Publication Date: Nov 2025
Blurb:
The St. Louis World’s Fair, 1904: A miniature city of palaces and pavilions that becomes a backdrop for romance, betrayal—and murder.
Cousins Grace and Lillie have been best friends since birth, despite Grace’s vastly inferior social status ever since her mother married for love instead of wealth. When Lillie invites Grace to the biggest event of the century—the legendary World’s Fair, also known as “The Ivory City”—Grace hopes her fortunes might be about to change.
But when a member of their party is brutally killed at the fair, and suspicion falls on Lillie’s brother Oliver, Grace must prove Oliver’s innocence before her beloved cousins’ family is ruined forever. Along the way, she’ll discover that the city’s wealthy elite—including Oliver’s handsome but irritable friend Theodore—aren’t quite who they appear to be. And amidst the glitz, glamor, and magic of the Ivory City lurks a danger that just may claim her life.
What To Expect:
Readers can expect a novel for adults full of history, mystery, romance, and a richly atmospheric setting. Set during the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair it is a murder mystery while also being an exploration of class differences and a nuanced look at the complexities of humans.
Content Warnings:
Language: Mild
Sexual Content: Closed Door – Kissing
Violence: Mild – Someone is murdered and people get injured in the pursuit of answers but not a gory story
Substance Use: Mild/Moderate – A family member to the main character has a drug and alcohol addiction. Drug use is mentioned throughout but not described and never glamorized. Casual social drinking.
Prejudices: The fair has racist exhibits demonstrating Filipinos in dehumanizing ways. It is written in a critiquing way, not glamorizing. Discriminations based on class and social standing.
Religious Themes: Mild themes of prayer
Other Topics: A display containing infants in unhealthy situations is discussed
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