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The Age of Fury
Not yet published
Expected 20 Oct 261907. New York City. A glittering world built on lies - and one murdered girl who could expose them all.
Caitlin Quinn crosses the ocean from Ballykelly with nothing but a desperate letter from her missing twin, Mary. New York is meant to hold answers - but instead it offers a sprawling metropolis with a brutal underbelly of crooked deals, criminal empires and forces who'd kill to keep Mary's truth hidden.
Then there is William Furey - a notorious gangster haunted by a rage he can't explain. He has his own orders to find Mary, and when his search collides with Caitlin's, their unlikely alliance sparks something fierce and undeniable.
As the walls close in, Caitlin and William realise the truth will cost them far more than they ever imagined. To uncover what happened to Mary, they must risk their loyalties, their futures, and the fragile trust growing between them. Because love, like justice, exacts a price. And some sacrifices are paid in blood...
Caitlin Quinn crosses the ocean from Ballykelly with nothing but a desperate letter from her missing twin, Mary. New York is meant to hold answers - but instead it offers a sprawling metropolis with a brutal underbelly of crooked deals, criminal empires and forces who'd kill to keep Mary's truth hidden.
Then there is William Furey - a notorious gangster haunted by a rage he can't explain. He has his own orders to find Mary, and when his search collides with Caitlin's, their unlikely alliance sparks something fierce and undeniable.
As the walls close in, Caitlin and William realise the truth will cost them far more than they ever imagined. To uncover what happened to Mary, they must risk their loyalties, their futures, and the fragile trust growing between them. Because love, like justice, exacts a price. And some sacrifices are paid in blood...
475 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 20, 2026
About the author
John Stephens
13 books591 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
John Stephens spent ten years working in television and was executive producer of Gossip Girl and a writer for Gilmore Girls and The O.C. He holds an MFA from the University of Virginia. John and his wife have a dog named Bug and live in Los Angeles. His debut book 'The Emerald Atlas' is the first in a series of books.
John Stephens spent ten years working in television and was executive producer of Gossip Girl and a writer for Gilmore Girls and The O.C. He holds an MFA from the University of Virginia. John and his wife have a dog named Bug and live in Los Angeles. His debut book 'The Emerald Atlas' is the first in a series of books.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Review to follow on my tour stop date
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Historical fiction and mystery/thrillers were my favorite genres growing up. I read them everywhere: the school bus, family holidays, and even when I had tickets to national football and hockey games. To put it simply, I was obsessed. While I’ve crossed to the dark side in the years since (Hello, Feyre darling), I still have a special place in my heart for the two genres that helped me get into reading.
The Age of Fury is a window into those genres. The story follows Caitlin, an American immigrant. Caitlin leaves her homeland, Ireland, after receiving a letter from her twin sister begging for help. Unfortunately, Caitlin arrives too late—her sister has been murdered, and the police are doing little to investigate the case. Caitlin is determined to catch her sister’s killer, and she doesn’t care how many gangsters and corrupt policemen she has to cross to do so.
Caitlin is a character that readers can root for. Some of her lines had me laughing out loud! I think it can be difficult to write a main character with blunt language and brash decisions while still making them likable to the reader. This is one of the only books I’ve read that has accomplished it.
I also appreciate the author’s attention to detail with the time period and setting. This book takes place during the Gilded Age (circa 1900 in New York). I love how different ships, ports, and historical figures (some fictional, some real) are drawn into the story.
The main reason I’m rating this book 3 stars instead of 4 is because I found it unrealistic that a handsome gangster would abandon his life’s work—not to mention the gang leader who saved him as a child and raised him to be his second-in-command—for a girl he’d just met. That, combined with the story’s slow pacing, lowered my rating to 3 stars. That said, I still think it’s a good book!
I haven’t read a historical mystery in a while, and I’m glad The Age of Fury changed that. I can see fans of gritty, upper YA stories enjoying this. Overall, I had a wonderful reading experience.
I received a copy of The Age of Fury as a #GetUnderlinedPartner from Penguin Random House. All opinions are my own.
The Age of Fury is a window into those genres. The story follows Caitlin, an American immigrant. Caitlin leaves her homeland, Ireland, after receiving a letter from her twin sister begging for help. Unfortunately, Caitlin arrives too late—her sister has been murdered, and the police are doing little to investigate the case. Caitlin is determined to catch her sister’s killer, and she doesn’t care how many gangsters and corrupt policemen she has to cross to do so.
Caitlin is a character that readers can root for. Some of her lines had me laughing out loud! I think it can be difficult to write a main character with blunt language and brash decisions while still making them likable to the reader. This is one of the only books I’ve read that has accomplished it.
I also appreciate the author’s attention to detail with the time period and setting. This book takes place during the Gilded Age (circa 1900 in New York). I love how different ships, ports, and historical figures (some fictional, some real) are drawn into the story.
The main reason I’m rating this book 3 stars instead of 4 is because I found it unrealistic that a handsome gangster would abandon his life’s work—not to mention the gang leader who saved him as a child and raised him to be his second-in-command—for a girl he’d just met. That, combined with the story’s slow pacing, lowered my rating to 3 stars. That said, I still think it’s a good book!
I haven’t read a historical mystery in a while, and I’m glad The Age of Fury changed that. I can see fans of gritty, upper YA stories enjoying this. Overall, I had a wonderful reading experience.
I received a copy of The Age of Fury as a #GetUnderlinedPartner from Penguin Random House. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Far more violent and gritty than I was expecting. Really enjoyed it
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Age of Fury by John Stephens is deeply immersive historical fiction that had me gripped tightly throughout
I am not usually captivated by YA fiction, but this book is at the upper age of the genre due to it's close attention to research and factual accuracy of the era, A time when people had to be hard headed and hard fought to survive
It's the gilded age in New York. A time of excessive wealth for those that had it and extreme poverty for those that did not (making this novel even more timely and relevant) Caitlin Quinn is on a desperate journey from Ballykelly, (Londonderry, Northern Ireland) to find her twin sister Mary after she received an ominous letter from her. Caitlin finds not a city of glitz and glamour, but a labyrinthine metropolis full of danger and deceit, perfidy and peril.
Caitlin crosses paths with William Furey, a gangster who is also searching for Mary and as the pair team up to find her they unearth not only a deep connection, but a seething mystery that will not only risk their future together, but their lives
The Age of Fury is stunning. The book captures the era perfectly, from the glitz and glamour to the desperation and poverty of the working classes and immigrants that built New York from the ground up. John Stephens creates not only a strong storyline and relatable characters, but places them in a narrative that is highly illustrative and authentic. The careful, meticulous (and clearly extensive) research that has gone into this book is immediately apparent and is consistent throughout, making it highly immersive and immensly enjoyable
A fantastic introduction to this author and will be adding them to my 'must buy' list. I would highly recommend this author to fans of John Boyne. While the two authors have different styles, the skill of placing the reader within the story is executed with a quiet finesse that is hardly noticable until you come up for air after losing hours and hours in history and mystery
Thank you to the author, Hot Key Books (Bonnier Books) and InstaBookTours for this outstanding novel. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
I am not usually captivated by YA fiction, but this book is at the upper age of the genre due to it's close attention to research and factual accuracy of the era, A time when people had to be hard headed and hard fought to survive
It's the gilded age in New York. A time of excessive wealth for those that had it and extreme poverty for those that did not (making this novel even more timely and relevant) Caitlin Quinn is on a desperate journey from Ballykelly, (Londonderry, Northern Ireland) to find her twin sister Mary after she received an ominous letter from her. Caitlin finds not a city of glitz and glamour, but a labyrinthine metropolis full of danger and deceit, perfidy and peril.
Caitlin crosses paths with William Furey, a gangster who is also searching for Mary and as the pair team up to find her they unearth not only a deep connection, but a seething mystery that will not only risk their future together, but their lives
The Age of Fury is stunning. The book captures the era perfectly, from the glitz and glamour to the desperation and poverty of the working classes and immigrants that built New York from the ground up. John Stephens creates not only a strong storyline and relatable characters, but places them in a narrative that is highly illustrative and authentic. The careful, meticulous (and clearly extensive) research that has gone into this book is immediately apparent and is consistent throughout, making it highly immersive and immensly enjoyable
A fantastic introduction to this author and will be adding them to my 'must buy' list. I would highly recommend this author to fans of John Boyne. While the two authors have different styles, the skill of placing the reader within the story is executed with a quiet finesse that is hardly noticable until you come up for air after losing hours and hours in history and mystery
Thank you to the author, Hot Key Books (Bonnier Books) and InstaBookTours for this outstanding novel. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Propulsive YA historical mystery - worthy of readers of all ages.
It’s 1907 and seventeen year old Caitlin Quinn arrives in New York with a letter from her sister, Mary, telling her of a “terrible decision.” Upon arrival Caitlin learns her sister is dead and she vows to find out more. Meanwhile William Furey, nineteen, is charged by gang leader, Frank Shannon, to quietly look into Mary’s death since the police aren’t having labeled Mary a prostitute. A chance encounter brings the two together and they join forces in finding a long list of suspects in New York’s criminal underworld to check into. To be sure the investigation is dangerous abounding in near misses and close calls but a romance starts to simmer.
The suspense of finding out what happened to Mary is good. This is helped by short chapters and letters that add lots of twists. The descriptions of the Gilded Age settings are authentic in detail - which I enjoyed. While there is a cynicism and darkness in the story, it’s not too heavy which is helped by humor in the telling. I liked Caitlin - she’s tough, driving, and will go up against the odds. William is nicely drawn - a character questioning who he is and who he wants to be.
This book is thematic in exploring contrasts between the worlds of the haves and have nots, in telling an immigrant story of ideals and disillusionment, and corruption in the police force prevents justice from being given. While the writing is more for younger readers, these themes can resonate with an adult reader as well.
My thanks to NetGalley and Knopf Books for Young Readers for allowing me access to this ARC.
It’s 1907 and seventeen year old Caitlin Quinn arrives in New York with a letter from her sister, Mary, telling her of a “terrible decision.” Upon arrival Caitlin learns her sister is dead and she vows to find out more. Meanwhile William Furey, nineteen, is charged by gang leader, Frank Shannon, to quietly look into Mary’s death since the police aren’t having labeled Mary a prostitute. A chance encounter brings the two together and they join forces in finding a long list of suspects in New York’s criminal underworld to check into. To be sure the investigation is dangerous abounding in near misses and close calls but a romance starts to simmer.
The suspense of finding out what happened to Mary is good. This is helped by short chapters and letters that add lots of twists. The descriptions of the Gilded Age settings are authentic in detail - which I enjoyed. While there is a cynicism and darkness in the story, it’s not too heavy which is helped by humor in the telling. I liked Caitlin - she’s tough, driving, and will go up against the odds. William is nicely drawn - a character questioning who he is and who he wants to be.
This book is thematic in exploring contrasts between the worlds of the haves and have nots, in telling an immigrant story of ideals and disillusionment, and corruption in the police force prevents justice from being given. While the writing is more for younger readers, these themes can resonate with an adult reader as well.
My thanks to NetGalley and Knopf Books for Young Readers for allowing me access to this ARC.
August 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 I have never watched Gilmore Girls which John was a writer on and not read any of his other books so wasn’t sure what to expect with this book but I really enjoyed it. It was very fast paced and filled with very compelling characters. Caitlin is so fiery and determined it’s incredible, I wish I had had her tenacity at that age. There are numerous laugh out loud moments especially when she goes up against William Furey, whom she meets while looking for her sister’s killer. Their relationship is compelling from the start as they are brought together trying to find a killer. We see as they slowly integrate into 1907 New York City society, see the lies it is built on and find a secret that can bring them all down.
As mentioned earlier the book is very fast paced but I felt that it slowed a bit in the middle area and some bits felt a bit drawn out and not really needed. But I felt that the characters were so well done they were strong enough to keep me entertained and interested. You can really tell the author has done their research as you are completely immersed in both worlds of this book, high society and the immigrant communities at the lower end of the hierarchy. It was really well done I thought.
Overall a really good solid four and a half star read and if you enjoy stories of New York’s Gilded Age, criminal gangs or Irish communities, you will enjoy this. I would definitely recommend this book.
Thanks to Netgallery for a ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As mentioned earlier the book is very fast paced but I felt that it slowed a bit in the middle area and some bits felt a bit drawn out and not really needed. But I felt that the characters were so well done they were strong enough to keep me entertained and interested. You can really tell the author has done their research as you are completely immersed in both worlds of this book, high society and the immigrant communities at the lower end of the hierarchy. It was really well done I thought.
Overall a really good solid four and a half star read and if you enjoy stories of New York’s Gilded Age, criminal gangs or Irish communities, you will enjoy this. I would definitely recommend this book.
Thanks to Netgallery for a ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Did Not Finish
October 4, 2026Why the fuck are we still allowing men to write women? And then publishing them?
In no circumstance is someone calling their sister “my love” 🤢
In no circumstance is someone calling their sister “my love” 🤢
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Age of Fury
Author: John Stephens
Source: NetGalley
Publication Date: October 20, 2026
RICH VS POOR
IRISH IMMIGRANTS
1907 NEW YORK
ROMANCE
Firstly, this book is being marketed as a Young Adult (YA) novel, which I strongly disagree with. The excessive violence depicted in this book is not suitable for my teenage grandchild to read.
Secondly, the narrative begins with the captivating and affectionate twin sisters, Caitlin and Mary, residing in Ireland. Their parents have passed away, leaving them with a modest farm in the Irish countryside that provides them with food and shelter. However, their lives take a dramatic turn when Mary decides to flee to New York City in pursuit of a wealthy man and a promising future. The premise that a wealthy neighbor in Ireland, belonging to high society, imparts the skills of a “pretend lady” to these girls is unconvincing. This is not a retelling of “My Fair Lady.”
Mary sends a letter from the United States, imploring her sister to join her in New York City to rescue her from an unspecified predicament. The story delves into the challenges faced by Mary, who becomes an example of a young girl with ambitious dreams that unravel upon reaching the United States, ultimately leading to her abandonment. When she becomes entangled with gangsters, specifically a group known as the “Gophers,” she tragically meets her end. The notion of a gopher gangster being a formidable adversary is implausible. It’s not that they aren’t, it is that I highly doubt they would choose the vicious gopher as their mascot.
While the initial 57% of the book is engaging, the subsequent chapters deteriorate into a series of unfortunate events. The language employed in the book is excessively vulgar, and although I am not easily offended by profanity, it is evident that the Irish society depicted in the novel lacks the affluence of a gilded age. Instead, it portrays impoverished orphan girls who subsist on potatoes and engage in the gruesome task of slaughtering hogs with knives, resulting in copious amounts of blood staining their fine, albeit not authentically Irish, linens.
Despite the presence of a romantic subplot and intriguing characters, the majority of the characters are morally questionable and despicable. The notion that Caitlin and her mobster helper (not a member of the Gophers) consistently “save” each other from death is an unrealistic and contrived plot device.
A significant amount of potential is overlooked, and it is consistently emphasized in other reviews that the author wrote for the television show “The Gilmore Girls.” This is certainly not Rory’s lifestyle.
I am deeply disappointed, and I believed until approximately 57% into the book that the story could be redeemed and possessed great potential. However, I was mistaken.
@netgalley
@aaknopf
#theageoffury
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley, and the author for the opportunity to read this novel.
The Age of Fury
Author: John Stephens
Source: NetGalley
Publication Date: October 20, 2026
RICH VS POOR
IRISH IMMIGRANTS
1907 NEW YORK
ROMANCE
Firstly, this book is being marketed as a Young Adult (YA) novel, which I strongly disagree with. The excessive violence depicted in this book is not suitable for my teenage grandchild to read.
Secondly, the narrative begins with the captivating and affectionate twin sisters, Caitlin and Mary, residing in Ireland. Their parents have passed away, leaving them with a modest farm in the Irish countryside that provides them with food and shelter. However, their lives take a dramatic turn when Mary decides to flee to New York City in pursuit of a wealthy man and a promising future. The premise that a wealthy neighbor in Ireland, belonging to high society, imparts the skills of a “pretend lady” to these girls is unconvincing. This is not a retelling of “My Fair Lady.”
Mary sends a letter from the United States, imploring her sister to join her in New York City to rescue her from an unspecified predicament. The story delves into the challenges faced by Mary, who becomes an example of a young girl with ambitious dreams that unravel upon reaching the United States, ultimately leading to her abandonment. When she becomes entangled with gangsters, specifically a group known as the “Gophers,” she tragically meets her end. The notion of a gopher gangster being a formidable adversary is implausible. It’s not that they aren’t, it is that I highly doubt they would choose the vicious gopher as their mascot.
While the initial 57% of the book is engaging, the subsequent chapters deteriorate into a series of unfortunate events. The language employed in the book is excessively vulgar, and although I am not easily offended by profanity, it is evident that the Irish society depicted in the novel lacks the affluence of a gilded age. Instead, it portrays impoverished orphan girls who subsist on potatoes and engage in the gruesome task of slaughtering hogs with knives, resulting in copious amounts of blood staining their fine, albeit not authentically Irish, linens.
Despite the presence of a romantic subplot and intriguing characters, the majority of the characters are morally questionable and despicable. The notion that Caitlin and her mobster helper (not a member of the Gophers) consistently “save” each other from death is an unrealistic and contrived plot device.
A significant amount of potential is overlooked, and it is consistently emphasized in other reviews that the author wrote for the television show “The Gilmore Girls.” This is certainly not Rory’s lifestyle.
I am deeply disappointed, and I believed until approximately 57% into the book that the story could be redeemed and possessed great potential. However, I was mistaken.
@netgalley
@aaknopf
#theageoffury
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley, and the author for the opportunity to read this novel.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“The Age of Fury” is a lively historical novel and murder mystery set in New York City in 1907. It stars Caitlin Quinn, a courageous, indomitable 17-year-old who crosses the Atlantic to rescue her twin sister, Mary, who left Ireland with a man she’d fallen in love with, but who is now in some sort of serious trouble.
Soon after arriving in Manhattan, Caitlin learns that Mary is dead, brutally murdered in an alley. Determined to avenge her twin, she hunts for the person(s) responsible throughout the city and a variety of classes, including its poor, its criminal element, and its wealthiest, most powerful citizenry. Along the way, she meets William Furey, right-hand henchman to one of New York’s most notorious crime bosses who is currently at war with another gang over control of the docks.
Author John Stephens has written a novel featuring compelling characters. I found Caitlin to be very enjoyable, especially since, despite whatever danger she might be in, she’s often laugh-out-loud funny, and more than a match for William Furey. Mr. Stephens also makes good use of a variety of period settings, including New York’s developing west-side docks, various Catholic institutions, and a stunningly opulent estate overlooking the Hudson.
While the book grabbed me at the very beginning, the second half’s plotting struck me as sometimes drawn out, convoluted, and even melodramatic, making the 480-page novel seem overlong by about 15-20%. However, I found the characters strong enough and entertaining enough to hold my interest. Mr. Stephens has been quite successful in creating characters readers can care about.
I was surprised to find that the promotional materials set the “reading age” at “14 years and up.” I suppose that’s because Caitlin and William are 17 and 19 respectively. Nevertheless, parents and educators of readers at the younger ages of the range may wish to know that the novel includes scenes of violence and a number of references to prostitution. There are, however, no graphic sex scenes.
All in all, I thought this a solid four-star read suitable for anyone who enjoys stories about New York during or just after “The Gilded Age,” its “robber-barons,” its Irish community, or its criminal gangs. Indeed, the novel reminded me of films like “Far and Away,” “Gangs of New York,” and even “The Road to Perdition” (even though that takes place in Depression-era Chicago).
"The Age of Fury" is scheduled to be published on October 20, 2026.
My thanks to NetGalley, author John Stephens, and publisher Knopf Books for Young Readers for providing me with a complimentary electronic ARC. All of the foregoing is my honest, independent opinion.
Soon after arriving in Manhattan, Caitlin learns that Mary is dead, brutally murdered in an alley. Determined to avenge her twin, she hunts for the person(s) responsible throughout the city and a variety of classes, including its poor, its criminal element, and its wealthiest, most powerful citizenry. Along the way, she meets William Furey, right-hand henchman to one of New York’s most notorious crime bosses who is currently at war with another gang over control of the docks.
Author John Stephens has written a novel featuring compelling characters. I found Caitlin to be very enjoyable, especially since, despite whatever danger she might be in, she’s often laugh-out-loud funny, and more than a match for William Furey. Mr. Stephens also makes good use of a variety of period settings, including New York’s developing west-side docks, various Catholic institutions, and a stunningly opulent estate overlooking the Hudson.
While the book grabbed me at the very beginning, the second half’s plotting struck me as sometimes drawn out, convoluted, and even melodramatic, making the 480-page novel seem overlong by about 15-20%. However, I found the characters strong enough and entertaining enough to hold my interest. Mr. Stephens has been quite successful in creating characters readers can care about.
I was surprised to find that the promotional materials set the “reading age” at “14 years and up.” I suppose that’s because Caitlin and William are 17 and 19 respectively. Nevertheless, parents and educators of readers at the younger ages of the range may wish to know that the novel includes scenes of violence and a number of references to prostitution. There are, however, no graphic sex scenes.
All in all, I thought this a solid four-star read suitable for anyone who enjoys stories about New York during or just after “The Gilded Age,” its “robber-barons,” its Irish community, or its criminal gangs. Indeed, the novel reminded me of films like “Far and Away,” “Gangs of New York,” and even “The Road to Perdition” (even though that takes place in Depression-era Chicago).
"The Age of Fury" is scheduled to be published on October 20, 2026.
My thanks to NetGalley, author John Stephens, and publisher Knopf Books for Young Readers for providing me with a complimentary electronic ARC. All of the foregoing is my honest, independent opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this one. Historical fiction isn't always my go-to genre, but the combination of a murder mystery, gang rivalries, and 1907 New York completely pulled me in.
Caitlin was easy to root for from the very beginning. I loved how determined she was to find out what happened to her sister, and she had just enough humor to lighten some of the darker moments. William was probably my favorite character, though. His internal struggle made him feel much more than just your typical gangster.
The setting was one of the biggest highlights for me. It was gritty, atmospheric, and really brought New York to life. I could easily picture the streets, the docks, and the different worlds these characters were navigating.
The pacing did slow down a bit in the middle, and I think the story could have been a little shorter, but I never lost interest in finding out how everything would come together. Once things started picking up again, I was fully invested.
Overall, this was an entertaining historical mystery with memorable characters, plenty of suspense, and just enough romance mixed in. I'd definitely recommend it if you enjoy historical crime fiction, murder mysteries, and character-driven stories.
Thank you to NetGalley and Knopf Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Caitlin was easy to root for from the very beginning. I loved how determined she was to find out what happened to her sister, and she had just enough humor to lighten some of the darker moments. William was probably my favorite character, though. His internal struggle made him feel much more than just your typical gangster.
The setting was one of the biggest highlights for me. It was gritty, atmospheric, and really brought New York to life. I could easily picture the streets, the docks, and the different worlds these characters were navigating.
The pacing did slow down a bit in the middle, and I think the story could have been a little shorter, but I never lost interest in finding out how everything would come together. Once things started picking up again, I was fully invested.
Overall, this was an entertaining historical mystery with memorable characters, plenty of suspense, and just enough romance mixed in. I'd definitely recommend it if you enjoy historical crime fiction, murder mysteries, and character-driven stories.
Thank you to NetGalley and Knopf Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely loved this book! I was so excited to read The Age of Fury because I've loved John Stephens's previous work, especially his work connected to Gilmore Girls, and this did not disappoint. Once I sat down to read, I could hardly put it down!
The pacing was fantastic, the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, and the twists kept me guessing. Caitlin was a standout for me. I loved her fiery personality, her honesty, and her sharp wit. I related to her so much, and I have a feeling I'll be quoting some of her lines for a while! William Fury was another favorite, and I loved learning more about his backstory and watching his character develop.
The character development throughout the book was wonderful, and the setting was so vivid that I felt like I was right there in the gritty streets of early 1900s New York. Historical fiction isn't usually my go-to genre, but give me gangsters, crime, mystery, and a story this good, and I'm hooked!
An easy five stars from me. I highly recommend this one and would happily read more from John Stephens!
Thank you, Random House Children's Books and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The pacing was fantastic, the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, and the twists kept me guessing. Caitlin was a standout for me. I loved her fiery personality, her honesty, and her sharp wit. I related to her so much, and I have a feeling I'll be quoting some of her lines for a while! William Fury was another favorite, and I loved learning more about his backstory and watching his character develop.
The character development throughout the book was wonderful, and the setting was so vivid that I felt like I was right there in the gritty streets of early 1900s New York. Historical fiction isn't usually my go-to genre, but give me gangsters, crime, mystery, and a story this good, and I'm hooked!
An easy five stars from me. I highly recommend this one and would happily read more from John Stephens!
Thank you, Random House Children's Books and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Age of Fury is a very good read and kept me on the edge as I wanted to find out more about the whole story, especially about Caitlin's sister.
The characters are so well described and kept me entertained and engaged in the story.
The FMC is so well portraited and is seen as very determined and fiery to find out the real truth and nothing would stop her to do just that.
I do believe that she is a bit too naive and trust people too easily, but she is also quick in making up for her mistakes.
The MMC is so full of suspense and you never know what he's going to do next. However, he is very committed in finding out the truth.
The book is fast paced with lots of turns, twists, suspense, laughter, love and so much more.
I really like the relationship formed between FMC and MMC and the ending is just great.
A very easy book to read and if you like suspense, historical fiction, crime, mystery then this book is for you.
The characters are so well described and kept me entertained and engaged in the story.
The FMC is so well portraited and is seen as very determined and fiery to find out the real truth and nothing would stop her to do just that.
I do believe that she is a bit too naive and trust people too easily, but she is also quick in making up for her mistakes.
The MMC is so full of suspense and you never know what he's going to do next. However, he is very committed in finding out the truth.
The book is fast paced with lots of turns, twists, suspense, laughter, love and so much more.
I really like the relationship formed between FMC and MMC and the ending is just great.
A very easy book to read and if you like suspense, historical fiction, crime, mystery then this book is for you.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book is being mis-marketed as YA in my opinion and I am having a hard time continuing reading.
In Chapter One, Caitlin is writing to her sister Mary, the year is 1907. Caitlin tells her sister in the letter ""To be honest, I don't see how it's any of your fucking business.". Did people speak like this in 1907? The use of profanity in books doesn't normally bother me, but if this is meant to be written in 1907, I would assume that different language would be used especially from a lady, especially in writing. Now, we are still in Chapter one and there is mention of men taking advantage of women. In Chapter Three, one of the characters says "I don't want some dead slut in my cab." Chapter Eight - "I'll fix that slut". I'm just not vibing with this book at all.
The use of language in this book is definitely an interesting choice and it's taking me out of the story. DNF at 15%
In Chapter One, Caitlin is writing to her sister Mary, the year is 1907. Caitlin tells her sister in the letter ""To be honest, I don't see how it's any of your fucking business.". Did people speak like this in 1907? The use of profanity in books doesn't normally bother me, but if this is meant to be written in 1907, I would assume that different language would be used especially from a lady, especially in writing. Now, we are still in Chapter one and there is mention of men taking advantage of women. In Chapter Three, one of the characters says "I don't want some dead slut in my cab." Chapter Eight - "I'll fix that slut". I'm just not vibing with this book at all.
The use of language in this book is definitely an interesting choice and it's taking me out of the story. DNF at 15%
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Age of Fury by John Stephens, a historical fiction novel about a young and spirited Irish woman, Caitlin, a notorious New York gangster and enforcer, William Furey, and their search to find Caitlin’s sister’s murderer. I enjoyed the setting: New York City, 1907. The reader is immersed in the poor slums of the orphaned lost boys and the docks, then transported to lavish dinner parties with champagne and chauffeurs. The author did a great job developing the main characters and revealing the mystery of a doomed love affair full of twists and ill-fated turns. I was engaged with the story from the beginning, and recommend it to fans of historical fiction, murder mysteries, and gritty main characters. 4 stars.
(Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.)
(Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.)
October 13, 2026
I really enjoyed this historical fiction set between Ireland and New York. I particularly loved the dual POV from Caitlin and William, which gave the story two very different perspectives and made it easy to become invested in both of their journeys.
Neither character is perfect — they’re flawed, complicated and vulnerable — but I think that’s what made them so compelling. I found myself really rooting for them, even when they didn’t always make the best choices!
There are also some fantastic side characters… the kind you absolutely love to hate 😂
The author does a brilliant job of bringing both Ireland and New York to life through their descriptions. I could really picture the settings as the story unfolded, which added so much to the atmosphere.
A really enjoyable historical read, and I’d absolutely pick up another book by this author!
Neither character is perfect — they’re flawed, complicated and vulnerable — but I think that’s what made them so compelling. I found myself really rooting for them, even when they didn’t always make the best choices!
There are also some fantastic side characters… the kind you absolutely love to hate 😂
The author does a brilliant job of bringing both Ireland and New York to life through their descriptions. I could really picture the settings as the story unfolded, which added so much to the atmosphere.
A really enjoyable historical read, and I’d absolutely pick up another book by this author!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Caitlyn is 17 and living in her family home alone since her twin ran off with a man she was in love with to America. Caitlyn is heartbroken and misses her sister but she receives a letter saying that Mary is in trouble. Caitlyn gets to New York only to find that Mary has been murdered. She vows to find who killed her and avenge her death.
I loved the 1907 time period as well as the story. William Furey was a great character whose struggle with his identity was a challenge for him. Caitlyn's wit and humor was refreshing and brought some relief in dark places. I look forward to reading more of Stephens' works.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review this book.
I loved the 1907 time period as well as the story. William Furey was a great character whose struggle with his identity was a challenge for him. Caitlyn's wit and humor was refreshing and brought some relief in dark places. I look forward to reading more of Stephens' works.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read and review this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
HIstorical Fiction-early 1900's
Caitlin arrives from Ireland desperate to save her twin sister, Mary. Caitlin discovers that Mary has been murdered and it becomes her quest to find her killer. Mob enforcer, William Fury, is ordered by his boss to investigate Mary's murder. The gang suspects her death is tied to an ongoing dockwar with a rival gang, the Gophers. It is on the streets that Caitlin and William meet and end up working together to find Mary's killer.
Awesome book! Lots of suspicious characters that keep you guessing "who dunnit". Great character development with both Caitlin and William plus an added romance between the two. Interesting 1900 era themes of gang violence, corruption in the police departments and immigration.
Caitlin arrives from Ireland desperate to save her twin sister, Mary. Caitlin discovers that Mary has been murdered and it becomes her quest to find her killer. Mob enforcer, William Fury, is ordered by his boss to investigate Mary's murder. The gang suspects her death is tied to an ongoing dockwar with a rival gang, the Gophers. It is on the streets that Caitlin and William meet and end up working together to find Mary's killer.
Awesome book! Lots of suspicious characters that keep you guessing "who dunnit". Great character development with both Caitlin and William plus an added romance between the two. Interesting 1900 era themes of gang violence, corruption in the police departments and immigration.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Dark, gritty, and packed with atmosphere. I really enjoyed the historical setting and the mystery elements throughout the story. The pacing slowed down a little in parts for me, but overall it was an engaging read with strong suspense.
Dark, gritty, and packed with atmosphere. I really enjoyed the historical setting and the mystery elements throughout the story. The pacing slowed down a little in parts for me, but overall it was an engaging read with strong suspense.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I found this unusually difficult to get into, which is stranger still because the tone doesn't change even though it becomes more engaging relatively quickly - after the first 20% I'd say. It's a rollicking good time after that, so.
Read
July 11, 2026Sadly I DNFd @10% - it starts off written in epistolary form (not my fav) and is more of a historical fiction genre than I like.
I also wasn't crazy about the MC - Caitlin.
Just not for me.
🌟Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!🌟
I also wasn't crazy about the MC - Caitlin.
Just not for me.
🌟Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!🌟
July 12, 2026
Caitlyn gets word that Mary is in trouble and goes on an adventure to solve the mystery behind her death.
If you like historical pieces then this is for you.
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC read.
If you like historical pieces then this is for you.
Thanks NetGalley for this ARC read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was highly disappointed with this book. While the book itself was well written, for the most part, it is being promoted towards young adults (age 14+). This should NOT be a young adult novel. Within the first few chapters the characters use a great deal of cursing, discussed violent death in detail, and made several mentions of attempted SA and prostitution.
If the main characters were aged up and this book was promoted as an "Adult Thriller" I'd be giving it a very different rating. But as a novel promoted toward young adults, I did not enjoy it at all.
If the main characters were aged up and this book was promoted as an "Adult Thriller" I'd be giving it a very different rating. But as a novel promoted toward young adults, I did not enjoy it at all.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“The Age of Fury” did not turn out quite like I expected, and the book was better for it. Caitlin Quinn and William Furey made for great protagonists. The story has plenty of surprises, with rival gangs, a destitute duke, twin sisters, a rich over-entitled industrialist, corrupt police, etc.
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