What do you think?
Rate this book
Grace Michelle #1
Grace in the Wings
New York City, 1920. Grace Michelle has everything she wants: a home, a family, and a future career as a costume designer for famed showman Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr.’s Ziegfeld Follies. Pretty good for a girl who once lived on the streets of New York City. But when her sister, Sophia, the star of the show, is murdered, Grace’s safe and protected life is shattered.
Battle-scarred by the war and emotionally scarred by his past, Chet Riker has made it a practice to keep his distance from others; love, after all, leads only to pain. But Chet has a problem—a big one: he’s become indebted to mob-boss Joe Marciano in an attempt to save his estranged mother’s life, and Marciano wants him to pay up or else. Desperate to get the money, he contacts former client Florenz Ziegfeld for work.
Soon, Chet finds himself playing bodyguard for introverted Grace, who has reluctantly agreed to be Ziegfeld’s new leading lady—on the condition that Ziegfeld promises to find Sophia’s killer. Upon meeting Grace, Chet quickly finds his hardened theory that love equals pain tested. Grace, meanwhile, is swept up in a life she never wanted as the Follies’ star, and as the pawn in a series of publicity stunts during a transcontinental train trip to California that puts her life at risk. Who would want her and Sophia dead? Together, she and Chet must confront publicity-hungry Florenz Ziegfeld, power-driven Joe Marciano, and their own pasts to find Sophia’s killer—and let themselves love once again.
Battle-scarred by the war and emotionally scarred by his past, Chet Riker has made it a practice to keep his distance from others; love, after all, leads only to pain. But Chet has a problem—a big one: he’s become indebted to mob-boss Joe Marciano in an attempt to save his estranged mother’s life, and Marciano wants him to pay up or else. Desperate to get the money, he contacts former client Florenz Ziegfeld for work.
Soon, Chet finds himself playing bodyguard for introverted Grace, who has reluctantly agreed to be Ziegfeld’s new leading lady—on the condition that Ziegfeld promises to find Sophia’s killer. Upon meeting Grace, Chet quickly finds his hardened theory that love equals pain tested. Grace, meanwhile, is swept up in a life she never wanted as the Follies’ star, and as the pawn in a series of publicity stunts during a transcontinental train trip to California that puts her life at risk. Who would want her and Sophia dead? Together, she and Chet must confront publicity-hungry Florenz Ziegfeld, power-driven Joe Marciano, and their own pasts to find Sophia’s killer—and let themselves love once again.
344 pages, ebook
Published September 19, 2019
302 people are currently reading
1568 people want to read
About the author
Kari Bovee
36 books751 followersWinner of the 2019 Hillerman Southwest Fiction Award.
Empowered women in history, horses, unconventional characters, and real-life historical events fill the pages of award-winning writer Kari Bovee's historical mystery musings and manuscripts.
Born in northern New Mexico, Kari developed a love of reading, writing, and history early in life. Her most treasured Christmas gift as a young child was a toy typewriter. After graduating with a B.A. in English Literature with an emphasis in Creative Writing, Kari found work as a technical writer at a Fortune 500 tech company. But, her love of story-telling never waned. While staying at home with two young children, Kari wrote her first novel and hasn't stopped. She and her husband live happily in rural Corrales, New Mexico with their horses, dogs, and cats.
Empowered women in history, horses, unconventional characters, and real-life historical events fill the pages of award-winning writer Kari Bovee's historical mystery musings and manuscripts.
Born in northern New Mexico, Kari developed a love of reading, writing, and history early in life. Her most treasured Christmas gift as a young child was a toy typewriter. After graduating with a B.A. in English Literature with an emphasis in Creative Writing, Kari found work as a technical writer at a Fortune 500 tech company. But, her love of story-telling never waned. While staying at home with two young children, Kari wrote her first novel and hasn't stopped. She and her husband live happily in rural Corrales, New Mexico with their horses, dogs, and cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
October 2, 2019
Grace in the Wings
A Grace Michelle Mystery
New York! New York! Ziegfeld Follies, Mary Pickford, Fanny Brice and other real characters and situations show up in this romantic mystery. Grace Michelle and her sister Sophia, are orphans taken in by Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr. These two have blossomed under his care, with Sophia developing into a “Star” and Grace as a worker bee in the sewing department. Grace, having similar attractions as her sister, lacks interest in the bright lights and prefers a less disingenuous way of life. Placed squarely in the middle of that fancy fishbowl, Grace is conflicted as the book opens at Sophia’s wedding to Jack Pickford – yep, that Pickford - brother of Mary. From there, the story swells with romantic interests that include Chet (handsome PI), and villain Joe Marciano (accompanied by requisite thugs), and a number of jealous lovers that cross-hatch their love-tracks over an ever-widening range of amorous opportunities.
Between the cover, and other limbs, a murder happens, sorrow occurs, blood is spilt, corsets are torn, love is discovered on a beach (who knew?) and virginity is lost – not stolen, but almost. Vengeance and vituperation? Indeed. Resolution and reconciliation? You bet! Is your heart palpitating? Of course, it is. Well, I’m keeping the cat in the bag. . . .3.5 stars from me!
A sincere thanks to Kari Bovee, Bosque Publishing and NetGalley for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A Grace Michelle Mystery
New York! New York! Ziegfeld Follies, Mary Pickford, Fanny Brice and other real characters and situations show up in this romantic mystery. Grace Michelle and her sister Sophia, are orphans taken in by Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr. These two have blossomed under his care, with Sophia developing into a “Star” and Grace as a worker bee in the sewing department. Grace, having similar attractions as her sister, lacks interest in the bright lights and prefers a less disingenuous way of life. Placed squarely in the middle of that fancy fishbowl, Grace is conflicted as the book opens at Sophia’s wedding to Jack Pickford – yep, that Pickford - brother of Mary. From there, the story swells with romantic interests that include Chet (handsome PI), and villain Joe Marciano (accompanied by requisite thugs), and a number of jealous lovers that cross-hatch their love-tracks over an ever-widening range of amorous opportunities.
Between the cover, and other limbs, a murder happens, sorrow occurs, blood is spilt, corsets are torn, love is discovered on a beach (who knew?) and virginity is lost – not stolen, but almost. Vengeance and vituperation? Indeed. Resolution and reconciliation? You bet! Is your heart palpitating? Of course, it is. Well, I’m keeping the cat in the bag. . . .3.5 stars from me!
A sincere thanks to Kari Bovee, Bosque Publishing and NetGalley for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2021
[Blog]::[Youtube]::[Twitter]::[Instagram]::[Pinterest]::[Bloglovin]
"Grace in the Wings” is the first book in the Grace Michelle series and was a fun ride reading this murder mystery set in the 1920s.
I have read quite a few of the author’s other novels, like “Bones of the Redeemed” and “Folly at the Fair.” I love the author’s writing style because she has a beautiful style for writing mystery and suspense, irrespective of when the story takes place. In this book, the author introduces Grace and takes us on a ride from New York to California to New Mexico for Grace to find out what happened to her sister Sophia.
Grace is excellent in the lead! The author wrote Grace perfectly to fit with the timeline of the story. I also enjoyed the romance between Grace and Chet. Chet is not who he seems and falls in love with Grace under pretenses. Hence, it was interesting to see how he manages his feelings for her. I also liked Grace’s interactions with Lucile and Fanny.
Moreover, the author also adds adventure elements that make the story exciting. I particularly enjoyed the parts where Grace is riding the horse with Deerhunter and finds herself in danger. There are also some shady characters like Donovan who spice up the story.
However, I wish there were more surprises to the story. The climax was predictable and something which we expected. The story could have been more exciting if the author adds a few more twists and turns.
Nevertheless, it was entertaining and entertained me. Overall, I enjoyed reading “Grace in the Wings” and look forward to the sequel “Grace in Hollywood.”
June 29, 2022
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
I really loved this book! Sophia and Grace Mitchell were living on the streets as young girls because their parents were both killed in an accident. They were taken in by movie producer Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr. When he found the two living on the streets near his theater. He gave them both a job and paid for everything for them growing up. In the meantime, Chet Riker finds himself in need of some work, so he asks Ziegfeld for work. That’s where he met Grace, but she was too endebted to Ziegfeld to pursue anything with anyone. But then those circumstances change after some horrific happenings that leave one murdered and someone responsible. Join Grace and the gang in this awesome read by Kara Bovée.
This is one good read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Most of the characters were amazing, and I loved getting to know them as the story unfolds. Grace was my favorite of all, she had the sweetest caring personality. But on the other hand, I could hardly read about mob-boss Joe Marciano and his goonies, but the bad guys have to be there to create some action and irritate people to make the book better, don’t they? There is so much much to this story, involving Marciano and some of the others I can’t touch on it without giving part of the plot away, so you need to just read for yourself.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I really loved this book! Sophia and Grace Mitchell were living on the streets as young girls because their parents were both killed in an accident. They were taken in by movie producer Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr. When he found the two living on the streets near his theater. He gave them both a job and paid for everything for them growing up. In the meantime, Chet Riker finds himself in need of some work, so he asks Ziegfeld for work. That’s where he met Grace, but she was too endebted to Ziegfeld to pursue anything with anyone. But then those circumstances change after some horrific happenings that leave one murdered and someone responsible. Join Grace and the gang in this awesome read by Kara Bovée.
This is one good read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Most of the characters were amazing, and I loved getting to know them as the story unfolds. Grace was my favorite of all, she had the sweetest caring personality. But on the other hand, I could hardly read about mob-boss Joe Marciano and his goonies, but the bad guys have to be there to create some action and irritate people to make the book better, don’t they? There is so much much to this story, involving Marciano and some of the others I can’t touch on it without giving part of the plot away, so you need to just read for yourself.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
October 17, 2019
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Grace in the Wings is the first book in what is ostensibly a new series by Kari Bovée set in 1920's NYC and the California film industry. Released 19th Sept 2019, it's 348 pages and available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is a murder mystery romance with some thriller overtones. It's set in 1920/21 in New York and California and the plot is peppered with real life characters (Flo Ziegfeld, Hedda Hopper, Mary Pickford, etc) who are woven into the plot with varying degrees of skillfulness. The plot is relatively straightforward and character driven. Main character Grace is a former street kid, taken in by Ziegfeld with her sister Sophia and raised in the theater world under his protection. Despite living on the streets and being raised in the theater world, Grace is a naive virginal damsel (in distress). Enter devastatingly handsome romantic lead guy Chet Riker (stage left), he's a good guy who got on the wrong side of a mobster borrowing money to pay for his estranged mother's surgery.
This could be (and mostly is) a straightforward romance/cozy mystery except for the last half of the book. There's a lot of fairly graphic violence, sexual content (including consensual sex, threatened rape and kidnapping, graphic violence against female characters), drug use, manipulation, etc. I personally found the denouement abrupt and far too convenient.
The writing is unpolished (but promising) and would have benefited from some ruthless editing. Despite the problems with my suspension of disbelief and the 'too much' denouement, I can certainly see this developing into a good period series.
For Kindle Unlimited subscribers; this title is available in the KU subscription to borrow and download for free. It's also worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
Three stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
Grace in the Wings is the first book in what is ostensibly a new series by Kari Bovée set in 1920's NYC and the California film industry. Released 19th Sept 2019, it's 348 pages and available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is a murder mystery romance with some thriller overtones. It's set in 1920/21 in New York and California and the plot is peppered with real life characters (Flo Ziegfeld, Hedda Hopper, Mary Pickford, etc) who are woven into the plot with varying degrees of skillfulness. The plot is relatively straightforward and character driven. Main character Grace is a former street kid, taken in by Ziegfeld with her sister Sophia and raised in the theater world under his protection. Despite living on the streets and being raised in the theater world, Grace is a naive virginal damsel (in distress). Enter devastatingly handsome romantic lead guy Chet Riker (stage left), he's a good guy who got on the wrong side of a mobster borrowing money to pay for his estranged mother's surgery.
This could be (and mostly is) a straightforward romance/cozy mystery except for the last half of the book. There's a lot of fairly graphic violence, sexual content (including consensual sex, threatened rape and kidnapping, graphic violence against female characters), drug use, manipulation, etc. I personally found the denouement abrupt and far too convenient.
The writing is unpolished (but promising) and would have benefited from some ruthless editing. Despite the problems with my suspension of disbelief and the 'too much' denouement, I can certainly see this developing into a good period series.
For Kindle Unlimited subscribers; this title is available in the KU subscription to borrow and download for free. It's also worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
Three stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes
August 7, 2019
Half the book was well written.
I enjoy a thoughtful, well written, character driven mystery. This is just such a book, until the mid-point after which the characters become one-dimensional and the interesting story transforms into a slug-fest filled with violent confrontations. It ends nicely, unconvincingly so.
Orphans Grace Michelle and her sister Sophia, were rescued as young girls from the streets of New York by Florenz Ziegfeld, famed creator of the Ziegfeld Follies. It was not really from the goodness of his heart, he assessed how they might fit into his future. Sophia, the eldest was fashioned into a Ziegfeld headliner. Suddenly, just after being married in Hollywood, Sophia dies under mysterious circumstances and her younger sister, Grace, wants to know the reason. Grace, a talented designer and seamstress finds herself catapulted into the limelight by Ziegfeld who wants her to fill her sister’s shoes - and a better return on his investment. Grace reluctantly and because she feels an obligation to Ziegfeld tries to accommodate him, but always with the aim of finding out the truth of her sisters untimely death.
When it come to light that Sophia might have been murdered and that Grace’s life might be in danger, Ziegfeld assigns a Private Investigator, Chet, to shadow Gracie, as protector. There is chemistry between the two.
The second part of the story goes off the deep end and becomes much more extreme and violent - it looses its nuances. It is dramatic and violent many readers like the action in the conclusion. Unfortunately, I was disappointed.
I enjoy a thoughtful, well written, character driven mystery. This is just such a book, until the mid-point after which the characters become one-dimensional and the interesting story transforms into a slug-fest filled with violent confrontations. It ends nicely, unconvincingly so.
Orphans Grace Michelle and her sister Sophia, were rescued as young girls from the streets of New York by Florenz Ziegfeld, famed creator of the Ziegfeld Follies. It was not really from the goodness of his heart, he assessed how they might fit into his future. Sophia, the eldest was fashioned into a Ziegfeld headliner. Suddenly, just after being married in Hollywood, Sophia dies under mysterious circumstances and her younger sister, Grace, wants to know the reason. Grace, a talented designer and seamstress finds herself catapulted into the limelight by Ziegfeld who wants her to fill her sister’s shoes - and a better return on his investment. Grace reluctantly and because she feels an obligation to Ziegfeld tries to accommodate him, but always with the aim of finding out the truth of her sisters untimely death.
When it come to light that Sophia might have been murdered and that Grace’s life might be in danger, Ziegfeld assigns a Private Investigator, Chet, to shadow Gracie, as protector. There is chemistry between the two.
The second part of the story goes off the deep end and becomes much more extreme and violent - it looses its nuances. It is dramatic and violent many readers like the action in the conclusion. Unfortunately, I was disappointed.
February 27, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this book from iRead Book Tours. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
When a loved one dies under unusual circumstances, it’s not uncommon to go to any lengths to find out what happened to them. Grace did just that regarding the sudden death of her sister, Sophia.
Before Sophia died, she publicly disclosed some shocking revelations. I don’t want to spoil what they were, but it was on the icky side. As more information about Sophia is unveiled, her sister’s (Grace) life becomes in jeopardy. This is the point in the story where readers might encounter “trigger” moments. Let me explain: There are several detailed scenes where a man is severely beating a woman. He also gets violent with another, and rape was insinuated but (thankfully) never occurs.
There were a few components of Grace in the Wings I did enjoy: the dynamic between Chet and Grace and the power of women working together in a specific set of scenes. (No spoilers) The cover is also fantastic. It represents the period perfectly, the 1920s.
Unfortunately, due to the brutality of specific engagements, I dropped my score a couple of points. I’d suggest placing a disclaimer on the book’s summary for potential readers/buyers.
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
July 13, 2019
- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
“Grace in the Wings – A Grace Mystery”, by Kari Bovee, is a well-written historical mystery with an appealing romantic couple and an interesting cast of characters including some historical figures of the 1920s American film and entertainment industry.
I liked Chet Ryker, a kind-hearted hero with a troubled past, who yet isn’t tarnished by it and is surprisingly level headed. I was expecting a male protagonist affected by war, but that dimension was amiss in the story, perhaps it will be explored in the following books. In a way, it was a nice change from the regular tortured hero.
Grace Michelle’s aversion and discomfort with fame and stardom were well handled and refreshing to read. She’s a somewhat shy and reserved person pushed into the limelight that dislikes public exposure and glamour and has other dreams to pursue.
Their attraction is instant, the romance sweet, put on hold by the mystery surrounding the death of Sophie.
An enjoyable read.
“Grace in the Wings – A Grace Mystery”, by Kari Bovee, is a well-written historical mystery with an appealing romantic couple and an interesting cast of characters including some historical figures of the 1920s American film and entertainment industry.
I liked Chet Ryker, a kind-hearted hero with a troubled past, who yet isn’t tarnished by it and is surprisingly level headed. I was expecting a male protagonist affected by war, but that dimension was amiss in the story, perhaps it will be explored in the following books. In a way, it was a nice change from the regular tortured hero.
Grace Michelle’s aversion and discomfort with fame and stardom were well handled and refreshing to read. She’s a somewhat shy and reserved person pushed into the limelight that dislikes public exposure and glamour and has other dreams to pursue.
Their attraction is instant, the romance sweet, put on hold by the mystery surrounding the death of Sophie.
An enjoyable read.
August 13, 2019
This book was actually a lot better than I expected. I really enjoyed the main character because she was innocent and sweet. She was endearing. I could relate with her too because despite her issues with her deceased sister, she loved her and wanted a relationship. My sister reminds me of that character in a lot of ways. I really enjoyed the train ride because it felt like they were really on a train and traveling to California. The authors really gave the setting and characters personality. My only criticism is the climatic moment where all is revealed was very anti-climatic. The book felt like a big build up to some doom and fatal secrets; however, the reality was less dramatic than I anticipated as a reading. Altogether it was an entertaining novel that did suck me into the story with very enjoyable characters, a bit of mystery, and lots of travel.
August 7, 2019
New York 1920 and sisters Sophia and Grace work for Flo Ziegfeld Jr. But Sophia, the star of the show, on marrying, leaves and goes to Los Angles where she is found dead by her husband. Grace needs to know how she dead and heads to L.A. P.I. Chet Ryker, employed by Ziegfeld goes as her bodyguard.
A historical fiction story with romance and just a touch of mystery, not really enough for me. Ryker was a decent hero but I couldn't really take to Grace. Maybe she will improve as the series continues. Overall an enjoyable solid start to what I would hope will be more of a mystery series.
A NetGalley Book
A historical fiction story with romance and just a touch of mystery, not really enough for me. Ryker was a decent hero but I couldn't really take to Grace. Maybe she will improve as the series continues. Overall an enjoyable solid start to what I would hope will be more of a mystery series.
A NetGalley Book
August 26, 2019
A fun mystery set in New York during the fabulous 1920s.
The lives of the rich and famous are shaken when a young starlet is found dead. .
Sweet Grace, sister of the deceased starlet cannot believe that her sister would end her own life; but in proving this Grace finds out that she didn’t know her sister as well as she thought.
There is romance, suspense, some violence and a not so rosy picture of what the film industry was like. Especially for a young woman.
The lives of the rich and famous are shaken when a young starlet is found dead. .
Sweet Grace, sister of the deceased starlet cannot believe that her sister would end her own life; but in proving this Grace finds out that she didn’t know her sister as well as she thought.
There is romance, suspense, some violence and a not so rosy picture of what the film industry was like. Especially for a young woman.
June 24, 2019
If you're a fan of historical fiction, this one's for you! Set in the Roaring 20s, Grace in the Wings combines the glamorous life of the city that never sleeps with darker undertones also representative of this decade. My favorite part of this book was watching how Grace, who didn't want the spotlight, learn to deal with classic show business. This is such a great setting for a mystery!
June 29, 2021
One of the previous books I read by this author - Folly at the Fair - was also a fiction story wrapped around a bit of real history. When using this approach you have the freedom of writing a fictional murder mystery, but also have to do your research to make sure you portray the time, the characters, the places and they way they behave as accurately as possible. It's not easy, but when well done like here, it creates a great atmosphere.
This story has a lot of elements to juggle - orphan sisters taken in by Ziegfield (Sophia to become a star and her younger sister Grace to become a costume designer), the burden of old debts, the death Sophia after she weds and moves to the west coast, a distraught Grace looking for the truth (murder or suicide) and forced to try to fill her sister's shoes on the stage (something she never wanted), a handsome detective named Chet, difficult backstage jealousies, scary interactions with the mob, a trip across the country offering a chance to continue the story in different settings and experience more of the time, a disastrous opening night, a kidnapping and a blossoming love. WHEW!
All through this, we look for answers and hope for the best. Against all odds, will Grace and Chet survive the threats surrounding them, will they find happiness together, and what really did happen to Sophia!
Note - There is one very violent, disturbing chapter in this book where a woman is beaten and keeps coming back for more. Outside of that chapter, the violence gets a lighter hand and is only what is required to tell the story.
This story has a lot of elements to juggle - orphan sisters taken in by Ziegfield (Sophia to become a star and her younger sister Grace to become a costume designer), the burden of old debts, the death Sophia after she weds and moves to the west coast, a distraught Grace looking for the truth (murder or suicide) and forced to try to fill her sister's shoes on the stage (something she never wanted), a handsome detective named Chet, difficult backstage jealousies, scary interactions with the mob, a trip across the country offering a chance to continue the story in different settings and experience more of the time, a disastrous opening night, a kidnapping and a blossoming love. WHEW!
All through this, we look for answers and hope for the best. Against all odds, will Grace and Chet survive the threats surrounding them, will they find happiness together, and what really did happen to Sophia!
Note - There is one very violent, disturbing chapter in this book where a woman is beaten and keeps coming back for more. Outside of that chapter, the violence gets a lighter hand and is only what is required to tell the story.
March 29, 2021
I am voluntarily reviewing this novel after receiving a free copy.
Actual rating: 2.75 stars
This one was a resounding "meh" for me. It describes itself as a sort of murder mystery/female sleuth romance, but it really isn't either of those things. There is very very little actual investigating in this novel. The plot basically unfolds as setup -> train travel -> violent mob stuff, with very little of the murder mystery stuff in between (to the point that I have to keep reminding myself who was even the killer, despite it being a heavy component at the end). The romance is also very weak. There's a strong physical attraction between our leads, but literally nothing romantic between them. They have nothing in common. They don't even like each other for most of the book - they just both act like fussy, immature brats and refuse to communicate like adults. There are really only two moments where they're light and sweet with each other, and one of them is literally right when they get together.
The only real strength of the novel is the period focus. I feel like it was executed well, and it was easy to believe the author did their research. Outside of that, though, I found very little of interest in this novel.
Actual rating: 2.75 stars
This one was a resounding "meh" for me. It describes itself as a sort of murder mystery/female sleuth romance, but it really isn't either of those things. There is very very little actual investigating in this novel. The plot basically unfolds as setup -> train travel -> violent mob stuff, with very little of the murder mystery stuff in between (to the point that I have to keep reminding myself who was even the killer, despite it being a heavy component at the end). The romance is also very weak. There's a strong physical attraction between our leads, but literally nothing romantic between them. They have nothing in common. They don't even like each other for most of the book - they just both act like fussy, immature brats and refuse to communicate like adults. There are really only two moments where they're light and sweet with each other, and one of them is literally right when they get together.
The only real strength of the novel is the period focus. I feel like it was executed well, and it was easy to believe the author did their research. Outside of that, though, I found very little of interest in this novel.
February 16, 2021
When I read in the book, “Grace In the Wings: A 1920’s Grace Michelle Mystery “ that some of the characters were based on real people, I googled them (that’s why it took me so long to read the book). It was fascinating to learn about these rich people and their lives. But back to the book—— I felt sad reading about two orphaned girls, Sophia and Grace Michelle who were taken in from living on the streets of New York by a big musical producer, Flo Ziegfeld Jr., who was supposed to look out for them but instead used them shamefully. The story is a mystery with suspense and romance starting when Sophia marries Mary Pickford’s younger brother and moves to Hollywood. The romance and the suspense were fine, the mystery wasn’t so much a mystery. I thought the person responsible for Sophia’s demise didn’t seem to make sense to me. It was way out of left field to be honest, but the story especially the romance between Grace and PI Chet Riker was still interesting enough to keep me reading. I wonder if this is going to be a series? Regardless, the story was good. I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
March 1, 2023
Grace Under Pressure
Grace Michelle is happy working backstage at the Ziegfeld Follies. Her sister Sophia loves the spotlight and her starring roles. The orphaned pair were found homeless on a New York street and became Flo Ziegfeld's protege.
But Grace's happy life is shattered when Sophia makes a disastrous marriage and ends up dead in Hollywood She refuses to believe her sister was a suicide and vows to find the murderer. Her quest leads her from New York to Hollywood and back again as she discovers unpleasant truths about those she loves that puts her own life at risk.
Kari Bowes shines spotlights on the inner workings of Broadway Theater in the1920s and the early days the film industry. Her cast of characters includes Billie Burke, Fanny Brice, Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Mary Pickford and Hedda Hopper.
This mystery has both the glitz of a Gatsby party and the darkness of a gangster film. The backgrounds and characters make it an interesting time capsule of a tumultuous era.
Grace Michelle is happy working backstage at the Ziegfeld Follies. Her sister Sophia loves the spotlight and her starring roles. The orphaned pair were found homeless on a New York street and became Flo Ziegfeld's protege.
But Grace's happy life is shattered when Sophia makes a disastrous marriage and ends up dead in Hollywood She refuses to believe her sister was a suicide and vows to find the murderer. Her quest leads her from New York to Hollywood and back again as she discovers unpleasant truths about those she loves that puts her own life at risk.
Kari Bowes shines spotlights on the inner workings of Broadway Theater in the1920s and the early days the film industry. Her cast of characters includes Billie Burke, Fanny Brice, Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Mary Pickford and Hedda Hopper.
This mystery has both the glitz of a Gatsby party and the darkness of a gangster film. The backgrounds and characters make it an interesting time capsule of a tumultuous era.
March 5, 2023
Lovely historical fiction!
It took me forever to finish this book! I was continually googling different celebrities from the 1920's and reading about them. The book is delightful in the way real life famous people are woven into the story. I would love to see it on screen: the beautiful costumes and elaborate architecture! It would be a very expensive production, I'm sure.
This book was a fun escape for me. Every bit a whodunit caper, it is still light reading. It's also a romance story, but not heavily so. The 1920's setting helped me forget the world as I know it for awhile. I like the protagonist heroine, so I will be reading more about her in the series. I signed up for a newsletter to get a free prequel to this story.
A nicely written yarn, the author has a way with descriptive words that sometimes read like poetry. I recommend the book to those who want a break, and who love the era of the 1920's.
It took me forever to finish this book! I was continually googling different celebrities from the 1920's and reading about them. The book is delightful in the way real life famous people are woven into the story. I would love to see it on screen: the beautiful costumes and elaborate architecture! It would be a very expensive production, I'm sure.
This book was a fun escape for me. Every bit a whodunit caper, it is still light reading. It's also a romance story, but not heavily so. The 1920's setting helped me forget the world as I know it for awhile. I like the protagonist heroine, so I will be reading more about her in the series. I signed up for a newsletter to get a free prequel to this story.
A nicely written yarn, the author has a way with descriptive words that sometimes read like poetry. I recommend the book to those who want a break, and who love the era of the 1920's.
March 21, 2022
Grace Michelle, an assistant costumer with the Ziegfeld Follies, is tapped to be the star of the show once her sister, Sophia, the real star, dies. Does Grace want the attention? And the notoriety? And how did her sister die - was it accidental? Or murder? Grace vows to find out.
The pacing of Grace in the Wings was sluggish at times, but I was drawn into the story, nonetheless. Set in 1920 amid the glamour of Broadway, Kari Bovee provides great characterization of such luminaries as Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr. and Fanny Brice. Grace also shows growth from being rather too naïve and lacking in self-confidence to a stronger, more confident, version of herself.
I look forward to reading further adventures involving Grace Michelle's sleuthing.
The pacing of Grace in the Wings was sluggish at times, but I was drawn into the story, nonetheless. Set in 1920 amid the glamour of Broadway, Kari Bovee provides great characterization of such luminaries as Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr. and Fanny Brice. Grace also shows growth from being rather too naïve and lacking in self-confidence to a stronger, more confident, version of herself.
I look forward to reading further adventures involving Grace Michelle's sleuthing.
March 1, 2022
I think that this was a very good start to a new historical mystery series. This book showed how many of the men and women in the theatre and film were treated during the 1920s. I liked that we get to meet Grace and learn how she came to be a part of the Ziegfeld Follies along with her sister, Sophia. This story has romance and some mild violence as we see how members of the mob might have played a part in sponsoring some of the Follies. I love the history thrown in and the mystery. Grace is a very good character. I received a copy of this book from ireadbooktour for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
February 16, 2021
I enjoyed this mystery story. This is a new author for me and I look forward to seeing what is next. This is a well developed story that kept me engaged to the end. This is a fast paced story that has characters that made the story fun and entertaining. The twists and turns made you want to see what would happen next. This story takes place in the 1920s and made me feel as if I was there during that time. The characters made this story for me and I highly recommend it.
July 18, 2021
Grace in the Wings by Kari Bovee is the first book in the A Grace Michelle Mystery series---an engaging mystery/thriller with a healthy dash of romance. Set in 1920's New York City and peppered with real life persons and places such as Mary Pickford, Fanny Brice and Ziegfeld Follies, the pace is swift and the story line pulls one in from the start. This is a great start to a new series-- I look forward to more!
December 13, 2020
Great story with real historical characters
Amusing mystery with appearances by many of the famous stars of the Ziegfield Follies. Hopefully Siegfield was not as shallow as he comes across in the story. Here's Hopper was still a working actress in 1920, she did not start her column until around the late thirties.
Amusing mystery with appearances by many of the famous stars of the Ziegfield Follies. Hopefully Siegfield was not as shallow as he comes across in the story. Here's Hopper was still a working actress in 1920, she did not start her column until around the late thirties.
February 23, 2021
A good story, good premise and atmosphere, capture the period well. Writing was good with interesting characters. Some of the dialogue was rather cliched and some of the violence over the top but it is set in the era of the silent movie so that could have been deliberate. Still a very good read overall, a solid 4 stars.
I received a complimentary copy from Hidden Gems and am leaving a
I received a complimentary copy from Hidden Gems and am leaving a
October 24, 2021
glamour, glitz, and murder?!
A very creative and fun story to read. Just enough danger and romance to keep turning the pages! The 1920’s time period is very interesting and I enjoyed reading about those involved in the theater and film. The book kept me guessing up the the very end and the characters were believable and very Interesting!
A very creative and fun story to read. Just enough danger and romance to keep turning the pages! The 1920’s time period is very interesting and I enjoyed reading about those involved in the theater and film. The book kept me guessing up the the very end and the characters were believable and very Interesting!
January 12, 2022
Grace in the Wings is a very good mystery that keeps you guessing as to what happened to Grace Michelle's sister. I loved the theatre setting and being transported to the 1920's New York and Hollywood scene. Grace is a strong character that has a lot of spunk! I look forward to more Grace Michelle books!
February 13, 2023
Grace and Sophia
A fanciful story about two girls that were fostered by the famous Flo Ziegfeld during the wild 1920's. One became a famous Follies star and after her mysterious death the younger sister, Grace, took her place while trying to find out who murdered her older sister. Enjoy meeting the rich and famous of the 20's!
A fanciful story about two girls that were fostered by the famous Flo Ziegfeld during the wild 1920's. One became a famous Follies star and after her mysterious death the younger sister, Grace, took her place while trying to find out who murdered her older sister. Enjoy meeting the rich and famous of the 20's!
December 16, 2022
Grace in the wings
A story presenting the world of entertainment surrounding the Subfield Follies. The fate of the women early in the entertainment business. I was repulsed by. The violence.
A story presenting the world of entertainment surrounding the Subfield Follies. The fate of the women early in the entertainment business. I was repulsed by. The violence.
January 27, 2023
Engrossing!
Wonderful characters and descriptions of New York and Flo Zigfield. Although its fiction, it was exciting to read about the characters of that time period.
Surprising ending!
Wonderful characters and descriptions of New York and Flo Zigfield. Although its fiction, it was exciting to read about the characters of that time period.
Surprising ending!
February 11, 2023
Who killed Sophia and how and why??? Is he a father figure or romantic interest??? I'm glad that I never was or wanted to be an actress!!! If you gamble, don't lose ALL the money!!! I enjoyed this story and recommend the book.
February 14, 2023
An enjoyable cozy set in the 1920s. Convoluted plot. The best part is the characters, especially the historical figures like Flo Ziegfeld, Fanny Brice, Billie Burke, and Mary Pickford. They add such realism to this fictional story.
September 12, 2023
I enjoyed this glimpse of life during the roaring 20’s and loved the inclusion of several notable historic characters. Grace Michelle is a lovely character and I enjoyed seeing her strengthen and mature while facing some extremely challenging circumstances. Definitely a page turner!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews