Beyond the Clouds

About the Book

 They lost each other once before; now the clouds of war may give them a second chance.

As teenagers, Delia Byrne and Finn Delaney fell in love while flying kites and dreaming of a future together--until betrayal tore them apart. Now, as America enters World War I, Delia works for peace as a paralegal and pacifist. Her values forbid her from supporting the war effort, but she volunteers for a relief organization trying to save millions of lives in famine-stricken Belgium.

Returning to America as a decorated war hero, Finn is eager to get back to the front but is assigned to use his fame to raise funds instead. Little does he know that this mission will bring him face-to-face with Delia, the only woman he ever loved and once hoped to marry. As their shared mission draws them together, old sparks of romance begin to stir--until duty sends them behind enemy lines in occupied Belgium. Will the greatest danger be the conflict raging around them--or the possibility of falling in love again? (Goodreads)

Purchase Here

My Thoughts

I was not quite sure what to expect with this book or where it would take the reader. All of the books that are in this series are very unique. Delia is a spunky heroine that I needed to warm up to a bit before really appreciating her character. Finn is a loyal and caring person who will do most anything to protect innocent people. I really loved reading his war back story and I thought it added a lot to the plot. The first part of the book is more lighthearted. The war seems far away and Delia and Finn do NOT see eye to eye, yet there is some banter. Delia is a pacifist and Finn is clearly not since he is war hero. It was intriguing to read from the view of a pacifist and I was glad to read that perspective. About half way through the book I was a little perplexed at how certain things suddenly were resolved. It felt very sudden and it took me out of the story a little bit. I can't go into detail without spoilers. But then the second part of the book read much differently with added drama and Finn wanting to be the hero. It has a satisfying ending and it was a little bittersweet to say farewell to these characters. So overall I did enjoy this story but I have to give it four stars because it was a little choppy in the middle and I struggled with that. I am eager to read Camden's next book and I do recommend this series. 

Four Stars. 

"I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions are my own." 

When The Stars Light the Sky Review

About the Book

 Inga Klein's carefree life in New York takes a dramatic turn when she sails for Berlin, Germany, to serve as the secretary for America's ambassador. Amid the glamour of life at the embassy, she continually finds herself at odds with the straitlaced and imposing Benedict Kincaid, the diplomatic chief of staff who harbors deep misgivings toward the German-born Inga.

As Europe hurtles toward World War I, Benedict's determination to keep America out of the conflict adds to the already tense atmosphere. Despite their relentless sparring, Inga and Benedict succeed in keeping the embassy afloat through one crisis after another. But when they run out of diplomatic options, a marriage of convenience between them may be Inga's only hope of escape from the impending war.

In this entrancing Gilded Age romance, Inga and Benedict will be swept into a dangerous world on the brink of war, where two hearts must navigate shadows of uncertainty when stars light the sky. (Goodreads)

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My Thoughts

I am always eager to read the new Camden book and was intrigued by the premise of this story. I know very little of WWI and I haven't read too many books set amid that war. I absolutely love the historical aspect of this book. This author does a tremendous job at explaining history without it being confusing or boring. There are so many details about the American Embassy and the setting of Berlin and I loved reading every bit of it! The secondary characters are delightful and so well written. The reader experiences many years between the pages and is able to really get to know the characters. Inga and Benedict are unique and very much a grumpy sunshine trope. The last few chapters disappointed me a little bit on the romance side of things. Relationships require a lot of selfless love and I have mixed feelings on how all of that plays out in the end. Regardless, I could not put down this book and having read all of Camden's novels I would say this one is one of the most intriguing! 

Four and a half stars. 

"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Hearts of Steel Review

  

 

 

About the Book

Maggie Molinaro survived a hardscrabble childhood in the downtrodden streets of Manhattan to become a successful businesswoman. After a decade of sacrifice, she now owns a celebrated ice cream company, but when she offends a corrupt banker, she unwittingly sets off a series of calamities that threaten to destroy her life's work.

Liam Blackstone is a charismatic steel magnate committed to overhauling factory conditions for the steelworkers of America. Standing in his way is the same villain determined to ruin Maggie. What begins as a practical alliance to defeat a common enemy soon evolves into a romance between two wounded people determined to beat the odds.

A spiraling circle of treachery grows increasingly dangerous as Liam and Maggie risk their lives and fortune for the good of the city. It will require all their wit and ingenuity to navigate the dangerous waters ahead, but their crusade could cost them everything. (Goodreads)

 

BUY HERE

 

My Thoughts

 

Elizabeth Camden has once again taken me on adventure I won't soon forget! This is the conclusion of  The Blackstone Legacy Trilogy. If you haven't read the first two books I do highly recommend it because it gives a better backstory on how Liam got to where he is in this book. While I loved all of these books, I think this one might be my favorite. Liam's character is one that is easy to relate with and Maggie is just a great heroine. Maggie is a strong opinionated woman who can stand her ground and I really appreciated her subtle change and growth throughout the story. Camden really does her research so the history is so very interesting. I had no idea nor had I ever considered where businesses would have gotten their ice in 1902 New York City. I never thought about how important it would have been or difficult to keep things cold at that time. Considering Maggie runs an ice cream factory it became a central part of the plot. There are so many little historical details peppered throughout the book and I gleefully took it all in. I do wish that the epilogue was a tad longer and talked more about the other siblings in the family but it still wrapped up the trilogy nicely.

I highly recommend! 

Five Stars.

"I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

 

 

 

 

 

Written on the Wind Review

 

 About the Book

Natalia Blackstone is a rarity in Gilded Age America. As a trusted analyst for her father's bank, she is helping finance the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway. From her office in New York City, Natalia relies on a charming Russian aristocrat to oversee the construction of the railroad on the other side of the world.

But while overseeing the work, Count Dimitri Sokolov witnesses the deadly result of the Russian Monarchy's will to see the railway built. To silence him, the state has stripped Dimitri of his title, his lands, and his freedom . . . but Dimitri has a key asset the czar knows nothing about: his deep and abiding friendship with Natalia Blackstone.

From the steppes of Russia to the corridors of power in Washington, Natalia and Dimitri will fight against all odds to save the railroad and share the truth of what happened, but how can their newfound love survive the ordeal? (Goodreads)

BUY HERE

My Thoughts

Elizabeth Camden has written some of my all-time favorite novels. This is book two in a series and while it can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading book one first. This story takes you on an adventure across the globe from New York City to Russia. I love Natalia’s character and Dimitri is a hero that you can’t help but love. The Blackstone family is so fun to read because they are a interwoven mix of personalities. While this story was not entirely what I was expecting, I still really enjoyed it and couldn’t put it down. The witty conversation between characters is splendid and they each have a uniqueness that Camden is so good at creating. With twists and turns and strong willed women I really wasn’t sure how this book would end and was a bit surprised how everything played out. The history aspect is interesting and I felt like I was transported right into New York City.

I loved reading this book and I highly recommend to fans of historical fiction.

Five Stars!

"I received this book for free from Bethany House. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Carved in Stone

 

 About the Book

 Gwen Kellerman is an heiress to the infamous Blackstone family, whose history of scandal nearly destroyed her. She now lives a quiet life at the idyllic college founded with her family's fortune and hopes to keep the tragedies of her past safely behind her.

Patrick O'Neill survived a hardscrabble youth to become a lawyer for the downtrodden Irish immigrants in his community. He's proud of his work, even though he struggles to afford his ramshackle law office. All that changes when he accepts a case to challenge the Blackstones' legacy of greed and corruption by resurrecting a thirty-year-old mystery.

Little does Patrick suspect that the Blackstones will launch their most sympathetic family member to derail him. Gwen is tasked with getting Patrick to drop the case, but the old mystery takes a shocking twist neither of them saw coming. Now, as they navigate a burgeoning attraction, Patrick is the only one who can save Gwen from new danger on the horizon. (Goodreads)

 

BUY HERE

My Thoughts

 I love reading books by Elizabeth Camden. I was so excited for her to start a new series and I have to say this book did not disappoint. The characters in this story have a very unique point of view and I really appreciate how the author didn't hesitate in bringing in real life issues. Life is really messy and while we get a lot of cookie cutter stories, especially in Christian historical fiction, this book is not that. Yes, there are some great lessons and a little romance, but there is also incredible growth in the characters that I didn't see coming. There are so many little parts of this book that I enjoyed and I laughed a good bit as well. The chapters in this particular story really set it up for book two, which is all about Natalia Blackstone. I already know book two is going to be fabulous. 

Honestly, if you haven't read a book by Elizabeth Camden you are really missing out. I loved this book and I am eager to read the next!

Five Stars. 

"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

 

The Prince of Spies

 

About the Book

 Luke Delacroix has the reputation of a charming man-about-town in Gilded Age Washington, DC. In reality, he is secretly carrying out an ambitious agenda in Congress. His current mission is to thwart the reelection of Congressman Clyde Magruder, his only real enemy in the world.

But trouble begins when Luke meets Marianne Magruder, the congressman's only daughter, whose job as a government photographer gives her unprecedented access to sites throughout the city. Luke is captivated by Marianne's quick wit and alluring charm, leading them both into a dangerous gamble to reconcile their feelings for each other with Luke's driving passion for vital reforms in Congress.

Can their newfound love survive a political firestorm, or will three generations of family rivalry drive them apart forever? (Goodreads)

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My Thoughts

 Oh my goodness what a great conclusion to this series. Luke's story we all knew would be great and it was very well written. You could read this book on its own but I really would recommend starting with the first book in the series. The characters are so well written and developed. I loved the spunky personalities in this book and I really had no idea how exactly things would end. I feel like there were a couple of twists I wasn't expecting and that made it all the better. I loved that Marianne was a photographer and the historical aspect of this novel I thought was fascinating. This whole series has been very unique in how it presents agriculture and food related history and combines it with the politics of the times. The romance is sweet and there is also some great humor. This book has it all and really if you haven't read a Camden novel you need to! 

I highly recommend this book and this series. 

Five Stars. 

"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

My Thoughts On: A Gilded Lady

About the Book

Secretary to the first lady of the United States, Caroline Delacroix is at the pinnacle of high society--but is hiding a terrible secret. Immediately suspicious of Caroline, but also attracted to her, secret service agent Nathaniel Trask must battle his growing love for her as the threat to the president rises and they face adventure, heartbreak, and danger.

 BUY HERE

My Thoughts

I love Elizabeth Camden's novels and was THRILLED to get my hands on this story. This is the second book in the series which I recommend that you read in order. Caroline's character is so opposite my own personality but I really enjoyed getting a peek inside her head. It was fun to read this story line and the history behind it was fascinating. Both Caroline and Nathaniel were uniquely written so they really made the story stand out. I also really loved the details about Ida McKinley. I think this book proves that people are not what they always seem. There are so many great parts to this book it was simply an enjoyable read. I highly recommend and book three can't come soon enough! 

Five Stars. 

"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

The Spice King Review

 

 About the Book

Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building a successful global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Tasked with gaining access to the private Delacroix plant collection, Smithsonian botanist Annabelle Larkin unwittingly steps into a web of dangerous political intrigue and will be forced to choose between her heart and her loyalty to her country. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
I so enjoy Camden's books. She always has such a way of digging up little known historical facts and weaving them into her stories. This book is no exception. I loved learning about about spices and plants and it made me think of things a bit differently. We haven't always had all of the fruit and veggies like we get from the grocery store and of course I knew that but hadn't thought about how it all started. Also this book talks about how food products were not regulated or inspected. It was fascinating and really made the book unique.  I'll be honest in saying that I had a hard time loving the characters on this book. They just didn't click with me, I thought there could have been a little more character depth. Otherwise it was an enjoyable read and if you like a dash of humor sprinkled with romance, and history this could be the book for you! 

Four stars.

I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review. 

A Daring Venture Review

 

 About the Book

As a biochemist in early 1900s New York, Doctor Rosalind Werner has dedicated her life to the crusade against water-borne diseases. She is at the forefront of a groundbreaking technology that will change the way water is delivered to every household in the city--but only if she can get people to believe in her work.

Newly appointed Commissioner of Water for New York Nickolas Drake is highly skeptical of Rosalind and her team's techniques. When a brewing court case throws him into direct confrontation with her, he is surprised by his reaction to the lovely scientist.

While Rosalind and Nick wage a private war against their own attraction, they stand firmly on opposite sides of a battle that will impact far more than just their own lives. As the controversy grows more public and inflammatory and Rosalind becomes the target of an unknown enemy, these two rivals will face higher stakes than they ever could have known. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I really enjoy Camden's books so I have been eager to get my hands on this new story! I really enjoy how her books get creative in their settings and careers of main characters. This series really dives into out of the box careers and I LOVE it! There is a lot of science/chemistry in this book (my least favorite subject) and yet I thought Camden did a splendid job in explaining things. I loved the setting, I loved the history and I liked how she tied this book to the first one. The two main characters are difficult for me to love. I like them but the romance side I didn't like. While I don't think this is Camden's best book, I still couldn't put it down and I am excited to read the next one! 

Four stars. 

"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own."

Top Ten Tuesday - Top Ten Books of 2016

Here are the top ten books for the year! I love doing this post every year so I can look back and see what all I read. This wasn't the best book year for me. I read quite a few that I didn't really enjoy, but these books are definitely worth reading! 

Here is to a new year with new books and fresh perspective!

Happy New Year!

The best book of the year hands down. I adore this story and the characters.

 

This is general fiction so there is some language etc. I have become a huge fan of Kristin Hannah though and I look forward to reading more by her.

 



 



 

This is an older book but it is fantastic for historical fiction lovers!!

It's Dani Pettrey-need I say more?!

 

This book was published by a different company than her other books so if you haven't heard of it or read it you need to!

From This Moment Book Review

 About the Book

Romulus White has tried for years to hire illustrator Stella West for his renowned scientific magazine. She is the missing piece he needs to propel his magazine to the forefront of the industry.
But Stella abruptly quit the art world and moved to Boston with a single purpose: to solve the mysterious death of her beloved sister. Romulus, a man with connections to high society and every important power circle in the city, could be her most valuable ally.
Sparks fly the instant Stella and Romulus join forces, and Romulus soon realizes the strong-willed and charismatic Stella could disrupt his hard-won independence. Can they continue to help each other when their efforts draw the wrong kind of attention from the powers-that-be and put all they've worked for at risk? (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

 Yep, this was another all-nighter for me! Elizabeth Camden is one of my favorite authors and she has yet to disappoint. I loved this book and couldn't put it down even though I really needed to be asleep. I liked the setting in Boston and I never knew any history surrounding the city. Stella is just a great character, I liked her wit and charm. Romulus I had to warm up to. He was a good character for the part, Camden is brilliant at creating male characters that have unique personalities. There are fun science facts that added a lot to the story (you must read it to understand) and how magazines were printed was interesting. While there is a romance story, compared to Camden's other books this one was a lot less romantic. That doesn't make it bad it's just how I viewed the book as I was reading it. And if you haven't read this author before and you like this genre-you must pick up her books!

Great read, five stars!

"I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free in exchange for an honest review."

Until the Dawn Review

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 About the Book

A volunteer for the newly established Weather Bureau, Sophie van Riijn needs access to the highest spot in her village to report the most accurate readings. Fascinated by Dierenpark, an abandoned mansion high atop a windswept cliff in the Hudson River Valley, Sophie knows no better option despite a lack of permission from the absent owners.

The first Vandermark to return to the area in sixty years, Quentin intends to put an end to the shadowy rumors about the property that has brought nothing but trouble upon his family. Ready to tear down the mansion, he is furious to discover a local woman has been trespassing on his land.

Instantly at odds, Quentin and Sophie find common ground when she is the only one who can reach his troubled son. There's a light within Sophie that Quentin has never known, and a small spark of the hope that left him years ago begins to grow. But when the secrets of Dierenpark and the Vandermark family history are no longer content to stay in the past, will tragedy triumph or can their tenuous hope prevail? (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I am a huge fan of Elizabeth Camden and was SO excited to read this book! Camden has a way with words, history, and extraordinary characters and this book was wonderful. I won't say it's my favorite that she has written, but it is still a five star read. 

I loved the setting of Dierenpark and the mystery surrounding the odd circumstances of the story line. I thought it was interesting how we see more of Quentin's point of view and his life than we do of Sophie which I thought was nice. Many times you only see the woman's point of view and with his it adds another layer to the character that you wouldn't otherwise understand. Another topic broached in this book is the thought of an atheist versus a Christian. I think Camden did a good job explaining Christianity but I'm not sure she wrapped it up in a way I agree with. I felt like something was missing on that topic. So that was a slight disappointment. But otherwise I thoroughly enjoyed this story.   

If you haven't read any of her books, you should! I enjoyed this story and highly recommend!

"I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free in exchange for an honest review."

Beyond All Dreams Book Review

 

 About the Book

Sweeping and Romantic Historical Drama from an Award-Winning Author
Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across a baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. She is thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, but her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.
Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen until his promising career became shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship.
Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglement with a member of Congress.
From the gilded halls of the Capitol, where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for themselves? (Goodreads)

 My Review

I am a fan of Elizabeth Camden and was so looking forward to this book. I like Anna's character well enough and her job at the Library of Congress is fun to read about. I found the relationship between Anna and Luke humorous, Camden usually includes a bit of humor. There is an overall mystery that tangles the book up and threads a bit of suspense. Is Luke really who he says he is? What happened so long ago to Anna's father? This part of the story is interesting and I honestly wish there was more detail on this particular part of the story.

There are a lot of politics in this book that I honestly couldn't get into. The little details about Congress and Luke's job didn't intrigue me and I wish that wasn't the case. I have loved all of Elizabeth's books but this one was a bit of a let down for me. I think it was mainly the setting and I just couldn't get into the characters lives. I look forward to her next book though and still recommend her as an author!

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."

 

Travel back in time to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress in Elizabeth Camden's newest release, Beyond All Dreams. From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Elizabeth is celebrating the release of Beyond All Dreams with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• One copy of Beyond All Dreams

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/17. Winner will be announced at Elizabeth's 2/17 Beyond All Dreams Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Elizabeth and historical fiction fans, as well as for the opportunity to win some great prizes!
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 17th!

With Every Breath Book Review

In the shadow of the nation's capital, Kate Livingston holds a respectable position as a government statistician when she encounters a rival from her past, the insufferable Trevor McDonough. A Harvard-trained physician, Trevor never showed the tiniest flicker of interest in Kate, and she's bewildered at the way he suddenly seeks her out. Surprising even herself, Kate agree...more

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About the Book

In the shadow of the nation's capital, Kate Livingston holds a respectable position as a government statistician when she encounters a rival from her past, the insufferable Trevor McDonough. A Harvard-trained physician, Trevor never showed the tiniest flicker of interest in Kate, and she's bewildered at the way he suddenly seeks her out. Surprising even herself, Kate agrees to Trevor's entirely unexpected and risky proposal to work side-by-side with him in his quest to rid the world of tuberculosis, a contagious and deadly disease.

As Kate begins to unlock the mysteries of Trevor's past, she realizes there is much more to him than she could have imagined. His hidden depths may fascinate her, but his most closely guarded secrets and a shadowy enemy lurking in the background carry a serious threat to their future.

When the truth of the past comes out, threatening to destroy everything they hold dear, how will Trevor and Kate ever overcome all that stands in their way? (Goodreads)

My Review

Oh my goodness I loved this book. Elizabeth Camden is such a great author and I have loved all of her books, but this one was really fantastic. I was a bit hesitant because of the medical story line but I loved every bit of it! I feel like I learned a ton and Camden does great research while putting into a story that's not boring or overwhelming. Kate's character is so fun to read but I love Trevor, he is very much a Sherlock Holmes personality. The storyline goes into detail about tuberculosis, as Trevor, a famous doctor, is trying to find a cure. Someone is trying to destroy his career, Kate is confused on his mysterious past, and they also have a lingering past history.

So much mystery, yet it's not overdone. The romance is written flawlessly and I simply couldn't stop reading.  

Highly recommend!! Five stars.

 Also, check out Camden's other books, they are great as well!

"I received this book from Bethany House for free in exchange for an honest review."

Into the Whirlwind Book Review

Picture Credit

After her father's death, Mollie Knox takes over his watchmaking company and uses her head for business 

 to solidify the good name of the 57th Illinois Watch Company. Her future looks bright until the night her beloved city is destroyed in the legendary Great Chicago Fire. With her world crumbling around her, Molly must do whatever it takes to save her company in the aftermath of the devastating fire.

Zack Kazmarek is an influential attorney with powerful ties to the political, mercantile, and ethnic roots of Chicago. His only weakness is Mollie Knox, a woman who has always been just beyond his reach. However, all bets are off after the fire destroys Chicago, and Mollie is in desperate need of assistance. Just as Zack finally begins to pursue the woman he loves, competition arises in the form of a hero from her past who can provide the help she needs to rise from the ashes.

While Mollie struggles to rebuild, the two men battle for her heart. One has always loved her, but the other has the power to save her. In the race to rebuild the city, can she survive with her business and her heart intact?

My Review

I am a fan of Elizabeth Camden, she has yet to disappoint. Into the Whirlwind was a fascinating look into the Great Chicago Fair. I had never read anything that was written during that time and I enjoyed how the author incorporated it into her storyline. I loved the characters, Mollie is so fun to read about, while Zack is infuriating, I wanted to yell at him a few times. I could not put this book down. I love how smart Mollie is and how the fire raged through the city and they were right in the middle of it all. I enjoyed how I got to read the side of Mollie trying to figure out her future. 
Another interesting fact was the Polish influence on the story line. I know little about that part in history and Camden did great research to add life to her story. 

I highly recommend!

"I received this book from CFBA for free in exchange for an honest review."

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Into the Whirlwind Baker Publishing Group (August 15, 2013) by Elizabeth Camden

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A research librarian and associate professor, Elizabeth Camden has a master’s in history from the University of Virginia and a master’s in library science from Indiana University. She has published several articles for academic publications and is the author of four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. Elizabeth lives with her husband in central Florida.




ABOUT THE BOOK

After her father's death, Mollie Knox takes over his watchmaking company and uses her head for business to solidify the good name of the 57th Illinois Watch Company. Her future looks bright until the night her beloved city is destroyed in the legendary Great Chicago Fire. With her world crumbling around her, Molly must do whatever it takes to save her company in the aftermath of the devastating fire.

Zack Kazmarek is an influential attorney with powerful ties to the political, mercantile, and ethnic roots of Chicago. His only weakness is Mollie Knox, a woman who has always been just beyond his reach. However, all bets are off after the fire destroys Chicago, and Mollie is in desperate need of assistance. Just as Zack finally begins to pursue the woman he loves, competition arises in the form of a hero from her past who can provide the help she needs to rise from the ashes.

While Mollie struggles to rebuild, the two men battle for her heart. One has always loved her, but the other has the power to save her. In the race to rebuild the city, can she survive with her business and her heart intact?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Into the Whirlwind, go HERE.

Against the Tide Book Review

Picture Credit

Against the Tide by  Elizabeth Camden is a suspenseful historical fiction novel set in the late 1800s. I love the cover of this book and I have read The Rose of Winslow Street by Camden and was excited to read her new story!

Against the Tide has great unexpected characters and clever dialogue that creates humor throughout the chapters. The prologue to this book left me surprised and completely confused as the book progressed. The story starts in Boston as Lydia Pallas works for as a translator for the U.S. Navy and unexpectedly is forced to work with a man who is a complete mystery. Alexander Banebridge, who is a leading character, left me uncertain at first and I wasn't sure what his plan was within the story. I like a book that keeps me guessing, even if only the first few chapters. Of course these characters grow closer as they work together and feelings for each other start to appear. Trouble is, someone wants Alexander a dead man and he wouldn't the person he cared for get hurt. The plot revolves around the opium trade, how addicted the drug can be, and how it effected people without them even knowing it. This part of the story is eye opening, as one of the main characters is addicted without realizing it. I love the look into history with the opium trade and how relevant it is to life these days.

The book started out a little slow but there are many details to the story that this is necessary in order to understand what is going on. The romance between the couple seems to start a little too suddenly but after finishing the book it makes sense why it is written like this. I thought Lydia to be a tad dramatic at times but if I was in her situation I probably would be too. I love how Alexander has a passion for the Lord even with his rough exterior. This book is excellent and I definitely recommend this as a great read.

Five Stars!


Head over to the author's website to read an excerpt.


"I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for this review"