Historical mystery is a favorite genre of mine, especially
those that are set in NYC or London. This one is set in NYC and concerns the
mysterious death of Charles Montfort, a partner in a successful, international shipping
business. His 17-year old daughter Jo isn’t satisfied with the official conclusion
that her father accidentally shot himself while cleaning his gun. Searching for
answers she encounters Eddie, a handsome news reporter, who not only agrees to
help her but also shows her the gritty realities of life from which she has
always been sheltered, first by her father and then by her doting uncle Philip.
Jo learns things aren’t always as they seem and finds some unlikely friends
along the way, all while trying to maintain the façade of a demure society girl
engaged to a boy from one of the city’s wealthiest families.
Overall, the story is good and the characters are enjoyable.
The romance between Jo and Eddie is cute if not somewhat predictable. The
mystery, however, is obvious from the beginning and Jo remains incredibly naïve
nearly until the end. At almost 500 pages, this book is way too long. I skipped
around for the last 100 pages or so and was still able to follow what was
happening. The conclusion is great though, and absolutely justified sticking
with the story, at least for me.
These Shallow Graves will be released in late October by
Delacorte Press. Thanks to Delacorte and Netgalley for providing this ARC for
review.
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