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Browns of Butcher’s Hill #1
Kidnapped
Phillip Brown wakes up one bitter November morning to find a woman near frozen on the stoop of the Baltimore home he shares with his sister and uncle. The unconscious woman eventually awakens, unwilling to share who has terrified her while she makes a recovery in the Brown home. He continues his work at the Wiest Oyster Cannery and pouring beer on occasion at his neighborhood brewery while guarding his family from dangerous criminals’ intent of silencing his discoveries about the woman.
Daughter of the Wiest Oyster Cannery owner, Virginia Wiest hears the story of the unconscious woman by chance and is intrigued and determined to help. Deemed sickly as a young girl and cossetted by a widowed father, Virginia is drawn to helping the less fortunate and aiding Brown unravel the mystery surrounding the woman and her missing child.
When Virginia makes an ill-fated attempt to save the child, Phillip finds himself and his heart in danger. The daring rescue from a well-heeled brothel nearly ends him and his dreams.
This historical mystery includes a Happy for Now (HFN) conclusion.
Daughter of the Wiest Oyster Cannery owner, Virginia Wiest hears the story of the unconscious woman by chance and is intrigued and determined to help. Deemed sickly as a young girl and cossetted by a widowed father, Virginia is drawn to helping the less fortunate and aiding Brown unravel the mystery surrounding the woman and her missing child.
When Virginia makes an ill-fated attempt to save the child, Phillip finds himself and his heart in danger. The daring rescue from a well-heeled brothel nearly ends him and his dreams.
This historical mystery includes a Happy for Now (HFN) conclusion.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2025
12 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Holly Bush
26 books721 followers“Love always has something to say. Sometimes it shouts from the highest hill, and sometimes it whispers so softly one must listen closely to hear. Do not turn away. It is a rare and precious commodity. Treasure it.” The Gentrys of Paradise
Holly's newest series is a historical mystery set in Baltimore in 1867, The Browns of Butcher's Hill. The first book is available called Kidnapped. Blackmailed releases in August of 2025 and Murdered in November of 2025.
Holly's historical romances are set in the US during the turbulent and transformative years of the late 1800’s.
The Thompsons of Locust Street, Philadelphia, chronicles five siblings from Scotland with some danger and mystery surrounding their move to America. The series order is The Bachelor's Bride, The Bareknuckle Groom, The Professor's Lady, and The Captain's Woman. The final book in the series will release in 2024.
The Gentrys of Paradise begins with the novella Into the Evermore where readers meet Virginia horse breeders, Eleanor and Beauregard Gentry. The following books feature their children, Adam, Matthew, and Olivia in For the Brave, For This Moment, and For Her Honor.
The Crawford Family Series following the fortunes of the three Boston born Crawford sisters and includes Train Station Bride, Contract to Wed, Her Safe Harbor, and companion novella, The Maid’s Quarters.
Cross the Ocean and Charming the Duke are both British set Victorian romances. Fan favorites stand-alone historical romance novels include Romancing Olive and Reconstructing Jackson. Holly's books are described as ‘emotional, with heartfelt, sexy romance.’
She also writes General Fiction under the name of Hollis Bush.
Holly makes her home with her husband, one happy Labrador Retriever, a clever Jack Russell rescued from the pound, and two difficult cats in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Connect with Holly at www.hollybushbooks.com, on Twitter @hollybushbooks, and on Facebook at Holly Bush. Follow Holly on her Amazon author page to receive new release updates and on BookBub to check out her reviews and get sale information.
Holly's newest series is a historical mystery set in Baltimore in 1867, The Browns of Butcher's Hill. The first book is available called Kidnapped. Blackmailed releases in August of 2025 and Murdered in November of 2025.
Holly's historical romances are set in the US during the turbulent and transformative years of the late 1800’s.
The Thompsons of Locust Street, Philadelphia, chronicles five siblings from Scotland with some danger and mystery surrounding their move to America. The series order is The Bachelor's Bride, The Bareknuckle Groom, The Professor's Lady, and The Captain's Woman. The final book in the series will release in 2024.
The Gentrys of Paradise begins with the novella Into the Evermore where readers meet Virginia horse breeders, Eleanor and Beauregard Gentry. The following books feature their children, Adam, Matthew, and Olivia in For the Brave, For This Moment, and For Her Honor.
The Crawford Family Series following the fortunes of the three Boston born Crawford sisters and includes Train Station Bride, Contract to Wed, Her Safe Harbor, and companion novella, The Maid’s Quarters.
Cross the Ocean and Charming the Duke are both British set Victorian romances. Fan favorites stand-alone historical romance novels include Romancing Olive and Reconstructing Jackson. Holly's books are described as ‘emotional, with heartfelt, sexy romance.’
She also writes General Fiction under the name of Hollis Bush.
Holly makes her home with her husband, one happy Labrador Retriever, a clever Jack Russell rescued from the pound, and two difficult cats in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Connect with Holly at www.hollybushbooks.com, on Twitter @hollybushbooks, and on Facebook at Holly Bush. Follow Holly on her Amazon author page to receive new release updates and on BookBub to check out her reviews and get sale information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 19, 2025
the setup…
Phillip Brown is a floor manager at the Wiest Oyster Cannery in 1867 Baltimore. He and his sister live nearby with the uncle that raised them following the death of their parents. It’s frigidly cold outside on a November morning when he discovers a woman lying unconscious and nearly frozen on the front stoop. They work to nurse her back to health, still not knowing her identity or why she came to be at their home. One evening when he had to deliver important papers at his employer’s home, he shared the information about the woman to Wiest’s daughter Virginia who took more than a passing interest in the situation. Phillip had no idea the firestorm he set off that evening that would lead to danger for him, his family and Virginia.
the heart of the story…
Phillip has a reputation in his neighborhood of being a “fixer,” not the criminal sort but the go-to person to help out those in need. Virginia seems to have a similar nature despite her breeding, determined to help out the woman abandoned on the Brown’s doorstep. He’s all alpha male and she’s feisty, a combination that you know was fueling an attraction. I liked both of them though Virginia took some crazy risks in her attempt to prove her independence to Phillip and her father.
the bottom line…
This turned out to be a thriller of an historical mystery with threats around every corner after the discovery of that unconscious woman. Phillip is fearless but also highly skilled at his job and dealing with the unsavory. The romantic tension between him and Virginia was obvious despite the differences in their stations. It’s an exciting story I hadn’t anticipated, one I almost consumed in one sitting. Great start to the new series!
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Phillip Brown is a floor manager at the Wiest Oyster Cannery in 1867 Baltimore. He and his sister live nearby with the uncle that raised them following the death of their parents. It’s frigidly cold outside on a November morning when he discovers a woman lying unconscious and nearly frozen on the front stoop. They work to nurse her back to health, still not knowing her identity or why she came to be at their home. One evening when he had to deliver important papers at his employer’s home, he shared the information about the woman to Wiest’s daughter Virginia who took more than a passing interest in the situation. Phillip had no idea the firestorm he set off that evening that would lead to danger for him, his family and Virginia.
the heart of the story…
Phillip has a reputation in his neighborhood of being a “fixer,” not the criminal sort but the go-to person to help out those in need. Virginia seems to have a similar nature despite her breeding, determined to help out the woman abandoned on the Brown’s doorstep. He’s all alpha male and she’s feisty, a combination that you know was fueling an attraction. I liked both of them though Virginia took some crazy risks in her attempt to prove her independence to Phillip and her father.
the bottom line…
This turned out to be a thriller of an historical mystery with threats around every corner after the discovery of that unconscious woman. Phillip is fearless but also highly skilled at his job and dealing with the unsavory. The romantic tension between him and Virginia was obvious despite the differences in their stations. It’s an exciting story I hadn’t anticipated, one I almost consumed in one sitting. Great start to the new series!
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
August 20, 2025
3.5 - 4 stars
Kidnapped is the first book in the intriguing historical mystery series The Browns of Butcher’s Hill by Holly Bush.
Phillip should have known, finding a mystery half-frozen woman on his doorstep would lead to trouble. The kind of trouble that leads to danger, and no one is safe. His sister, as well as Virginia, insists on helping the woman and unwittingly puts herself in harm's way. Trying to keep his family and his boss’s daughter safe makes for an interesting journey, especially where a headstrong Virginia is involved. The chemistry between the two is undeniable.
The tension and suspense are palpable in this complex, multilayered web they traverse as they try to unravel the mysterious woman and what she has gotten herself into.
This exciting tale is a great start to this series, and I can’t wait to explore more books in this series.
Kidnapped is the first book in the intriguing historical mystery series The Browns of Butcher’s Hill by Holly Bush.
Phillip should have known, finding a mystery half-frozen woman on his doorstep would lead to trouble. The kind of trouble that leads to danger, and no one is safe. His sister, as well as Virginia, insists on helping the woman and unwittingly puts herself in harm's way. Trying to keep his family and his boss’s daughter safe makes for an interesting journey, especially where a headstrong Virginia is involved. The chemistry between the two is undeniable.
The tension and suspense are palpable in this complex, multilayered web they traverse as they try to unravel the mysterious woman and what she has gotten herself into.
This exciting tale is a great start to this series, and I can’t wait to explore more books in this series.
June 13, 2025
awesome new book series
I have enjoyed many of the authors books. But this new series has me hooked. I cannot wait for the second book to be released. I truly enjoyed the first one and talked about to others who are now reading it. Thank you Holly for your amazing work on your newest novel series.
I have enjoyed many of the authors books. But this new series has me hooked. I cannot wait for the second book to be released. I truly enjoyed the first one and talked about to others who are now reading it. Thank you Holly for your amazing work on your newest novel series.
August 22, 2025
Kidnapped by Holly Bush is the first book in this exciting historical fiction mystery series! This book kept me turning the pages all night with its fast paced plot. Kidnapped is perfect for a nice cozy read and it can definitely be finished in a day! Bush is an amazing writer who knows how to grab hold of a reader and not let go! I can’t wait to read Blackmailed her second book in this fabulous series! I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for a great mystery!
January 4, 2026
Short cozy, American Historical, mystery/ romance.
This is a good example of this genre.
This is a good example of this genre.
August 15, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Phillip Brown knows how to get himself into trouble. Living with his Uncle Patrick and his younger sister Sarah, he makes his money by working at a Cannery and pulling pints at a local Brewery, and as an inadvertent side project, does a tiny but of crime fighting, including, but not limited to, hearing the plans of a local crime boss and helping but him behind bars. This time, however, trouble finds him in the form of a young woman. Dropped unceremoniously on his doorstep near frozen, the woman poses a troubling mystery - who is she and where did she come from? The mystery only deepens when she finally wakes and is reluctant to talk. However, increased danger from outside forces finally convinces her to reveal her identity and relay a tragic tale of a kidnapped child and bribery. Added to the mix is Virginia Wiest, the beautiful, sickly but strong-willed daughter of Allistair Wiest, owner of Wiest Cannery and Phillips' boss. Virginia, hearing the plight of the woman, will stop at nothing to get her son back, even if it means putting herself in danger.
This book was pedal to the metal from start to finish. The narrative moved along at a quick pace, barely giving you time to breathe. I quite liked this, enjoying the fast pace and the action, and given the time-sensitive nature of the issues (a child being missing), it made sense. However, I sometimes found myself wanting to linger with the characters a bit more and get to know them better. Phillip was a brave and sometimes reckless protagonist, and his temper had me shouting at him to take a deep breath and calm down, on more than one occasion. But honestly, given the amount of beatings that dude took, I think I’d be a little pissy too. Let's just say, Doctor Prosperi had his hands full. I loved Virginia; she was strong and determined, although, bless her cottons, she really did just run face-first into danger on many occasions throughout this book. This I felt suited her character, though, being naive and protected by her rich father and her high standing in society. I can say with only minimal embarrassment that I have built a big ship for Ginny and Phillip, and they are riding off into the sunset together, happily ever after. Hopefully, this is something that will be explored as this series goes on.
It was an enjoyable read, and I would recommend it to anyone who likes a fast-paced mystery with plenty of action.
Phillip Brown knows how to get himself into trouble. Living with his Uncle Patrick and his younger sister Sarah, he makes his money by working at a Cannery and pulling pints at a local Brewery, and as an inadvertent side project, does a tiny but of crime fighting, including, but not limited to, hearing the plans of a local crime boss and helping but him behind bars. This time, however, trouble finds him in the form of a young woman. Dropped unceremoniously on his doorstep near frozen, the woman poses a troubling mystery - who is she and where did she come from? The mystery only deepens when she finally wakes and is reluctant to talk. However, increased danger from outside forces finally convinces her to reveal her identity and relay a tragic tale of a kidnapped child and bribery. Added to the mix is Virginia Wiest, the beautiful, sickly but strong-willed daughter of Allistair Wiest, owner of Wiest Cannery and Phillips' boss. Virginia, hearing the plight of the woman, will stop at nothing to get her son back, even if it means putting herself in danger.
This book was pedal to the metal from start to finish. The narrative moved along at a quick pace, barely giving you time to breathe. I quite liked this, enjoying the fast pace and the action, and given the time-sensitive nature of the issues (a child being missing), it made sense. However, I sometimes found myself wanting to linger with the characters a bit more and get to know them better. Phillip was a brave and sometimes reckless protagonist, and his temper had me shouting at him to take a deep breath and calm down, on more than one occasion. But honestly, given the amount of beatings that dude took, I think I’d be a little pissy too. Let's just say, Doctor Prosperi had his hands full. I loved Virginia; she was strong and determined, although, bless her cottons, she really did just run face-first into danger on many occasions throughout this book. This I felt suited her character, though, being naive and protected by her rich father and her high standing in society. I can say with only minimal embarrassment that I have built a big ship for Ginny and Phillip, and they are riding off into the sunset together, happily ever after. Hopefully, this is something that will be explored as this series goes on.
It was an enjoyable read, and I would recommend it to anyone who likes a fast-paced mystery with plenty of action.
August 6, 2025
An enjoyable and engaging historical mystery romance. Set in Baltimore during a bitter November Phillip Brown, who works at the Wiest Oyster Cannery, discovers a near frozen woman on his doorstep. Along with his uncle and sister who he lives with, they look after the unconscious woman whilst she recovers. However, she is terrified and unwilling to say who she is or what has happened to her. Phillip is determined to find out who this woman is, but soon finds himself having to protect his family from some dangerous criminals who don’t like him asking questions. Meanwhile, Virginia Wiest the daughter of Phillip’s boss hears about the unconscious woman and is eager to help.
Virginia and Phillip both develop feelings for one another as they work together, discovering the mystery surrounding the woman, especially when they learn she has a missing child. During an attempt to save the child Virginia finds herself in danger, and Phillip must undertake a daring rescue from an upmarket brothel. Both the characters and the setting are brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, which made me feel immersed in the story. I liked the developing relationship between Phillip and Virginia and found the supporting characters all added to the overall story. The mystery element kept me hooked throughout, and with its HFN ending I look forward to book two, hopefully coming soon!
Virginia and Phillip both develop feelings for one another as they work together, discovering the mystery surrounding the woman, especially when they learn she has a missing child. During an attempt to save the child Virginia finds herself in danger, and Phillip must undertake a daring rescue from an upmarket brothel. Both the characters and the setting are brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, which made me feel immersed in the story. I liked the developing relationship between Phillip and Virginia and found the supporting characters all added to the overall story. The mystery element kept me hooked throughout, and with its HFN ending I look forward to book two, hopefully coming soon!
August 20, 2025
Kidnapped is the First Book in the Browns of Butcher’s Hill Series. It is an historical fiction set in Baltimore in the year 1867. It is full of mystery, suspense, action, family dynamics, justice, social class tensions, courage, sacrifice, romantic tension and emotional growth. The story centers around Phillip Brown, a cannery worker and part-time bartender, who discovers a near-frozen, unconscious woman on his doorstep. She refuses to reveal her identity or what she's fleeing from, but Phillip takes her in and protects her. Virginia Wiest, daughter of Phillip’s boss and a compassionate socialite, becomes involved in uncovering the woman’s story. The mystery deepens with revelations of a missing child, criminal threats, and a daring rescue from a brothel. This book was well written, and I became fully immersed in the setting of Baltimore in the early 1860’s. The characters were well-written, and I became fully invested in their lives and the outcome of their story. Phillip Brown is brave, loyal, and protective. Virginia Wiest is sheltered but strong-willed; determined to help and drawn to Phillip. The Unidentified Woman is central to the mystery, and her silence and trauma drive the plot. There was a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, emotional depth, and romantic tension. Looking forward to reading the next book in this amazing series.
August 21, 2025
This is the first book in The Browns of Butcher’s Hill series, and wow, What a start it was! Kidnapped was such an unexpected gem. Set in gritty 1920s Baltimore, it kicks off with Phillip Brown discovering a half-frozen woman on his doorstep, and from there, things only get more intense. The mystery unravels slowly but keeps you hooked, especially as Phillip juggles oyster canning by day, pouring beers by night, and dodging criminals in between. I really liked the dynamic between Phillip and Virginia, who has a soft heart and a streak of rebellion. Her determination to help, despite her sheltered upbringing, gave the story a nice balance of grit and compassion. There's a great blend of suspense, heart, and historical atmosphere, and the writing makes the era feel alive without being heavy-handed. It was also incredible that the wonderful Holly Bush somehow made these characters feel like they were well-established in the very first book! The rescue scene near the end had me holding my breath, and I was genuinely worried for the characters. The romance felt earned, not forced, and I appreciated that. If you're into historical mysteries with emotional stakes and a touch of romance, this one’s definitely worth picking up. I am excited to see what the rest of the series brings!
August 5, 2025
Kidnapped is the first book in The Browns of Butcher’s Hill series of historical mysteries. I was drawn to it by the Baltimore setting - I’ve visited there often and enjoy exploring the history of the area. The action-packed story kept me gripped throughout!
I like that, although it’s the start of the series, the characters feel more established. Everyone has a bit of a backstory and this isn’t the first case Phillip Brown has gotten entangled in. There isn’t an overwhelming amount of exposition, but we get snippets of people’s pasts as we go along.
There’s a great cast of supporting characters, including lots of relatives and household staff of the main characters. Virginia Wiest is at times a bit predictable as a heroine, with her inability to let herself be protected, but there are also times when her connections and social standing prove useful. She’s also a great match for Phillip Brown who similarly disregards his own safety and needs to be rescued.
Kidnapped gets five stars from me, and I’m looking forward to Blackmailed coming out soon! I’d recommend this series to fans of historical mysteries who like stories with plenty of action.
I like that, although it’s the start of the series, the characters feel more established. Everyone has a bit of a backstory and this isn’t the first case Phillip Brown has gotten entangled in. There isn’t an overwhelming amount of exposition, but we get snippets of people’s pasts as we go along.
There’s a great cast of supporting characters, including lots of relatives and household staff of the main characters. Virginia Wiest is at times a bit predictable as a heroine, with her inability to let herself be protected, but there are also times when her connections and social standing prove useful. She’s also a great match for Phillip Brown who similarly disregards his own safety and needs to be rescued.
Kidnapped gets five stars from me, and I’m looking forward to Blackmailed coming out soon! I’d recommend this series to fans of historical mysteries who like stories with plenty of action.
August 5, 2025
3.5 Stars
Kidnapped is the first book in The Browns of Butcher’s Hill series by Holly Bush. It’s a tense and richly woven historical mystery with a dash of romantic tension, dramatic developments, family dynamics, well developed/intriguing characters, twists and turns, grit, charm, danger, and emotion.
The story is set in 1880s Baltimore and kicks off when Phillip Brown finds a half-frozen, unconscious woman on his doorstep in. And even when she finally regains consciousness, she won’t say what happened, or who or what she was running from, but Phillip is determined to protect her anyway - even if it means tangling with some seriously shady characters.
Enter Virginia Wiest, the sheltered but spirited daughter of the local oyster cannery owner (*the same cannery where Phillip works). She’s got a soft spot for helping people and a growing interest in both the mystery woman, as well as Phillip himself. Together, they dig into a dark web of secrets, missing children, and brothel rescues that puts everything - including Phillip’s heart - on the line.
Looking forward to continuing the series with Book #2 – ‘Blackmailed’ (releasing in soon).
Happy Reading…
Kidnapped is the first book in The Browns of Butcher’s Hill series by Holly Bush. It’s a tense and richly woven historical mystery with a dash of romantic tension, dramatic developments, family dynamics, well developed/intriguing characters, twists and turns, grit, charm, danger, and emotion.
The story is set in 1880s Baltimore and kicks off when Phillip Brown finds a half-frozen, unconscious woman on his doorstep in. And even when she finally regains consciousness, she won’t say what happened, or who or what she was running from, but Phillip is determined to protect her anyway - even if it means tangling with some seriously shady characters.
Enter Virginia Wiest, the sheltered but spirited daughter of the local oyster cannery owner (*the same cannery where Phillip works). She’s got a soft spot for helping people and a growing interest in both the mystery woman, as well as Phillip himself. Together, they dig into a dark web of secrets, missing children, and brothel rescues that puts everything - including Phillip’s heart - on the line.
Looking forward to continuing the series with Book #2 – ‘Blackmailed’ (releasing in soon).
Happy Reading…
August 20, 2025
This is the first book in the Browns of Butcher Hill series. These historical mysteries are really captivating and the authors descriptions and writing styles really transports the reader back in time. This is an historical mystery with a touch of romance, danger, secrets, twists and turns and so much more.
After a hard night he last thing he wanted was to wake up to find a half frozen woman in front of his door. When she regains consciousness Philip tries to find out who she is and where she came from, however the woman isn't sharing any details.
Now Philip is determined to get to the bottom of who this woman is and what she is running from but he is also determined to protect her.
Virginia is the daughter of Philips boss. When she hears the story of this mystery women she is determined to help Philip get to the bottom of this. But Virginia has led a very sheltered life and searching for answers places them in the sights of some very dangerous people. But neither of them will back down.
Add to this the feelings that starts to build between them and it becomes more than just their safety on the line.
I really enjoyed this story and I can't wait to read more.
After a hard night he last thing he wanted was to wake up to find a half frozen woman in front of his door. When she regains consciousness Philip tries to find out who she is and where she came from, however the woman isn't sharing any details.
Now Philip is determined to get to the bottom of who this woman is and what she is running from but he is also determined to protect her.
Virginia is the daughter of Philips boss. When she hears the story of this mystery women she is determined to help Philip get to the bottom of this. But Virginia has led a very sheltered life and searching for answers places them in the sights of some very dangerous people. But neither of them will back down.
Add to this the feelings that starts to build between them and it becomes more than just their safety on the line.
I really enjoyed this story and I can't wait to read more.
May 20, 2025
When a woman is found hurt and half frozen on Phillip Brown’s family home’s steps, his sister takes her in to care for her. But the woman becomes more trouble than as just an unexpected houseguest. With her comes danger that stalks Phillip, his family, and even his employer’s daughter, Virginia, who has also become involved in the intrigue.
Kidnapped by Holly Bush is a mixture of suspense, mystery, and romance. Phillip is just trying to help his family make ends meet in Baltimore in 1867 by working at the canning factory by day and the brewery by night. He has no interest in helping a strange woman, but his sister is headstrong and insists. When his employer’s daughter, Virginia, becomes involved, he is equally angry. The last thing he needs is another woman to protect who won’t listen to him. Tension, tender moments, and heartache follow, giving this story the perfect combination of emotions to keep the reader on edge and turning pages.
I’ve read all of Holly Bush’s novels and enjoyed them all. This one is no exception. I look forward to book two in this series.
Kidnapped by Holly Bush is a mixture of suspense, mystery, and romance. Phillip is just trying to help his family make ends meet in Baltimore in 1867 by working at the canning factory by day and the brewery by night. He has no interest in helping a strange woman, but his sister is headstrong and insists. When his employer’s daughter, Virginia, becomes involved, he is equally angry. The last thing he needs is another woman to protect who won’t listen to him. Tension, tender moments, and heartache follow, giving this story the perfect combination of emotions to keep the reader on edge and turning pages.
I’ve read all of Holly Bush’s novels and enjoyed them all. This one is no exception. I look forward to book two in this series.
August 8, 2025
Oh my goodness what a dapper gentleman on this cover , please don’t judge me I’m a cover junkie ❣️📕😉🙈
Phillip Brown shares his Baltimore home with his uncle and his sister , one morning as he goes out he finds a woman near frozen and being the gentleman that he is brings her inside to warm her up and nurse to health but there’s more to this young woman than meets the eyes and trouble follows her and she’s not ready to share her story which I understand but it also puts Phillip’s family in a difficult position 🙈
Virgina West is a well to lady and comes from a wealthy family that’s also rather influential and she’s keen to help Phillip solve this mystery and her connections come in handy but the problem with Victoria is she has this thing that she’s no damsel and doesn’t need help or protection which poses quite a danger for her , I just wanted to climb into to the book , shake her gently and tell her to let the dashing Phillip be her protector 🤣🤷♀️🙈
I did have a few swoon moments 🥰I was a little on edge at times but overall this really was a great read 😉
Phillip Brown shares his Baltimore home with his uncle and his sister , one morning as he goes out he finds a woman near frozen and being the gentleman that he is brings her inside to warm her up and nurse to health but there’s more to this young woman than meets the eyes and trouble follows her and she’s not ready to share her story which I understand but it also puts Phillip’s family in a difficult position 🙈
Virgina West is a well to lady and comes from a wealthy family that’s also rather influential and she’s keen to help Phillip solve this mystery and her connections come in handy but the problem with Victoria is she has this thing that she’s no damsel and doesn’t need help or protection which poses quite a danger for her , I just wanted to climb into to the book , shake her gently and tell her to let the dashing Phillip be her protector 🤣🤷♀️🙈
I did have a few swoon moments 🥰I was a little on edge at times but overall this really was a great read 😉
August 13, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. The story hooks you right away with an unknown woman left to die on a doorstep, near frozen to death and beaten. (The villains then wanted to kidnap her BACK, so I feel like this was a huge misstep in planning on their end... but they also don't appear to be overly clever so...) Phillip is an immensely likable main character who finds himself caught between several sets of bad guys- including a stuck up supervisor, falling for a woman who is outside his social class, and his boss (who apparently KNOWS his secretary is a d!ck, but hasn't done anything about it, despite being the caring boss lol)
Virginia, said boss' daughter, is a frustrating individual who seems to cause many problems for Phillip, and wants to be the independent female lead who can do what she wants- despite social standing, overall freedom of women at the time, and chronic health problems. Even so, I actually did like her character.
Overall, the book was well-written and I will absolutely read the next ones in the series.
Virginia, said boss' daughter, is a frustrating individual who seems to cause many problems for Phillip, and wants to be the independent female lead who can do what she wants- despite social standing, overall freedom of women at the time, and chronic health problems. Even so, I actually did like her character.
Overall, the book was well-written and I will absolutely read the next ones in the series.
August 15, 2025
Kidnapped by Holly Bush is the first book in the series titled “The Browns of Butcher Hill”. Kidnapped is about Phillip Brown, who leaves his house one day and finds a nearly frozen lady lying on his doorstep, unconscious. He and his sister bring her in and begin to nurse her back to health. One day, Phillip’s sister is visited by a friend (Virginia Weist) and her maid, and the maid recognizes the lady who is still unconscious. This recognition turns into a race to find out why the lady was left unconscious on Phillip’s door and to solve pieces of her life. In the process, Virginia is kidnapped, and Phillip is tasked with rescuing her.
Holly is a fantastic writer. She builds very real characters that you can easily picture throughout the book. His writing style is believable and makes you feel like you are there with the characters, trying to solve the mysteries. Book 2 has just been released, and I am eager to read it. Kidnapped kept me engrossed from the first chapter, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute I spent reading it. I give it 4.5 stars and highly recommend it.
Holly is a fantastic writer. She builds very real characters that you can easily picture throughout the book. His writing style is believable and makes you feel like you are there with the characters, trying to solve the mysteries. Book 2 has just been released, and I am eager to read it. Kidnapped kept me engrossed from the first chapter, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute I spent reading it. I give it 4.5 stars and highly recommend it.
August 20, 2025
Kidnapped (The Browns of Butcher's Hill Book 1) by Holly Bush. This is the first book in the Browns of Butcher's Hill series and it started off with a bang. This is such a fast paced mystery and I loved it! It's the story of Phillip Brown finding a near frozen woman on his doorstep one morning and he and his sister nurse her back to health. The woman refuses to tell them who scared her so badly and left her for dead. Phillip continues his work at the cannery and also helping at the brewery all while trying to keep the woman safe. Unknowingly this woman puts Phillip and his family in danger and he has to keep them safe. A local woman, Virginia, is a wealthy lady who likes to help people when she can and when she hears about this woman she wants to help her. The only problem being sometimes Virginia can make things worse before she makes them better sometimes. Along with the danger and mystery there is a romance blooming and its swoon worthy! I loved this book so much. It will keep you flipping pages late in the night!
August 21, 2025
Phillip works at the Wiest Oyster Cannery, he occasionally pours beer at the local brewery, and solves crimes in his spare time. A young woman that is nearly frozen to death has shown up on his doorstep. Who is she? Who or what is she running from? How did she end up there? There are many questions that need answered and he hopes to get them when the young lady wakes up. However Phillip will need to uncover clues and fit the pieces of the puzzle together because the young woman is unwilling to talk. The daughter of the man who owns the Wiester Oyster Cannery, Virginia Wiest, hears the story of the young woman and wants to help. At one point I felt that Virginia was a bit more of a hindrance than a help even though the ultimate outcome was good. I did enjoy the story and world building the author did. The characters felt real and the writing made me feel like I was right there in the midst of it all solving clues right along side them. The happy for now ending is making me hope that there will eventually be a happily ever after.
July 28, 2025
This is the first book in this series and what a great start it is. I enjoyed reading this historical mystery by this author. It is a well written story that is engaging and hard to put down. This is a story about Philip and Virginia. Phillip lives with his aunt and uncle. Phillip finds an unconscious woman on his doorstep. The woman is not willing to tell who she is but what Phillip doesn’t realize is how his life is about to change. When Virginia hears about his woman she is determined to help. Their story turns into a deadly mystery surrounding this woman. What happens between these two is something you don’t want to miss. I enjoyed the characters and time setting of this story. It made it easy and entertaining to read. They are engaging characters that are supportive of each other. They are connectable and have great growth throughout the story. This is a fast paced story that I enjoyed. I highly recommend this book.
August 21, 2025
Kidnapped was a little slow going for me at first. There was a lot going on but it didn’t really seem to come together enough to make me care. About halfway through the book, I got hooked and I didn’t want to put it down. The book is filled with kidnapping, opium, prostitution- the whole gambit. I don’t really love Virginia's character. There is reference to her being weak or ill but I’m not sure if there is a backstory in another book. She is a rich girl and while she wants to be tough and independent, she kind of sucks at it! I hope she grows to be a little stronger or smarter because otherwise I can't see her and Phillip becoming anything in the future, romantic or otherwise. I want to know more about him. He seems like a bit of a bad boy and a bit of a detective. I plan to read the next book in the series.
August 21, 2025
Kidnapped is book 1 of "The Browns Of Butcher Hill" series by Holly Bush. Im not going to lie, im absolutely addicted to historical fiction, so picking this up was an absolute must for me! When I say I may have found a new favorite historical fiction writer (Sorry Shannon, i still love you!) I mean it! This was SO addictive, and one of those that unravels itself at the perfect pace. I personally adored Virginia, as someone who has also been chronically ill their whole life, it was a surprising relief and joy to see a character genuinely have to stop to catch their breath. I too tend to accidentally make things worse before I make them better, so Virginia is basically my soul sister! Im already grabbing book 2, and i cannot wait to read it!
August 11, 2025
This book is a brilliant historical fiction, mystery story that really pulls you in from the start. It is quite an exciting story and I couldn’t wait to see how it developed as the book went on. There were a number of interconnecting aspects to the story and I loved following each one.
The characters all fit with the book well. The main characters were interesting and I enjoyed getting to know them as the story moved on. However, I also loved all the peripheral characters to this story. They all seemed to add something and I enjoyed the extra dimension they brought to the book. This is a great story and I cannot wait for the next in the series.
The characters all fit with the book well. The main characters were interesting and I enjoyed getting to know them as the story moved on. However, I also loved all the peripheral characters to this story. They all seemed to add something and I enjoyed the extra dimension they brought to the book. This is a great story and I cannot wait for the next in the series.
August 17, 2025
Not my usual genre to read whilst on holiday and I maybe was not 100% in the best mindset for this genre, I felt like it took me a while to get into it and gel with the characters, saying that when I did become engrossed with the storyline I found that the book was fully engaging and both the characters and the world development were solid and everything flowed as you would expect from a well written historical mystery. And as the first in the series I am looking forward to reading more.
When you find a half frozen woman on your doorstep in November I think you expect trouble to follow, and that is exactly what Phillip finds when he discovers.
Intrigue and Mystery do keep you hooked.
When you find a half frozen woman on your doorstep in November I think you expect trouble to follow, and that is exactly what Phillip finds when he discovers.
Intrigue and Mystery do keep you hooked.
August 21, 2025
Wow! What a fantastic read. If you find yourself in a reading slump, this one will get you out of it.
This is a fast-paced, action-packed story with wonderful characters and setting. Our main characters, Phillip Brown finds himself in the middle of a mystery when an unconscious, frozen woman turns up on his doorstep. Then a friend of the family is kidnapped and he races to save her.
I enjoyed the character development and the development of the plot—mixed with a wonderful setting in the mid 1800s! I can’t wait to read the next one! If you like historical fiction with mystery and great characters, this is for you!
This is a fast-paced, action-packed story with wonderful characters and setting. Our main characters, Phillip Brown finds himself in the middle of a mystery when an unconscious, frozen woman turns up on his doorstep. Then a friend of the family is kidnapped and he races to save her.
I enjoyed the character development and the development of the plot—mixed with a wonderful setting in the mid 1800s! I can’t wait to read the next one! If you like historical fiction with mystery and great characters, this is for you!
August 15, 2025
This is a very good Historical Mystery Romance Novel. I love the characters and the storyline, also like the fact it is in the olden days. To see what Phillip does for Virginia and his family to keep them safe because of a woman getting dropped off on his front porch to freeze to death and is unconscious. To watch them slowly piece everything together and figure it all out. This book was hard to put down once it gets going, because you want to see what happens next and what clues they uncover. I can't wait to read the next one.
August 20, 2025
Well this is a different genre for me. But sometimes a book will catch my interest, this is that type of book. Imagine going out your door to find a woman nearly frozen and unconscious. Phillip has discovered such a woman and now will do what he can to help her. This story has it all: mystery, intrigue and even HFN. I enjoyed this writer's style. The author's writing is clear, crisp and engaging. I could not put it down, it held my interest until the last page. Now I need to read book 2. I hope you enjoy this story as much as I did.
August 20, 2025
I fell in love with the characters in this story. The Browns are so down to earth and feel like home. I could sympathize with Ms Weist, unlike most main female characters she has to stop and breathe and makes mistakes due to being naïve. She puts herself in danger to save others. Mr Brown is such a great man. He stands up for what he believes in and is willing to fight for it. I will be reading the rest of the books in the series!
August 21, 2025
Not one for period piece mysteries but this reminds me of going back to the Sherlock Holmes days where he solved mysteries. Then again any mystery is a good mystery. The time period is very close to civil war times and could very well be the aftermath of how people survived back then. Harsh winters and doctors who couldn’t use the medicines we have today are often portrayed. Nonetheless I enjoyed this book and hope to enjoy the next Butcher Hill installment.
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 22, 2025
I’m always looking for a new series that hopefully will catch my interest. A historical mystery like this one got me hooked. Phillip Brown finds a woman on his doorstep one freezing morning. The author did a great job character building, which made it easy to connect with them and understand why Phillip decides to help this woman.
I appreciated the world building and look forward to reading future installments.
I appreciated the world building and look forward to reading future installments.
August 4, 2025
This is a great story about Phillip and Virginia, two unlikely people to even associate with each other. When a lady's body is found close to their area, they both, on their own accords, start to investigate. They didn't know how much they'd rely on each other to deal with the threats around every corner!
Such a great start to this series! I look forward to reading more!
Such a great start to this series! I look forward to reading more!
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