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The Wicked City #3
The Wicked Widow
Gin Kelly, the wicked redhead, is back! Readers will delight in next installment of the Wicked City series by New York Times bestselling author Beatriz Williams.
June 1925. Audacious Appalachian flapper Geneva “Gin” Kelly prepares to trade her high-flying ways for respectable marriage to Oliver Anson Marshall, a steadfast Prohibition agent who happens to hail from one of New York’s most distinguished families. But just as wedding bells chime, the head of the notorious East Coast rum-running racket—and Anson’s mortal enemy—turns up murdered at a society funeral, and their short-lived honeymoon bliss goes up in a spectacular blaze that sends Anson back undercover...and into the jaws of a trap from which not even Gin can rescue him. As violence explodes around her, Gin must summon all her considerable moxie to trace the tentacles of this sinister organization back to their shocking source, and face down a legendary American family at a rigged game it has no intention of losing.
June 1998. When Ella Dommerich’s ninetysomething society queen aunt Julie ropes her into digging up dirt on Senator (and Presidential candidate) Franklin Hardcastle in order to settle old family scores, she couldn’t be less enthusiastic. Pregnant Ella’s recently ditched her unfaithful husband and settled into cozy—if complicated—domesticity with her almost-too-good-to-be-true musician boyfriend, Hector. But then the Hardcastle secrets lead to a web of shady dealings Ella’s uncovered in her job as a financial analyst, and the bodies start to tumble out of the venerable woodwork. With the help of her ex-husband and her mysterious connection to a certain redheaded flapper, Ella digs up more than mere dirt…only to discover herself standing alone between a legendarily ruthless family and the prize it’s sought for generations.
What ugly secrets lurk in the opulent enclaves—and bank accounts--of America’s richest families? And can two determined women from two different generations thwart the murderous legacy of the demon liquor?
June 1925. Audacious Appalachian flapper Geneva “Gin” Kelly prepares to trade her high-flying ways for respectable marriage to Oliver Anson Marshall, a steadfast Prohibition agent who happens to hail from one of New York’s most distinguished families. But just as wedding bells chime, the head of the notorious East Coast rum-running racket—and Anson’s mortal enemy—turns up murdered at a society funeral, and their short-lived honeymoon bliss goes up in a spectacular blaze that sends Anson back undercover...and into the jaws of a trap from which not even Gin can rescue him. As violence explodes around her, Gin must summon all her considerable moxie to trace the tentacles of this sinister organization back to their shocking source, and face down a legendary American family at a rigged game it has no intention of losing.
June 1998. When Ella Dommerich’s ninetysomething society queen aunt Julie ropes her into digging up dirt on Senator (and Presidential candidate) Franklin Hardcastle in order to settle old family scores, she couldn’t be less enthusiastic. Pregnant Ella’s recently ditched her unfaithful husband and settled into cozy—if complicated—domesticity with her almost-too-good-to-be-true musician boyfriend, Hector. But then the Hardcastle secrets lead to a web of shady dealings Ella’s uncovered in her job as a financial analyst, and the bodies start to tumble out of the venerable woodwork. With the help of her ex-husband and her mysterious connection to a certain redheaded flapper, Ella digs up more than mere dirt…only to discover herself standing alone between a legendarily ruthless family and the prize it’s sought for generations.
What ugly secrets lurk in the opulent enclaves—and bank accounts--of America’s richest families? And can two determined women from two different generations thwart the murderous legacy of the demon liquor?
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 351 reviews
November 18, 2021
Beatriz Williams is one of my favorite authors. Historical fiction fans simply must read her books. Most of her books involve the fictional and engaging world of the Schuyler family. The family is included as major characters in some of Williams’ books and in others, members of the family make guest appearances. In The Wicked City Series, the main character is Geneva “Gin” Kelly, a fast-talking, free-loving flapper who we met in Book 1, The Wicked City and whose escapades continued in Book 2, The Wicked Redhead. In Book 3, The Wicked Widow, Gin is back. It’s 1925 and Prohibition continues. Anson, the love of her life, is ready to leave his job as a Prohibition enforcement special agent as lives continue to be lost at the hands of the notorious East Coast bootlegging syndicate and he’s hoping to settle down with Gin.
The story alternates and takes us to 1998. Modern-day Ella Dommerich (a member of the illustrious Schuyler family) is living in Greenwich Village in the same building Gin had resided. Ella has left her adulterous husband, father of her unborn child, and has moved in with her new love. The legacy of an old crime figure from the days of Prohibition may have impacted Ella’s world. She seeks to uncover the mystery which includes a possible connection to a presidential candidate who was once married to one of the Schuylers.
What I enjoy most about the series is the free-spirited nature of Gin Kelly and her snappy dialogue, very much capturing the feel of the 1920s. Williams clearly adores writing this character and it comes through. She’s a woman who speaks her mind and uses her sexuality in a non-apologetic way. You might not agree with everything she does, but you’ll root for her. And Ella is another appealing character who is caught in a difficult situation being pregnant by an unfaithful husband who continues to declare his love for her. I highly recommend reading all three books in the series. They are fast-moving and fun in a “don’t take this all too seriously” manner although there is crime, murder and intrigue throughout.
Will there be a Book 4? You’ll have to wait and see.
Rated 4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
The story alternates and takes us to 1998. Modern-day Ella Dommerich (a member of the illustrious Schuyler family) is living in Greenwich Village in the same building Gin had resided. Ella has left her adulterous husband, father of her unborn child, and has moved in with her new love. The legacy of an old crime figure from the days of Prohibition may have impacted Ella’s world. She seeks to uncover the mystery which includes a possible connection to a presidential candidate who was once married to one of the Schuylers.
What I enjoy most about the series is the free-spirited nature of Gin Kelly and her snappy dialogue, very much capturing the feel of the 1920s. Williams clearly adores writing this character and it comes through. She’s a woman who speaks her mind and uses her sexuality in a non-apologetic way. You might not agree with everything she does, but you’ll root for her. And Ella is another appealing character who is caught in a difficult situation being pregnant by an unfaithful husband who continues to declare his love for her. I highly recommend reading all three books in the series. They are fast-moving and fun in a “don’t take this all too seriously” manner although there is crime, murder and intrigue throughout.
Will there be a Book 4? You’ll have to wait and see.
Rated 4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
March 3, 2022
The Wicked Widow was the third book in the The Wicked City series by Beatriz Williams featuring the return of the notorious red-haired flapper from Appalachia at the height of Prohibition in 1925 and the steadfast Prohibition Agent Oliver Anson Marshall. This book highlights the dangers and corruption inherent in rum-running from the heart of New York City to Lake Champlain in the Adirondacks as the smugglers are running illegal rum. This is also an ongoing saga of the Schuyler and the Hardcastle families as scandal and mysteries abound.
The book has a dual timeline, not only with Ginger Kelly during the Prohibition era but a contemporary timeline with Ella in 1998, one of the ties between the two time periods is a four-story apartment on Christopher Street in the heart of Manhattan where Ginger Kelly and Ella both have strong and mysterious ties. It is clear that there will be another installment in The Wicked City series. The author states that as she was doing voluminous research on the complicated history of Prohibition and its consequences that extends for decades, even past the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, she realized that she had enough research to cover many books. I will be waiting for the fourth book because Ginger Kelly will most likely be returning as it is apparent that she is a favorite character of Beatriz Williams.
The book has a dual timeline, not only with Ginger Kelly during the Prohibition era but a contemporary timeline with Ella in 1998, one of the ties between the two time periods is a four-story apartment on Christopher Street in the heart of Manhattan where Ginger Kelly and Ella both have strong and mysterious ties. It is clear that there will be another installment in The Wicked City series. The author states that as she was doing voluminous research on the complicated history of Prohibition and its consequences that extends for decades, even past the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, she realized that she had enough research to cover many books. I will be waiting for the fourth book because Ginger Kelly will most likely be returning as it is apparent that she is a favorite character of Beatriz Williams.
August 23, 2025
And thus finishes the trilogy that began with the Wicked City. I have now listened to all three this year on Audio and this makes the 6th, 7th, or possibly 8th Beatriz Williams book I have read this year. She unwittingly became my author of the year, and I discovered only because of this proximity of stories, how all of her characters and settings were connected. I did not make the connection in Book One, to the Scuyler Family, nor to Windemere Island, but all of our characters, storylines, and places are back. And its wonderful to be in her world.
Williams is a fabulous storyteller, and her characters, especially Gin Kelly, they have sass and spunk! She is the heart of the book. Of course balanced by her counterpart Ella, who in the late 90's is trying to uncover the secrets of the past, at the same time as her life is a mess, and trying to figure out how to do the right thing and feel that she is on an honorable path. Thats the thing Gin is trying to tell us (also Beatriz). She says often, we are all sinners, and I think all of these characters have some blurred lines. But you do what you need to, for love, for honor, for country, for family, for yourself, and somehow, you forgive yourself for those blurs because we are all sinners trying our best somehow to live closer to better, while fighting for ourselves and the ones we love.
By the end of the trilogy, both couples are going strong and have reached resolve. I did wish to know a little more at the end of how it all played out, but perhaps other of Beatriz's books will fill that in for me. This was a fun and entertaining ride, and I will not soon forget Generva Rose Kelly. Who could?
Williams is a fabulous storyteller, and her characters, especially Gin Kelly, they have sass and spunk! She is the heart of the book. Of course balanced by her counterpart Ella, who in the late 90's is trying to uncover the secrets of the past, at the same time as her life is a mess, and trying to figure out how to do the right thing and feel that she is on an honorable path. Thats the thing Gin is trying to tell us (also Beatriz). She says often, we are all sinners, and I think all of these characters have some blurred lines. But you do what you need to, for love, for honor, for country, for family, for yourself, and somehow, you forgive yourself for those blurs because we are all sinners trying our best somehow to live closer to better, while fighting for ourselves and the ones we love.
By the end of the trilogy, both couples are going strong and have reached resolve. I did wish to know a little more at the end of how it all played out, but perhaps other of Beatriz's books will fill that in for me. This was a fun and entertaining ride, and I will not soon forget Generva Rose Kelly. Who could?
December 3, 2021
This is a series set in Prohibition Era New York City and it's a great series! It's definitely set to continue, yet didn't leave me on a cliff hanger. I'm very willing to read more!! Can't wait.
If you're new to the series, you do want to read in order starting with The Wicked City.
If you're new to the series, you do want to read in order starting with The Wicked City.
October 10, 2021
I won an ARC of this book, without realizing that it was the third book in a series. I decided to read the other two books - The Wicked City and The Wicked Redhead - first, and I'm really glad I made that decision. If this book is read as a stand-alone (which could be done, since pertinent information is summarized), I think I would have rated it closer to a 3-star read. However, having read the whole series, the book read a lot better, and I picked up on a lot of little details that I would have missed if I had read it without having read the first two books.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the entire series. If you are interested in genealogy and/or family histories, you should definitely look into the Beatriz Williams world, as The Wicked City series is only part of the Schuyler family world, and there is a lot to unpack. Williams' writing is entertaining, and I thoroughly enjoy how all of the characters are linked to each other.
The Wicked Widow is a continuation of Geneva Rose "Gin" Kelly's story, and I'm sure that we will see more of her in future books. The drama level is high, like a soap opera in a novel format. Highly entertaining, and I love that Williams puts out so many bread crumbs for readers to follow and so many details for us to keep track of. I highly recommend this book (and series) to any detail-oriented reader who is also interested in family sagas.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the entire series. If you are interested in genealogy and/or family histories, you should definitely look into the Beatriz Williams world, as The Wicked City series is only part of the Schuyler family world, and there is a lot to unpack. Williams' writing is entertaining, and I thoroughly enjoy how all of the characters are linked to each other.
The Wicked Widow is a continuation of Geneva Rose "Gin" Kelly's story, and I'm sure that we will see more of her in future books. The drama level is high, like a soap opera in a novel format. Highly entertaining, and I love that Williams puts out so many bread crumbs for readers to follow and so many details for us to keep track of. I highly recommend this book (and series) to any detail-oriented reader who is also interested in family sagas.
June 14, 2022
📚 Hello Book Friends! THE WICKED WIDOW by Beatriz Williams is the third book in the Wicked City Series. Again, the story is filled with action, betrayals, and love. I love the dual timeline and the link between the main characters. I also love the imperfect characters and their attempts at finding love and happiness. I loved the ending, but it felt open for another book (there is no mention of it on Goodreads). If you love books set in the prohibition and speak-easy area with lots of action, I recommend this series.
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October 31, 2021
This book is the third in the Wicked series and it is an outstanding read!!! Loved it!!
It is 1925 and Gin Kelly is ready to marry Prohibition agent Anson Marshall. While they are at a funeral, an event occurs that sends them into hiding. Decisions have to be made that will impact their lives.
1998…Ella is pregnant with her husbands baby but she has left him. She rents a room in a building and some very interesting things bring to happen. Ellas aunt has her during some family research that might lead to some issues.
If you are a Beatriz fan, you will love this book. She is a superb researcher and it always shows in her books. This book can definitely stand alone but I believe that you will want to read the first two if you have not as you will understand the characters better!! I sure hope we get to meet Gin and Ella again…there story is not over yet.
It is 1925 and Gin Kelly is ready to marry Prohibition agent Anson Marshall. While they are at a funeral, an event occurs that sends them into hiding. Decisions have to be made that will impact their lives.
1998…Ella is pregnant with her husbands baby but she has left him. She rents a room in a building and some very interesting things bring to happen. Ellas aunt has her during some family research that might lead to some issues.
If you are a Beatriz fan, you will love this book. She is a superb researcher and it always shows in her books. This book can definitely stand alone but I believe that you will want to read the first two if you have not as you will understand the characters better!! I sure hope we get to meet Gin and Ella again…there story is not over yet.
didn-t-finish
July 27, 2022I just couldn’t get into this book. As I kept reading, I was reminded about how much I didn’t like the character Ginny Kelly in the previous two books, so decided to cut my losses.
August 2, 2021
Thank you to Edelweiss for an ARC of the Wicked Widow.
Beatriz Williams consistently delivers smart, meticulously researched, compelling historical fiction. I really enjoy living in her world for awhile. Wicked WIDOW brings alot of Schuyler family charcters back as well as Gin Kelly, whose story is most certainly not yet finished!
Another 5⭐ must read!
Beatriz Williams consistently delivers smart, meticulously researched, compelling historical fiction. I really enjoy living in her world for awhile. Wicked WIDOW brings alot of Schuyler family charcters back as well as Gin Kelly, whose story is most certainly not yet finished!
Another 5⭐ must read!
November 1, 2024
See what I put in my review of The Wicked Redhead. The connections are out of the world, there is too much going on, and also the way it is all connected is too much but also amazing.
November 11, 2021
It's 1998 and Ella Dommerich is pregnant except (if readers remember from The Wicked Redhead) things with her husband, Patrick, aren't good. She is moving in with her boyfriend, Hector, who is pretty much the perfect boyfriend despite her very complicated circumstances. Ella is having a tough go with morning sickness, but despite that, things are looking pretty good. Her Aunt Julie asks for her help by investigating Senator Frank Hardcastle, who is a presidential candidate. Aunt Julie has it against him for something he did to their family years ago. Then readers travel back to 1924 and are reunited with Geneva Kelly who lives in the townhouse that Ella and Hector currently reside in, but many years previously. Geneva, otherwise known as Gin, is married to Oliver Marshall and things are looking up since we last saw her, except for the fact that Louis Hardcastle, a bootlegger, blames Oliver for his son's death as Oliver is a Prohibition officer. Cue all the drama, especially as Ella uncovers some Hardcastle family secrets. The third installment in The Wicked City series, The Wicked Widow by Beatriz Williams, will most certainly keep fans of the series flipping the pages.
Read the rest of my review here: http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
Read the rest of my review here: http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
July 15, 2021
I was lucky to win an Advance copy of The Wicked Widow through a contest on Beatriz Williams’s Facebook page. I highly recommend this book! Two stories, one from the 1920s and one from 1998 that overlap and entwine with each other held me in suspense. I had to keep reading “just a little more” to see what would happen next! I have to say what I most enjoyed ( in this AND other novels by Beatriz Williams) is that the characters from other books kept popping up. It was, in its way, like meeting up with old friends not seen in a while or reconnecting with family members after lapses of time! Not just the main characters, but minor characters as well. Characters that were intriguing and left me wondering, “what ever happened to..”
December 21, 2021
4.5. So many characters and connections to keep track of, but as a big fan of this author and having read all her books, it was so much fun. This is the third book in the Wicked City series, but there are ties to many characters from other books as well. I didn't see the big twist coming, right as I planned to finish the chapter and turn out the light, so obviously I was then wide awake and had to stay up and read the remaining quarter or so of the book. Worth it.
October 24, 2021
Oh Wow!!!!! Each book in this series is better and juicier than the last and I love it!!!!!!!!!!!! My only issue is the wait until we receive the next installment in the Gin & Ella stories. Beatriz Williams has been one of my favorite historical fiction authors since I picked her the first one by her. For the life of me I cam tell you which one that was though hahaha. I highly recommend this series if you love a juicy, fascinating historical fiction story.
August 28, 2024
This is a whirlwind! And damn it!!!! There is a big old juicy non ending, a what the hell happens next and I WANT TO KNOW!!!! 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬
November 7, 2021
After reading THE WICKED CITY and THE WICKED REDHEAD, the first two books in the Wicked City series, back to back, it was torturous waiting two years for the third novel. So I am happy to announce that the recently released THE WICKED WIDOW is my new favorite from Beatriz Williams.
In 1925, after getting into serious trouble with powerful bootleggers in the previous book, Geneva Kelly (aka Ginger/Gin for her red hair) has recently married Prohibition agent Oliver Anson Marshall, and they are enjoying their honeymoon. But not surprisingly, their respite is short-lived; much to Gin’s dismay, Anson insists on returning to work and going undercover again.
Meanwhile, in 1998, Ella Dommerich is separated from her husband, Patrick, after she caught him cheating on her. She’s also pregnant with his baby while dating her new love, “hunky” Hector Murray, so things are complicated to say the least. She is also investigating the rich and powerful Hardcastle family. Could there be a connection, and a dangerous one, to Gin?
The story alternates between the two women and time periods --- and as with the earlier entries in the series, I was absolutely immersed in the novel from beginning to end. I loved that THE WICKED WIDOW picked up right where THE WICKED REDHEAD left off. Gin's spunky character is so vivid and real, and her sense of humor made me laugh out loud numerous times. My affection for her returned in full force as soon as I began reading the chapters in her very distinct voice. Additionally, my appreciation for Ella grew exponentially as her personality and storyline exploded.
While THE WICKED WIDOW can be read as a stand-alone, I'd highly recommend reading books one and two first so you can better understand the adventure-filled story, the raucous characters and their hijinks. This latest installment made me gasp, release the breath I didn’t know I was holding, and gave me whiplash…several times. I don’t think you would appreciate all of the twists and turns if you haven’t read them in order. I couldn't believe how much happened here, especially in the second half, and I might have even sworn under my breath a few times. Do you think Gin would be proud? So many loose ends left dangling since the series began were tied up, and so many burning questions were answered.
Those who love a glimpse of Williams’ characters from past books will be hyperventilating over this one. You will be amazed by how many family members stop by and provide updates as well as information that is key to the storyline.
As in the first two novels, the love affair between Gin and Anson is powerful, romantic and passionate. Ella’s new relationship with Hector adds yet another layer of romance and intrigue to the story. This series is rollicking fun and a true delight, and I sincerely hope this isn’t the last we see of these beloved characters. Especially Gin, who is one tough broad!
Reviewed by Rebecca Wasniak
In 1925, after getting into serious trouble with powerful bootleggers in the previous book, Geneva Kelly (aka Ginger/Gin for her red hair) has recently married Prohibition agent Oliver Anson Marshall, and they are enjoying their honeymoon. But not surprisingly, their respite is short-lived; much to Gin’s dismay, Anson insists on returning to work and going undercover again.
Meanwhile, in 1998, Ella Dommerich is separated from her husband, Patrick, after she caught him cheating on her. She’s also pregnant with his baby while dating her new love, “hunky” Hector Murray, so things are complicated to say the least. She is also investigating the rich and powerful Hardcastle family. Could there be a connection, and a dangerous one, to Gin?
The story alternates between the two women and time periods --- and as with the earlier entries in the series, I was absolutely immersed in the novel from beginning to end. I loved that THE WICKED WIDOW picked up right where THE WICKED REDHEAD left off. Gin's spunky character is so vivid and real, and her sense of humor made me laugh out loud numerous times. My affection for her returned in full force as soon as I began reading the chapters in her very distinct voice. Additionally, my appreciation for Ella grew exponentially as her personality and storyline exploded.
While THE WICKED WIDOW can be read as a stand-alone, I'd highly recommend reading books one and two first so you can better understand the adventure-filled story, the raucous characters and their hijinks. This latest installment made me gasp, release the breath I didn’t know I was holding, and gave me whiplash…several times. I don’t think you would appreciate all of the twists and turns if you haven’t read them in order. I couldn't believe how much happened here, especially in the second half, and I might have even sworn under my breath a few times. Do you think Gin would be proud? So many loose ends left dangling since the series began were tied up, and so many burning questions were answered.
Those who love a glimpse of Williams’ characters from past books will be hyperventilating over this one. You will be amazed by how many family members stop by and provide updates as well as information that is key to the storyline.
As in the first two novels, the love affair between Gin and Anson is powerful, romantic and passionate. Ella’s new relationship with Hector adds yet another layer of romance and intrigue to the story. This series is rollicking fun and a true delight, and I sincerely hope this isn’t the last we see of these beloved characters. Especially Gin, who is one tough broad!
Reviewed by Rebecca Wasniak
September 5, 2021
This might be a me not you. I got this as an advanced reading from Edelweiss. I did not realize it was a series, and this is the third.
I am more of a fan of purely historical fiction. I do not like duel time lines - flashing back and forth between present day and past of characters that are tangentially related. I would have enjoyed this much more if it was just the story of Gin.
In general the book is fine, but not great. Again might be because I am reading only the third book and trying to catch up with who is who, but the writing, the painful trying to be uneducated writing, (I still don't know what "swan" is supposed to be? Swear? Sew? Seen? It stopped me dead each and every time it came up, I even went to look up if there is a definition of the word I have never heard before.) never sits well with me. Some passages were fine, other felt very forced.
I am more of a fan of purely historical fiction. I do not like duel time lines - flashing back and forth between present day and past of characters that are tangentially related. I would have enjoyed this much more if it was just the story of Gin.
In general the book is fine, but not great. Again might be because I am reading only the third book and trying to catch up with who is who, but the writing, the painful trying to be uneducated writing, (I still don't know what "swan" is supposed to be? Swear? Sew? Seen? It stopped me dead each and every time it came up, I even went to look up if there is a definition of the word I have never heard before.) never sits well with me. Some passages were fine, other felt very forced.
October 2, 2021
I won an advanced copy of The Wicked Widow in a Goodreads Giveaway, and it most certainly took me on quite a journey! The story alternates between 1924 and 1998, as Gin Kelly and Ella Dommerich each face challenges in their own times. Gin has gotten caught up in a complicated web that threatens to destroy her husband, Anson, and Ella is trying to uncover long-ago buried secrets held within her family with shocking consequences. I will say that this is part of a series and it would probably behooved me to have read the other books first before diving into this one. However, Beatriz Williams is a gifted storyteller who can bring any fictional situation to life.
November 19, 2021
Gin Kelly’s adventures continue through Prohibition along with the love of her life Oliver Anson Marshall. And if you enjoy these “wicked” novels, prepare yourself for a fourth since her escapades do not stop here.
I did, however, find this a bit hard to follow at first. I read the first two books, one after the other, but it has been almost two years since reading the second, so it was challenging to remember all the characters, if ever. But, by the last third of the book, it all began to make sense and the story really started to move and got very exciting. I’m looking forward to the next book.
I did, however, find this a bit hard to follow at first. I read the first two books, one after the other, but it has been almost two years since reading the second, so it was challenging to remember all the characters, if ever. But, by the last third of the book, it all began to make sense and the story really started to move and got very exciting. I’m looking forward to the next book.
October 24, 2024
re-read oct 2024 - okay this book is a VERY Beatriz Williams book in that what I reacted to below when I first read it is so so so on brand. I still don't love it, but it tracks. I liked this more this time around for sure, and I felt more grounded in all the interweaving. Bonus tease of the Macallister side was fun too.
Also, Joanie Dommerich book when?!
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Pretty dramatic drop off in this series for me - I think the first was so compelling that nothing really lives up to that, and the thing she's doing in this series isn't my favourite of what she usually writes.
Also, Joanie Dommerich book when?!
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Pretty dramatic drop off in this series for me - I think the first was so compelling that nothing really lives up to that, and the thing she's doing in this series isn't my favourite of what she usually writes.
July 7, 2022
Another entertaining read in the Gin Kelly saga. Clearly a 4th will be on the way!
November 3, 2021
Thank you William Morrow for the gifted copy.
This is the third book in Beatriz Williams’ Wicked City series and I have been looking forward to reading this book. I love this author’s writing and love nothing more than getting lost in her books and could not wait to start this one. But I found myself really taking my time with it…I loved it so much and really did not want it to end.
It’s been a while since I’ve read the prior two books and as this is a series that really builds on the subsequent books, I do feel that it is necessary to read the books in order. I was going to reread, or at least skim over, the prior two books before picking this new one up, however Beatriz hosted two read-agains for the earlier books where she did a great re-hash of each book and I felt that those two events really got me up to speed so that I was well-prepared to jump into this one.
One of the things I love most about Beatriz Williams’ novels is how she always manages to bring back characters from previous books into her current novels. And there are so many instances of that here. If you are a super fan of Beatriz’s books, like I consider myself to be, you know that she loves the characters she writes and so it is not unusual for them to pop up in another book, even if it’s just in a minor role. In this book, the beloved Aunt Julie from A Hundred Summers, the very first book I ever read by Beatriz, and who has appeared in countless books, plays an integral role and I could not have been happier. I love this character and I cannot tell you how happy I get when I see her name appear on the page. And of course she gives nod to her writing partners in this book – if you read her other books, you will certainly pick up on this and if you don’t, no worries.
Once again, this installment is told using the dual narrative and I found myself completely engaged and invested in both timelines, especially as both involve some rather dubious happenings. Both Gin and Ella continue to be strong, fierce women, each with their own set of problems that they are faced with, yet determined to rise above and ultimately uncover all that needs to be brought to light. Each chapter kept me hooked and the fact that there were twists or reveals at almost every chapter kept me glued to the pages but what ultimately made this book is the fact that we finally learn how these two women are connected.
There is a lot going on in this book, but the writing is just so addictive that once you start reading it, you find yourself completely immersed in the story. As long as you have read the prior two books – I cannot stress this point enough!!! – you will easily be able to keep up with all that is happening in this book. And as much as I wanted to see how it all ended, I also wanted to savor every minute I had with these characters. I love being in the world that Beatriz creates and among all her characters. With so many of them popping up again and again, I feel that many of them are long, lost friends at this point, but I do love how seeing how she put them in different circumstances to make it work for each book.
I cannot recommend this series enough and I’m so thrilled to be able to say that there will indeed be another Wicked book coming at some point. Of course, I’ll be reading everything and anything Beatriz Williams writes, but this announcement definitely made my heart happy because I absolutely adore that feisty redhead, Gin Kelly!
You can see all my reviews at: https://www.alwayswithabook.com/
This is the third book in Beatriz Williams’ Wicked City series and I have been looking forward to reading this book. I love this author’s writing and love nothing more than getting lost in her books and could not wait to start this one. But I found myself really taking my time with it…I loved it so much and really did not want it to end.
It’s been a while since I’ve read the prior two books and as this is a series that really builds on the subsequent books, I do feel that it is necessary to read the books in order. I was going to reread, or at least skim over, the prior two books before picking this new one up, however Beatriz hosted two read-agains for the earlier books where she did a great re-hash of each book and I felt that those two events really got me up to speed so that I was well-prepared to jump into this one.
One of the things I love most about Beatriz Williams’ novels is how she always manages to bring back characters from previous books into her current novels. And there are so many instances of that here. If you are a super fan of Beatriz’s books, like I consider myself to be, you know that she loves the characters she writes and so it is not unusual for them to pop up in another book, even if it’s just in a minor role. In this book, the beloved Aunt Julie from A Hundred Summers, the very first book I ever read by Beatriz, and who has appeared in countless books, plays an integral role and I could not have been happier. I love this character and I cannot tell you how happy I get when I see her name appear on the page. And of course she gives nod to her writing partners in this book – if you read her other books, you will certainly pick up on this and if you don’t, no worries.
Once again, this installment is told using the dual narrative and I found myself completely engaged and invested in both timelines, especially as both involve some rather dubious happenings. Both Gin and Ella continue to be strong, fierce women, each with their own set of problems that they are faced with, yet determined to rise above and ultimately uncover all that needs to be brought to light. Each chapter kept me hooked and the fact that there were twists or reveals at almost every chapter kept me glued to the pages but what ultimately made this book is the fact that we finally learn how these two women are connected.
There is a lot going on in this book, but the writing is just so addictive that once you start reading it, you find yourself completely immersed in the story. As long as you have read the prior two books – I cannot stress this point enough!!! – you will easily be able to keep up with all that is happening in this book. And as much as I wanted to see how it all ended, I also wanted to savor every minute I had with these characters. I love being in the world that Beatriz creates and among all her characters. With so many of them popping up again and again, I feel that many of them are long, lost friends at this point, but I do love how seeing how she put them in different circumstances to make it work for each book.
I cannot recommend this series enough and I’m so thrilled to be able to say that there will indeed be another Wicked book coming at some point. Of course, I’ll be reading everything and anything Beatriz Williams writes, but this announcement definitely made my heart happy because I absolutely adore that feisty redhead, Gin Kelly!
You can see all my reviews at: https://www.alwayswithabook.com/
March 18, 2022
Ⓑⓞⓞⓚ Ⓡⓔⓥⓘⓔⓦ
🅑🅤🅓🅓🅨 🅡🅔🅐🅓
👩🏼🦰𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙒𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙒𝙞𝙙𝙤𝙬
👩🏼🦰The Wicked City Series
👩🏼🦰Book 3
👩🏼🦰Beatriz Williams
👩🏼🦰20th Century Historical
👩🏼🦰448 Pages
👩🏼🦰My reading buddy @stamperlady50 and I won this book through a contest from @williammorrow a few months ago. I finally found time to read it. A big thank you goes out to @stamperlady50 for being patient with me!
👩🏼🦰Sʜᴏᴿᴛ Sʏɴᴏᴘsɪs
👩🏼🦰The Wicked Widow has two storylines. One is in 1924 & the other is in 1998.
👩🏼🦰The first tells the story of Geneva Kelly, her life, her relationships, and her gumption to continue living through hardship.
👩🏼🦰The second tells Ella’s story. She is pregnant, separated from her husband, living with her boyfriend, and connected to the past, specifically Geneva.
👩🏼🦰My Thoughts
👩🏼🦰I couldn’t get through The Wicked Widow quickly enough. Trying to connect the dots between the two timelines kept me on my toes.
👩🏼🦰The characters are spectacular. Geneva is my favorite. She is kind and courageous, yet isn’t afraid to stick up for herself and her loved ones, even in the face of danger.
👩🏼🦰The men in both timelines have significant issues. I can’t say as I liked any of them. Cheaters, bootleggers, wife beaters, and absent fathers are spread throughout the story—nothing to like there.
👩🏼🦰The best part is the mystery in spilling out from every part of the story. Things just continue to get juicier as the book goes on. What is the connection? Some indications are given, but there is more to discover.
👩🏼🦰I haven’t read the first two books in the series. I would suggest reading them in order. It would’ve been beneficial to know the background of these characters before jumping into this one.
🔗Read more reviews at Latishaslowkeylife.com
🅑🅤🅓🅓🅨 🅡🅔🅐🅓
👩🏼🦰𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙒𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙒𝙞𝙙𝙤𝙬
👩🏼🦰The Wicked City Series
👩🏼🦰Book 3
👩🏼🦰Beatriz Williams
👩🏼🦰20th Century Historical
👩🏼🦰448 Pages
👩🏼🦰My reading buddy @stamperlady50 and I won this book through a contest from @williammorrow a few months ago. I finally found time to read it. A big thank you goes out to @stamperlady50 for being patient with me!
👩🏼🦰Sʜᴏᴿᴛ Sʏɴᴏᴘsɪs
👩🏼🦰The Wicked Widow has two storylines. One is in 1924 & the other is in 1998.
👩🏼🦰The first tells the story of Geneva Kelly, her life, her relationships, and her gumption to continue living through hardship.
👩🏼🦰The second tells Ella’s story. She is pregnant, separated from her husband, living with her boyfriend, and connected to the past, specifically Geneva.
👩🏼🦰My Thoughts
👩🏼🦰I couldn’t get through The Wicked Widow quickly enough. Trying to connect the dots between the two timelines kept me on my toes.
👩🏼🦰The characters are spectacular. Geneva is my favorite. She is kind and courageous, yet isn’t afraid to stick up for herself and her loved ones, even in the face of danger.
👩🏼🦰The men in both timelines have significant issues. I can’t say as I liked any of them. Cheaters, bootleggers, wife beaters, and absent fathers are spread throughout the story—nothing to like there.
👩🏼🦰The best part is the mystery in spilling out from every part of the story. Things just continue to get juicier as the book goes on. What is the connection? Some indications are given, but there is more to discover.
👩🏼🦰I haven’t read the first two books in the series. I would suggest reading them in order. It would’ve been beneficial to know the background of these characters before jumping into this one.
🔗Read more reviews at Latishaslowkeylife.com
August 16, 2022
WHY THE SERIES?
Oh God, why did I read it? I've wasted a lot of precious hours I could have devoted to reading something really worthwhile!
The reason why I kept going was that the first book of the series actually interested and intrigued me by promising a page-turning mystery I really looked forward to discovering. Add to this the fact I immediately took a liking to the main characters (Ella, Hector, Gin, Anson) - it always happens to me when it comes to Beatriz Williams' protagonists!
So I didn't give up, even though the plot bored me sometimes and the different timelines confused me quite a bit. But "The wicked widow", alas, was the ultimate disappointment. It wasn't so much that the answers provided in the end weren't as shocking as I had expected, but at that point I was too unconcerned (and also puzzled by the frequent and pointless additions of layers to the mystery) to care anymore.
I am still rating all of the novels three stars, as if it were a single book, because I think it would actually have worked if Williams had decided to write it like that. The final discoveries aren't so bad in the end; characters and writing style really are wonderful; the whole series would just have benefitted from a shorter form, which would have also solved the problem of the unnecessary proliferation of secondary characters and events.
Oh God, why did I read it? I've wasted a lot of precious hours I could have devoted to reading something really worthwhile!
The reason why I kept going was that the first book of the series actually interested and intrigued me by promising a page-turning mystery I really looked forward to discovering. Add to this the fact I immediately took a liking to the main characters (Ella, Hector, Gin, Anson) - it always happens to me when it comes to Beatriz Williams' protagonists!
So I didn't give up, even though the plot bored me sometimes and the different timelines confused me quite a bit. But "The wicked widow", alas, was the ultimate disappointment. It wasn't so much that the answers provided in the end weren't as shocking as I had expected, but at that point I was too unconcerned (and also puzzled by the frequent and pointless additions of layers to the mystery) to care anymore.
I am still rating all of the novels three stars, as if it were a single book, because I think it would actually have worked if Williams had decided to write it like that. The final discoveries aren't so bad in the end; characters and writing style really are wonderful; the whole series would just have benefitted from a shorter form, which would have also solved the problem of the unnecessary proliferation of secondary characters and events.
February 7, 2023
2.5 One of my favorite authors, but I was really hoping this would be the last in the series I’d started out loving.
Patrick became even more despicable, like that was even possible. It’s one thing to screw random women, but Ella’s cousin, for years? And the cousin goes along with this? Ewww. We knew Patrick was gross, but I really wanted to believe he wasn’t quite that awful and that he truly loved Ella in spite of his problems. And please Ella, you don’t have to be nice to these people! Don’t feel sorry for them!
Remind Lizzie Patrick was screwing hookers at the same time he was screwing her and see how much she still wants to be with him!
And Anson. Dear God. Instead of fighting like hell to get back to Gin and fight Bronstein for her, he has pity party sex with Lu? At least Gin had an excuse thinking he was dead. And honestly, I prefer Gin with Bronstein. More heat between those two than her and Anson. And of course he knocked up Lu—of course!
Just too much ick in this one for me, though I know I’m in the minority.
Patrick became even more despicable, like that was even possible. It’s one thing to screw random women, but Ella’s cousin, for years? And the cousin goes along with this? Ewww. We knew Patrick was gross, but I really wanted to believe he wasn’t quite that awful and that he truly loved Ella in spite of his problems. And please Ella, you don’t have to be nice to these people! Don’t feel sorry for them!
Remind Lizzie Patrick was screwing hookers at the same time he was screwing her and see how much she still wants to be with him!
And Anson. Dear God. Instead of fighting like hell to get back to Gin and fight Bronstein for her, he has pity party sex with Lu? At least Gin had an excuse thinking he was dead. And honestly, I prefer Gin with Bronstein. More heat between those two than her and Anson. And of course he knocked up Lu—of course!
Just too much ick in this one for me, though I know I’m in the minority.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2022
I was thrilled to find out there was another book coming out in the Wicked Series. Gin Kelly is such a fun character.
1925 During prohibition, Gins love interest, Anson is a Prohibition enforcement special agent.
1988 Modern day-Ella Dommerich is living the same building where Gin resided. A pregnant Ella has left her husband. As she is living in the same space, a mystery leads Ella to find out what happened to Gin. Gin’s world and legacy might have impacted Ella’s world. Are they related?
I adore the character of Gin as she is one who speakers her mind. Her decisions are not always well thought out, but she continues forward regardless of the consequences.
You will root for Ella as she tries to move forward in her life.
This is book 3 in the series, following The Wicked City and The Wicked Redhead, but I have a feeling her story is not done yet. You can read this novel as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend all three books.
1925 During prohibition, Gins love interest, Anson is a Prohibition enforcement special agent.
1988 Modern day-Ella Dommerich is living the same building where Gin resided. A pregnant Ella has left her husband. As she is living in the same space, a mystery leads Ella to find out what happened to Gin. Gin’s world and legacy might have impacted Ella’s world. Are they related?
I adore the character of Gin as she is one who speakers her mind. Her decisions are not always well thought out, but she continues forward regardless of the consequences.
You will root for Ella as she tries to move forward in her life.
This is book 3 in the series, following The Wicked City and The Wicked Redhead, but I have a feeling her story is not done yet. You can read this novel as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend all three books.
March 3, 2023
Prompts this fits for reading challenges: dual timelines, strong females, Roaring 20s, black cover, female author, in a trilogy, last book in a series, alliterative title, funeral, classic car (Rapid Readers bingo card), script on spine, body part on cover, final book in a trilogy (Rapid Readers), adoption, survival story, secrets, misdirection, love triangle. Fire. Hollywood.
This is the third installment in the Wicked City trilogy. It is the dual timeline stories of Gin, a redheaded flapper in the 1920s, and Ella, a woman in 1990s New York who finds herself in the home Gin once owned and occupied.
I love the way Gin speaks. The author really brings her odd mix of backwoods and New York City flapper to life as a unique character.
There's a terrific little Easter egg hidden in plain sight on page 200 of the hardcover edition, referencing Williams' collaborations with fellow authors Willig and White. I laughed out loud. So cleverly placed!
I thought this was only supposed to be a trilogy, but there's a bombshell dropped at the end and it looks to me like more stories would be forthcoming. I sure wouldn't mind that.
This is the third installment in the Wicked City trilogy. It is the dual timeline stories of Gin, a redheaded flapper in the 1920s, and Ella, a woman in 1990s New York who finds herself in the home Gin once owned and occupied.
I love the way Gin speaks. The author really brings her odd mix of backwoods and New York City flapper to life as a unique character.
There's a terrific little Easter egg hidden in plain sight on page 200 of the hardcover edition, referencing Williams' collaborations with fellow authors Willig and White. I laughed out loud. So cleverly placed!
I thought this was only supposed to be a trilogy, but there's a bombshell dropped at the end and it looks to me like more stories would be forthcoming. I sure wouldn't mind that.
November 1, 2021
In 1924, Geneva (aka Ginger/Gin for her red hair) and her new husband, Prohibition Agent Oliver Anson Marshall, go into hiding after getting into serious trouble with powerful bootleggers. Meanwhile, in 1998, Ella is pregnant with soon to be ex-husband, Patrick's, baby but newly in love with Hector. She is also investigating the rich and powerful Hardcastle family. Could there be a connection, and a dangerous one at that, to Gin?
The story alternates between the two women/time periods, and as with the first two in the series, The Wicked City and The Wicked Redhead, I was absolutely immersed in the story from beginning to end. I loved that the story picks up right where Redhead left off. These characters are so vivid and real, and I especially love Gin's spunky character. Additionally, my appreciation for Ella grew exponentially in this book as her personality and storyline exploded.
"I guess we all behave wicked from time to time. Not one of us has never hurt another human being, whether by fault or by inattention."
This could be read as a standalone, but I'd highly recommend reading them in order. This latest installment gave me whiplash... several times... and I don't think you would appreciate all the twists and turns if you haven't read them in order. I couldn't believe how much happened, especially in the last half. So many loose ends left dangling since the first book were tied up, and I sure hope this isn't the end of these beloved characters, especially Gin, who is one tough broad!
Location: NYC, California (Los Angeles), and Massachusetts (Cape Cod)
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
The story alternates between the two women/time periods, and as with the first two in the series, The Wicked City and The Wicked Redhead, I was absolutely immersed in the story from beginning to end. I loved that the story picks up right where Redhead left off. These characters are so vivid and real, and I especially love Gin's spunky character. Additionally, my appreciation for Ella grew exponentially in this book as her personality and storyline exploded.
"I guess we all behave wicked from time to time. Not one of us has never hurt another human being, whether by fault or by inattention."
This could be read as a standalone, but I'd highly recommend reading them in order. This latest installment gave me whiplash... several times... and I don't think you would appreciate all the twists and turns if you haven't read them in order. I couldn't believe how much happened, especially in the last half. So many loose ends left dangling since the first book were tied up, and I sure hope this isn't the end of these beloved characters, especially Gin, who is one tough broad!
Location: NYC, California (Los Angeles), and Massachusetts (Cape Cod)
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
August 27, 2021
This is my first Gin Kelly book and I thoroughly enjoyed it! What a wonderful character Beatriz Williams has created in Gin, and Ella Dommerich is quite an outstanding character herself. The story alternates between the two, with Gin's story centered in the Prohibition era, and Ella's in 1998. Do Prohibition crimes of the past still reverberate into the 1990's? This is a complex story at times, and kept me guessing throughout. Each chapter is a cliffhanger that will keep you reading to find out what happens next. I definitely need to read the other 2 books, but this book stands on its own, with sufficient background on Gin so the story flowed from one thrilling chapter to the next. I did receive an ARC from Netgalley and I am very grateful that I did! And I think (hope) that Gin will be back in another book.
December 28, 2021
I love every book written by Beatriz Williams. Admittedly, the first book in the series wasn’t my favorite, maybe because it didn’t wrap up the characters stories? All of BW books have interwoven characters but the main characters in often have resolution. Well, two books later into the Redhead series and I’m fully invested and love these characters but I’m still just as frustrated yet equally delighted the series will continue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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