The Gilded Heiress
A Novel
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4.9 • 8 Ratings
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- $8.99
Publisher Description
USA TODAY BESTSELLER!
From USA Today bestselling author Joanna Shupe comes a spicy Anastasia story full of secrets and betrayal, set among the glittering streets of New York City's Gilded Age.
In 1880 a baby was stolen from the wealthiest family in America. Though no ransom was ever demanded, the Pendelton family never gave up hope . . . and their reward became the stuff of legend.
After being raised in a children’s asylum, Josie Smith ends up on the streets and quickly learns how to take care of herself. Her singing voice draws crowds on every corner, and she’ll stop at nothing to become famous and travel the world, loved and adored by all. Maybe then she won’t think about the family who gave her away as an infant.
Leo Hardy isn’t afraid to use his charm and wits to make a fast buck, especially with a mother and five siblings to support. When he stumbles upon a beautiful young woman singing on the street, Leo notices her striking resemblance to the infamous missing baby’s mother, Mrs. Thomas Pendelton. The Hardys lost everything thanks to the Pendeltons, and once Leo sees Josie, he seizes the opportunity to settle the score. All he needs to do is pull off the biggest swindle of his career.
As the two are catapulted into Knickerbocker High Society, they grow closer to their goal, as well as to each other. But secrets can only stay hidden for so long. Soon the truth unfolds, and both Josie and Leo must separate what’s real from what’s just gilding.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Shupe (The Duke Gets Even) riffs on Don Bluth's 1997 animated feature Anastasia in this enchanting Gilded Age romance. In 1896, con man Leo Hardy is on the lookout for a scheme to support his mother and five siblings when he spots Josie Smith singing in front of a Boston crowd and notes her resemblance to New York socialite Mrs. Pendelton, whose two-year-old daughter was kidnapped almost 18 years ago. Josie, a wily orphan, is justifiably wary of Leo's offer to manage her singing career since, unbeknownst to her, he plans to collect on the Pendeltons' $100,000 reward by presenting Josie as their long-lost daughter. After he introduces her to famed singer Lotta Crabtree, however, Josie's confidence in him grows and she agrees to his offer. Together, they travel to New York City, mutually agreeing to keep their relationship strictly professional. It's a short-lived promise; soon, their intense chemistry gives way to a scintillating affair. But when Josie and Mrs. Pendelton meet, shocking revelations on all sides may keep the young lovers from their happy ending. Shupe brings the Gilded Age to life, complete with vast wealth disparity and actual historical figures (like Lotta). Affable characters, sizzling romance, and a sparkling setting make this shine.
Customer Reviews
Retelling with spice
If you’re going to write a retelling, do it right and with spice, and that’s what Joanna Shupe did with “The Gilded Heiress!”
I loved Josie Smith’s personality! She had both the personality of people she longed to know and the feistiness she needed to survive on her own. Plus, she’s kind and talented!
Leo Hardy’s profession may be morally gray however it’s his love for his family that keeps him from being a total scoundrel. Although he was initially driven by money and revenge, his determination to right the wrong was admirable. And, his love for Josie’s smart mouth, singing, and his ability to know her needs makes him more swoon-worthy!
I enjoyed the secondary characters too! Leo had his actual family and Josie had her bestie giving wholesome vibes. Then there were those looking out for Josie whom she met while Leo’s scheme was in place giving good, humanity vibes. Then there was the true villain who was enjoyable because he was so slick and seductive, and his comeuppance was magnificient!
The love and hate feels during Josie and Leo’s conflict definitely had me turning pages even faster. Josie had considerably valid mistrust especially when different parts of her life was unveiling at the same time. Leo softened even more and I would have wanted him to grovel and grovel some more, but I couldn’t fault him for knowing Josie was a strong, independent woman and resolute in her decisions. However, the grand gesture and ending was perfect!
I highly recommend this book of hope and dreams coming true!
Thank you to Net Galley, Avon Books, and Harper Voyager US for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.