Jo Montfort is of the elite, even if she feels somewhat stifled by the expectations of the New York aristocracy. After all, she has a school paper she needs to be working on. She aims to be an investigative, social journalist like Jacob Riis or Nellie Bly. But Jo's world is upset by the suicide of her father, and her growing suspicions that it may not have been a suicide at all. 
 Of all Donnelly's historical novels, this reminded me the most of the Tea Rose, in the best possible way. These Shallow Graves features a strong and engaging female protagonist juxtaposed against a lush historical background. Our heroines in both books must struggle against class expectations, although Jo starts out at the top. Mystery, intrigue, and politics run throughout, while there is also a compelling romance simmering in the background. 
 Also, Donnelly's novels are wonderful in that they are set in a specific historical period, but still feminist as all get out. Take for example the following lines that feel like updated Wharton, although obviously without all the baggage of Wharton commentating on the actual society she was living in. Although, I think Donnelly is still commentating on today's society. 
 Donnelly is one of my favorite historical authors. She builds lush worlds that manage to show all sides. These are not shimmering backdrops against which her characters play. She builds very real stakes. Donnelly is also a master at complex characters that are interesting to read. There are a couple moments in the plot where it feels like we rely too much on that common romance trope miscommunication, but I also believe these characters with their insecurities would make those judgement calls. In the end, I devoured this novel as I did all Donnelly's others. And I was excited to see a YA edition to her body of work that so well aligned with the feeling I had while reading her adult trilogy, which I adored.