DECEPTION BY GASLIGHT

In 1888 New York, a society woman’s quest for recognition as a reporter leads her to a case of murder.

Despite their eccentric reputation, Genevieve Stewart’s family is part of Mrs. Astor’s exclusive Four Hundred. After having been jilted at the last moment, Genevieve works as a reporter, though she’s not writing the kind of stories that would seem to suit her talents. A thief known as Robin Hood is robbing the rich and sending letters to the press highlighting their sins. Hot on his trail on the Lower East Side, Genevieve is saved from a dangerous encounter in a sordid alley by an exceedingly handsome man. Spotting her rescuer at a ball a few days later, she learns that he’s wealthy Daniel McCaffrey, whose past is shrouded in mystery. Daniel’s best friend, Rupert Milton, is an impoverished English nobleman who’s about to become engaged to Esmerelda Bradley, the daughter of a wealthy family. Suspecting Daniel of being Robin Hood, Genevieve begins to investigate only to find herself drawn to him. Although he does his best to keep his past a secret, his budding trust in Genevieve allows him to open up to her. When Esmerelda's mother is murdered, Genevieve and Daniel investigate a case that involves dirty politics and a scheme to squeeze the poor. Genevieve’s sleuthing makes her a target for men from both sides of the tracks who will stop at nothing to advance their schemes. Although the daring duo bring murder and dishonesty to light, their own relationship is threatened by misunderstandings.

Gilded Age romance and complex crimes produce welcome surprises in the first of a new series.