BOOK BY: Michelle Shocklee
This dual time novel is an interesting trip to the Tennessee Centennial Exhibition in 1897. Descriptions of the Exhibition Grounds pull the reader into a world of extravagance, where no expense was spared in creating models of world famous attractions. And the renowned hotel, Maxwell House Hotel (famous for their coffee brand), is just as magnificent in its description.
During the exhibition, immigrant women go missing – including Priscilla Nichols’s lady’s maid Gia. Concerned over the fate of these girls, Priscilla is determined to rescue as many as can be found.
In 1961 the Maxwell has lost its grandeur and appeal as a short term hotel option for visitors. There are sixty long-term residents who live there. Audrey is the daughter of the proprietor. When Miss Nichols is found unresponsive in her bed, Audrey begins the long task of packing up the woman’s things. And while she does, she uncovers a mystery involving the Centennial Exhibition and their tenant.
The characters are likeable, especially Luca Morretti the older brother of Gia, and Priscilla’s love interest. There are just as many despicable characters, such as Kenton.
I especially appreciated the reference to the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union, as they were quite active in 1897. The author introduces readers to issues outside of temperance and suffrage the WCTU was quite involved with, such as prostitution and lobbying the government to raise the age of consent from 10 years old to 18.
The connection between the past and present is quite clear, and refreshing to have a character that is presented in both storylines. The mystery surrounds the missing girls from the Exhibition. A fun twist is added to the end which ties up both stories with a neat little bow.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.