The Gilded Grave by Shelley Freydont

The Gilded Grave by Shelley Freydont ISBN-13: 9780425275849 Trade Paperback: 416 pages Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime Released: August 4, 2015

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
In 1895, at the height of the Gilded Age, Newport, Rhode Island, is the summer home of the social elite. During her first Newport season, Deanna Randolph attends a ball given in honor of Lord David Manchester, a Barbadian sugar magnate, and his sister, Madeline. But on the nearby cliffs, a young maid lies dead, her neck broken—and a member of one of the town’s most prestigious families was seen talking privately with her shortly before her death.

Joseph Ballard humiliated Deanna when he refused the engagement their parents' proposed. Joe may be a cad, but he was her childhood friend and Deanna doesn’t believe he’s a killer. The two must navigate a world of glittering parties to discover why their family's sugar agreement with Lord Manchester isn't a sealed deal like they expected and why someone is killing maids at the house where the Manchesters are staying.


My Review:
The Gilded Grave is a historical mystery set in 1895 in Newport, Rhode Island. The historical and setting details brought the scenes to life. It was a clue-based, puzzle mystery. The mystery was complex enough that I could guess some parts and yet not be certain exactly who did what until the end.

The characters were complex and acted in realistic ways, and they really pulled me in. I like how Deanna acted her age and was trying to find her way as an adult while missing the freedoms of her childhood. She was generally sensible and kind, yet her lack of experience still showed.

Joe was a decent character, but I didn't like him as Deanna's apparent future match. He wanted to follow his unconventional dream even if it hurt her reputation, but he didn't support her following her own interests. He still treated her like a troublesome child that needed to be kept from danger. Will would make her a better husband as he respected her and appreciated her contributions to solving the mystery. However, it's pretty clear that match will never happen. Ah, well.

There was no sex. There was occasional bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this engaging and interesting mystery.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


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