Seven For a Secret by Lindsay Faye

by:  Lindsay Faye
published by:  Amy Einhorn Books
publish date:  September 17, 2013

Six months after the formation of the NYPD, its most reluctant and talented officer, Timothy Wilde, thinks himself well versed in his city’s dark practices—until he learns of the gruesome underworld of lies and corruption ruled by the "blackbirders,” who snatch free Northerners of color from their homes, masquerade them as slaves, and sell them South to toil as plantation property.

Timothy, as one of the NYPD's first detectives, gets involved with the kidnapping of a woman's family.  Through his investigation the dark side of the Fugitive Slave law is revealed and the huge industry of kidnap for profit comes to light for Timothy.   Once again he is drawn in to the politics of New York and draws the ire of the Democrat party.  

Gods of Gotham was one of my favorite books in the last couple of years so I was really excited to read the sequel.  The story was a good follow up.  As usual, Lindsay Faye has a tremendous command of New York City history.  Her attention to the small details are what make her books so fantastic.  I really enjoy the "flash-patter" sprinkled in throughout the book, she does a good job controlling the colloquialisms some are good, too much gets annoying.  She has a nice balance.  

Seven for a Secret and Gods of Gotham are great historical fiction.  They're thrilling mysteries set in a really interesting time in American history.  I highly recommend both.  They'd make great holiday gifts if you're still looking.