I really enjoyed the historical true-crime element that I was expecting. It uses the elements in a way that I wanted and thought the historical elements worked overall. The characters worked with the setting and was hooked from the first page. Sharon Virts has a great writing style and I’m glad I read this.

This is the first novel that has truly made me question the unfolding events and circumstances within the story. Despite feeling irritated by the characters, I found myself unable to put it down.

I would give this story a solid 4 out of 5. It took me by surprise with its profound impact. While I've always favored nonfiction, this narrative has made me appreciate the depth of such literature.

The narrative begins in a somber setting in Baltimore, where one character has passed away, and the others are entangled in their roles connected to the deceased. Each situation gradually reveals more about the characters' personalities. The story takes a dark turn as characters begin to succumb to death, without a clear antagonist in sight. Jane Warton, a former nurse and skilled chemist, who battles delirium, grief, and hysteria due to past traumas, becomes deeply involved. As the deaths of her loved ones mount, she tries to decipher the antagonist. Her grasp on sanity weakens, her fears materialize, and she finds herself isolated in her beliefs. The question arises: Can she even trust her own mind?

The narrative delves into the societal themes of the 1800s, exploring high society and its dark underbelly. It touches upon illicit affairs, financial corruption, and the complexities of human desire.

What sets this story apart is its inspiration from real events in Baltimore. While it contains some sexual content to better portray the character connections, and occasional profanity, it does so without sparking religious controversy. I recommend it to fans of crime and thriller genres. My reading experience with this story was truly enjoyable.

The story is exceptionally well-crafted, devoid of any plot discrepancies that might irk readers. It maintains a smooth flow, gradually unfolding its events to allow readers to fully comprehend the narrative. I noticed no grammatical errors and found the world-building to be immaculate.

While the story is well researched in terms of timeline and events relating to the trial of Elizabeth (Ellen) Wharton, the characters suffer a severe lack of personality. Jane Wharton hears ghosts as a convenient way to address the hysteria and the mental illness, but that only helps me recognise her as a character. The other characters in the story blur into one, so it takes a lot of focus to follow the murder/ historical fiction.
The ending was not surprising, but I was unimpressed. Sure, I know Ellen may or may not be guilty, but the ending, just shoving someone who doesn't show up a lot, is disorientating.
I did not enjoy The Grays of Truth because it just lead me around and around, then just drop me off without saying goodbye.

well-written and researched. Also, this historical setting isn't used often so it's refreshing to read about. I liked how in the end the differences with real life are highlighted. I also liked to see how different society was back then from today. Jane is relatable to. Also, anyone could understand her search for the truth. Would recommend to historical fiction or mystery and thriller readers.

“The Grays of Truth” by Sharon Virts is a gripping historical true-crime novel that delves into murder, deceit, and the hidden secrets of Baltimore’s elite during the Reconstruction era.

Beneath the polished facade of high society, there lies a web of illicit affairs, jilted lovers, financial struggles, and countless motives for murder.

When Jane Gray Wharton’s husband, Ned, dies unexpectedly while visiting his brother’s home, Jane initially accepts the circumstances. However, when both Jane and her daughter fall gravely ill during a subsequent visit to the same house, she begins to suspect foul play.

The Grays of Truth follows Jane’s quest for answers, redemption, and her fight to save the man she loves.The author dissects the polished veneer of high society, revealing a web of illicit affairs, betrayal, and murder.

Sharon Virts weaves a tale of intrigue and suspense against the backdrop of post-Civil War Baltimore.The novel invites readers to explore the dark secrets lurking beneath the glittering facade of the city’s elite.The Grays of Truth delves into the complexities of trust, power, and redemption.

The narrative unfolds like a puzzle, with each revelation adding to the suspense.Sharon Virts masterfully explores the psychological turmoil faced by Jane Gray Wharton.The novel skillfully balances historical context with a gripping mystery.