I love mystery/crime books and this one, set in the 1920s in New York, had me hooked straightaway and I found myself whizzing through its 400 pages.

Dr Lauren Westlake is the assistant curator of Egyptology for the Metropolitan Museum of Art and we follow her story as two male figures come back into her life. Firstly, her father, who had spent most of her childhood away on expeditions, searching for Egyptian artefacts, arrives, offering her a chance to accompany him on his next trip. Soon after, Detective Joe Caravello, whom she’d known as a teenager, asks for her expert help as New York’s wealthiest patrons are falling victims of art fraud. Together they begin to track down the forger, and, in the process, danger escalates as we learn more about Lauren’s complicated relationships with both men. She eventually uncovers secrets from her past – and present.

The book was well paced and there were enough surprises to make it enjoyable, although it was fairly easy to guess the ending. Jocelyn Green is a Christian author, although there weren’t many references to faith – just a few dotted about, which showed Lauren had some sort of faith. But towards the end that all changed and both Lauren and Joe begin discussing their faith in a much more open way. Because it hadn’t happened previously, I found it quite unbelievable – particularly in Joe. But that was my only quibble in what was a thoroughly engrossing read. I’m pleased to see this is the first of a new series. If you like crime thrillers set in the past, then this is definitely worth a look.

NB This review was posted on the Woman Alive book club Facebook group page yesterday and has had some good engagement.

The Metropolitan Affair by Jocelyn Green is an immersive read! I felt transported to New York City during the dazzle of the roaring 20s. We don’t dive right into an action-packed story with this book. The momentum builds gradually as each clue brings Detective Joe Caravello and Dr. Lauren Westlake closer to uncovering the truth of who is behind the Egyptian forgeries among New York City’s elite. The entangling web of secrets and complex family relationships keeps the pages turning as twists and turns at the conclusion have all the puzzle pieces falling into place. Working together leads to Joe and Lauren rekindling a childhood love they thought was lost. I loved Joe and Lauren as a couple. I loved how supportive they were of each other. Joe respected Lauren as a capable leading woman in her career, yet he was still every bit a protective hero as well as caring and tender-hearted. Their romance was a coming together of equals, being open and honest with one another, and they got a beautiful happy ending. As a lover of history, I enjoyed the rich historical details in this book and gaining a closer look at how the arts and antiquities are handled.

This was a marvelous historical fiction piece that focused on complicated family relationships and second chances.

I loved the romance between Joe and Lauren and was rooting for them from page one. Their second chance story supplied the perfect balance between the mystery and intrigue of the forgery cases happening around them.

I've been to NY before, so I enjoyed the familiar drops here and there. If you're someone who loves exploring new places through literature, then this is the perfect book for you. It wasn't so much of an info dump that I got bored, but the author described it effortlessly.

My heart was torn in pieces over the broken and mended pieces of families throughout the story. It was the perfect blend of bitter and sweet, and I highly recommend it to lovers of 1920s fiction.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was equal parts historical fiction and cozy mystery. I thought the events leading up to the big reveal were exciting, and I loved all the Egyptian history woven in.

I hope this is one in a series. I’d love to read more about Lauren and Joe!

I received an advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

This is an enjoyable mystery set during prohibition. It ran a little long, so the middle seemed to drag. It picked up during the last quarter of the book. I liked the main characters chemistry, and the fact that they were in their thirties. It's nice to see an "older" couple for a change. There is a lot of information about Egyptian artifacts. A LOT! But I enjoyed the museum setting. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy crime novels in an historical setting and second chance romance.
Thank you Netgalley and Bethany House for the review copy.

Wonderful characters and great historical read. This was my first book by this author and I'm excited to read more. I am not a huge fan of historical fiction but this one worked for me! Thank you netgalley for this arc in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Metropolitan Affair
On the Park #1
Jocelyn Green

Dr. Lauren Westlake has worked hard to get where she is - assistant curator of Egyptology for the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Her father's expeditions to Egypt were always taking him away from her, but he has finally offered her the long-promised chance to join him on one. But first, she has an event to plan.

But the sudden interest in Egyptology has resulted in an unexpected but not surprising uptick in forgeries. When Detective Joe Caravello seeks her out, Lauren agrees to help him in any way possible. But getting the answers they seek will bring them into a dangerous game that could cost them dearly.

The Metropolitan Affair is set in 1925, in New York City, during the opulence of the pre-Depression era of Prohibition. Lauren has been part of the upper echelons of society, while Joe came from the working class. A chance meeting during their youth gave them a friendship that had the promise of maybe something more. But years have passed and the chance to renew an old friendship while working together is before them.

This was an intriguing read; I mean, who knew that Egyptmania was a thing, much less one that was so deeply embedded in the bygone eras of American history. The layers of secrets are complex, and to truly get to the answers needed, they will be taken to the edge of danger where one false step could lead to danger. But are they ready for the truth? Get ready for an exciting mix of mystery and romance in Jocelyn Green's newest Historical Romance.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I express my honest opinion, All thoughts are my own.

“I’ve learned many things from Egyptology, not the least of which is the idea that what we do in this life matters in the next. That we should be preparing ourselves for what comes after. Death isn’t the end of life–it’s really the beginning of our eternity” (location 801). Despite being almost abandoned by her father in her growing up years, Lauren shares his passion for Egyptology. While her father worked more on the discovery side of things, she is an expert in curating Egyptian artifacts. She can spot a forgery as she knows so much about the originals. Joe, a policeman, seeks her help as he tries to find a forgery ring.

I think Egypt, the land of pyramids, mummies, and tomb raiders, is one of the most fascinating places. I can’t imagine how the desire for artifacts would have grown after the discovery of King Tut’s tomb which I’m sure lead to the increase in forgery. This book reads a little like an episode of “White Collar.” I enjoyed hearing Lauren work through what was wrong or right in a piece.

I think this book will have a broad appeal for people who enjoy art, mysteries, and Egypt. It made me want to go visit an art museum to look at the Egyptian art displayed there. It was a good read.

Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Thank you, tlcbooktours and netgalley for my copy of this book.

This historical fiction book was also a little bit of a cozy, mystery romance! Read this one if you like a slow burn, sweet romance, with some mystery and suspense.

For me, the story was a little hard to get into at first, but the last 1/4 of the book I flew through. I’m glad I kept reading. The Egyptology was super interesting and I loved the characters.

Intriguing, romantic, and mysterious, this historical fiction is without a doubt a 5⭐ read for me!

1920s New York City.

Detective Joe Caravello, a man on the hunt for forgeries of Egyptian antiquities.

Dr. Lauren Westlake, assistant curator of Egyptian art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art…and the woman Joe fell in love with years ago.

Together, Joe and Lauren must solve the clues that lead to a ring of forgers.

But all is not what it seems…and lies, betrayal and secrets threaten not only their second chance at love but also their lives.

There were so many layers to this story and they were all perfectly weaved together. I loved the focus on relationships, both the sweet romance between Joe and Lauren but also the complex relationships they have with their parents. The historical details were presented in a way that did not make it seem I was sitting in a classroom and it was obvious the author has done her research.

Danger. Suspense. Mystery. Romance. History. The Metropolitan Affair has it all and I could NOT put it down. Absolutely loved it and this is a must-read for any fan of historical fiction.

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

The Metropolitan Affair was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I loved how it combined history, mystery, art, relationships and more. The characters and settings were engaging and the pages turned easily.

About the book:

Lauren Westlake has a deep interest in Egyptology and has secured an excellent position at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The story takes place around the time of the discovery of Tut’s tomb so it was an exciting time to be a curator. Lauren’s father is also an Egyptologist; they have a complex relationship and one that is in need of some repair. It doesn’t help that he might be involved in something unsavory.

Detective Joe Caravello has known Lauren for many years. When he has a case involving Egyptian artifacts, he naturally turns to her for assistance. What they uncover and how they resolve things form the basis for the narrative.

The Roaring Twenties. Forgery. A plot that leaves readers wanting to find out everything. All in all, a fun read.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Bethany House for this title. All opinions are my own.

This book was published in March 2023

THE METROPOLITAN AFFAIR is the first book in the On Central Park series.
Now let me just say, I have read and loved ALL of Jocelyn Greens' books but in this one she's taken it to a new level of writing.
I would classify the book as a historical fiction novel as it takes place in Manhattan, New York City in mid 1920's but with the action and suspense and going on's I would also classify it as a thriller.
Exquisitely researched, I found the book not only fascinating but informative as well.
I have never read about ancient Egyptian art forgery before, and I really learned a lot.
I learned you check for forgery by weight, material used, a scratch test and more, I'm sure.
The book was pretty intensive as a police detective and the assistant curator of Egyptian art at the Metropolitain Museum of Art are trying to figure out who is the head of and its members of the Egyptian forgery ring. These two characters knew each other during childhood but life had taken them their separate ways. Now they are back together working professionally and as these characters try to solve the crime will they see each other on a more personal level as well?
After hardly being around her father growing up Lauren is not close to him, but this is not of her choosing. Her heart was crying out for his companionship, but he was always traveling for his Egyptian work he did. Never being there for her and her mother. She also has a deep interest in Egyptian things as well, first as a way to get close to him but it's a genuine interest now. Now that her father needs her help with some work-related things, she wonders, should she involve herself in it? There was a pretty big twist in the last part of the book that I just didn't see coming, really took me by surprise. I also found it fascinating that many of the characters are based on real life people. Make sure to read the author's notes at the back of the book, very informative.
I highly recommend this book.

Pub Date 14 Mar 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

There has always been something that has fascinated me about Ancient Egypt. The mystical secrets of the lives of the people drew me in from a young age. I love watching documentaries and movies about Egypt. I especially enjoyed the mini-series, Tutankhamun (ITV - 2016). So when the opportunity to read The Metropolitan Affair by Jocelyn Green was presented, I jumped at the opportunity.

Jocelyn Green intricately weaves history and adventure into a story that will sweep you off your feet. Set in 1920s New York, the reader experiences the height of Egyptomania as well as a unique perspective of the beginning years of Prohibition.

Dr. Lauren Westlake and Detective Joe Caravello bring knowledge, life, and joy to their respective fields of expertise despite the sorrows they have both experienced. Between chasing bad guys and rebuilding their friendship, I found myself invested in their lives and decisions.

The author paints such vivid pictures of the locations and settings, I could almost taste the cannoli. If you have an interest in Egyptology and the 1920s, you won't want to miss this adventure. In the meantime, if you need me, I'll be watching Ancient Egypt documentaries.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

𝗦𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲｡ 𝗛𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲｡

During the roaring twenties of New York City, Dr. Lauren Westlake and Detective Joe Caravello are the protagonists of a heartwarming, second-chance romance that takes an unexpected turn as they become embroiled in a quest to uncover a ring of forgers.

Doesn’t even matter that I have little interest in Egyptian art — I really liked this story and learned so much!

Loved that the main characters were a little older and more mature. I’m always drawn to Jocelyn’s multi-layered characters and their complex relationships outside of the love interest. In this book, Lauren deals with a strained relationship with her father which affects every aspect of her life.

Beautiful true love theme woven throughout. I mean, these are the kinds of lines that make me swoon: “He could have stolen kisses or persuaded her to defy her father, but he didn’t. That’s because he loved her, not because he didn’t.”

If you like Christian historical fiction, don’t miss this one! Release day is March 14. Thank you @bethanyhousefiction and @author_jocelyn_green for an advanced copy! All opinions are my own.

.

Boy, oh boy, can Jocelyn Green tell a story! This is the second title I've read by this author, and I am duly impressed yet again.

We meet Lauren, an assistant curator of Egyptian art for The Met, who is certainly ahead of her time in her career for a woman in the 1920s. But make no mistake, she can hold her own. Following a case of a forger among New York's elite, Detective Joe Caravello onboards Lauren (an old childhood friend) to help him discover the truth. What transpires is a winding mystery that had me invested from the beginning.

Ms. Green reigns supreme when it comes to historical fact finding. This story takes place shortly after the discovery of King Tut's tomb, when Egyptian artifacts were all the rage in the US. Without a doubt, the author does her homework with respect to the rich history surrounding this time period and the discoveries made. I learned so much!

I really enjoyed the mystery and intrigue, the tasteful romance, and the historical accuracy. So buckle up for an exciting adventure - you won't want to miss this treasure (pun intended😜)!

Many thanks to partners @bethanyhousefiction , @netgalley , and @author_jocelyn_green for this #gifted review copy! What an enjoyable novel!

For more of my reviews, please check out my blog at www.mamasgottaread.blogspot.com or follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mamasgottaread.

The Metropolitan Affair is a book with romance and mystery. Set in 1920's New York City, it is the story of Joe and Lauren. They met as children but lost touch when their careers took different paths. Lauren is an assistant curator in the Metropolitan Museum and Joe works for the New York City Police. This is the story of a second chance romance and also a mystery of who is making fake Egyptian antiques. Joe and Lauren team up to find who is behind the fakes.

The book is a sweet love story of two people. By working together they may find true love. It is also the story of a daughter with an absent father who is trying to reconcile. These two things make for a compelling story. This is an enjoyable read for any reader.

Thank you to #netgalley, #JocelynGreen and @BethanyHousePublishers.
#TheMetropolitanAffair

A superbly written historical novel about the Gilded Age, Egyptology, and the corruption that was going on in New York City. In the midst of all of this is a couple that met and grew up at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This story looks back at that time as the story starts 1925 when they met up again. Follow Lauren and Joe through loss, love, learning to trust and the passion for all that was Egyptian. This is a wonderful historical novel that I highly recommend. Five stars is not enough. Thank you to the publisher for my requested copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Jocelyn Green does intense research and brings her characters to life in such a way that I feel I'm standing right next to them! The Metropolitan Affair took me on a trip behind the scenes at the Metropolitan Museum in New York and inspired a new appreciation both for the work museum curators do and for the era of Egyptian Pharaohs. The story is full of intrigue, design, deception, and a bit of romantic tension. One of the things I love about Jocelyn's books is that the story itself is the main attraction, the romance is a wonderful secondary treat.

I highly recommend The Metropolitan Affair!

This cozy mystery is set in 1920s New York. Lauren Westlake is an Egyptologist who works at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. She is the daughter of acclaimed archaeologist Lawrence Westlake, who spent most of Lauren's life working on his career and not his relationship with his daughter. But now he's back and wants to get closer by having Lauren join him on a dig in Egypt. Then Lauren is approached by old friend/beau Joe Caravello, a police detective. He suspects a ring of forgers is selling fake Egyptian artifacts. Will Lauren help him?

What a great cozy read! This is the first book in the On Central Park series by Jocelyn Green. The descriptions of 1920s New York, especially of Central Park and the Museum, bring the city and that time period to life. The author's research into Egyptology was extremely thorough, as the main character's knowledge of the subject is extensive. The reader learns so much about Egyptian artifacts and how to tell a fake. Lauren's struggles in her relationship with her father are heartbreaking and real. Her relationship with Joe is a refreshing break from the constant disappointment she suffers at the hands of her father. The mystery is complex and includes plenty of red herrings.

This is great historical fiction with engaging, interesting characters and a lesson in Egyptology. I highly recommend this novel to cozy mystery lovers and those interested in Egyptian artifacts. The Christian messages include faith and forgiveness.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.

Jocelyn Green does a wonderful job inviting the reader into the world of Egyptology through her protagonist, Lauren Westlake, in "The Metropolitan Affair." Dr. Lauren Westlake has worked hard earning her degree in Egyptology and obtaining a job at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. However, her one desire is to have a relationship with her father fulfilling her dream of going to Egypt with him. Then, out of the blue, her father offers a chance to join him on an archaeological trip to Egypt. But something holds her back from agreeing to go with him. In the meantime, an old friend, Joe Caravello, now a detective, seeks her out for help in solving art forger case, in particular, Egypt art pieces. Can their combined wits solve who the forger is? And can Lauren find a way to rebuild a relationship with her father? Suspense and mystery abound in this fast paced novel. It was hard to put the book down! I can not wait for the second installment!