Delightfully Engaging Blend of Romance, Suspense, History, and Humor When costume-maker Ellie Moore suddenly finds herself out of a job in the middle of a bleak Chicago winter, she uses her knowledge of theatrical disguise to secure a position as an undercover operative with the Pinkerton Detective Agency. Her assignment: find the culprit behind the theft of silver shipped from the mines near Pickford, Arizona. Disguised as Lavinia Stewart, a middle-aged widow, Ellie begins her investigation. Soon she finds she must also pose as the dazzling young Jessie Monroe, whose vivacious personality encourages people to talk.
Mine owner Steven Pierce is about to lose his business after the theft of several bullion shipments--until hope arrives in the unlikely form of Lavinia Stewart, who offers to invest in Steven's mine. In his wildest dreams, Steven never expected to be rescued by an inquisitive gray-haired widow . . . or to fall head over heels for Lavinia's captivating niece, Jessie. But then the thieves come after both Lavinia and Jessie. Ellie isn't safe no matter which character she plays! Will she be forced to reveal her true identity before the criminals are caught? What will Steven do when he discovers the woman he loves doesn't exist?
My Take:
This is one of those books that comes along only so often. We don't usually see a woman as the hero in a book about the old west. Ellie fills that role with creativity and determination.
In a book about subterfuge and hiding one's identity, it is amazing to see the transformation as Ellie discovers she's been hiding her true identity all along. She has more strength and beauty than she thought possible.
If I had one complaint it's that I wished there had been more time and romance for our leading lady and her true love.
This is a great book though, and I thank the author and publisher for my copy. It did not influence my review.
