A breezy read that brings turn of the 20th century New York to colourful life, this debut is a potent charmer. Based on the true life legal battle between 6ft tall Constance Kopp, who later went on to become the USA's first female deputy sheriff, and irascible Henry Kauffman, a mill owner with dangerous mafia connections, this is a pleasing tale of female empowerment with a light, humorous touch. When Constance and her two sisters riding in a buggy are hit by Kaufman's transport, she naturally seeks compensation and when it is not forthcoming wages a war of attrition and words on the culprit which is soon complicated by his criminal acquaintances, ensuing in threats, harassment, possible kidnapping and, in due course, the triumph of virtue. Feminist history with a light gossamer touch and a heroine who, one hopes, will make many future successful appearances on the page. Downright elegant and charming.
A National Bestseller A New York Times Editors' ChoiceA September 2015 Indie Next PickA Publishers Marketplace Buzz Book of 2015, Fall/WinterOne of USA Today's "New and Noteworthy"One of New York Post's "Must-Read" BooksOne of Cosmopolitan's "24 Books to Read this Fall"From the New York Times best-selling author of The Drunken Botanist comes an enthralling novel based on the forgotten true story of one of the nation's first female deputy sheriffs. Constance Kopp doesn't quite fit the mold. She towers over most men, has no interest in marriage or domestic affairs, and has been isolated from the world since a family secret sent her and her sisters into hiding fifteen years ago. One day a belligerent and powerful silk factory owner runs down their buggy, and a dispute over damages turns into a war of bricks, bullets, and threats as he unleashes his gang on their family farm. When the sheriff enlists her help in convicting the men, Constance is forced to confront her past and defend her family — and she does it in a way that few women of 1914 would have dared."A smart, romping adventure, featuring some of the most memorable and powerful female characters I've seen in print for a long time. I loved every page as I followed the Kopp sisters through a too-good-to-be-true (but mostly true!) tale of violence, courage, stubbornness, and resourcefulness." — Elizabeth GilbertCheck out the brand-new Kopp sisters adventure Lady Copy Makes Trouble available now!
