The Keys to Gramercy Park is a dual timeline story by Candace Sue Patterson, and what a story she tells!

The story was utterly intriguing from the start with Andrea Andrews finding post-Civil War counterfeit bills in the wall of her historic apartment building. All her investigative journalist senses kick in and the search is on to solve the mystery behind the hidden bills. A chance encounter with Beau Davidson-Quincy at a restaurant where she's a waitress begins an unlikely alliance that eventually has the pair at odds, even though their attraction is strong. Which poses the question, do what's right to discover the truth at any cost, or allow the potential damage to others influence our decisions?

Andrea's quest will have readers on the edge of their seats as one clue leads to another in trying to solve the mystery that eventually involves the Secret Service. The modern-day timeline was definitely my favorite part of the story as the post-Civil War timeline reveals the mindset of an unsavory character from beginning to end.

The Keys to Gramercy Park had some great quotes, a few of my favorites,
*"His career was a house on fire, and the women he loved had lit the match."
*"Some secrets are so well kept, even the government can't decipher them."
*Let us strive to never be counterfeit in our actions, our service, or our love."

This is the fifth book in the Doors to the Past series I've read, and I've enjoyed them all. I appreciate Barbour making a copy of The Keys to Gramercy Park available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.

I absolutely loved it - this is story telling. I wasn’t sure I would like the premise of the back and forth historical story but I absolutely loved it. I will definitely seek out more stories by this author and will go back and look at the rest of the series.

I just reviewed The Keys to Gramercy Park by Candice Sue Patterson. #TheKeystoGramercyPark #NetGalley

Really perfect historical story. Changes back and forth through the time periods and finally resolves itself in the present generation.

This story has several twists and turns that keeps the story moving along. While this is mostly fiction, there are some interesting historical events that are woven into it. I love learning some history while reading and interesting story.

The opening sentence of this dual-timeline tale provides more than a hint of the twists and turns that lie ahead: "Manhattan, May 1862; Edward Davidson had an odd fascination with pretending he was everyone but himself." Present-day journalist Andrea Andrews stumbles upon a stack of counterfeit bills stashed in her apartment wall, and can't resist the lure of uncovering the story behind them--even if that story jeopardizes the future of the man she never intended to fall head-over-heels-in-love with. As the tale of an 1800s Secret Service Agent moves the reader forward on the trail of the counterfeit bills, Andrea's sleuthing gradually moves the reader back in time, until finally, the plots intertwine.
I had never heard of Gramercy Park, but as I began to read this fascinating story, my curiosity was piqued! Patterson deftly weaves information about this historical landmark into a page-turner with well-developed themes of faith and family.

I received an ARC copy of this book. My review is my own opinion.

Thank you to Net Galley and Barbour Publishing for the chance to read and review this book. The opinions expressed are my own. This book is part of the series Doors to the Past. I have read others in this series, and enjoyed them. This story takes place in Gramercy Park and involves historical journalist Andrea Andrews. The mystery starts when she discovers some counterfeit bills in the wall of her historical apartment. This is the story of how they got there and the story behind them. I liked the background story-it was kind of a Cane and Abel story about two brothers. It is told using a dual timeline. One timeline involves Andrea and the other timeline involves twin brothers, Edward and Franklin. Both stories were good, and the author did a good job of bringing them together. I like reading stories that take place at famous historical places.

Wow, this story had so many twists and turns in it! I was so intrigued!

This is a dual timeline novel, set in New York City. I had never heard of Gramercy Park and I know this story is fictional, but now I am further interested in the history of NYC. I was actually googling things such as "how did New York City's water system get started?". These weren't really things I've ever thought about, but obviously everything has a beginning!

This isn't really a romance book, but it does have romance threads, and I really liked the little bit that was in there. Beau knew exactly what he wanted and that is very attractive (for real and fictional men😉)! Andi had integrity and didn't stop looking for the truth. I did have my reservations about their relationship in the beginning, but that worked itself out in the end.

Now onto the historical timeline. I really really liked this part! Counterfeit money, opium, stolen identity, and asylums?! Sign me up!🤣 I really appreciated that this did not end in the way I thought it was going to. The storyline is honestly a little heartbreaking. I wished the book wouldn't end so I could find out even more. I loved the history woven throughout this book and learning new things about history.

This book was very good and you should grab this up when it is released!

Thankyou to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC copy to read and review! All opinions expressed are my own.

This book is written with what they call a dual timeline. I have read a few books written with this concept so was hoping I would enjoy this one too. I have not read this author and was excited to try one of her books. The story itself was well written and believable. All the loose ends came together and most of the characters were likable. The best part was the descriptions. Sometimes you read a book and the setting is "the city streets", this author was fantastic at describing locations with gripping details. I don't know that I could read this book again, but overall, it was entertaining.

From the squalor of Hell’s Hundred Acres to the brightly lit mansions of Gramercy Park, this tale twists and turns its way through the pages to an ending that will leave readers breathless. Betrayal, duplicity, trust, and love are just some of the themes that weave themselves into “The Keys to Gramercy Park,” the twelfth novel in the Doors to the Past series. Andrea Andrews, an investigative journalist by day and waitress at night, has just come upon a “treasure” hidden in the walls of her apartment. Following the trail of clues, she discovers that nothing is as it seems. What secrets are hidden in Gramercy Park and how do those secrets connect to the counterfeit bills she found in her wall? Will unearthing this story give her the promotion she has always dreamed of or destroy the life of the man she is coming to love? Beau Davidson-Quincy, governor in the making, is entranced by the beautiful Andrea. A chance meeting at the restaurant where she works will change his life forever. Working together to solve the mystery of the counterfeit money will test the bonds of their blossoming relationship. 150 years earlier, Franklin Davidson, a Civil War veteran and amputee is determined to give his new bride the life he thinks she deserves. Away from the horrors of Hell’s Hundred Acres, he takes a job with the newly formed Secret Service to track down counterfeiters. What he does not realize is that one of those trails will lead straight to his twin brother Edward. What follows is the ultimate betrayal that will come to haunt a man and his family generations later. “The Keys to Gramercy Park” was an enthralling novel and will keep readers guessing until the very end! There were moments, that I had a hard time believing what I was reading. The duplicitous nature of one of the characters and his double life astounded me. With that astonishment came many questions, that I wish I could ask the author! The historical detail was a delight to read. Ms. Patterson gave great depth of emotion to each character and was able to weave two seemingly different stories together to create a novel that delves into the consequences of choices made and the redemption that is possible through forgiveness. My thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Fiction for the ARC of this book. I am not required to give a positive review. All opinions within this review are my own.

Candice Sue Patterson's "The Keys to Gramercy Park" is a marvelous addition to the Doors to the Past series. She weaves two intricate stories that converge at the end.

A darker tale, the "past" timeline presents a thought-provoking plot featuring twins Edward and Franklin Davidson, identical in looks yet with completely different personalities. While not an upbeat story, it's incredibly unique and compelling. The "present" timeline is more optimistic in tone. Charming and rich Beau sweetly wins over Andrea, who's not his social "equal". Her banter with her friend Caylee is delightful, as is her relationship with betta Sammy Davis, Jr. and his tank mates. I keep bettas and yes, we name them.

Characters are well-drawn. Cora's strong faith is a wonderful thing. Edward, for better or worse, is a fascinating person. Rich in historical detail, "The Keys to Gramercy Park" offers an illuminating glimpse into New York City, and in particular, Gramercy Park.

Patterson's prose is lovely and evocative. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.

I really enjoyed unique story! It was so interesting .
This is the first book I've read by Author Candice Sue Patterson, and I really look forward to reading more of her stories. I highly recommend this this book to everyone.

BOOK BY: Candice Sue Patterson
What another fantastic dual time story by Candice Sue Patterson!
Andrea Andrews is an investigative journalist trying to find her big break. When she discovers counterfeit money from the 1860s hidden in the wall of her apartment, she sets off on a journey to dig up the past. Beau Davidson-Quincy is on the way to becoming governor of New York, but when a well-hidden family secret comes to light, it could cost him the election and the woman he’s falling in love with.
The historical story takes readers on an educational ride – from the early years of the Secret Service to the underworld of murder, prostitution, and counterfeiting. Identical twin brothers find themselves pitted against each other as both of them have chosen a very different path in life. And as their paths collide, readers will be shocked at the outcome.
This novel has fantastic descriptions – creating a story world where readers experience the sights, smells and sounds of post-civil-war and modern-day New York City. Details from the past are expertly woven through the modern story line creating a seamless story that leaves readers connecting the dots.
At the mid-point of the historical story, when the brother’s paths cross for the last time, I wasn’t sure how I felt about it. It was horrible to think about the repercussions of what was likely to transpire, I didn’t know if I could finish reading it. I persevered (because the author is a fantastic storyteller) and completed the novel. Some readers may struggle with the same issue (though I don’t want to spoil it for other readers) – of assuming another’s identity to the full extent.
I’ve enjoyed The Doors to the Past, and look forward to reading more novels from this series.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Investigative historical journalist Andrea Andrews is tired of waiting tables to make ends meet. If she could find and write the next breakout story, she could secure a promotion with Smithsonian Magazine as their writer-at-large. But not much happens in lower Manhattan out of the ordinary until she discovers post-Civil War counterfeit bills hidden in the wall of her historic district apartment.

Politics have always been Beau Davidson-Quincy’s passion, despite his family’s real estate empire. His clean image and single status make him a target in the media as he prepares to build his campaign for NYC governor. He has nothing to hide until a cute waitress unravels a mystery that could destroy his family’s reputation.

This is a dual time line story, which tbh isn't really my thing but I was intrigued by the title.
I found the historical part of the story quite unbelievable, I couldn't understand why so many people were taken in for so long.
I did enjoy Andi and Beau's story though. If you enjoy dual time line stories, then this is prob for you.

An enjoyable read...
When I started reading this book, I wasn't sure if I liked the plot as well as the dual timeline. The characters are likable - except for Edward. I'd hoped for a different ending since Andrea didn't really deserve a promotion. In reality, the relationship between Andrea and Beau (a NY gubernatorial candidate) would've been big news, but it seemed to me a little boring. The author is new to me, and I will read more of her work.

From the cover alone, you know this is going to be a great read. Some lovely characters and I really enjoyed reading tobsee what woukd happen next.

A terrific story from start to finish!
Tight writing with a few surprise plot twists, a mystery interwoven with bits of real history and a little romance, made this dual timeline tale a captivating read. Beginning in the 1860's during the Civil War, to the modern day, both settings intertwined to bring the story full circle, and was cleverly done using the investigative journalist angle. Good characters, some wrestling with inner conflicts, and ethical dilemmas. A bit of faith added naturally in a part showed a deep concern for another. It was very touching and believable.
Some mature themes and some violence may make this better for young adults and up.
Highly recommend! One of my favorite reads this year. 5 stars!

Such a great dual timeline story by a new to me author! I love dual timeline stories so I have read many of the Doors to the Past series. Since each book in the series is written by a different author with different writing styles, the books in the Doors to the Past series are either a hit or miss for me. Rachel Scott McDaniel and Candice Sue Patterson's contributions to the series are definitely my favorites.

A fascinating tale set during the Civil War with identical twin brothers taking two very different paths in life. The present day story was also very well done.

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

What a lovely book! It’s full of twists and turns and at a certain point you’re wondering how the author is going to write her way out of it. She does this in a way I didn’t see coming, but find extremely satisfying. There is a lot going on, but the reader is easily able to keep up with all the characters and events. I love how the history of Gramercy Park and the start of the Secret Service are beautifully woven into the story. Some, seemingly small, events happen early on, but you don’t connect the dots until much later. Andi and Beau are likable characters. Andi is an investigative journalist for the Smithsonian, what an interesting job! Solid wisdom and life lessons are sprinkled throughout the story. Considering the vast amount of intrigue and detail, I’m very impressed that the writer is able to put together such an outstanding story. Really appreciate the additional author’s note giving more background info on the historical details. I found myself wanting to lose myself in the book again only to realize I had already finished it. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a romance novel with a lot more to it than just the “happily ever after.”

Many thanks to Barbour Publishing, Inc. and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.

"The Keys to Gramercy Park" is both a contemporary romance and a historical that began during the Civil War. The past story was a rather horrifying tale of Edward, a counterfeiter who cared for no one except himself and who wanted the life of his twin brother, Franklin. This was not a happy tale.

The current day romance started out well: Andrea wanted an interesting story to earn a better writing position with Smithsonian Magazine. She found some interesting counterfeit money, and Beau helped her get information she otherwise wouldn't get. When she linked it to Beau's ancestors, she promised she'd never use it to harm his reputation. She liked him and felt he'd be a good governor, but she didn't want to be a politician's wife. And so, perhaps subconsciously, she started sabotaging the relationship by threatening his reputation. I did not like her. In the end, she let him think he'd misjudged her intentions when he really hadn't. This is a case of: she didn't support him. She intended to destroy his dreams while justifying it to herself. Horrible match.

It's unfathomable that Edward managed to pretend to be Frank for even an hour. Strangers could identify that Frank was not Edward, so how come the people who knew him well and should have seen the very obvious differences did not do so?

Also, Andrea's research into the past provided clues as to what happened in the other timeline. However, she couldn't even prove Edward was born (among other things). A respectable magazine would not have printed the guesswork story that she came up with, especially when it would make a powerful family sue them. Beau asked her not to write it, and she intended to anyway. If she was a good enough writer to earn the position she wanted, she'd easily be able to write another good story rather than pin all her hopes on this one. Andrea's desire to write the story was unrealistic as it would never earn her the desired position in reality.

There were no sex scenes or bad language.

THE KEYS TO GRAMERCY PARK by CANDICE SUE PATTERSON is a really interesting and well thought out dual timeline historical romance novel which is full of mystery and suspense and also has a good Christian message running through it.
When investigative journalist, Andrea Andrews, finds counterfeit money hidden in her apartment she is set on a course of action that could alienate her from her illustrious boyfriend, Beau Davidson-Quincy.
In 1862 we come across twin brothers, Edward and Franklin Davidson, and we learn the story behind the old notes, and the secrets of Beau’s heritage. Will Andrea divulge his family secrets in her article for the Smithsonian magazine in order to obtain a promotion, thus ruining his chances in the run for governor of New York?…
I will not tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.
The author has obviously done a great deal of research into the history of the time and has melded together a most interesting story across the timelines. I also like the way she paints her characters’ emotions. It is a most worthwhile and inspirational read and one I highly recomend.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are compltely my own.