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Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency #0.5
Undercover Wish: A Sweet Gilded Age Historical Romantic Mystery
Wealth is but an illusion, hers to wield and his to escape.
CHICAGO, Ill., 1892—Stunt reporter Ali Di Stasio will risk anything to expose the truth and protect her fellow orphans, including rummaging through trash bins and putting herself in the crosshairs of the dangerous elite. After living on the streets, she knows every corner of her city, which means she can stay one step ahead of the cops, the powerful men who'd love to silence her before she can reveal their secrets, and the occasional wealthy bachelor wandering through her alleyways, lost and in danger of being mugged.
Griff Moorland, heir-apparent to his father's shipping enterprise, is summoned home to Chicago's wealthiest neighborhood for one marriage. Worse, his choices are to marry the conniving daughter of his father's business partner or an heiress with a sizable dowry. If he doesn't comply before the contract to bring in steel for the Columbian Exposition ends? His ailing mother will be stranded across an ocean, homeless.
Caught between keeping his mother alive and his father's questionable business practices, Griff needs a way out of the bind his father has put him in. When Ali swoops in like a knight in shining armor, she insists the pen is mightier than a sword. But with the Chicago World's Fair fast approaching, sinister forces conspire against them. Will love prove only a mirage, or will it be strong enough to set them free?
La Verità con Integrità. Truth with Integrity. The Legacy of a (Girl) Stunt Reporter.
A Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency origin story and a retelling of Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.
Fans of Danielle Grandinetti’s 1930s historical romance will enjoy Undercover Wish, the prequel that introduces the founder of the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency and bridges Harbored in Crow's Nest with this new series.
Read the Whole Series
1892 - Undercover Wish
Book 1: 1931 - Eyewitness Sketch
Book 2: 1932 - Sabotage Games
Book 3: 1932 - Shrouded Trail
Book 4: 1933 - Fraudulent Progress
Book 5: 1935 - Pursuing Dust
Book 6: 1936 - Hostile Ally
CHICAGO, Ill., 1892—Stunt reporter Ali Di Stasio will risk anything to expose the truth and protect her fellow orphans, including rummaging through trash bins and putting herself in the crosshairs of the dangerous elite. After living on the streets, she knows every corner of her city, which means she can stay one step ahead of the cops, the powerful men who'd love to silence her before she can reveal their secrets, and the occasional wealthy bachelor wandering through her alleyways, lost and in danger of being mugged.
Griff Moorland, heir-apparent to his father's shipping enterprise, is summoned home to Chicago's wealthiest neighborhood for one marriage. Worse, his choices are to marry the conniving daughter of his father's business partner or an heiress with a sizable dowry. If he doesn't comply before the contract to bring in steel for the Columbian Exposition ends? His ailing mother will be stranded across an ocean, homeless.
Caught between keeping his mother alive and his father's questionable business practices, Griff needs a way out of the bind his father has put him in. When Ali swoops in like a knight in shining armor, she insists the pen is mightier than a sword. But with the Chicago World's Fair fast approaching, sinister forces conspire against them. Will love prove only a mirage, or will it be strong enough to set them free?
La Verità con Integrità. Truth with Integrity. The Legacy of a (Girl) Stunt Reporter.
A Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency origin story and a retelling of Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.
Fans of Danielle Grandinetti’s 1930s historical romance will enjoy Undercover Wish, the prequel that introduces the founder of the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency and bridges Harbored in Crow's Nest with this new series.
Read the Whole Series
1892 - Undercover Wish
Book 1: 1931 - Eyewitness Sketch
Book 2: 1932 - Sabotage Games
Book 3: 1932 - Shrouded Trail
Book 4: 1933 - Fraudulent Progress
Book 5: 1935 - Pursuing Dust
Book 6: 1936 - Hostile Ally
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2026
2 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Grandinetti
29 books644 followersDanielle Grandinetti writes both historical romantic suspense and contemporary sweet romance. She is an avid reader and her writing has won the University of Northwestern Distinguished Faith in Writing Award. Originally from the Chicagoland area, she now lives along Lake Michigan’s Wisconsin shoreline with her husband and their two young sons. Find her online at daniellegrandinetti.com.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 13, 2026
Totally a 5 star read! Wow, just wow! If I had all the other books in print, I would hop right into them. This was wonderful!
Griff is an heir being forced to marry by his father. Ali is an orphan and undercover reporter. When a chance encounter leads to an alliance between them, neither could have guessed the sparks that would fly. But with Griff being tricked into marriage, his father hiding lies, and the family company’s books not adding up, there are a lot of questions Griff needs answered. Ali also needs to uncover similar truths, as the orphanage is threatened, putting the livelihood of those who need help most at risk. And if it helps keep Griff from marrying, that would also be a benefit. What’s truly behind Griff’s family’s business dealings, and can they save the orphanage and continue to help those in need? Perhaps together…
These two were a breath of fresh air... instant chemistry and just so much fun to watch. The heart behind the two of them was admirable. I was rooting for them all along and just waiting for the corrupt people in the story to finally meet their match!
A wonderful start to the series!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Griff is an heir being forced to marry by his father. Ali is an orphan and undercover reporter. When a chance encounter leads to an alliance between them, neither could have guessed the sparks that would fly. But with Griff being tricked into marriage, his father hiding lies, and the family company’s books not adding up, there are a lot of questions Griff needs answered. Ali also needs to uncover similar truths, as the orphanage is threatened, putting the livelihood of those who need help most at risk. And if it helps keep Griff from marrying, that would also be a benefit. What’s truly behind Griff’s family’s business dealings, and can they save the orphanage and continue to help those in need? Perhaps together…
These two were a breath of fresh air... instant chemistry and just so much fun to watch. The heart behind the two of them was admirable. I was rooting for them all along and just waiting for the corrupt people in the story to finally meet their match!
A wonderful start to the series!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
February 10, 2026
Inspired by Aladdin and the Magic Lamp, this story takes place in 1890 during the construction of the Columbian Exhibition in Chicago. It has a solid faith thread infused in the story.
Ali De Stasio is a journalist who works undercover. She is hot on a story but needs evidence in order to expose corruption and proof in order to submit the story for publication.
While in disguise, she encounters Griffeth Moorland, the son of the rich businessman who heads the construction company building the venues for the Exhibition. Griff has already sensed something is not quite right in his father’s company. Griff and Ali team up to face danger and intrigue as they search for the truth. Cupid strikes along the way in this informative look back in history.
I grew up in a Chicago suburb and relished the history of the Fair. It always amazed me that most of the buildings were torn down after the Exhibition. I visited several of the few that were still standing. It must have been a fascinating time to live in.
This was a wonderful start to a new series. It is sure to be a favorite for those interested in Chicago history.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Hearth Spot Books. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Ali De Stasio is a journalist who works undercover. She is hot on a story but needs evidence in order to expose corruption and proof in order to submit the story for publication.
While in disguise, she encounters Griffeth Moorland, the son of the rich businessman who heads the construction company building the venues for the Exhibition. Griff has already sensed something is not quite right in his father’s company. Griff and Ali team up to face danger and intrigue as they search for the truth. Cupid strikes along the way in this informative look back in history.
I grew up in a Chicago suburb and relished the history of the Fair. It always amazed me that most of the buildings were torn down after the Exhibition. I visited several of the few that were still standing. It must have been a fascinating time to live in.
This was a wonderful start to a new series. It is sure to be a favorite for those interested in Chicago history.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Hearth Spot Books. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
February 21, 2026
This prequel novella is such a great setup for this new series! I love Ali’s spunky personality and passion for storytelling! This is such a sweet historical romance with hints of mystery and suspense. One of the best novellas I’ve read in a while! I loved the epilogue and seeing how the Di Stasio Agency starts up! This book is also a fairytale retelling of Aladdin! So fun. Can’t wait to see the historical stories in the next books! Grandinetti always does an amazing job seamlessly weaving history and fiction.
I received a copy from the author through justreadtours to read and honestly review. All opinions are mine and mine alone.
I received a copy from the author through justreadtours to read and honestly review. All opinions are mine and mine alone.
February 21, 2026
I couldn't have asked for a more relevant story and character arc as this book and the main character Ali. She was an orphaned Italian immigrant in 1892 Chicago. Her home is the family she has at the orphanage where she was raised, and her passion in life is going after those that are hurting people.
She constantly puts her life in danger sneaking around in the shadows to expose the filthy underbelly of child labor and abuses. Her heart of gold is inspiring and well represented. The support system she has is amazing as well - from the nuns at the orphanage, to the nearby Priest and then twin sisters who all pitch in to help her mission.
The twist in the story is that one of the richest families in the area is under suspicion for underhanded dealings and the prodigal son has just returned from England. Ali wants to investigate Griff's family, but quickly realizes that Griff is also suspicious of what his father has been up to while he's been gone.
Working together, they reveal all dark secrets that are going on and establish themselves. Both characters are driven by their desire to help others that can't help themselves. Even though Ali and Griff come from different backgrounds, they are drawn to one another in their shared passion of helping others.
A story about immigrant injustices, standing up for those without a voice, and being true to yourself are all core messages throughout this story. I loved it so much!
She constantly puts her life in danger sneaking around in the shadows to expose the filthy underbelly of child labor and abuses. Her heart of gold is inspiring and well represented. The support system she has is amazing as well - from the nuns at the orphanage, to the nearby Priest and then twin sisters who all pitch in to help her mission.
The twist in the story is that one of the richest families in the area is under suspicion for underhanded dealings and the prodigal son has just returned from England. Ali wants to investigate Griff's family, but quickly realizes that Griff is also suspicious of what his father has been up to while he's been gone.
Working together, they reveal all dark secrets that are going on and establish themselves. Both characters are driven by their desire to help others that can't help themselves. Even though Ali and Griff come from different backgrounds, they are drawn to one another in their shared passion of helping others.
A story about immigrant injustices, standing up for those without a voice, and being true to yourself are all core messages throughout this story. I loved it so much!
February 14, 2026
I loved this Aladdin (with a twist) retelling, especially the genies. They might have been my favorite introduction of a character. Plus, it was nice to see that the strong female lead wasn't written as a woman who didn't allow a man to help or save her. Instead, she's a strong woman who respects a gentleman. For a romance, that was a relief. Instead of characters being jerks, Ali and Griff appreciate each other's skills and work as a team. As the prequel of a new series, Danielle Grandinetti set a high bar for this venture.
I received a free copy of this book, but the thoughts and ideas in this review are my own.
I received a free copy of this book, but the thoughts and ideas in this review are my own.
March 4, 2026
What a fantastic start to what I’m sure is going to be an incredible series. I love how this story had a fresh and different feel to it. The characters are refreshing and engaging and the setting has an air of mystery. My excitement for what’s to come is off the charts!
I was instantly charmed by the era and mysterious aura of this novella. Danielle does an amazing job of setting the mood and the imagery of gritty Chicago in the late 1800’s is palpable. When I realized that this story was an Aladdin-inspired retelling it was clear why I loved this story. Aladdin still to this day is one of my favorite movies.
What really made me sad while I was reading was the fact that our country has been built on the backs of laborers who have dealt with so much just to survive and generations having nothing to show for it. This greed continues to this day and the line about money hiding corruption still aptly applies.
With such a strong start it is clear the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency series is going to be a winner. I’m already in love!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
I was instantly charmed by the era and mysterious aura of this novella. Danielle does an amazing job of setting the mood and the imagery of gritty Chicago in the late 1800’s is palpable. When I realized that this story was an Aladdin-inspired retelling it was clear why I loved this story. Aladdin still to this day is one of my favorite movies.
What really made me sad while I was reading was the fact that our country has been built on the backs of laborers who have dealt with so much just to survive and generations having nothing to show for it. This greed continues to this day and the line about money hiding corruption still aptly applies.
With such a strong start it is clear the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency series is going to be a winner. I’m already in love!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Griff Moorland has been summoned home to Chicago from England for an arranged marriage. Griff wants no part of this since his intended is not a nice person. Griff wants to marry for love and has to dodge several planned parties to keep out of her hands. Ali Di Stasio is an orphan turned reporter who knows lots of secrets on rich men and their behind-the-scenes schemes. Ali knows the city of Chicago really well and needs to use her knowledge and wiles several times to avoid the police. She has a secret ally who helps deflect the police and others. Follow Griff and Ali's story through some scary and dangerous trips while trying to outsmart the intended fiancé and her father. You will be very surprised by the twists and turns of this story. Highly recommend if you like historical mystery. I was given an advance copy of this book by the publisher but these are my own words and thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Alessandra Di Stasio lost everything in the great Chicago fire and has spent the years living at the Orphanage at St Marks. No hat she is a duly, her time is spent scraping together funds to live on. Her method of choice is to give news to her contact at the Chicago Tribune, since a female reporter was deemed unacceptable.
This is a wonderful retelling of the fairytale Aladdin and the Magic Lamp. It is, however, an upside down version and one I know you will greatly enjoy. The Misses Jefferson, Griff Moorland, Sister Filomena and Ali will give you a story to remember. This early copy of the beginning of the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency was received through Hearth Spot Press and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
This is a wonderful retelling of the fairytale Aladdin and the Magic Lamp. It is, however, an upside down version and one I know you will greatly enjoy. The Misses Jefferson, Griff Moorland, Sister Filomena and Ali will give you a story to remember. This early copy of the beginning of the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency was received through Hearth Spot Press and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
February 15, 2026
1892, Chicago, Ill- Alessandra Di Stasio is working undercover to provide her newspaper contact information regarding the orphans working for shopkeepers and the abuse they are enduring. Alessandra, an orphan herself, grew up in St. Mark's Girls Orphanage.
Alessandra, called Ali, is resilient, cunning, and very determined to keep investigating. That is until someone from her past complicates things. Griff, with money and connections, finds himself involved with Ali.
The story is unique, with lots of twists, and danger. There is sadness, but then the ending wraps everything up nicely, solving the crimes. The budding romance adds to the story and was unexpected. A great read in the series.
Alessandra, called Ali, is resilient, cunning, and very determined to keep investigating. That is until someone from her past complicates things. Griff, with money and connections, finds himself involved with Ali.
The story is unique, with lots of twists, and danger. There is sadness, but then the ending wraps everything up nicely, solving the crimes. The budding romance adds to the story and was unexpected. A great read in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun read!! Quick and charming, just like its heroine. Ali is a real treat—a lovely blend of wit and grit—and Grandinetti does a fabulous job bringing her to life. I'm sometimes wary of "feisty" or "spunky" heroines, but Ali is just awesome. I was rooting for her and grinning with her. (I also love all the Italian words she sprinkles in :D). Perhaps the only thing I loved more than Ali was... the Misses Jefferson. *star-and-heart-eye emojis* They are amazing, and I hope we get to see more of them in the upcoming books in this series. Would read many books about just them, too, tbh.
February 13, 2026
4.5 stars
This is a really good Christian historical romance novella. I enjoyed getting an intro to this series and I’m looking forward to reading more. It was cool to see the beginnings of the Di Stasio Agency and its founders. Ali is an orphan who investigates things and helps people. Griff is the son of a wealthy man. Together they end up investigating his father’s business and are out in danger. This book had sweet romance, found family, and more. It was a quick read that left you excited for more. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received a copy of this book via Just Read Tours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This is a really good Christian historical romance novella. I enjoyed getting an intro to this series and I’m looking forward to reading more. It was cool to see the beginnings of the Di Stasio Agency and its founders. Ali is an orphan who investigates things and helps people. Griff is the son of a wealthy man. Together they end up investigating his father’s business and are out in danger. This book had sweet romance, found family, and more. It was a quick read that left you excited for more. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I received a copy of this book via Just Read Tours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 5, 2026
I must say as someone who discovered the lovely stories of this author last year I am very impressed. Danielle has a wonderful talent of crafting short stories that turn out to be the best plot you have ever read. these stories range from frontier love stories to 1930's mysteries. these stories will find a way into your heart and the fact that she publishes so many in a year you will always have reading material. I loved this story because it features a female reporter who will stop at nothing to get the truth. I will say a very job well done.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher all opinions are of my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher all opinions are of my own.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Ali is a reporter who goes undercover to help children in Chicago. Griffith is back home to see his father who is wanting him to get married quickly. Both Ali and Griffith meet each other after he follows her leaving his home. Ali is on a mission to find out why Griffiths fathers no longer wants to support the orphanage and what he is really doing. Griffith mother has been supporting the orphanage and wants to help Ali find out what's going on. There is much that happens in this book. I was given a copy of the book by the author. All thoughts are my own.
February 11, 2026
Reading this prequel novella makes me even more excited for the Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency series! I flew through it. The characters are so well-written, and the story keeps you guessing. I loved the Misses Jeffersons especially! There are humorous, heartwarming, and teary moments...the perfect balance. I can't wait for more!
February 15, 2026
Loved it
I love old stories about Chicago. The setting always so Interesting and filled with history and fiction.
The romance and suspense are well balanced and kept me reading. I look forward to the rest of this series and recommend all books by this author.
I love old stories about Chicago. The setting always so Interesting and filled with history and fiction.
The romance and suspense are well balanced and kept me reading. I look forward to the rest of this series and recommend all books by this author.
February 20, 2026
Compelling story with mystery, history, romance and wonderful characters. Explore Chicago in the 1890's, filled with corruption, mistreatment of immigrants and children, and poverty. Faith, inspiration and the fight for justice included. Definitely worth the read!
January 28, 2026
Travel to the underbelly of Chicago society during the time of the Chicago World’s fair.
I enjoyed this fast paced novella - it was a short read but was filled with likable characters, adventure, and intrigue.
Ali is an orphan and undercover stunt reporter who wants to expose corruption.Griff is the wealthy son of a shipping magnate.
Of course there is some romance alongside the adventure.
I enjoyed the eye-opening peek into the life of Italian immigrants during the columbian Exposition.
This novella was an exciting start to a series that is now a must read on my list!
5 stars
I enjoyed this fast paced novella - it was a short read but was filled with likable characters, adventure, and intrigue.
Ali is an orphan and undercover stunt reporter who wants to expose corruption.Griff is the wealthy son of a shipping magnate.
Of course there is some romance alongside the adventure.
I enjoyed the eye-opening peek into the life of Italian immigrants during the columbian Exposition.
This novella was an exciting start to a series that is now a must read on my list!
5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
The prequel to the new Ali DiStasio series drew me into the story immediately with its realistic portrayal of children in an orphanage, local corruption in Chicago, and an intrepid female reporter who goes undercover to expose secrets and lies. Ali is courageous, foolhardy at times and always faithful to those who are downtrodden and need her help. In this prequel, she meets Griff Moorland, a young man who needs help investigating what is going on with his father’s business, but he has no idea how to accomplish the task until Ali leads him into a dangerous plan. The characters were delightfully realistic, portrayed with heart and whimsy as Ali and Griff rush to save the funding for the orphanage and Griff’s future inheritance. The story was a fast-paced and engaging story that had me absorbed in the tale of taking on the giants of corruption without thoughts about encountering death or danger. I am really looking forward to the first book in the series that will tell more about Ali and Griff’s adventures together.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this novella , "Undercover Wish", which is a prequel to Danielle Grandinetti's upcoming "DiStasio Giornaliste Agency" series. Unlike Grandinetti's other stories, this one is set in 1892. It was great to get the backstory on how the agency started since the owner of the agency in the rest of the novels is in her 60's and they take place in the 1930's.
This story sets up the series nicely and is a sweet and clean historical suspense romance. The story was just the right length as a novella and felt compete. I liked Ally who is an independent street wise woman paired with Griff, a society gentlemen. They have great chemistry and work so well together despite their different backgrounds.
The story itself brings the reader on so many twists and turns wrought with danger, mystery and intrigue. I was kept guessing until towards the end with the villain's identity. The story just has the most satisfying ending as well!
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
This story sets up the series nicely and is a sweet and clean historical suspense romance. The story was just the right length as a novella and felt compete. I liked Ally who is an independent street wise woman paired with Griff, a society gentlemen. They have great chemistry and work so well together despite their different backgrounds.
The story itself brings the reader on so many twists and turns wrought with danger, mystery and intrigue. I was kept guessing until towards the end with the villain's identity. The story just has the most satisfying ending as well!
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 2, 2026
I usually don't like to read about fairy tales because they aren't usually my genre of books BUT with that said, Undercover Wish (Di Stasio Giornaliste Agency) Novella is totally different than any fairytale retelling I've ever read. This is a Aladdin and the Magic Lamp retelling, it puts a whole different spin on a story that I have always loved. We have Ali who is a stunt reporter goes under the name of Ali Di Stasio who is trying to expose the truth and protect her fellow orphans, as she was one herself growing up. She ends up in the crosshairs of a dangerous elite group in the city of Chicago. She lived on the streets herself so she is used to sleuthing and gathering information. Griff Moorland, heir to his father's shipping company comes home from England to be set to be married. There is a sinister plot here at play that neither Griff or Ali understand. Ali, who Griff calls the White Flower girl (if my memory serves me correctly), they knew each other when Griff's mother used to visit the orphanage where Ali is when they were just little children. Griff is instantly attracted and pulled toward Ali, so he chooses to set out and help her undercover the truth of the elites in the city's corrupt plans. I love how the author told this story with such intrigue and danger. Faith and Hope for the future and plans to redeem a circumstance that seems unredeemable. Ive been a true Historical Romance Fan through this. I can't wait for more in this series to come soon. There will be plenty to look forward to with the Di Stasio series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views and opinions expressed are only my honest opinion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views and opinions expressed are only my honest opinion.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews