Elizabeth Camden (1)

Elizabeth Camden has done it again! What a fascinating story from the beginning to end! This beautifully written and masterfully crafted tale takes us first to 1900 Alexandria, VA as Gray is building his spice trade empire and Annabelle is starting a new life in Washington DC as a botanical specialist in the Smithsonian. As Annabelle and Gray meet while she’s searching for the original vanilla orchid, their lives intertwine to include intrigue, romance, betrayal, and matters of national show more security. There are plenty of plot twists to keep you on your toes and there is still a smoldering question unanswered by the end of the book, which should make the sequel very interesting. I really enjoyed learning about the spice trade, the intricate process of making vanilla extract, the beginning of quality control in processed food items spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture, and how our scientists went all over the world looking for seeds and fruits to diversify our food supply. The premise and plot are quite original and captivating, as is the storytelling.

Equally captivating are the characters in the story. Gray, the sober and disciplined businessman, and Annabelle, the bright and sunny botanist with an expertise in cereal grasses, are absolute opposites in personality and outlook on life. Yet they’re drawn like magnets to each other and learn what grace, mercy, compassion, and forgiveness really mean through trials and tribulations. Gray’s brother Luke and sister Caroline are also fascinating; I can’t wait for the next book to get to know Caroline better.

Truly this is a historical fiction not to be missed. I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own. show less

Elizabeth Camden writes fascinating historical fiction that blossoms from an obscure fact or event in history. This new series focuses on women working in Midtown Manhattan and I absolutely loved visiting 1913 NYC. Walking in Katherine's shoes was particularly eye-opening, given that she is a woman dentist in the heart of NYC during the Gilded Age. Her tenacity, optimism, struggles, and triumphs made her a memorable heroine. Jonathan, with his shadowed past and commitment to justice, was a show more remarkable hero; he made me believe in our law enforcement and its dedication all over again.
There was a nice bit of mystery and intrigue underneath the history and romance and the plot blended these components well.
If you enjoy historical fiction, you will definitely love this book. Elizabeth Camden will sweep you into the bustling metropolis of NYC and keep you glued there until the very end of the book.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Bethany House and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own. show less

Set in New York City in 1900 and rich in historical detail, Elizabeth Camden’s first book in The Blackstone Legacy series is a fascinating look at the differences in social classes during that period. The disparity between the very wealthy and the poor, hardworking classes is brought to life in this tale.

Camden is a master at creating colorful, carefully-drawn, engaging characters, and they shine in this book. Gwen Kellerman is a wealthy heiress in the Blackstone family, although she show more cares little for her fortune. She aims to carry on her father’s work and legacy at Blackstone College. When she meets Patrick O’Neill, an impoverished Irish lawyer who is striving to help the struggling Irish immigrants in his community, a connection occurs. I enjoyed seeing their relationship change and grow as they strive to solve a mystery and accomplish their goals.

Intrigue, suspense, romance, and inspiration combine to make this a magnificent start to the series. I enjoyed the historical notes in the back of the book that tie the book to actual historical happenings and people. Camden is one of my favorite go-to authors for historical romance fiction, and I’m looking forward to her next book. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House publishers. All opinions are my own. show less

All the stars! A fantastic enemies to lovers, grumpy sunshine, marriage of convenience WWI romance all in one. Elizabeth Camden’s a favorite author who brilliantly brings history to life. When Stars Light the Sky, the fabulous second book in the Women of Midtown series, delivers all the glitz & glamour of 1900’s Germany as a beautiful young woman returns to her homeland to work for the American Ambassador to keep America out of WWI.

Inga Klein came to America as a child from a small show more village in Germany. A wealthy couple, the Gerards helped her family when they were in need, & treated Inga as a kind of adopted daughter. When Mr. Gerard becomes the Ambassador to Germany during the tense time leading up to WWI, he asks Inga to accompany him & his wife as his secretary. After arriving in Germany, Inga immediately gets on the bad side of the grumpy, serious diplomatic chief of staff, Benedict Kincaid. Though she thinks she’s not very smart, Inga has amazing abilities that go beyond book learning. As negations with the Kaiser become strained, Inga finds herself in need of a rescuer.

Benedict Kincaid can’t help but be drawn to the sunshiny Inga, but, a bad first marriage makes him reluctant to fall in love again. He’d much rather find enjoyment in reading his encyclopedias than fraternize with the staff. As war tensions rise, Inga finds herself in a precarious situation & needs to be married to obtain her American citizenship. Benedict’s the only eligible man who can save her, but can these two opposites survive a marriage of convenience?

I thoroughly enjoyed this story! I love grumpy/sunshine romances especially when it’s also enemies to lovers. Inga’s & Benedict’s romance was so delightful. I loved the sizzling romantic tension as they navigate close proximity & a fake marriage. I loved “Cold Oats,” the notes in Benedict’s encyclopedias, & visiting Inga’s German relatives. I enjoyed seeing them grow to recognize & appreciate each other’s strengths. Inga & Benedict have very different goals in life & I was on pins & needles wondering how everything would work out.

There were so many twists in this story & I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I loved the glamorous embassy setting & seeing famous guests like Claude Debussy. It was also fascinating to learn more about the lead up to America’s involvement in WWI & all the behind the scenes negotiations.

Highest of recommendations for this amazing book! Though part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author & publisher. All opinions are my own & voluntarily provided. show less