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The Unknown Beloved
From the bestselling author of Where the Lost Wander and What the Wind Knows comes the evocative story of two people whose paths collide against the backdrop of mystery, murder, and the Great Depression.
Chicago, 1923: Ten-year-old Dani Flanagan returns home to find police swarming the house, her parents dead. Michael Malone, the young patrolman assigned to the case, discovers there’s more to the situation—and to Dani Flanagan herself—than the authorities care to explore. Malone is told to shut his mouth, and Dani is sent away to live with her spinster aunts in Cleveland.
Fifteen years later, Michael Malone is summoned to Cleveland to investigate a series of murders that have everyone stumped, including his friend and famed Prohibition agent Eliot Ness, now Cleveland’s director of safety. There, in a city caught in the grip of a serial killer, Malone’s and Dani’s paths cross once again.
Malone is drawn to Dani and her affinity for the dead and compassion for the destitute. It doesn’t take long for him to realize that she could help him solve his case. As terror descends on the city and Malone and Dani confront the dark secrets that draw them together, it’s a race to find the killer or risk becoming his next victims.
Chicago, 1923: Ten-year-old Dani Flanagan returns home to find police swarming the house, her parents dead. Michael Malone, the young patrolman assigned to the case, discovers there’s more to the situation—and to Dani Flanagan herself—than the authorities care to explore. Malone is told to shut his mouth, and Dani is sent away to live with her spinster aunts in Cleveland.
Fifteen years later, Michael Malone is summoned to Cleveland to investigate a series of murders that have everyone stumped, including his friend and famed Prohibition agent Eliot Ness, now Cleveland’s director of safety. There, in a city caught in the grip of a serial killer, Malone’s and Dani’s paths cross once again.
Malone is drawn to Dani and her affinity for the dead and compassion for the destitute. It doesn’t take long for him to realize that she could help him solve his case. As terror descends on the city and Malone and Dani confront the dark secrets that draw them together, it’s a race to find the killer or risk becoming his next victims.
413 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2022
3923 people are currently reading
18330 people want to read
About the author
Amy Harmon
26 books20.4k followersAmy Harmon is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and New York Times Bestselling author. Amy knew at an early age that writing was something she wanted to do, and she divided her time between writing songs and stories as she grew. Having grown up in the middle of wheat fields without a television, with only her books and her siblings to entertain her, she developed a strong sense of what made a good story. Her books are now being published in two dozen languages, truly a dream come true for a little country girl.
Amy Harmon has written eighteen novels including the USA Today Bestsellers, Making Faces and Running Barefoot, as well as The Law of Moses, Infinity + One and the New York Times Bestseller, A Different Blue. Her fantasy novel, The Bird and the Sword, was a Goodreads Book of the Year finalist. Her newest release, What the Wind Knows, is an Amazon charts and Wall Street Journal bestseller. For updates on upcoming book releases, author posts and more, join Amy at www.authoramyharmon.com.
Amy Harmon has written eighteen novels including the USA Today Bestsellers, Making Faces and Running Barefoot, as well as The Law of Moses, Infinity + One and the New York Times Bestseller, A Different Blue. Her fantasy novel, The Bird and the Sword, was a Goodreads Book of the Year finalist. Her newest release, What the Wind Knows, is an Amazon charts and Wall Street Journal bestseller. For updates on upcoming book releases, author posts and more, join Amy at www.authoramyharmon.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,871 reviews
April 15, 2023
The Unknown Beloved by Amy Harmon
Before I picked up this book, I was already aware of Eliot Ness's involvement in the "Torso Murders". Years earlier he'd been involved in bringing down Al Capone with the help of his agents, The Untouchables. I knew nothing about one of those agents, Michael Malone, but read about him before starting the story.
Harmon does a great job of blending real people and real events into a fictional story that stays true to history. Mike Malone is a young police officer when he meets ten year old Dani Flanagan, in 1923. Her parents have just been murdered and Dani is understandably upset, while Mike has his own sadness, and this murder just jades him even more. The next day Mike takes a train ride with Dani, from Chicago to Cleveland, so Dani can be with her remaining relatives.
Fifteen years later, Ness needs Malone's help in Cleveland because there is a serial killer on the loose and Ness needs someone to infiltrate the poor and homeless since those people seem to be the target of the murderer. The unknowns who are made known by their deaths. The rooming house that Ness finds for Malone is owned by Dani and her elderly aunts.
Malone is all business, cold and hard, not about to let anyone in after his failed marriage and the death of his two children, long ago. Dani has no pretense and she recognizes Malone immediately. Thus starts a reluctant friendship on the part of Malone, as he spends some of his time helping Dani clean and dress the indigent dead as part of her way to supplement the income of her tailoring business. Dani has a special talent of being able to feel the cloth belonging to a person and know them. By doing so for these dead and forgotten people, she is able to write obituaries for them, to be seen by no one but to insure that they are remembered by her.
I became so caught up in the work of Malone and Ness and also in the relationship between Malone and Dani. This story reminds me of old timey black and white movies. The time, the place, the dress, the atmosphere is so real I could feel it. And the back and forth between Malone and Dani rings true. A man backing away from being close to someone and a woman who won't chase but won't accept less than all.
Publication: April 19, 2022
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.
Before I picked up this book, I was already aware of Eliot Ness's involvement in the "Torso Murders". Years earlier he'd been involved in bringing down Al Capone with the help of his agents, The Untouchables. I knew nothing about one of those agents, Michael Malone, but read about him before starting the story.
Harmon does a great job of blending real people and real events into a fictional story that stays true to history. Mike Malone is a young police officer when he meets ten year old Dani Flanagan, in 1923. Her parents have just been murdered and Dani is understandably upset, while Mike has his own sadness, and this murder just jades him even more. The next day Mike takes a train ride with Dani, from Chicago to Cleveland, so Dani can be with her remaining relatives.
Fifteen years later, Ness needs Malone's help in Cleveland because there is a serial killer on the loose and Ness needs someone to infiltrate the poor and homeless since those people seem to be the target of the murderer. The unknowns who are made known by their deaths. The rooming house that Ness finds for Malone is owned by Dani and her elderly aunts.
Malone is all business, cold and hard, not about to let anyone in after his failed marriage and the death of his two children, long ago. Dani has no pretense and she recognizes Malone immediately. Thus starts a reluctant friendship on the part of Malone, as he spends some of his time helping Dani clean and dress the indigent dead as part of her way to supplement the income of her tailoring business. Dani has a special talent of being able to feel the cloth belonging to a person and know them. By doing so for these dead and forgotten people, she is able to write obituaries for them, to be seen by no one but to insure that they are remembered by her.
I became so caught up in the work of Malone and Ness and also in the relationship between Malone and Dani. This story reminds me of old timey black and white movies. The time, the place, the dress, the atmosphere is so real I could feel it. And the back and forth between Malone and Dani rings true. A man backing away from being close to someone and a woman who won't chase but won't accept less than all.
Publication: April 19, 2022
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.
February 13, 2022
Treasury agent and former cop Michael Malone, is on a special assignment for none other than Eliot Ness! Ness is now Safety Director in Cleveland, and he assigns Malone with the job of finding the serial killer nicknamed The Butcher, who leaves victims body parts in different places, at different times around the city of Cleveland, with some of the victims having been dead for up to a year. The victims appear to be of the indigent population, those who are unlikely to be missed by anyone.
The police have been over and over the case with no luck, and the hierarchy are afraid they’re becoming the laughing stock. They want this person caught and Ness believes Malone is the man for the job.
Malone travels to Cleveland and Ness arranges lodgings for him, but on arrival the landlady, a young woman named Dani, recognises him which isn’t good as he’s supposed to be working undercover.
The two last met when Dani Flanagan was just ten years old and Malone was the young patrolman who had the unenviable job of telling her that her parents were dead. Dani never forgot his kindness though. She was sent to live with her spinster aunts in Cleveland, and it was Malone who escorted her there. Over the years Malone had thought about this kid, and now here she was, a fully grown woman.
The race to catch the killer is on, and Dani will become a useful tool in helping Malone discover who is responsible for these gruesome murders, and she does so in a most unusual way!
A truly gripping and atmospheric tale, based on fact, with some great protagonists, and a little romance thrown in for good measure. Highly recommended!
*Thank you to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
The police have been over and over the case with no luck, and the hierarchy are afraid they’re becoming the laughing stock. They want this person caught and Ness believes Malone is the man for the job.
Malone travels to Cleveland and Ness arranges lodgings for him, but on arrival the landlady, a young woman named Dani, recognises him which isn’t good as he’s supposed to be working undercover.
The two last met when Dani Flanagan was just ten years old and Malone was the young patrolman who had the unenviable job of telling her that her parents were dead. Dani never forgot his kindness though. She was sent to live with her spinster aunts in Cleveland, and it was Malone who escorted her there. Over the years Malone had thought about this kid, and now here she was, a fully grown woman.
The race to catch the killer is on, and Dani will become a useful tool in helping Malone discover who is responsible for these gruesome murders, and she does so in a most unusual way!
A truly gripping and atmospheric tale, based on fact, with some great protagonists, and a little romance thrown in for good measure. Highly recommended!
*Thank you to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
April 23, 2022
another absolute success of a story for AH! but im honeslty not surprised by that. i could give her 5 stars all day long.
what did surprise me, however, was just how much this leaned into the crime aspect. its quite gritty with the murder details, which doesnt really feel like AHs particular writing aesthetic, but i actually enjoyed that a lot! this still has the classic sweet romance and deep character development of her usual historical novels, but it was fun to have a little mystery/suspense component thrown in there.
so something a little different, but still very much a classic AH story.
↠ 5 stars
what did surprise me, however, was just how much this leaned into the crime aspect. its quite gritty with the murder details, which doesnt really feel like AHs particular writing aesthetic, but i actually enjoyed that a lot! this still has the classic sweet romance and deep character development of her usual historical novels, but it was fun to have a little mystery/suspense component thrown in there.
so something a little different, but still very much a classic AH story.
↠ 5 stars
February 6, 2022
Hunka Munka.......This one has bite.
You know what keeps me awake at night? Not Dracula, not fictitious ghost stories, not Scooby in pursuit of the disguised bad guys in haunted houses. It's REAL people doing really bad things.....in multiples. People who have discarded their humanity and prey upon the weak. The demented of society who seem to be poppin' up more and more and on a grander scale.
Amy Harmon has created a winner of a read here boxed up from the seed of true crime. The Unknown Beloved is based on actual happenings in the 1930's in Cleveland, Ohio during the Great Depression. We all remember Eliot Ness who locked horns with the infamous Al Capone back in Chicago. Capone was involved in murder, mayhem, bootlegging, and syndicated crime. After Capone was jailed for tax evasion, Ness was sent to Cleveland as the Safety Director.
The position of Safety Director was now being brushed with broad strokes. Cleveland's Kingsbury Run, a once prosperous part of the city, was suffocating under the clenches of The Butcher, a serial killer who dismembered the victims and left them at random in empty lots. Ness and his band of men known as The Unknowns (like the Untouchables) were coming up empty. Crime fighting was making advancements, but DNA was unimaginable back then. The only unifying clue was the fact that the majority of victims appeared to be poor and homeless with no family connections.
Eliot Ness calls in one of his men from Chicago, Michael Malone, who worked under cover and was responsible in corraling Capone. Malone will be boarding at a home in the Czech neighborhood owned by three women tailors. Malone will have a connection with Daniela from his Chicago days. It is here that the story will take on an even wider expanse with "Dani" stepping forward. We will come to know of her remarkable gift as this story unfolds.
The Unknown Beloved will grip you from the beginning pages. Believe me, I was gripped. And what weaves through this storyline is the element of its true crime. Don't dare research this crime yet until you've read this book. Harmon has done a remarkable job in keeping to the real facts while inserting some fictional characters here and there. Read the Author's Note. And then purchase a little nightlight from Walmart.......ya gonna need it.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Lake Union Publishing and to Amy Harmon for the opportunity.
You know what keeps me awake at night? Not Dracula, not fictitious ghost stories, not Scooby in pursuit of the disguised bad guys in haunted houses. It's REAL people doing really bad things.....in multiples. People who have discarded their humanity and prey upon the weak. The demented of society who seem to be poppin' up more and more and on a grander scale.
Amy Harmon has created a winner of a read here boxed up from the seed of true crime. The Unknown Beloved is based on actual happenings in the 1930's in Cleveland, Ohio during the Great Depression. We all remember Eliot Ness who locked horns with the infamous Al Capone back in Chicago. Capone was involved in murder, mayhem, bootlegging, and syndicated crime. After Capone was jailed for tax evasion, Ness was sent to Cleveland as the Safety Director.
The position of Safety Director was now being brushed with broad strokes. Cleveland's Kingsbury Run, a once prosperous part of the city, was suffocating under the clenches of The Butcher, a serial killer who dismembered the victims and left them at random in empty lots. Ness and his band of men known as The Unknowns (like the Untouchables) were coming up empty. Crime fighting was making advancements, but DNA was unimaginable back then. The only unifying clue was the fact that the majority of victims appeared to be poor and homeless with no family connections.
Eliot Ness calls in one of his men from Chicago, Michael Malone, who worked under cover and was responsible in corraling Capone. Malone will be boarding at a home in the Czech neighborhood owned by three women tailors. Malone will have a connection with Daniela from his Chicago days. It is here that the story will take on an even wider expanse with "Dani" stepping forward. We will come to know of her remarkable gift as this story unfolds.
The Unknown Beloved will grip you from the beginning pages. Believe me, I was gripped. And what weaves through this storyline is the element of its true crime. Don't dare research this crime yet until you've read this book. Harmon has done a remarkable job in keeping to the real facts while inserting some fictional characters here and there. Read the Author's Note. And then purchase a little nightlight from Walmart.......ya gonna need it.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Lake Union Publishing and to Amy Harmon for the opportunity.
April 6, 2022
This one starts off with a bang! It's 1923 in Chicago. Dani Flanagan is 10 years old and she comes home and finds the police at her door. Her parents have been murdered. A young cop by the name of Michael Malone is assigned to keep her under control. I loved the opening!
Fifteen years later Michael Malone is sent to Cleveland to investigate a serial killer on the loose who has been nicknamed, "The Butcher" of Kingsbury Run. Here, Michael meets up with the adult Dani, who now lives with her elderly Aunts. Michael takes up lodging in her home as he works in Cleveland to solve the murders. Dani begins to get close to him and he discovers she has a special "gift" that will help him in solving the crimes.
I loved how Amy Harmon incorporated real-life events and people in her story. The setting and time frame were especially good. She had everything down to a T - the dialogue, and descriptions were excellent. There was a bit of mystery and romance in this one but as much as I love Amy Harmon this to me was not her at her best. I just found it dragged at some points.
I absolutely loved her novels, "What the Wind Knows," and "Where the Lost Wander." This one for me was not up to par with those. Still, a good book just not as great as I had anticipated it to be.
I'd like to kindly thank NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for granting me access to this Advance Reader Copy.
Fifteen years later Michael Malone is sent to Cleveland to investigate a serial killer on the loose who has been nicknamed, "The Butcher" of Kingsbury Run. Here, Michael meets up with the adult Dani, who now lives with her elderly Aunts. Michael takes up lodging in her home as he works in Cleveland to solve the murders. Dani begins to get close to him and he discovers she has a special "gift" that will help him in solving the crimes.
I loved how Amy Harmon incorporated real-life events and people in her story. The setting and time frame were especially good. She had everything down to a T - the dialogue, and descriptions were excellent. There was a bit of mystery and romance in this one but as much as I love Amy Harmon this to me was not her at her best. I just found it dragged at some points.
I absolutely loved her novels, "What the Wind Knows," and "Where the Lost Wander." This one for me was not up to par with those. Still, a good book just not as great as I had anticipated it to be.
I'd like to kindly thank NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for granting me access to this Advance Reader Copy.
February 16, 2022
At 40% I'm done with this one!!!! The blurb sounded very interesting and the beginning had promise. Unfotunately it went downhill very quickly. I enjoyed the time period and the setting but the characters were unbelievable and not relatable.
The worst part however is the crime that they are trying to solve. This criminal is called "The Butcher" and for a good reason. The crimes are described in all of their gory, disgusting detail and truthfully made me sick to my stomach. And it keeps on coming, I was on victim #6 when I quit!!
I don't know what the author was trying to do with this book. It was historical fiction, with a terrible crime and unrelatable characters.
I don't think I'll be trying any other books by this author.
This was a buddy read with Mary Beth and we both gave up on it.
The worst part however is the crime that they are trying to solve. This criminal is called "The Butcher" and for a good reason. The crimes are described in all of their gory, disgusting detail and truthfully made me sick to my stomach. And it keeps on coming, I was on victim #6 when I quit!!
I don't know what the author was trying to do with this book. It was historical fiction, with a terrible crime and unrelatable characters.
I don't think I'll be trying any other books by this author.
This was a buddy read with Mary Beth and we both gave up on it.
April 2, 2022
5 stars
Above all, The Unknown Beloved was a beautiful story about love. I’ll be the first to admit that it wasn’t a book I would normally pick up, but I love any and everything Amy Harmon writes and I’m so glad I went out of my comfort zone and gave it a chance. The writing was superb and the story kept me guessing.
The story starts in Chicago during the 1920’s when Dani Flanagan loses her parents. She’s only ten years old and is sent to Cleveland to live with her aunts. Michael Malone is a young cop who helps Dani. Fast forward fifteen. years later and Malone is on a case that takes him to Cleveland and to a familiar face, Dani.
Dani is such a special heroine. I loved her heart, her ability to love, care, and to see things others didn’t see. She has a gift and she uses it for good. Michael hasn’t had an easy life and he is the grumpy to Dani’s sunshine. But don’t we all love heroes like this? He was hardened by life but Dani helps to soften him up a bit.
This is a book that transcends just one genre. It’s historical, it’s a romance, it’s a thriller, it’s a mystery… it’s a lot of things all at once. Once again I’ll say, above all, it’s a story about love. I highly recommend this to lovers of romance, as well as readers of suspense/thrillers. Amy’s writing is phenomenal and the story is unique and captivating.
Above all, The Unknown Beloved was a beautiful story about love. I’ll be the first to admit that it wasn’t a book I would normally pick up, but I love any and everything Amy Harmon writes and I’m so glad I went out of my comfort zone and gave it a chance. The writing was superb and the story kept me guessing.
The story starts in Chicago during the 1920’s when Dani Flanagan loses her parents. She’s only ten years old and is sent to Cleveland to live with her aunts. Michael Malone is a young cop who helps Dani. Fast forward fifteen. years later and Malone is on a case that takes him to Cleveland and to a familiar face, Dani.
Dani is such a special heroine. I loved her heart, her ability to love, care, and to see things others didn’t see. She has a gift and she uses it for good. Michael hasn’t had an easy life and he is the grumpy to Dani’s sunshine. But don’t we all love heroes like this? He was hardened by life but Dani helps to soften him up a bit.
This is a book that transcends just one genre. It’s historical, it’s a romance, it’s a thriller, it’s a mystery… it’s a lot of things all at once. Once again I’ll say, above all, it’s a story about love. I highly recommend this to lovers of romance, as well as readers of suspense/thrillers. Amy’s writing is phenomenal and the story is unique and captivating.
January 26, 2022
4-5 stars
In January 1923 the day before her 10th birthday, Dani Flanagan’s parents are murdered. Officer Michael Malone attends the scene and is kind to Dani. Fast forward 15 years and he is back in Chicago following an assignment overseas and is visited by Eliot Ness who is now based in Cleveland, Ohio. Michael has worked with Ness previously on the Capone case and he now needs Michaels help with the Torso killer, the Butcher of Kingsbury Run. Ness is so desperate for assistance to catch this brutal serial killer he’s already rented Michael a room in Cleveland, in the Czech district . Coincidence of all coincidences, the room is in the home of Dani’s aunts who she has lived with since 1923. In this latest novel Amy Harmon weaves fact with fiction in this fascinating novel.
This is a very well written book, you fly through it as it’s just so easy to read. I love the characterisation which is extremely good. Elliot Ness springs to life before your eyes and his sympathetic portrayal is fantastic. The characters of Dani and her aunts are also good with her aunts making you smile especially in some of the clever dialogue. Michael Malone is also a true character though more shadowy than Ness and I like his character very much too. He’s a complex man, hard-working, intuitive, brave and likeable. The connection between Dani and Malone is done well, it’s like they are intertwined from the start and I love the journey they go on. He seems dark to her light but it goes deeper than that.
This is a great combination of a romance with an intriguing true crime mystery with some supernatural elements chucked in for good measure. I love this element which is done very effectively and believably. The serial killer story is absorbing but far from pretty, the killings are utterly gruesome.I knew nothing about this killer and the novel has led me to reading about it and Ness’ involvement in the investigation. The story builds to tense conclusion and a great outcome.
This is an accomplished historical novel with much more to it than most. It’s a very compelling and absorbing read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Lake Union for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
In January 1923 the day before her 10th birthday, Dani Flanagan’s parents are murdered. Officer Michael Malone attends the scene and is kind to Dani. Fast forward 15 years and he is back in Chicago following an assignment overseas and is visited by Eliot Ness who is now based in Cleveland, Ohio. Michael has worked with Ness previously on the Capone case and he now needs Michaels help with the Torso killer, the Butcher of Kingsbury Run. Ness is so desperate for assistance to catch this brutal serial killer he’s already rented Michael a room in Cleveland, in the Czech district . Coincidence of all coincidences, the room is in the home of Dani’s aunts who she has lived with since 1923. In this latest novel Amy Harmon weaves fact with fiction in this fascinating novel.
This is a very well written book, you fly through it as it’s just so easy to read. I love the characterisation which is extremely good. Elliot Ness springs to life before your eyes and his sympathetic portrayal is fantastic. The characters of Dani and her aunts are also good with her aunts making you smile especially in some of the clever dialogue. Michael Malone is also a true character though more shadowy than Ness and I like his character very much too. He’s a complex man, hard-working, intuitive, brave and likeable. The connection between Dani and Malone is done well, it’s like they are intertwined from the start and I love the journey they go on. He seems dark to her light but it goes deeper than that.
This is a great combination of a romance with an intriguing true crime mystery with some supernatural elements chucked in for good measure. I love this element which is done very effectively and believably. The serial killer story is absorbing but far from pretty, the killings are utterly gruesome.I knew nothing about this killer and the novel has led me to reading about it and Ness’ involvement in the investigation. The story builds to tense conclusion and a great outcome.
This is an accomplished historical novel with much more to it than most. It’s a very compelling and absorbing read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Lake Union for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
July 23, 2022
In a Nutshell: I went in with no expectations, and came away enthralled. A wonderful blend of fact and fiction, written in the typical Amy Harmon style of blending multiple genres. Character-oriented story, so it is slow-paced. But the writing was enough to keep me satisfied.
Story Synopsis:
Where the book worked for me:
💜 Harmon nails the historical aspect of the story. The 1930s era with the post-depression slump and gangsters and unemployment and slums feels so authentic!
💜 Harmon is excellent at sketching characters, and this is no exception. Dani and Michael’s personalities reveal themselves bit by bit and you understand them and their decisions very well as the story progresses. I loved how Dani holds her own rather than being a victim of the circumstances. Dani’s aunts, Eliot Ness and even minor characters such as Darby O’Shea and Steve are written such that you will never wonder about their behaviour.
💜 Cleveland is also almost like a character in the story. The city is brought alive with Harmon’s words. I love it when a story uses its location setting well.
💜 I am not a fan of the way age-gap romance is written in fiction. Plus, I didn’t expect the Dani and Malone track to go the romantic way because she was just a child when she first met him. BUT their relationship develops gradually and realistically and doesn’t feel shoehorned or awkward at any stage. I was quite surprised to see myself enjoying the romantic track in a non-romance genre book. This hardly ever happens.
💜 I hadn’t previously heard of the mysterious “Torso Killer” of Cleveland and was wondering whether to research info about him before beginning the book or go into it blind. I chose the former option and didn’t regret it. I was as worried as the residents of Cleveland about the unknown serial killer. (I guess this depends on the reader – no harm even if you go in blind. But better be prepared for the gruesomeness.)
💜 The author’s note at the end reveals clearly to what extent her story contained facts and where she needed to incorporate fictitious elements. She also states why she chose an ending that varied from the facts. Her line about “giving them the ending they deserved” won my heart. I LOVED the ending! How I wish the ending in real life had been the same!
Where the book still worked for me but might not work for others:
⚠ The book is a mishmash of various genres that don’t necessarily work well together. It has some or many elements of historical fiction, crime, police procedural, literary fiction, magical realism (the odd one out!), drama, and romance. If you expect it to adhere to a singular agenda, you will be mighty disappointed because it seeks to do justice to all of these. I love genre-blending books, so this wasn’t an issue for me.
⚠ When the serial killer is infamous as the “Torso Killer”, you can expect grisly crime in the book. While none of the crimes happen on the page, the way the bodies of the victims are found is not for the squeamish. If this weren’t based on a true crime, I would have been disgusted at the author’s attempt to sensationalise killings. But sadly, this is how the torso killer actually functioned and I can’t hold the horrendous depiction of the butchery against the author. From what I read online about the murders, the author has been faithful in her depiction.
Where the book did not work for me:
💔 It was really slow, especially in the first half. You don’t see where the plot is going until about a third into the story. I should have been better prepared for this as it was a character-oriented book.
💔 I wish it had a different cover. While the cover makes perfect sense once you know the story, it doesn’t scream “Pick me!” in a bookshop and doesn’t prepare the reader for what’s in the content.
Overall though, I am very pleased with this book. It focussed on “slow and steady” rather than “fast and breathless”. But this works wonderfully because of the layered characters, complex plot and imaginative resolution. If you go in mentally prepared for the triggers and are ready to “go with the flow”, this story will work its magic on you.
4.25 stars.
My thanks to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Unknown Beloved”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
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Story Synopsis:
The prologue set in 1923 Chicago tells us of ten year old Dani, whose parents are found dead the day before her birthday. Michael Malone, a young police officer on the site, feels sorry for the little girl and ensures she is delivered safely to her spinster aunts’ house in Cleveland.
Fifteen years later, Dani and Michael’s paths cross once again as Michael is assigned to assist agent Eliot Ness in investigating a series of gory murders. Unknown to Michael, Dani has a special ability that might help him crack the case. How will things move from here? Read and find out.
Where the book worked for me:
💜 Harmon nails the historical aspect of the story. The 1930s era with the post-depression slump and gangsters and unemployment and slums feels so authentic!
💜 Harmon is excellent at sketching characters, and this is no exception. Dani and Michael’s personalities reveal themselves bit by bit and you understand them and their decisions very well as the story progresses. I loved how Dani holds her own rather than being a victim of the circumstances. Dani’s aunts, Eliot Ness and even minor characters such as Darby O’Shea and Steve are written such that you will never wonder about their behaviour.
💜 Cleveland is also almost like a character in the story. The city is brought alive with Harmon’s words. I love it when a story uses its location setting well.
💜 I am not a fan of the way age-gap romance is written in fiction. Plus, I didn’t expect the Dani and Malone track to go the romantic way because she was just a child when she first met him. BUT their relationship develops gradually and realistically and doesn’t feel shoehorned or awkward at any stage. I was quite surprised to see myself enjoying the romantic track in a non-romance genre book. This hardly ever happens.
💜 I hadn’t previously heard of the mysterious “Torso Killer” of Cleveland and was wondering whether to research info about him before beginning the book or go into it blind. I chose the former option and didn’t regret it. I was as worried as the residents of Cleveland about the unknown serial killer. (I guess this depends on the reader – no harm even if you go in blind. But better be prepared for the gruesomeness.)
💜 The author’s note at the end reveals clearly to what extent her story contained facts and where she needed to incorporate fictitious elements. She also states why she chose an ending that varied from the facts. Her line about “giving them the ending they deserved” won my heart. I LOVED the ending! How I wish the ending in real life had been the same!
Where the book still worked for me but might not work for others:
⚠ The book is a mishmash of various genres that don’t necessarily work well together. It has some or many elements of historical fiction, crime, police procedural, literary fiction, magical realism (the odd one out!), drama, and romance. If you expect it to adhere to a singular agenda, you will be mighty disappointed because it seeks to do justice to all of these. I love genre-blending books, so this wasn’t an issue for me.
⚠ When the serial killer is infamous as the “Torso Killer”, you can expect grisly crime in the book. While none of the crimes happen on the page, the way the bodies of the victims are found is not for the squeamish. If this weren’t based on a true crime, I would have been disgusted at the author’s attempt to sensationalise killings. But sadly, this is how the torso killer actually functioned and I can’t hold the horrendous depiction of the butchery against the author. From what I read online about the murders, the author has been faithful in her depiction.
Where the book did not work for me:
💔 It was really slow, especially in the first half. You don’t see where the plot is going until about a third into the story. I should have been better prepared for this as it was a character-oriented book.
💔 I wish it had a different cover. While the cover makes perfect sense once you know the story, it doesn’t scream “Pick me!” in a bookshop and doesn’t prepare the reader for what’s in the content.
Overall though, I am very pleased with this book. It focussed on “slow and steady” rather than “fast and breathless”. But this works wonderfully because of the layered characters, complex plot and imaginative resolution. If you go in mentally prepared for the triggers and are ready to “go with the flow”, this story will work its magic on you.
4.25 stars.
My thanks to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC of “The Unknown Beloved”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
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October 30, 2024
5+⭐️
If I ever wondered whether or not Amy Harmon could write any kind of genre, it’s definitely not now. This book is a living proof testament of this.
Think, 6th Sense meets The Others, and their child was the movie—Split. This book was intense!! It literally kept me guessing the whole time.
I’m swept away by Michael Malone, and Dani Flanagan’s connection they shared. I love that this was an 15 year age gap, and a slow burn so delicious, tension so thick, that literally felt it on my skin while reading. Dani kept chipping away at the broody, icy man that seemed to melt everytime Dani looked at him with her probing different color eyes.
“Malone’s darkness reminded her of deep waters and long nights. She suspected his darkness was loneliness, and it echoed in her own breast.”
I love that what started as annoyance turned into adoration. Boy did he adore Dani.
Amy defies all genres. You will never be able to fit her into any preconceived mold..she will always break through leaving you breathless. This story is so much more than true crime. It’s history and bone chilling moments that feel like ice water in your veins. It’s watching this amazing love story between two people take place that warms your soul. Dani chips away at Malone’s defenses just by being who she is—you gotta read to find out just what she possesses. It’s mystery and passion and everything Amy. I can’t wait for everyone to have this amazing book in their hands, on their shelves and most of all in their hearts because that’s where Amy’s books always end up. ~
If I ever wondered whether or not Amy Harmon could write any kind of genre, it’s definitely not now. This book is a living proof testament of this.
Think, 6th Sense meets The Others, and their child was the movie—Split. This book was intense!! It literally kept me guessing the whole time.
I’m swept away by Michael Malone, and Dani Flanagan’s connection they shared. I love that this was an 15 year age gap, and a slow burn so delicious, tension so thick, that literally felt it on my skin while reading. Dani kept chipping away at the broody, icy man that seemed to melt everytime Dani looked at him with her probing different color eyes.
“Malone’s darkness reminded her of deep waters and long nights. She suspected his darkness was loneliness, and it echoed in her own breast.”
I love that what started as annoyance turned into adoration. Boy did he adore Dani.
Amy defies all genres. You will never be able to fit her into any preconceived mold..she will always break through leaving you breathless. This story is so much more than true crime. It’s history and bone chilling moments that feel like ice water in your veins. It’s watching this amazing love story between two people take place that warms your soul. Dani chips away at Malone’s defenses just by being who she is—you gotta read to find out just what she possesses. It’s mystery and passion and everything Amy. I can’t wait for everyone to have this amazing book in their hands, on their shelves and most of all in their hearts because that’s where Amy’s books always end up. ~
December 28, 2022
The Unknown Beloved is an imaginative telling of the criminal investigation into the Torso Murders committed in Cleveland, Ohio during the 1930s. The Unknown beloved were the nameless victims, with no families to report them missing or care that they were gone.
Eliot Ness, who was working for the city during the murders, brings in Michael Malone, a special agent for the Treasury Department to assist with the investigation. Malone boards at the home of Daniella Flanigan who lives with her maiden aunts in Cleveland. Malone first met Dani fifteen years earlier when he was a beat cop in Chicago assigned to help her after her parents died under suspicious circumstances. It was then Malone learned of Dani's special ability to read stories from fabric.
Part mystery and part love story, the Unknown Beloved is a fascinating look at the 1930s.
Eliot Ness, who was working for the city during the murders, brings in Michael Malone, a special agent for the Treasury Department to assist with the investigation. Malone boards at the home of Daniella Flanigan who lives with her maiden aunts in Cleveland. Malone first met Dani fifteen years earlier when he was a beat cop in Chicago assigned to help her after her parents died under suspicious circumstances. It was then Malone learned of Dani's special ability to read stories from fabric.
Part mystery and part love story, the Unknown Beloved is a fascinating look at the 1930s.
January 4, 2023
4.5 Stars
THE UNKNOWN BELOVED is a book I read in one sitting – no surprise there. Without an actual break because I couldn’t put it down. It was captivating beyond words, and features one of the most understated heroes.
Michael Malone is the MAN!!!! He was swoon worthy above all else, and a man to fall in love wiht so easily, it was ridiculous. Michael is everything I love about a great hero, like Dallas from WAIT FOR IT!! He snuck up on me and made my heart sing – THANK YOU Amy Harmon for writing such an incredible character.
But beyond the man is a story that bespelled me.
Not just the story, but the characters too.
Dani Flanagan is a heroine whose character and personality I admired. The way she buckled down and got things done. Strong in character and mind, especially in mind because she knew what she wanted, and Michael was the man for her. Together they made sense. And were the heart and soul of the book.
Their love story was a quiet one at the beginning. A slow burn that built and strengthened until there was no denying it anymore. I love these kind of love stories the most. No insta burn, lust or love. Instead there is a colliding of minds and hearts until they are fused together and can’t be broken anymore. There is this one scene at the end, when Michael breaks down, and it overwhelmed me and filled my heart to the brim. So much HEART!!!!!
When it comes to story telling Amy Harmon is an expert. She weaves fact and fiction in such a way that I can’t tell anymore what is fiction and what’s not. And the real life murder mystery had me glued to the pages. The book is a perfect blend of romance, historical fiction, and mystery and I was there for it from beginning to end. I already can’t wait to read her next book and know without a doubt that I’ll be as fascinated by it as I was with THE UNKNOWN BELOVED. I just know it. At this point it’s a given. Amy Harmon writes books that weave spells and don’t let go until the end.
So, if you love historical romance/historical fiction you are definitely going to enjoy it!!! It’s full of vibrant history, actual people that lived and were part of a real life mystery. Cleveland and Chicago as the locations during The Great Depression were fascinating topics for me. And I wish more author’s would pick such iconic and interesting plots.
So, don’t wait!! Give it a go and let me know how you liked it!!
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the author for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
THE UNKNOWN BELOVED is a book I read in one sitting – no surprise there. Without an actual break because I couldn’t put it down. It was captivating beyond words, and features one of the most understated heroes.
Michael Malone is the MAN!!!! He was swoon worthy above all else, and a man to fall in love wiht so easily, it was ridiculous. Michael is everything I love about a great hero, like Dallas from WAIT FOR IT!! He snuck up on me and made my heart sing – THANK YOU Amy Harmon for writing such an incredible character.
But beyond the man is a story that bespelled me.
Not just the story, but the characters too.
Dani Flanagan is a heroine whose character and personality I admired. The way she buckled down and got things done. Strong in character and mind, especially in mind because she knew what she wanted, and Michael was the man for her. Together they made sense. And were the heart and soul of the book.
Their love story was a quiet one at the beginning. A slow burn that built and strengthened until there was no denying it anymore. I love these kind of love stories the most. No insta burn, lust or love. Instead there is a colliding of minds and hearts until they are fused together and can’t be broken anymore. There is this one scene at the end, when Michael breaks down, and it overwhelmed me and filled my heart to the brim. So much HEART!!!!!
When it comes to story telling Amy Harmon is an expert. She weaves fact and fiction in such a way that I can’t tell anymore what is fiction and what’s not. And the real life murder mystery had me glued to the pages. The book is a perfect blend of romance, historical fiction, and mystery and I was there for it from beginning to end. I already can’t wait to read her next book and know without a doubt that I’ll be as fascinated by it as I was with THE UNKNOWN BELOVED. I just know it. At this point it’s a given. Amy Harmon writes books that weave spells and don’t let go until the end.
So, if you love historical romance/historical fiction you are definitely going to enjoy it!!! It’s full of vibrant history, actual people that lived and were part of a real life mystery. Cleveland and Chicago as the locations during The Great Depression were fascinating topics for me. And I wish more author’s would pick such iconic and interesting plots.
So, don’t wait!! Give it a go and let me know how you liked it!!
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the author for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
January 8, 2022
Is there any better way to start a new year than reading an excellent book by the lovely Amy Harmon? No, I think not.
The Unknown Beloved combines historical romance and mystery thriller with an age gap and a slow burn, written in Amy Harmon's signature poetic prose. Reading this book was an absolute pleasure from start to finish, and I had a hard time putting it down long enough to function as a normal human.
The storyline follows a beautiful journey into the heart of a saintly treasure named Dani, who uses her supernatural gifts to give names to the indigent dead in the downtrodden times of the 1930s.
Juxtaposing Dani is the threat of an evil serial killer who is taunting police with his cleverness and cunning. Then there is Michael, the mysterious government agent tasked with finding The Mad Butcher of Kingsbury Run and has a history with Dani, making this the perfect way to bring them together once again.
While the sordid details about the murders are shared, it doesn't in any way take away from the beauty of the relationship between Dani and Michael. Both have seen hardships in their lives, but Dani's inherent light and goodness rescue Michael from his life of self-imposed loveless isolation. Their growth throughout the story is so believable and heartwarming; I wanted to read about them long after the book ended.
As with several of Amy Harmon's other books, historical figures and events are prominent within the plot, this time the infamous Elliot Ness of Al Capone fame. I love how she weaves history and pearls of wisdom on the state of humanity into her storylines.
The Unknown Beloved is one book that needs to be on your TBR for 2022!
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ For more reviews, visit http://www.totallybex.com
The Unknown Beloved combines historical romance and mystery thriller with an age gap and a slow burn, written in Amy Harmon's signature poetic prose. Reading this book was an absolute pleasure from start to finish, and I had a hard time putting it down long enough to function as a normal human.
The storyline follows a beautiful journey into the heart of a saintly treasure named Dani, who uses her supernatural gifts to give names to the indigent dead in the downtrodden times of the 1930s.
Juxtaposing Dani is the threat of an evil serial killer who is taunting police with his cleverness and cunning. Then there is Michael, the mysterious government agent tasked with finding The Mad Butcher of Kingsbury Run and has a history with Dani, making this the perfect way to bring them together once again.
While the sordid details about the murders are shared, it doesn't in any way take away from the beauty of the relationship between Dani and Michael. Both have seen hardships in their lives, but Dani's inherent light and goodness rescue Michael from his life of self-imposed loveless isolation. Their growth throughout the story is so believable and heartwarming; I wanted to read about them long after the book ended.
As with several of Amy Harmon's other books, historical figures and events are prominent within the plot, this time the infamous Elliot Ness of Al Capone fame. I love how she weaves history and pearls of wisdom on the state of humanity into her storylines.
The Unknown Beloved is one book that needs to be on your TBR for 2022!
▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
▸ For more reviews, visit http://www.totallybex.com
April 19, 2022
The Unknown Beloved is a dual timeline historical mystery set in Chicago in 1923 and during the great depression in Cleveland in 1938.
Daniela Flanagan is ten years old when she returns home and discovers her parents are dead. Michael Malone is the young policeman assigned to the case, it’s ruled as a murder and suicide and he’s not convinced. He takes Dani to Cleveland, to live with her mother’s two elderly aunts and the only family she has left.
Fifteen years later, Michael Malone is send to Cleveland to try and solve a high profile case. His friend Eliot Ness is the director of safety, a serial killer is prowling the streets, his victims are people who are down on their luck, poor vagrants, who will not be missed and hard to identify.
By chance Michael and Dani meet again, her aunts Zuzana and Lenka rent out a room and they need the extra income. Michael Malone is the tenant, a career cop and he now works undercover. Dani and her aunts are dressmakers, they own a shop and take in piece work and do clothing repairs. Dani also cares for the indigent dead at a local mortuary and most are buried in unmarked graves.
Michael is going through evidence collected from the various locations where parts of the bodies were found and searching through police records looking for any clues they might have missed. He visits witnesses, shantytowns, bars, gambling dens, he even rides the rails as a hobo and desperate for any leads.
Dani and Michael have a connection, they develop feelings for each other and Michael tries to ignore the chemistry between them. Dani has a sixth sense, Michael discovers her talent and after a lot of thought he lets her help him, they try to locate The Butcher of Kingsbury Run and it's risky!
I received a copy of The Unknown Beloved from NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing in exchange for an honest review, the narrative was rather gory and morbid and not something I would normally read. However, Amy Harmon uses real facts about the murders, victims, Michael Malone and Eliot Ness to write a nail-biting historical murder mystery, set in Cleveland during the depression and you really get a sense of what it was like to live there at the time and with a serial killer on the loose. I'm not squeamish, this book might be too graphic for some people and four stars from me.
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Daniela Flanagan is ten years old when she returns home and discovers her parents are dead. Michael Malone is the young policeman assigned to the case, it’s ruled as a murder and suicide and he’s not convinced. He takes Dani to Cleveland, to live with her mother’s two elderly aunts and the only family she has left.
Fifteen years later, Michael Malone is send to Cleveland to try and solve a high profile case. His friend Eliot Ness is the director of safety, a serial killer is prowling the streets, his victims are people who are down on their luck, poor vagrants, who will not be missed and hard to identify.
By chance Michael and Dani meet again, her aunts Zuzana and Lenka rent out a room and they need the extra income. Michael Malone is the tenant, a career cop and he now works undercover. Dani and her aunts are dressmakers, they own a shop and take in piece work and do clothing repairs. Dani also cares for the indigent dead at a local mortuary and most are buried in unmarked graves.
Michael is going through evidence collected from the various locations where parts of the bodies were found and searching through police records looking for any clues they might have missed. He visits witnesses, shantytowns, bars, gambling dens, he even rides the rails as a hobo and desperate for any leads.
Dani and Michael have a connection, they develop feelings for each other and Michael tries to ignore the chemistry between them. Dani has a sixth sense, Michael discovers her talent and after a lot of thought he lets her help him, they try to locate The Butcher of Kingsbury Run and it's risky!
I received a copy of The Unknown Beloved from NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing in exchange for an honest review, the narrative was rather gory and morbid and not something I would normally read. However, Amy Harmon uses real facts about the murders, victims, Michael Malone and Eliot Ness to write a nail-biting historical murder mystery, set in Cleveland during the depression and you really get a sense of what it was like to live there at the time and with a serial killer on the loose. I'm not squeamish, this book might be too graphic for some people and four stars from me.
https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KarrenReadsH...
May 14, 2022
The Unknown Beloved by Amy Harmon. I had no connection with this well written, well researched book. Amy Harmon is an amazing author. This book just missed it for me. Terribly disappointed.
June 6, 2022
I can tell the author did a lot of research of the real life events went into this book, but her fictionalized version of those events didn't quite keep me as entertained as I hoped. Granted, this is about a demented serial killer, so perhaps 'entertained' isn't the right word, but you know what I mean. The novel focuses on real life Mike Malone and a fictional Dani Kos who have a shared history and who are both currently invested in a local serial killer being identified and brought to justice. Practically the entire book is focused on this search, and yet when the killer is identified, it does not come about in any way that really involves either Mike or Dani. So it's almost like, what was the point of having them involved in the case at all? I don't know, that just really frustrated me more than anything.
I've really enjoyed other books by this author, that I would recommend you read instead of this one:
Making Faces
From Sand and Ash
The Bird and the Sword
I've really enjoyed other books by this author, that I would recommend you read instead of this one:
Making Faces
From Sand and Ash
The Bird and the Sword
April 22, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an egalley in exchange for an honest review
Another author that the NetGalley platform has made me dearly love is Amy Harmon. So when I saw that The Unknown Beloved was available in the Read Now section I didn't even hesitate. The author begins the story in 1923 Chicago when ten-year-old Dani Flannagan stumbles upon the murder of her parents. That day she is shown kindness by policemen Michael Malone who makes sure the young orphan gets to the home of her mother's family in Cleveland. Fifteen years pass and Malone has been asked by Eliot Ness to assist in a murder investigation. On the day of his arrival in Cleveland, Malone soon discovers that his boarding house landlords are none other than Dani and her two great aunts. Sparks ignite between the 40-year-old hardened policemen and the 25-year-old woman with special abilities.
I did find the story enjoyable despite some of the dialogue and scenarios making me giggle here and there. I liked the two main protagonists enough to stick with the story but I wouldn't say that this would be my favourite Amy Harmon read(What the Wind Knows is the clear winner). I did find it interesting when I read the author's note that Michael Malone was as real a personage as Eliot Ness was. I do wish that Amy Harmon had told me who she was picturing as Eliot Ness when she wrote him( Robert Stack or Kevin Costner).🤣 There were parts of the plot that dragged a bit but overall I was cheering for Michael and Dani. I like the idea that they may pop up in future books.
Expected Publication Date 19/04/22
Goodreads review published 23/03/22
#TheUnknownBeloved #NetGalley
Another author that the NetGalley platform has made me dearly love is Amy Harmon. So when I saw that The Unknown Beloved was available in the Read Now section I didn't even hesitate. The author begins the story in 1923 Chicago when ten-year-old Dani Flannagan stumbles upon the murder of her parents. That day she is shown kindness by policemen Michael Malone who makes sure the young orphan gets to the home of her mother's family in Cleveland. Fifteen years pass and Malone has been asked by Eliot Ness to assist in a murder investigation. On the day of his arrival in Cleveland, Malone soon discovers that his boarding house landlords are none other than Dani and her two great aunts. Sparks ignite between the 40-year-old hardened policemen and the 25-year-old woman with special abilities.
I did find the story enjoyable despite some of the dialogue and scenarios making me giggle here and there. I liked the two main protagonists enough to stick with the story but I wouldn't say that this would be my favourite Amy Harmon read(What the Wind Knows is the clear winner). I did find it interesting when I read the author's note that Michael Malone was as real a personage as Eliot Ness was. I do wish that Amy Harmon had told me who she was picturing as Eliot Ness when she wrote him( Robert Stack or Kevin Costner).🤣 There were parts of the plot that dragged a bit but overall I was cheering for Michael and Dani. I like the idea that they may pop up in future books.
Expected Publication Date 19/04/22
Goodreads review published 23/03/22
#TheUnknownBeloved #NetGalley
September 8, 2022
The Unknown Beloved is wonderful book. I am not usually a avid reader of mystery nor thriller. I am sure if someone who is a big fan of mystery would comment other mystery author could deliver better. Since I am a big fan of Miss Harmon, I can say this is a wonderful book.
Miss Harmon used different style of writing. And yet her writing is still flawless. Her words take her readers to a detective kind of story. The romance is there. Tender, sweet and innocent. Both Michael and Dani are people with extraordinary gift and they both feel so isolated in a strange, pessimistic an judgmental world. I like how these two interact. How they fit into each other. Like a slow dance.
The Unknown Beloved certainly inspire me to read a little bit of mystery/ thriller.
5 stars
Miss Harmon used different style of writing. And yet her writing is still flawless. Her words take her readers to a detective kind of story. The romance is there. Tender, sweet and innocent. Both Michael and Dani are people with extraordinary gift and they both feel so isolated in a strange, pessimistic an judgmental world. I like how these two interact. How they fit into each other. Like a slow dance.
The Unknown Beloved certainly inspire me to read a little bit of mystery/ thriller.
5 stars
March 16, 2022
Please don’t take my rating as an indication this is not a good book. It is a very good book, well written with a great story. But it just wasn’t for me. A lot of the story is based on real people and real events. There WAS a Michael Malone who is thought to have worked with Elliot Ness in Chicago. Elliot Ness DID go to Cleveland to head up public safety. There WAS a Torso Killer or Butcher of Kingsbury Run operating in Cleveland in the 1930s. And the descriptions of the crimes echoed the real killings.
So great writing, great story and the characters were wonderfully rendered. This was a very character driven book and the author really brought them to life. Unfortunately, for me, the second half the book devolved into a love story which simply didn’t work me. I don’t read romances but sometimes it does work. In this case it didn’t because Malone was too pig headed to follow his heart. It annoys the h*ll out of me when characters don’t think they are good enough for their beloved, or their ‘duty’ gets in the way or think they are doing them some sort of favour by leaving.
No! Don’t go there! If you want to know about regret watch The Bridges of Madison County with Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. It had me in floods of tears and that simply does not happen! The other problem, for me, was that because of the romance, the story became kind of predictable. I’d never read a book by this author but I now see that she has quite quite a few books. Maybe if I’d read an earlier one I’d have had a clue.
So ignore my review and read the others by people who loved this very good story. Many thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
So great writing, great story and the characters were wonderfully rendered. This was a very character driven book and the author really brought them to life. Unfortunately, for me, the second half the book devolved into a love story which simply didn’t work me. I don’t read romances but sometimes it does work. In this case it didn’t because Malone was too pig headed to follow his heart. It annoys the h*ll out of me when characters don’t think they are good enough for their beloved, or their ‘duty’ gets in the way or think they are doing them some sort of favour by leaving.
No! Don’t go there! If you want to know about regret watch The Bridges of Madison County with Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. It had me in floods of tears and that simply does not happen! The other problem, for me, was that because of the romance, the story became kind of predictable. I’d never read a book by this author but I now see that she has quite quite a few books. Maybe if I’d read an earlier one I’d have had a clue.
So ignore my review and read the others by people who loved this very good story. Many thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
April 26, 2022
***** 5 Stars *****
I first fell in love with Amy Harmon's storytelling when I read The Bird and the Sword, which *insert gasp* 😮 was a fantasy tale.
She has such a gorgeous and unique voice, 💕 it grabs me from the start and doesn't let go.
Needless to say, this one was a page-turner.
I spent a day lost on these pages in absolute bliss.
“It is the things we most want to put down,
the things that are hardest to carry,
to endure,
that give our lives the most meaning."
I loved the historical atmosphere she created. 📽️
Age gap 25/40 💕
Secondary characters were The Bomb. 💣🥇
As for the h, I can count on the fingers of one hand, how many remarkable females lead characters I come across in one year. 🪄🔮
I can assure you that Dani Flanagan is a spectacular character.
And what to say about Michael Malone? Swoon, people! 💕💕
I first fell in love with Amy Harmon's storytelling when I read The Bird and the Sword, which *insert gasp* 😮 was a fantasy tale.
She has such a gorgeous and unique voice, 💕 it grabs me from the start and doesn't let go.
Needless to say, this one was a page-turner.
I spent a day lost on these pages in absolute bliss.
“It is the things we most want to put down,
the things that are hardest to carry,
to endure,
that give our lives the most meaning."
I loved the historical atmosphere she created. 📽️
Age gap 25/40 💕
Secondary characters were The Bomb. 💣🥇
As for the h, I can count on the fingers of one hand, how many remarkable females lead characters I come across in one year. 🪄🔮
I can assure you that Dani Flanagan is a spectacular character.
And what to say about Michael Malone? Swoon, people! 💕💕
July 1, 2022
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
February 3, 2022
Enticing . . . knocks it out of the park. In the hands of a master life-storyteller, this compelling read shows the intimate side of Michael Malone, which otherwise would've remained hidden .
The nature of reading for me is to become deeply absorbed into the created world so much so that you laugh with them, cry with them, feel the joy and grief and everything in between.
Amy Harmon is a master at it. As always her books swallowed me whole
The race to find the killer or become his next victim was pulse pounding. It kept me on tenterhooks throughout with racing heart.
“Oh goodness, we are a pair, aren’t we? I see everything and you refuse to see what is right in front of your face,”
I had to take breaks while reading it, to try to settle from the wealth of emotions this storytelling evoked and yet at the same time needed to know what came next.
The worst part of finishing an Amy Harmon book is the hangover. The journey through the story feels like a pilgrimage. Sacred and pious. And as is with all things holy, it becomes your subconcious desire to kneel in awe of her storytelling prowess.
This book is historic & historical. Her thorough research gave me an insight into a dark chapter in history, unleasing of a crime spree in Cleveland in late 30's. The era is volatile. War looms on the horizon, America is being lambasted in the world, Crime is still on the rise despite the biggest fish, AL Capone, in the net.
Not much is known about the man in shadows of Elliott Ness, the most famous Prohibition Agent, his T Men Teamer- the Elusive Michael Malone.
"Michael Malone was, I believe, the greatest undercover agent in the history of law enforcement," said Paul Camacho, a former head of IRS criminal investigations in Las Vegas and an unofficial agency historian. "This was the riskiest assignment you could ever think of. People were dying left and right, witnesses were dying left and right. Nobody wanted to be with these guys."
Malone infiltrated Capone's gang and worked undercover for nearly three years, Camacho said, passing himself off as a wiseguy from Philadelphia who had migrated to Chicago. He gained the mobster's trust to the point that he was invited to a going away party when it appeared Capone"
He meets 10 year old Dani Flanagan when her parents die in Chicago, then a decade and a half later in Cleveland.
Dani inadvertently ends up helping him in search of the serial killer terrorizing Cleveland, Mad Butcher Of Kingsbury Run
The fact that he's subtle operative with incomprehensible intents and purposes, helps him blend in the background. His proclivity for accents gives him a chameleon skin and he can infiltrate any place with relative ease
ALL that shatters, all his facades smash and his inner soul lies bare & naked in presence of Dani. She can peer right inside his heart and mind, reading his thoughts and feelings.
I've never felt so much love for a heroine before. She just hypnotized me with her mismatched eyes full of compassion and generosity. Sometimes to the point of martyrdom. I wish she was a real person and I could meet her.
"You're like an ancient Oracle"
The forbidden couple's fate seems doomed yet kismet keeps throwing them together for a reason.
To hold hands on an emotional journey in the midst of murder and danger lurking at every corner. The patience and tenderness Amy has intsilled in the characters is remarkable.
Amy is a formidable story teller. She transports you into the era with her brilliant writing & a well researched plot. The whole city, it's landmarks, the chronology of events, historical figures and personalities are authentic. What Amy adds is an extra dimension of emotions.
Rigorous & Intimate, Amy has succeeded in giving the real ‘Mike’ the literary legacy his life
& story he richly deserves.
5 Glorious Stars for The Undertaker and The Spy
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The nature of reading for me is to become deeply absorbed into the created world so much so that you laugh with them, cry with them, feel the joy and grief and everything in between.
Amy Harmon is a master at it. As always her books swallowed me whole
The race to find the killer or become his next victim was pulse pounding. It kept me on tenterhooks throughout with racing heart.
“Oh goodness, we are a pair, aren’t we? I see everything and you refuse to see what is right in front of your face,”
I had to take breaks while reading it, to try to settle from the wealth of emotions this storytelling evoked and yet at the same time needed to know what came next.
The worst part of finishing an Amy Harmon book is the hangover. The journey through the story feels like a pilgrimage. Sacred and pious. And as is with all things holy, it becomes your subconcious desire to kneel in awe of her storytelling prowess.
This book is historic & historical. Her thorough research gave me an insight into a dark chapter in history, unleasing of a crime spree in Cleveland in late 30's. The era is volatile. War looms on the horizon, America is being lambasted in the world, Crime is still on the rise despite the biggest fish, AL Capone, in the net.
Not much is known about the man in shadows of Elliott Ness, the most famous Prohibition Agent, his T Men Teamer- the Elusive Michael Malone.
"Michael Malone was, I believe, the greatest undercover agent in the history of law enforcement," said Paul Camacho, a former head of IRS criminal investigations in Las Vegas and an unofficial agency historian. "This was the riskiest assignment you could ever think of. People were dying left and right, witnesses were dying left and right. Nobody wanted to be with these guys."
Malone infiltrated Capone's gang and worked undercover for nearly three years, Camacho said, passing himself off as a wiseguy from Philadelphia who had migrated to Chicago. He gained the mobster's trust to the point that he was invited to a going away party when it appeared Capone"
He meets 10 year old Dani Flanagan when her parents die in Chicago, then a decade and a half later in Cleveland.
Dani inadvertently ends up helping him in search of the serial killer terrorizing Cleveland, Mad Butcher Of Kingsbury Run
The fact that he's subtle operative with incomprehensible intents and purposes, helps him blend in the background. His proclivity for accents gives him a chameleon skin and he can infiltrate any place with relative ease
ALL that shatters, all his facades smash and his inner soul lies bare & naked in presence of Dani. She can peer right inside his heart and mind, reading his thoughts and feelings.
I've never felt so much love for a heroine before. She just hypnotized me with her mismatched eyes full of compassion and generosity. Sometimes to the point of martyrdom. I wish she was a real person and I could meet her.
"You're like an ancient Oracle"
The forbidden couple's fate seems doomed yet kismet keeps throwing them together for a reason.
To hold hands on an emotional journey in the midst of murder and danger lurking at every corner. The patience and tenderness Amy has intsilled in the characters is remarkable.
Amy is a formidable story teller. She transports you into the era with her brilliant writing & a well researched plot. The whole city, it's landmarks, the chronology of events, historical figures and personalities are authentic. What Amy adds is an extra dimension of emotions.
Rigorous & Intimate, Amy has succeeded in giving the real ‘Mike’ the literary legacy his life
& story he richly deserves.
5 Glorious Stars for The Undertaker and The Spy
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
March 25, 2025
March 25, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 31, 2024
Still love it the 3rd time around. What man, that Michael Malone. Happy reading!
February 20, 2022
5 "Dani and Michael" Stars!
First of all, I have to tell you, in my opinion, Amy Harmon is one of the best writers of our time and she doesn't get the recognition she deserves. This lady writes a love story- in varying generas like no other. And I may be oversimplifying by simply calling them love stories. There hasn't been one book I've read by Amy Harmon that I didn't come away deeply moved and changed in some way. Her stories are unforgettable.
This time, Ms. Harmon has gifted us with a Historical fiction, true crime, slow burn, age gap romance with the perfect paranormal element that took this story from good to phenomenal. I do love the paranormal.
Set in the 1930s during the time of Elliot Ness, there's a serial killer on the loose in Cleveland, OH targeting the indigent, the lost, the unknown. When Michael Malone goes to Cleveland to investigate the murders, he immediately comes in contact with Dani, a young lady he met 15 years ago when he was a patrolman experiencing his own tragic loss, and 10 year old Dani's parents had just died. Michael never forgot about the special and very unusual little girl. Dani never forgot about the police officer that was kind and escorted her to her new home.
I could go on, but I really don't want to give anything away. No spoilers here! This story was vivid and lyrically written. Michael was stubborn and reserved and resistant. Dani was stubborn and persistent, and the kindest soul. I loved them both so much. These two were special. There was so much more to this story than I can explain in this review. I would just recommend you read it, so you can experience it for yourself.
I cannot wait for the audiobook release so I can be immersed all over again. This will be one I revisit over and over. Happy reading!
Update 4/25/22- The audiobook is FANTASTIC!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 31, 2024
Still love it the 3rd time around. What man, that Michael Malone. Happy reading!
February 20, 2022
5 "Dani and Michael" Stars!
First of all, I have to tell you, in my opinion, Amy Harmon is one of the best writers of our time and she doesn't get the recognition she deserves. This lady writes a love story- in varying generas like no other. And I may be oversimplifying by simply calling them love stories. There hasn't been one book I've read by Amy Harmon that I didn't come away deeply moved and changed in some way. Her stories are unforgettable.
This time, Ms. Harmon has gifted us with a Historical fiction, true crime, slow burn, age gap romance with the perfect paranormal element that took this story from good to phenomenal. I do love the paranormal.
Set in the 1930s during the time of Elliot Ness, there's a serial killer on the loose in Cleveland, OH targeting the indigent, the lost, the unknown. When Michael Malone goes to Cleveland to investigate the murders, he immediately comes in contact with Dani, a young lady he met 15 years ago when he was a patrolman experiencing his own tragic loss, and 10 year old Dani's parents had just died. Michael never forgot about the special and very unusual little girl. Dani never forgot about the police officer that was kind and escorted her to her new home.
I could go on, but I really don't want to give anything away. No spoilers here! This story was vivid and lyrically written. Michael was stubborn and reserved and resistant. Dani was stubborn and persistent, and the kindest soul. I loved them both so much. These two were special. There was so much more to this story than I can explain in this review. I would just recommend you read it, so you can experience it for yourself.
I cannot wait for the audiobook release so I can be immersed all over again. This will be one I revisit over and over. Happy reading!
Update 4/25/22- The audiobook is FANTASTIC!!
March 16, 2022
4.5 old-fashioned stars
This continues to be a winning author for me! This is only my third book of hers, but I am reminded how much I like her writing style. She brings to life people from the past and builds a compelling story. I found this one easy to read and I got completely drawn into the story.
This time we start in Chicago in 1923 and witness the horrible loss of Dani Flanagan’s parents. She’s just 10 and moves to Cleveland to live with her aunts. There’s a young policeman, Michael Malone, who takes care of Dani in the aftermath.
Jump forward 15 years and Dani and Malone come face-t0-face again in Cleveland. Malone has just finished an undercover stint in Chicago working to bring down Al Capone with Eliot Ness. The author does an excellent job of creating the right atmosphere in this book. Describing the well-dressed Eliot and Malone, I could just picture them in their suits, ties, and hats.
As you might expect, Malone needed to get out of Chicago and Eliot Ness brings him to Cleveland to work on the Torso Murders (true case!) as they can’t seem to catch the killer who leaves his gruesome work behind, taunting the police and Eliot Ness in particular. It was fascinating to read about this early detective work and the author gives us important details about how clothing, accents, and demeanor all play a part in successfully going undercover.
Dani and her aunts are seamstresses, but work is slow during this time. I really enjoyed these female characters. Again, the author puts us in the city of Cleveland with shantytowns, soup lines, hobos on trains, and criminal activity!
Dani has a unique skill that Malone discovers and eventually he lets her help with the case. The two develop a realistic romantic relationship that deepens as they work the case to stop a serial killer. I rooted for them as a couple but wasn't sure how it could work when he finished the case.
It was fascinating to do a bit of research after reading this book to learn more about Michael Malone (he’s real) and Eliot Ness. I can’t wait to visit the Mob Museum in Las Vegas again now that I know more about Michael Malone.
This made for a terrific buddy read with Marilyn and Pat, be sure to read their reviews to see how they liked the book.
Thank you to Lake Union for the chance to read and honestly review this one. Scheduled to release 4.19.2022.
This continues to be a winning author for me! This is only my third book of hers, but I am reminded how much I like her writing style. She brings to life people from the past and builds a compelling story. I found this one easy to read and I got completely drawn into the story.
This time we start in Chicago in 1923 and witness the horrible loss of Dani Flanagan’s parents. She’s just 10 and moves to Cleveland to live with her aunts. There’s a young policeman, Michael Malone, who takes care of Dani in the aftermath.
Jump forward 15 years and Dani and Malone come face-t0-face again in Cleveland. Malone has just finished an undercover stint in Chicago working to bring down Al Capone with Eliot Ness. The author does an excellent job of creating the right atmosphere in this book. Describing the well-dressed Eliot and Malone, I could just picture them in their suits, ties, and hats.
As you might expect, Malone needed to get out of Chicago and Eliot Ness brings him to Cleveland to work on the Torso Murders (true case!) as they can’t seem to catch the killer who leaves his gruesome work behind, taunting the police and Eliot Ness in particular. It was fascinating to read about this early detective work and the author gives us important details about how clothing, accents, and demeanor all play a part in successfully going undercover.
Dani and her aunts are seamstresses, but work is slow during this time. I really enjoyed these female characters. Again, the author puts us in the city of Cleveland with shantytowns, soup lines, hobos on trains, and criminal activity!
Dani has a unique skill that Malone discovers and eventually he lets her help with the case. The two develop a realistic romantic relationship that deepens as they work the case to stop a serial killer. I rooted for them as a couple but wasn't sure how it could work when he finished the case.
It was fascinating to do a bit of research after reading this book to learn more about Michael Malone (he’s real) and Eliot Ness. I can’t wait to visit the Mob Museum in Las Vegas again now that I know more about Michael Malone.
This made for a terrific buddy read with Marilyn and Pat, be sure to read their reviews to see how they liked the book.
Thank you to Lake Union for the chance to read and honestly review this one. Scheduled to release 4.19.2022.
April 30, 2022
4.5. Mike and Dani stars ...
I hadn't realised this book was based on true events - yes, I have heard of the film "The Untouchables" but not heard of Eliot Ness, who is one of the characters in this book. Set in Cleaveland, portrayed as a grim place but, then again, after the Depression in the United States, I am sure many cities were grim places - poverty abounded. Dani and her aunts live a quiet life ... but that changes when Mr. Michael Malone comes to stay. I loved Michael (good Irishman - why wouldn't I? I loved Dani too).
I started reading the book but then downloaded the audible as I was out and about and wanted to keep listening - the narrator is excellent (Rob Shapiro) - he really brought the characters to life for me, especially Michael.
My review is a bit vague, I know. Sign of a good book for me if I cannot stop reading and I finished this one in record time ... well, "record time" going by my reading this year. Less than a week.
I hadn't realised this book was based on true events - yes, I have heard of the film "The Untouchables" but not heard of Eliot Ness, who is one of the characters in this book. Set in Cleaveland, portrayed as a grim place but, then again, after the Depression in the United States, I am sure many cities were grim places - poverty abounded. Dani and her aunts live a quiet life ... but that changes when Mr. Michael Malone comes to stay. I loved Michael (good Irishman - why wouldn't I? I loved Dani too).
I started reading the book but then downloaded the audible as I was out and about and wanted to keep listening - the narrator is excellent (Rob Shapiro) - he really brought the characters to life for me, especially Michael.
My review is a bit vague, I know. Sign of a good book for me if I cannot stop reading and I finished this one in record time ... well, "record time" going by my reading this year. Less than a week.
April 14, 2022
Publication Date: 19th April 2022
3.8 Stars
One Liner: A few hits and misses; mixed feelings
Chicago, 1923: Dani Flanagan comes home to find her parents dead and police handling the crime scene. It’s her tenth birthday the next day, and Dani is overwhelmed by the loss of her parents. A young beat constable, Michael Malone, is assigned to take care of her and keep her away from the scene.
Cleveland, 1938: Twenty-five years later, Dani is living with her aunts (her mother’s sisters). They are a family of seamstresses with royal connections. But the tough times have made it hard for everyone, including them. People are scraping by, and things would have been better if not for a mysterious Torso Murderer or The Butcher on loose.
It seems that the Butcher likes to kill people at random and chop them into neat pieces. Eliot Ness is on the case but with not much progress. When Malone goes to Cleveland on personal business, Ness convinces him to stay back and help solve the case.
Malone and Dani’s paths soon cross. Malone is attracted to Dani and her unexplainable connection with fabrics. He can’t help but notice that she is now a beautiful young woman with many talents. With the Butcher still hacking his victims, Malone takes Dani’s help to solve the case.
Will the duo be able to find the killer, or will they end up as victims? What does the future hold for Dani and Malone?
What I Liked:
• The book seamlessly blends history and fiction. Ness, David Cowles, Fronek, Dr. Edward Peterka, Al Capone, Mysterious Mike (our Malone), and a few other characters are real people. The Torso Murder is a true crime that was never solved despite so many people working on it for months.
• The characters are well-etched, no matter how small their role is. Derby is one such example. The setting, too, is clear and easy to visualize.
• Dani’s psychic talent has been beautifully presented. I loved the scenes where she 'feels' the clothes to read more about the people who wore them.
• The romance between Dani and Malone progresses over time and doesn’t feel rushed. The vibes of reading a historical romance are apparent. Despite the age difference, the romance works very well.
What Didn’t Work for Me:
The book is slow… I mean, very slow. It feels like placing one foot in front of another and taking baby steps toward a far away ending. I finished it in 4 days because I speed-read more than half of it.
It’s not until 50% that things start to make little sense. Moreover, the murders (and bodies) are described in detail. That wasn’t a problem for me. I’m used to it, and the tone is a matter of fact. However, sensitive readers might have a hard time reading about so many hacked bodies as the list goes on and on.
The climax might feel a little disappointing for those who aren’t aware of the real story. The author did take a few liberties to provide a satisfying ending, but she still had to stay true to the details. Reading about the Torso Murders will prepare the readers to understand the ending. It fits if you know what happened. The author’s note is detailed and helps to a great extent. Since it comes after the book ends, better be prepared in advance.
Some reviews ask readers not to read about the actual crime before starting the book. That’s a valid point if you want to focus on the mystery element. The suspense keeps you hooked but only if you aren’t put off by the slow pace. You’ll have to decide based on how you feel after reading the first 40%. That’s what I did.
To sum up, The Unknown Beloved is a good book with interesting elements but fails to work its magic on me. It leaves me with mixed feelings.
Thank you, NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#NetGalley #TheUnknownBeloved
PS: I love the details on the cover. They make more sense after reading the book.
3.8 Stars
One Liner: A few hits and misses; mixed feelings
Chicago, 1923: Dani Flanagan comes home to find her parents dead and police handling the crime scene. It’s her tenth birthday the next day, and Dani is overwhelmed by the loss of her parents. A young beat constable, Michael Malone, is assigned to take care of her and keep her away from the scene.
Cleveland, 1938: Twenty-five years later, Dani is living with her aunts (her mother’s sisters). They are a family of seamstresses with royal connections. But the tough times have made it hard for everyone, including them. People are scraping by, and things would have been better if not for a mysterious Torso Murderer or The Butcher on loose.
It seems that the Butcher likes to kill people at random and chop them into neat pieces. Eliot Ness is on the case but with not much progress. When Malone goes to Cleveland on personal business, Ness convinces him to stay back and help solve the case.
Malone and Dani’s paths soon cross. Malone is attracted to Dani and her unexplainable connection with fabrics. He can’t help but notice that she is now a beautiful young woman with many talents. With the Butcher still hacking his victims, Malone takes Dani’s help to solve the case.
Will the duo be able to find the killer, or will they end up as victims? What does the future hold for Dani and Malone?
What I Liked:
• The book seamlessly blends history and fiction. Ness, David Cowles, Fronek, Dr. Edward Peterka, Al Capone, Mysterious Mike (our Malone), and a few other characters are real people. The Torso Murder is a true crime that was never solved despite so many people working on it for months.
• The characters are well-etched, no matter how small their role is. Derby is one such example. The setting, too, is clear and easy to visualize.
• Dani’s psychic talent has been beautifully presented. I loved the scenes where she 'feels' the clothes to read more about the people who wore them.
• The romance between Dani and Malone progresses over time and doesn’t feel rushed. The vibes of reading a historical romance are apparent. Despite the age difference, the romance works very well.
What Didn’t Work for Me:
The book is slow… I mean, very slow. It feels like placing one foot in front of another and taking baby steps toward a far away ending. I finished it in 4 days because I speed-read more than half of it.
It’s not until 50% that things start to make little sense. Moreover, the murders (and bodies) are described in detail. That wasn’t a problem for me. I’m used to it, and the tone is a matter of fact. However, sensitive readers might have a hard time reading about so many hacked bodies as the list goes on and on.
The climax might feel a little disappointing for those who aren’t aware of the real story. The author did take a few liberties to provide a satisfying ending, but she still had to stay true to the details. Reading about the Torso Murders will prepare the readers to understand the ending. It fits if you know what happened. The author’s note is detailed and helps to a great extent. Since it comes after the book ends, better be prepared in advance.
Some reviews ask readers not to read about the actual crime before starting the book. That’s a valid point if you want to focus on the mystery element. The suspense keeps you hooked but only if you aren’t put off by the slow pace. You’ll have to decide based on how you feel after reading the first 40%. That’s what I did.
To sum up, The Unknown Beloved is a good book with interesting elements but fails to work its magic on me. It leaves me with mixed feelings.
Thank you, NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#NetGalley #TheUnknownBeloved
PS: I love the details on the cover. They make more sense after reading the book.
April 20, 2022
Amy writes books you simultaneously want to slowly sink into but also devour. She writes with such intent and purpose its like magic every time I pick one up.
The Unknown Beloved is set in Cleveland in the 1930's...a time where serial killers and and gangsters are running rampant. When one killer in particular leaves cops stumped, Michael Malone is relocated to the area to see if he can shed some light. There, he meets a woman that he has crossed paths with some 15 years ago.
This book is historically gritty, romantic, and slightly supernatural. It is for those who enjoy a true crime element and a story that hasn't been done before. Amy writes in every genre but what IS consistent is her careful curating of plot and unique characters who are just so special. She pulls history straight from the books and wraps them in a tale where you can't tell what is fiction and what isn't...that's how immersive this story is.
This is a romance between two socially isolated characters...each damaged from past experiences, who find unexpected solace in one another. It is a 15 year age gap romance that is OH SO GOOD. It is natural and organic and full of emotion and heart. Its the type of romance you want to go back and re read all of your favorite parts. Tiny moments that are so understated just might be the most romantic of them all. It is so good...that I am STILL not over it, nor do I expect to be anytime soon.
When I say that it has true crime elements, rest assured that this book not only romanced me but kept me up at night. The serial killer aspect is mysterious, and eerie and disturbing as all killers tend to be.
This book will hook you from page one and have you racing to the finish. I couldn't get enough of Dani, Malone and this era and I hope you won't either!
The Unknown Beloved is set in Cleveland in the 1930's...a time where serial killers and and gangsters are running rampant. When one killer in particular leaves cops stumped, Michael Malone is relocated to the area to see if he can shed some light. There, he meets a woman that he has crossed paths with some 15 years ago.
This book is historically gritty, romantic, and slightly supernatural. It is for those who enjoy a true crime element and a story that hasn't been done before. Amy writes in every genre but what IS consistent is her careful curating of plot and unique characters who are just so special. She pulls history straight from the books and wraps them in a tale where you can't tell what is fiction and what isn't...that's how immersive this story is.
This is a romance between two socially isolated characters...each damaged from past experiences, who find unexpected solace in one another. It is a 15 year age gap romance that is OH SO GOOD. It is natural and organic and full of emotion and heart. Its the type of romance you want to go back and re read all of your favorite parts. Tiny moments that are so understated just might be the most romantic of them all. It is so good...that I am STILL not over it, nor do I expect to be anytime soon.
When I say that it has true crime elements, rest assured that this book not only romanced me but kept me up at night. The serial killer aspect is mysterious, and eerie and disturbing as all killers tend to be.
This book will hook you from page one and have you racing to the finish. I couldn't get enough of Dani, Malone and this era and I hope you won't either!
January 3, 2025
This was such a wonderful book from one of my favorite authors! This historical fiction novel was written with several nonfiction characters, the most familiar being Eliot Ness. The setting of the story is Cleveland, soon after the end of prohibition and the fall of Al Capone. The book takes the reader on a captivating journey, which includes the search for an illusive serial killer. But at the heart of THE UNKNOWN BELOVED is a poignant story of love, loss, second chances, and the hope tomorrow can bring.
The characters are brilliantly written, characters you grow to love and become completely invested in. But as is the case with every Amy Harmon novel for me, as I get closer to the end, I find myself slowing down, because I can’t bring myself to leave the story or, more specifically, the characters behind. That was Michael Malone and Dani Flanagan for me. I’m going to miss them.
Amy Harmon’s stories are profound and her words poetic. She remains one of my favorite authors because her books touch me in ways I can’t fully explain and stay with me long after I turn the final page. As I read THE UNKNOWN BELOVED, I got utterly and completely lost in its pages. I was filled me with so many emotions — joy, sadness, fear, anger, despair, gratitude, love— but most of all, hope! For me, Amy Harmon’s books are like magic, making the pressures of everyday life disappear, at least for a little while. If you haven’t read one of her books yet, please change that. Immediately!! You won’t regret it, not for a second!
The characters are brilliantly written, characters you grow to love and become completely invested in. But as is the case with every Amy Harmon novel for me, as I get closer to the end, I find myself slowing down, because I can’t bring myself to leave the story or, more specifically, the characters behind. That was Michael Malone and Dani Flanagan for me. I’m going to miss them.
Amy Harmon’s stories are profound and her words poetic. She remains one of my favorite authors because her books touch me in ways I can’t fully explain and stay with me long after I turn the final page. As I read THE UNKNOWN BELOVED, I got utterly and completely lost in its pages. I was filled me with so many emotions — joy, sadness, fear, anger, despair, gratitude, love— but most of all, hope! For me, Amy Harmon’s books are like magic, making the pressures of everyday life disappear, at least for a little while. If you haven’t read one of her books yet, please change that. Immediately!! You won’t regret it, not for a second!
January 13, 2023
3.75 Stars
The sight of Agent Michael Malone literally sobbing from heartbreak is going to live rent free in my head for the rest of my life. 😭♥ This was such a beautiful, captivating historical, thriller romance—with a tiny bit of magical realism/paranormal element (considering the FMC’s, Dani Flanagan, ability to see people’s pasts by touching their things/anything made of fabric). I didn’t know that some of the events and characters were based on real historical figures and moments.
This book is about Michael investigating serial murders in Dani’s hometown, and the two of them forming reluctant friendship before eventually, inescapably, and irrevocably fall in love with each other. I will say that this book focuses more on the mystery aspect of the story, but the romance is such a slow burn (even though it has no steam and not explicit in any way). It’s the kind of love that’s sweet, tender, profound, and quietly seeps into you and takes residence in your heart.
I admired Dani’s (25 yo) compassion and her sense of duty/responsibility for her family. She just gets things done. I loved how forward and honest she was with her feelings for Michael (40 yo) even though she was FIFTEEN years younger and quite inexperienced. Meanwhile, Michael was the hard and cold type. After a tragedy, his life became all about work. He definitely considered Dani to be better off without him, but I loved seeing his admiration for Dani and his protectiveness over her.
They had a peculiar friendship/love story. Not only because of their age and personality difference, but because most of their ‘dates’ happened in a funeral home full of corpses LOL. I truly enjoyed seeing them sneak and sleuth around trying to solve the crime (which was rather gory, graphic, and disturbing), but I wish they’d teamed up sooner cause I feel like the beginning really dragged. I’m also frankly disappointed that the perpetrator turned out to be a with problems. I was hoping for a more logical, shocking, depraved, and wicked explanation.
(Read as an Audiobook)
The sight of Agent Michael Malone literally sobbing from heartbreak is going to live rent free in my head for the rest of my life. 😭♥ This was such a beautiful, captivating historical, thriller romance—with a tiny bit of magical realism/paranormal element (considering the FMC’s, Dani Flanagan, ability to see people’s pasts by touching their things/anything made of fabric). I didn’t know that some of the events and characters were based on real historical figures and moments.
This book is about Michael investigating serial murders in Dani’s hometown, and the two of them forming reluctant friendship before eventually, inescapably, and irrevocably fall in love with each other. I will say that this book focuses more on the mystery aspect of the story, but the romance is such a slow burn (even though it has no steam and not explicit in any way). It’s the kind of love that’s sweet, tender, profound, and quietly seeps into you and takes residence in your heart.
I admired Dani’s (25 yo) compassion and her sense of duty/responsibility for her family. She just gets things done. I loved how forward and honest she was with her feelings for Michael (40 yo) even though she was FIFTEEN years younger and quite inexperienced. Meanwhile, Michael was the hard and cold type. After a tragedy, his life became all about work. He definitely considered Dani to be better off without him, but I loved seeing his admiration for Dani and his protectiveness over her.
They had a peculiar friendship/love story. Not only because of their age and personality difference, but because most of their ‘dates’ happened in a funeral home full of corpses LOL. I truly enjoyed seeing them sneak and sleuth around trying to solve the crime (which was rather gory, graphic, and disturbing), but I wish they’d teamed up sooner cause I feel like the beginning really dragged. I’m also frankly disappointed that the perpetrator turned out to be a with problems. I was hoping for a more logical, shocking, depraved, and wicked explanation.
(Read as an Audiobook)
April 6, 2022
Genre: Historical Mystery
Type: Standalone
POV: Third person
Rating:
Michael Malone lived his life the way it currently demands. As a government agent, his job required anonymity and discretion. His latest job took him to Cleveland, in the heart of a high-profile investigation and the woman of his past, Daniela (Dani) Flanagan. The situation pulled them deeper the way neither of them expected.
I started this one blind and was pleasantly surprised by the storyline. I enjoyed the mystery aspect and how the author weaved facts and fiction into the story.
I loved both the main characters, and the supporting characters added heart and amusement. Michael was methodical and detached, while Dani was direct and sassy without being pushy. My favorite aspect of this book was the sentiment in Dani’s particular action and to a degree, the villain’s as well.
The Unknown Beloved is a story of unraveling the truth. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a depression-era Historical Mystery with a splash of Romance.
♦️✂️♦️. . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC & Loyda . . .♦️✂️♦️
For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: Third person
Rating:
Michael Malone lived his life the way it currently demands. As a government agent, his job required anonymity and discretion. His latest job took him to Cleveland, in the heart of a high-profile investigation and the woman of his past, Daniela (Dani) Flanagan. The situation pulled them deeper the way neither of them expected.
I started this one blind and was pleasantly surprised by the storyline. I enjoyed the mystery aspect and how the author weaved facts and fiction into the story.
“The truth is, the harder we are, the easier we shatter. It takes some softness to absorb life’s blows.”
I loved both the main characters, and the supporting characters added heart and amusement. Michael was methodical and detached, while Dani was direct and sassy without being pushy. My favorite aspect of this book was the sentiment in Dani’s particular action and to a degree, the villain’s as well.
The Unknown Beloved is a story of unraveling the truth. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a depression-era Historical Mystery with a splash of Romance.
♦️✂️♦️. . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC & Loyda . . .♦️✂️♦️
For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:
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