Grossman, Felicia

This novel will appeal to readers seeking a steamy historical romance about reputation and representation, with a fresh fairy-tale twist. Recommended for fans of Charis Michaels and Eva Leigh.

Much like the author’s debut novel, Appetites and Vices, this romance does not shy away from the prejudices and hurdles Amalia, a Jewish American citizen, and David, a Russian Jewish immigrant, face in 1870s America, making this an important addition to the historical romance canon. Fans of Joanna Shupe’s Gilded Age “Four Hundred” series will fall in love with the flawed Amalia, who bravely takes charge of her own life. Highly recommended.

Debut author Grossman doesn't shy away from tough topics—detailing anti-Semitic prejudices of Early American high society as well as drug addiction without overshadowing the romance and humor at the center of the relationship between Ursula and Jay; their chemistry is undeniable. This page-turner is highly recommended for all romance aficionados.