What a charming book! If you're a fan of Edith Wharton and Henry James, or if you're interested in Gilded Age New York, this novel will be a lovely light summer read full of references to the two authors and their relationship that will make you smile.

“There’s something uniquely thrilling about a mystery that’s tucked into the everyday. To uncover it, piece by piece, until the whole puzzle is revealed. It’s like seeing the world through a different lens. Every ordinary moment becomes something extraordinary.”

I love a good mystery, and this one did not disappoint. The way the tension builds and the clues unfold? *Chef’s kiss*.

Synopsis: Girl gets invited to a dinner party at a stately mansion, and soon finds herself tangled in a web of secrets, lies, and... murder?

Review: This story is full of twists, but it’s also full of heart. The main character, Jane, is someone you can’t help but root for. She’s smart, determined, and, she gets caught up in this mystery in a way that feels completely natural - nothing feels forced. I loved watching her piece everything together and grapple with the personal stakes that come with uncovering the truth. It was everything. 😭🫶🏼 Sometimes the smallest detail can make the biggest difference, and Fredericks nails this with such finesse. The twists and turns are enough to make you sit on the edge of your seat.

The side characters were another win for me. They each brought their own flavor to the story. I’m all about that tension between the characters—the push and pull of suspicion, trust, and hidden motives. It’s the perfect kind of setup to keep you questioning everything.

And the mystery itself? Oh, it’s so good. I won’t spoil anything, but the way it unravels is like peeling back layers of an onion—you think you know what's coming, and then, boom, another layer. Absolutely thrilling.

🎧 I listened to this one as well. The narration was *immaculate*. The voice actors captured the suspense and the underlying tension so perfectly. Honestly, if you’re debating between reading or listening, go for the audiobook. It adds so much to the experience.

Audiobook length: 10 hours
Narrators: Emily Ellet & Brian O’Neill

🔥 Spice: Very mild. This book isn’t about romance or spice; it’s about the mystery, the intrigue, and the secrets that lurk beneath the surface.

Read if you enjoy:
🔍 slow-burn mysteries
🕵️‍♀️ complex, layered characters
👀 unexpected twists and reveals
💼 high-society settings with dark secrets
🎧 excellent audiobook narration

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, & Minotaur Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

A witty and well-paced historical mystery centered around Edith Wharton (the author of The Age of Innocence and The House of Mirth) investigating the death of a fellow author in Gilded Age New York City just before his new book was to be published. Edith's voice is unique and punchy, and the narration leaned into that, making for a super entertaining listening experience. The story felt complete and well-researched, and it moved along quickly but didn't feel rushed. Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for my gifted copy -- I really enjoyed it!

I didn't jive with this, I just didn't feel connected to the story. I also feel like the main character didn't care much about the mystery and murder and therefore neither did I.

This book is a short read with an enjoyable mystery! I did struggle with connecting to the characters and I did find the book to be slow compared to how short it is Overall though a solid historical mystery! Definitely recommend giving this one a try!

There is a fine line between historical fiction and historical. This falls in the latter. I was excited by the theme, but found it really difficult to get into the story because I expected some compelling fictional dialogue to propel the story.

Inspired by a true story, The Wharton Plot follows Edith Wharton through the fading years of the Gilded Age in a city she once loved so well, telling a taut tale of fame, love, and murder, as she becomes obsessed with solving a crime.

Thank you St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for sending me a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I read 147 pages of this book and decided to DNF it. I wanted to read this book because it sounded interesting to me but it wasn’t keeping my attention and I didn’t like the main character.

I really liked this historical cozy. I have been a fan of Edith Wharton and I was familiar with historical background in this mystery. While having lunch Edith meets a fellow writer, David Graham Phillips. When he is gunned down outside his club on the streets of New York she sets out to solve the murder. I really enjoyed the Gilded Age New York City background and the characters, real and historical. The author does a very good job of weaving historical and fictional events. The mystery was good with plenty of suspects. The book was well written and a enjoyable read.

The Wharton Plot by Mariah Fredericks is a fascinating work of fiction. Based on the real life of ground breaking author Edith Wharton, this book looks into her life, social circle, literary work, and deteriorating marriage. This book is really interesting because it is a look into the complicated life of this author. Fans of Edith Wharton will be interested in this look into Edith’s world. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

A wonderful read. Definitely felt the setting and the sense of Ms. Wharton‘s character throughout the book. Loved that she took an actual historical event and developed a wonderful mystery around it. Great job balancing Ms. Wharton’s personal life and issues with her murder investigation.

Historical Fiction meets Murder Mystery in this inspired by a true story tale revolving around the Gilded Age of NYC and renowned author Edith Wharton. Unfortunately the suspense factor wasn't suspenseful enough and Edith Wharton came across as far too passive for someone trying to solve a murder. This was mediocre at best.

Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the ARC.

## A Gripping Gilded Age Murder Mystery with a Literary Twist: A Review of "The Wharton Plot" by Mariah Fredericks

Mariah Fredericks' "The Wharton Plot" is a captivating historical mystery that throws the spotlight on the legendary Edith Wharton. Set against the fading grandeur of New York's Gilded Age, the novel follows Wharton at a crossroads in her life, yearning to escape a loveless marriage and seeking inspiration for her writing. Enter the shocking murder of fellow author David Graham Phillips, an event that throws Wharton's carefully laid plans into disarray.

Intrigued by the whispers of a conspiracy and spurred on by Phillips's spirited sister, Wharton dives headfirst into the investigation. Fredericks masterfully brings Wharton to life, capturing her sharp wit, keen observations of society, and burgeoning detective skills. The novel delves into the hidden corners of the Gilded Age, exposing the web of secrets and scandals that the wealthy tried so desperately to conceal.

"The Wharton Plot" is more than just a murder mystery; it's a love letter to literature and the power of storytelling. Fredericks seamlessly weaves Wharton's real-life experiences into the narrative, creating a fictional world that feels both opulent and dangerous. The suspense builds steadily, keeping you guessing until the very last page.

Here are some of the novel's highlights:

* **A unique protagonist:** Edith Wharton is a complex and fascinating character, a refreshing change from the typical historical mystery detective.
* **Vivid setting:** The Gilded Age is brought to life in all its glittering glory and dark underbelly.
* **Intriguing plot:** The murder mystery is well-crafted, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you hooked.
* **Love of literature:** The novel celebrates the power of the written word and the enduring legacy of great authors.

If you're looking for a historical mystery with a strong female lead, a touch of literary intrigue, and a captivating glimpse into the Gilded Age, then "The Wharton Plot" is a must-read.

**Highly recommend for fans of historical mysteries, literary fiction, and strong female characters.**

I love historical mysteries. THE WHARTON PLOT is set in 1911 NYC and features Edith Wharton, famed novelist. Edith has come to a crossroads in her later years, with both her marriage and publisher. She can feel some changes on the horizon. Before she can do anything too drastic, she meets fellow writer David Graham Phillips, who has published books on controversial topics regarding women and society. David is shot to death in broad daylight on the streets of New York. Edith is witness to the killing and when David's sister comes to her for help, she decides to look into the murder herself. It was so interesting finding out that this book was based on a true story.

I was aware of Edith Wharton but wasn't very knowledgeable about her private life. I was expecting the murder mystery to be a bigger part of the plot but it was an entertaining read regardless. I'd recommend to anyone who enjoys Gilded Age fiction or books based on true people and stories.

Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for providing me a digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Did you guys know that Edith Wharton helped solve a murder back in her day? I didn’t! This book follows that historically accurate story while throwing in the author’s own dialogue and small plot details.

While this story is quite interesting, I do believe that I liked Frederick’s novel The Lindbergh Nanny a smidge more. I enjoy a good historical fiction and this one delivers, but there were a couple of slow spots for me. Overall, a solid read though and I enjoyed it!

I love my historical mystery heroines a little ornery and Edith fit perfectly in that mode. Although I'd read Wharton, I knew very little about her personal life so this was a nice opportunity to learn more.

I really like this one! I've read Wharton's novels but knew very little about her personal life. Prior knowledge was absolutely not necessary - there was just enough detail to remind you that she was in fact THAT Edith Wharton but otherwise it read like a fun historical mystery novel.

In this emotionally charged novel, New York Times bestselling author Tracey Garvis Graves takes readers on a transformative journey where two lost souls find unexpected courage to love again.

The year is 1911, and New York City pulses with energy and secrets. Edith Wharton, bone-tired of Manhattan, stands at a crossroads. Her marriage and her writing career hang in the balance. When dashing novelist David Graham Phillips is shot to death outside the Princeton Club, Edith’s life takes an unexpected turn.

Edith met Phillips only once, sharing mutual distaste over tea. Phillips’s sister believes he was killed to prevent the publication of his next book—a tome promising to expose hidden secrets. Curious and intrigued, Edith dives into the mystery. What kind of book could drive someone to murder?

Inspired by a true story, “The Wharton Plot” follows Edith Wharton’s relentless pursuit of truth. As the Gilded Age fades, Edith becomes obsessed with solving the crime, navigating fame, love, and danger.

Fredericks weaves a taut tale, capturing the essence of an era. Edith’s resilience and determination shine through, making her a compelling protagonist. The novel immerses readers in a world where literary intrigue collides with deadly secrets.

In summary, “The Wharton Plot” is a captivating blend of historical fiction and mystery. Fredericks skillfully resurrects Edith Wharton, inviting us to walk alongside her as she unravels a web of deception. A must-read for fans of literary intrigue!

I could not get into this book. It dragged at times. The main character wasn’t likable, which made it hard for the reader to root for her.

The Wharton Plot by Mariah Fredericks
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Edith Wharton is a writer in 1911 New York. After having a bit of a ruffled meeting with a fellow author named David Graham Phillips, he is murdered in the street the next day. Edith falls into attempting to piece together David’s murder, which seems fo revolve around his book he just finished.
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What I liked:
-I loved the mystery. A murdered writer, his last novel, threatening letters, all of these sucked me into this story.
-I liked that our heroine was a mature woman. Edith was not a little 20-something amazingly solving a murder. She was a mature woman who really thought about motives and asked questions and wasn’t afraid to consult with others to get a different view.
-The ending surprised me!
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4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Wharton Plot is a historical mystery set in the late Gilded Age, as renowned novelist Edith Wharton tracks down a killer. This was a beautifully written novel, amde even better by being based on a true story. The author even did a great job tying in some of Edith's publications into the story, which now makes me want to go read those when I have time! This book did an excellent job of showcasing the time period, as well as Edith herself. It almost perfectly balanced the mystery aspect as well with the counter of Edith's personal problems. I truly enjoyed every aspect of this one.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all views expressed are my own.