The Unsealing

The Avenging Angel Detective Agency Mysteries #1

by Robert Brighton

Named BookLife “Editor’s Pick” - “… Written with grace and power, capturing the moment that electricity lit up the world …”

Love, Lust, and Murder in the Gilded Age …

Buffalo, New York, 1901 … a muscular, young city, Queen of the Lakes … The Electric City … where the money spent to build Newport mansions and Park Avenue townhouses is made, plays host to the world’s greatest fair, the Pan-American Exposition and its 8,000,000 guests. Yet the city is only weeks away from disaster, when a crazed anarchist will assassinate President McKinley.

And less than a mile from the spectacle of the Pan-American, a web of love, lust, and intrigue is forming within the elite enclave of Ashwood. Alicia and Edward Miller may be one of Ashwood’s most envied couples, but inside the walls of their luxurious home, a toxic malice is brewing. When simmering and sultry Alicia falls for dashing Ivy League attorney Arthur Pendle, on whose mysterious income he and his longsuffering wife Cassandra – facing demons of their own – live fast and high, infatuation soon curdles into something sinister and obsessive.

Meanwhile, the beautiful Sarah Payne – who from girlhood has dreamed of becoming a detective – struggles to find fulfillment in a man’s world. Trapped in a loveless marriage to a dissolute dentist -- who has become dangerously dependent on ether and alcohol -- Sarah befriends the unhappy Ed Miller and is drawn into the deadly drama inside the Millers’ disintegrating marriage.

When Edward comes into possession of a trove of explicit letters from Arthur to Alicia – love letters, to be sure, but also a confession of much darker doings – he and Sarah, along with the Pendles, are plunged headlong into a deadly whirlpool of official corruption, graft -- and murder.

Inspired by Buffalo’s true crime ‘murder of the century’, in The Unsealing Robert Brighton recreates a world at once utterly strange and strangely familiar. Pitting detective against detective, husbands against wives, and set against the backdrop of Gilded Age splendor and excess, The Unsealing is a gripping, psychological tale of forbidden pleasures and fathomless pain.

Contains three original interior scratchboard illustrations.

Join Robert Brighton on a journey into the real Gilded Age in an electrifying tale of scandal, love and murder - and the birth of the Avenging Angel Detective Agency. Get your copy today!

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Novels

416 pages, Paperback

First published February 28, 2023

About the author

Robert Brighton, award-winning author of immersive historical fiction, including The Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries, is an authority on the Gilded Age, and a great believer that the Victorian era was anything but stuffy.

In his Avenging Angel Detective Agency Mysteries, Brighton exposes the turbulence of the era - its passions, dreams, and disasters - against a backdrop of careful research on the places, sights, sounds, and smells of the time.

When he is not walking the streets in the footsteps of the Avenging Angels, sniffing out unsolved mysteries, Brighton is an adventurer. He has traveled in more than 50 countries around the world, personally throwing himself into every situation his characters will face - from underground ruins to opium dens - and (so far) living to tell about it.

A graduate of the Sorbonne, Paris, Brighton is an avid student of early 20th Century history and literature, an ardent and relentless investigator, and an admirer of Emily Dickinson and Jim Morrison. He lives in Virginia with his wife and their two cats.

The Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries (read in any order):

- The Unsealing: Love, Lust, and Murder in the Gilded Age (Book One)
- A Murder in Ashwood: Scandals and Secrets in the Gilded Age (Book Two)
- Coming Spring 2024: Current of Darkness: Desire and Deceit in the Gilded Age (Book Three)

Plus, a new standalone novel:

The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City

Reviews

[Deacon Tom (Feeling Better) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is truly a good story of Buffalo in the Gilded Age of the 1900s.

It was fast paced and a fun page-turner. As for the plot, I loved the twists and turns.

The 1900s setting enriched the book. Truly made the historical piece of historical fiction. Great characters are well defined. My favorite character was Arthur Pendle.

A good read that I highly recommend.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Unsealing by Robert Brighton is a riveting story that takes place from the 1880s to the early 1900s, around the earliest part of the twentieth century, in northern New York. It’s a quickly evolving period that involves coal mining, labor unrest, widespread protests, and a significantly different legal system that includes the electric chair. It’s an intense era that centers around an attorney, Arthur R. Pendle, and Terry Penrose, a district attorney. Together, they face a mounting level of criminal activity, corruption, shady practices by wealthy individuals, and many other challenging cases in court.

I found the story to be exciting, quick-paced, intriguing, but not too complex. The characters are unique and well-developed, with strong personalities that I could relate to. The further Terry and Arthur delve into their surroundings and the wealthy, upper-class society, the more they encounter corruption and a stark contrast between various members of society. Despite the dreary state of legal work, the author brings the fascinating world of hidden gambling dens, brothels, and shady building developers into vivid reality.

I really enjoyed the plot development, society, and how the characters’ lives adapt to unexpected changes around the turn of the twentieth century. The narration and dialogue are impressive, realistic, and colorful. It felt like I was present, in the room or scene with the characters, experiencing the intensity and stress of a situation. The author’s ambitious writing style captivated me, and I found the book easy to read and follow.

The Unsealing is a thrilling story that will keep you turning one page after the other from start to finish. I highly recommend this excellent book for the historical legal drama that weaves a bit of film noir into the theme. With a fantastic atmosphere and strong characters, this is a sensational story that fans of thrillers and well-drawn mysteries will surely enjoy.

[Mandy Szewczuk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love seeing the bustling history of Buffalo, and this book was very well-researched when it came to the layout, technology, and history of the city. However, the story and dialogue were predictable, and more living details would have livened up the story. What was breakfast, what did shoes look like, what did the parlor furniture look like? I've got a good handle on where the Kensington is, but a little more food for the imagined pictures in my head would have done a lot.

[Jenifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping novel from the misunderstood Gilded Age of America
There are very few books I’ve read that I continue to turn over in my mind weeks after reading -Robert Brighton’s The Unsealing is at the top. From the first pages, which should provide an accurate aroma for the dish, I was completely drawn into its world, characters, and ill-fated twists of unexpected romance and violence. My notions of 1900s propriety and vices were completely turned on their head. This unique story based on expertly researched true events, is a window into the culture and injustices at the turn of the century in Buffalo. The hardcover book is beautifully illustrated with a few seminal scenes I found well suited to the novel’s tone.

I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed learning more context about the Gilded Age from the author himself at online interviews and his website which offers a curated view of technology, art, and scenes of daily life from that historic time. Counting down until June’s release of the next Avenging Angel Detective Agency book!

[Tony Siciliano · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sensational story filled with great writing, a story line that pulls the reader into a very different world (or maybe NOT so different world), with characters mostly loathsome yet somehow sympathetic. The reader is drawn by the thrill and excitement of the main character's illicit relationship with a married woman. The author then slowly and methodically carries the reader to the ultimate, suffocating atmosphere of despair, dread and horror. In the end, each of the characters is deserving of his or her fate. The ideals of love and justice battle against the realities of corruption and betrayal. And yet, whether strong or weak, gallant or vile, the battle is irrelevant, the conclusion is foregone. Each are controlled by a single, amoral force whose only purpose is power and survival.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would give this book 10 stars if I could! My first book by this author. Story takes place in and around Buffalo, NY at time of the Pan American Expo in 1901. Mr. Brighton can certainly weave a tale. There is " political corruption, financial deceit, drugs, infidelity and murder." As the author states, the Victorian era was anything but stuffy. This book was quite a ride and had me up late 2 nights in a row, I could not put it down. (And for a local, who could disagree with his passion for Paula's Donuts and ted's Hot Dogs!!!)

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finally finished! I would say 3.5 stars. Took me longer to read for some reason I can’t put my finger on, but I’m glad I finished it. The story wrapped well, even though took quite a bit to get there.

[Celine · Rating 5 out of 5]

With a deft hand, author Robert Brighton whisks readers away to Buffalo, NY’s early 1900s, painting a vivid tale of time and place through his masterful use of descriptive imagery. His words not only conjure the setting but also envelop you in the city's unique scents and atmosphere, immersing you in a bygone era. Brighton's writing prowess, with its ability to craft intricate details, is nothing short of commendable. His prose doesn't merely narrate a story; it awakens powerful emotions, making this book an enchanting read for aficionados of historical fiction. The narrative unfolds with relentless tension, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and turning pages late into the night. With its rich historical backdrop, complex characters, and a plot filled with forbidden pleasures and profound pain, The Unsealing is an enthralling tale that leaves an indelible mark on the reader's imagination.
The Unsealing is a compelling story that seamlessly melds thorough research with superb storytelling. Robert Brighton's work not only entertains but also educates, offering an absorbing glimpse into a bygone historical era. This book is an absolute must-read, and I cannot recommend it highly enough for those seeking an engrossing and immersive reading experience. If this genre piques your interest, I urge you to dive into its pages!

[Karen Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Unsealing is a well written story that takes place in the early 1900’s, and follows the tangled up relationships of several people, each with their own strengths and faults. The start of the story was certainly intriguing. The characters are realistic, and the dialogue isn’t forced. I did feel the pace was a little slow at times and, but is well worth reading. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Philos Delights · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Thrilling Ride Through Power, Desperation, and Fatal Discontent

The Unsealing takes readers on an enthralling journey as we delve into the lives of the elite couple Alicia and Edward Miller of Ashwood, their world fraught with a tangled web of deceit and betrayal. Alicia's desires fixate on the charismatic lawyer Arthur Pendle, a beguiling enigma who proves both exhilarating and perilous. Meanwhile, Edward seeks solace in the radiant Sarah Payne. The intricate dance of emotions plays out against this backdrop, and readers can't help but wonder if attraction and desperation will ignite between Sarah and Edward. The narrative pulses with the raw essence of human emotions, infusing these rapid developments with an intensity that keeps readers fervently engaged. Moreover, unexpected plot twists pepper the story, adding an extra layer of suspense and intrigue that further enhances the reading experience.

Brighton masterfully interlaces the threads of love, lust, and murder, creating a narrative that immerses readers in a richly detailed historical setting. The book deftly explores the complexities of human relationships, blending elements of desire and danger into a storyline that continually keeps you guessing. The pivotal question looms large: will these sordid games ultimately culminate in murder? As the story unfolds, it does so against the backdrop of a world poised to celebrate the 1901 Pan-American Exposition—a beacon of human innovation. However, this excitement is overshadowed by the specter of looming disaster. Beneath the veneer of anticipation, simmering scandals and the ominous threat of President McKinley's impending assassination add layers of suspense to the narrative.

If you're drawn to narratives steeped in intrigue and historical depth, this novel promises an exhilarating journey into a bygone era filled with pleasure and pain, freedom and entrapment, loyalty and betrayal, and the ascent and fall of power. Just as the world's captivation comes with risks, this tale reminds us that behind every thrill lies the potential for peril.

[Sachi Ito · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great psychological crime drama

Step back in time to Buffalo in 1901, where this riveting tale unfolds amidst a backdrop of twists and turns that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The story takes an electrifying turn, plunging readers into a world teeming with corruption and scandal—a narrative that had me eagerly anticipating what would happen next. At its core, this story revolves around the lives of the Ashwood elite, individuals grappling with the quest for fulfillment in their marriages, and a society that is grappling with the evolving role of women in a 'man's world.' As the layers of deception peel away, we're confronted with the shocking depths of human corruption. It's a stark reminder that appearances can be profoundly deceiving, especially when it comes to the secrets hidden behind closed doors. The narrative quickly descends into a whirlwind of lust and intrigue.

Robert Brighton has crafted a world where drama reaches such a fever pitch that it's detective versus detective and husbands pitted against wives. It's evident that Brighton has delved deep into history, as his attention to detail shines through in his descriptions. I must admit, I hadn't heard of the Gilded Age before picking up this book, but I can confidently say that I received an education while being thoroughly entertained. In an era marked by rapid expansion, it becomes crystal clear how corruption and greed could have thrived amidst the chaos. I found myself finishing this book much faster than I anticipated because I simply couldn't bear to put it down. The narrative is devoid of any unnecessary fluff, keeping you engaged from start to finish. If you're a fan of mysteries, do yourself a favor and dive into this captivating tale—it's a journey through a bygone era that's both enlightening and utterly engrossing.

[Tara Dodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dive headfirst into a world of enigma and suspense with The Unsealing, a novel that weaves a captivating web of intrigue. With each chapter unraveling a new layer of corruption, this gripping thriller becomes an irresistible page-turner that's impossible to put down.


Author Robert Brighton seamlessly weaves rich historical facts about the Gilded Age in New York into its captivating narrative. As the story unfolds against this fascinating backdrop, it's as if you've stepped into a time machine, transported to an era where you can practically see and feel the vibrancy and opulence that defined the times. The author's vivid prose has an almost magical quality, enticing your imagination to roam freely as it paints a vivid picture of this bygone era. No detail is left unexplored, and every page resonates with authenticity. Amidst the opulent tapestry of the Gilded Age, where seduction and clandestine dealings lurk around every corner, The Unsealing unfolds as a thrilling and dramatic adventure. From the very first page, it casts a spell that keeps you irresistibly hooked, compelling you to turn each page with eager anticipation. This book is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess and his unique ability to transport readers to another time and place, immersing them in a narrative that is as captivating as it is historically rich.

This novel is a fascinating and enthralling tale, brimming with captivating drama that feels strikingly relevant to our own dynamic realities. The author's skillful storytelling ignites the senses, immersing you in an authentic experience that resonates deeply. With an appetite acute for more, I eagerly await the next installment. I recommend The Unsealing to those who relish realistic fantasy narratives enriched by historical mysteries yet bearing a touch of familiarity that makes it all the more enticing.

[Robert Brighton · Rating 5 out of 5]

POSTING REVIEW FROM EXTERNAL SOURCE - REVIEWED BY BERNADETTE LONGU FOR READERS’ FAVORITE

Reviewed by Bernadette Longu for Readers' Favorite

In The Unsealing, Robert Brighton has taken an unusual genre and written a story that catches the reader's attention from the opening overture to the last page of the book. This plot covers intrigue, murder, romance, love lost, ill-gotten gains, blackmail, greed, and guilt. Don't forget reconciliation and forgiveness and any other characteristics that humankind displays. The story takes place in the year 1901 and ends in January 1902 with an array of interesting main and supporting characters.

Robert Brighton has taken the good and the bad characteristics that can be found in human nature and has placed them in several characters. Brighton waltzes these characters with all their flaws throughout the story, making them believable, and more and more the reader cannot believe that these people can do some of the things that happen but they do. Brighton holds the reader's attention to the end, especially with the twist in the tale that I doubt anyone would expect. This is a must-read as it kept me up at night to finish it. Nothing is predictable from the beginning to the conclusion. The Unsealing by Robert Brighton is a book well worth reading. Thank you for a very exciting and interesting read.

[Timothy Grubbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

A scandal in turn of the century Buffalo

The Unsealing: Love, Lust, and Murder in the Gilded Age by Robert Brighton is an interesting historical novel set from 1898 to 1902.

It’s a story about lawyers, factory owners, husbands, wives, and criminals.

There’re affairs, jealously, the Black Hand, a presidential assassination, and a stock market panic…

The main story follows two couples on friendly terms…with the husbands and one of the wives eventually engaging in scintillating affairs with either eachother or other married folks…as it paints a picture of gilded age New York.

Despite the Pan American Exposition being mentioned (a major event in 1901), it’s barely mentioned outside of the events of President McKinley’s assassination attempt.

Instead the story focuses on individual characters that make up the framework of Buffalo society, middle class, and working class as they relate to a lawyer engaged in fraud and criminal collections while also dealing with a wife he no longer loves and a married woman he does…

The title is odd as the long form story builds up to a seemingly double accidental death hinted at in the prologue…and seems to leave out a lot of info I’m not aware of.

Still, for a story about the steamier side of gilded age buffalo and the travails of living in such a world, I thought it was decent.

[Laryssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and am beyond thrilled to start the next in The Avenging Angel Detective Agency Mysteries series.

With exquisite detail and prose that befits the Gilded Age, Robert Brighton skillfully depicts the era -- a period of unprecedented technological innovation, industrial power, materialism and blatant political corruption. A time when my hometown of Buffalo, NY was in its glory, and, where our story takes place.

It’s a tale that, from the jump, you know is not going to bode well for our star-crossed lovers. And yet, the ending still will shock,

It's a really great cast of characters, who all feel authentic to the time and place. That, plus the lust, scandal, and mystery kept me engaged. I only deducted one star because I felt that, while interesting enough, I had to wait 'til about the 70% mark for things to get really exciting and unputdownable. However, I really loved the descriptions of Buffalo, streets and places familiar to me, and history included like the Pan American Exposition -- how sad that such wonders do not still exist!

Def recommend this book to anyone that loves historical fiction and a bit of mystery -- and ESPECIALLY if you're from BLo! :) #GoBills

[Keira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I’m about to despair and conclude that most modern fiction is cookie-cutter, same-old-recycled stories, comes along The Unsealing by Robert Brighton. I read a lot, and I can honestly say this book isn’t like anything else. The story sucks you in, and is compelling and literally almost impossible to put down. The characters are so well-done that even when some of them do horrifying things, you can understand why they do them — and find yourself sympathizing with them. Top to bottom, this book is a stunner. This is a must read! Plus, the book is really top notch - gorgeous front to back, illustrations inside even - a keeper!

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely phenomenal book - the best I’ve read all year! Must read for anyone who appreciates compelling character development, thorough research of the time (this is historical fiction, after all), and a unique perspective. Such a high quality story, and book itself - there are even original illustrations, which add to the appeal. From the first page, this book captivated me and I was engaged throughout the entire book. I found myself imagining myself as various characters, considering their motivations and perspectives, and thoroughly engaged - thank you! I see that there is another book in the series, and I will be reading that right away, and can’t wait!

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unique and interesting.
What a compelling and rather disturbing story. It is written in such detail that it will captivate the reader. There is so much corruption it just reeks with it. There is an easy love hate relationship with some the characters too, but overall the characters are so unique and interesting that it just adds to the story. It is a book that my serious minded historical friends will love. I did receive a free copy of this book from BookSiren and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Akshita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a completely different kind of Historical fiction for me…

The unsealing is a story of love, lust, friendships & betrayal, that ends in too many deaths. Despite a sad ending, the ending was oddly satisfying, each of the characters got the justice they deserved….

A true depiction of how, despite everything one faces, life goes on….

PS: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Victoria Wienke · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amazing tale

This book has a lot of back and forth with two couples having marital problems along with dalliances with other parties. Arthur must be born under a dark star as he has one bad experience after another. Being from Buffalo, I enjoyed the mention of various Buffalo streets and buildings and could only laugh at the ending.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not sure what I just read, but it was hard to put down. Every character in this book was a hot mess and I could see where they were headed. But it was kinda fun and I'll put the next one in the series in my To Read pile. 📚 But not at the top. 3.5 stars for keeping my interest.

[Cathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 rounded to 3.

[Barbara Laramie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a violent smuty sordid book but reality in the Victorian age and even more so today but all the bad actors are government officials!!!!!!!!

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intelligent, twisting read with all I could ask for - historical detail, love, mystery, suspense, and a crime that shouldn’t have been, but was. This is an absolutely terrific book!

[Jean White · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought the Pan Am expo would have featured more prominently. This was an interesting take on a star-crossed lovers tale. I guess I just expected more of Victorian Buffalo to be a true backdrop.

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book. Too too long, monotonous. The characters were all a mess. I did like the descriptions of Buffalo as I’m well acquainted with the “Ashwood” section. It is Elmwood in the real world Buffalo and history of the gilded age fascinated me. Book club 9/2023. This is on my kindle.