason: interesting and entertaining plot, relatable characters, beautiful writing
Deception by Gaslight is the exiting first installment in the new series A Gilded Gotham Mystery written by Kate Belli, published by Crooked Lane Books. The story is set in New York City 1888 where we follow journalist Genevieve Stewart. She works on getting information about famous jewel thief Robin Hood who is targeting the very richest. In her struggle to get information she sets her life in danger, and millionaire Daniel McCaffrey saves her. Genevieve is shocked to meet him again at an Astor 400 ball, and realizes he is not the street thug she thought but she suspects him of being Robin Hood. Jewelry keeps being stolen, and soon murders start happening too. Genevieve and Daniel use their unique contacts and talents to dig up information and as they come closer to the truth, danger to Genevieve’s life increases.
Main character Journalist Genevieve Stewart has suffered a great loss in her life, but is determined to work for a living. She seems a caring woman who treats people well and is a person who anyone would be proud to have as a friend. She is my absolute favorite of this story.
Supporting character millionaire and philanthropist Daniel McCaffrey comes from a humble background. He has learned to live between two worlds and makes this work in his philanthropic work. I found him an interesting character who sometimes struggles with his identity.
The characters felt like they could have been my friends in real life as they felt so well crafted and relatable.
This story was beautifully written and reminded me of Sarah M. Eden’s writing. The plot felt different as it contained an enjoyable and exiting collection of elements starting off with the mystery of Robin Hood’s identity. It had me turning pages into the wee hours of the night to get answers, and I was thoroughly surprised who Robin Hood turned out to be.
My favorite part of the story was the amusing way the relationship between Genevieve and Daniel developed. Starting with mutual distrust, they came to trust each other explicitly and rely on each other’s help as the story progressed. Least favorite part was when Genevieve found herself in a dangerous part of Town not able to escape threatening men.
Thank you to publisher Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for this eARC which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.
Conclusion: Deception by Gaslight is the exiting start of the very promising new series which will captivate readers of cozy mysteries. It contains a collection of well crafted mystery elements and relatable characters that will stay in your memory for a long time.
I eagerly await the next installment in the series or any other release from this author. Similar authors to explore might be Dianne Freeman or Andrea Penrose.
Rating: 5 stars / 5
Main reason: interesting and entertaining plot, relatable characters, beautiful writing
November 14, 2020
Not terribly original.
Set in NYC 1888.
Young lady, Genevieve Stewart, from one of the super-rich NY families is determined to become independent and gets a job as a journalist.
A rash of jewel thefts are taking place across the city and the thief is dubbed “Robin Hood”.
Daniel McCaffrey is the mystery man having entered into ‘society’ by way of becoming heir to a wealthy NY gentleman via somewhat dubious means. Naturally he appears the most obvious suspect to be "Robin Hood".
Genevieve is determined to find the thief, write the story, and have her first ‘scoop’ for the newspaper.
Romance ensues. Other than that nothing much happens.
Set in NYC 1888.
Young lady, Genevieve Stewart, from one of the super-rich NY families is determined to become independent and gets a job as a journalist.
A rash of jewel thefts are taking place across the city and the thief is dubbed “Robin Hood”.
Daniel McCaffrey is the mystery man having entered into ‘society’ by way of becoming heir to a wealthy NY gentleman via somewhat dubious means. Naturally he appears the most obvious suspect to be "Robin Hood".
Genevieve is determined to find the thief, write the story, and have her first ‘scoop’ for the newspaper.
Romance ensues. Other than that nothing much happens.
September 20, 2020
I couldn't wait to dive into this book. A mystery set in New York City in the late 1800s. I thought it was well done period piece taking place in high society. There seems to be a real life Robin Hood among the riches, but what starts as somewhat innocent thieving leadsto murder.
The main characters are Genevieve, a reporter, and Daniel, who reminded me a far less elusive Mr Gatsby. Genevieve sets off to prove Daniel is Robin Hood, but can't seem to believe he's a killer as well.
This book is part mystery, part drama and almost a romance. The drama about the period and the families was well written. I would have liked it better if there was more romance. The mystery portion seemed to lack a bit of oomph.
Overall, I'm giving it 4 stars because I really did feel like I was in the late 1800s and if I knew the mystery was more "light" (think Clue), I would have enjoyed it more, but I had higher expectations, hoping to be wowed by the mystery.
Thank you Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The main characters are Genevieve, a reporter, and Daniel, who reminded me a far less elusive Mr Gatsby. Genevieve sets off to prove Daniel is Robin Hood, but can't seem to believe he's a killer as well.
This book is part mystery, part drama and almost a romance. The drama about the period and the families was well written. I would have liked it better if there was more romance. The mystery portion seemed to lack a bit of oomph.
Overall, I'm giving it 4 stars because I really did feel like I was in the late 1800s and if I knew the mystery was more "light" (think Clue), I would have enjoyed it more, but I had higher expectations, hoping to be wowed by the mystery.
Thank you Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2021
The gilded age of 1888 New York is ruled by the Astor 400--the wealthiest families who influence the social and political set up of the city. Genevieve Stewart, a journalist whose family is part of the famed 400, is on a hunt to discover the identity of a jewel thief dubbed Robin Hood who is robbing from these families and helping the poor. In her chase she discovers a dead body in the dangerous Five Points neighbourhood. Saved by the handsome and mysterious Daniel McCaffrey when her life is threatened whom she meets again at an Astor 400 ball, she wonders if Daniel is the elusive Robin Hood and is determined to prove so. However, when a few more murders take place of prominent members of the 400 society, Genevieve suspects a much more sinister plot is afoot than just mere robbery and although still doubtful about Daniel, teams up with him to get to the bottom of it.
This is the first book in the Gilded Gotham Mystery series and judging by this book looks to be a promising series. It's well written and I already love both the protagonists. There is a hint of a sub plot too dealing with Daniel's lost siblings and I hope it is developed further as it looks interesting.
I had received an e-Arc of the book from the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Kate Belli via NetGalley.
This is the first book in the Gilded Gotham Mystery series and judging by this book looks to be a promising series. It's well written and I already love both the protagonists. There is a hint of a sub plot too dealing with Daniel's lost siblings and I hope it is developed further as it looks interesting.
I had received an e-Arc of the book from the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Kate Belli via NetGalley.
March 28, 2022
This is a first-time author, and I enjoyed the book. The characters were fun and interesting. The plot meandered a bit, but all the clues brought about a successful ending. I plan to continue with the series as I think the author has potential to grow the series. I rate the book 3.75*
April 17, 2021
Over the summer I fell in love with the Gaslight Mysteries series so this book caught my eye. Another Gilded Age mystery sounded right up my alley.
Genevieve is a wealthy young woman who also wants to be a journalist. She's determined to break a big story and she's focused on finding "Robin Hood," - a mysterious figure connected to some burglaries. After the burglaries he sends letters to the newspaper outing all the bad behaviors of the burgled.
In her explorations she comes across Daniel McAffrey, another wealthy figure. He inherited a large fortune and no one knows why or how he fell into such luck. Genevieve has her suspicions about Daniel and teams up with him to learn some secrets and possibly find a good story.
I had so many issues with this novel. I definitely won't be reading anymore. I'll list a few of the most annoying things. Please note that there will be spoilers below, so stop reading now if you don't want to see any!
1. Genevieve
We met Genevieve in one of the dumbest situations ever. I love strong, courageous females, but I hate when authors have women doing stupid things and pretend that's them being brave and independent. We meet Genevieve as she is following three sketchy men into a dark alley, in a bad part of town because she heard them mention "Robin Hood." Because, obviously, nobody could possibly be just causally chatting about the latest news sensation on the street.
I love kickass female heroines, but all Genevieve has to fight with is an indignant, self-righteous attitude, and the entitlement that comes with believing you’re special because you're rich. Ew. Ew. Ew. So I already hated Genevieve from the get go.
She continually acted ridiculous and stupid throughout the book. I hated how she was always getting in a tiff because of some supposed offense when it seemed to me she was always the one acting snotty and annoying.
2. Genevieve and the Gun
Sticking to that same theme, the end was sooooo stupid on a number of levels. Genevieve waiting in the dark with her gun and then shooting as the shadow came in. She sees Daniel and keeps threatening him with the gun even though she KNOWS he's not dangerous. I'm sorry, it was so ridiculous. And suddenly Genevieve is this master shooter? That makes a lot of sense for one of the Astor 400. (But of course, Genevieve does have a very liberal, quirky family. Can I say trope??)
3. Danny's Past
The whole book they act like there is this huge mystery surrounding Daniel's inheritance. All we know is that some wealthy old geezer gave Daniel all his money and it has something to do with Daniel's sister. Hmmmm....what could be this big, big mystery....an old man, a young woman.....what could it possibly be? My guess is you've already figured it out from this one very obvious clue that they tell you in the beginning. The author made such a big deal out of it that I thought I must be wrong and it wouldn't be that obvious, but when the truth was finally REVEALED...it was exactly as trite as imagined.
4. The "Romance" (If we can call it that.)
There was no reason at all for Genevieve and Daniel to fall in love. She was an annoying journalist out for a big break at Daniel's expense. Daniel was possibly a murderer who frequented brothels, but sure let's fall "in love." I just didn't buy their "connection."
5. The Mystery and End
The mystery was about some kind of bond thing that I'll be honest, I didn't fully understand. Daniel "roaring" outside the pub where Genevieve had been kidnapped, was too ridiculous to countenance. And then the whole mad dash across the roof? Oh brother.
I definitely will not be reading anymore of this series.
Genevieve is a wealthy young woman who also wants to be a journalist. She's determined to break a big story and she's focused on finding "Robin Hood," - a mysterious figure connected to some burglaries. After the burglaries he sends letters to the newspaper outing all the bad behaviors of the burgled.
In her explorations she comes across Daniel McAffrey, another wealthy figure. He inherited a large fortune and no one knows why or how he fell into such luck. Genevieve has her suspicions about Daniel and teams up with him to learn some secrets and possibly find a good story.
I had so many issues with this novel. I definitely won't be reading anymore. I'll list a few of the most annoying things. Please note that there will be spoilers below, so stop reading now if you don't want to see any!
1. Genevieve
We met Genevieve in one of the dumbest situations ever. I love strong, courageous females, but I hate when authors have women doing stupid things and pretend that's them being brave and independent. We meet Genevieve as she is following three sketchy men into a dark alley, in a bad part of town because she heard them mention "Robin Hood." Because, obviously, nobody could possibly be just causally chatting about the latest news sensation on the street.
I love kickass female heroines, but all Genevieve has to fight with is an indignant, self-righteous attitude, and the entitlement that comes with believing you’re special because you're rich. Ew. Ew. Ew. So I already hated Genevieve from the get go.
She continually acted ridiculous and stupid throughout the book. I hated how she was always getting in a tiff because of some supposed offense when it seemed to me she was always the one acting snotty and annoying.
2. Genevieve and the Gun
Sticking to that same theme, the end was sooooo stupid on a number of levels. Genevieve waiting in the dark with her gun and then shooting as the shadow came in. She sees Daniel and keeps threatening him with the gun even though she KNOWS he's not dangerous. I'm sorry, it was so ridiculous. And suddenly Genevieve is this master shooter? That makes a lot of sense for one of the Astor 400. (But of course, Genevieve does have a very liberal, quirky family. Can I say trope??)
3. Danny's Past
The whole book they act like there is this huge mystery surrounding Daniel's inheritance. All we know is that some wealthy old geezer gave Daniel all his money and it has something to do with Daniel's sister. Hmmmm....what could be this big, big mystery....an old man, a young woman.....what could it possibly be? My guess is you've already figured it out from this one very obvious clue that they tell you in the beginning. The author made such a big deal out of it that I thought I must be wrong and it wouldn't be that obvious, but when the truth was finally REVEALED...it was exactly as trite as imagined.
4. The "Romance" (If we can call it that.)
There was no reason at all for Genevieve and Daniel to fall in love. She was an annoying journalist out for a big break at Daniel's expense. Daniel was possibly a murderer who frequented brothels, but sure let's fall "in love." I just didn't buy their "connection."
5. The Mystery and End
The mystery was about some kind of bond thing that I'll be honest, I didn't fully understand. Daniel "roaring" outside the pub where Genevieve had been kidnapped, was too ridiculous to countenance. And then the whole mad dash across the roof? Oh brother.
I definitely will not be reading anymore of this series.
June 18, 2023
Entertaining start to a new historical fiction series. Our setting this time is late 1880s New York City, specifically Manhatten. The story ranges from the slums and tenements to elite society ballrooms.
I liked our spunky heroine, newspaperwoman Genevieve Stewart, who is part of the upper 400 world. She's determined to be taken seriously at the newspaper she works for; she wants to cover crime stories, not 'Best Baby' contests. Crime stories such as the current to-do over the 'Robin Hood of the Lower East Side' who robs from the very rich and gives to various charities assisting the poor.
I liked our enigmatic nominal hero, Daniel McCaffery. He has a mysterious background and Genevieve believes he knows the identity of 'Robin Hood'. He seems to be as at home in the rough neighborhood of Five Points as he is in the elite neighborhoods.
They become reluctant partners when murders begin to coincide with 'Robin Hood's' thefts. Has the mystery man turned killer or is someone taking advantage of the thefts to mislead the police?
They mystery gets quite twisty, bringing in corrupt police, shady business dealings, and high society rivalries.
I enjoyed watching the ups and downs in the developing relationship between Genevieve and Daniel. I also liked the subplot about Daniel's friend Rupert (penniless Earl) and society debutante (and wealthy heiress) Esmie Bradley.
I liked this enough that I already have the second book (Betrayal on the Bowery) near the top of my TBR stack. With 4 books in the series thus far it looks like I have some good reading ahead.
I liked our spunky heroine, newspaperwoman Genevieve Stewart, who is part of the upper 400 world. She's determined to be taken seriously at the newspaper she works for; she wants to cover crime stories, not 'Best Baby' contests. Crime stories such as the current to-do over the 'Robin Hood of the Lower East Side' who robs from the very rich and gives to various charities assisting the poor.
I liked our enigmatic nominal hero, Daniel McCaffery. He has a mysterious background and Genevieve believes he knows the identity of 'Robin Hood'. He seems to be as at home in the rough neighborhood of Five Points as he is in the elite neighborhoods.
They become reluctant partners when murders begin to coincide with 'Robin Hood's' thefts. Has the mystery man turned killer or is someone taking advantage of the thefts to mislead the police?
They mystery gets quite twisty, bringing in corrupt police, shady business dealings, and high society rivalries.
I enjoyed watching the ups and downs in the developing relationship between Genevieve and Daniel. I also liked the subplot about Daniel's friend Rupert (penniless Earl) and society debutante (and wealthy heiress) Esmie Bradley.
I liked this enough that I already have the second book (Betrayal on the Bowery) near the top of my TBR stack. With 4 books in the series thus far it looks like I have some good reading ahead.
January 20, 2022
Another series gets added to my “must read” list. After reading so many books sent in regency or Edwardian times in England, it was refreshing to read this book, set in New York in 1888.
From the first scene, where heroine Genevieve meets hero Daniel in an alley, I was hooked. Genevieve is from an eccentric Knickerbocker family and after being dumped three days before her society wedding, she convinced her family to let her try to work as a reporter. Her newspaper assignments are mostly lifestyle pieces, but she is eager to tackle more meaty subjects like the case of a Robin Hood character that is robbing upper class families.
Daniel is new money, having grown up in the lower class, but elevated by an inheritance (the reasons for the inheritance are secret at first).
The two characters have great chemistry and work well together. Genevieve is brave and determined to use her resources (access to decades of newspaper research, knowledge of government archives) to chase down Robin Hood and to figure out whether some recent murders are related. Daniel might know something about Robin Hood and about the murders. He doesn’t trust Genevieve at first, but slowly warms to her.
Genevieve’s two girl friends and a couple people at the newspaper are great secondary characters, as is Daniel’s best friend Rupert and his staff, all people from his old neighborhood who he hired after inheriting his fortune. I’m sure we’ll see most of them in future books.
The pace of this book was great - it was hard to put down. I’m thankful I have book 2 in my possession already!
From the first scene, where heroine Genevieve meets hero Daniel in an alley, I was hooked. Genevieve is from an eccentric Knickerbocker family and after being dumped three days before her society wedding, she convinced her family to let her try to work as a reporter. Her newspaper assignments are mostly lifestyle pieces, but she is eager to tackle more meaty subjects like the case of a Robin Hood character that is robbing upper class families.
Daniel is new money, having grown up in the lower class, but elevated by an inheritance (the reasons for the inheritance are secret at first).
The two characters have great chemistry and work well together. Genevieve is brave and determined to use her resources (access to decades of newspaper research, knowledge of government archives) to chase down Robin Hood and to figure out whether some recent murders are related. Daniel might know something about Robin Hood and about the murders. He doesn’t trust Genevieve at first, but slowly warms to her.
Genevieve’s two girl friends and a couple people at the newspaper are great secondary characters, as is Daniel’s best friend Rupert and his staff, all people from his old neighborhood who he hired after inheriting his fortune. I’m sure we’ll see most of them in future books.
The pace of this book was great - it was hard to put down. I’m thankful I have book 2 in my possession already!
April 11, 2020
After putting in a long day of work and being shut up duing COVID-19 , this was what I really needed to provide for some rest and relaxation. I thought the story was very well-written and a nice change to see a woman's position as more than just becoming married and wife. The mystery was good and I thought the twists and turns were done very well. Not much into mysteries but this one captivated my attention on finding out who was robbing the wealthy and "who dunnit" on the murder aspect.
Adored Genevieve's character and determination to finding out who harmed her friends and showing her bluestocking side as a journalist. I always love a good romance and liked the attraction between her and Daniel. This was a very entertaining and enjoyable read for this reader by first time author, Kate Belli.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions herein are my own.
Adored Genevieve's character and determination to finding out who harmed her friends and showing her bluestocking side as a journalist. I always love a good romance and liked the attraction between her and Daniel. This was a very entertaining and enjoyable read for this reader by first time author, Kate Belli.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions herein are my own.
November 1, 2021
I liked this! I liked the setting and the time period and the characters. I even thought the final conflict between them made sense.
November 30, 2020
There’s nothing “very” wrong with this book except it was excruciatingly boring. I cannot even express how much of a chore reading this felt like.
The mystery was related to housing reform. Yeah. It is precisely as boring as it sounds.
The main characters have no personal relation to the “mystery” and the murders except the female MC is a journalist and wants to write a story. Which, unfortunately, means there are no real stakes. Also, the male MC is this supposedly dark, brooding, and mysterious man, who 5 pages after we meet him is no longer dark, brooding and mysterious. The MCs also fall in insta-love/attraction, which honestly, did nothing to improve the story.
Overall, the whole story was clinical, it invoked absolutely no feelings in me except that all-encompassing boredom I already mentioned.
The mystery was related to housing reform. Yeah. It is precisely as boring as it sounds.
The main characters have no personal relation to the “mystery” and the murders except the female MC is a journalist and wants to write a story. Which, unfortunately, means there are no real stakes. Also, the male MC is this supposedly dark, brooding, and mysterious man, who 5 pages after we meet him is no longer dark, brooding and mysterious. The MCs also fall in insta-love/attraction, which honestly, did nothing to improve the story.
Overall, the whole story was clinical, it invoked absolutely no feelings in me except that all-encompassing boredom I already mentioned.
June 23, 2020
I'm sorry, but this book is not for me. I really wanted to like it since I love this era, but I just couldn't get into it. The writing was not my style. This is only my preference and I'm sure other people would enjoy this style of writing.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 5, 2022
It’s hard for me to find a book that really ticks all my favorite boxes: historical mystery with intriguing protagonists and a good slow burn romance. This one does.
Genevieve Stewart is a determined young woman whose eccentric family is part of the Astor 400, but who is also trying to make her own way as a newspaper reporter. While investigating a string of high end robberies, she meets Daniel McCaffrey, the mysterious heir to an enormous fortune who straddles the worlds of the opulent rich and the crime and poverty stricken Five Points. After dancing around one another due to mutual distrust, they begin working together to unmask a killer.
I found the characters to be very realistic and engaging, with interesting backstories and well developed personalities. I loved the push and pull of their interactions and the way they both struggle to reconcile their feelings for the other one. I also found the mystery to be engaging as well, which sometimes takes a back seat in this type of story. The pacing was great, without a lot of unnecessary narrative dialogue.
I generally dislike cliffhangers, but this story is itself wrapped up, and I find myself anxiously awaiting the next installment!
Genevieve Stewart is a determined young woman whose eccentric family is part of the Astor 400, but who is also trying to make her own way as a newspaper reporter. While investigating a string of high end robberies, she meets Daniel McCaffrey, the mysterious heir to an enormous fortune who straddles the worlds of the opulent rich and the crime and poverty stricken Five Points. After dancing around one another due to mutual distrust, they begin working together to unmask a killer.
I found the characters to be very realistic and engaging, with interesting backstories and well developed personalities. I loved the push and pull of their interactions and the way they both struggle to reconcile their feelings for the other one. I also found the mystery to be engaging as well, which sometimes takes a back seat in this type of story. The pacing was great, without a lot of unnecessary narrative dialogue.
I generally dislike cliffhangers, but this story is itself wrapped up, and I find myself anxiously awaiting the next installment!
March 15, 2020
I haven't read many historical mysteries lately but the synopsis of this one sounded intriguing. This time period is fascinating and Kate is an interesting character. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author. I received an e-book from NetGalley in return for an unbiased review.
April 2, 2022
This book was an absolute delight from beginning to end. Genevieve a beautiful young woman from a wealthy family. Daniel a man who came about is money in a mysterious way. Genevieve and Daniel find themselves thrown together as they investigate a serious of thefts.
I really cannot wait to see these two in action again in the next instalment of the Gilded Gotham Mystery Series.
I really cannot wait to see these two in action again in the next instalment of the Gilded Gotham Mystery Series.
April 5, 2020
Originally I wondered if the gaslight in the title was a reference to the actual gas-light of that era, or was a story about being gaslighted. Either way, I knew it was a story that I would be intrigued by, not to mention it having a terrific cover.
Set in the times of the Astor 400, which was a fun fact to learn about and look up on the Internet, Genevieve Stewart is a young journalist attempting to track down information about the famed Robin Hood – a jewel thief who has been stealing from the wealthy. During her hunt for information she runs across a handsome Daniel McCaffrey and he immediately becomes a potential suspect or a potential romantic interest. Inbetween times of journalist pursuit she also is a welcome addition to the high society parties and balls since her family is also included in the Astor 400 list. As Genevieve continues tracking down her story, she finds that additional deaths may be related, but what is worse is that Daniel, whom she has started getting close to, may be the culprit.
There are books that you enjoy, but slow read and then there are books that you can’t read fast enough. This was the latter because it was just so likeable. The writing was quick and flowing and there always seemed to be something to keep me interested – be it the investigative work and the danger it brings, the balls, or the potential romance. There truly was never a dull moment. I did, however, wonder about some of the choices Genevieve makes concerning her safety. There are times in the book where you want to go “No! That doesn’t sound like a smart idea considering what has been going on,” but it never kept me from enjoying the overall story. The very, very end also felt a little Hollywood-ish and while I was emotionally satisfied, I also knew that logically it probably would not have happened that way.
Recommended for those who enjoy the 1880 American Gilded Age era society stories, and light reads with fast-paced action and story that includes a dash of romance.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for the advanced reader copy and opportunity to provide an honest review.
Set in the times of the Astor 400, which was a fun fact to learn about and look up on the Internet, Genevieve Stewart is a young journalist attempting to track down information about the famed Robin Hood – a jewel thief who has been stealing from the wealthy. During her hunt for information she runs across a handsome Daniel McCaffrey and he immediately becomes a potential suspect or a potential romantic interest. Inbetween times of journalist pursuit she also is a welcome addition to the high society parties and balls since her family is also included in the Astor 400 list. As Genevieve continues tracking down her story, she finds that additional deaths may be related, but what is worse is that Daniel, whom she has started getting close to, may be the culprit.
There are books that you enjoy, but slow read and then there are books that you can’t read fast enough. This was the latter because it was just so likeable. The writing was quick and flowing and there always seemed to be something to keep me interested – be it the investigative work and the danger it brings, the balls, or the potential romance. There truly was never a dull moment. I did, however, wonder about some of the choices Genevieve makes concerning her safety. There are times in the book where you want to go “No! That doesn’t sound like a smart idea considering what has been going on,” but it never kept me from enjoying the overall story. The very, very end also felt a little Hollywood-ish and while I was emotionally satisfied, I also knew that logically it probably would not have happened that way.
Recommended for those who enjoy the 1880 American Gilded Age era society stories, and light reads with fast-paced action and story that includes a dash of romance.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for the advanced reader copy and opportunity to provide an honest review.
March 10, 2020
Genevieve Stewart is from a prominent but eccentric family. After a broken engagement she wants to prove herself as a reporter. She begins to investigate a thief styling himself as “Robin Hood” for the NYC Globe newspaper.
Through her investigations she meets Daniel McCaffrey. He is the mysterious heir to the Van Joost fortune with a questionable background who just happens to be at all the crime scenes.
But “Robin Hood” goes beyond simply robbing from the rich and giving to the poor. Dead bodies begin to appear with the robberies and Genevieve can help but suspect Daniel.
The attraction and secrets between Genevieve and Daniel begin to mount. Can they trust each other before they become targets themselves?
An impressive debut novel. Kate Belli has created so many characters to work with for subsequent books for a series. I became invested in the main characters. As well as in Daniel’s friend Rupert and Genevieve’s friends Callie and Eliza. The backdrop of NYC corruption in the late 1800’s is compelling too.
P.S. Beautiful cover
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC
Through her investigations she meets Daniel McCaffrey. He is the mysterious heir to the Van Joost fortune with a questionable background who just happens to be at all the crime scenes.
But “Robin Hood” goes beyond simply robbing from the rich and giving to the poor. Dead bodies begin to appear with the robberies and Genevieve can help but suspect Daniel.
The attraction and secrets between Genevieve and Daniel begin to mount. Can they trust each other before they become targets themselves?
An impressive debut novel. Kate Belli has created so many characters to work with for subsequent books for a series. I became invested in the main characters. As well as in Daniel’s friend Rupert and Genevieve’s friends Callie and Eliza. The backdrop of NYC corruption in the late 1800’s is compelling too.
P.S. Beautiful cover
Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC
October 2, 2020
Deception by Gaslight
A Gilded Gotham Mystery
Kate Bellli
https://www.facebook.com/Kate-Belli-A...
Release date 10/06/2020
Publisher Crooked Lane Books
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Glittering Gilded-Age New York holds its lavish charms--and a litany of deadly sins--as intrepid reporter Genevieve Stewart uncovers a trail of corruption and murder.
As a chill sets in on New York City in the winter of 1888, a jewel thief dubbed the "Robin Hood of the Lower East Side" has been stealing from the city's wealthiest and giving to the poor. Genevieve Stewart--a young woman whose family is part of Mrs. Astor's famed 400 but who has forged a life of her own as a reporter--decides to chase the story, but gets more than she bargained for: a murder victim sprawled in a dark alley in the dangerous Five Points neighborhood.
A handsome neighborhood tough comes to her rescue--but when she encounters the same man at a glamorous ball a few nights later, she realizes he's society scion Daniel McCaffrey. Could this be her Robin Hood? When two more murders rock the Knickerbocker world, it becomes apparent that something much more sinister is afoot than a few stolen diamond necklaces. Genevieve is determined to prove that Daniel is Robin Hood--but she's loath to believe he is a killer as well. From the glittering lights of Fifth Avenue to the sordid back alleys of Five Points, the truth is just one murder away.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When danger will test their faith in one another ...
I am slowly rediscovering reading mystery/thriller tales, younger I devoured all the Agatha Christie then Lilian Jackson Brown (love cats) then Anne Perry which combined everything I love, amateur sleuths, historical setting and romance.
And this debut novel has everything to keep me glued to its pages. Intriguing characters with a past, a burgeoning romance plus danger and a series of crime to unravel.
On top, it is constructed like a romance, offering the two heroes a voice when in the many other mysteries I have read, only the lead character get his point of view transcribed.
The period added too to my delights while reading, I love to learn about the Gilded-Age, this time with a step in the past and another in the future.
Genevieve is privileged, not only by birth. Her family does not fit in any classical standard, a mother fighting for women’s right, a father advocating on the verge of eradication species, a n explorer for a brother and an architect for the other. This is not the usual for the upper crust.
They embrace their differences, thus when she decided to follow her path by becoming a reporter, they supported her.
She turned from Astor 400 debutante to newspapers columnist. While it was her therapy after her failed season, she desperately wants to prove herself thus tracking the sensation of the moment, the modern Robin Hood breaking in the house of the privileged.
Daniel is a walking conundrum, a veil between the lowly and the lofty. From the beginning, it is easy to see he is not who he appears. He wears a mask on all occasions. His past is no true surprise when he reveals it as many hints were spread. He is a man torn between an oath he made to himself and a desire to free himself from it for a less lonely future. With his own roundabout ways, he tries to improve the life of those he shares a past with as he understands their pleas.
They are supported by a bunch of as much unconventional friends, Rupert the destitute earl, Callie also facing the same predicament, Eliza the artist, Esmie the no so demure wallflower....
The mystery part is quite devious, even if the villains were easy to figure out. Not all the villains get their right comeuppance, but their scheming ways are halted.
As first in a series, Daniel and Genevieve’s relationship is left unresolved, theirs is no insta love, sure there is an attraction but it is also full of doubts and their lack of trust nearly tore them apart, so we are left with a thread of hope to keep us on edge until the next in this series.
A 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for this entrancing story, I am now left with the need to know what will come next.
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
A Gilded Gotham Mystery
Kate Bellli
https://www.facebook.com/Kate-Belli-A...
Release date 10/06/2020
Publisher Crooked Lane Books
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Glittering Gilded-Age New York holds its lavish charms--and a litany of deadly sins--as intrepid reporter Genevieve Stewart uncovers a trail of corruption and murder.
As a chill sets in on New York City in the winter of 1888, a jewel thief dubbed the "Robin Hood of the Lower East Side" has been stealing from the city's wealthiest and giving to the poor. Genevieve Stewart--a young woman whose family is part of Mrs. Astor's famed 400 but who has forged a life of her own as a reporter--decides to chase the story, but gets more than she bargained for: a murder victim sprawled in a dark alley in the dangerous Five Points neighborhood.
A handsome neighborhood tough comes to her rescue--but when she encounters the same man at a glamorous ball a few nights later, she realizes he's society scion Daniel McCaffrey. Could this be her Robin Hood? When two more murders rock the Knickerbocker world, it becomes apparent that something much more sinister is afoot than a few stolen diamond necklaces. Genevieve is determined to prove that Daniel is Robin Hood--but she's loath to believe he is a killer as well. From the glittering lights of Fifth Avenue to the sordid back alleys of Five Points, the truth is just one murder away.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When danger will test their faith in one another ...
I am slowly rediscovering reading mystery/thriller tales, younger I devoured all the Agatha Christie then Lilian Jackson Brown (love cats) then Anne Perry which combined everything I love, amateur sleuths, historical setting and romance.
And this debut novel has everything to keep me glued to its pages. Intriguing characters with a past, a burgeoning romance plus danger and a series of crime to unravel.
On top, it is constructed like a romance, offering the two heroes a voice when in the many other mysteries I have read, only the lead character get his point of view transcribed.
The period added too to my delights while reading, I love to learn about the Gilded-Age, this time with a step in the past and another in the future.
Genevieve is privileged, not only by birth. Her family does not fit in any classical standard, a mother fighting for women’s right, a father advocating on the verge of eradication species, a n explorer for a brother and an architect for the other. This is not the usual for the upper crust.
They embrace their differences, thus when she decided to follow her path by becoming a reporter, they supported her.
She turned from Astor 400 debutante to newspapers columnist. While it was her therapy after her failed season, she desperately wants to prove herself thus tracking the sensation of the moment, the modern Robin Hood breaking in the house of the privileged.
Daniel is a walking conundrum, a veil between the lowly and the lofty. From the beginning, it is easy to see he is not who he appears. He wears a mask on all occasions. His past is no true surprise when he reveals it as many hints were spread. He is a man torn between an oath he made to himself and a desire to free himself from it for a less lonely future. With his own roundabout ways, he tries to improve the life of those he shares a past with as he understands their pleas.
They are supported by a bunch of as much unconventional friends, Rupert the destitute earl, Callie also facing the same predicament, Eliza the artist, Esmie the no so demure wallflower....
The mystery part is quite devious, even if the villains were easy to figure out. Not all the villains get their right comeuppance, but their scheming ways are halted.
As first in a series, Daniel and Genevieve’s relationship is left unresolved, theirs is no insta love, sure there is an attraction but it is also full of doubts and their lack of trust nearly tore them apart, so we are left with a thread of hope to keep us on edge until the next in this series.
A 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for this entrancing story, I am now left with the need to know what will come next.
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
October 20, 2021
This dragged a little bit for me in places, but I am very interested in the cast of characters and ship, so I will be getting my hands on book two asap.
October 10, 2020
Deception by Gaslight by Kate Belli
Gilded Gotham Mystery #1
Mixed feelings on this one. I enjoyed the beginning…great introduction…then enjoyed the next scene, too, but for some reason I was not hooked enough to read every word. That said, I did skim quickly because I wanted to find out what would happen. I had the sense of watching a movie set in the period while also remembering books I read long ago that were of that era. Why I wasn’t invested in the characters might have had to do with Genevieve, in her mid-twenties, being at times incautious and actually making dangerous life-threatening decisions while chasing a story.
The writing flowed and descriptions appealed to all five senses giving a good feel for the time, clothing, etc. and I felt that I was there in some scenes. In some ways the story read like a penny dreadful and in others…not quite.
There were murders, thefts, news stories to follow, social issues relevant to the times, newsworthy happenings, stories given to men that Genevieve wanted, and a bit of romance. I am not sure how I feel about this book and though I didn’t read word for word might give book two a chance to see what Genevieve and Daniel get up to and whether or not their relationship will develop.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane for the ARC – This is my honest review.
2 for my interest in the story
3 it is in the middle
4 Stars as I believe it has merit and will appeal to more readers than it doesn’t appeal to
Gilded Gotham Mystery #1
Mixed feelings on this one. I enjoyed the beginning…great introduction…then enjoyed the next scene, too, but for some reason I was not hooked enough to read every word. That said, I did skim quickly because I wanted to find out what would happen. I had the sense of watching a movie set in the period while also remembering books I read long ago that were of that era. Why I wasn’t invested in the characters might have had to do with Genevieve, in her mid-twenties, being at times incautious and actually making dangerous life-threatening decisions while chasing a story.
The writing flowed and descriptions appealed to all five senses giving a good feel for the time, clothing, etc. and I felt that I was there in some scenes. In some ways the story read like a penny dreadful and in others…not quite.
There were murders, thefts, news stories to follow, social issues relevant to the times, newsworthy happenings, stories given to men that Genevieve wanted, and a bit of romance. I am not sure how I feel about this book and though I didn’t read word for word might give book two a chance to see what Genevieve and Daniel get up to and whether or not their relationship will develop.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane for the ARC – This is my honest review.
2 for my interest in the story
3 it is in the middle
4 Stars as I believe it has merit and will appeal to more readers than it doesn’t appeal to
August 12, 2023
Deception by Gaslight is the first book in the Gilded Gotham Mystery series and I am so jazzed about both the story and the series! Genevieve Stewart is a woman who has known her fair share of humiliation and instead of letting it ruin her, it only increased her resolve to make her own way in the world as a budding reporter. I adored her gumption! It was her unwavering desire to be the reporter who broke the big story that brought Genevieve face to face with the elusive Daniel McCaffrey. Together, these characters would throw themselves head long into danger – each for their own personal reasons – but would find that in the end what they really created was a strong partnership. They made a fabulous team and it is them, working together, that I am excited about seeing more of. This whodunit was filled with all the right kinds of tension and suspense that came together perfectly to deliver one satisfying mystery!
This review is based on a complimentary book I received from NetGalley. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
This review is based on a complimentary book I received from NetGalley. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
May 7, 2021
This was a really fun introduction to the series. I liked Genevieve and Daniel a lot as characters, and I'm interested to see how their relationship develops from here, given the clear set up for the book two mystery in the epilogue. I'm also hoping we get more from Genevieve's friends and hopefully both brothers, as well as the search for Daniel's younger siblings. There were a lot of loose ends on those fronts that I assume will be addressed in future books.
One note about the cover: I really like this cover! It was one of the things that drew me to the book initially. Especially because that is Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, a place I am extremely familiar with, as I have spent a lot of time there during Covid times. No part of this book takes place at Bethesda Terrace, or in Central Park at all. The characters live downtown, in Washington Square Park and Grammercy Park (which makes sense for Gilded Age NYC, anyway!!), and the story takes place basically there and in Five Points. Sorry to be extremely me about this and I realize I am probably the only person out there who cares, but I couldn't help but notice. It's still a very nice cover, and I would like it even more if it was the cover of a book that had at least one (1) scene in Central Park.
One note about the cover: I really like this cover! It was one of the things that drew me to the book initially. Especially because that is Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, a place I am extremely familiar with, as I have spent a lot of time there during Covid times. No part of this book takes place at Bethesda Terrace, or in Central Park at all. The characters live downtown, in Washington Square Park and Grammercy Park (which makes sense for Gilded Age NYC, anyway!!), and the story takes place basically there and in Five Points. Sorry to be extremely me about this and I realize I am probably the only person out there who cares, but I couldn't help but notice. It's still a very nice cover, and I would like it even more if it was the cover of a book that had at least one (1) scene in Central Park.
October 27, 2020
For a debut novel, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this novel.
Daniel and Genevieve are very loveable characters. They both have a little bit of mystery surrounding themselves but they're so interesting. I feel like this is very similar to Sherry Thomas's novels, the Lady Sherlock ones.
There's a wee bit of romance building but nothing comes of it except me being mad that they didn't kiss. 😂
Daniel and Genevieve are very loveable characters. They both have a little bit of mystery surrounding themselves but they're so interesting. I feel like this is very similar to Sherry Thomas's novels, the Lady Sherlock ones.
There's a wee bit of romance building but nothing comes of it except me being mad that they didn't kiss. 😂
November 9, 2022
3.5 stars.
Thank you, Netgalley and the publisher, for giving me this to read early!
This book is a historical fiction mystery, set in the late 1880s in New York. Guinevere is a journalist and she's determined to uncover who this Robin Hood - who steals from the rich and apparently gives to the poor - really is. While on this chase, however, she stumbles onto something much bigger.
I really liked the writing. It was smooth and clear. The setting was done very well, and I loved the descriptions we got about the city and society and surroundings in general. They were to the point and never overdone. There was no excessive description of uninteresting things to the plot, which I really appreciated.
G was overall a really nice character, and Daniel was amazing. Their friends, too, and G's family all have distinct personalities and I enjoyed getting to know them all.
Now, I generally tend to dislike stories about journalists, whether the format is a book or a movie or a tv-show, because their behaviour is normally distasteful at best and downright terrible at worst. I find it difficult to sympathise with characters in this profession, so I tend to just avoid stories that include them altogether. G is a journalist, so I was a little wary going into this and worried it would turn me off the story. Remarkably, however, G didn't annoy me that much. There were a couple of occasions where I felt she acted in a way that any decent person would be ashamed of and she should rightfully be given an earful about, but on these occasions the dual perspective we get throughout the book saves these scenes just in time - whether it's Daniel being a voice of reason or another scene interrupting the current one, I'm either relieved or distracted.
**Mind you, this is just a personal preference for me. Like I say, journalists are characters in stories that I struggle to sympathise with and if I don't sympathise with a character they tend to just annoy me. Luckily G is made to be a moral journalist.
And although I survived her journalistic tendencies relatively unscathed there are a few moments where I admit to being annoyed at G for being dumb in general. She has some of these "yes someone tried to hurt me but I can take care of myself so I don't need your help" moments, you see. Sigh Woman, I get it, you're tough and you're brave. But when someone has tried to hurt you and you have a friend who can help, who you say you trust, then you let them help. It's called common sense, plus it's smart to use the resources you have at your disposal. If you have a partner who can help, then you let them. If you have a partner that can do something you should not do because it could endanger your life but not theirs, then you let them do it. It does not harm your independence to accept help when you need it.
Anyway.
Moving on to the plot! The mysteries (for there are more than one going on at the same time) are intriguing and there is rarely a proper pause in action. So much is going on! And just when you want something more to happen, it does. Theft? Murder? A past coming back to bite? You get a little of everything here. There are so many balls in the air, and it's so satisfying when they start landing in their place one after the other! I really hardly noticed I was turning pages.
I felt some things could have been done a little better. G's suspicion but it's surrounded by enough other mysteries and developments to be masked pretty well. It's not bothersome by any means, it just doesn't make G seem as professional as I think she's meant to be.
All in all, I think this is a solid 3.5ish star book. I really enjoyed the characters, the setting, the mystery.. I think if you like historical fiction and mysteries then you're going to like this book for sure! And it seems this is to be the first in a series? So if that's the case I'm sure I'll be reading the next instalment as well.
Thank you, Netgalley and the publisher, for giving me this to read early!
This book is a historical fiction mystery, set in the late 1880s in New York. Guinevere is a journalist and she's determined to uncover who this Robin Hood - who steals from the rich and apparently gives to the poor - really is. While on this chase, however, she stumbles onto something much bigger.
I really liked the writing. It was smooth and clear. The setting was done very well, and I loved the descriptions we got about the city and society and surroundings in general. They were to the point and never overdone. There was no excessive description of uninteresting things to the plot, which I really appreciated.
G was overall a really nice character, and Daniel was amazing. Their friends, too, and G's family all have distinct personalities and I enjoyed getting to know them all.
Now, I generally tend to dislike stories about journalists, whether the format is a book or a movie or a tv-show, because their behaviour is normally distasteful at best and downright terrible at worst. I find it difficult to sympathise with characters in this profession, so I tend to just avoid stories that include them altogether. G is a journalist, so I was a little wary going into this and worried it would turn me off the story. Remarkably, however, G didn't annoy me that much. There were a couple of occasions where I felt she acted in a way that any decent person would be ashamed of and she should rightfully be given an earful about, but on these occasions the dual perspective we get throughout the book saves these scenes just in time - whether it's Daniel being a voice of reason or another scene interrupting the current one, I'm either relieved or distracted.
**Mind you, this is just a personal preference for me. Like I say, journalists are characters in stories that I struggle to sympathise with and if I don't sympathise with a character they tend to just annoy me. Luckily G is made to be a moral journalist.
And although I survived her journalistic tendencies relatively unscathed there are a few moments where I admit to being annoyed at G for being dumb in general. She has some of these "yes someone tried to hurt me but I can take care of myself so I don't need your help" moments, you see. Sigh Woman, I get it, you're tough and you're brave. But when someone has tried to hurt you and you have a friend who can help, who you say you trust, then you let them help. It's called common sense, plus it's smart to use the resources you have at your disposal. If you have a partner who can help, then you let them. If you have a partner that can do something you should not do because it could endanger your life but not theirs, then you let them do it. It does not harm your independence to accept help when you need it.
Anyway.
Moving on to the plot! The mysteries (for there are more than one going on at the same time) are intriguing and there is rarely a proper pause in action. So much is going on! And just when you want something more to happen, it does. Theft? Murder? A past coming back to bite? You get a little of everything here. There are so many balls in the air, and it's so satisfying when they start landing in their place one after the other! I really hardly noticed I was turning pages.
I felt some things could have been done a little better. G's suspicion but it's surrounded by enough other mysteries and developments to be masked pretty well. It's not bothersome by any means, it just doesn't make G seem as professional as I think she's meant to be.
All in all, I think this is a solid 3.5ish star book. I really enjoyed the characters, the setting, the mystery.. I think if you like historical fiction and mysteries then you're going to like this book for sure! And it seems this is to be the first in a series? So if that's the case I'm sure I'll be reading the next instalment as well.
October 7, 2020
Deception by Gaslight is the first book in the Gilded Gotham Mystery series by Kate Belli. And what a fun start it was! If the following installments are as exciting as this one, I hope this series will run for a long time to come.
In 1888 Gilded Age New York, a jewel thief is hitting the homes of the Astor 400 (also know as "rich people"). He's writing to newspapers claiming to be stealing from the rich and giving to the poor, so he's being called Robin Hood. Genevieve Stewart, a young woman from a peculiar family that's part of the Astor 400, is bucking tradition and making her own way as a newspaper reporter. While following the Robin Hood story she roams the dark dangerous streets and sees a murder victim. When it appears she is going to be accosted by men who were following her, she is saved by a handsome neighborhood tough. A few days later at a party, she meets wealthy Daniel McCaffrey...who just happens to be the tough who helped her in the dangerous Five Points neighborhood! Genevieve believes Daniel may be Robin Hood. However, when there are two more murders, she can't believe that Daniel killed anyone. The two become partners in the search for the truth.
This was truly an entertaining story. The mystery concerning street gangs, thefts, murders, dirty cops and poor housing conditions was exciting, but the characters really made the book. Genevieve grew up in a wealthy family but wasn't content to spend her time flitting from party to party. She wanted to be a real reporter and was getting tired of being given stories about flower shows or best babies. She was hoping the Robin Hood story would be her big break. Daniel was a total mystery, even more interesting than the murders here. He grew up poor but inherited a fortune. Why? What happened to his sister Maggie? There was just so much to learn about him! Genevieve and Daniel were very drawn to each other, and I hope to see their relationship grow. The supporting characters were all well drawn, especially Daniel's best friend Rupert and Tommy Meade, gang boss. The story was complete and didn't end on a cliffhanger, but the epilogue did! Ms. Belli, please hurry up so I can find out what happened!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed were entirely my own.
In 1888 Gilded Age New York, a jewel thief is hitting the homes of the Astor 400 (also know as "rich people"). He's writing to newspapers claiming to be stealing from the rich and giving to the poor, so he's being called Robin Hood. Genevieve Stewart, a young woman from a peculiar family that's part of the Astor 400, is bucking tradition and making her own way as a newspaper reporter. While following the Robin Hood story she roams the dark dangerous streets and sees a murder victim. When it appears she is going to be accosted by men who were following her, she is saved by a handsome neighborhood tough. A few days later at a party, she meets wealthy Daniel McCaffrey...who just happens to be the tough who helped her in the dangerous Five Points neighborhood! Genevieve believes Daniel may be Robin Hood. However, when there are two more murders, she can't believe that Daniel killed anyone. The two become partners in the search for the truth.
This was truly an entertaining story. The mystery concerning street gangs, thefts, murders, dirty cops and poor housing conditions was exciting, but the characters really made the book. Genevieve grew up in a wealthy family but wasn't content to spend her time flitting from party to party. She wanted to be a real reporter and was getting tired of being given stories about flower shows or best babies. She was hoping the Robin Hood story would be her big break. Daniel was a total mystery, even more interesting than the murders here. He grew up poor but inherited a fortune. Why? What happened to his sister Maggie? There was just so much to learn about him! Genevieve and Daniel were very drawn to each other, and I hope to see their relationship grow. The supporting characters were all well drawn, especially Daniel's best friend Rupert and Tommy Meade, gang boss. The story was complete and didn't end on a cliffhanger, but the epilogue did! Ms. Belli, please hurry up so I can find out what happened!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed were entirely my own.
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