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Gilded Age Mystery #5
Death, Diamonds, and Deception
For fans of HBO’s The Gilded Age, explore the dark side of the alluring world of America’s 19th century elite in this gripping series of riveting mysteries…
Set amidst the opulent mansions and cobblestone streets of Old New York, this fifth installment in Rosemary Simpson's acclaimed series brings the Gilded Age to life, as heiress Prudence MacKenzie and ex-Pinkerton Geoffrey Hunter dash down a twisted maze from Fifth Avenue to Five Points in pursuit of stolen diamonds once belonging to Marie Antionette ...
Fall 1889: Lady Rotherton has arrived from London intent on chaperoning her niece Prudence through a New York social season to find a suitable husband. It's certainly not her niece's devilishly handsome partner in Hunter and MacKenzie Investigative Law. Aunt Gillian's eye for eligible suitors is surpassed only by her ability to discern genuine gems from nearly flawless fakes. At the Assembly Ball at Delmonico's, she effortlessly determines that the stones in the spectacular diamond waterfall necklace adorning the neck of the wife of banker William De Vries are fake.
Insisting on absolute discretion to avoid scandal, the banker employs Prudence and Geoffrey to recover the stolen diamonds pried out of their settings--priceless stones acquired by Tiffany, originally purchased for Marie Antoinette. Their search for a possible fence rapidly leads to a dead end: a jeweler brutally killed in his shop during an apparent theft.
The jeweler's murder is only the first in a string of mysterious deaths, as Prudence and Geoffrey pursue their elusive quarry. But the clues keep leading back to duplicity on the part of the De Vries family, who, it turns out, have a great deal to hide...
Set amidst the opulent mansions and cobblestone streets of Old New York, this fifth installment in Rosemary Simpson's acclaimed series brings the Gilded Age to life, as heiress Prudence MacKenzie and ex-Pinkerton Geoffrey Hunter dash down a twisted maze from Fifth Avenue to Five Points in pursuit of stolen diamonds once belonging to Marie Antionette ...
Fall 1889: Lady Rotherton has arrived from London intent on chaperoning her niece Prudence through a New York social season to find a suitable husband. It's certainly not her niece's devilishly handsome partner in Hunter and MacKenzie Investigative Law. Aunt Gillian's eye for eligible suitors is surpassed only by her ability to discern genuine gems from nearly flawless fakes. At the Assembly Ball at Delmonico's, she effortlessly determines that the stones in the spectacular diamond waterfall necklace adorning the neck of the wife of banker William De Vries are fake.
Insisting on absolute discretion to avoid scandal, the banker employs Prudence and Geoffrey to recover the stolen diamonds pried out of their settings--priceless stones acquired by Tiffany, originally purchased for Marie Antoinette. Their search for a possible fence rapidly leads to a dead end: a jeweler brutally killed in his shop during an apparent theft.
The jeweler's murder is only the first in a string of mysterious deaths, as Prudence and Geoffrey pursue their elusive quarry. But the clues keep leading back to duplicity on the part of the De Vries family, who, it turns out, have a great deal to hide...
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2020
104 people are currently reading
991 people want to read
About the author
Rosemary Simpson
17 books385 followersRosemary Simpson's What the Dead Leave Behind is set in Gilded Age New York where the Great Blizzard of 1888 brings both disaster and independence to her wealthy and unconventional heroine. Lies that Comfort and Betray is the second in the Gilded Age Mystery series, to be followed by Let the Dead Keep Their Secrets
Rosemary is also the author of two stand-alone historical novels, The Seven Hills of Paradise and Dreams and Shadows.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and the Historical Novel Society. Educated in France and the United States, she now lives near Tucson, Arizona.
Rosemary is also the author of two stand-alone historical novels, The Seven Hills of Paradise and Dreams and Shadows.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and the Historical Novel Society. Educated in France and the United States, she now lives near Tucson, Arizona.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
May 12, 2024
I think this is my favorite book of a terrific series. The author has a wonderful way of writing supporting characters and describing the late 1800's. The age where there were vast differences in the rich and poor. When Simpson writes about the sights of the streets and the buildings I can visualize being there. I guessed the murderer early on, but the book is about how each character is suspect and has flaws. The aunt, Lady Rotherton, was a great addition to this story. I recommend this series (the last book was not my type of book...but that is on me). Will there be romance between the main couple. I hope so. What also is brought out in this book is Prudence is young. only 20. I look forward to the next book.
March 5, 2021
Death, Diamonds, and Deception by Rosemary Simpson is the fifth book in the Gilded Age historical mystery series and is set in New York in late 1889 and early 1890. Prudence MacKenzie’s wealthy father has been dead for a year and she has become a partner in Hunter and MacKenzie Investigative Law with Geoffrey Hunter. However, her aunt, Lady Rotherton arrives from London intent on chaperoning her niece through the social season to find a suitable husband. At the Assembly Ball, Lady Rotherton determines that some of the diamonds in a necklace worn by Lena De Vries are fake. Soon thereafter, William De Vries hires Prudence and Geoffrey to recover the stolen diamonds and who stole them. What ensues is a complicated pursuit of the truth.
Prudence and Geoffrey were likeable characters supported by an array of secondary characters that enhanced the story, but were not fully developed and did not seem to grow. (Part of this could be because I have not read the four previous books in the series.) However, the relationships seemed believable and not contrived. The writing was so descriptive that you could feel that you were actually in the Gilded Age of New York. The street conditions, the social distinctions and interactions, the expectations of women, the parties, the carriages, and much more came alive in Simpson’s descriptive style. However, at times the writing seemed to edge into flowery and slowed down the pace of the story line. Additionally, some of the transitions were not smooth and the story seemed to jump rather than flow. The plot had some twists and turns and a few surprises, but I was able to determine the thief relatively early in the book. There was enough suspense to keep me interested in the outcome, but it dragged for me.
Overall, this was a descriptive historical mystery that was entertaining, but ended somewhat abruptly. If you enjoy historical mysteries, I would recommend starting with the first book in the series rather than jumping in at number five.
Kensington Books and Rosemary Simpson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
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My 3 star review will be posted around Oct. 24, 2020; one month prior to publication.
Prudence and Geoffrey were likeable characters supported by an array of secondary characters that enhanced the story, but were not fully developed and did not seem to grow. (Part of this could be because I have not read the four previous books in the series.) However, the relationships seemed believable and not contrived. The writing was so descriptive that you could feel that you were actually in the Gilded Age of New York. The street conditions, the social distinctions and interactions, the expectations of women, the parties, the carriages, and much more came alive in Simpson’s descriptive style. However, at times the writing seemed to edge into flowery and slowed down the pace of the story line. Additionally, some of the transitions were not smooth and the story seemed to jump rather than flow. The plot had some twists and turns and a few surprises, but I was able to determine the thief relatively early in the book. There was enough suspense to keep me interested in the outcome, but it dragged for me.
Overall, this was a descriptive historical mystery that was entertaining, but ended somewhat abruptly. If you enjoy historical mysteries, I would recommend starting with the first book in the series rather than jumping in at number five.
Kensington Books and Rosemary Simpson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
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My 3 star review will be posted around Oct. 24, 2020; one month prior to publication.
October 30, 2020
When priceless diamonds are stolen socialite Prudence MacKenzie and colleague ex-Pinkerton investigator Geoffrey Hunter takes on the case. A series of mysterious deaths take place, which seem connected to the diamond theft.
Death, Diamonds and Deception is book 5 in A Gilded Age Mystery series by Rosemary Simpson, published by Kensington Publishing Corporation. The story is set in New York 1889 as famous and priceless diamonds are stolen and heiress Prudence MacKenzie and her colleague ex-Pinkerton investigator Geoffrey Hunter investigate the case.
Main character is late judge’s daughter Prudence MacKenzie. She is fiercely independent and not interested in the limitations of marriage. I enjoyed that, and hope such a woman existed in the Gilded Age.
Supporting character ex-Pinkerton investigator, Geoffrey Hunter has the nice guy role. I find it amusing how he pretends not to be romantically interested in Prudence. There is a sweet element of romance between Prudence and Geoffrey in the more quiet parts of the story, which adds interest to the story and what the ending might be.
This plot felt reminiscent of others I have read set in gilded age New York, but it stood out as it offered fascinating extra insight into the lives of the richest of Gilded Age New York. Historical facts were weaved into the expertly written story. It felt like I was a fly on the wall while learning more about diamonds. The story had an amusing, light vibe. I particularly enjoyed the parts describing the relationship between Prudence and her larger-than-life Aunt Gillian. Her character added a slightly surprising and unique element to the story as she did more than chaperone Prudence. Her title, wealth and formidable presence offered Prudence admission to establishments women would normally be unwelcome. Aunt Gillian was my favorite character and I thoroughly enjoyed when she interfered with Prudence’s questioning methods and generally meddled in her attempt at creating a professional life.
The characters felt real and relatable, particularly the hansom cab driver Danny Dennis who had insight into living conditions around Five Points. Descriptions of how life might have been in this part of the city were my least favorite of this story, but added an excellent dramatic effect.
I loved how loose ends were expertly tied together into a dramatic ending fit for a movie. This is the first I have read in this series and it worked perfectly as a standalone. The main characters and the hints to previous plots made me want to start from the beginning of the series and read up on the whole thing.
Anyone who enjoys stories set in Gilded Age and historical fiction is sure to love this one. As will fans of Rosemary Simpson. Similar authors to explore might be Kate Belli or Alyssa Maxwell.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing Corporation and NetGalley for this eARC which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
Conclusion: This is the entertaining story about a diamond theft in Gilded Age New York and a series of murders which seems to connect to it, and secrecy and cover ups within a prominent banker family are revealed. The perfect companion for an afternoon in front of the fire.
Death, Diamonds and Deception is book 5 in A Gilded Age Mystery series by Rosemary Simpson, published by Kensington Publishing Corporation. The story is set in New York 1889 as famous and priceless diamonds are stolen and heiress Prudence MacKenzie and her colleague ex-Pinkerton investigator Geoffrey Hunter investigate the case.
Main character is late judge’s daughter Prudence MacKenzie. She is fiercely independent and not interested in the limitations of marriage. I enjoyed that, and hope such a woman existed in the Gilded Age.
Supporting character ex-Pinkerton investigator, Geoffrey Hunter has the nice guy role. I find it amusing how he pretends not to be romantically interested in Prudence. There is a sweet element of romance between Prudence and Geoffrey in the more quiet parts of the story, which adds interest to the story and what the ending might be.
This plot felt reminiscent of others I have read set in gilded age New York, but it stood out as it offered fascinating extra insight into the lives of the richest of Gilded Age New York. Historical facts were weaved into the expertly written story. It felt like I was a fly on the wall while learning more about diamonds. The story had an amusing, light vibe. I particularly enjoyed the parts describing the relationship between Prudence and her larger-than-life Aunt Gillian. Her character added a slightly surprising and unique element to the story as she did more than chaperone Prudence. Her title, wealth and formidable presence offered Prudence admission to establishments women would normally be unwelcome. Aunt Gillian was my favorite character and I thoroughly enjoyed when she interfered with Prudence’s questioning methods and generally meddled in her attempt at creating a professional life.
The characters felt real and relatable, particularly the hansom cab driver Danny Dennis who had insight into living conditions around Five Points. Descriptions of how life might have been in this part of the city were my least favorite of this story, but added an excellent dramatic effect.
I loved how loose ends were expertly tied together into a dramatic ending fit for a movie. This is the first I have read in this series and it worked perfectly as a standalone. The main characters and the hints to previous plots made me want to start from the beginning of the series and read up on the whole thing.
Anyone who enjoys stories set in Gilded Age and historical fiction is sure to love this one. As will fans of Rosemary Simpson. Similar authors to explore might be Kate Belli or Alyssa Maxwell.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing Corporation and NetGalley for this eARC which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
Conclusion: This is the entertaining story about a diamond theft in Gilded Age New York and a series of murders which seems to connect to it, and secrecy and cover ups within a prominent banker family are revealed. The perfect companion for an afternoon in front of the fire.
November 1, 2020
Death, Diamonds, and Deception is the fifth installment of the Gilded Age Mystery series. It is a wonderful combination of historical fiction and cozy mystery. It is 1885, and New York heiress Prudence MacKenzie and former Pinkerton Geoffrey Hunter are on the case once again as they hunt for rare stolen diamonds. These diamonds may have once been destined for a necklace designed for Marie Antionette.
Prudence is a reluctant part of the upper class in a society dripping with gold, jewels, and privilege. It is a time when marriage, and the right marriage, is expected of young women of her station. Prudence, however, continues to conduct investigations and tries to avoid attempts by her formidable aunt, the Lady Rotherton, to set her up in an advantageous match. At the same time, she is struggling with feelings of love that may threaten her independence. In their search for the diamonds, Prudence and Geoffrey immerse themselves in the decadent world of the elite, and it is so well described that the reader feels as if they have entered this society as well.
The characters are well written, especially Lady Rotherton, an American who married into an English title, whose dynamic and forceful personality grabs the reader’s attention. The mystery is well developed, and the author continually keeps the reader guessing as to the identity of the villain or villains. Interesting anecdotes from history abound, and the reader will learn a lot about 1880s New York and about the customs and practices of the elite and their household staff. Recommended if you like mysteries, the history of the Gilded Age in New York, or historical novels with a touch of romance.
Prudence is a reluctant part of the upper class in a society dripping with gold, jewels, and privilege. It is a time when marriage, and the right marriage, is expected of young women of her station. Prudence, however, continues to conduct investigations and tries to avoid attempts by her formidable aunt, the Lady Rotherton, to set her up in an advantageous match. At the same time, she is struggling with feelings of love that may threaten her independence. In their search for the diamonds, Prudence and Geoffrey immerse themselves in the decadent world of the elite, and it is so well described that the reader feels as if they have entered this society as well.
The characters are well written, especially Lady Rotherton, an American who married into an English title, whose dynamic and forceful personality grabs the reader’s attention. The mystery is well developed, and the author continually keeps the reader guessing as to the identity of the villain or villains. Interesting anecdotes from history abound, and the reader will learn a lot about 1880s New York and about the customs and practices of the elite and their household staff. Recommended if you like mysteries, the history of the Gilded Age in New York, or historical novels with a touch of romance.
January 25, 2024
I'm gobbling these books up in a little over a day because they are so entertaining. We have the glamour of gilded age society along with the grit (which is unapologetically condemned and not romanticized at all) of shady businessmen and desperate strivers.
The romantic subplot has some fun moments, but is also fraught with tension and there's a bit of a cliffhanger ending. Thank goodness the next book is already available.
The romantic subplot has some fun moments, but is also fraught with tension and there's a bit of a cliffhanger ending. Thank goodness the next book is already available.
December 25, 2020
An excellent fifth book of an outstanding series! The characters have become beloved and the stories have been excellent to read and enjoy. This last book has been no exception. The characters are well filled out, and all the protagonists, especially Prudence, have become very dear to the reader,The plot, as usual is easy to follow, but full of twists and turns, so the reader is always one step behind (as in ALL great books). I highly recommend this book, as well as the entire series.
December 28, 2020
Oh, how I love a well written historical mystery with a generous amount of solid background research built into it. It adds interesting detail to the story without allowing the story to be bogged down by it. Author Rosemary Simpson has the balance of this down to a science and entertains the reader with lots of interesting historical facts of 1889 New York City which engages the reader's imagination without overwhelming the reader with excessive detail. This fifth installment in her Gilded Age Mystery series is perfectly balanced in this regard. We catch the glisten of faceted gems as they sparkle in their spectacular settings adorning the décolletage of New York City's grand dames. We hear the rustle of the ladies' gowns as they sidle down a darkened hallway or the muted sound of horse hooves on the straw strewn cobblestone resulting in muted street noise outside a home, with its drapes drawn closed, of a family in mourning. The vignettes are richly described and transport the reader to another time and place.
Certainly Ms. Simpson's fine turn of phrase drew me into the book and her strong female protagonist, Prudence (daughter schooled in law by her father, a judge) held my interest as she put forth an image of a feisty, bright and fearless women in an age where such character was extraordinary. Prudence and her partner, Geoffrey run an investigative law firm. He is a southern gentleman schooled in law and a former Pinkerton man. There's a bit of a spark between them as he tries to steer her away from seemingly dangerous situations but Prudence will have none of it and that's what he so admires about her. She's an independent woman with a strong mind of her own, an admirable trait and simultaneously vexing to Geoffrey.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and do look forward to reading more stories by this gifted author.
I am grateful to author Rosemary Simpson and Kensington Publishing Corp. for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Certainly Ms. Simpson's fine turn of phrase drew me into the book and her strong female protagonist, Prudence (daughter schooled in law by her father, a judge) held my interest as she put forth an image of a feisty, bright and fearless women in an age where such character was extraordinary. Prudence and her partner, Geoffrey run an investigative law firm. He is a southern gentleman schooled in law and a former Pinkerton man. There's a bit of a spark between them as he tries to steer her away from seemingly dangerous situations but Prudence will have none of it and that's what he so admires about her. She's an independent woman with a strong mind of her own, an admirable trait and simultaneously vexing to Geoffrey.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and do look forward to reading more stories by this gifted author.
I am grateful to author Rosemary Simpson and Kensington Publishing Corp. for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
February 22, 2024
Plenty of surprises, twists, and turns in this 5th installment of the series.
Diamonds - stolen Diamonds - stolen very old, very expensive, Tiffany Diamonds.
Murder
Thievery
Lies / Deception
Blinding Character Judgement
Fascinating / Satisfying ending that paves the way right for next book in the series.
I recommend reading the series in order.
Diamonds - stolen Diamonds - stolen very old, very expensive, Tiffany Diamonds.
Murder
Thievery
Lies / Deception
Blinding Character Judgement
Fascinating / Satisfying ending that paves the way right for next book in the series.
I recommend reading the series in order.
December 18, 2020
Death, Diamonds, and Deception is the 5th book in the Gilded Age mystery series, which just keeps getting better with each book. It’s 1889 and Prudence MacKenzie and former Pinkerton agent, Geoffrey Hunter are back investigating in New York City. This time Prudence has a chaperone—her aunt, Lady Rotherton. Since Prudence has no interest in finding a husband, or interest in social activities, she finds her aunt to be something of a hinderance to her private investigation business. But while Lady Rotherton disapproves of Prudence’s business and her partner, she actually comes in handy during their latest investigation. It’s Lady Rotherton who reveals that a priceless waterfall necklace contains fake diamonds, prompting the owner to hire Geoffrey and Prudence to investigate.
Death strikes before they’re able to speak to the first witness, making the case all the more difficult. The investigation takes them to the gritty streets of Five Points and to the glittering ballrooms of 5th Avenue, both of which are beautifully wrought on the page. The mystery is complex. The historical detail is fascinating. It’s a great book to lose yourself in.
Death strikes before they’re able to speak to the first witness, making the case all the more difficult. The investigation takes them to the gritty streets of Five Points and to the glittering ballrooms of 5th Avenue, both of which are beautifully wrought on the page. The mystery is complex. The historical detail is fascinating. It’s a great book to lose yourself in.
December 5, 2020
This series has never been on my top favorites list but I’ve enjoyed it enough to keep reading them. The ends are usually much better than the beginnings as well, and I can forgive a good amount of previous bullshit with a good end. This one, however, did not have an end I enjoyed. Maybe it was supposed to be more realistic but frankly, that argument means nothing to me. It’s fiction. I don’t need realistic in every aspect and when it comes to tying up mysteries, I’m inclined to want justice over whatever’s more realistic.
In addition to all of that, I guessed the villain from basically their first introduction and the feeling only got stronger from there so there wasn’t a whole lot of suspense for me. There honestly wasn’t much to keep me going. The story ought to have been more streamlined as the first half feels disconnected from the second despite the overlapping mystery.
Anyway, as usual, I find Prudence and Geoffrey the weak links of the story. For main characters they don’t have much going for them. Prudence is stupidly stubborn at all the wrong times and Geoffrey lacks personality in pretty much all ways.
In addition to all of that, I guessed the villain from basically their first introduction and the feeling only got stronger from there so there wasn’t a whole lot of suspense for me. There honestly wasn’t much to keep me going. The story ought to have been more streamlined as the first half feels disconnected from the second despite the overlapping mystery.
Anyway, as usual, I find Prudence and Geoffrey the weak links of the story. For main characters they don’t have much going for them. Prudence is stupidly stubborn at all the wrong times and Geoffrey lacks personality in pretty much all ways.
August 18, 2020
Prudence MacKenzie’s domineering Aunt Gillian is in town, and she is determined to escort her niece through the New York City social season and come out at the end with a suitable husband. When she is not husband hunting for her niece, the formidable Lady Rotherton is causing a stir among the elite 400 of New York City’s upper society. At the first Assembly Ball of the season, Lady Rotherton realizes that not all the diamonds in the waterfall necklace hanging around Mrs. De Vries’ neck are real. Soon after the discovery, Mr. De Vries hires Prudence and her partner Geoffrey Hunter to figure out what happened to the real diamonds and determine who stole them. Despite Lady Rotherton not approving of her niece’s occupation as a private investigator, she jumps right into the case alongside her. As the bodies continue to pile up and the hunt for the diamonds turns up more and more sordid details, Prudence and Geoffrey are in a race against the thief/murderer before their bodies join the others in the morgue.
I am a big fan of Prudence and Geoffrey, and I’m always excited to see where their next case takes them. I enjoyed DEATH, DIAMONDS, AND DECEPTION, and I think it is a great addition to the series. It also helps move along the secondary storyline involving Prudence’s relationship with Geoffrey as well as her battle against her former addiction to laudanum. That being said, I think there was a little too much going on in this novel. I lost count of the number of dead bodies that were connected to the missing diamonds. And there seemed to be too many characters involved—not all of which had a satisfactory ending to their individual storylines. Lady Rotherton—Prudence’s Aunt Gillian—came off as a bit hypocritical. She is against Prudence’s involvement in the private detection business and wants her to conform to society, but she had no problem crossing the line and dragging Prudence along with her when it suited her purposes. She also seems like a woman with a lot of secrets. Hopefully the readers will get to learn some of those secrets in upcoming novels. Overall, I enjoyed he novel and I’m looking forward to the next one.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I am a big fan of Prudence and Geoffrey, and I’m always excited to see where their next case takes them. I enjoyed DEATH, DIAMONDS, AND DECEPTION, and I think it is a great addition to the series. It also helps move along the secondary storyline involving Prudence’s relationship with Geoffrey as well as her battle against her former addiction to laudanum. That being said, I think there was a little too much going on in this novel. I lost count of the number of dead bodies that were connected to the missing diamonds. And there seemed to be too many characters involved—not all of which had a satisfactory ending to their individual storylines. Lady Rotherton—Prudence’s Aunt Gillian—came off as a bit hypocritical. She is against Prudence’s involvement in the private detection business and wants her to conform to society, but she had no problem crossing the line and dragging Prudence along with her when it suited her purposes. She also seems like a woman with a lot of secrets. Hopefully the readers will get to learn some of those secrets in upcoming novels. Overall, I enjoyed he novel and I’m looking forward to the next one.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
November 24, 2020
Death, Diamonds, And Deception is the fifth book in the Gilded Age Mystery series by Rosemary Simpson.
I really enjoy this series. Prudence and Geoffrey are well developed and work well together and look out for each other but, at the same time, aren’t overprotective. The writing seems to be accurate for the period(1889).
The story begins with the start of the New York season of society balls, and Prudence’s Aunt Gillian(Lady Rotherton) has arrived in New York City to be Prudence’s chaperone at this season’s balls. Prudence is sure that her aunt wants her to get married and wants to find the perfect gentleman for her to marry. But Prudence is delighted with her single life and enjoys working with Geoffrey in their Hunter and MacKenzie Investigative Law business. Prudence has convinced Geoffrey to be her escort to the Assembly Ball. Aunt Gillian is soon approached by William DeVries, who introduces her to his wife, Lena, wearing an exquisite diamond necklace adorned with diamonds that reputedly belonged to Marie Antonette. Aunt Gillian knows her gems and informs DeVries that some of the diamonds are paste. When DeVries learns that Prudence and Geoffrey do discreet investigations, he hires them to discover who had stolen the diamonds. As they begin their quest, a disreputable jeweler isDeVries murdered at his store. When the DeVries son’s valet is found hung and suspicion begins to appear that the theft was someone involved within the DeVries household, DeVries asks them to stop their investigation. They will privately continue their investigation.
The story is well-written and plotted. There were plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the end.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this exciting series to learn what might be ahead for Prudence and Geoffrey.
I really enjoy this series. Prudence and Geoffrey are well developed and work well together and look out for each other but, at the same time, aren’t overprotective. The writing seems to be accurate for the period(1889).
The story begins with the start of the New York season of society balls, and Prudence’s Aunt Gillian(Lady Rotherton) has arrived in New York City to be Prudence’s chaperone at this season’s balls. Prudence is sure that her aunt wants her to get married and wants to find the perfect gentleman for her to marry. But Prudence is delighted with her single life and enjoys working with Geoffrey in their Hunter and MacKenzie Investigative Law business. Prudence has convinced Geoffrey to be her escort to the Assembly Ball. Aunt Gillian is soon approached by William DeVries, who introduces her to his wife, Lena, wearing an exquisite diamond necklace adorned with diamonds that reputedly belonged to Marie Antonette. Aunt Gillian knows her gems and informs DeVries that some of the diamonds are paste. When DeVries learns that Prudence and Geoffrey do discreet investigations, he hires them to discover who had stolen the diamonds. As they begin their quest, a disreputable jeweler isDeVries murdered at his store. When the DeVries son’s valet is found hung and suspicion begins to appear that the theft was someone involved within the DeVries household, DeVries asks them to stop their investigation. They will privately continue their investigation.
The story is well-written and plotted. There were plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the end.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this exciting series to learn what might be ahead for Prudence and Geoffrey.
May 15, 2023
I am still very much enjoying this series. The author has a very good way with both plots and characters.
I like that this author has continued to come up with unique and interesting plots for her characters and the world they inhabit that make sense for the private inquiry agency they are running in Gilded Age New York City. At book 5 I have been fully engaged in each next plot as much as the previous book which is harder than it seems with a continuing series so I applaud the author for her creativity.
The stories also leverage the Gilded Age in which they are set and there is always description of the houses, parties, clothes, jewelry, etc. which made up so much of the lives of the well-off at this time. The descriptions are just enough to give a reader a feel for what it was like for these people (as well as the less well-off folks, many of whom are working for, and helped by Geoffrey and Prudence which I also like) but it isn't overwhelming or excessive such that it takes over from the investigation which is the main storyline.
I enjoyed meeting Prudence's aunt from Britain in this book, even though she doesn't approve of Prudence's life choices. She was an interesting character.
I do wish Prudence and Geoffrey could sort out what their personal relationship is going to be. I like a "will they; won't they" story as much as the next reader, but at some point you have to, as the less cultured say: "sh*t or get off the pot!" and I feel like book 5 is that point for me with that aspect of Prudence and Geoffrey's relationship. The sort of cliff-hanger at the end of this book left me with hope that this will be resolved soon so my fingers are crossed.
But overall I really enjoy each new book in this series and definitely plan to continue reading it.
I like that this author has continued to come up with unique and interesting plots for her characters and the world they inhabit that make sense for the private inquiry agency they are running in Gilded Age New York City. At book 5 I have been fully engaged in each next plot as much as the previous book which is harder than it seems with a continuing series so I applaud the author for her creativity.
The stories also leverage the Gilded Age in which they are set and there is always description of the houses, parties, clothes, jewelry, etc. which made up so much of the lives of the well-off at this time. The descriptions are just enough to give a reader a feel for what it was like for these people (as well as the less well-off folks, many of whom are working for, and helped by Geoffrey and Prudence which I also like) but it isn't overwhelming or excessive such that it takes over from the investigation which is the main storyline.
I enjoyed meeting Prudence's aunt from Britain in this book, even though she doesn't approve of Prudence's life choices. She was an interesting character.
I do wish Prudence and Geoffrey could sort out what their personal relationship is going to be. I like a "will they; won't they" story as much as the next reader, but at some point you have to, as the less cultured say: "sh*t or get off the pot!" and I feel like book 5 is that point for me with that aspect of Prudence and Geoffrey's relationship. The sort of cliff-hanger at the end of this book left me with hope that this will be resolved soon so my fingers are crossed.
But overall I really enjoy each new book in this series and definitely plan to continue reading it.
July 20, 2024
3 1/2 stars.
From the opulent 400 to the squalid desperation of Five Points, the book was filled with the historical details that made the Gilded Age New York live. It was also rich in the dynamism of the mix of cultures, races, color and extremes that made up the melting pot of New York City. It was a little harder to believe that a wealthy young woman who came from the highest levels of society would partner in a detective agency and was still accepted in society (but a little bit of suspension of disbelief is often key in fiction and where many small towns in cozies have a murder rate per capita that outdo most cities, the book is in good company).
It was a good mystery filled with interesting characters and a plot perfect for this time period which is still very identifiable today. I loved Aunt Gillian and hope she may show up in another book. Prudence and Geoffrey had good chemistry which complemented each other in the sleuthing. An exciting ending kept my heart pounding. I only wished there had been some follow-up at the end about a central character to the mystery (I won't mention the name to ensure there will be no spoilers); it felt as if a thread was left hanging.
Overall, a good read. Sign me up for more of this series.
I received a free copy of this book thanks to Netgalley.com and the publisher in return for a fair and impartial review.
From the opulent 400 to the squalid desperation of Five Points, the book was filled with the historical details that made the Gilded Age New York live. It was also rich in the dynamism of the mix of cultures, races, color and extremes that made up the melting pot of New York City. It was a little harder to believe that a wealthy young woman who came from the highest levels of society would partner in a detective agency and was still accepted in society (but a little bit of suspension of disbelief is often key in fiction and where many small towns in cozies have a murder rate per capita that outdo most cities, the book is in good company).
It was a good mystery filled with interesting characters and a plot perfect for this time period which is still very identifiable today. I loved Aunt Gillian and hope she may show up in another book. Prudence and Geoffrey had good chemistry which complemented each other in the sleuthing. An exciting ending kept my heart pounding. I only wished there had been some follow-up at the end about a central character to the mystery (I won't mention the name to ensure there will be no spoilers); it felt as if a thread was left hanging.
Overall, a good read. Sign me up for more of this series.
I received a free copy of this book thanks to Netgalley.com and the publisher in return for a fair and impartial review.
November 25, 2020
It would be time for the author to decide the direction to be taken in the story between Prudence and Geoffrey, because their behavior, especially when they are together, is becoming particularly annoying and this is not good for the rhythm of the story or the crime they are supposed to solve. I liked the initial stories more and I am not so motivated to continue the series....
Sarebbe ora che l'autrice decidesse la piega da dare alla storia tra Prudence e Geoffrey, perché il loro comportamento, specialmente quando sono insieme, sta diventando particolarmente fastidioso e questo non giova né al ritmo della storia né al crimine che dovrebbero risolvere. Le storie iniziali mi piacevano di piú e non sono poi così tanto motivata a proseguire la serie....
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
Sarebbe ora che l'autrice decidesse la piega da dare alla storia tra Prudence e Geoffrey, perché il loro comportamento, specialmente quando sono insieme, sta diventando particolarmente fastidioso e questo non giova né al ritmo della storia né al crimine che dovrebbero risolvere. Le storie iniziali mi piacevano di piú e non sono poi così tanto motivata a proseguire la serie....
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
December 11, 2020
1889 New York and Prudence Mackenzie has to grind her teeth and bear with the Lady Rotherton her Aunt from England who has come to especially escort and chaperone her on a season which hopefully (in her aunt's opinion) end up with a good match.
For Prudence marriage is really not on her mind, not with those whom her aunt is associating with. Having solved one murder with the Pinkerton Agency, Prudence wants to use the intelligence she has been blessed with to do something with her life rather than a life of dances, balls and basicaly doing nothing.
When a diamond necklace reputed to belong to Marie Antoinette is found to contain fake diamonds, the Agency is called in to discreetly follow up because the man who purchased the necklace believes the rogues are close to home in the form of his step son. Enquiries are put in place and when death comes closer it is obvious that someone does not really want too much of investigations to take place. Murder follows murder, followed by accidental deaths which seemed too coincidental to be accident and the pace hots up. All this amidst a huge social season.
Very good detective work in the format of the era, alongside a budding romance and all the glamour of a New York season rolled into one. Very riveting read.
For Prudence marriage is really not on her mind, not with those whom her aunt is associating with. Having solved one murder with the Pinkerton Agency, Prudence wants to use the intelligence she has been blessed with to do something with her life rather than a life of dances, balls and basicaly doing nothing.
When a diamond necklace reputed to belong to Marie Antoinette is found to contain fake diamonds, the Agency is called in to discreetly follow up because the man who purchased the necklace believes the rogues are close to home in the form of his step son. Enquiries are put in place and when death comes closer it is obvious that someone does not really want too much of investigations to take place. Murder follows murder, followed by accidental deaths which seemed too coincidental to be accident and the pace hots up. All this amidst a huge social season.
Very good detective work in the format of the era, alongside a budding romance and all the glamour of a New York season rolled into one. Very riveting read.
Read
January 21, 2025This is the fifth book in this wonderful series. The book is set firmly in the time, which is late 19 century. It illustrates the era, the City of New York, the societal pressures and what it was like to live in New York at this time. The secrets hidden in the large mansions are many and dangerous enemies are close. Prudence and Geoffrey put themselves in danger while trying to get to the bottom of what starts out as a theft of a priceless diamond necklace. This is a wonderful series for those who like historical mysteries.
February 24, 2021
3.5 STARS
In the beginning, I was apprehensive about the introduction of Prudence's aunt, but she ended up being one of my favorite aspects of this installment. I enjoyed the mystery and all the secondary characters. Sadly, the relationship between Geoffrey and Prudence seemed to make little progress, as is common with this genre. The ending was killer, and no doubt I will be reading the next installment.
"Everyone has secrets...Even the dead."
In the beginning, I was apprehensive about the introduction of Prudence's aunt, but she ended up being one of my favorite aspects of this installment. I enjoyed the mystery and all the secondary characters. Sadly, the relationship between Geoffrey and Prudence seemed to make little progress, as is common with this genre. The ending was killer, and no doubt I will be reading the next installment.
"Everyone has secrets...Even the dead."
June 6, 2024
Enjoyable Gilded Age historical mystery. I enjoy the character development from book to book and the clear look at society, both high and low. There are lots of suspects in the theft of priceless diamonds and their replacement with paste gems, especially when the coverup murders start to pile up. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
August 26, 2021
Ahhhh a cliffhanger! I’ll have to get the next one
August 1, 2022
I really enjoy this series but man the slow burn romance is getting to me! LOL.
November 23, 2024
Really good read. Just Carries you along.
January 12, 2021
Well that was unsatisfying....
July 29, 2020
This story did not lack in details. Which unfortunately, made it hard for me to stay interested. Sometimes, less is more especially when you have to wade through pages of setting and unnecessary dialogue to get to anything that really moves the story along. Due to this, I found myself skimming pages here and there when things were being mentioned that weren't integral to the plot. Now don't get me wrong, this was an intriguing premise, and I understand just how hard it can be to get any solid leads when conducting an investigation (especially when some people are less than forthcoming), but this one just went above and beyond.
Not only did the scenes jump from one person and place to another quickly becoming annoying and off-putting to me as a reader, but the sheer number of players in this game added to the overall confusion. Eventually, one name blurred into then next until (with the exception of the women) I lost track of who was who.
Speaking of the females of this novel, I thoroughly enjoyed both Prudence and her Aunt. Prudence for turning her back (more or less) on what was expected of her in order to chase her own desires, and her Aunt for being the kind of no-holds-barred woman that demands answers while commanding respect.
Sadly however, even as strong as those two were, they weren't enough to save this novel. Especially when the author chose to end it not only seemingly on a cliff-hanger in regards to one plot-line, but also chose to give some of the other characters wholly unfulfilling endings (where she chose to give them endings at all). After everything I felt like it was a slap in the face to the reader with the way things were done.
All things considered, I may give this author another chance down the road.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
Not only did the scenes jump from one person and place to another quickly becoming annoying and off-putting to me as a reader, but the sheer number of players in this game added to the overall confusion. Eventually, one name blurred into then next until (with the exception of the women) I lost track of who was who.
Speaking of the females of this novel, I thoroughly enjoyed both Prudence and her Aunt. Prudence for turning her back (more or less) on what was expected of her in order to chase her own desires, and her Aunt for being the kind of no-holds-barred woman that demands answers while commanding respect.
Sadly however, even as strong as those two were, they weren't enough to save this novel. Especially when the author chose to end it not only seemingly on a cliff-hanger in regards to one plot-line, but also chose to give some of the other characters wholly unfulfilling endings (where she chose to give them endings at all). After everything I felt like it was a slap in the face to the reader with the way things were done.
All things considered, I may give this author another chance down the road.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
September 26, 2020
Omg! Talk about a cliff hanger. This book was filled with all the pomp and circumstance of the late 1800's. It is after the Civil War in America and the country try is slowly winding it's way back up after the devastation of the war. Our heroine is an upper crust "dollar princess" whose dowager aunt is trying to get her onto the marriage market. But our heroine, while jumping through hoops for her aunt, still has her private life as a private investigator with our hero. The hero hails from the South and has moved to the North because in the aftermath of the War, his ideals and morals have changed. He doesn't feel the same as the other Southerners and is trying to carve out a place for him in his private investigation business that he shares with our heroine. He loves our heroine, but she loves her independence. She is going along with her aunt only to pacify her because of her heritage. This book moves a little slow because of all the descriptive verse of the author to place the reader in her story. I truly enjoyed be immersed in this tale, until the last few paragraphs. It is a cliff hanger. There is no end. It JUST STOPS. The hero is getting ready to ask the heroine to be his although his condition isn't the best, the heroine has just told him she has to go to England for the marriage mart and the book stops. They both love each other. But they never admit it and he never asks her. It just stops. I rate the book negative 20 stars because the book just stops. I just wasted all that time, reading this book and the author doesn't even reward the reader by giving the book an ending?? How disrespectful to the reader. As a reader we spend more than money to buy a book. We spend time and brain cells and the author has the nerve to just stop writing?? Do not buy this book unless you want to be disappointed. I have to give it 1 star because that is the lowet
September 28, 2020
4.5/5⭐️
Fifth in a mystery series that I love. And even though I had deduced the villain before the end, their just desserts were especially satisfying.
Geoffrey and Prudence are hired to locate some stolen rare diamonds along with the thief. Deaths follow and a whole slew of would-be thieves/murderers abound.
The plot was well rendered with some twists and blind alleys, the writing had a good flow, and wonderfully developed leads as well as their secondary cast. I’m happy that this series is progressing so nicely. Definitely recommend.
My thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for providing me the ARC. The opinions are wholly my own.
Fifth in a mystery series that I love. And even though I had deduced the villain before the end, their just desserts were especially satisfying.
Geoffrey and Prudence are hired to locate some stolen rare diamonds along with the thief. Deaths follow and a whole slew of would-be thieves/murderers abound.
The plot was well rendered with some twists and blind alleys, the writing had a good flow, and wonderfully developed leads as well as their secondary cast. I’m happy that this series is progressing so nicely. Definitely recommend.
My thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for providing me the ARC. The opinions are wholly my own.
December 4, 2020
Seriously, what reader did not have the murderer figured out from the first chapter? The setting is interesting, the bits and bobs of latter-day New York culture are interesting, the characters are fairly derivative and the ending is lacking entirely. I downloaded the book through Kindle, and kept trying to locate the last page - because what was included as the last page seemed to be chopped from the next to last chapter. Anyone who writes a book is due credit for their efforts, but this was not a series that I would explore further.
April 21, 2021
This is first book I read in the series. I would have liked more interaction (romance) between two main characters but mystery was good with lots of twists.
November 29, 2024
This was a great book, on to the next in the series.
November 18, 2020
Fall 1889: Lady Rotherton has arrived from London intent on chaperoning her niece Prudence through a New York social season to find a suitable husband. It's certainly not her niece's devilishly handsome partner in Hunter and MacKenzie Investigative Law. Aunt Gillian's eye for eligible suitors is surpassed only by her ability to discern genuine gems from nearly flawless fakes. At the Assembly Ball at Delmonico's, she effortlessly determines that the stones in the spectacular diamond waterfall necklace adorning the neck of the wife of banker William De Vries are fake.
Insisting on absolute discretion to avoid scandal, the banker employs Prudence and Geoffrey to recover the stolen diamonds pried out of their settings--priceless stones acquired by Tiffany, originally purchased for Marie Antoinette. Their search for a possible fence rapidly leads to a dead end: a jeweler brutally killed in his shop during an apparent theft.
The jeweler's murder is only the first in a string of mysterious deaths, as Prudence and Geoffrey pursue their elusive quarry. But the clues keep leading back to duplicity on the part of the De Vries family, who, it turns out, have a great deal to hide...
I almost stopped reading this series after the last book Death Brings a Shadow, but now I'm glad I didn't. This was probably my second favorite book in the series. I enjoyed reading about Prudence and Geoffrey in this book. Prudence was less annoying and reckless than she was in the last book. I was happy that there seemed to be some positive character growth for her, and Geoffrey is beginning to realize that he needs to accept that she isn't going to take a back seat in the investigations, no matter how dangerous they might be. Also, Prudence's aunt who was visiting from London was an interesting character, even though she could be a bit of a snob, and I really enjoyed reading Josiah's thoughts regarding Prudence and Geoffrey.
I thought the mystery in this one was quite good. Though I figured out one element of the mystery early on, part of it kept me guessing for most of the book. This time around there was no real big historical event tied to the book, but that was ok. The author notes in her afterward that the Marie Antoinette diamonds were completely made up by her. Regardless, it was a good plot devise. Keeley's Gold Cure for Alcoholism that was talked about in the book was a real thing however. After reading up on it, it sounded like a money making scheme to me.
My one big complaint about this book is the way it ends. Just when something I've been waiting for seems about to happen, it ends and now I have have to wait another year to find out what happened. That was so frustrating!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Insisting on absolute discretion to avoid scandal, the banker employs Prudence and Geoffrey to recover the stolen diamonds pried out of their settings--priceless stones acquired by Tiffany, originally purchased for Marie Antoinette. Their search for a possible fence rapidly leads to a dead end: a jeweler brutally killed in his shop during an apparent theft.
The jeweler's murder is only the first in a string of mysterious deaths, as Prudence and Geoffrey pursue their elusive quarry. But the clues keep leading back to duplicity on the part of the De Vries family, who, it turns out, have a great deal to hide...
I almost stopped reading this series after the last book Death Brings a Shadow, but now I'm glad I didn't. This was probably my second favorite book in the series. I enjoyed reading about Prudence and Geoffrey in this book. Prudence was less annoying and reckless than she was in the last book. I was happy that there seemed to be some positive character growth for her, and Geoffrey is beginning to realize that he needs to accept that she isn't going to take a back seat in the investigations, no matter how dangerous they might be. Also, Prudence's aunt who was visiting from London was an interesting character, even though she could be a bit of a snob, and I really enjoyed reading Josiah's thoughts regarding Prudence and Geoffrey.
I thought the mystery in this one was quite good. Though I figured out one element of the mystery early on, part of it kept me guessing for most of the book. This time around there was no real big historical event tied to the book, but that was ok. The author notes in her afterward that the Marie Antoinette diamonds were completely made up by her. Regardless, it was a good plot devise. Keeley's Gold Cure for Alcoholism that was talked about in the book was a real thing however. After reading up on it, it sounded like a money making scheme to me.
My one big complaint about this book is the way it ends. Just when something I've been waiting for seems about to happen, it ends and now I have have to wait another year to find out what happened. That was so frustrating!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing me with an ARC of this book.
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