"The Ivory City" | Reviewed by Diane Lick

“The Ivory City,” by Emily Bain Murphy, is a historical romance/murder mystery set in our own back yard. With thorough research, Murphy has captured the sights, sounds, smells, and wonders of the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, making this world-class event the center of her story.

Grace, the poor cousin of Lillie and Oliver, experiences the excitement of exploring the attractions of the fair by day and attending the gala evening events thanks to her cousins. Early in the opening week of the fair, a member of their set of friends is murdered and Oliver is charged with the crime.

The police are convinced of Oliver’s guilt, but Lillie and Grace set out to prove his innocence. During the course of their investigation the reader gets insights into the scenes of the fair as well as the role of social standing and the “rules” of life in 1904. Grace and Lillie are not the typical debutantes of the time and their sleuthing will keep readers intrigued until the mystery is solved.

“The Ivory City” is certain to draw interest not only because of its well-written story but because it’s set in St. Louis.

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