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Kitty Weeks Mystery #1
A Front Page Affair
New York City, 1915
The Lusitania has just been sunk, and headlines about a shooting at J.P. Morgan's mansion and the Great War are splashed across the front page of every newspaper. Capability "Kitty" Weeks would love nothing more than to report on the news of the day, but she's stuck writing about fashion and society gossip over on the Ladies' Page―until a man is murdered at a high society picnic on her beat.
Determined to prove her worth as a journalist, Kitty finds herself plunged into the midst of a wartime conspiracy that threatens to derail the United States' attempt to remain neutral―and to disrupt the privileged life she has always known.
Radha Vatsal's A Front Page Affair is the first book in highly anticipated series featuring rising journalism star Kitty Weeks.
The Lusitania has just been sunk, and headlines about a shooting at J.P. Morgan's mansion and the Great War are splashed across the front page of every newspaper. Capability "Kitty" Weeks would love nothing more than to report on the news of the day, but she's stuck writing about fashion and society gossip over on the Ladies' Page―until a man is murdered at a high society picnic on her beat.
Determined to prove her worth as a journalist, Kitty finds herself plunged into the midst of a wartime conspiracy that threatens to derail the United States' attempt to remain neutral―and to disrupt the privileged life she has always known.
Radha Vatsal's A Front Page Affair is the first book in highly anticipated series featuring rising journalism star Kitty Weeks.
328 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2016
402 people are currently reading
2389 people want to read
About the author
Radha Vatsal
7 books123 followersRadha Vatsal grew up in Mumbai, India, and came to the United States to attend boarding school when she was sixteen. Her fascination with the 1910s began when she studied women filmmakers and action-film heroines of silent cinema at Duke University, where she earned her Ph.D. from the English Department. A Front Page Affair is her first novel. Radha lives with her husband and two daughters in New York City.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 287 reviews
May 4, 2019
For the past few days I have been trying to find time to read Radha Vatsal's debut novel, A Front Page Affair. Things have come up that have been poaching on my reading time. I got home from work at 9:15pm...took my shower and then buckled down to read. I finished 10 minutes to midnight so technically still part of Mystery Monday!
RATING: 3.5 STARS
MAY 1, 2016; Sourcebook Landmarks
It is 1915, New York and the latest headlines in the paper scream about the sinking of the Lusitania, as well as, the shooting of J.P. Morgan in his mansion. Capability "Kitty" Weeks wants to be a journalist and write big headlines for newspapers. Currently, she is assisting the Editor of the Lady's Page on writing about fashion, gossip and parties. While on her next assignment, to a Fourth of July party, Kitty ends up in the middle of a murder in high society.
Kitty jumps into the case to prove her worth as a journalist but doesn't realize all that goes into trying to follow the clues. In this case the clues are leading to a bigger picture as the war in Europe is trying to break the American's neutrality. As Kitty delves deeper into who killed Hunter Cole she also gets herself closer to danger.
Two things right off the bat - what a gorgeous cover! It is a cover that will make you pick this book up. The other thing that you will notice a chapter into the novel is that Vatsal has done her research. The setting of the book is wonderfully done. While the main characters and story is fictional, much surrounding the fiction is historical fact. There are few people and events I have highlighted and want to Wikipedia and Google about later. I enjoyed this book but the mystery ran a bit away from me. It started off like a cozy historical mystery and went into a bit of espionage like Susan Elia MacNeal's Maggie Hope series. I am wondering if the series will be more of a mystery or intrigue. I enjoyed the characters in the novel but they still seem a bit aloof to the reader. I feel like we get more about history and war that we lose out on the feeling the characters. I do like the characterization of Kitty, as it is a very realistic view of a young woman trying to find herself and her way. I see great potential for this character growing, and can see this series getting tighter. Often at times with the first book in the series, as well as being a debut, it shows a glimmer what is to come. I am sold and will be patiently waiting for the next book. Oh, and the other thing I found interesting - in a good way - there was no in your face love story/interest. We meet a young woman finding herself, and Vatsal sticks to that!
Please see blog mynovelesquelife.blogspot.ca for Author Q&A
***I received an eARC from NETGALLEY***
RATING: 3.5 STARS
MAY 1, 2016; Sourcebook Landmarks
It is 1915, New York and the latest headlines in the paper scream about the sinking of the Lusitania, as well as, the shooting of J.P. Morgan in his mansion. Capability "Kitty" Weeks wants to be a journalist and write big headlines for newspapers. Currently, she is assisting the Editor of the Lady's Page on writing about fashion, gossip and parties. While on her next assignment, to a Fourth of July party, Kitty ends up in the middle of a murder in high society.
Kitty jumps into the case to prove her worth as a journalist but doesn't realize all that goes into trying to follow the clues. In this case the clues are leading to a bigger picture as the war in Europe is trying to break the American's neutrality. As Kitty delves deeper into who killed Hunter Cole she also gets herself closer to danger.
Two things right off the bat - what a gorgeous cover! It is a cover that will make you pick this book up. The other thing that you will notice a chapter into the novel is that Vatsal has done her research. The setting of the book is wonderfully done. While the main characters and story is fictional, much surrounding the fiction is historical fact. There are few people and events I have highlighted and want to Wikipedia and Google about later. I enjoyed this book but the mystery ran a bit away from me. It started off like a cozy historical mystery and went into a bit of espionage like Susan Elia MacNeal's Maggie Hope series. I am wondering if the series will be more of a mystery or intrigue. I enjoyed the characters in the novel but they still seem a bit aloof to the reader. I feel like we get more about history and war that we lose out on the feeling the characters. I do like the characterization of Kitty, as it is a very realistic view of a young woman trying to find herself and her way. I see great potential for this character growing, and can see this series getting tighter. Often at times with the first book in the series, as well as being a debut, it shows a glimmer what is to come. I am sold and will be patiently waiting for the next book. Oh, and the other thing I found interesting - in a good way - there was no in your face love story/interest. We meet a young woman finding herself, and Vatsal sticks to that!
Please see blog mynovelesquelife.blogspot.ca for Author Q&A
***I received an eARC from NETGALLEY***
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March 31, 2019A 19yo rich girl and wannabe journalist in 1915 gets sucked into a mystery when a corpse turns up at the country club.
It's got a lot of historical detail, like a *lot*. Some very well worked in and much completely new to me and really interesting, some a bit obviously "people reading the news to each other". The editor needed to take a hand here because when it's worked in this is very convincing and vivid.
Kitty is very naive and prone to letting men tell her what to do--highly plausible for the character/time, and clearly a series arc. I thought she was being set up for a really interesting relationship with an older man, but sadly a handsome young law enforcement professional turned up. Oh well.
The mystery is well thought out and clever in construction
It's got a lot of historical detail, like a *lot*. Some very well worked in and much completely new to me and really interesting, some a bit obviously "people reading the news to each other". The editor needed to take a hand here because when it's worked in this is very convincing and vivid.
Kitty is very naive and prone to letting men tell her what to do--highly plausible for the character/time, and clearly a series arc. I thought she was being set up for a really interesting relationship with an older man, but sadly a handsome young law enforcement professional turned up. Oh well.
The mystery is well thought out and clever in construction
August 18, 2016
This book is set in the 1900's so you need to cast your mind back to that mind set. Women were treated somewhat differently I don't car what people say, it was a different era back then.
This is the start of a new series by this author and not having read anything by her before I kept my mind open.
Kitty comes from a background of a person who is 'well off' in those days, she had money and was well traveled at the age of only 19.
Her job was a good one but sometimes mundane and she wanted more. Like most young people no matter what era we were born into.
Kitty becomes embroiled in a murder. This leads her to an avenue of a new dimension.
A new Kitty emerges.
Its a well written story and I enjoyed it.
Three stars from me means it liked it, is a fair easy going story that you can pick up and put down and enjoy.
Anyone who likes 'soft' mysteries would enjoy this one.
My thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark via Net Galley for my copy.
May 8, 2018
This was medium OK. Light hearted and semi interesting. It was a little convoluted and moved a bit slowly. Still, not bad for a first novel.
This was Downton Abbey-ish.
This was Downton Abbey-ish.
January 18, 2016
I always love to dive into a historical fiction in which the female lead has to solve a mystery. A Front Page Affair does not disappoint- fans of this genre will enjoy the intelligent curiosity in Kitty Weeks as she ventures into the newspaper world. It is 1915 and the world is rapidly changing. The neutral United States is quickly boiling with suspicion of friends and neighbors as German spies. The news is becoming rapid from the war front and Kitty is hopeful to be a part of it. She is grateful for her time working for the ladies column; but one can only review so many recipes and keep their wits about them! Kitty is writing a society column for a Fourth of July party and things quickly escalate to the point of a murder. Kitty's inquisitive mind quickly applies itself towards solving the murder. The police seem to have too tidily found a suspect and Kitty knows there is more to this murder than meets the eye. Yet, she also has a mystery to solve in her homefront. Her father, self made man, Julian Weeks, is becoming increasingly secretive in his business dealings and activities. Kitty is soon confronted by government agents with questions about her father and his associates. She must find a way to determine who killed wealthy businessman Hunter Cole, for what purpose, and clear her father's name. In a time where women are just beginning to taste personal freedoms, Kitty must navigate this world of new women drivers, women workers, and also society's idealizations of what femininity should be.
I have to compliment Radha Vatsal on her descriptions of the sights, layout, streets, and atmosphere of 1915 New York. I felt like I was transported back in history as an active observer. When Kitty attends the pictures on an unplanned day off; the description of the movie she saw was incredibly interesting. I appreciated all the fact gathering that went into creating this lovely mystery. I highly recommend and look forward to its sequel! (Which I hope there will be one!) Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
I have to compliment Radha Vatsal on her descriptions of the sights, layout, streets, and atmosphere of 1915 New York. I felt like I was transported back in history as an active observer. When Kitty attends the pictures on an unplanned day off; the description of the movie she saw was incredibly interesting. I appreciated all the fact gathering that went into creating this lovely mystery. I highly recommend and look forward to its sequel! (Which I hope there will be one!) Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 3, 2016
This was a pretty good book that took place in New York City during the time when Wilson was deciding what to do about the Lusitania. America was nervous and some were taking advantage of the neutrality. Then there was Kitty who was working as a "journalist" in the ladies section of a newspaper whose dream it was to be a "real" journalist.
She gets sent to a soirée in which there is a murder and her professional life changes overnight. For a while.
I think the author did a great job capturing the wants, dreams and disappointments of a young woman in the early 1900's who wanted to have a career. I found it interesting that even though she wasn't married, but as the daughter and only female, it was still her duty to get with maids and make sure that the daily and extra chores were done. I think just that little piece put a lot of Kitty's life into perspective.
I found this book to be entertaining and educational as I did learn a few things. I really liked how the author portrayed the characters and really felt as though I was reliving 1915. The sounds, the descriptions and the mannerisms just really did it for me.
I want to thank Sourcebooks and Net Galley for sharing a free e-galley with me in exchange for an honest review.
She gets sent to a soirée in which there is a murder and her professional life changes overnight. For a while.
I think the author did a great job capturing the wants, dreams and disappointments of a young woman in the early 1900's who wanted to have a career. I found it interesting that even though she wasn't married, but as the daughter and only female, it was still her duty to get with maids and make sure that the daily and extra chores were done. I think just that little piece put a lot of Kitty's life into perspective.
I found this book to be entertaining and educational as I did learn a few things. I really liked how the author portrayed the characters and really felt as though I was reliving 1915. The sounds, the descriptions and the mannerisms just really did it for me.
I want to thank Sourcebooks and Net Galley for sharing a free e-galley with me in exchange for an honest review.
January 24, 2016
I truly enjoyed this story line. Capability Weeks, or Kitty, as she is more informally known, is a modern American girl that works for the New York Sentinel. In 1915 New York, girls are not allowed to be reporters, so when Kitty is asked by her boss to attend a society garden party to write a story on the event, she's determined to do the best she can. When the event goes awry, Kitty tries to make sense of the clues, and through the help of some interesting characters, she is able to prove to herself and others that she's capable of far more than writing recipes and Ladies Page gossip.
A Front Page Affair was a GOOD book. It fell short of GREAT however, for a few reasons. Number one, was the copy editing. There was so many instances where I was reading and just said to myself, WHO EDITED this?? Who let this author send this to publishing like this? I know it's not an editor's job to rewrite, but it is to redirect, and there was clear redirection needed in some areas. Second, one of my biggest pet peeves in any book is in the last five pages, the author wraps up two months worth of prologue but not in a prologue. To me, it's simpler to finish fleshing it out. I detest when there's just a ton of information crammed into the last 3% of the book. Last, and probably least, was Kitty's friend Amanda. She was a pointless character. She was shallow and mean. I did not like her and didn't understand why Kitty would. She seemed to be mentioned a lot in the book, but didn't help the story in any way, except to make Kitty feel bad about herself.
All in all, I enjoyed the book and really look forward to the next installment in the series. I believe that if the writing/editing errors are smoothed out this will be a very, very enjoyable series!
I received an advanced reading copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A Front Page Affair was a GOOD book. It fell short of GREAT however, for a few reasons. Number one, was the copy editing. There was so many instances where I was reading and just said to myself, WHO EDITED this?? Who let this author send this to publishing like this? I know it's not an editor's job to rewrite, but it is to redirect, and there was clear redirection needed in some areas. Second, one of my biggest pet peeves in any book is in the last five pages, the author wraps up two months worth of prologue but not in a prologue. To me, it's simpler to finish fleshing it out. I detest when there's just a ton of information crammed into the last 3% of the book. Last, and probably least, was Kitty's friend Amanda. She was a pointless character. She was shallow and mean. I did not like her and didn't understand why Kitty would. She seemed to be mentioned a lot in the book, but didn't help the story in any way, except to make Kitty feel bad about herself.
All in all, I enjoyed the book and really look forward to the next installment in the series. I believe that if the writing/editing errors are smoothed out this will be a very, very enjoyable series!
I received an advanced reading copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2020
Capability “Kitty” Weeks was aptly named by her parents after Capability Brown.
Kitty has had many experiences not common to many young women of the day having been born abroad and attended a boarding school in Switzerland for 10 years prior to being sent for by her widowed father as business has him now settling in New York. Kitty is intelligent, adapts easily to new situations, and proves herself creative to accomplish the investigative needs of the news editor that seeks to use Kitty’s new connections made during her attendance at the gala.
Kitty reminded me of Mary Handley in the earlier time period of 1876, with Mary proving her resilience as the first woman detective in the Brooklyn Police Department as created by author Lawrence H. Levy. Mary is actually based on the true story of the first woman hired by the Brooklyn Police Department to investigate a crime. Both characters are unforgettable with acumen and personalities perfect for each of their chosen professions. As a reader I have found historical fiction to be a unique gift as beyond a readable and enjoyable reading experience it widens understanding of cultural norms of the day, and personalizes historical events beyond the dry facts of event names, dates, and related statistics. Historical fiction humanizes historical events with character experiences and reactions to those experiences. It becomes a barometer of the past and a beacon to the future of what might still be possible to achieve. Awareness of the past may seem to be illuminating pain but in understanding through the eyes of others our perspective is broadened and becomes more inclusive and begins to negate judgmental reactions.
I look forward to reading how Kitty Weeks proceeds on her life journey. Her attendance at an event seems guaranteed to attract attention and synthesize the event into a news report that will fascinate readers.
Many historical fiction novels have special features of interest following the end of the story but Radha Vatsal’s provisions are most comprehensive. I delighted in the offerings shared by Radha Vatsal beginning with her advisement in the “Author’s Note” that "much of what seems most unlikely in this novel actually happened." Additional features include: Further Reading, Reading Group Guide: Questions for Discussion, A Conversation with the Author, Selected References and Resources, Acknowledgements, and About the Author.
"Lancelot Brown, more commonly known as Capability Brown, was an English landscape architect. He is remembered as ‘the last of the great English 18th-century artists to be accorded his due’ and ‘England's greatest gardener.’ He designed over 170 parks, many of which still endure."Kitty is 19 years old in 1915, and without any work experience was able to secure a highly sought-after apprentice fashion position on New York’s "Sentinel." Kitty has been an apprentice on the newspaper for 6 months and has received her first solo assignment to attend an Independence Day gala at the Sleepy Hollow Country Club on Monday, July 5th. Kitty is excited and nervous and wants to show supervisor and mentor Miss Helena Busby that she can do far more than opening mail, judging cooking contests, and the like. Due to recent current events abroad (e.g. sinking of the ocean liner Lusitania) and domestically of the shooting of Mr. J. P. Morgan by an intruder into the Morgan mansion, Kitty has aspirations of writing news reports of the day. The secretary to the gala hostess was delighted to explain this year’s crowning celebration of the gala would be an afternoon of Japanese daylight fireworks. Little did Kitty realize as one of the gala guests she would become witness at a murder scene.
Kitty has had many experiences not common to many young women of the day having been born abroad and attended a boarding school in Switzerland for 10 years prior to being sent for by her widowed father as business has him now settling in New York. Kitty is intelligent, adapts easily to new situations, and proves herself creative to accomplish the investigative needs of the news editor that seeks to use Kitty’s new connections made during her attendance at the gala.
Kitty reminded me of Mary Handley in the earlier time period of 1876, with Mary proving her resilience as the first woman detective in the Brooklyn Police Department as created by author Lawrence H. Levy. Mary is actually based on the true story of the first woman hired by the Brooklyn Police Department to investigate a crime. Both characters are unforgettable with acumen and personalities perfect for each of their chosen professions. As a reader I have found historical fiction to be a unique gift as beyond a readable and enjoyable reading experience it widens understanding of cultural norms of the day, and personalizes historical events beyond the dry facts of event names, dates, and related statistics. Historical fiction humanizes historical events with character experiences and reactions to those experiences. It becomes a barometer of the past and a beacon to the future of what might still be possible to achieve. Awareness of the past may seem to be illuminating pain but in understanding through the eyes of others our perspective is broadened and becomes more inclusive and begins to negate judgmental reactions.
I look forward to reading how Kitty Weeks proceeds on her life journey. Her attendance at an event seems guaranteed to attract attention and synthesize the event into a news report that will fascinate readers.
Many historical fiction novels have special features of interest following the end of the story but Radha Vatsal’s provisions are most comprehensive. I delighted in the offerings shared by Radha Vatsal beginning with her advisement in the “Author’s Note” that "much of what seems most unlikely in this novel actually happened." Additional features include: Further Reading, Reading Group Guide: Questions for Discussion, A Conversation with the Author, Selected References and Resources, Acknowledgements, and About the Author.
August 4, 2017
Excellent historical mystery; traditional, without overt sex or violence. Set in 1910 by someone who has really (thank you Radha Vatsal) done her research. Set in NYC and Westchester with the looming threat of the United States entering WWI, A Front Page Affair has a young woman who wants to become a journalist, a realistic view of a woman's role in society if 1910, several major (historically real) people to frame the story -- and ties to politics and possible espionage. Well-written, and a page-turner. Definitely recommend!
May 17, 2016
It is 1915 in New York. Capability “Kitty” Weeks is nineteen years old and a reporter for the Ladies Page of the New York Sentinel (she wants to report real stories but women are not allowed in the newsroom). Miss Helena Busby is her boss and showing her the ropes (she is also her assistant). Kitty was assigned to cover the Independence Day Gala organized by Mrs. Elizabeth Basshor. Kitty was enjoying the unique fireworks display and then there is screaming. Hunter Cole is dead in the stables. Why was Hunter killed and what was he doing in the stables? Hunter is not a well-liked gentleman. Hunter married a burlesque star, Aimee (scandalous to his family). Since Kitty was at the event, she is asked to help Mr. Flanagan, the reporter assigned the story. Kitty gets to help with background material. Kitty is determined to do a good job (with the hopes of getting her toes into the newsroom). Kitty sets out to interview people at the event and those close to Hunter Cole. Can Kitty’s inquiries help her find the killer?
A Front Page Affair by Radha Vatsal was okay, but not great. The writer tried to make the mystery complicated, but it was easy to solve (the killer was so very obvious). I had a hard time reading the novel (some books you read, others you live). The pace is slow (except for the last few pages) which makes the novel feel longer than it really is. The book contained a lot of information on getting a passport (when the law had just passed), fashion (we get plenty of dress descriptions), and parties. There are a great many details on the beginning of World War I. The basic idea for the book was good, but I did not really enjoy the finished product. Kitty Weeks came more across as a socialite who decided to become a journalist for something to do. She wears beautiful clothes and drives a bright yellow roadster (reminds me of another young sleuth with her car). I just felt the book needed more work to make it a good, finished novel. I give it 3 out of 5 stars. A Front Page Affair would have made a better young adult mystery (with just a little tweaking) because it reminded me of mystery series aimed at that age group.
I received a complimentary copy of A Front Page Affair from NetGalley in exchange for an honest evaluation of the novel.
A Front Page Affair by Radha Vatsal was okay, but not great. The writer tried to make the mystery complicated, but it was easy to solve (the killer was so very obvious). I had a hard time reading the novel (some books you read, others you live). The pace is slow (except for the last few pages) which makes the novel feel longer than it really is. The book contained a lot of information on getting a passport (when the law had just passed), fashion (we get plenty of dress descriptions), and parties. There are a great many details on the beginning of World War I. The basic idea for the book was good, but I did not really enjoy the finished product. Kitty Weeks came more across as a socialite who decided to become a journalist for something to do. She wears beautiful clothes and drives a bright yellow roadster (reminds me of another young sleuth with her car). I just felt the book needed more work to make it a good, finished novel. I give it 3 out of 5 stars. A Front Page Affair would have made a better young adult mystery (with just a little tweaking) because it reminded me of mystery series aimed at that age group.
I received a complimentary copy of A Front Page Affair from NetGalley in exchange for an honest evaluation of the novel.
May 3, 2016
An outstanding historical mystery by an author I hadn't read before. Set in New York at the turn of the 21st century. Capability (Kitty) Weeks is the Society Editor assistant for the newspaper, the Sentinel. Kitty attends a high society gala which featured daytime fireworks. While present a guest is found dead in the stables who was found shot with is own gun. Behind the murder is a hidden motive to derailed the neutrality of the United States in THE WAR. Kitty learns a secret about her Father that will change her life. I recommend this book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Sourcebooks Landmark through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions are my own.opin
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Sourcebooks Landmark through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions are my own.opin
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November 16, 2017Fantastic historical data in this classic amateur sleuth. Female writer works for the newspaper, wanting to be seen as a "real" reporter. Great nods to feminism without banging you over the head with it. Very well researched, adding authenticity without slowing down the story. No graphic sex or violence.
March 8, 2024
Fine: enjoyable but ultimately very forgettable.
January 1, 2024
Well researched and written about a young female journalist in the days leading up to World War I. I really enjoyed reading this.
May 2, 2016
A Front Page Affair by Radha Vatsal is a clever historical mystery starring an intrepid young reporter turned amateur sleuth. Set in 1915, this first installment in the Kitty Weeks Mystery series is an entertaining and educational debut that is quite riveting.
On her first independent assignment for the Ladies Page, Capability "Kitty" Weeks is sent to cover an Independence Day celebration hosted by Bessie Basshor. Excited to venture into the "real" world of reporting, Kitty is busy observing the partygoers and conducting informal interviews when news spreads that Hunter Cole, a fellow guest, has been murdered in the stables. Excited when she is asked to help cover the story for the newspaper, Kitty is soon embroiled in her own investigation into Hunter's death after the police quickly make an arrest in the case.
The daughter of a wealthy businessman, Kitty is an intelligent nineteen year old who wants a little more from life than managing her father's household. Her position at the newspaper allows her to balance her need for a career with her family obligations and although she only works part time, she takes her job seriously. She is a little immature and somewhat naive, but her natural curiosity leads her to continue digging into the circumstances surrounding Hunter's murder. Headstrong and independent, Kitty jeopardizes her position at the newspaper when she ignores her Ladies' Page assignments in order to pursue her investigation.
In addition to the mystery surrounding Hunter's death, Kitty finds herself looking into her father's business ventures after an unsettling visit from the Secret Service. Shaken by their accusations, she realizes she does not know him quite as well as she thought and after he refuses to answer her questions, she begins secretly digging into his recent activities. Although troubled by some of the information she uncovers, Kitty is determined to prove her father is innocent of any wrongdoing.
A Front Page Affair is an intriguing mystery with a cast of well-developed characters and a unique storyline. Radha Vatsal's meticulous research brings both the time period and the setting vividly to life and these historic details add depth and authenticity to the overall story. The mystery aspect of the storyline is well written and it is nearly impossible to guess the killer's identity or motive for the murder until the novel's somewhat dramatic conclusion. An excellent first installment in the Kitty Weeks Mystery series that will leave readers impatiently awaiting Kitty's next adventure.
On her first independent assignment for the Ladies Page, Capability "Kitty" Weeks is sent to cover an Independence Day celebration hosted by Bessie Basshor. Excited to venture into the "real" world of reporting, Kitty is busy observing the partygoers and conducting informal interviews when news spreads that Hunter Cole, a fellow guest, has been murdered in the stables. Excited when she is asked to help cover the story for the newspaper, Kitty is soon embroiled in her own investigation into Hunter's death after the police quickly make an arrest in the case.
The daughter of a wealthy businessman, Kitty is an intelligent nineteen year old who wants a little more from life than managing her father's household. Her position at the newspaper allows her to balance her need for a career with her family obligations and although she only works part time, she takes her job seriously. She is a little immature and somewhat naive, but her natural curiosity leads her to continue digging into the circumstances surrounding Hunter's murder. Headstrong and independent, Kitty jeopardizes her position at the newspaper when she ignores her Ladies' Page assignments in order to pursue her investigation.
In addition to the mystery surrounding Hunter's death, Kitty finds herself looking into her father's business ventures after an unsettling visit from the Secret Service. Shaken by their accusations, she realizes she does not know him quite as well as she thought and after he refuses to answer her questions, she begins secretly digging into his recent activities. Although troubled by some of the information she uncovers, Kitty is determined to prove her father is innocent of any wrongdoing.
A Front Page Affair is an intriguing mystery with a cast of well-developed characters and a unique storyline. Radha Vatsal's meticulous research brings both the time period and the setting vividly to life and these historic details add depth and authenticity to the overall story. The mystery aspect of the storyline is well written and it is nearly impossible to guess the killer's identity or motive for the murder until the novel's somewhat dramatic conclusion. An excellent first installment in the Kitty Weeks Mystery series that will leave readers impatiently awaiting Kitty's next adventure.
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May 29, 20164 Stars for the book A Front Page Affair by Radha Vatsal. I’d also like to thank NetGallery for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
I am such a fan of the Molly Murphy series by Rhys Bowen, fans of Ms. Bowen will enjoy this book as I was pleasantly surprised that in this new series by Radha Vatsal, that my dear Molly will have a friend. If you like/love historical fiction with a little mystery thrown in, then this is the book for you.
The characters are well develop, the story moves along at a nice pace, and will keep you reading long into the night. You might want to call in sick the next day at work. Lol. I love the fact that the character is working for a newspaper in 1910, when women weren’t accepted into this kind of work force. Kitty is assigned to covering “women’s” new, like the latest fashions, society parties, recipes, and who’s who in the world of money, eligibility, and the latest gossip. This isn’t what Kitty saw her doing; she wanted to write about the sinking of the Lusitania, the verge of the US going into WWI, anything that is news worthy.
Kitty is assigned to cover the Independence Day event. While at the celebration, a murder happens. Kitty is overjoyed that she was not only there to break the story, but also to help cover the story. She begins her own investigation into who would kill Hunter Cole, and more importantly, why?
Kitty has a good education, a smart girl, a strong backbone, confident, independent. She can have a temper that would scare a rattlesnake to seek cover, determined and can stand up for herself. She can hold her own against any of her male co-workers, she had dreams. At times she can be a little naïve, immature, headstrong, but all in all, she is an all-around good person.
I am looking forward to the next installment into this series, and I would recommend this to everyone to read, even for just shear enjoyment.
I am such a fan of the Molly Murphy series by Rhys Bowen, fans of Ms. Bowen will enjoy this book as I was pleasantly surprised that in this new series by Radha Vatsal, that my dear Molly will have a friend. If you like/love historical fiction with a little mystery thrown in, then this is the book for you.
The characters are well develop, the story moves along at a nice pace, and will keep you reading long into the night. You might want to call in sick the next day at work. Lol. I love the fact that the character is working for a newspaper in 1910, when women weren’t accepted into this kind of work force. Kitty is assigned to covering “women’s” new, like the latest fashions, society parties, recipes, and who’s who in the world of money, eligibility, and the latest gossip. This isn’t what Kitty saw her doing; she wanted to write about the sinking of the Lusitania, the verge of the US going into WWI, anything that is news worthy.
Kitty is assigned to cover the Independence Day event. While at the celebration, a murder happens. Kitty is overjoyed that she was not only there to break the story, but also to help cover the story. She begins her own investigation into who would kill Hunter Cole, and more importantly, why?
Kitty has a good education, a smart girl, a strong backbone, confident, independent. She can have a temper that would scare a rattlesnake to seek cover, determined and can stand up for herself. She can hold her own against any of her male co-workers, she had dreams. At times she can be a little naïve, immature, headstrong, but all in all, she is an all-around good person.
I am looking forward to the next installment into this series, and I would recommend this to everyone to read, even for just shear enjoyment.
July 19, 2016
3.5 stars. "A Front Page Affair" is the kickoff to a new mystery series set against the background of World War I. The world is changing and Kitty Weeks, our heroine, realizes that there is room for her to change as well. She wants to do more than her fluffy reporting job and when a man is murdered, she may get her chance. This is an exciting start to a new series that I will be watching.
I can't help to make references to the Maisie Dobbs books, which I love. Like in those books, we have a really great heroine that I loved getting to know through this book. Capability "Kitty" Weeks is a woman before her time. I loved seeing how she figured out the clues to solve the mystery at the center of the book. I really liked how sharp she was. I wanted to know a little bit more about her in the book but am hopeful that more light will be shed in future books in the series.
I am always a little apprehensive about reading mysteries because I don't like spoiling endings for myself by figuring things out before the protagonist does but this book had enough twists to keep me on my toes.
I really appreciated all of the historical detail that the author packed into the book. The author creates a really good sense of time that I thoroughly enjoyed! I will definitely be looking forward to the other books in this series!
I can't help to make references to the Maisie Dobbs books, which I love. Like in those books, we have a really great heroine that I loved getting to know through this book. Capability "Kitty" Weeks is a woman before her time. I loved seeing how she figured out the clues to solve the mystery at the center of the book. I really liked how sharp she was. I wanted to know a little bit more about her in the book but am hopeful that more light will be shed in future books in the series.
I am always a little apprehensive about reading mysteries because I don't like spoiling endings for myself by figuring things out before the protagonist does but this book had enough twists to keep me on my toes.
I really appreciated all of the historical detail that the author packed into the book. The author creates a really good sense of time that I thoroughly enjoyed! I will definitely be looking forward to the other books in this series!
May 23, 2016
Incredibly well-researched, but I found the pace to be lagging, bogged down by too many side notes and insignificant happenings in Kitty's life. She herself proved to be an intelligent and likable character, but I found it hard to connect with her, mostly due to her personality being rather up in the air; at times, she was incredibly bold and independent, while at others she acted little better than a school girl. Granted, she is only 19 in this first book and so I suppose the author was trying to adhere to the teenage "who am I?" feeling that pervades anyone of that age, but I was kind of put off by it. The plot was intricate, but there were few characters I liked and that, combined with the slow pace of the book means I probably will not continue with this series. But again, it is VERY well-researched; if you're looking for a mystery that will truly transport you back in time, then this is it.
May 14, 2016
I had seen advertisements of this book and then found an ARC at the Public Library Association Conference in Denver. Kitty Weeks would like to be a journalist, but she needs to prove her mettle. I think she's made a nice start in this first book. I enjoyed the historic NYC setting and appreciated the research of author Radha Vatsal. Let's see what's next for Kitty.
Want to read
May 10, 2017Author Guest Post + Giveaway @ Let Them Read Books!
October 13, 2025
A Front Page Affair by Radha Vatsal is the first book of the Kitty Weeks historical mystery series set in 1915 New York City. Kitty Weeks doesn't want to fit society's expected mold for a woman: strictly a wife and mother. She wants to be a journalist. Only men can report the news, but she begins writing for the Ladies Page of the Sentinel. Sent to cover a garden party, she's present at a murder scene. Since the men reporters are covering J.P. Morgan's shooting, Kitty gets the chance to write about the tragic event from a woman's perspective. Then she gets another major career-building assignment: interview the famous Anne Morgan about her book.
Kitty would love to just do her job. But she's first distracted by social events with her father, later by a mystery involving her father. She has to manage her time compelled by her conscience. Turns out, she was following a good instinct all along - after a harrowing confrontation, all the mysteries are solved.
Icing on her cake: the promise of new journalism assignments to come.
The historical and societal backdrop was clearly well researched; the most appealing aspect of the story. It's as if the author is or has been a newspaper archivist herself, like Mr. Musser in the book.
Kitty observed the proceedings with the nervous tension of a spectator at a tennis match. The only difference was that it was her fate being smacked back and forth across the net.
"The kaiser, King George, and Tsar Nicholas of Russia are all cousins, related through their grandmama, Queen Victoria."
It was one thing to suspect that others didn't care for her, another to have one's guess confirmed.
Kitty found that she became tongue-tied on the rare occasions when she was introduced to an eligible bachelor. The supreme self-confidence of the New York City man unnerved her, as well as his assumption that the world revolved around Manhattan, with a few forays to Harvard or Yale, Groton or Andover. She never knew what to say, and the harder she tried, the more stilted she sounded.
"Girls still believed that "woman's duty is not to work, but simply to exist until such time as she can find someone who will work for her and support her parasitic existence. The harder her struggle the more she considers marriage as an ultimate goal where she can rest from her labors."
Kitty took the bit between her teeth. Neither her questions nor Miss Busby's questions would do. She had to treat Miss Morgan as a person in order to breathe some life into this interview and get behind the public persona.
One could go into journalism to educate and inform, or to uncover the truth. This was Kitty's chance to do the latter. It would come at a high price--abandoning the Anne Morgan interview story.
Kitty caught a glimpse of her reflection in the glass--and that of two men watching her.
With almost a thousand miles of waterfront as measured around the piers, New York's ports surpassed those of London, Hamburg, and Liverpool in foreign trade.
Kitty had read in King's Views of New York, a popular photographic guide to the city, that almost six thousand crafts traversed these waters each day, and three thousand immigrants daily landed at the barge office.
Kitty recalled how surprised she had been to discover that they could cross the Hudson by train or take their car across on a boat, but that no bridge connected New Jersey to Manhattan.
Kitty would love to just do her job. But she's first distracted by social events with her father, later by a mystery involving her father. She has to manage her time compelled by her conscience. Turns out, she was following a good instinct all along - after a harrowing confrontation, all the mysteries are solved.
Icing on her cake: the promise of new journalism assignments to come.
The historical and societal backdrop was clearly well researched; the most appealing aspect of the story. It's as if the author is or has been a newspaper archivist herself, like Mr. Musser in the book.
Kitty observed the proceedings with the nervous tension of a spectator at a tennis match. The only difference was that it was her fate being smacked back and forth across the net.
"The kaiser, King George, and Tsar Nicholas of Russia are all cousins, related through their grandmama, Queen Victoria."
It was one thing to suspect that others didn't care for her, another to have one's guess confirmed.
Kitty found that she became tongue-tied on the rare occasions when she was introduced to an eligible bachelor. The supreme self-confidence of the New York City man unnerved her, as well as his assumption that the world revolved around Manhattan, with a few forays to Harvard or Yale, Groton or Andover. She never knew what to say, and the harder she tried, the more stilted she sounded.
"Girls still believed that "woman's duty is not to work, but simply to exist until such time as she can find someone who will work for her and support her parasitic existence. The harder her struggle the more she considers marriage as an ultimate goal where she can rest from her labors."
Kitty took the bit between her teeth. Neither her questions nor Miss Busby's questions would do. She had to treat Miss Morgan as a person in order to breathe some life into this interview and get behind the public persona.
One could go into journalism to educate and inform, or to uncover the truth. This was Kitty's chance to do the latter. It would come at a high price--abandoning the Anne Morgan interview story.
Kitty caught a glimpse of her reflection in the glass--and that of two men watching her.
With almost a thousand miles of waterfront as measured around the piers, New York's ports surpassed those of London, Hamburg, and Liverpool in foreign trade.
Kitty had read in King's Views of New York, a popular photographic guide to the city, that almost six thousand crafts traversed these waters each day, and three thousand immigrants daily landed at the barge office.
Kitty recalled how surprised she had been to discover that they could cross the Hudson by train or take their car across on a boat, but that no bridge connected New Jersey to Manhattan.
May 12, 2018
This novel is the first in a new series by Radha Vatsal and it is one I will continue to read. The setting is new York City and the year is 1915. The Lusitania has just been sunk, and headlines are splashed across front pages along with news about the Great War. Kitty Weeks has set her heart on being a reporter and she would love to write about the latest world news, but she is stuck on the ladies' page. She is supposed to write a column on a high-society picnic until a man is murdered at the picnic, and, now, she vows to investigate and prove herself as a journalist. She finds herself plunged into the midst of a conspiracy when vials are located in the barn where horses were kept. She has them tested and discovers they are a virus that causes horses to die. She meets two Secret Service agents and together they try to discover who would want horses killed. The U.S. has not yet entered the war and the conspiracy threatens to derail U. S. neutrality. Kitty has just been united with her father after being in boarding school for ten years. She drives a yellow sports car and prizes her independence. She encounters a problem when she learns that her father was involved in the manufacture of what is commonly known as Aspirin. The novel offers a diversion when her father invites her on a trip to America where the visit the World's Fair and then venture to Yellowstone National Park. This adds a sideline to the story that takes the reader on a delightful side trip. But, Kitty is disappointed when a new girl replaces her on the news of the day. Now, she works with the Secret Service agents to solve the problem of what part the horse played in international affairs. This is a great start of a new series that I highly recommend and plan to continue reading.
May 31, 2018
I love a good historical mystery and this one hit the mark!
Kitty Weeks is a determined young woman who wants the be a reporter but instead of real reporting she can only get a job with the ladies page. Society events, clothing, etc is not really her thing so she is excited when she gets a chance at real reporting, because of her being in the right place at the right time.
She had attended an event where a man was murdered and the editor of the newspaper thinks that Kitty has an advantage because she was there and knows the people. She could ask questions and get the scoop, but her boss is not happy. Kitty though is thrilled as it's her real chance to prove she can be a reporter. The more she gets involved in the investigation the more she can't help but want to figure out who committed the crime.
I really liked Kitty as she has a lot of spunk and drive to be what she wants to be and not let a man's world stand in her way. I also like the secondary characters especially the policeman who has a soft spot for Kitty (can't think of his name). I shouldn't have been surprised at who the killer was but I didn't guess it right away.
A Front Page Affair is a fast paced historical mystery and if you enjoy that kind of read then you will enjoy this one too!
Kitty Weeks is a determined young woman who wants the be a reporter but instead of real reporting she can only get a job with the ladies page. Society events, clothing, etc is not really her thing so she is excited when she gets a chance at real reporting, because of her being in the right place at the right time.
She had attended an event where a man was murdered and the editor of the newspaper thinks that Kitty has an advantage because she was there and knows the people. She could ask questions and get the scoop, but her boss is not happy. Kitty though is thrilled as it's her real chance to prove she can be a reporter. The more she gets involved in the investigation the more she can't help but want to figure out who committed the crime.
I really liked Kitty as she has a lot of spunk and drive to be what she wants to be and not let a man's world stand in her way. I also like the secondary characters especially the policeman who has a soft spot for Kitty (can't think of his name). I shouldn't have been surprised at who the killer was but I didn't guess it right away.
A Front Page Affair is a fast paced historical mystery and if you enjoy that kind of read then you will enjoy this one too!
March 14, 2017
Radha Vatsal’s debut novel, A Front Page Affair, takes us to 1915 New York City, as Capability (what a great name!) “Kitty” Weeks is working as a reporter on the fashion and society pages for the New York Sentinel newspaper.
Kitty really wants to cover the hard news stories, something that women just weren’t allowed to do. While covering a society party on Long Island, a man is murdered and Kitty is the only reporter on the scene.
She takes advantage of her position and works to discover why Mr. Cole was murdered. Was he having an affair with a married woman? Did he owe money to someone shady?
As Kitty delves deeper into the murder mystery, she discovers that her father has something he is hiding. The murder mystery may also have something to do with a wartime conspiracy, and Kitty uses her wits and education to unravel the truth.
Kitty Weeks is an intriguing protagonist, and the jailhouse scene is tense and well done. Vatsal’s second book in the series, Murder Between the Lines publishes in May, and her interest in female silent film directors is supposed to be a running theme in her books, which is unique and interesting.
Kitty really wants to cover the hard news stories, something that women just weren’t allowed to do. While covering a society party on Long Island, a man is murdered and Kitty is the only reporter on the scene.
She takes advantage of her position and works to discover why Mr. Cole was murdered. Was he having an affair with a married woman? Did he owe money to someone shady?
As Kitty delves deeper into the murder mystery, she discovers that her father has something he is hiding. The murder mystery may also have something to do with a wartime conspiracy, and Kitty uses her wits and education to unravel the truth.
Kitty Weeks is an intriguing protagonist, and the jailhouse scene is tense and well done. Vatsal’s second book in the series, Murder Between the Lines publishes in May, and her interest in female silent film directors is supposed to be a running theme in her books, which is unique and interesting.
June 20, 2017
Fun! Silly fun - perfect for reading when I needed to get away from everything. A rollicking little mystery about a spunky female reporter at the beginning of the twentieth century in New York City, this book kept me entertained from beginning to end. I love learning a little with my silliness. The tidbits of social history along with the general atmosphere educated me on the time while the mystery deepened and the plot unfurled around me. I quite enjoyed my time with Kitty Weeks!
November 26, 2020
Delightful mystery set in 1915 Manhattan. Our heroine, 19 year old Kitty Weeks is an apprentice journalist writing for the Ladies Page if the fictional Sentinel newspaper. While covering a society 4th of July party at a country club she happens to be there when a murder is committed.
Is this Kitty’s chance to break into hard news reporting?
Fun characters, well researched with an excellent sense of time and place. Looking forward to reading more of this series.
Is this Kitty’s chance to break into hard news reporting?
Fun characters, well researched with an excellent sense of time and place. Looking forward to reading more of this series.
May 1, 2019
This was a fun, easy read about a woman in the early 1900s trying to break into the male dominated newspaper industry. Very interesting period piece.
August 9, 2021
Meh. I read it because I haven’t read anything in such a long time. It was too cheesy with the main character pulling too much out of the air. The best was the mention of the Great Phenol Plot, which I only heard about in my music history class this year.
did-not-finish
July 29, 2024Last of the impulse check outs of historical mysteries--again, just didn't grab me upon initial read.
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