The Girl from Greenwich Street: An Intriguing Historical Novel Based on the True Story of Hamilton, Burr, and America's First Murder Trial

by Lauren Willig

Based on the true story of a famous trial, this novel is Law and 1800, as Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr investigate the shocking murder of a young woman who everyone—and no one—seemed to know.

At the start of a new century, a shocking murder transfixes Manhattan, forcing bitter rivals Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr to work together to save a man from the gallows. 

Just before Christmas 1799, Elma Sands slips out of her Quaker cousin’s boarding house—and doesn’t come home. Has she eloped? Run away? No one knows—until her body appears in the Manhattan Well.

Her family insists they know who killed her. Handbills circulate around the city accusing a carpenter named Levi Weeks of seducing and murdering Elma. 

But privately, quietly, Levi’s wealthy brother calls in a special favor….

Aaron Burr’s legal practice can’t finance both his expensive tastes and his ambition to win the 1800 New York elections. To defend Levi Weeks is a double a hefty fee plus a chance to grab headlines.

Alexander Hamilton has his own political aspirations; he isn’t going to let Burr monopolize the public’s attention. If Burr is defending Levi Weeks, then Hamilton will too. As the trial and the election draw near, Burr and Hamilton race against time to save a man’s life—and destroy each other.

Part murder mystery, part thriller, part true crime, The Girl From Greenwich Street revisits a dark corner of history—with a surprising twist ending that reveals the true story of the woman at the center of the tale.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Mystery, Historical, Fiction, Audiobook, True Crime, Adult

352 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 4, 2025

About the author

Lauren Willig is the New York Times bestselling author of nineteen works of historical fiction. Her books have been translated into over a dozen languages, awarded the RITA, Booksellers Best and Golden Leaf awards, and chosen for the American Library Association's annual list of the best genre fiction. After graduating from Yale University, she embarked on a PhD in History at Harvard before leaving academia to acquire a JD at Harvard Law while authoring her "Pink Carnation" series of Napoleonic-set novels. She lives in New York City, where she now writes full time.

Reviews

[Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up for a historical fiction book based upon an actual murder trial in New York city in 1800. The author read the trial transcript and the dialogue during the trial is taken from the transcript. In her author note at the end of the book, she explains that she had to reconstruct parts of the trial, since the transcript did not identify which of the 3 defendant lawyers asked which questions. She also explains that Hamilton and Burr were political rivals, and that this trial was a means of publicizing their legal and oratorical abilities. While most Americans are familiar with Burr and Hamilton, only students of NYS history would recognize the name Cadwallader Colden, the prosecutor. Colden had a distinguished career, serving as NYC mayor, NYS Senator and president of the New York Manumission Society.
Some other characters:
Levi Weeks, accused murderer:
Emma Sands, murder victim
Brockholst Livingston, 3rd defendant lawyer, in addition to Hamilton and Burr
I would recommend this book to historical fiction fans and legal mystery fans. It did drag a little in the beginning.
Thank You William Morrow Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#TheGirlFromGreenwichStreet #NetGalley

Pub Date Mar 04 2025

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-written, meticulously researched, historical fiction novel based on New York City's first murder trial. It is fast paced, entertaining, and informative. I truly enjoyed the portrayal of the historical figures and Ms. Willig's presentation of the case. The epilogue and author's notes are enlightening and are truly appreciated. I listened to the audio book, and the narrator, Ms. Jane Oppenheimer, has a lovely voice and does an outstanding job voicing the characters.

[Mallory · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was interesting but I was expecting a little more of a mystery. It is interesting to see how far we have come in the science of murder trials. This one was well written but still somehow difficult for me to get into it. I liked that at the end they share some of the history and what happened with some of the key characters. Elma Sands heads out one evening, her family believes to get married, and instead she is found dead and dumped into the well. While there is a suspect quickly identified (and judged by the whole town) the trial takes place over several days which was unheard of for the time.

[Amina · Rating 3 out of 5]

✰ 2.75 stars ✰

​​​​​“​​​Think ere you speak, for words once flown, / Once uttered, are no more your own.​​”

​ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ It's strange that I enjoyed reading the Historical Note more so than the actual book; which is odd, considering the facts are what the fiction was derived from. I felt kinda sad afterwards; I expected a little more closure, a bit more justice for The Girl from Greenwich Street. A simple Google search would have better prepared for the final outcome, but I guess I read on in the hopes of getting some redemption; alas, even for poor Elma Sands there was none.​ ❤️‍🩹

​ “Truth,” said Aaron delicately, “is the daughter of time, not the product of the courts.​​”

​ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ I don't know if all the extraneous views were necessary; to be honest, I was more interested in ​seeing the lawyers at work rather than getting the various takes from all those involved or directly affected by Elma's unexplained murder​, which evidently became 'a case that touches on a man’s honor, it isn’t​ enough to create a doubt; one must leave no doubt.​' 🤔 It makes sense then that the most interesting moment for me was the repartee between Hamilton and Burr - seeing the subtle rivalry unfold in a rather conniving manner - that final jab during the case - that stung!​! 😠

​​ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ I appreciated the author touching upon the Quaker language difference; it created a bit of a more authentic touch to the time, despite how difficult it was to change up the narrative.​ 'Character. That was the crux of it all, wasn’t it?​' Not too sure if I was fond of either of Elma's cousins - Caty or Hope; their ambivalent, if not emotional outbursts were slightly annoying at times, but I understand the rationality behind it - oddly enough.​ 🤷🏻‍♀️

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ I guess I kept waiting for an opening; some Eureka kinda moment that would absolve Levi Weeks, or prove someone's theory accurate, or even a revelation that had been missed. Instead, the plot was more focused on the aftermath of this tragedy and how it damaged lives in ways least expected. 😥 I know it's not the fault of the author, but, it just seems then like a very unfulfilling read to walk away from. Which is a shame because the mystery had enough clues to exonerate any one person; but seeing no eventual path to walk off from made it a slightly unsatisfying feel.

​​ “This was a tale carefully crafted, deliberately told, not the random meanderings of idle speculation.”

​ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ As for the supposed culprits - the author showed each of them in a nuanced fashion that made any of them susceptible to the crime​, beyond reasonable doubt. 🥺​ The fact that even then people could discern when others were up to indecent affairs is odd, but considering the state of affairs, it's also disheartening, too.​ For as much as the blurb cites —with a surprising twist ending that reveals the true story of the woman at the center of the tale​', I didn't walk away with that feeling. Instead, I was once again privy to how man has really not changed no matter what century. And that is a dark corner of history that tragically still very much exists today. 💔

​​ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ But, as always why I gravitate more towards historical fiction, I learned about a part of American history that I was not aware of. Reading the historical facts, my head started spinning! 🫨 Because so much is conjecture, so much is hearsay, so much is still a tragedy buried underneath certain key events that hinted to major foul play, as well as actions that no one can take back. It hurts to think about that whomsoever committed the crime, or whether it was a suicide, or simply an accident, we'll never know. And that unsettling feeling of reasonable doubt is enough to remain and remind me every time I will think about my first attempt with the author's work. 😔

[Holly in Bookland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great novel written by one of my favorite authors. The story focuses on the trial of Levi Weeks. He’s accused of murdering a young woman, Elma Sands. New York 1800, we have Quakers, Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, & so many other historical figures. I had no clue about this trial or the events, but leave it to Willig to have me so interested & invested in this story. I was constantly looking up the people that this event was based on. I have my own theories based on what I read and from the note at the end. I think the culprit ultimately got was coming to him. I felt bad for Elma throughout the story. I’m also glad that trials aren’t so convoluted as they once were.

[Shantha (ShanthasBookEra) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Going into this, I expected more of a historical mystery but ended up with what read like a courtroom transcript. I really thought I would love this one, but it wasn't an enjoyable or compelling read for me. I didn't feel drawn to the characters. I gave it a third star because the amount of research the author did is impressive. This wasn't for me, but it might be for you.

[Lisa Burgos · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fictionalized historical novel of a real-life murder mystery which takes place in NYC in 1800. A young Elma Sands tells her cousin she is leaving to get married, and is soon found dead in the bottom of a well. Suspicion falls to Levi Weeks, the man she claimed she was to marry. A race against time Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr defend Mr. Weeks. Part murder mystery, part thriller, part true crime with a twist at the end.

[Angie Miale · Rating 3 out of 5]

The year is 1800, and Levi Weeks is on trial for the murder of Elma Sands, a young woman found at the bottom of a well. She told her sister she was getting married to Levi, a local carpenter. But trials in 1800 are much different than they are today. The practice of law, as well as the lack of any forensic evidence; makes this story different than your typical mystery.

The language is quite puritan, a lot of Thee and beknownst and bethought. The narrative grows more complex as the story unfolds, and many differing opinions bring the reader to their own conclusions.

I enjoyed rhetorical story and was intrigued by the premise. We don’t get many historical fiction mysteries. The story was true to the culture of the time. I also appreciated the character development and pacing of the reveals.

A good cross-genre novel for 2025.

Thanks to @netgalley and @williammorrowbooks for the ARC. Book to be published March 4, 2025.

#booksbooksbooks #bookstagram #booklover #arcreview #booktok #netgalley #bookrecommendations #TheGirlFromGreenwichStreet

[The Bookish Elf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lauren Willig masterfully resurrects one of early America's most sensational murder trials in "The Girl from Greenwich Street," weaving a complex tapestry of historical fact and thoughtful fiction. Set against the backdrop of a fledgling New York City in 1799-1800, this gripping narrative brilliantly explores the infamous Manhattan Well murder case—a trial that saw bitter rivals Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr join forces as defense attorneys. With meticulous attention to historical detail and remarkable psychological insight, Willig transforms dusty court transcripts into a living, breathing world of ambition, betrayal, and hidden motives.

Unlike many historical fiction novels that merely use history as wallpaper, Willig deeply embeds her narrative within the social, political, and legal frameworks of the era. The murder of Elma Sands becomes not just a mystery to be solved but a lens through which we examine the fragile foundations of American justice, the strictures facing women, and the political machinations that have always colored our pursuit of truth.

The Heart of the Mystery: Characters Who Breathe and Bleed

Willig's greatest triumph lies in her multidimensional characterization. Rather than presenting Elma Sands as a simple victim or Levi Weeks as a clear villain, she reveals the complicated humanity behind historical figures often reduced to mere footnotes.

Elma emerges as a complex woman navigating impossible constraints—her illegitimacy marking her as an outsider even within her Quaker family. Her cousin Catherine Ring's internal struggles between duty and resentment, between truth and family preservation, make her far more than the respectable matron history recorded. Hope Sands, whose perspective becomes increasingly central to the narrative, offers a powerful emotional anchor as she navigates her own conflicted feelings about both Elma and Levi.

Even the historical heavyweights—Hamilton, Burr, and Livingston—are rendered with nuance rather than reverence. Hamilton's obsessive pursuit of justice battles with his equally powerful ambition; Burr's polished charm masks calculation at every turn. These are not the marble statues of history but men of flesh and blood, driven by conflicting motives and human frailties.

A Masterclass in Historical Immersion

What separates good historical fiction from great historical fiction is the author's ability to make readers forget they're reading about the past. Willig accomplishes this with remarkable skill:

- Sensory details that place us firmly in 1800 New York: the stench of the glue manufactory mingling with sea air, the constant threat of yellow fever, the omnipresent mud that seeps through pattens and ruins expensive shoes

- Period-specific language that feels authentic without becoming impenetrable, particularly in her faithful reproduction of Quaker "plain speech"

- Societal structures explained naturally through character action rather than exposition

- Legal procedures of the era presented clearly, highlighting how vastly different early American jurisprudence was from our modern system

The crowning achievement is Willig's recreation of the trial itself. Drawing directly from contemporary transcripts, she brings to life a courtroom drama that feels surprisingly modern in its strategic maneuvering while remaining firmly rooted in its time.

Thematic Richness Beyond the Whodunit

While the central mystery drives the narrative, Willig explores themes that resonate far beyond a simple murder investigation:

The Burden of Female Reputation

At every turn, women's lives hang on the thread of their perceived virtue. Elma's reputation becomes battleground territory during the trial, with the defense working to portray her as "melancholy" and promiscuous while the prosecution presents her as an innocent victim. Margaret Miller, Croucher's stepdaughter and rape victim, faces similar scrutiny. As Brockholst Livingston argues in court: "When once it is known that a girl has had a connection with a man, there is instantly a strong bias in her own mind, and in those of her relations, that it should be proved to be done by violence."

Justice vs. Political Expedience

Hamilton, Burr, and Colden all profess devotion to justice while simultaneously using the trial for political advantage. The coming election hovers over every legal maneuver, a reminder that American justice has never been isolated from political consideration.

Truth's Many Faces

Perhaps most compelling is Willig's exploration of how difficult truth is to discern. Each character possesses only partial knowledge, their perspectives clouded by self-interest, social pressures, and genuine belief. The reader becomes detective alongside the characters, sifting evidence that points in multiple directions.

Where the Novel Falls Short

Despite its considerable strengths, "The Girl from Greenwich Street" does have occasional weaknesses:

- The narrative sometimes feels overburdened by its commitment to historical detail, particularly during the trial scenes where the inclusion of verbatim testimony occasionally slows the pacing

- While Willig admirably juggles multiple perspectives, a few minor viewpoint characters receive less development than others

- The theoretical framework she constructs around Elma's possible pregnancy and miscarriage, while plausible and sensitively handled, remains necessarily speculative

- The epilogue, while informative, feels somewhat disconnected from the emotional thrust of the narrative

Final Verdict: A Compelling Resurrection of a Forgotten Chapter

"The Girl from Greenwich Street" succeeds brilliantly on multiple levels:

1. As a meticulously researched historical novel that brings early American legal proceedings to vivid life
2. As a complex murder mystery with genuine suspense despite its basis in historical fact
3. As a character study exploring the constraints on women's lives in post-Revolutionary America
4. As a political thriller capturing the bitter rivalries that would eventually lead to Hamilton's death at Burr's hands

For readers who appreciate historical fiction that challenges as much as it entertains, Willig's novel offers a rich, immersive experience. It reminds us that the past is never as distant as we imagine, that human nature—in all its complicated, contradictory glory—remains a constant across centuries.

Most powerfully, it gives voice to Elma Sands herself, a woman whose death became sensation but whose life was largely forgotten. In Willig's capable hands, she becomes not just a body in a well but a person of substance—flawed, yearning, and ultimately, deeply human. That transformation from historical footnote to fully realized character is perhaps this remarkable novel's greatest achievement.

[Susy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Quite enjoyed this though at the same time I didn’t find it particularly….new or engaging? Also not very memorable as 1 week later and already I have forgotten most of it.

Characters 7
Atmosphere 7
Writing Style 7
Premise 7
Execution/Plot 7
Execution/Pace 7
Execution/Setup 7
Enjoyment/Engrossment 7
Narration 7

[Heidi (can’t retire soon enough) · Rating 3 out of 5]

RTC

[Christi (christireadsalot) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Girl from Greenwich Street is a historical fiction that is centered about the nation’s first murder trial. So it has that true crime/legal aspect to it, but set in 1799/1800. The tagline is what grabbed my attention first as it was a part of history I was familiar with, “A novel of Hamilton, Burr, and America’s first murder trial.”

I have read this author once before and I’m not sure if her writing style just isn’t for me, but I didn’t love this one. It felt very sloggy to get into in the beginning. Not sure if it’s just because of the context of this story or if it’s the writing style. I did like how we get to see so much of all of the character’s involved and the historical aspects of it all. We really get into the character’s lives at the time while they’re also involved in aspects of the murder trial. Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr have to work together on the case (one-time friends, but mostly political rivals), Elma (the murder victim), Levi (the accused), Quakers, etc! There were excerpts from the court transcripts which was interesting. I think if you enjoy legal/crime in your historical fiction, you might enjoy this new release.

I received an ARC from the publisher, all thoughts in the review are my own.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

This exahustively researched, atmospheric novel had some interesting aspects but ultimately fell short for me. The murder mystery was interesting. But long chapters would reveal very few actual details. The writing is very dialog-heavy, which is not my preferred style. However, Willig manages to create a fabulous sense of place and time even among all the dialog. I didn't enjoy the drama between Hamilton and Burr, mainly because I didn't know much about them and felt there was very little background given to help the reader appreciate why they had a feud. I felt plopped in the middle of the conflict and never caught up. The ending was a bit frustrating. The lengthy author's note was more interesting than the novel, for me.

Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book and provide feedback.

[HMS · Rating 2 out of 5]

I just could not get into this book, I was bored and angry reading it. Life is too short!

[Deanna (she_reads_truth_365) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 star rating

My girls love the musical Alexander Hamilton so it didn’t take much to convince me to read this one. This was an enjoyable slow burn historical fiction murder mystery based on a true story. Courtroom dramas are my cup of tea! The amount of research that went into this book seems overwhelming but author Lauren Willig did a fantastic job of sharing a comprehensive historical note on how she came to tell this story and all her sources. This is my second book by the author and so far The Girl from Greenwich Street is my favorite!

I received an advanced electronic copy from publisher William Morrow books and Netgalley. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! This is about America's first murder trial in 1800. Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr work together to defend Levi Weeks who is accused of murdering Elma Sands. Elma went missing in December 1799 and her body was found in January 1800. Aaron Burr just wants to prove Levi didn't murder her while Hamilton wants to actually find out who did murder Elma. Obviously there is a lot of tension between the two men. Even though I already knew the outcome of the trial I was transfixed by what was going on and did not want to put the book down. I did not know all of the twists and turns of the trial and the real people involved.

-And by right, as Aaron knew all too well, Hamilton meant his way. If there was one thing of which Hamilton was assured, it was that he was right and everyone else was wrong, co-counsel be damned.

-"When once you let the mob have their voice, there is no hope of justice."

-"The court is trying to determine whether to adjourn. There is no precedent for a trial going into a second day."

-Everyone was lying, everyone was hiding something.

[Heather Littman · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

[Amy Dreyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super interesting book! I’m not well-educated on the story of Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, but I imagine a history buff would absolutely love this book. I read the lengthy historical footnotes at the end and it was so cool to see how the author did her research for the book.

[Nora · Rating 3 out of 5]

audiobook

sometimes historical fiction is a bit cringy (for lack of a better word) and this definitely had its moments, however, I found The Girl From Greenwich Street to be compelling.

[Christina (Confessions of a Book Addict) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Elma Sands is living at her cousin's boardinghouse in New York City. One night in December, she leaves and doesn't return. Her cousins know she had a relationship with a fellow boarder, Levi Weeks, and they thought they had plans to be married. However, Levi doesn't know where Elma is and once her body shows up in the Manhattan well weeks later, all fingers point to Levi. Levi's brother, Ezra, is wealthy and hires an excellent attorney to defend his brother. Enter stage left: Aaron Burr. Due to politics and the sensation around this case (perhaps some jealousy, too?) Alexander Hamilton insists he helps with the defense of Levi as well. This trial became a sensation in New York City with a lot of attention as this was the first US murder trial. Fans of true crime, historical mysteries, and Alexander Hamilton will savor The Girl from Greenwich Street by Lauren Willig.
Read the rest of my review here: http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...

[LadyAReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love historical fiction, true crime, or find yourself wondering “what was that 1st murder trial they mention in Hamilton?” Then this is the book for you. There is a ton of detail and research was clearly done well.

# The Girl from Greenwich Street
# 3/29/2025 ~ 3/31/2025
# 4.0 / 5.0

[Jessica - How Jessica Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

A historical novel set during the trial of Levi Weeks for the murder of Elma Sands in 1800 NYC. Hamilton & Burr on defense, a future mayor of NYC as prosecutor. Well researched and engaging!

[Jessica Hembree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical fiction based heavily on reality. The author includes a wealth of information at the end of the book about the process of researching, the information found, the liberties taken, and what happened to the persons at the forefront of the story. The writing is gripping, bringing you into the heart of a trial. Did the young lady decide to end her life? Was she a wonton who found herself tied to multiple men, one of whom had cause to remove her? Did a jealous lover attack her? Perhaps a scorned wife wanted her removed from the picture? What happened to this young woman… Will Hamilton, Burr, and the rest of those involved in the trial uncover the truth and charge the killer or will this historical trial end in mystery? This book was so entertaining to read and I found myself eager to reach the outcome.

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting historical fiction based on real life 1800s murder with Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton as defense attorneys!

[Dana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Won’t argue that it’s very well researched. But the story just dragged a bit for me before we even got to the trial and was repetitive at parts. 3 stars for teaching me something new though.

[Joce · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was okay. I listened to this on audiobook for my bookclub. I found the true crime aspect of this very interesting and enjoyed listening to the trial transcript portion of this book and also really appreciated the epilogue and the authors note at the end. It’s clear that the author did a lot of research on this case and trial and put in a lot of effort to make this entertaining for people who maybe don’t love podcast-style or non-fiction narratives. I felt like the first 70% of this book really dragged on and was hard to follow at times. I feel like I would have rather listened to a non-fiction podcast version of this court case rather than a historical fiction version of it. I’m sure a podcast exists and in fact might look one up.

[Cheryl S (book_boss_12) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars for this one, I really liked it. First off, it's based on a true story, and that story is a murder in 1799. The author used transcripts from the court trial and often quoted exact lines.

Elma considered a bastard child told her cousin she was off to marry Levi Weeks. When she was found in a well several days later, Levi was arrested for murder. Worse yet, people are saying she was with child.

Did she kill herself so as not to offer the same fate to her child? Or was she murdered and did Levi do it? Was she really even pregnant?

The thing is, we will never know, but witness accounts tell of a Quaker town with lots of scandalous activity, up to and including that house on Greenwich Street.

The author really breaks it down in the end, telling how she changed a few things and her own conclusions.

If you love historical mysteries like me, this one gets an 8/10 recommendation level.

[Brittany McCann · Rating 3 out of 5]

A historical fiction about a real trial.

Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr investigate the murder of Elma Sands.

There were moments that were SUPER interesting.

Unfortunately, the different viewpoints rehashing the EXACT same details got tedious, droll, and not enjoyable to read. Better editing was needed to resolve these plot flow issues.

Just barely 3 stars.

[Amanda Geaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engrossing. Well-written. Interesting history.

[Ro · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded up