1950s, historical-fiction, historical-figures, historical-research, historical-setting, history-and-culture, cozy-mystery, espionage, murder, amateur-sleuth, local-law-enforcement, first-in-series, new-series, famous-persons, danger, suspense*****

This story is from a different perspective than the series by Elliot Roosevelt in that it is primarily here in the states and the focus is mainly on her young temporary secretary who seems more into fashion and the attitude of the day which focuses on husband-hunting. It is similar in that Eleanor drives her own investigation, and there is the interspersing of well-known historical figures. The research is thorough and quotes are credited.
The story is smooth and stays interesting throughout with surprising twists and inventive red herrings. Really looking forward to more in this series!
I requested and received a temporary advance uncorrected reader's proof compliments of publisher Kensington Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you
Avail Jan 21, 2025 #EleanorandtheColdWar by Ellen Yardley #EleanorRooseveltMysteriesBk1 #NetGalley @KensingtonBooks #NetGalley #HistoricalCozy

Eleanor and the Cold War
by Ellen Yardley is a great historical fiction cozy mystery that is the first book in a new series: An Eleanor Roosevelt Mystery.

This was such fun. I love starting new series as much as catching up with old friends in long-standing series. I also like historical fiction if done well. I was at first unsure if I could handle another post- WWII-era theme, but I am glad I gave this a go.

The 1950s in the US was every bit as dramatic as the decades beforehand, albeit in a different way. I enjoyed the way the author was able to meld fact and fiction, and to create a nice mystery to go along with it. There is room for character growth and further plots stemming from this gem.

Definitely recommend.

4.5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing | Kensington for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/21/25.

This was truly an 'era' book. It took a few minutes for the language and pace of the book to be comfortable. In todays world we all seem to want to get to the point quickly. Once I got into the pace and language nuances of the time period, I enjoyed the journey. The characters were well established and seeing the growth of the main character Kay as she was exposed to a larger world was fun. Even though fictional, peeking into the early, youthful lives of American icons such as JFK, Jackie and a few others was quite enlightening.

I can't wait for the next book in the series. MR (Mrs. Roosevelt) was handled with care, and tedious research. Although, this modern reader wanted to give them a cell phone sooooo badly! LOL

If you enjoy historical mysteries that are very true to period, you will absolutely want to read Eleanor and The Cold War.

This fine debut hit my sweet spot, with its spectacular cover, Hitchcock-like tale, and a can't figure it out hist-mystery featuring former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and her assistant in 1951's New York and D.C. Series, please!