a Winter at the White Queen
by Denise Weimer
About the book
In the world of the wealthy, things are never quite as they appear.
Ellie Hastings is tired of playing social gatekeeper—and poor-relation companion—to her Gibson Girl of a cousin. But her aunt insists Ellie lift her nose out of her detective novel long enough to help gauge the eligibility of bachelors during the winter social season at Florida’s Hotel Belleview. She finds plenty that’s mysterious about the suave, aloof Philadelphia inventor, Lewis Thornton. Why does he keep sneaking around the hotel? Does he have a secret sweetheart? And what is his connection to the evasive Mr. Gaspachi, slated to perform at Washington’s Birthday Ball?
Ellie’s comical sleuthing ought to put Lewis out, but the diffident way her family treats her smashes a hole in his normal reserve. When Florence Hastings’s diamond necklace goes missing, Ellie’s keen mind threatens to uncover not only Lewis’s secrets, but give him back hope for love.
My Thoughts
This is an enchanting story from the Gilded Age. (Isn’t the cover absolutely gorgeous?!)
Denise Weimer is a new-to-me author, and I thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity to read her novel.
Ellie Hastings was a delightful heroine. Relatable, fun, & funny, too.
As the ‘poor relation’, her job was to investigate potential beaus for her beautiful cousin Ada.
Ellie meets Lewis, and there is an immediate connection between the two.
Lewis has to do a bit of convincing to bring Ellie around, but…. well, I think I’ll stop now. I don’t want to give all of it away.
This fun story has some unexpected twists and is overall, an enjoyable read.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
All-of-a-kind Mom 