These Shallow Graves

What I love about a Jennifer Donnelly book is the historical research she does. This story is set in the late 1800's and tells the tale of a rich socialite who is on the brink of giving in to social norms. Her perfect marriage to a perfectly fine, rich boy is set. Her job will be to be the perfect hostess and wife. But Jo Montfort wants adventure. She wants to be a writer. She wants FREEDOM. When her father is found dead, she meets a cub reporter named Eddie Gallagher and her life takes a turn. She finds her self trying to figure out who killed her father. This takes her to the dark underbelly of NYC. She meets a coroner, a pickpocket and possibly the love of her life. Jo has to decide if she trusts the love she finds with Eddie or is she should pick the easy life with Bram. One huge misunderstanding sets her on a path to realize she has to follow her dreams before she can do anything else. Everything in her world is turned upside down when she finally realizes who is behind all the deaths- including her fathers. The answer shatters her and puts her life in mortal danger. Who comes to her rescue? You'll have to read and see. I am always struck reading this time period with how few rights women have had in the past. I can't imagine not being able to go out on my own, speak my mind or choose my own direction. Jo wants what everyone wants but the lengths she has to go to to have that is more than most could deal with. So to all the Jo's who have paved the way- thanks and happy reading my friends.