What do you think?
Rate this book
The Chambermaid's Key
Not yet published
Expected 21 Apr 26From #1 bestselling author Genevieve Graham, comes a dazzling novel set at an elegant hotel in Toronto in 1929 about a young chambermaid, a handsome waiter, and a murder that will reverberate for a century.
Welcome to the Dominion, where secrets lurk behind every locked door.
1929: Rosie Ryan wants nothing more than to escape the poverty of The Ward, Toronto’s roughest neighbourhood, and become a chambermaid at the brand-new Dominion Hotel. Until she meets Damien, that is—a charming and ambitious waiter who promises her a better life—and adds him to the top of her list. The Dominion offers her a chance to do well, but behind the gleaming chandeliers and polished marble lurk dangerous secrets involving its most notorious guest, a wealthy gangster who’s about to profit from The Crash that will decimate the economy. When a friend is murdered, Rosie finds herself tangled in a web of betrayal—one that just might cost her everything.
Present City building Inspector Bridget Kelly is assigned to scrutinize the recent renovations at the elegant old Dominion Hotel, a task she relishes as a lover of history and architecture, and that gets even better once she starts working with a brilliant and fascinating archivist. But when a routine inspection uncovers mysterious boxes, locked doors, and secret corridors, bringing to light a long-buried clue to a decades-old murder, her inspection is thwarted, and threats rise round her on every side. Bridget soon realizes someone doesn’t want the truth to surface—and they’ll do anything to keep it buried.
Spanning nearly a century, The Chambermaid’s Key is a gripping dual-timeline novel about ambition, betrayal, and the secrets that bind us across generations.
Welcome to the Dominion, where secrets lurk behind every locked door.
1929: Rosie Ryan wants nothing more than to escape the poverty of The Ward, Toronto’s roughest neighbourhood, and become a chambermaid at the brand-new Dominion Hotel. Until she meets Damien, that is—a charming and ambitious waiter who promises her a better life—and adds him to the top of her list. The Dominion offers her a chance to do well, but behind the gleaming chandeliers and polished marble lurk dangerous secrets involving its most notorious guest, a wealthy gangster who’s about to profit from The Crash that will decimate the economy. When a friend is murdered, Rosie finds herself tangled in a web of betrayal—one that just might cost her everything.
Present City building Inspector Bridget Kelly is assigned to scrutinize the recent renovations at the elegant old Dominion Hotel, a task she relishes as a lover of history and architecture, and that gets even better once she starts working with a brilliant and fascinating archivist. But when a routine inspection uncovers mysterious boxes, locked doors, and secret corridors, bringing to light a long-buried clue to a decades-old murder, her inspection is thwarted, and threats rise round her on every side. Bridget soon realizes someone doesn’t want the truth to surface—and they’ll do anything to keep it buried.
Spanning nearly a century, The Chambermaid’s Key is a gripping dual-timeline novel about ambition, betrayal, and the secrets that bind us across generations.
400 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 21, 2026
9 people are currently reading
7012 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This is a mesmerizing story peopled with authentic and well-crafted characters and imbued with a sprinkle of Canadian history. But it’s even more than that - it’s a compelling dual-timeline fused with an exciting mystery that spans almost a century, and it’s held together with exquisite writing. I strongly believe that this is Genevieve Graham’s best writing; it’ll hold a spot in my top reads of 2026.
One of the reasons this is such a winner is Graham’s choice to give her readers direct access to her character’s thoughts and emotions. Being placed inside 18-year-old chambermaid Roisin ‘Rosie’ Ryan’s mind means that readers experience the conditions of The Ward, Toronto’s roughest neighbourhood, and also means that they are cheering Rosie on as she dreams of escaping the poverty…because they live the experience as Rosie. She will be a memorable character for me because of her strong character voice. I could hear Rosie’s lilt in my mind as I read the long, flowing sentences, knowing that she was anxious and excited with what she was experiencing. Graham excelled at showing, not telling.
Another standout feature of this story is the pacing. I was in awe of how long Graham captured my attention. The two timelines dovetailed well, as did the weaving of the romance, history, and mystery. Furthermore, both timelines were equally compelling.
Bridget Kelly is the heroine of the second timeline. She’s a 29-year-old building inspector who has been sent to scrutinize the renovations at the Dominion Hotel. I love her tenacity and would welcome an invitation to sit with her in the newly renovated hotel bar, try one of the many drinks mentioned, and hear about her foils and discoveries. Her sidekick was a wonderful supporting character and I loved how he came to her rescue.
I’m gushing, aren’t I?
If you haven’t already pre-ordered this one, what are you waiting for? Go do it. Now.
Graham’s historical mystery showcases hope, love, ambition, betrayal, and secrets, and is infused with just the perfect amount of humour. Rosie’s innocence is so refreshing. I loved it when she learned about tips! Oh, and the twist that I didn’t see coming at 50%. So good. I finished this masterpiece thinking, like Rosie, how sad it is to seemingly have it all and not have what truly matters.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
One of the reasons this is such a winner is Graham’s choice to give her readers direct access to her character’s thoughts and emotions. Being placed inside 18-year-old chambermaid Roisin ‘Rosie’ Ryan’s mind means that readers experience the conditions of The Ward, Toronto’s roughest neighbourhood, and also means that they are cheering Rosie on as she dreams of escaping the poverty…because they live the experience as Rosie. She will be a memorable character for me because of her strong character voice. I could hear Rosie’s lilt in my mind as I read the long, flowing sentences, knowing that she was anxious and excited with what she was experiencing. Graham excelled at showing, not telling.
Another standout feature of this story is the pacing. I was in awe of how long Graham captured my attention. The two timelines dovetailed well, as did the weaving of the romance, history, and mystery. Furthermore, both timelines were equally compelling.
Bridget Kelly is the heroine of the second timeline. She’s a 29-year-old building inspector who has been sent to scrutinize the renovations at the Dominion Hotel. I love her tenacity and would welcome an invitation to sit with her in the newly renovated hotel bar, try one of the many drinks mentioned, and hear about her foils and discoveries. Her sidekick was a wonderful supporting character and I loved how he came to her rescue.
I’m gushing, aren’t I?
If you haven’t already pre-ordered this one, what are you waiting for? Go do it. Now.
Graham’s historical mystery showcases hope, love, ambition, betrayal, and secrets, and is infused with just the perfect amount of humour. Rosie’s innocence is so refreshing. I loved it when she learned about tips! Oh, and the twist that I didn’t see coming at 50%. So good. I finished this masterpiece thinking, like Rosie, how sad it is to seemingly have it all and not have what truly matters.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 17, 2026
Loved this book! As always Genevieve Graham writes a book I can’t wait to read and can’t put down
Want to read
December 17, 2025More Canadian fiction to arc.
March 28, 2026
Thank you Simon and Schuster Canada and Netgalley for this advanced copy.
4.5 stars
What a neat story. This was great!!
Rosie Ryan is a chambermaid at the Dominion Hotel in 1920’s Toronto. It’s a very prestigious hotel, and she works so hard to keep the job she loves, working at the same place with the person she loves. Until one day when a murder happens at the hotel and the events that follow change her life forever.
Bridget Kelly is a building inspector in 2025 and she is brought in to inspect the Dominion hotel during some renovations, and there is a mystery there she just can’t shake. As she investigates in her own way, she finds herself a lot deeper than she could’ve imagined.
The dual timelines of this story were so lovely. I really enjoyed Rosie Ryan’s POV the most, but I found Bridget’s chapters to be page turners as well.
The characters developed beautifully. I could really feel every emotion as I was invested in each of their stories.
I loved making the connections as the story went on. Between the past and the present. And the ending was just wonderfully written. Let’s just say, tears were shed multiple times in those last chapters.
The mystery aspect of the story was neat. There were certain characters that you really wondered about. As the story progressed, and we got those aha moments, it was so satisfying. I couldn’t put it down in the last half.
This was my first book by Genevieve Graham, and now I know I need to read more of her books.
4.5 stars
What a neat story. This was great!!
Rosie Ryan is a chambermaid at the Dominion Hotel in 1920’s Toronto. It’s a very prestigious hotel, and she works so hard to keep the job she loves, working at the same place with the person she loves. Until one day when a murder happens at the hotel and the events that follow change her life forever.
Bridget Kelly is a building inspector in 2025 and she is brought in to inspect the Dominion hotel during some renovations, and there is a mystery there she just can’t shake. As she investigates in her own way, she finds herself a lot deeper than she could’ve imagined.
The dual timelines of this story were so lovely. I really enjoyed Rosie Ryan’s POV the most, but I found Bridget’s chapters to be page turners as well.
The characters developed beautifully. I could really feel every emotion as I was invested in each of their stories.
I loved making the connections as the story went on. Between the past and the present. And the ending was just wonderfully written. Let’s just say, tears were shed multiple times in those last chapters.
The mystery aspect of the story was neat. There were certain characters that you really wondered about. As the story progressed, and we got those aha moments, it was so satisfying. I couldn’t put it down in the last half.
This was my first book by Genevieve Graham, and now I know I need to read more of her books.
Read
March 19, 20264.5 ⭐️
A long time fan of this Canadian author who unravels historical events with a fictionalized voice. Geneieve Graham always finds a way to make Historical Fiction feel contemporary and less of a slog than other authors. She blends a little romance with the story which makes it feel like a “historical fiction lite” book (for all you readers that find HF too slow- GG books are not).
With her newest book The Chambermaid’s Key, @genevieve finds a mystery to build the story around. A landmark hotel within the growing city of Toronto, full of backstories, generational connections and a chambermaid full of heart.
For me, this was a story to sink into. I have a family friend who worked at The Royal York (aka The Dominon in the book) for decades. He was a bellhop but held many different titles and his life was interesting as you expect with the varying characters and celebrities that walked through those doors.
The prestige of such a hotel in the 1920’s was breathtaking to the areas that surrounded it where people were crammed into small apartments. The contrast felt intentional for the reader, because the experience was to feel what a hotel like that would do for a young woman.
That is until a murder happens and dreams fall apart.
My favourite of the #GeneieveGraham collection is 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱 (𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦- 𝘢 𝟼 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥) , followed closely by 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝘆 but this one is
right up there. Escapism, mystery, love, family, history and loose ends tied up. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗱’𝘀 𝗞𝗲𝘆 was excellent…. I’ve got to see if our family member can find his photos now! Summer project indeed.
Thank you @simon for the gifted arc.
#FlowersFavouriteFiction
#SimonandSchusterCanada
A long time fan of this Canadian author who unravels historical events with a fictionalized voice. Geneieve Graham always finds a way to make Historical Fiction feel contemporary and less of a slog than other authors. She blends a little romance with the story which makes it feel like a “historical fiction lite” book (for all you readers that find HF too slow- GG books are not).
With her newest book The Chambermaid’s Key, @genevieve finds a mystery to build the story around. A landmark hotel within the growing city of Toronto, full of backstories, generational connections and a chambermaid full of heart.
For me, this was a story to sink into. I have a family friend who worked at The Royal York (aka The Dominon in the book) for decades. He was a bellhop but held many different titles and his life was interesting as you expect with the varying characters and celebrities that walked through those doors.
The prestige of such a hotel in the 1920’s was breathtaking to the areas that surrounded it where people were crammed into small apartments. The contrast felt intentional for the reader, because the experience was to feel what a hotel like that would do for a young woman.
That is until a murder happens and dreams fall apart.
My favourite of the #GeneieveGraham collection is 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱 (𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦- 𝘢 𝟼 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥) , followed closely by 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝘆 but this one is
right up there. Escapism, mystery, love, family, history and loose ends tied up. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗱’𝘀 𝗞𝗲𝘆 was excellent…. I’ve got to see if our family member can find his photos now! Summer project indeed.
Thank you @simon for the gifted arc.
#FlowersFavouriteFiction
#SimonandSchusterCanada
February 26, 2026
Thank you for the advanced copy of The Chambermaid's Key. As Genevieve Graham points out in the author's note, it is a much different historical fiction than her past books. It was still very good. A mystery mixed with history is a win in my books. I enjoyed both time-lines equally. It is set in Toronto and I could almost picture it! A definite must-read!
February 19, 2026
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Historical fiction is really not my genre of choice so keep that in mind when reading my review. To be fair, half of this book takes place in 2024 Toronto and the other half takes place in 1920s Toronto, so I did find half of this book to be an interesting read. I gave it a chance because I thought that the familiar setting of Toronto would make me more interested in the plot (and it did). I can’t really articulate why I struggled to get through this book, besides that it’s just not my thing.
Rosie Ryan is a chambermaid in the new Dominion hotel which has opened right before the stock market crash in 1929. She ends up entangled in an organized crime ring and her decisions echo into Bridget Kelly’s life in 2024. Bridget has been hired as the building inspector for the historical Dominion hotel and comes across a web of crime linked with Rosie 100 years ago.
I liked how Bridget’s story was a true mystery, and Rosie’s story filled in the gaps. However I found it lost my interest often and was slightly predictable. This was very well written and I can see a lot of people really enjoying this read, it simply wasn’t for me. The ending was sweet, and this would be a good book for me to recommend to family and friends as it has something for everyone.
Historical fiction is really not my genre of choice so keep that in mind when reading my review. To be fair, half of this book takes place in 2024 Toronto and the other half takes place in 1920s Toronto, so I did find half of this book to be an interesting read. I gave it a chance because I thought that the familiar setting of Toronto would make me more interested in the plot (and it did). I can’t really articulate why I struggled to get through this book, besides that it’s just not my thing.
Rosie Ryan is a chambermaid in the new Dominion hotel which has opened right before the stock market crash in 1929. She ends up entangled in an organized crime ring and her decisions echo into Bridget Kelly’s life in 2024. Bridget has been hired as the building inspector for the historical Dominion hotel and comes across a web of crime linked with Rosie 100 years ago.
I liked how Bridget’s story was a true mystery, and Rosie’s story filled in the gaps. However I found it lost my interest often and was slightly predictable. This was very well written and I can see a lot of people really enjoying this read, it simply wasn’t for me. The ending was sweet, and this would be a good book for me to recommend to family and friends as it has something for everyone.
March 18, 2026
i don’t normally read historical fiction, but the promise of mystery and crime had me intrigued. add on top the fact it’s located in canada, the fairmont royal york hotel served as inspiration, and real canadian history was embedded in, and i was sold.
ultimately though, i don’t think this book is for me. i enjoyed the overall story, but the blurb gave me more of mystery/crime vibes then what was in the actual story. and what was there i felt was rushed. there were some events that felt like a stretch, even for fiction, which took me out of the story. i will say that the author did a great job of building the emotional relationships of some of the characters. that last 30% was really playing on the heartstrings.
this will be a great read for someone looking for a historical fiction with a happy ending and just a pinch of mystery. thank you simon & schuster canada for the advanced copy!
ultimately though, i don’t think this book is for me. i enjoyed the overall story, but the blurb gave me more of mystery/crime vibes then what was in the actual story. and what was there i felt was rushed. there were some events that felt like a stretch, even for fiction, which took me out of the story. i will say that the author did a great job of building the emotional relationships of some of the characters. that last 30% was really playing on the heartstrings.
this will be a great read for someone looking for a historical fiction with a happy ending and just a pinch of mystery. thank you simon & schuster canada for the advanced copy!
March 25, 2026
Genevieve Graham does not disappoint! She puts such emotion into her books that she makes you love every book! Would highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
Canadian historical fiction queen Genevieve Graham is back with another look into our nation's history, and this time it involves a mystery.
Read if...
☑️ You like fiercely independent protagonists
☑️ dual timelines
☑️ Hotel settings
☑️ Toronto, Ontario
☑️ underground tunnels
☑️ locked doors
☑️ whistleblowers
☑️ reunions
☑️ grandmother/granddaughter dynamics
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, as it appeared in 1929 and 2024, is certainly the setting for Graham's tenth novel in the fictional Dominion Hotel (inspired by the Royal York). In 1929, Rosie Ryan is one of the newly hired chambermaids at the new hotel. In 2024, city inspector Bridget Kelly is overseeing renovations at that same hotel. Before too long, both our protagonists will find themselves surrounded by new adventures, a little romance, and a little bit of intrigue.
First, I want to congratulate the author on taking a risk with her latest novel. I don't believe that I have experienced many historical mysteries set in Canada, and so it was a real treat. Second, when I read the synopsis of the novel late last year, I wasn't sure I would be as invested in the story as I became. I give credit to the extensive historical research that Genevieve Graham weaves into her storyline. I learned a lot about Toronto's history, and it was clear that the city is dear to the author's heart. A subject which she gives even further detail in her author's note, it is the place of her upbringing. Both Rosie and Bridget were likeable characters, and I cannot say that I preferred one storyline over the other. Honestly, I enjoyed them both. I found it interesting how Graham incorporates into Bridget's story the very topical issue of how much Toronto has changed and raises the question, "Is it the right kind of progress?" Fascinating!
If you enjoy Canadian history, as I do, then check out The Chambermaid's Key when it hits bookstores on April 21st!
Expected Publication 21/04/26
Goodreads Review 28/03/26
Canadian historical fiction queen Genevieve Graham is back with another look into our nation's history, and this time it involves a mystery.
Read if...
☑️ You like fiercely independent protagonists
☑️ dual timelines
☑️ Hotel settings
☑️ Toronto, Ontario
☑️ underground tunnels
☑️ locked doors
☑️ whistleblowers
☑️ reunions
☑️ grandmother/granddaughter dynamics
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, as it appeared in 1929 and 2024, is certainly the setting for Graham's tenth novel in the fictional Dominion Hotel (inspired by the Royal York). In 1929, Rosie Ryan is one of the newly hired chambermaids at the new hotel. In 2024, city inspector Bridget Kelly is overseeing renovations at that same hotel. Before too long, both our protagonists will find themselves surrounded by new adventures, a little romance, and a little bit of intrigue.
First, I want to congratulate the author on taking a risk with her latest novel. I don't believe that I have experienced many historical mysteries set in Canada, and so it was a real treat. Second, when I read the synopsis of the novel late last year, I wasn't sure I would be as invested in the story as I became. I give credit to the extensive historical research that Genevieve Graham weaves into her storyline. I learned a lot about Toronto's history, and it was clear that the city is dear to the author's heart. A subject which she gives even further detail in her author's note, it is the place of her upbringing. Both Rosie and Bridget were likeable characters, and I cannot say that I preferred one storyline over the other. Honestly, I enjoyed them both. I found it interesting how Graham incorporates into Bridget's story the very topical issue of how much Toronto has changed and raises the question, "Is it the right kind of progress?" Fascinating!
If you enjoy Canadian history, as I do, then check out The Chambermaid's Key when it hits bookstores on April 21st!
Expected Publication 21/04/26
Goodreads Review 28/03/26
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This just may be a favorite of 2026! If you are planning a trip to Toronto in the near future, this is definitely one to read before you go. Or even better, plan to stay at the York hotel so you can read it there where you will be in the middle of it all.
Written as a dual timeline, you have the story of Rosie Ryan a chambermaid at the newly built Dominion (fashioned after the York) and set in the 20's right at the time of the stock market crash of 1929. Rosie an young Irish woman comes from the Ward, an area of Toronto where new immigrants often first came to. Rosie has dreams that her new job will be her way out of poverty.
The other timeline is set more recently and Bridget Kelly is a building inspector tasked with following the renovations taking place at the Dominion hotel. Kelly is a fan of the history of the hotel and she follows a mystery that connects back to the earliest days of the hotel, when Rosie would have been a chambermaid there.
There is romance, mystery, some gangsters and a whole lot of interesting information about Toronto and downtown area. I wish I would have known that the last time I stayed at the Sheraton Downtown, I was right in the area where Rosie would have been living, just a walk away from the hotel she was so excited to work in, and the Union train station that brought the visitors to her hotel.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for the ARC.
Written as a dual timeline, you have the story of Rosie Ryan a chambermaid at the newly built Dominion (fashioned after the York) and set in the 20's right at the time of the stock market crash of 1929. Rosie an young Irish woman comes from the Ward, an area of Toronto where new immigrants often first came to. Rosie has dreams that her new job will be her way out of poverty.
The other timeline is set more recently and Bridget Kelly is a building inspector tasked with following the renovations taking place at the Dominion hotel. Kelly is a fan of the history of the hotel and she follows a mystery that connects back to the earliest days of the hotel, when Rosie would have been a chambermaid there.
There is romance, mystery, some gangsters and a whole lot of interesting information about Toronto and downtown area. I wish I would have known that the last time I stayed at the Sheraton Downtown, I was right in the area where Rosie would have been living, just a walk away from the hotel she was so excited to work in, and the Union train station that brought the visitors to her hotel.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Genevieve Graham’s newest release reads like a Kate Morton book!
It’s such a different approach, but no less packed with historical detail I’ve come to expect when reading one of her books. This time, it’s not so much a Canadian historical event that pulls readers in, but an iconic building – the Royal York Hotel in downtown Toronto.
In this particular story, the Royal York is the inspiration for the fictional Dominion Hotel that opens in 1929 just before the stock market crash. Readers are immersed in the world of riches, and exposed to the sharp contrast of labourers working in the Ward. It’s a story of the haves and have nots; of family and friendship; of lies and deceptions. No one is really who they appear to be.
And of course, what’s a story set in the late twenties/early thirties without the Italian mafia?
The story moves between the Toronto of 2024 and the Toronto of 1929, where renovations are being done to the Dominion hotel. But there’s an interesting subplot of sabotage and backroom deals in modern-day Toronto. And in the end, clever connections are made between the two storylines.
Characters are interesting in both timelines.
If you enjoy reading stories by Kate Morton, give The Chambermaid’s Key a try!
I received an ecopy from Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
It’s such a different approach, but no less packed with historical detail I’ve come to expect when reading one of her books. This time, it’s not so much a Canadian historical event that pulls readers in, but an iconic building – the Royal York Hotel in downtown Toronto.
In this particular story, the Royal York is the inspiration for the fictional Dominion Hotel that opens in 1929 just before the stock market crash. Readers are immersed in the world of riches, and exposed to the sharp contrast of labourers working in the Ward. It’s a story of the haves and have nots; of family and friendship; of lies and deceptions. No one is really who they appear to be.
And of course, what’s a story set in the late twenties/early thirties without the Italian mafia?
The story moves between the Toronto of 2024 and the Toronto of 1929, where renovations are being done to the Dominion hotel. But there’s an interesting subplot of sabotage and backroom deals in modern-day Toronto. And in the end, clever connections are made between the two storylines.
Characters are interesting in both timelines.
If you enjoy reading stories by Kate Morton, give The Chambermaid’s Key a try!
I received an ecopy from Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
When “just one more chapter” turns into 24 chapters later. I devoured the digital advanced readers copy of Genevieve Graham’s latest ‘The Chambermaid’s Key’ in less than 24 hours and give it a solid 💜💜💜💜💜. I was enthralled from the beginning. I am a longtime fan of Genevieve Graham and this may just be my favourite yet. The mix of historical fiction and mystery were exquisitely executed and each swap from 1929 to 2024 found me holding my breath and wishing for me. What an eclectic mix of characters with just enough fiction to remind you it’s a story and not reality but also enough humility to have me grasping for Kleenex to cover the sobs. And as any good historical fiction should, I found myself deep diving into the history of Toronto’s “Ward” as well as visual photos of the hotels inspiration. This was an excellent start to the 2026 reading season and an absolute must read upon its release in April. Thank you to @netgalley, @simonschusterca and @gengrahamauthor for the phenomenal novel. “In your life, it’s important you have the hindsight to know where you’ve been, the foresight to know where you are going, and the insight to know when you have gone.”
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Genevieve Graham is a Canadian author whose main genre is historical fiction set in Canada. The Chambermaid's Key is a bit of a departure because while there is still a historical aspect, the story also has some mystery to it.
The Chambermaid's Key held me captive from beginning to end. I flew through this book in a few days. I enjoy reading about places I know, history fascinates me, and I love a good mystery. The Chambermaid's Key had all of those things.
The Chambermaid's Key is told over multiple timelines, with one storyline set in 1929 and the other in 2024. The story, both past and present centers around a hotel in Toronto, the Dominion. While not called the Dominion in real life, I absolutely recognize this hotel and have stayed there. Visiting the Library Bar and taking the underground path, and listening out for the ghosts the hotel is rumored to be haunted by. This setting is perfect for this story adding to the mystery and intrigue of it.
Often times I favour one POV over another in dual POV stories, but in the case of this story the two timelines were both fascinating. As the characters in the present are uncovering a mystery and learning about the past, we as readers, are experiencing the past time frame they are investigating.
Overall, this was an incredibly well written and engaging historical mystery.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for the advanced digital copy of this book.
The Chambermaid's Key held me captive from beginning to end. I flew through this book in a few days. I enjoy reading about places I know, history fascinates me, and I love a good mystery. The Chambermaid's Key had all of those things.
The Chambermaid's Key is told over multiple timelines, with one storyline set in 1929 and the other in 2024. The story, both past and present centers around a hotel in Toronto, the Dominion. While not called the Dominion in real life, I absolutely recognize this hotel and have stayed there. Visiting the Library Bar and taking the underground path, and listening out for the ghosts the hotel is rumored to be haunted by. This setting is perfect for this story adding to the mystery and intrigue of it.
Often times I favour one POV over another in dual POV stories, but in the case of this story the two timelines were both fascinating. As the characters in the present are uncovering a mystery and learning about the past, we as readers, are experiencing the past time frame they are investigating.
Overall, this was an incredibly well written and engaging historical mystery.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for the advanced digital copy of this book.
March 20, 2026
💕 I loved this book. From start to finish, I was mesmerised by Rosie and The Dominion. I’ve actually stayed at the Royal York and pass by it on occasion. It’s grand and elegant. I watched it being built through Rosie’s eyes. A young girl from the Ward, with nothing to her name - entranced by the luxury of the building and its people.
Rosie’s relationships with the people around her were exquisitely written. Deep and emotional. They weren’t just people in a story. You knew what they meant to her and how she felt about them. Whether that be her grandmother, Bianca, Mrs.Evans, Mr. Carboni or Damien. This even extended to lesser characters within the story. If they were meaningful to her in some way, we knew about it.
I adore stories with dual timelines - connected, yet , in this case, almost 100 years apart. I’ll admit, I am ambivalent to Bridge’s character, but I absolutely adore Matthew. Bright, meticulous, and admirable. The dual timelines come together beautifully. Claudia’s story ends abruptly but that’s okay. Because she’s not the focus of the story. And I’m okay with that.
This is Rosie and Bridget’s story, and with that, there is intrigue and emotion. Mystery and loss. Fear and immense joy. Altogether beautifully written.
ARC Read 16Mar2026
Rosie’s relationships with the people around her were exquisitely written. Deep and emotional. They weren’t just people in a story. You knew what they meant to her and how she felt about them. Whether that be her grandmother, Bianca, Mrs.Evans, Mr. Carboni or Damien. This even extended to lesser characters within the story. If they were meaningful to her in some way, we knew about it.
I adore stories with dual timelines - connected, yet , in this case, almost 100 years apart. I’ll admit, I am ambivalent to Bridge’s character, but I absolutely adore Matthew. Bright, meticulous, and admirable. The dual timelines come together beautifully. Claudia’s story ends abruptly but that’s okay. Because she’s not the focus of the story. And I’m okay with that.
This is Rosie and Bridget’s story, and with that, there is intrigue and emotion. Mystery and loss. Fear and immense joy. Altogether beautifully written.
ARC Read 16Mar2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Chambermaid’s Key by Genevieve Graham is likely my favorite of her novels so far. It steps slightly outside her usual style, blending rich historical fiction with an engaging mystery—and it works beautifully.
Set in Toronto, the story unfolds across a dual timeline, shifting between 1929 and the present day. In 1929, Rosie Ryan is a chambermaid at the newly opened Dominion Hotel who unexpectedly becomes entangled in an organized crime ring. In the present, Bridget, a building inspector, is working at the same hotel—uncovering connections to the past that slowly unravel into a compelling mystery.
This novel truly has something for everyone: history, suspense, romance, and themes of loss and forgiveness. The way the past and present intertwine keeps you hooked right to the end.
I highly recommend this book to a wide range of readers—it’s a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for the advanced copy.
Set in Toronto, the story unfolds across a dual timeline, shifting between 1929 and the present day. In 1929, Rosie Ryan is a chambermaid at the newly opened Dominion Hotel who unexpectedly becomes entangled in an organized crime ring. In the present, Bridget, a building inspector, is working at the same hotel—uncovering connections to the past that slowly unravel into a compelling mystery.
This novel truly has something for everyone: history, suspense, romance, and themes of loss and forgiveness. The way the past and present intertwine keeps you hooked right to the end.
I highly recommend this book to a wide range of readers—it’s a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for the advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Genevieve Graham NEVER disappoints and with this latest one she leans into the mystery/suspense genre to add an extra element to her Canadian history fiction love story. The Chambermaid's key has something for everyone - there's a heartbreaking love story, a moving intergenerational coming of age story and a feel good women's fiction wmystery story.
Full of suspense, action and heartbreaking romance, this was great for anyone who loves a love story that has lots of action, mystery and suspense. There was mob connections, hold Toronto architectural history and an utterly moving intergenerational family history story. 10/10 recommended and so grateful to have gotten an early copy by one of my favorite author's newest books!!
Full of suspense, action and heartbreaking romance, this was great for anyone who loves a love story that has lots of action, mystery and suspense. There was mob connections, hold Toronto architectural history and an utterly moving intergenerational family history story. 10/10 recommended and so grateful to have gotten an early copy by one of my favorite author's newest books!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you so much for the advanced copy—what a treat!
I’m a longtime fan of Genevieve Graham, so I went in with high expectations, and while this one felt a little different from her usual style at first, it didn’t take long to completely settle in. Once I did, I was fully swept up in the story.
Set against the backdrop of 1930, as the stock market begins to unravel, the atmosphere of the hotel adds such a compelling layer of mystery. Paired with a heartfelt love story, it creates a reading experience that’s both engaging and immersive.
While it leans more toward a lighter, entertaining tone compared to her more traditional historical fiction, it’s still incredibly satisfying. A fun, captivating read that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish.
I’m a longtime fan of Genevieve Graham, so I went in with high expectations, and while this one felt a little different from her usual style at first, it didn’t take long to completely settle in. Once I did, I was fully swept up in the story.
Set against the backdrop of 1930, as the stock market begins to unravel, the atmosphere of the hotel adds such a compelling layer of mystery. Paired with a heartfelt love story, it creates a reading experience that’s both engaging and immersive.
While it leans more toward a lighter, entertaining tone compared to her more traditional historical fiction, it’s still incredibly satisfying. A fun, captivating read that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have been a fan of this author for quite some time, and honestly, she just gets better and better. The dual timeline (present day and the tail end of the Roaring Twenties) had everything necessary to keep me enthralled - a murder mystery, gangsters, hidden tunnels, and even a bit of romance. The historical details around "The Ward" area of Toronto was new to me, and extremely interesting. I was sad when it was over, and I keep thinking about the characters. Well done, Ms. Graham! I'll keep reading whatever you write. Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance reading copy.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
What a wonderful story of several generations of women who make up a family. When the Ryan family immigrated from Ireland their family stories came with them and are passed to the next generation. Rosie Ryan starts as a chambermaid in 1929 right before the crash of the stock market. She thinks the Dominion Hotel in Toronto is her ticket to escape the poverty of her neighborhood. She meets Damian and falls in love. The story moves to present day and Bridget Kelly comes to the Dominion to inspect the renovations of the historic hotel so it can reopen. When she discovers a body someone wants the mystery to remain unsolved. Can a 100 year old woman help solve the mystery?
Read
January 19, 2026Yeah yeah. Big deal. It’s a mystery - something different for Ms. Graham.
No matter - it still reads the same as every other Genevieve Graham general historical fiction novel.
Just because it’s grounded in real historical Toronto is not good enough to make up for it being totally trope and then let’s talk about the oh so mediocre writing.
This is completely inter-changeable with any other similar title published by this author.
Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for granting me access to an early digital review copy.
DNF
No matter - it still reads the same as every other Genevieve Graham general historical fiction novel.
Just because it’s grounded in real historical Toronto is not good enough to make up for it being totally trope and then let’s talk about the oh so mediocre writing.
This is completely inter-changeable with any other similar title published by this author.
Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for granting me access to an early digital review copy.
DNF
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
For me, every Genevieve book is a hit! I enjoy her books so much. Can’t believe I have to wait a year for another one!!!!!❤️
Passing the Royal York everyday on my way to and from work, i’m aware of the history that it folds. I love how Genevieve adds a layer of history to my knowledge with this fascinating story. Although the book is fiction and the events didn’t happen, the environment in which they happened were made all too real by the history, she wove into the story. I love learning about Toronto history, and hope you will write more!
Passing the Royal York everyday on my way to and from work, i’m aware of the history that it folds. I love how Genevieve adds a layer of history to my knowledge with this fascinating story. Although the book is fiction and the events didn’t happen, the environment in which they happened were made all too real by the history, she wove into the story. I love learning about Toronto history, and hope you will write more!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
My poor heart couldn't take it!
I went in blind for this, and that was the best decision I could've made. Once I was fully absorbed, I was hooked!
I liked how Rosie's POV was written in 1920s english and then present day, in modern English. It really helped distinguish the two stories and give each character their own unique voice.
I do feel like Bridget's mystery was wrapped a little too quickly and easily. But her story is almost secondary to Rosie's. In a way, Bridget's life mirrors Rosie. (Thankfully) with a happier outcome.
I went in blind for this, and that was the best decision I could've made. Once I was fully absorbed, I was hooked!
I liked how Rosie's POV was written in 1920s english and then present day, in modern English. It really helped distinguish the two stories and give each character their own unique voice.
I do feel like Bridget's mystery was wrapped a little too quickly and easily. But her story is almost secondary to Rosie's. In a way, Bridget's life mirrors Rosie. (Thankfully) with a happier outcome.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an advance copy of this book from Simon & Schuster. I have been in the lobby of the hotel that this book is based on and this was so fun for me to read to picture myself in those rooms of the hotel and in the lobby and basement both in the past and in the present. I loved the description of the hotel and the surrounding area. This book was such a lovely book to read I was able to feel the energy of the characters both in the past and present. I really enjoyed this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley, Simon & Schuster Canada and the author Genevieve Graham.
I read everything novel written by this author and she never disappoints.
Set in Toronto, dual timeline
Rosie Ryan 1929 Chambermaid at the Dominion Hotel
Bridget Kelly, present day, building inspector at the Dominion Hotel.
How their two lives intertwined a century apart was very interesting,
I could not put this novel down.
Highly recommend.
5 stars
I read everything novel written by this author and she never disappoints.
Set in Toronto, dual timeline
Rosie Ryan 1929 Chambermaid at the Dominion Hotel
Bridget Kelly, present day, building inspector at the Dominion Hotel.
How their two lives intertwined a century apart was very interesting,
I could not put this novel down.
Highly recommend.
5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A charming and cozy novel that will draw you in and entertain you from page 1 until the very end; a pleasant mix of romance, history, and intrigue- I'm a big fan of Genevieve Graham and read everything she writes. Love the Canadian content and learning about new aspects of our nation's growth. The characters are delightful; the relationships are heartwarming; the dual timeline and connections were perfectly satisfying. Can't wait to see what she writes next!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoy the world-building in Graham's books. Especially when it's based on a place I've been (downtown Toronto). The mystery kept me interested and the characters - had they been real - could easily have crossed paths with my great-grandparents.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews