Well Dressed Lies: A Romance of Forbidden Love set in the Gilded Age

by Carrie Hayes

London, 1877.
Retired suffragists, VICTORIA WOODHULL and TENNESEE CLAFLIN
are shrewd, attractive, and looking for husbands. But their backgrounds are sketchy. No one knows they've been paid - some might say bribed - a fortune to leave New York. That they've been accused of intrigue, blackmail and worse are details best left alone. But when Victoria finds the love of her life, her prospects are threatened by a striking resemblance to a character in a story by Henry James.
Frantic to whitewash their past, she seeks Tennessee's help, unaware that Tennessee is in the midst of her own struggle, consumed by an illicit affair with a Duchess who is not only married, but is also mistress to the Prince of Wales.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 27, 2023

Reviews

[Nursebookie · Rating 4 out of 5]

TITLE: WELL DRESSED LIES
AUTHOR: Carrie Hayes
PUB DATE: 09.27.2023

One of my favorite quotes is “Well-behaved women rarely make history.” Don’t you agree?

WELL DRESSED LIES by Carrie Hayes is the perfect book to read this month when we celebrate disobedient and trail blazing women who paved the way to women’s equality.

Set in the Gilded Age, Hayes writes an intriguing and compelling story about notorious sisters Victoria and Tennessee, who set out to England in search of a husband, and through the point of view of Henry James. Based on real events from the past, and real-life historical figures, I found the story quite mesmerizing and wildly entertaining, as these women challenge the status quo, are so well ahead of their time unable to fit in a society who is not ready for them at all.

I highly recommend this historical fiction for those who love to read about the Victorian era, its society and scandals, strong female protagonists, with a bit of romance, and a sprinkling of paranormal.

[April B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A winding British journey for 2 American sisters!

I love the setting of 1877 London in this novel, all the descriptions of background throughout this book are painted beautifully in my mind with rich and well researched wording.

Victoria and Tennessee are American characters from New York that debuted from the author in Naked Truth.  I didn't read Naked Truth before reading Well Dressed Lies and I still loved getting to know the sisters, they really have a true relationship, love and support each other and also drive each a bit crazy as well!  I really enjoyed the setup of this novel, needing to escape to begin anew and hoping a nasty past stays buried.. to find Husbands!

The complexities the sisters develop with new relationships involving new characters as the story moves along adds more depth to the read.  I especially enjoyed the added bonus of some paranormal in the mix.  The paranormal edition isn't out of place, the author makes it feel like it is perfectly woven into the story.

If you enjoy historical fiction, a pinch of paranormal and sisters being unapologetic for being themselves.. this book is for you!

[karla_bookishlife · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. An intriguing story of forbidden romance in the Gilded era of 1877 London. Sisters Victoria and Tennessee have travelled from America to London in a wake of whispered speculation about their pasts. Each wishes to make an impression on favourable society with the view of securing a husband. Based on historical characters, the pair mix with a heedy set of characters, revelling in the free expression of their thoughts, of art, and of love. The sisters are unapologetically outspoken and themselves in a society that is still very much male orientation, where men hold the power, the money and the ability to act freely without consequences and where women must put on a fine act to be accepted. Those who fail to meet standards are subjected to the saddest fates. Tennessee is a figure of intrigued with her clairvoyant nature and ability to wow a room. Her cahracter is definitely the most hypnotic in the book.There are a lot of characters to keep track of, but luckily, there is a cast list to help. There are so many wonderful countries mentioned during travels in the book, and all are beautifully depicted. Henry James keeps many notes and scribbles as he plans his writings. These were the most difficult to keep track of for me, as they consisted of word lists and sporadic short notes. Perhaps giving us a snapshot into his thought process as he attempted to gather his novel. An enjoyable read for fans of historical fiction with strong female protagonists. #welldressedlies #carriehayes #HTPHPress #henryroipr #blackcoffeebooktours #historicalfiction

[Linda Zagon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carrie Hayes, the author of “Well Dressed Lies” writes a complicated and intriguing novel. The Genres for this book are Historical Fiction, Romance and Fiction. The timeline for this book is set in and around 1877 in America and England. The author vividly describes the scenery, landscape, and the colorful and dark characters. I appreciate that the author refers to the importance of art in literature. The author also mentions music and opera. The characters are complex, complicated, flawed and creative.

Virginia Woodhull and her sister Tennessee Claflin, retired suffragists have left New York with a questionable reputation. They have left for England to try to establish themselves with a good reputation, and possibly attract a husband. Society seems to be different in England, but the sisters seem to find other Americans and interesting people. Tennessee seems to be “clairvoyant” and has warnings of things that will occur. The writer Henry James is often at parties with the sisters and has written about a woman comparing her to one of the sisters.

Both sisters struggle with their own problems and conflicts. Their involvements have conflicts. I recommend that you follow their journey.

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a historical fiction book that takes place from 1877-1886. It’s told in the three points of view of Vicky Woodhull, Tennessee (Tennie) Claflin, and Henry James.

These are all real historical figures. Vicky and Tennie are sisters and in this book they have exiled themselves to London after a lot of things have happened to them in New York. Henry James, the author, is part of the story as he has written a fictional character named Nancy Headway which suspiciously closely resembles the sisters.

I have never heard of these sisters before I read this book and shame on me. I did some outside reading and these sisters were ground breakers during a time when women had no rights. They began as clairvoyants then opened a brokerage firm together and a newspaper. Vicky was the first woman to run for president in the US.

This book focuses on the time past that when they move to London. They just want lay low and fit into London society. With personalities like these gals, that’s hard to do. Henry James seems to always be wherever the sisters are with those keen observational skills that authors have.

I found this book interesting and the personalities of these characters shine in this book.

I also appreciate that the author gave us a character list at the beginning and an author’s note at the end with what was fiction vs nonfiction.

This book can be read on its own, but Carrie wrote another book (NAKED TRUTH OR EQUALITY, THE FORBIDDEN TRUTH) about these sisters which was published in 2023. That book tells the sisters’ story beginning in 1868.

[Jackie Pick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can two trailblazing sisters seamlessly transition from American scandal to aristocratic allure in Britain, trading notoriety for nobility, and redefine themselves amidst Victorian intrigue?

WELL, HELL, I DON'T KNOW.

At least I didn’t until I read Carrie Hayes’ gorgeous new historical novel Well Dressed Lies. And if you have any interest in historical fiction and/or brilliant writing, do dive headfirst into this book.

Well Dressed Lies is a stylish imagining of the lives of occasionally conflicted women caught between trappings and liberation.

The progressive views and bold public stances of sisters Victoria Woodhull and Tennessee Claflin were considered controversial, if not radical, in the late 19th century. We join the sisters in this encore to Naked Truth: Or Equality, The Forbidden Fruit: A Novel as they head to England after enduring public outrage and formidable obstacles in the United States. Can they just traipse from America to Britain's posh parlors without catching their crinoline on some hook or another? OF COURSE NOT, THAT WOULD BE A VERY BORING BOOK.

(You may want to read the first book, but it’s not necessary if you are patient and/or you have some knowledge of the Claflin sisters. But do read it — it’s delightful for its own sake and replete with Hayes’s dazzling bravura.)

Hayes is careful in her treatment of the sisters and other historical figures in the novel, fully imagining them without sentimentality. The sisters’ relationship pulsates at the core of the story, empowering them to defy society's disapproval and withstand the relentless scrutiny of casual onlookers.

Hayes has talent to spare and a story to tell. Her greatest gifts, among many, are her wordsmithing and her world-building. We are enrobed in the language and details of the time, which gently pinwheel us in time and place without airs or affectations, and we swing along with the moods of the era. Hayes never underestimates her readers' intelligence. She plays to our highest intelligence, but never once is arrogant or exclusive. Her prose flows like calligraphy, exuding beauty, elegance, and astonishing flourish. Hayes knows when and how much to withhold or reveal, adroitly keeping the book from veering into melodrama.

For anyone who’s ever tried to find love, who’s tried to reinvent themselves, who’s tried to be more than who the world wants them to be, this book is for you.

4.5 stars rounded up.

[Literature Lover · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Well dressed lies' penned by Carrie Hayes is a historical fiction, it also has paranormal and feminist elements to it.

The story is unique and exceptionally well penned. The characters are captivating especially as per me as I am feminist and love reading stories about rebellious and sassy women. Women who are not afraid to attempt mistakes, own it and learn from it.

The story follows Victoria and Tennessee who have come to London leaving United States to find a new and beautiful life filled with love. They have been basically shooed out of New York by their heir Cornelius Vanderbilt...Will they be successful in hiding their past and finding perfect partners??

P S - No spoilers

#booklover #bookreview #bookstgram #booknerd #bookshelf #bookworm #instabook #mustread #ayeshafmuskaanreview

[Lynelle Clark · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unraveling knots and constructing ideas about this book was a genuine puzzle. It took me about two chapters just to get into the idea of the book. Which is too long when you try to capture a reader’s attention.
“The conjugation of regular and irregular verbs in a Romance language goes a long way toward unraveling knots of anxiety in one’s mind. Remarkable, really, how one’s hesitations vanish when consumed with the construction necessary in composing ideas so that language functions not merely to communicate, but to perform. With style, as it were.”
The three different perspectives added to the reading challenge. I think if the author had written each chapter from a different point of view, it would have been an easier read. But, since it is a rapped change within one chapter, I could not enjoy the story as I would have liked.
I always love a good historical read with a woman finding her own voice in the mixture of plot and story. However, in Well dressed lies the plot was almost winded, and I was not sure what the purpose of the story was in the beginning.
The synopsis suggested about these two women, Victoria Woodhull and Tennessee Claflin, have left New York under mysterious circumstances and settled in London. But this was vague, almost hidden within the voyage to Londen as people communicated with them or avoided them all together. Though they are charming, clever, and wealthy, the secrets and scandals were not clear either.
“As a family, we rarely discussed the fallout, what would happen, how it would look, what people would choose to believe. By the time we moved to London, it almost didn’t matter. There were few people who were privy to the truth of our actual, everyday lives. Those who didn’t know us assumed we were two foolish women, who blushed at nothing, prepared to knock over anything that stood in our path. But that was false. We were not that way at all.”
When Victoria falls in love with a man who resembles a character from a Henry James story, she fears that her identity will be exposed. She asks Tennessee for help, but Tennessee is too busy with her own troubles. She is having a forbidden affair with a married Duchess who is also involved with the Prince of Wales.
Tennie, or Tennessee, was the more approachable, more relatable of the three. But still hard to understand. She was floating around, unsure most of the time, with no definite purpose. Waiting on a man is not a purpose.
The third person in this book is Henry James, a man whose role within the story was unclear for quite a few chapters. He was shrouded in secrets himself and found him an out-of-place sort of bloke. “WORDS: loquacious, garrulous, voluble, periphrastic, insidious, surreptitious IDEAS: a man bereft of ideas sets out to find the love letters of a long dead poet. She to whom the letters were written agrees to grant him access, upon one condition.”
This is how every section of his point of view began. A strange way of introducing an author, or was it an apt way of keeping the reader’s interest? I simply could not tell.
Overall, not a book that I would recommend. Thanks for the opportunity to read it though.

[Trish MacEnulty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carrie Hayes’ latest novel follows the adventures of American sisters Tennesee Claflin and Victoria Woodhull as they ensconce themselves in British society, having been shooed out of New York by the heir of Cornelius Vanderbilt. (This is her second novel about the sisters, after Naked Truth.) Why doesn’t Vanderbilt’s son want the sisters in town? Well, Tennessee, or Tennie, had a long ago affair with the old robber baron himself. There’s also the strange habit the sisters have of conjuring up spirits.

During the Atlantic crossing, Tennessee takes up with a former lover, James Bennett, owner of the New York Herald. This relationship interweaves with her life throughout the book and introduces her to royalty (both of the crown and of the arts) as well as to a tragic love affair with a duchess. No matter what issues they encounter, these two sisters — who are sometimes in loving connection and sometimes at war with each other — always manage to land on their feet. A third character in the story is Henry James! How Hayes manages to capture the great writer’s voice as he spies on the sisters and contemplates how to use them as models for his characters is a mystery, but the sections from his point of view are utterly convincing.

Much happens in the book which revolves around a mysterious painting among other things, but it is Haye’s exquisite writing that truly shines. Every single scene is rich with detail, (“a small drape muffled the rank smell outside”) and the three voices of the narrative have their own distinct way of perceiving the world. Some descriptions are dreamlike and hallucinatory. Others have the crisp discernment of a master storyteller. Quite frankly, there are two many examples of marvelous writing to choose just one. You’ll have to read the book yourself.

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can two sisters navigate the Ton’s rules and find themselves husbands without exposing their pasts? I thoroughly enjoyed Victoria and Tennessee in Carrie Hayes’ debut novel, Naked Truth. I had high expectations for Well Dressed Lies and it was brilliant, naturally. Carrie Hayes’ writing style makes for an intoxicating historical romance. The lush backdrop of London in 1877 blends with the characters and the descriptive narration. Well Dressed Lies is an unputdownable read.

Let’s start with the setting and descriptive narration. The setting is London, England in the late 19th century. Carrie Hayes creates a setting so lush and beautifully detailed, it’s a feast for the senses. She takes her time describing everything, all while keeping the historical accuracy front and center. I found myself absorbed in the story while reading. Stunning narration.

The characters are written with depth of feeling not often found in literature today. I connected with the sisters and many of the secondary characters. It was quite the reading experience to watch Victoria and Tennessee navigate through the Ton to find husbands.

If you’re like me and love historical romance, you’ll enjoy Well Dressed Lies. The realism vibe is layered throughout the tale. Highly recommended!

My Rating: 5+ stars

Reviewed by: Nancy

This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...

[Nerissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

In her compelling literary historical novel, "Well Dressed Lies," Carrie Hayes transports readers to the vibrant world of London in 1877-84, portraying American sisters Victoria Woodhull and Tennessee Claflin. Following their financial downfall in the wake of the 1873 economic collapse, the sisters navigate the complexities of London society, facing scandals, rebuffs, and the pursuit of reinvention. Hayes expertly crafts a narrative that delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, love, and societal challenges. The story unfolds with elegance, capturing the sisters' resilience amidst secrets, deceptions, and the class distinctions of the time. As Vicky and Tennie strive to carve new paths for themselves, they encounter a cast of equally captivating characters, from a manipulative Henry James to a fictional yet enthralling duchess. Hayes' writing is a masterpiece of intelligence and formality, seamlessly blending rich language with superb world-building. The pacing is impeccable, offering readers a mesmerizing journey through the vivid landscapes of 19th-century England. "Well Dressed Lies" is not only endlessly captivating but also a noteworthy contribution to literary historical and women's literature. Hayes skillfully combines education and entertainment, making this novel a stellar choice for book clubs and a must-read for those seeking beguiling passages and a deeper understanding of a fascinating historical period.

[Celeste Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story of provocative resilience when women were still struggling to be heard. I absolutely love historical fiction. Especially when it highlights strong women who persevere tight social norms to forge their own paths. The author combines fiction with facts to weave a fascinating story. It interlocks three characters seamlessly — sisters Victoria Woodhull and Tennesee Claflin and writer Henry James.

Victoria and Tennessee are forced to leave New York after their reputations suffer several blows. However, they don’t slink away to London. Tennessee, secures their financial future with hush money or perhaps more accurately, a bribe. But, moving to live between London’s superficial aristocracy doesn’t erase their past completely.

An article in a local paper almost ruins them when it depicts characters very similar to the lives they lived in New York. Victoria and Tennesee soon discover that the upper class live for appearances and that it only takes one scandal to ruin your place in their community. They must fight to be taken seriously and to be accepted.

Themes
Three themes popped out for me in this novel — opportunity, ambition, and desire.

[Cindi Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

1877 London. Two sisters far removed from their American homeland in the wake of scandal; they travel abroad to Long to start anew with an envelope full of cash to begin their new life.

A historical fiction blending in fact with fiction with romance and paranormal elements provides a reader with a story that intrigues and pulls you in to know more. In addition, the imagery Hayes provides is eloquent and vibrant.

There are three character POVs in the book that can be a bit confusing at first, especially if you’re not someone who is well versed in reading a book with more than one POV. Each character brings an element to the story that works beautifully together while still showcasing their distinct ways of viewing the world before them.

The two women look for husbands among the elite and while Victoria finds her husband, there is a threat that her identity for her American life will be revealed due to a similarity between the mans she loves and a character in written by Henry James. She looks to Tennessee for assistance who is preoccupied by her own illicit affairs with a married Duchess. That married Duchess is also entangled in an involvement with the Prince of Wales.

[Madeline Paige Fornes · Rating 4 out of 5]

The world building in this well-written, and well-researched historical fiction novel was easy to read. The beginning of the book was difficult to follow with all of the characters, even with the list at the beginning. I had to do a little external research to to understand some things, and that may be due to having not read the first book. The characters came across as a bit shallow in this book, and that's not due to poor writing, that's due to just how they acted. The author's writing is very well done, and I will absolutely be picking up the first book to see if that helps make this one read any smoother. Overall, I felt this was a wonderful fictional account of history. Reading well-researched historical fiction is a wonderful thing. The world building and attention to detail is really what sealed the deal on my rating.

*I received an ARC copy of this book via The Niche Reader and my review is my own.*

[Marianne Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story develops into social change, romance, and self-discovery themes, as the sisters navigate their new lives in London. Their journey is marked by challenges, including dealing with their controversial past and engaging in unexpected romantic entanglements. The narrative is further enriched by the appearance of well-known historical figures and the use of first-person narrative, which adds a personal and introspective dimension to the story.

Well Dressed Lies is a great read for those interested in historical fiction with strong female leads. The novel succeeds in blending factual history with imaginative storytelling, offering a multifaceted exploration of the lives of women in the 19th century. Carrie Hayes' work proves her ability to create an entertaining and thought-provoking story, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy high-quality, sophisticated historical novels with a touch of romance and intrigue.

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a most intriguing Gilded Age tale that blends real life, powerhouse women, historical fiction, romance, and even a famous author.

Victoria Woodhull and Tennesee Claflin have left New York for London, hoping to find husbands and leave their sordid pasts behind them.

With reputations such as those of these ladies, covering up their tracks will not be easy, especially with the likes of author Henry James following them around.

The writing is elegant and the narrative has that high society feel.
I loved that we were privy to three perspectives, so it felt like we had a seat at the table with these larger-than-life personalities. The story is a myriad of these bold and daring sisters’ dealings - from dabbling as clairvoyants to financial bribery, illicit affairs, and more.

𝐴 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑏𝑜𝑡ℎ ℎ𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑤𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛’𝑠 𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑓𝑎𝑛𝑠.


Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @carriehayes1964 for a spot on tour and a gifted book.

[booksy.tx.ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who doesn’t love some rebellious women? That’s exactly what drew me to this book! Tennessee (love the name) or Tennie and Victoria (Vicky) are unapologetic for who they are, and I love it. Especially for a time when it was much more looked down upon. Tennie was also fully aware of the bad choices she was making in certain relationships, and again, I love it. We always see women make excuses for the bad decisions they make instead of acknowledging that they know what they’re doing. Sometimes we make bad decisions simply because we want to. There was also a paranormal aspect that I was utterly and completely not expecting! If you like historical romance and scandalous women, you may enjoy this.

I received a copy of this book for my review.

[Vivian · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this very well researched book the author tells the story of American born sisters Victoria Woodhull and Tennessee Claflin, when they move to London, in a way of “escaping their previous life in the States”. While in London they meet with all sort of personages, including the Prince of Wales and the writer Henry James.
Even though the research of the book is extensive and the writing is very good, there were times that the book felt like two stories running in parallel but not belonging one to the other, those related to Henry James and the other of the sisters.
I learned a lot of how British society functioned at that time period no how women were treated then.

[kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this book sounded like it would be a great read and it didn't disappoint.

It is well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters who I loved. The story follows Victoria and Tennessee ( or Vicky and Tennie) who have come to London after leaving their life in the United States of America behind them and meet some colourful people along their journey such as the Prince of Wales.

I loved Vicky and Tennie, in fact they were probably my favourite thing about the book, they were rebellious and didn't suffer fools gladly, nor did they feel the need to apologise for their behaviour which now is so refreshing but would have been even more so in the time that the book is set in. Alongside the no apologising, they also don't make excuses for themselves. For example, one of the sisters always makes bad choices in love, she knows she does and she owns it, without making any excuses for her behaviour or trying to blame it on others. art this point these sisters are kind of heroes of mine.

I really enjoyed it

[Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is set in the 1800s following two sisters escaping New York to start new and redefine themselves in London. The sisters are progressive and bold, which makes them controversial and leads to many trial and tribulations they must face.
This author does a great job telling this story with such lavish language and detail in each scene. With a mix of historical fiction, a pinch of paranormal, forbidden love, and a great set of characters, this makes for a fantastic read
I have not read the first book Naked Truth: Or Equality, The Forbidden Fruit, but that did not keep me from being able to connect with Tennie and Vicky. However, I do want more of them and plan to read it!

[Lisa Albright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an intriguing novel set in the Victorian era with a cast of fascinating characters, historical figures, romance, and a bit of the paranormal. The sisters, Tennessee and Victoria, are strong, magnetic women ahead of their time, yearning for equality in a world dominated by men. The writing is beautiful and conjures images of the glamour of days gone by and also the challenges faced by women and those less fortunate. I especially enjoyed the culinary and travel descriptions and the feeling of being a captivated observer on their journeys and in their lifestyle.

I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah W · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love when books are based on real people, especially when it features women who pave the way for others. The life Victoria and Tennessee were trying to leave followed them to an extent. I loved the drama and small paranormal elements. While I liked the writing style, I had to slow down my reading speed a tad in order not to miss some details, but it was easy to picture the setting. I liked both sisters, but I enjoyed Tennie’s personality a smidge more. Her experience with the duchess and how it shaped her I found really interesting.

Thank you @carriehayes1964 and @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.

[Kristy Kloster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well Dressed Lies by Carrie Hayes is an intriguing historical romance set in the Gilded Age. This novel captures the essence of 1877 London through the lives of Victoria Woodhull and Tennessee Claflin. Hayes masterfully blends historical richness with a narrative that explores the complexities of love and societal expectations. The book stands out for its well-built characters and the themes of personal freedom and societal norms. It's a compelling read for anyone fascinated by historical narratives that also touch upon the timeless aspects of human relationships and ambitions.

[Tonya Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this novel of sisters Victoria Woodhull and Tennessee Claflin. All I knew of Woodhull was that she ran for president. I knew nothing of Tennessee. What an eye-opening pair these two were! The book starts when the sisters, fleeing rumors and scandal in the US, settle in England to “whitewash their past.” I really enjoyed watching them flounder at times, and learn to adapt in others (or not). This is a beautifully told story with a literary bent about remaking one’s self, the pursuit of ideals that are ahead of their time, persistence, hurt, and especially, love. Highly recommended.

[Amanda Felton · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this book is historical fiction and is so good. I really had no ideas going into this book what it would be like and I'm so glad I did it that way. Vickie and Tennie were my favorite part of this story. I loved them. They were rebellious and they didn't apologize for it.
Especially in the era they were in. I loved them. They to no crap and it was amazing. I wish I could know people like them cause they kinda epic and my hero's !!! Need to get this book!!!

[Abi C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vicky and Tennie are leaving gilded age NY behind for a new life in England. There are a lot of characters in this book and it can be difficult to follow at times. Vicky and Tennie are desperately trying to escape scandal in the US, while breaking into English society. I found out at the end there is a previous book covering their earlier life as suffragettes. I think I would have preferred to have read that first!

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

What drew me to this book was the gorgeous cover and my love for the UK. I would live in the UK if I could so any story connected to it is a book I want to read.

The book is written in period language from the late 1800’s and it took me a little while to get used to. The story captured my attention from the start. It is told in multiple POV and I loved the period details such as how they dressed and traveled.

[Stephanie Benoist · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well Dressed Lies is much more than a historical romance. It is a savvy novel that shifts between two continents, weaving the interlacing destinies of two sisters within the wealthy circles of the Gilded Age.

Carrie Hayes succeeds in a bold endeavor to combine real-life historical figures with ficitional characters. The transitions are seamless between the various narratives, peppered with lively descriptions and bright dialogue.

[Christy Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this cover and it set the tone for a unique historical fiction read. The strong willed sisters were such unconventional characters and I was engrossed in their story. Although the sisters stole the show I really enjoyed the additional eccentric characters as well. The writing was wonderfully descriptive and I could clearly picture the characters and settings. I appreciated the author’s note about the people on which the characters were based.

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well dressed lies is a fantastic tale of a lady called Tennesse who moves from the USA to America following a controversial relationship.
If you love period dramas this is the book for you as the characters enjoy parties in Manor House’s mixing with royalty. The characters are well written.
A very enjoyable book.

I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader