The Gilded Heiress - by Joanna Shupe (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

From USA Today bestselling author Joanna Shupe comes a spicy Anastasia story full of secrets and betrayal, set among the glittering streets of New York City's Gilded Age.

In 1880 a baby was stolen from the wealthiest family in America. Though no ransom was ever demanded, the Pendelton family never gave up hope . . . and their reward became the stuff of legend.

After being raised in a children's asylum, Josie Smith ends up on the streets and quickly learns how to take care of herself. Her singing voice draws crowds on every corner, and she'll stop at nothing to become famous and travel the world, loved and adored by all. Maybe then she won't think about the family who gave her away as an infant.

Leo Hardy isn't afraid to use his charm and wits to make a fast buck, especially with a mother and five siblings to support. When he stumbles upon a beautiful young woman singing on the street, Leo notices her striking resemblance to the infamous missing baby's mother, Mrs. Thomas Pendelton. The Hardys lost everything thanks to the Pendeltons, and once Leo sees Josie, he seizes the opportunity to settle the score. All he needs to do is pull off the biggest swindle of his career.

As the two are catapulted into Knickerbocker High Society, they grow closer to their goal, as well as to each other. But secrets can only stay hidden for so long. Soon the truth unfolds, and both Josie and Leo must separate what's real from what's just gilding.

Review Quotes

"Historical romance fans will be thrilled to see another book by the queen of steamy Gilded Age stories." -- Library Journal

"Shupe's newest Gilded Age romance builds on the framework of the movie Anastasia, which is a good match for the extreme inequality of the era... Her writing is as saucy and spicy as ever, and combined with some thoughtful consideration of class and wealth in the era, Shupe's fans will find much to enjoy. An appealing historical romance with enchanting touches." -- Kirkus Reviews

"Joanna Shupe vividly evokes 1890s New York, from glamorous restaurants to a Bowery boxing hall to the original Madison Square Garden." -- New York Times Book Review on The Rogue of Fifth Avenue

"Swoon! With The Rogue of Fifth Avenue, Shupe continues to build on the sterling legacy she's building for herself as a gifted weaver of glittering Gilded Age tales (complete with lots of nod to real historical figures), while also deepening the contemporary resonance of her themes." -- Entertainment Weekly