Rating: 3 out of 5.

This is a wonderful historical mystery centered around the death of Alexander Hamilton after his duel with Aaron Burr. His wife Eliza is grieving and being comforted by her sister Angelica. She then learns that her son is accused of murdering a man that witnessed Hamilton’s duel. Stunned by this news, and determined to clear her son’s name, she is told of another man’s death, apparently by suicide. This man also witnessed Hamilton’s duel. Something’s not right, and Eliza is determined to figure it out. Is there be a plot to kill Hamilton and all the witnesses? If so, why? She must also face the fact that Hamilton left her with a pile of debts and almost no money. This leads her to sell her handmade lace, and get connected with a mysterious group of widow lacemakers who have the inside knowledge of what’s going on with high society.

I loved the historical facts added by the author of 1800s NYC. Every time I read books like this I am ever thankful that I was born when I was. I simply don’t do well with men bossing me about, nor does Eliza. She is intelligent, strong, and determined to figure the plot out, and will not let men, society or fear stop her. Alice is a great character and depicts just how well a strong, smart woman can do without bowing down to the conventions of society.

If you like historical fiction with a mysterious twist and strong female characters, this book is for you. I received a complimentary copy of the book from Kate Rock Book Tours and Crooked Lane Books. All opinions are my own.