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The Wicked Wives
"Wicked Wives" is based on the true story of the 1938 Philadelphia murder scandals in which seventeen wives were arrested for murdering their husbands. Mastermind conspirator Giorgio DiSipio, a stunning lothario and local tailor who preys upon disenchanted and unfaithful wives, convinces twelve of them to kill their spouses for insurance money. The murder conspiracy is very successful until one lone assistant D.A., Tom Rossi, uncovers the plot and brings the perpetrators to justice. "Wicked Wives" is a story made for Hollywood, combining murder, corruption, treachery, love, lust and phenomenal detail as it vividly captures Depression-era Philadelphia.
308 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2008
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 30, 2011
First let me say this is not the typical book for this blog but when the request came in and I read the blurb I just had to give it a try. All I have to say is WOW! This is a fantastic read.
Based on a true story Gus takes you down the path of greed, corruption, lust and lots of murdering as these conspirators feel the need to kill for only money. But he doesn’t stop there.Oh no, the twist at the end is one that will leave you in pure shock. I must say the author, Gus, really did his homework for this novel. I’m really surprised a Hollywood producer has not made this into a movie. And again I have to say wow, No spoilers for this one, you will have to read it for yourself, I gave it a 5 because it is great. I’m really glad I got to review this novel.
I can picture it now the opening of the movie would be the newspaper article sent to Tom at the end of the book floating across the screen.
I highly recommend this one to anyone that likes a good suspenseful read.
Based on a true story Gus takes you down the path of greed, corruption, lust and lots of murdering as these conspirators feel the need to kill for only money. But he doesn’t stop there.Oh no, the twist at the end is one that will leave you in pure shock. I must say the author, Gus, really did his homework for this novel. I’m really surprised a Hollywood producer has not made this into a movie. And again I have to say wow, No spoilers for this one, you will have to read it for yourself, I gave it a 5 because it is great. I’m really glad I got to review this novel.
I can picture it now the opening of the movie would be the newspaper article sent to Tom at the end of the book floating across the screen.
I highly recommend this one to anyone that likes a good suspenseful read.
March 16, 2012
The Evil Wives tells the story of unfaithful neighborhood wives who allegedly murdered their husbands with the assistance of their lover for insurance money. It is the true story of Philadelphia’s infamous 1938 poison murder conspiracy scandals, the women, their lovers and their husbands and the Assistant DA that lead the investigation.
The poison gang’s colorful and hilarious characters help to deep-six a minimum of 20 husbands. The supporting cast includes Giorgio, “The Don Juan of Passyunk Avenue.” Aside from Lillian, “the society wife”, the wives include Rose, the “Kiss of Death Widow,” Eva "the nymphomaniac" and the "hopelessly in love" Joanna.
I’m not usually a fan of true stories but after reading a synopsis of The Wicked Wives I had to find out what actually occurred. We have often heard that truth is stranger than fiction and that is surely so in this case. This is a fascinating story that will keep you turning pages until the very surprising end.
The poison gang’s colorful and hilarious characters help to deep-six a minimum of 20 husbands. The supporting cast includes Giorgio, “The Don Juan of Passyunk Avenue.” Aside from Lillian, “the society wife”, the wives include Rose, the “Kiss of Death Widow,” Eva "the nymphomaniac" and the "hopelessly in love" Joanna.
I’m not usually a fan of true stories but after reading a synopsis of The Wicked Wives I had to find out what actually occurred. We have often heard that truth is stranger than fiction and that is surely so in this case. This is a fascinating story that will keep you turning pages until the very surprising end.
Read
March 1, 2012At first blush one would feel sorry for young Lillian Stoner, whose husband Reggie has just died at the opening of The Wicked Wives, a story set in 1938 Philadelphia. That is until you learn that Reggie’s mother had recently caught Lillian in flagrante delicto with another man.
The picture gets even murkier when, despite the attending physician being ready to sign off on the death as resulting from pneumonia, Assistant District Attorney Tom Rossi observes signs consistent with poisoning. Should be easy enough to get to the bottom of things though, just order an autopsy, right?
Wrong. Turns out Lillian’s uncle is the very powerful and influential – not to mention corrupt – Deputy Mayor Bill Evans, who makes it quite clear to Rossi that if he pushes for an autopsy he can kiss goodbye any shot at an endorsement from Evans for District Attorney. Without Evans’ backing not only does Rossi have no chance of becoming D.A., but his entire career may take a turn for the worse.
Determined to do the right thing despite what it may cost him personally, Rossi moves forward with the investigation. Initially thinking he was looking into a single questionable death, Rossi ends up uncovering a scandal wider and deeper than he could ever possibly have imagined.
Through painstaking investigation and connecting the dots, Rossi discovers that a mysterious Lady in Black has recruited lothario Giorgio DiSipio to get friendly with lonely and neglected women, encourage them to take out life insurance policies on their spouses, then provide the women with the means to poison their husbands. Assistance from policy writers and undertakers in on the scheme smooths the process and helps avoid raising suspicion.
The sheer number of players involved in the scheme makes the initial setup of The Wicked Wives a bit slow to get going, but once the investigation hits its stride, and later when the actual courtroom prosecutions begin, the book becomes an engrossing dissection of lust, murder, greed, and jurisprudence in a major American city during the late Depression. Along the way, stark realities of life during that era are brought to life including the extreme poverty, political corruption and cronyism, openly anti-immigrant and ethnic prejudices, and the commonplace occurrence of death from pneumonia and acute pulmonary edema, both of which conveniently offer many of the same symptoms as death by poisoning.
Interestingly, The Wicked Wives is based on real events which took place in Philadelphia in the late 1930’s. Over the course of an investigation and prosecution which spanned several years, seventeen women and over half a dozen co-conspirators were arrested in the poisoning deaths of the women’s husbands in a scheme designed to collect on life insurance policies. Author Gus Pelagatti prepared for writing The Wicked Wives by interviewing judges, lawyers, detectives, witnesses and neighbors who were all involved in the real case, the result of which is a fascinating fictionalized look at one of the most notorious organized murder for profit schemes to ever take place in this country.
The picture gets even murkier when, despite the attending physician being ready to sign off on the death as resulting from pneumonia, Assistant District Attorney Tom Rossi observes signs consistent with poisoning. Should be easy enough to get to the bottom of things though, just order an autopsy, right?
Wrong. Turns out Lillian’s uncle is the very powerful and influential – not to mention corrupt – Deputy Mayor Bill Evans, who makes it quite clear to Rossi that if he pushes for an autopsy he can kiss goodbye any shot at an endorsement from Evans for District Attorney. Without Evans’ backing not only does Rossi have no chance of becoming D.A., but his entire career may take a turn for the worse.
Determined to do the right thing despite what it may cost him personally, Rossi moves forward with the investigation. Initially thinking he was looking into a single questionable death, Rossi ends up uncovering a scandal wider and deeper than he could ever possibly have imagined.
Through painstaking investigation and connecting the dots, Rossi discovers that a mysterious Lady in Black has recruited lothario Giorgio DiSipio to get friendly with lonely and neglected women, encourage them to take out life insurance policies on their spouses, then provide the women with the means to poison their husbands. Assistance from policy writers and undertakers in on the scheme smooths the process and helps avoid raising suspicion.
The sheer number of players involved in the scheme makes the initial setup of The Wicked Wives a bit slow to get going, but once the investigation hits its stride, and later when the actual courtroom prosecutions begin, the book becomes an engrossing dissection of lust, murder, greed, and jurisprudence in a major American city during the late Depression. Along the way, stark realities of life during that era are brought to life including the extreme poverty, political corruption and cronyism, openly anti-immigrant and ethnic prejudices, and the commonplace occurrence of death from pneumonia and acute pulmonary edema, both of which conveniently offer many of the same symptoms as death by poisoning.
Interestingly, The Wicked Wives is based on real events which took place in Philadelphia in the late 1930’s. Over the course of an investigation and prosecution which spanned several years, seventeen women and over half a dozen co-conspirators were arrested in the poisoning deaths of the women’s husbands in a scheme designed to collect on life insurance policies. Author Gus Pelagatti prepared for writing The Wicked Wives by interviewing judges, lawyers, detectives, witnesses and neighbors who were all involved in the real case, the result of which is a fascinating fictionalized look at one of the most notorious organized murder for profit schemes to ever take place in this country.
March 4, 2012
Read my full review at: http://www.dreamworldbooks.com/2012/0...
January 3, 2012
Article first published as Book Review: The Wicked Wives by Gus Pelagatti on Blogcritics.
Time and tide are steady and reliable, functions you can rely on. When you involve personalities and events however, egos and feelings as well as the search for the everlasting dollar contribute to how those various functions relate to lives. Tide may never change, but time is elusive, you can have more–or you can have less. Sometimes fate intercedes. Sometimes that fate if brought about by those you know in unimaginable ways. Murder is not new; it has been around for thousands of years. The reasons are varied and yet make sense to the perpetrator at the time, but not necessarily to anyone else.
In The Wicked Wives by Gus Pelagatti, we are given the opportunity to look into the lives of a group of both women and men that were responsible for the murders of the women’s husbands in the 1930's. The story is based off a true set of crimes, and the strange and unethical reasons understate how little it takes for some to cross over to the side of murder. During this time in Philadelphia, the scandal resulted in seventeen wives being arrested for murdering their husbands. It would take one man to stand up for the victims and uncover the acts that would bring justice.
During the depression, money was scarce and this is the story about how a group of women went about finding the money to lead the lifestyles they were accustomed to, and the depravity of the acts they were willing to use to get where they felt they had to go. Not alone in their disenchanted lives, there appeared to be a mastermind, one who helped and used convincing arguments that allowed them the reasoning for killing their husbands for the insurance money. This man was also an integral part of the process and a lover to all of the women involved.
Pelagatti has used his background as a trial lawyer to help dig into the files and do the research behind this strange and bizarre set of crimes and bring us a story of these women and their prolific thoughts and reasoning’s. He digs deep into the psyche of those involved and brings us a look at the lives they led and the circumstances that lead them to the final act of taking another’s life.
As the story unfolds Pelagatti has a way of bringing sadness to the lives of those involved although each murder was well thought out and planned with malice. The women themselves almost came across as victims as well in some cases, but each time the crime seems so brutal. The conspirator, Giorgia DiSipio, was an amazing con man and as such he created a con for each of the wives. They seemed almost naïve in their belief that they were his one and only love. Even their knowledge of the others could not convince them of his unreliability. The story moves from time and place in a well-orchestrated fashion keeping you interested and often in disbelief. While the money involved seems so small in our day and times, we are continually reminded of the times and the depression as it affected the lives of all those involved.
If you are interested in true crime and murder mysteries, you will find this a strong starting point. The methodology behind the killings and the brutality of the process leaves you wondering how this could have happened. Pelagatti not only tells us a story of the times he is able to set some strange red herrings and give us a surprise that you do not see coming.
This would be a great book for your true crime library, full of history and real life. I believe it would also be a great find for a reading group, a way to discuss how little is can take to make someone step over the edge.
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
Time and tide are steady and reliable, functions you can rely on. When you involve personalities and events however, egos and feelings as well as the search for the everlasting dollar contribute to how those various functions relate to lives. Tide may never change, but time is elusive, you can have more–or you can have less. Sometimes fate intercedes. Sometimes that fate if brought about by those you know in unimaginable ways. Murder is not new; it has been around for thousands of years. The reasons are varied and yet make sense to the perpetrator at the time, but not necessarily to anyone else.
In The Wicked Wives by Gus Pelagatti, we are given the opportunity to look into the lives of a group of both women and men that were responsible for the murders of the women’s husbands in the 1930's. The story is based off a true set of crimes, and the strange and unethical reasons understate how little it takes for some to cross over to the side of murder. During this time in Philadelphia, the scandal resulted in seventeen wives being arrested for murdering their husbands. It would take one man to stand up for the victims and uncover the acts that would bring justice.
During the depression, money was scarce and this is the story about how a group of women went about finding the money to lead the lifestyles they were accustomed to, and the depravity of the acts they were willing to use to get where they felt they had to go. Not alone in their disenchanted lives, there appeared to be a mastermind, one who helped and used convincing arguments that allowed them the reasoning for killing their husbands for the insurance money. This man was also an integral part of the process and a lover to all of the women involved.
Pelagatti has used his background as a trial lawyer to help dig into the files and do the research behind this strange and bizarre set of crimes and bring us a story of these women and their prolific thoughts and reasoning’s. He digs deep into the psyche of those involved and brings us a look at the lives they led and the circumstances that lead them to the final act of taking another’s life.
As the story unfolds Pelagatti has a way of bringing sadness to the lives of those involved although each murder was well thought out and planned with malice. The women themselves almost came across as victims as well in some cases, but each time the crime seems so brutal. The conspirator, Giorgia DiSipio, was an amazing con man and as such he created a con for each of the wives. They seemed almost naïve in their belief that they were his one and only love. Even their knowledge of the others could not convince them of his unreliability. The story moves from time and place in a well-orchestrated fashion keeping you interested and often in disbelief. While the money involved seems so small in our day and times, we are continually reminded of the times and the depression as it affected the lives of all those involved.
If you are interested in true crime and murder mysteries, you will find this a strong starting point. The methodology behind the killings and the brutality of the process leaves you wondering how this could have happened. Pelagatti not only tells us a story of the times he is able to set some strange red herrings and give us a surprise that you do not see coming.
This would be a great book for your true crime library, full of history and real life. I believe it would also be a great find for a reading group, a way to discuss how little is can take to make someone step over the edge.
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
March 7, 2013
4 STARS
This is a well told story. Can't believe all the murders for money.
This is based on a true story it also has a suspenseful question of who was the lady dressed in black.
I had never heard of this Poison murder case of all the wives who worked together to kill their husband for insurance money, till I was contacted by Gus Pelagatti to read his book.
It is not a uplifting story. The wives are having affairs with more than one partner. Most of them had an affair with the tailor. They knew he had lots of lovers. He was even
married himself. He convinced them to kill their husbands for money. He would help them get insurance on their husbands without them knowing and they would split the money.
The story is laid out in away that showed how the proscuter figured out his cases. In fact it even showed some of court cases. Their even showed some of the outcomes some guilty and some innocent.
I enjoyed the story and could not believe the outcome.
I was given this ebook to read by the author and asked to give honest review of it when done.
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (June 20, 2011) 299 pages ISBN: 0615674364
Discription below taken off of Amazon
When I was an eight year old boy I overheard adults in my South Philadelphia neighborhood discussing 17 disenchanted and unfaithful neighborhood wives who murdered their husbands for insurance money, love and lust. This was a fascinating topic for an eight year old boy eavesdropping on adult conversation. The adults were discussing the true story of Philadelphia’s infamous 1938 murder scandals. My fascination led to obsession. I knew that I had to write about these wicked wives someday.
After I became a trial lawyer in 1964, I researched the poison murder cases in the law library and obtained newspaper accounts of the scandals dating back to October, 1938. Thereafter I conducted interviews with judges, lawyers, police, witnesses, sheriff deputies and neighbors who knew the defendants.
One of the chief conspirators was a tailor who seduced, then persuaded at least twelve wives to poison their husbands for insurance. The setting for his seductions was the couch in the rear of his tailor shop, located two blocks from our family home.
A fascinating conspiracy unfolded in these murder cases. The poison gang’s colorful and hilarious characters helped to deep-six a minimum of 20 husbands. The supporting cast includes Giorgio, “The Don Juan of Passyunk Avenue. ” Aside from scheming Lillian, “the society wife”, the wives include Rose, the “Kiss of Death Widow, ” Eva “the nymphomaniac” and the “hopelessly in love, ” Joanna.
After many comical episodes, intriguing detective work and two suspense filled high profile trials, 12 wives plead or are found guilty of murdering their husbands. Two male conspirators were executed in the electric chair.
"The Wicked Wives" gleefully explores the sins of lust and greed, and the disappointments that love often brings. The characters, although they commit murder and adultery
This is a well told story. Can't believe all the murders for money.
This is based on a true story it also has a suspenseful question of who was the lady dressed in black.
I had never heard of this Poison murder case of all the wives who worked together to kill their husband for insurance money, till I was contacted by Gus Pelagatti to read his book.
It is not a uplifting story. The wives are having affairs with more than one partner. Most of them had an affair with the tailor. They knew he had lots of lovers. He was even
married himself. He convinced them to kill their husbands for money. He would help them get insurance on their husbands without them knowing and they would split the money.
The story is laid out in away that showed how the proscuter figured out his cases. In fact it even showed some of court cases. Their even showed some of the outcomes some guilty and some innocent.
I enjoyed the story and could not believe the outcome.
I was given this ebook to read by the author and asked to give honest review of it when done.
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (June 20, 2011) 299 pages ISBN: 0615674364
Discription below taken off of Amazon
When I was an eight year old boy I overheard adults in my South Philadelphia neighborhood discussing 17 disenchanted and unfaithful neighborhood wives who murdered their husbands for insurance money, love and lust. This was a fascinating topic for an eight year old boy eavesdropping on adult conversation. The adults were discussing the true story of Philadelphia’s infamous 1938 murder scandals. My fascination led to obsession. I knew that I had to write about these wicked wives someday.
After I became a trial lawyer in 1964, I researched the poison murder cases in the law library and obtained newspaper accounts of the scandals dating back to October, 1938. Thereafter I conducted interviews with judges, lawyers, police, witnesses, sheriff deputies and neighbors who knew the defendants.
One of the chief conspirators was a tailor who seduced, then persuaded at least twelve wives to poison their husbands for insurance. The setting for his seductions was the couch in the rear of his tailor shop, located two blocks from our family home.
A fascinating conspiracy unfolded in these murder cases. The poison gang’s colorful and hilarious characters helped to deep-six a minimum of 20 husbands. The supporting cast includes Giorgio, “The Don Juan of Passyunk Avenue. ” Aside from scheming Lillian, “the society wife”, the wives include Rose, the “Kiss of Death Widow, ” Eva “the nymphomaniac” and the “hopelessly in love, ” Joanna.
After many comical episodes, intriguing detective work and two suspense filled high profile trials, 12 wives plead or are found guilty of murdering their husbands. Two male conspirators were executed in the electric chair.
"The Wicked Wives" gleefully explores the sins of lust and greed, and the disappointments that love often brings. The characters, although they commit murder and adultery
May 30, 2012
Wickedly Entertaining!
The book The Wicked Wives is written as fiction based on true events. The book is well written and held my interest!
The setting is Philadelphia 1937 -39 in an area where money and political status carries a lot of power. Although there is evidence of seventeen deaths due to ‘wicked wives’, this book features four different women who are bored and are motivated to kill based on their need for money, sex, or drugs. The common bond for these women is one man, Giorgio DiSipio, a tailor in south Philly.
Is Lillian slowly poisoning her husband, Reggie, each time she brings his brandy? After his agonizing death, which is thought to be pneumonia, his mother Nancy demands an autopsy. This sets off a conflict between Deputy Mayor Evans and the Prosecutor Tom Rossi. Deputy Mayor Evans is involved with Lillian and he needs to protect her from the suspicion of murdering Reggie...it gets complicated!
Eva Bell Fitzpatrick had a lot of problems. She loved to gamble, was not afraid of a bit of danger, and she wanted Giorgio. After losing a huge bet on Seabiscuit at the races, she is desperate for Giorgio to help dispose of the bookie she is indebted to, and arrange an accident for her husband Dennis. She had taken out accidental insurance on her husbands life. Eva is a bad girl, Dennis is not her only victim!
Joanna Napoli owned a flower shop down the street from Giorgio’s tailor shop. Joanna’s husband was crippled and spent his days drinking wine as he played bocce with his friends at the park. Joanna thinks she is in love with Giorgio and he will be her answer to freedom and sex. So how will Antonio actually die?
Sadie Lamb ran a boarding house with benefits for her male renters. She has taken insurance policies out on her husband Robert who has a history of heart trouble. When Robert does not die soon enough for her plans, what accident will befall him?
As the story unfolds, there is more criminal activity other than the murders. Insurance fraud, mob connections, and political motives are intertwined.
Who is this Lady in Black with a giant sized body-guard?
Giorgio is beginning to fear the Woman in Black and her giant size friend..who are they? Why are the wicked wives meeting with her in Lillian’s basement?
How will Tom Rossi prove his suspicions about motives and methods of these murders?
Read the book, it is a very entertaining crime story!
The book The Wicked Wives is written as fiction based on true events. The book is well written and held my interest!
The setting is Philadelphia 1937 -39 in an area where money and political status carries a lot of power. Although there is evidence of seventeen deaths due to ‘wicked wives’, this book features four different women who are bored and are motivated to kill based on their need for money, sex, or drugs. The common bond for these women is one man, Giorgio DiSipio, a tailor in south Philly.
Is Lillian slowly poisoning her husband, Reggie, each time she brings his brandy? After his agonizing death, which is thought to be pneumonia, his mother Nancy demands an autopsy. This sets off a conflict between Deputy Mayor Evans and the Prosecutor Tom Rossi. Deputy Mayor Evans is involved with Lillian and he needs to protect her from the suspicion of murdering Reggie...it gets complicated!
Eva Bell Fitzpatrick had a lot of problems. She loved to gamble, was not afraid of a bit of danger, and she wanted Giorgio. After losing a huge bet on Seabiscuit at the races, she is desperate for Giorgio to help dispose of the bookie she is indebted to, and arrange an accident for her husband Dennis. She had taken out accidental insurance on her husbands life. Eva is a bad girl, Dennis is not her only victim!
Joanna Napoli owned a flower shop down the street from Giorgio’s tailor shop. Joanna’s husband was crippled and spent his days drinking wine as he played bocce with his friends at the park. Joanna thinks she is in love with Giorgio and he will be her answer to freedom and sex. So how will Antonio actually die?
Sadie Lamb ran a boarding house with benefits for her male renters. She has taken insurance policies out on her husband Robert who has a history of heart trouble. When Robert does not die soon enough for her plans, what accident will befall him?
As the story unfolds, there is more criminal activity other than the murders. Insurance fraud, mob connections, and political motives are intertwined.
Who is this Lady in Black with a giant sized body-guard?
Giorgio is beginning to fear the Woman in Black and her giant size friend..who are they? Why are the wicked wives meeting with her in Lillian’s basement?
How will Tom Rossi prove his suspicions about motives and methods of these murders?
Read the book, it is a very entertaining crime story!
January 20, 2013
Find this and other reviews at: http://flashlightcommentary.blogspot....
I couldn't have been more excited when author Gus Pelagetti asked me to review his book The Wicked Wives. I love true crime novels and the very idea of a bunch of women poisoning their husbands was more than a little provocative. I eagerly agreed to take on the book in exchange for an honest review.
Overall I liked the book but I particularly enjoyed the obvious effort Pelagetti put into making sure the complex web of intrigue didn't overwhelm his readers. Each part of the conspiracy evolves naturally, moving from one event to the next with fluidity I am unused to seeing in the work of first time authors.
Still, for all that I applaud this effort; I also feel the cast is rather shallowly characterized. Take Tom for example. We know he is the First Assistant D.A. with hopes of being elected D.A. when his superior retires, but reading the book cover to cover, I never really understood what drove this character. I wanted to know what made him tick, to get into his head, to understand why he is the way he is especially since he is the primary lead. There are so many characters that one could hardly expect to get to know them all, but still, I would have liked to see a lot more depth to characters like Tom, Hope and Giorgio.
Ultimately my rating came down to a single factor: I called who did it and nothing kills the ending of a whodunit so much realizing the hunch you've been sitting on most of the book is correct. Though I think Pelagatti's mystery has excellent movement, I can't say it kept me guessing and in the end that is what makes a mystery in my eyes. I want to be hanging on the author's every word, to be blown away by the reveal and that just didn't happen here.
Definitely interesting and worth looking into, especially to those who enjoy true crime novels.
I couldn't have been more excited when author Gus Pelagetti asked me to review his book The Wicked Wives. I love true crime novels and the very idea of a bunch of women poisoning their husbands was more than a little provocative. I eagerly agreed to take on the book in exchange for an honest review.
Overall I liked the book but I particularly enjoyed the obvious effort Pelagetti put into making sure the complex web of intrigue didn't overwhelm his readers. Each part of the conspiracy evolves naturally, moving from one event to the next with fluidity I am unused to seeing in the work of first time authors.
Still, for all that I applaud this effort; I also feel the cast is rather shallowly characterized. Take Tom for example. We know he is the First Assistant D.A. with hopes of being elected D.A. when his superior retires, but reading the book cover to cover, I never really understood what drove this character. I wanted to know what made him tick, to get into his head, to understand why he is the way he is especially since he is the primary lead. There are so many characters that one could hardly expect to get to know them all, but still, I would have liked to see a lot more depth to characters like Tom, Hope and Giorgio.
Ultimately my rating came down to a single factor: I called who did it and nothing kills the ending of a whodunit so much realizing the hunch you've been sitting on most of the book is correct. Though I think Pelagatti's mystery has excellent movement, I can't say it kept me guessing and in the end that is what makes a mystery in my eyes. I want to be hanging on the author's every word, to be blown away by the reveal and that just didn't happen here.
Definitely interesting and worth looking into, especially to those who enjoy true crime novels.
July 24, 2012
Gus Pelagatti’s The Wicked Wives reads like a well-researched television re-enactment, bringing life to the fascinating true history of Philadelphia’s 1930s murder trials where seventeen women were arrested for killing their husbands. A wealth of background detail introduces new characters and locations, from the derivation of racial epithets to the plight of immigrant Jews and colored Americans. Carefully described histories help readers keep the many different characters separated as the complex plot unfolds. And occasional short love scenes add intensity.
Dialog is rich and plausible, ringing like old-fashioned TV dramas as it plays across well-drawn courtroom scenes, city streets, rich women’s bedrooms and backyard fig trees and weeds. The atmosphere is redolent with Depression era corruption, and the parallel temptations of illicit sex, hard cash and drugs lay their tracks through Prosecutor Tom Rossi’s investigation.
Different stories are layered throughout this book, with the viewpoint switching from investigation to intrigue to plot. Some memorable characters leap from the page while others hide in the background, and the whole is filled with the sort of scenes that would make a great TV series. While the intricate details make this a slow read, the book becomes hard to put down as the story progresses, revelation piling on revelation, and mysteries always just on the brink of being solved. The ending surprised me, not just because it’s true (and truly amazing) but also for the things I hadn’t guessed as the tale progressed.
A fascinating read, a powerful glimpse into political and social corruption, a haunting depiction of the Depression, and a satisfying crime drama, The Wicked Wives might not be my favorite book, but I certainly enjoyed it.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Dialog is rich and plausible, ringing like old-fashioned TV dramas as it plays across well-drawn courtroom scenes, city streets, rich women’s bedrooms and backyard fig trees and weeds. The atmosphere is redolent with Depression era corruption, and the parallel temptations of illicit sex, hard cash and drugs lay their tracks through Prosecutor Tom Rossi’s investigation.
Different stories are layered throughout this book, with the viewpoint switching from investigation to intrigue to plot. Some memorable characters leap from the page while others hide in the background, and the whole is filled with the sort of scenes that would make a great TV series. While the intricate details make this a slow read, the book becomes hard to put down as the story progresses, revelation piling on revelation, and mysteries always just on the brink of being solved. The ending surprised me, not just because it’s true (and truly amazing) but also for the things I hadn’t guessed as the tale progressed.
A fascinating read, a powerful glimpse into political and social corruption, a haunting depiction of the Depression, and a satisfying crime drama, The Wicked Wives might not be my favorite book, but I certainly enjoyed it.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.
April 4, 2012
The Wicked Wives tells the story of a secret circle of wives murdering their husbands for insurance money. This novel is based on a true story and that made the book more interesting to read. This is a page-turner book, I had sleepless nights reading this. There were times I was tempted to skim the book because I can't wait to find out the head of the poison group.
While reading the story, I had to do a little research on the book as I can't believe that this is indeed based on a true story especially after reading last chapter. I wonder why this story has not been adapted on the big screen, I believe this would be a great Hollywood movie. I really enjoyed reading this book. If you are looking for a great suspense/murder mystery book, I strongly recommend you get this book. You will not be disappointed, that's a promise.
While reading the story, I had to do a little research on the book as I can't believe that this is indeed based on a true story especially after reading last chapter. I wonder why this story has not been adapted on the big screen, I believe this would be a great Hollywood movie. I really enjoyed reading this book. If you are looking for a great suspense/murder mystery book, I strongly recommend you get this book. You will not be disappointed, that's a promise.
February 27, 2012
The author has written this novel in such a way that it comes across as almost perfect. It was like I was sitting there with all the evidence lying in front of me. The authors background as a lawyer has only helped him create a true crime masterpiece.
Throughout the novel there was never a moment that I did not enjoy. There was a lot of characters present throughout however I never lost track of who was who.
Overall a brilliant true crime novel and I look forward to seeing what the author does next.
A copy of this book was received for free and all opinions expressed are my own through reading it.
This review was first published on http://everybookhasasoul.wordpress.com
Throughout the novel there was never a moment that I did not enjoy. There was a lot of characters present throughout however I never lost track of who was who.
Overall a brilliant true crime novel and I look forward to seeing what the author does next.
A copy of this book was received for free and all opinions expressed are my own through reading it.
This review was first published on http://everybookhasasoul.wordpress.com
March 6, 2025
fucking great!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2013
BOOK SYNOPSIS
"Wicked Wives" is based on the true story of the 1938 Philadelphia murder scandals in which seventeen wives were arrested for murdering their husbands. Mastermind conspirator Giorgio DiSipio, a stunning lothario and local tailor who preys upon disenchanted and unfaithful wives, convinces twelve of them to kill their spouses for insurance money. The murder conspiracy is very successful until one lone assistant D.A., Tom Rossi, uncovers the plot and brings the perpetrators to justice. "Wicked Wives" is a story made for Hollywood, combining murder, corruption, treachery, love, lust and phenomenal detail as it vividly captures Depression-era Philadelphia.
My Thoughts
My first exposure to the depravity, the sheer desperate evil perpetrated by these women came fairly soon in the beginning of the story. I was appalled at the lengths to which these women went to ensure their own desires were catered to and the ultimate sacrifice made by the men whose every whim these women had was honored to the best of their ability.
As a matter of fact the further into the narrative I read the uglier the revelations were as to the lengths took to insure life for the women was made easier at the expense of the lives of men they took vows to love and cherish, guess the 'till death do us part' clause was the only vow the women took seriously!
I guess when you are accustomed to a certain standard of living; when prestige and appearance mean more than good moral behavior much less honesty, fidelity or self-sacrifice for the good of another; than one can understand a little better what motivated the women to conspire to and then commit multiple murders.
I will be honest, my first thought was how thankful I was not to know anyone as cold-hearted or calculating as the women portrayed in the pages of this story. For my own peace of mind that made it easier to keep reading and keep shaking my head at just how twisted and shockingly brutal these women were in their pursuit of greed, lust and love!
Have you ever watched a news broadcast that repulsed you at the same time your curiosity was aroused to the point you had to continue watching to see what actually happened and learn why it happened? This tale has the same fascination, it makes you feel ill that there are people motivated so much by greed or lust that they would go to such extremes to get what they want.
In todays world we see things on the news and read about things in newspapers that are much worse than what we read about in this story, however what kept running through my mind is why the women ever really believed their actions would go unpunished when the crimes they committed were so readily apparent to anyone who looked at the evidence of the death's.
For someone who does not read a lot of stories based on true accounts this was really interesting, it read somewhat like a good old-fashioned who-done-it with enough spice, gallows humor and drama mixed in to keep one flipping those pages to see how everything turned out. What really kept me inspired was despite earlier roadblocks put in his way Tom Rossi kept hammering out a case, during his investigations into one of the women he found out that he had stumbled upon a widespread conspiracy which included up to a dozen women who had participated in murdering their husbands for insurance money.
This case spanned four years, it was sensationalized by the press at the time in the book and if it had happened today am sure it would have even more news coverage which played up the more salacious angles to the public. When readers compare forensic investigation methods today, that are far superior to those in the 1930's time period when the murders took place, they should be glad that we have the knowledge, manpower and technology available otherwise quite obviously there would be more criminals get off scot free just like some of the people in this book did.
All in all can truly say though that along with the totally unforeseen twist at the end, when the mastermind of the crimes is committed, the way the author took fact mixed with fiction made for a pretty compelling read. This one could indeed be made into a movie easily as it has all the qualities Hollywood looks for to grab audiences attention and keep them watching!
[Kindle copy from author in exchange for honest review]
August 17, 2012
"Oh, what a tangled web we weave ... when first we practice to deceive" ...
Philadelphia in 1938 ... in the shadow of the Great Depression and the prelude to World War II is a murder conspiracy scandal that would rock the nation's birthplace of the Declaration of Independence. Seventeen dissatisfied, unfaithful, greedy wives and their male conspirators use poison to murder their husbands for the insurance money.
Based on a true story, author Gus Pelagatti weaves a tale of deceit, lust, adultery, conspiracy and murder in a highly publicized sensational poison murder scandal involving seventeen Wicked Wives, with a sizzling courtroom drama that rocked the citizens of Philadelphia!
Assistant D.A. Tom Rossi investigates the suspicious murder of Reggie Stoner, despite opposition and threats to his political career. What starts out as a murder investigation quickly spirals into one that uncovers an elaborate plan that included adultery, drugs, murder, blackmail and insurance fraud. Seventeen disgruntled wives are manipulated by a charismatic womanizing tailor, Giorgio DiSipio, who seduces the women and convinces them to take out life insurance policies on their husbands, and poison them for the insurance money. Giorgio is aided in the murder plot by a "friend" who is an undertaker, who performs autopsies on the victims, claiming that they all died from various forms of pneumonia. Can Assistant D.A. Rossi bring these devious murderers to justice, or will The Wicked Wives and their conspirators get away with the perfect murder?
The Wicked Wives is an intriguing historical fiction based on a true story of the scandalous 1938 poison murder case in Philadelphia. The author has cleverly weaved a fascinating tale of deceit, lust, conspiracy and murder that keeps the reader sitting on the edge of their seat. The reader is transported back to the Depression era of 1938 Philadelphia, a time period of flappers, gangsters, corruption and hard times. Rich in detail and vivid descriptions, the reader goes along for a captivating thrill ride as the scandalous conspiracy unfolds and what could have been a perfect murder culminates in a riveting courtroom drama that will keep you guessing and holding your breath until the conclusion.
The author has created an intriguingly complex cast of characters who are a fascinating study of different personalities. The interweaving of the characters is seamless with clever dialogue and interactions that make this a powerful and compelling story. I have to admit that I was fascinated by these clever women and by the mastermind, Giorgio, but I absolutely loved following Assistant D.A. Rossi's investigation. As a diehard fan of legal thrillers, I think that the author's professional experience as a trial attorney enabled him to masterfully weave a tale that packs a powerful punch.
The Wicked Wives is a fascinating story that is a must read for true crime fans. This tangled web of deceit, conspiracy, adultery, murder and courtroom drama would make one hell of a Hollywood movie!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Pump Up Your Book! Virtual Book Publicity Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Philadelphia in 1938 ... in the shadow of the Great Depression and the prelude to World War II is a murder conspiracy scandal that would rock the nation's birthplace of the Declaration of Independence. Seventeen dissatisfied, unfaithful, greedy wives and their male conspirators use poison to murder their husbands for the insurance money.
Based on a true story, author Gus Pelagatti weaves a tale of deceit, lust, adultery, conspiracy and murder in a highly publicized sensational poison murder scandal involving seventeen Wicked Wives, with a sizzling courtroom drama that rocked the citizens of Philadelphia!
Assistant D.A. Tom Rossi investigates the suspicious murder of Reggie Stoner, despite opposition and threats to his political career. What starts out as a murder investigation quickly spirals into one that uncovers an elaborate plan that included adultery, drugs, murder, blackmail and insurance fraud. Seventeen disgruntled wives are manipulated by a charismatic womanizing tailor, Giorgio DiSipio, who seduces the women and convinces them to take out life insurance policies on their husbands, and poison them for the insurance money. Giorgio is aided in the murder plot by a "friend" who is an undertaker, who performs autopsies on the victims, claiming that they all died from various forms of pneumonia. Can Assistant D.A. Rossi bring these devious murderers to justice, or will The Wicked Wives and their conspirators get away with the perfect murder?
The Wicked Wives is an intriguing historical fiction based on a true story of the scandalous 1938 poison murder case in Philadelphia. The author has cleverly weaved a fascinating tale of deceit, lust, conspiracy and murder that keeps the reader sitting on the edge of their seat. The reader is transported back to the Depression era of 1938 Philadelphia, a time period of flappers, gangsters, corruption and hard times. Rich in detail and vivid descriptions, the reader goes along for a captivating thrill ride as the scandalous conspiracy unfolds and what could have been a perfect murder culminates in a riveting courtroom drama that will keep you guessing and holding your breath until the conclusion.
The author has created an intriguingly complex cast of characters who are a fascinating study of different personalities. The interweaving of the characters is seamless with clever dialogue and interactions that make this a powerful and compelling story. I have to admit that I was fascinated by these clever women and by the mastermind, Giorgio, but I absolutely loved following Assistant D.A. Rossi's investigation. As a diehard fan of legal thrillers, I think that the author's professional experience as a trial attorney enabled him to masterfully weave a tale that packs a powerful punch.
The Wicked Wives is a fascinating story that is a must read for true crime fans. This tangled web of deceit, conspiracy, adultery, murder and courtroom drama would make one hell of a Hollywood movie!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Pump Up Your Book! Virtual Book Publicity Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
March 13, 2012
I used to read quite a lot of true crime so when Gus Pelagatti contacted me requesting a review of Wicked Wives my interest was piqued. The 1938 case the author has based his novel on is quite sensational, particularly for the times, though a similar case in modern times would be no less so. Based on a true story that occurred in Philadelphia, Gus Pelagatti's fictionalised account of a complex murder conspiracy is an interesting and entertaining read.
When DA Tom Rossi, despite venomous opposition and threats, persisted in his investigation into the suspicious death of Reggie Stoner, he had no idea he would eventually uncover an elaborate scheme that involved murder, adultery, drugs, insurance fraud and blackmail. Manipulated by charismatic tailor, Giorgio DiSipio, desperate wives agreed to take out life insurance policies on their husbands and then stood by, or actively participated, in their murders. Successfully negotiating political corruption, deceit and threats, Tom Rossi would eventually bring more than twenty people to trial on charges of murder and conspiracy to murder.
I found the story of the case quite fascinating, it's an elaborate web of conspiracy aided by corruption, with unlikely criminal suspects and victims. Yet it took just one loose thread, and a determined prosecutor to unravel, what could have been considered the perfect crime. In fact I would think there were probably wives and their victims who were never identified. Pelagatii builds the story not unlike the way a trial lawyer might sum up a case to a jury, providing background on the people involved and ensuring the facts are unambiguous. The twist, when it comes, is unexpected, proof that sometimes, real life is stranger than fiction.
Pelagatti's experience as a trial lawyer is evident in the novel, though there is little of the actual court proceedings, it is structured not unlike a brief with facts and details carefully laid out to reach an unassailable conclusion. The author, who grew up in just a few streets away from the infamous tailor shop, interviewed many of the original lawyers, detectives and witnesses in the case. It's not clear how much of the personalities of the conspirators are gleaned from known facts, or to what extent the author has added his own interpretation to the emotions and motivations of the men and women involved, but it reads as genuine.
It is easy to forget that part of this tale is fictionalised, as the tone is closer to a true life crime recount than a novel. It matters little though for Wicked Wives is an intriguing story of a scandalous and unique crime.
When DA Tom Rossi, despite venomous opposition and threats, persisted in his investigation into the suspicious death of Reggie Stoner, he had no idea he would eventually uncover an elaborate scheme that involved murder, adultery, drugs, insurance fraud and blackmail. Manipulated by charismatic tailor, Giorgio DiSipio, desperate wives agreed to take out life insurance policies on their husbands and then stood by, or actively participated, in their murders. Successfully negotiating political corruption, deceit and threats, Tom Rossi would eventually bring more than twenty people to trial on charges of murder and conspiracy to murder.
I found the story of the case quite fascinating, it's an elaborate web of conspiracy aided by corruption, with unlikely criminal suspects and victims. Yet it took just one loose thread, and a determined prosecutor to unravel, what could have been considered the perfect crime. In fact I would think there were probably wives and their victims who were never identified. Pelagatii builds the story not unlike the way a trial lawyer might sum up a case to a jury, providing background on the people involved and ensuring the facts are unambiguous. The twist, when it comes, is unexpected, proof that sometimes, real life is stranger than fiction.
Pelagatti's experience as a trial lawyer is evident in the novel, though there is little of the actual court proceedings, it is structured not unlike a brief with facts and details carefully laid out to reach an unassailable conclusion. The author, who grew up in just a few streets away from the infamous tailor shop, interviewed many of the original lawyers, detectives and witnesses in the case. It's not clear how much of the personalities of the conspirators are gleaned from known facts, or to what extent the author has added his own interpretation to the emotions and motivations of the men and women involved, but it reads as genuine.
It is easy to forget that part of this tale is fictionalised, as the tone is closer to a true life crime recount than a novel. It matters little though for Wicked Wives is an intriguing story of a scandalous and unique crime.
February 6, 2013
Wicked Wives is based on true events that took place in Philadelphia in the 30's and 40's. Gus Pelagatti took some events that happened years ago, in the 30's and fictionalized them producing a story with two parts. One part deals with some of the stories of the characters who were desperate for money and/or an escape from their current situation. The second part is the investigation and trials of the characters involved.
This was a sometimes dry, sometimes humorous, fact based story; I could imagine that I was sitting in a lecture hall, learning the story of a group of people who took to poisoning their husbands to get insurance money. They all had slightly differing reasons, but they all had one thing in common. They were involved with a certain individual who made things happen, either supplying poison, helping to administer poison or even planning out murder in other ways. As long as he received a cut of the insurance money, this guy was happy to help. In fact, he made sure there were policies out on these hapless husbands. Each woman also seemed to have a basic lack of regard or compassion, as well as an obsession with this man - a tailor who considered himself quite the ladies' man.
The dialogue reminded me of dialogue in old black and white crime films I used to see when I was little - those films that were always on t.v. when we were supposed to be in bed, but we would sneak out to see what our mom was watching. (we always got caught, though it took her a little while to catch us). Props on the realistic dialogue that fit the time era. The attitudes the characters' displayed also fit the times - this is set way before women's liberation was came around, when women and men had double standards.
As I mentioned earlier, the narration was interesting - a mix of a report like fiction and procedural. During the story itself, it seemed that there was no mystery - Pelagatti lays everything out, the murders, the participants, the investigations and the trial. Except for the one very huge twist at the end. I was surprised - it was a good plot twist. Didn't see it coming.
Interesting to me is the fact that Pelagatti is an attorney, and grew up hearing stories of the true life crime ring he writes about. More info at his website. As a debut crime novel, not a bad job. I have a habit of giving up reading books that bore me, and this novel kept me interested, especially for a book that isn't in my normal reading interest. If it keeps my interest it's a plus for me.
This was a sometimes dry, sometimes humorous, fact based story; I could imagine that I was sitting in a lecture hall, learning the story of a group of people who took to poisoning their husbands to get insurance money. They all had slightly differing reasons, but they all had one thing in common. They were involved with a certain individual who made things happen, either supplying poison, helping to administer poison or even planning out murder in other ways. As long as he received a cut of the insurance money, this guy was happy to help. In fact, he made sure there were policies out on these hapless husbands. Each woman also seemed to have a basic lack of regard or compassion, as well as an obsession with this man - a tailor who considered himself quite the ladies' man.
The dialogue reminded me of dialogue in old black and white crime films I used to see when I was little - those films that were always on t.v. when we were supposed to be in bed, but we would sneak out to see what our mom was watching. (we always got caught, though it took her a little while to catch us). Props on the realistic dialogue that fit the time era. The attitudes the characters' displayed also fit the times - this is set way before women's liberation was came around, when women and men had double standards.
As I mentioned earlier, the narration was interesting - a mix of a report like fiction and procedural. During the story itself, it seemed that there was no mystery - Pelagatti lays everything out, the murders, the participants, the investigations and the trial. Except for the one very huge twist at the end. I was surprised - it was a good plot twist. Didn't see it coming.
Interesting to me is the fact that Pelagatti is an attorney, and grew up hearing stories of the true life crime ring he writes about. More info at his website. As a debut crime novel, not a bad job. I have a habit of giving up reading books that bore me, and this novel kept me interested, especially for a book that isn't in my normal reading interest. If it keeps my interest it's a plus for me.
November 7, 2011
Are you a fan of True Crime stories ? Made your way through Ann Rule's collection and is looking for a new author to discover ? Sick of hearing that it's just the men that do the killing ? In history, when it comes to murder -it is said that women tend to kill in a more subtle way like poisioning rather than chopping into little bits , though of course that's not to say women throughout history in the world of murderers haven't done that.
The Wicked Wives takes us into the heart of Philadephia in the year 1938 , a time when Gangs and Outlaws still roamed the city - flappers etc. It was a scandal of a time I tell you , a time when women who were disenchanted by their husbands - left home alone to cater for the house , cook their meals while they went out and worked and many of them had mistresses . For those women who were'nt weak minded , they were unfaithful to their husbands - figuring an eye for an eye , a tooth for a tooth as the saying goes.
In The Wicked Wives , it only took one man to set the ball rolling which sounds familiar as we look at all the crimes committed in the past - one man to lead and others follow like sheep. Giorgio DiSipio was a mastermind and a stunning lothario - just what these seventeen women needed - somebody who was hunky and paid attention to them , made them feel like the centre of attention . He convinced these women to kill their husbands for their insurance money and the murders were going very successful and money was rolling in until one assistant DA -Tom Rossi started to unravel the plot which as the book The Wicked Wives progress we see the wives brought to justice .
The Wicked Wives puts all of the other murderous women's tales like Eileen - Monster to shame as these women were clever , manipulative and cunning as each page turns you read and discover ways to kill your husbands.
The author Gus Pelagatti has written The Wicked wives in such a way that you feel like you are sitting there with all the evidence in front of you and you can see that his career as a lawyer has helped shape his novel to a level of perfection that you do not see in most Crime Novels - fiction and non-fiction.
I look forward to reading more True Crime by Gus Pelagatti , if he decides to spotlight any other true crime novels that occured in Philadelphia or the greater American States.
The Wicked Wives is the perfect read for any Crime Buff or Law Abiding Citizen who loves to dabble with Crime, Forensics and the Law.
The Wicked Wives takes us into the heart of Philadephia in the year 1938 , a time when Gangs and Outlaws still roamed the city - flappers etc. It was a scandal of a time I tell you , a time when women who were disenchanted by their husbands - left home alone to cater for the house , cook their meals while they went out and worked and many of them had mistresses . For those women who were'nt weak minded , they were unfaithful to their husbands - figuring an eye for an eye , a tooth for a tooth as the saying goes.
In The Wicked Wives , it only took one man to set the ball rolling which sounds familiar as we look at all the crimes committed in the past - one man to lead and others follow like sheep. Giorgio DiSipio was a mastermind and a stunning lothario - just what these seventeen women needed - somebody who was hunky and paid attention to them , made them feel like the centre of attention . He convinced these women to kill their husbands for their insurance money and the murders were going very successful and money was rolling in until one assistant DA -Tom Rossi started to unravel the plot which as the book The Wicked Wives progress we see the wives brought to justice .
The Wicked Wives puts all of the other murderous women's tales like Eileen - Monster to shame as these women were clever , manipulative and cunning as each page turns you read and discover ways to kill your husbands.
The author Gus Pelagatti has written The Wicked wives in such a way that you feel like you are sitting there with all the evidence in front of you and you can see that his career as a lawyer has helped shape his novel to a level of perfection that you do not see in most Crime Novels - fiction and non-fiction.
I look forward to reading more True Crime by Gus Pelagatti , if he decides to spotlight any other true crime novels that occured in Philadelphia or the greater American States.
The Wicked Wives is the perfect read for any Crime Buff or Law Abiding Citizen who loves to dabble with Crime, Forensics and the Law.
January 26, 2013
The Wicked Wives: A Novel Based on a True Story is a story set in Depression-Era Philadelphia and filled with murder, corruption, treachery, love and lust written about in vivid detail.
Giorgio DiSipio - a local tailor known as the 'Don Juan of Passyunk Avenue' - preyed upon disenchanted and unfaithful wives - eventually convincing twelve of them to kill their spouses for the insurance money. The murder conspiracy is very successful, until one lone assistant District Attorney, Tom Rossi, uncovers the plot and brings the perpetrators to justice.
All in all, seventeen wives were arrested and charged with the murders of their husbands. First among them being Lillian Stoner, who murders her husband Reggie and depends on her lover Giorgio to feed her opium habit. There was Eva Bell Fitzpatrick, a risque redhead who loves sex and gambling, and whose gambling debts lead her in to the worst kind of trouble - murder. Rose Grady was known as the 'Kiss of Death Widow' - married four times, she was thrice a widow - looking for affection and support for herself and her two young daughters, she finds both in Giorgio DiSipio. Joanna Napoli was the full-figured gift shop owner - the only 'Wicked Wife' to be 'blinded by love' - and her obsession with Giorgio leads her to do the unthinkable.
Assigned to arrest and prosecute all the conspirators including the wives for the poison murders, assistant District Attorney Tom Rossi incurs the wrath of the corrupt Deputy Mayor Bill Evans after he refuses to protect Bill Evans' niece Lillan Stoner from murder charges. The Deputy Mayor sets the political machinery in motion to get Tom Rossi disbarred, using the only ammunition he is able to find, Tom's relationship with nurse Hope Daniels. Part Negro, Hope has successfully lived her life as a white woman, but Bill Evans uses the bigotry of Philadelphia voters to derail Tom Rossi's campaign to be elected District Attorney.
To be completely honest, while I enjoyed the underlying murder mystery, and appreciated how well-researched the book was, there were so many characters involved that I had trouble keeping them all straight in my mind. The Wicked Wives: A Novel Based on a True Story by Gus Pelagatti was gritty, violent and incredibly realistic. I certainly don't recommend this book for 'faint-of-heart' or squeamish readers. I give The Wicked Wives: A Novel Based on a True Story by Gus Pelagatti an A!
Giorgio DiSipio - a local tailor known as the 'Don Juan of Passyunk Avenue' - preyed upon disenchanted and unfaithful wives - eventually convincing twelve of them to kill their spouses for the insurance money. The murder conspiracy is very successful, until one lone assistant District Attorney, Tom Rossi, uncovers the plot and brings the perpetrators to justice.
All in all, seventeen wives were arrested and charged with the murders of their husbands. First among them being Lillian Stoner, who murders her husband Reggie and depends on her lover Giorgio to feed her opium habit. There was Eva Bell Fitzpatrick, a risque redhead who loves sex and gambling, and whose gambling debts lead her in to the worst kind of trouble - murder. Rose Grady was known as the 'Kiss of Death Widow' - married four times, she was thrice a widow - looking for affection and support for herself and her two young daughters, she finds both in Giorgio DiSipio. Joanna Napoli was the full-figured gift shop owner - the only 'Wicked Wife' to be 'blinded by love' - and her obsession with Giorgio leads her to do the unthinkable.
Assigned to arrest and prosecute all the conspirators including the wives for the poison murders, assistant District Attorney Tom Rossi incurs the wrath of the corrupt Deputy Mayor Bill Evans after he refuses to protect Bill Evans' niece Lillan Stoner from murder charges. The Deputy Mayor sets the political machinery in motion to get Tom Rossi disbarred, using the only ammunition he is able to find, Tom's relationship with nurse Hope Daniels. Part Negro, Hope has successfully lived her life as a white woman, but Bill Evans uses the bigotry of Philadelphia voters to derail Tom Rossi's campaign to be elected District Attorney.
To be completely honest, while I enjoyed the underlying murder mystery, and appreciated how well-researched the book was, there were so many characters involved that I had trouble keeping them all straight in my mind. The Wicked Wives: A Novel Based on a True Story by Gus Pelagatti was gritty, violent and incredibly realistic. I certainly don't recommend this book for 'faint-of-heart' or squeamish readers. I give The Wicked Wives: A Novel Based on a True Story by Gus Pelagatti an A!
October 30, 2013
Wicked Wives is an interesting journey through a seedy crime story based on a true story of insurance fraud and murder in Southern Philadelphia in the 1930's. Assistant District Attorney and true blue good guy, Tom Rossi, investigates a suspected murder of Reggie Stoner by his wife Lillian. This brings him into the cross hairs of Mayor Bill Evans, Lillian's rich uncle, whom she has been involved in a scandalous affair with, trading sex for money and protection against prosecution. Evans battles it out with Tom using any defamatory information he can dig up, and threats against his future in the D.A.'s office to dissuade Tom from continuing with the investigation. He even goes as far as getting Tom's girlfriend fired from her job because she is of colored decent.
Tom refuses to bend to the will of the crooked members of the political system and forges ahead. The line of suspected wives keeps getting longer, and number of deaths suspected for fraudulent insurance claims steadily increases. This leads Tom to wonder how large a conspiracy he is dealing with, and who is the Lady in Black and her giant that he believes are the leaders of the whole sordid operation.
I did enjoy this book. The fact that it was based on a true story fascinated me. I couldn't believe how many men and women were engaging in sexual affairs with each other, and that most were involved in murder plots. I found it very disturbing how easy it was to insure someone, claim you were their relative to benefit from the insurance policy, and actually get away with it.
I found some of the characters quite funny, like Bertha, the neighbor who testifies against Lillian about the games of "squirrel" played in the car in front of her house. It was a little hard to believe how many women fell in love with Giorgio, even when they knew he was with so many other women, and had caught him red handed doing the deed, not to mention he was not the brightest crayon in the box. I know it was based on a true story, but either those women were really stupid, or Giorgio's charm may have been embellished.
The ending was a real twist, that I don't think you'll see coming.
I enjoyed this book more as a reference to that era, and learning about something that actually happened. Parts of it did read like a gritty crime novel, but others were jam packed with information about the gangsters, mob leaders, and how they arrived in America and the succession of people who came in and out of power.
Tom refuses to bend to the will of the crooked members of the political system and forges ahead. The line of suspected wives keeps getting longer, and number of deaths suspected for fraudulent insurance claims steadily increases. This leads Tom to wonder how large a conspiracy he is dealing with, and who is the Lady in Black and her giant that he believes are the leaders of the whole sordid operation.
I did enjoy this book. The fact that it was based on a true story fascinated me. I couldn't believe how many men and women were engaging in sexual affairs with each other, and that most were involved in murder plots. I found it very disturbing how easy it was to insure someone, claim you were their relative to benefit from the insurance policy, and actually get away with it.
I found some of the characters quite funny, like Bertha, the neighbor who testifies against Lillian about the games of "squirrel" played in the car in front of her house. It was a little hard to believe how many women fell in love with Giorgio, even when they knew he was with so many other women, and had caught him red handed doing the deed, not to mention he was not the brightest crayon in the box. I know it was based on a true story, but either those women were really stupid, or Giorgio's charm may have been embellished.
The ending was a real twist, that I don't think you'll see coming.
I enjoyed this book more as a reference to that era, and learning about something that actually happened. Parts of it did read like a gritty crime novel, but others were jam packed with information about the gangsters, mob leaders, and how they arrived in America and the succession of people who came in and out of power.
August 6, 2012
This is typically not my genre for books, but after reading the first chapter, I had to read how this story played out. With short chapters and a fast-paced writing style, I quickly read through this story. The story has lots of dialogue and minimal descriptive elements, so you are able to move right along.
I found the government corruption and misuse of power to be much the same as what we read about in today's news. Even in the 1930's people's use of drugs, sex, and violence mimic much of what we read today, but today, people are caught due to high-tech autopsies, fingerprint testing, and DNA technology. I found the detective end of the case very interesting as they pieced the crimes together the "old-fashioned" way. Even though one of the wives (I won't spoil it and say which one) was not found guilty, I think the way the detective and DA stuck to their case was to be commended. They had much to lose by staying on this case and I'm not sure in today's harsh political climate, that someone would risk it all to make it right. I have to hope there are people much like D.A.Tom Rossi still in this world.
Pelagatti obviously spent much time and effort researching these cases and finding ways to make the story even more interesting to the reader. The way the story played out reminded me a lot of those 20/20 type of news specials that are on weeknight TV. The story also reminded me of THE DEVIL IN THE WHITE CITY, a story of murder during the World's Fair in Chicago. Yes, even in simpler times, there was sex, drugs and murder.
The story of all these murderers and their victims was heartbreaking, as so many women were deceived by one man. I must warn you that the sexual activities in this novel are descriptive and frequent, but a necessary part of the story. The lives taken because of lust and greed were unfortunate and the ripple effects from the mistakes of these women were felt for many years.
This novel has true crime, suspense, and historical fiction wrapped into one exciting novel. All the way through the novel, the author keeps you on your toes and then ends it with a shocking twist that will be sure to drop your jaw.
Gus Pelagatti is a practicing trial lawyer with offices in Philadelphia. He based this novel on numerous interviews with judges, lawyers, and witnesses involved in these cases.
I found the government corruption and misuse of power to be much the same as what we read about in today's news. Even in the 1930's people's use of drugs, sex, and violence mimic much of what we read today, but today, people are caught due to high-tech autopsies, fingerprint testing, and DNA technology. I found the detective end of the case very interesting as they pieced the crimes together the "old-fashioned" way. Even though one of the wives (I won't spoil it and say which one) was not found guilty, I think the way the detective and DA stuck to their case was to be commended. They had much to lose by staying on this case and I'm not sure in today's harsh political climate, that someone would risk it all to make it right. I have to hope there are people much like D.A.Tom Rossi still in this world.
Pelagatti obviously spent much time and effort researching these cases and finding ways to make the story even more interesting to the reader. The way the story played out reminded me a lot of those 20/20 type of news specials that are on weeknight TV. The story also reminded me of THE DEVIL IN THE WHITE CITY, a story of murder during the World's Fair in Chicago. Yes, even in simpler times, there was sex, drugs and murder.
The story of all these murderers and their victims was heartbreaking, as so many women were deceived by one man. I must warn you that the sexual activities in this novel are descriptive and frequent, but a necessary part of the story. The lives taken because of lust and greed were unfortunate and the ripple effects from the mistakes of these women were felt for many years.
This novel has true crime, suspense, and historical fiction wrapped into one exciting novel. All the way through the novel, the author keeps you on your toes and then ends it with a shocking twist that will be sure to drop your jaw.
Gus Pelagatti is a practicing trial lawyer with offices in Philadelphia. He based this novel on numerous interviews with judges, lawyers, and witnesses involved in these cases.
October 21, 2012
The Wicked Wives: A novel based on a true story by Gus Pelagatti
3.5 Stars More Than Just OK, October 21, 2012
The Pros --
When Mr. Pelagatti asked me to kindly review his new novel, I was hesitant since I do not usually choose to read novels based on fact. However, once I read the synopsis I was intrigued with the subject matter, so I agree. I’m glad I got the chance to read this book. It really has a gripping story and the historical accuracy was wonderful. I loved reading about this era and it was really brought to life for me with the authors writing. Learning about the ‘mob’, reading about how minorities were spoken to and about, learning how the police worked in that day and age as opposed to how things work nowadays was fascinating.
The story itself was sometimes difficult to believe but in my heart, I know that there are people in this world just like Giorgio The Gigolo and all of the Black Widows and the Deputy Mayor.
You just feel a compulsion while reading this to find out who did what, who they did it too and you *need* to find out the mystery behind The Black Widow and The Giant.
Mr. Pelagatti wrote a fine story, a mesmerizing story. He wrote well fleshed out characters that you could easily sympathize with or hate without compunction. The historical was as accurate as anything else written about this era and you could easily see the amount of research the author put into this book.
The Cons----------------------------
All that aside, there are issues with the book. This novel desperately needs editing. There are continuity problems, misused words, were there king sized beds in the ‘30’s and early 40’s?
I can understand that when a budding author is at the finish line and the only thing left to do is to edit, that they may not even see the mistakes since they KNOW what the book is supposed to be saying. Editing needs to be done with fresh eyes, and a Beta Reader would be helpful.
I can’t quibble to much with the mistakes because I make them when merely writing a simple review. Mistakes I do not see until it’s too late.
Don’t; let these issues put you off from reading this novel, it really is a superb story and you would be missing out if you did.
August 5, 2012
The year is 1937, and the citizens of Philadelphia are, for the most part, still feeling the aftereffects of The Great Depression. But several of the city's housewives are finding themselves suddenly flush. They are receiving payouts from their deceased husbands' insurance policies--by stealthily killing them.
Helping the women commit these heinous deeds is the Italian-born Lothario, Giorgio DiSipio. As he seduces woman after woman, he convinces each to kill their hubbies--so he can profit from it, of course. Lots of bodies pile up until prosecutor Tom Rossi uncovers and tries to put a stop to this terrible crime ring.
The cover of this novel says it was based on a true story, so I'm not sure how many of the events in the book happened, and how much was dramatization. I still enjoyed the book.
What made this such an amusing read was the wide array of characters--each had their own distinct personality and were so entertaining. Eva Bell is a relentless flirt and hits on any man in her general vicinity. Lillian is a drama queen who plays everyone in her life. Giorgio has an insatiable sexual appetite and plays Italian opera music while he beds women on the sofa in the back of his tailor's shop.
I fully relished seeing Tom Rossi dig in and investigate the case. Even though he was met with roadblocks at every turn, he always persisted, knowing the next big break was soon to come. Needless to say, society was very different at that time; threats were made and bad things happened in Tom's private life as he made progress in the case.
The only issue I had while reading this book is that sometimes too many details and side stories were given. I would sometimes skip whole paragraphs because I didn't feel what I was reading about was really relevant to the story as a whole.
I think the author did a phenomenal job with his research for this book. No matter if it was fact or fiction, it made for a compelling novel.
Helping the women commit these heinous deeds is the Italian-born Lothario, Giorgio DiSipio. As he seduces woman after woman, he convinces each to kill their hubbies--so he can profit from it, of course. Lots of bodies pile up until prosecutor Tom Rossi uncovers and tries to put a stop to this terrible crime ring.
The cover of this novel says it was based on a true story, so I'm not sure how many of the events in the book happened, and how much was dramatization. I still enjoyed the book.
What made this such an amusing read was the wide array of characters--each had their own distinct personality and were so entertaining. Eva Bell is a relentless flirt and hits on any man in her general vicinity. Lillian is a drama queen who plays everyone in her life. Giorgio has an insatiable sexual appetite and plays Italian opera music while he beds women on the sofa in the back of his tailor's shop.
I fully relished seeing Tom Rossi dig in and investigate the case. Even though he was met with roadblocks at every turn, he always persisted, knowing the next big break was soon to come. Needless to say, society was very different at that time; threats were made and bad things happened in Tom's private life as he made progress in the case.
The only issue I had while reading this book is that sometimes too many details and side stories were given. I would sometimes skip whole paragraphs because I didn't feel what I was reading about was really relevant to the story as a whole.
I think the author did a phenomenal job with his research for this book. No matter if it was fact or fiction, it made for a compelling novel.
April 15, 2015
Tom Rossi is in line to be an assistant District Attorney. While on a case, he meets Lillian Stoner, who just lost her husband to pneumonia. But something is fishy to Tom and he wants to continue his investigation. Unfortunately Lillian is the niece of a high political leader. It is made clear to Tom that if he pursues this case he will not make assistant DA. But Tom proceeds anyway.
Enter Giorgio DeSipio, a well known womanizer. He is well known to the ladies in Philadelphia. He works the unhappily married women; he knows how to keep them wanting more but to never get attached. Giorgio is recruited to get the women to take out insurance policies on their husbands, with the help of corrupt insurance agents. Then the wives kill their husbands for the insurance money, in 1938 many people died from pneumonia and such which is similar to how some poisons work. Of course Giorgio has plenty of women that want to make him an honest man and there are plenty of unhappy, adulterous women to keep him going.
I admit that I have a love/hate relationship with true crime stories. I love to read them but there are some that are so dry about the facts that they just make the story unbearable. I admit that it was a little challenging for me to get into the beginning of the story. There are a lot of characters so I had a harder time sorting them out. Now, once I had that down, I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next.
I felt for Tom, his is trying to do the right thing but he is getting pressure to stop the investigation. There was clearly a lot of research done because I felt like I was right there trying to figure out what is going on. Plus knowing that this actually happened back in the 30’s Philadelphia just made it even better.
For those that like a good true crime story, this is one book you don’t wan to miss out on.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Enter Giorgio DeSipio, a well known womanizer. He is well known to the ladies in Philadelphia. He works the unhappily married women; he knows how to keep them wanting more but to never get attached. Giorgio is recruited to get the women to take out insurance policies on their husbands, with the help of corrupt insurance agents. Then the wives kill their husbands for the insurance money, in 1938 many people died from pneumonia and such which is similar to how some poisons work. Of course Giorgio has plenty of women that want to make him an honest man and there are plenty of unhappy, adulterous women to keep him going.
I admit that I have a love/hate relationship with true crime stories. I love to read them but there are some that are so dry about the facts that they just make the story unbearable. I admit that it was a little challenging for me to get into the beginning of the story. There are a lot of characters so I had a harder time sorting them out. Now, once I had that down, I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next.
I felt for Tom, his is trying to do the right thing but he is getting pressure to stop the investigation. There was clearly a lot of research done because I felt like I was right there trying to figure out what is going on. Plus knowing that this actually happened back in the 30’s Philadelphia just made it even better.
For those that like a good true crime story, this is one book you don’t wan to miss out on.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2012
Due to the fact that this fictional novel is based on the true events of 17 wives, living in Philadelphia in 1937 to 1939, who murdered their husbands to cash in on insurance money makes this an extremely attention-grabbing read. The author has woven these true life events into a story that will grab your attention and keep you fascinated.
The story takes place during the Depression where times were extremely hard and money and jobs were few and far between. It centers around four women who are bored with their marriages and in need of money. They all seem to share one common thread, Giorgio DiSipio. He is a tailor in south Philadelphia who has quite the reputation with the married women and is also the inspiration for the poisoning of their husbands after an insurance policy is obtained under false pretenses.
Prosecutor Tom Rossi has the unenviable task of conducting an investigation where clues and information are scarce. His investigation leads to a confrontation with Deputy Mayor Evans which jeopardizes his future political dreams. This investigation will lead Tom on a path of murder and corruption that will prove to be a challenging and dangerous endeavor.
The characters in the story were portrayed in a way that kept the suspense building throughout. The dialogue and interaction amongst the characters was accomplished in a fashion that blended their own personal stories together in a convincing way.
Gus Pelagatti has put a story together that reflects the amount of research involved and succeeded in making it very authentic. His writing style kept me interested and anxious while painting me a picture of the people and places contained in the story. The fact that this is based on a true story makes this a very engaging book that I would recommend to all readers.
The story takes place during the Depression where times were extremely hard and money and jobs were few and far between. It centers around four women who are bored with their marriages and in need of money. They all seem to share one common thread, Giorgio DiSipio. He is a tailor in south Philadelphia who has quite the reputation with the married women and is also the inspiration for the poisoning of their husbands after an insurance policy is obtained under false pretenses.
Prosecutor Tom Rossi has the unenviable task of conducting an investigation where clues and information are scarce. His investigation leads to a confrontation with Deputy Mayor Evans which jeopardizes his future political dreams. This investigation will lead Tom on a path of murder and corruption that will prove to be a challenging and dangerous endeavor.
The characters in the story were portrayed in a way that kept the suspense building throughout. The dialogue and interaction amongst the characters was accomplished in a fashion that blended their own personal stories together in a convincing way.
Gus Pelagatti has put a story together that reflects the amount of research involved and succeeded in making it very authentic. His writing style kept me interested and anxious while painting me a picture of the people and places contained in the story. The fact that this is based on a true story makes this a very engaging book that I would recommend to all readers.
February 12, 2012
While Gus Pelagatti is no Ann Rule or even a Joe McGinniss when it comes to true crime genre, he is more than adequate at relating the details of multiple murders involving a pint sized Casanova named Giorgio DiSipio and the many women he induced to off their spouses for the insurance money which he then graciously helped them spend. The monetary amounts involved were paltry and by today’s standards would be deemed hardly worth the effort, but in the Depression ridden 1930’s a few thousand dollars amounted to a Kings ransom and Giorgio was definitely adept at using his powers of sexual persuasion in convincing seventeen women to “go for the gold”.
THE WICKED WIVES, is author Pelagatti’s novelized version of a true tale of conspiracy, deception, murder and political corruption in Philadelphia. There are so many villains in this saga that you need a veritable scorecard to keep track of the cast of characters. WIVES is like a 30’s version of The Lone Ranger, with assistant D.A. Tom Rossi in dogged pursuit and willing to risk his love life and his career to insure the truth is told and that the victims receive justice.
If there is one thing that the reader is made aware of it’s the undeniable fact that the 30’s were a tough era where people were judged by ethnicity, political corruption ran rampant, and death due to influenza, heart failure and pneumonia (or murder disguised as any of the aforementioned) were a common occurrence.
While WICKED WIVES will never be recognized as a great work of literature, I must extol props to the author for his unusual ending. It was entirely unexpected and if there is anything I really enjoy it’s being surprised. 3 ½ stars.
THE WICKED WIVES, is author Pelagatti’s novelized version of a true tale of conspiracy, deception, murder and political corruption in Philadelphia. There are so many villains in this saga that you need a veritable scorecard to keep track of the cast of characters. WIVES is like a 30’s version of The Lone Ranger, with assistant D.A. Tom Rossi in dogged pursuit and willing to risk his love life and his career to insure the truth is told and that the victims receive justice.
If there is one thing that the reader is made aware of it’s the undeniable fact that the 30’s were a tough era where people were judged by ethnicity, political corruption ran rampant, and death due to influenza, heart failure and pneumonia (or murder disguised as any of the aforementioned) were a common occurrence.
While WICKED WIVES will never be recognized as a great work of literature, I must extol props to the author for his unusual ending. It was entirely unexpected and if there is anything I really enjoy it’s being surprised. 3 ½ stars.
March 21, 2012
Time taken to read - 2 days
Blurb from Goodreads
"Wicked Wives" is based on the true story of the 1938 Philadelphia murder scandals in which seventeen wives were arrested for murdering their husbands. Mastermind conspirator Giorgio DiSipio, a stunning lothario and local tailor who preys upon disenchanted and unfaithful wives, convinces twelve of them to kill their spouses for insurance money. The murder conspiracy is very successful until one lone assistant D.A., Tom Rossi, uncovers the plot and brings the perpetrators to justice. "Wicked Wives" is a story made for Hollywood, combining murder, corruption, treachery, love, lust and phenomenal detail as it vividly captures Depression-era Philadelphia.
My review
What a tangle of deceit, sex, lies and of course murder. Wicked wives is about a group of women who kill their husbands for reasons ranging from murder, sex, love of another man or a combination of all. The man in the middle of it all is Giorgio DiSipio, catering to the neglected wives needs and getting them to do his bidding.
The book goes between the guilty parties movements before the murders and the time leading up to it and then where the investigation kicks off and all the key players involved in it. The chapters are fairly short so it is easy to dip in and out of the book or get through a fair chunk in one sitting.
The language is a lot more modern and crass than I would expect for that era but it only helps paint the crude picture of the depravity going on. Fairly easy to read and it keeps your interest going with a good twist at the end - I think this would make a great movie, 3/5 for me.
Thanks to the author for giving me the opportunity to try his work.
Blurb from Goodreads
"Wicked Wives" is based on the true story of the 1938 Philadelphia murder scandals in which seventeen wives were arrested for murdering their husbands. Mastermind conspirator Giorgio DiSipio, a stunning lothario and local tailor who preys upon disenchanted and unfaithful wives, convinces twelve of them to kill their spouses for insurance money. The murder conspiracy is very successful until one lone assistant D.A., Tom Rossi, uncovers the plot and brings the perpetrators to justice. "Wicked Wives" is a story made for Hollywood, combining murder, corruption, treachery, love, lust and phenomenal detail as it vividly captures Depression-era Philadelphia.
My review
What a tangle of deceit, sex, lies and of course murder. Wicked wives is about a group of women who kill their husbands for reasons ranging from murder, sex, love of another man or a combination of all. The man in the middle of it all is Giorgio DiSipio, catering to the neglected wives needs and getting them to do his bidding.
The book goes between the guilty parties movements before the murders and the time leading up to it and then where the investigation kicks off and all the key players involved in it. The chapters are fairly short so it is easy to dip in and out of the book or get through a fair chunk in one sitting.
The language is a lot more modern and crass than I would expect for that era but it only helps paint the crude picture of the depravity going on. Fairly easy to read and it keeps your interest going with a good twist at the end - I think this would make a great movie, 3/5 for me.
Thanks to the author for giving me the opportunity to try his work.
January 11, 2014
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I rated it 4 out of 5 stars.
Reviewed for For Whom The Books Toll
4 of 5 stars
Blurb:
"Wicked Wives" is based on the true story of the 1938 Philadelphia murder scandals in which seventeen wives were arrested for murdering their husbands. Mastermind conspirator Giorgio DiSipio, a stunning lothario and local tailor who preys upon disenchanted and unfaithful wives, convinces twelve of them to kill their spouses for insurance money. The murder conspiracy is very successful until one lone assistant D.A., Tom Rossi, uncovers the plot and brings the perpetrators to justice. "Wicked Wives" is a story made for Hollywood, combining murder, corruption, treachery, love, lust and phenomenal detail as it vividly captures Depression-era Philadelphia.
My review:
The Wicked Wives is the first book I've read that was based on a true story. When Gus Pelagatti asked me if I'd be interested in reviewing his book, I wasn't sure. When Mr. Pelagatti told me a little bit about it and I was intrigued.
The entire scheme of murder for insurance money was carefully thought out and executed almost flawlessly. The characters were definitely colorful and full of surprises. I wasn't familiar with this story from 1938 Philadelphia, so I never knew what was going to happen next. The deeper I got into the story, the harder it was to put down. Although there were a couple of times I got a little lost about who was doing what to whom. While reading The Wicked Wives, I could tell Mr. Pelagatti had done extensive research and I did enjoy his writing style. I was totally surprised at who the real ringleader of the Wicked Wives was.
Reviewed for For Whom The Books Toll
4 of 5 stars
Blurb:
"Wicked Wives" is based on the true story of the 1938 Philadelphia murder scandals in which seventeen wives were arrested for murdering their husbands. Mastermind conspirator Giorgio DiSipio, a stunning lothario and local tailor who preys upon disenchanted and unfaithful wives, convinces twelve of them to kill their spouses for insurance money. The murder conspiracy is very successful until one lone assistant D.A., Tom Rossi, uncovers the plot and brings the perpetrators to justice. "Wicked Wives" is a story made for Hollywood, combining murder, corruption, treachery, love, lust and phenomenal detail as it vividly captures Depression-era Philadelphia.
My review:
The Wicked Wives is the first book I've read that was based on a true story. When Gus Pelagatti asked me if I'd be interested in reviewing his book, I wasn't sure. When Mr. Pelagatti told me a little bit about it and I was intrigued.
The entire scheme of murder for insurance money was carefully thought out and executed almost flawlessly. The characters were definitely colorful and full of surprises. I wasn't familiar with this story from 1938 Philadelphia, so I never knew what was going to happen next. The deeper I got into the story, the harder it was to put down. Although there were a couple of times I got a little lost about who was doing what to whom. While reading The Wicked Wives, I could tell Mr. Pelagatti had done extensive research and I did enjoy his writing style. I was totally surprised at who the real ringleader of the Wicked Wives was.
February 13, 2012
True life crimes - it couldn't get better. From the first page I was drawn in, and my biggest intrigue was that this happened so close to where I actually live. Set in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, society wives were creating a new meaning to infidelity. Giorgio DiSipio was a ladies man, bedding all the woman unhappy in their marriage. When it came about that they could take out a life insurance policy and reap the benefits upon the death of their unsuspecting husbands, Giorgio wasted no time getting his piece of the pie.
Each woman thought they could change his ways, making him true to one, and one only. Giorgio loved the game and played it well, and none of the ladies get their hearts desire.
Tom Rossi was up for the next District Attorney, and when Lillian offs her husband with poison, her mother-in-law knows there is funny business. Rossi, being very knowledgeable in the symptoms of poison and the diseases they can portray, he has no choice but to go with his gut and investigate. Forcing the issue just may cause him his promotion when Lillian turns out to be the Deputy Mayor's niece. The deeper he digs though, and with more deaths falling under "Pneumonia", he can't let it go with a clear conscience.
Adultery, sex and conspiracy, this title played out like a movie. I could see it all so vividly and Pelagatti did a fantastic job pulling you in and keeping you in until you found out how it all ended. Being a trial lawyer in real life, he was able to paint the picture perfectly. I would highly recommend this book to anyone that loves true crime, murder, and corruption all tangled into one great read.
Each woman thought they could change his ways, making him true to one, and one only. Giorgio loved the game and played it well, and none of the ladies get their hearts desire.
Tom Rossi was up for the next District Attorney, and when Lillian offs her husband with poison, her mother-in-law knows there is funny business. Rossi, being very knowledgeable in the symptoms of poison and the diseases they can portray, he has no choice but to go with his gut and investigate. Forcing the issue just may cause him his promotion when Lillian turns out to be the Deputy Mayor's niece. The deeper he digs though, and with more deaths falling under "Pneumonia", he can't let it go with a clear conscience.
Adultery, sex and conspiracy, this title played out like a movie. I could see it all so vividly and Pelagatti did a fantastic job pulling you in and keeping you in until you found out how it all ended. Being a trial lawyer in real life, he was able to paint the picture perfectly. I would highly recommend this book to anyone that loves true crime, murder, and corruption all tangled into one great read.
December 14, 2012
From my blog
Suspense thriller meets historical fiction creating a great crime novel. This had it all, love, sex, money, betrayal, crime, court scenes and some great charming, manipulative characters.
The author Gus was eight when he was hearing everyone around him talking about the wicked wives case. This was his inspiration to write this 1937 noir true crime story from the neighbourhood of the city of Philadelphia. Women falling for the same gigolo and then poisoning their husbands for insurance money. They all thought a great plan until they realised they were competing for the same man. It made me think what was keeping their mouths shut or from killing Giorgio themselves.
Rossi the Detective in charge is also running for District Attorney and is doing his best to keep upstanding morals but coming up against the worst scenarios, will he succeed or give in for his career. He lived by this saying, also a great quote in the book "Take love away from life...and you take away life's pleasures."
The suspense in this novel was thrilling, an edge of your seat couldn't wait for the next page, next chapter kind of book. The court proceedings were nicely done and down right hilarious.
I love how it all came together and the mystery on who was behind everything, well done, you will enjoy this read, very entertaining.
A favourite quote, giving feel of book...........
The courtroom had an overflow crowd and everyone was sitting on the edges of their seats, waiting to hear the details of the case, waiting to be shocked, appalled, and delighted by the sordidness of it all.
Suspense thriller meets historical fiction creating a great crime novel. This had it all, love, sex, money, betrayal, crime, court scenes and some great charming, manipulative characters.
The author Gus was eight when he was hearing everyone around him talking about the wicked wives case. This was his inspiration to write this 1937 noir true crime story from the neighbourhood of the city of Philadelphia. Women falling for the same gigolo and then poisoning their husbands for insurance money. They all thought a great plan until they realised they were competing for the same man. It made me think what was keeping their mouths shut or from killing Giorgio themselves.
Rossi the Detective in charge is also running for District Attorney and is doing his best to keep upstanding morals but coming up against the worst scenarios, will he succeed or give in for his career. He lived by this saying, also a great quote in the book "Take love away from life...and you take away life's pleasures."
The suspense in this novel was thrilling, an edge of your seat couldn't wait for the next page, next chapter kind of book. The court proceedings were nicely done and down right hilarious.
I love how it all came together and the mystery on who was behind everything, well done, you will enjoy this read, very entertaining.
A favourite quote, giving feel of book...........
The courtroom had an overflow crowd and everyone was sitting on the edges of their seats, waiting to hear the details of the case, waiting to be shocked, appalled, and delighted by the sordidness of it all.
November 9, 2012
The Wicked Wives starts out wonderfully and doesn’t let go until the very end. Most of the time I was left curious about these wives and to a point sympathetic which shows the great writing of Gus Pelagatti! But never are you unaware of how dastardly these women really are.
The four women in this book, Lillian, Eva, Joanna and Sadie all have one thing in common, listening to Giorgio DiSipio. All have complicated situations for sure and there are so many twists and turns as these cases go through the court. At some points I was pulling for the women but the fact of the matter is, these ladies and some of the men are corrupt. They decided to do things that should never be ok to get out from underneath their husbands and for the money. Thinking back to the times and how hard it was to live then maybe the money helped their conscience ease a bit.
Now normally I would have to say, crime solving is definitely not my thing. I was a fan of Nancy Drew way back in the day but other than CSI, I typically do not read crime or mysteries but this one really got me. It’s interesting, the characters seem so real and since this is based on the true story of wives offing their husbands for insurance money, it is real at least in part. The ending was my absolutely favorite. I love endings that I don’t see coming and this I didn’t see from a mile off.
If you like crime stories I would say give this a try, even if you don’t, this is a wickedly fun book! Very well written!
*Thank you to Gus Pelagatti for allowing me to review his book in return for an honest review.*
The four women in this book, Lillian, Eva, Joanna and Sadie all have one thing in common, listening to Giorgio DiSipio. All have complicated situations for sure and there are so many twists and turns as these cases go through the court. At some points I was pulling for the women but the fact of the matter is, these ladies and some of the men are corrupt. They decided to do things that should never be ok to get out from underneath their husbands and for the money. Thinking back to the times and how hard it was to live then maybe the money helped their conscience ease a bit.
Now normally I would have to say, crime solving is definitely not my thing. I was a fan of Nancy Drew way back in the day but other than CSI, I typically do not read crime or mysteries but this one really got me. It’s interesting, the characters seem so real and since this is based on the true story of wives offing their husbands for insurance money, it is real at least in part. The ending was my absolutely favorite. I love endings that I don’t see coming and this I didn’t see from a mile off.
If you like crime stories I would say give this a try, even if you don’t, this is a wickedly fun book! Very well written!
*Thank you to Gus Pelagatti for allowing me to review his book in return for an honest review.*
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