What is justice and can it only be accomplished through the rule of law? City of Secrets, the second book of Victoria Thompson’s newest historical fiction series, A Counterfeit Lady, explores this concept when a widow discovers she’s unexpectedly penniless.

Elizabeth Miles, an ex-grifter, is attempting to live a reformed life in anticipation of becoming Gideon Bates’ fiance. The Bates are a socialite family of old money in early 1900s New York City. Gideon’s mother is attempting to introduce Elizabeth to all the women she should know. However, both Mrs. Bates and Elizabeth are suffragettes. So when one of their own is widowed and in need of justice, they step in to help.

Gideon is an honest-to-a-fault lawyer. While he also wants to help the widow and her young children, he refuses to tell any lies to find justice for them. As a con-artist, lying is one of Elizabeth’s best abilities. Will they be able to work together or will their search for justice cost their relationship? And in the end, will they actually be able to get justice for the widow they aim to help?

City of Secrets is just as good as the first book in the series, City of Lies, and I loved that book! Exploring the concept of justice from both Elizabeth’s and Gideon’s perspectives added depth and nuance to the concept. Plus, Gideon’s mother is one of my all time favorite characters. She’s simply fantastic and I would be honored to have tea with her.

I highly recommend reading City of Secrets (and City of Lies for that matter, always better to start with the first book in a series). It will challenge you as much as entertain you. Even if historical fiction isn’t your go-to genre, you should definitely give this one a try.

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I borrowed this book from thr library. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”