A LESSON IN PROPRIETY by Jen Turano, Reviewed by Paula and Winnie #ReleaseDay

Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies Book #1: 

A Gilded-Age Historical Rom-Com Set in Chicago

 

PAULA'S REVIEW:

Ms. Turano is always good for a hilarious time when I delve into her quirky historicals. This time the animal kingdom is on the attack- whether it is the pet ferrets or the goats, geese, and ravens that inhabit a rumored ghost-ridden castle.
 

Part of the New York society elite, Drusilla Merriweather, sister and mother have been cheated of their millions after the death of Mr. Merriweather. But Aunt Ottilie has gifted the girls with a castle in a newly affluent neighborhood in Chicago. Hijinks ensue when they encounter mobsters after their property which they want to turn into an Academy for teaching etiquette.
 

Ms Turano never ceases to amaze me with her turn of phrase and the antics of her characters and animals.
 

Mystery and mayhem, romance and riot, missing persons and mischief abound in this perfectly paced novel. The heroine is independent and set in her ways but the hero is just what she needs to help thwart the enemy.
 

I cannot wait for the next match-up in book two and some things to be resolved- the game is still afoot!
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House on behalf of the author and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and an underlying faith thread

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“His lips quirked. ‘I’ll say one thing for sure—all of you are going to make some interesting proper decorum instructors because, from what I know about ladies, which isn’t all that much, the proper ones don’t tend to involve themselves with matters that might turn dangerous.’”

Jen Turano’s Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies series is a showcase for Turano’s signature wit and humor. I always love meeting her new characters and seeing the crazy settings and circumstances she plops them in.

Druscilla Merriweather, her sister Annaliese, and their mother are left penniless in New York City when their fortune is stolen after their father’s death. The sisters decide on a plan to move to Chicago and turn a house they inherited into a finishing school for young ladies. Upon finding the house is a castle which is allegedly haunted, they—along with their friend Seraphina—go to work ridding it of ghosts, ravens, goat herds, and walking suits of armor. Upon finding themselves threatened by unscrupulous developers who want the property, hero and architect Rhenick Wittenbecker arrives to protect them.

“Drusilla watched him disappear through the door, but continued staring at the door even after he was out of sight because--it was difficult to hold a grudge against a gentleman who’d saved her from an unexpected bird assault.”

Rhenick is a swoony and amazing hero. He’s just what Drusilla needs after being jilted by her ex-fiance. I loved Drusilla and her “take-charge” personality. She is independent, courageous, and seems to take things in her stride and solve problems as they come along.

“Considering she’d just been told she was in danger, it was rather unexpected that instead of feeling even a smidgen of apprehension about the matter, Drusilla was feeling downright annoyed instead.”

Be prepared for unusual weapons—purse revolvers, a blunderbuss, brooms, flamethrowers, attack ferrets, and even goat guards—when these hilarious characters need to defend themselves. Filled with action, suspense, witty dialogue, hilarity, and a dash of romance, this tale is a barrel of fun which is good for some belly laughs, chuckles, and even a few snorts.

I’m excited for the rest of the series to see how these three ladies handle a castle full of young ladies and try to teach them decorum. I’m sure there’s going to be loads of delightful mayhem and craziness going on.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House. All opinions are my own. 

 

BackCover Blurb:
LESSON ONE: Stand in the way of the Windy City's criminal world and expect a most improper proposal from an eligible gentleman in return.

With her father dead, her fortune stolen, and her fiancé casting her aside, Miss Drusilla Merriweather's privileged life has been upended. She is left with only one option: to provide for her family by opening a finishing school in the allegedly haunted castle she's inherited from her eccentric aunt. However, her plan is immediately threatened by unscrupulous developers keen on claiming the coveted estate for themselves by any means necessary.

Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker, a dashing architect with a tendency to charm his way out of trouble, is convinced he can protect Drusilla but is challenged by her fierce independence. Yet when strange occurrences--walking suits of armor and unexpected ghostly visitors--arise within the castle's grounds, Drusilla must decide whether to risk her family's safety and her school on the gallant architect who seems to have found his way into her heart.

Laugh-out-loud witty banter, swoon-worthy romance, and delightful mischief in the Gilded Age string together this entrancing series starter. Fans of clean romance, Christian fiction, and strong female characters will enjoy this read. 

Bethany House Publishing, May 2025
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:
Buy A LESSON IN PROPRIETY at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

MEETING HER MATCH by Jen Turano, Reviewed by Rebecca Maney

"Consummate ladies did not find themselves fearing for their lives often, if ever, but that certainly seemed to be what she was facing now."

Miss Camilla Pierpont and Mr. Owen Chesterfield had gotten off on the wrong foot (understatement of all understatements) . . . it was all a big misunderstanding of course when Camilla thought her knight in shining armor was nothing but a highwayman in disguise . . . except he rather looked the part as well, swathed in ill-fitting clothes and sporting a mighty big stature. To her chagrin, Owen turned out to be an extremely wealthy business magnate from West Virginia who had a little matchmaking opportunity in mind. Not with her of course, (of course!??) but rather Owen had traveled to New York in order to request her services for his hooligan of a sister. (who wasn't nearly as much trouble as her reputation)

It worked out rather well, really. Camilla needed to disappear from danger (the real highwaymen) and no one would ever expect her to flee to West Virginia, to a place where pigs walked (walked?) through yards of its mansions and giant cats became best friends with dogs . . . closely tied to meddlesome "meemaws" (cackle, cackle) who tried to sneak apple pie recipes under pillows and in pockets. What Camilla never expected and could hardly believe herself was . . .

So fun to read!!! So, so fun. The story's West Virginia setting gave the author ample room to expand her characters to act and react out of character, while moving the story forward at a charming pace, allowing Camilla to wave her magic matchmaking wand, setting Owen up for the surprise of his life . . . . he had somehow (in spite of Camilla's aversion to marriage) managed to meet his match . . . if they could only test out that kiss!
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Interviews and Reviews! The opinions stated above are entirely my own! 4.5 stars

SEE REVIEWS BY WINNIE AND PAULA

BackCover Blurb:
Miss Camilla Pierpont, a renowned matchmaker and influential member of the New York Four Hundred, has vowed never to marry after suffering a devastating heartbreak during her debut years ago. However, when she is nearly abducted along the Hudson River, she finds herself rescued by an annoyingly outspoken, albeit fascinating, gentleman who challenges her in a manner she wasn't expecting.

After learning that Camilla Pierpont has enjoyed success with taking wayward young ladies in hand, Mr. Owen Chesterfield travels to the Hudson River Valley determined to convince Camilla to sponsor his sister, who is in desperate need of social rehabilitation.

Knowing her life is in danger, Camilla agrees to Owen's proposition and travels with him to West Virginia, finding herself charmed by the less-than-formal attitude of his small hometown, as well as by Owen himself. But danger waits in the shadows, disrupting what she knows would be the most spectacular match she's ever made--her own.

Bethany House Publishing, July, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, library binding, and audiobook:

Buy MEETING HER MATCH at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House 

WHILE THE CITY SLEEPS by Elizabeth Camden, (The Women of Midtown #1), Reviewed by Rebecca, Winnie, and Paula #ReleaseDay

(The Women of Midtown): 

(Gilded Age Christian Historical Romance Fiction Set in New York City)

REBECCA'S REVIEW:
" . . . I promise, if you are ever on your deathbed, I will personally deliver as much chocolate biscotti as you like."

Biscotti. Sometimes life and love comes down to the biscotti, and Lieutenant Jonathan Birch certainly knows or has access to the recipe for the absolute best chocolate biscotti . . . wait a minute, was it possible that the man baked it himself? Surely not! Dr. Katherine Schneider's inquiring mind wanted to know; actually she wanted to know everything about the handsome policeman who saw her safely to the subway station each evening, since the New York dental clinic where she worked didn't close until midnight.

Then came the night that changed everything . . . Katherine encountered a patient who gave away a few too many secrets while he was under the influence of nitrous oxide . . . his rambling hadn't made sense at the time, but . . . according to current events, it might make a lot of sense to her detective.

Jonathan is equally grateful and worried about the information that Katherine shares with him. Random bombings are threatening to throw the city's law enforcement community into a frenzy, not knowing if the source can be traced to heightened rival gang activity or political anarchists setting the stage for their demands. If Katherine's identity is ever leaked, her life could be in serious danger. Then there's the matter of Jonathan's family ties . . . Katherine will never forgive him if she discovers what he has been hiding for years. Lives are hanging in the balance . . . while the city sleeps.

An intriguing start to a new series, featuring the nocturnal courtship of two night "owls" who have a lot to learn about life and love as they navigate the danger that is lurking around every turn.

"If God is good and trustworthy in the easy times, you need to trust him during the dark nights of the soul as well . . . you are being ruled by fear. The voice of doubt whispering in your ear is leading you astray. Jonathan has been drawn to a noble calling . . . I don't believe you were put on this earth to interfere with that."
*I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own. 3.5 stars

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
“We all have the freedom to choose what kind of person we want to be, what kind of character to show to the world, and I want to be brave.”

While the City Sleeps is the first book in Elizabeth Camden’s new series, Women of Midtown. It’s a riveting peek into life in New York City in 1913. Camden brings the city to life with courageous, interesting characters and rich historical detail.

Katherine Schneider is a female dentist in a time when that was a rarity. She is independent, capable, and engaging. Jonathan Birch has a hidden past but has worked hard to overcome it and become an admirable police officer. They have had unspoken feelings for each other for a couple of years, and Jonathan has taken it upon himself to protect Katherine. When one of her patients reveals a deadly plot while under the influence of laughing gas, Katherine is plunged into danger.

With plenty of action, suspense, history, and a swoony slow burn romance, this tale has something for everyone. I recommend it to those who enjoy clean and wholesome historical romance fiction. Camden is one of my favorite historical fiction authors, and this book is going straight to my keeper shelf.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own. 4.5 stars

PAULA'S REVIEW
Jonathan Birch is a policeman in 1913 New York City working the night beat. “We all have the freedom to choose what kind of person we want to be, what kind of character to show to the world, and I want to be brave.” Fleeing his shrouded past, Jonathan changes his life to one of respectability and service. He escorts Dr. Katherine Schneider home every night at midnight from her dental clinic in Times Square. When she overhears strange things from a patient under anesthesia, they don’t make sense until the city is rocked by several bombs. 

Now, with her life in danger, Jonathan goes into protective mode and what they encounter is not without risks.
The characters are complex and reveal motivations that produce conflict to make a very interesting and powerful plot. 

Jonathan and Katherine show spiritual growth and learn to be more open, honest and forgiving,
With danger, intrigue, rivalries and a budding romance, this novel delves into the nightlife of New York City in 1913.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a strong faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
Amid the hushed city, two hearts must navigate danger and deception, bound by a love that outshines the stars.

Katherine Schneider's life as a dentist in 1913 New York is upended when a patient reveals details of a deadly plot while under the influence of laughing gas. As she is plunged into danger, she seeks help from the dashing Lieutenant Jonathan Birch, a police officer she has long admired from afar.

Jonathan has harbored powerful feelings toward Katherine for years but never acted on them, knowing his dark history is something she could never abide. Now, with her safety on the line, he works alongside her through the nights as they unravel the criminal conspiracy that threatens her . . . even as he keeps his deepest secrets hidden at all costs.

Bethany House Publishing, February, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy WHILE THE CITY SLEEPS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

 

ALL MY SECRETS by Lynn Austin, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

“The Almighty has a way of bringing good things from our sorrows, if we let Him.”
 

The world comes crashing down for grandmother Junietta, daughter-in-law Sylvia and granddaughter Adelaide when A.B. Stanhope dies and all their wealth goes to a nephew as the closest male heir. The women have lived so long in the rich and privileged atmosphere that they need to find their way in their new circumstances. “…the memories don’t live in the house. They’re in your heart. You carry them with you no matter where you live.” “…beautiful houses filled with possessions mean nothing if a home lacks love.”
 

In their struggle, each of the women evaluate what really counts in life. Told from three points of view, we see secrets revealed, lessons learned and priorities reexamined.

Forgiveness and hope are big themes as well as finding what God wants for Junietta, Sylvia and Adelaide.This was a challenging, insightful, beautifully written story with romance, regrets and redemption.
*I received an ecopy of this book from Tyndale through NetGalley. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a strong faith thread

BackCover Blurb:

Bestselling author Lynn Austin returns with a luminous work of historical fiction set amid the opulence of Gilded Age New York, where three generations of women in one family must reckon with the choices they have made and their hopes for the future.

New York, 1898. The only thing more shocking than Arthur Stanhope III’s unexpected death is the revelation that his will bestows his company—and most of the vast fortune that goes with it—to the nearest male heir, leaving his mother, wife, and daughter nearly impoverished. His widow, Sylvia, quickly realizes she must set aside her grief to ensure their daughter, Adelaide, is launched into society as soon as the appropriate mourning period passes. If Sylvia can find a wealthy husband for Addy before anyone realizes they’re practically destitute, there will be little disruption to the lifestyle they’re accustomed to.

Sylvia’s mother-in-law, Junietta, believes their life could use a little disruption. She has watched Sylvia play her role as a society wife, as Junietta once did, despite what it cost them both. Junietta vows to give her granddaughter the power to choose a path beyond what society expects.

But for Addy to have that chance, both mother and grandmother must first confront painful truths about their own choices. Only in bringing their secrets to light can they hope to reshape their family inheritance into a legacy more fulfilling than they ever dared dream.

-Stand alone Christian historical romance from Christy Award Hall of Fame author
-Historical drama full of complex family dynamics
-Perfect for fans of Eve’s Daughters and other family sagas
-Includes discussion questions for book clubs

Tyndale House Publishing, February, 2024

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy ALL MY SECRETS at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

HEARTS OF STEEL by Elizabeth Camden, Reviewed by Winnie Thomas

Talented author Elizabeth Camden has concluded her Blackstone Legacy series with yet another riveting novel featuring Liam Blackstone and Maggie Molinaro. Hearts of Steel is overflowing with rich historical history and captivating characters. Set in New York in 1902, this book has Liam and Maggie teaming together to fight corruption within the city. The main characters were colorful, engaging, and plucky, and I enjoyed seeing their relationship change and grow. It was fun seeing some of the people from the first two books showing up to help Liam and Maggie with their quest. Liam impressed me with his determination to learn and overcome his weaknesses and his early upbringing. Maggie’s hard work and resolve to succeed was also exemplary.

I always learn much about little slices of history from Camden’s books, and this one is no exception. The historical notes from the author in the back of the book stated that the main corrupt businessman in the story, Charles W. Morse, actually existed and used extortion, threats, and bribery to force competitors and others out of business.

With plenty of suspense, action, inspiration, and romance, this book kept me turning the pages. It’s a fantastic addition to the series. Messages of faith, hope, strength through adversity, and the importance of family combine to add depth to this enthralling tale.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.4.5 stars 

SEE PAULA'S REVIEW

BackCover Blurb:
His steel empire has catapulted him to the top of the world, but loving her could cost him everything.

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 fortunes for the good of the city. It will require all their wit and ingenuity to protect everything--and everyone--they hold dear.

Bethany House Publishing, January 2023

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy HEARTS OF STEEL at Amazon, Christianbook .com, or Baker Book House

CARVED IN STONE by Elizabeth Camden, Reviewed by Nicole Cook and Paula Shreckhise #ReleaseDay

NICOLE'S REVIEW:
Fans of Elizabeth Camden's will be thrilled for the start of her new historical fiction series, The Blackstone Legacy. Elizabeth Camden is one of my go-to authors for historical fiction, and she continues to impress me with her well-researched and fascinating glimpses into the past. This novel is loosely based on J.P. Morgan and the creation of the United States Steel Corporation.

Family secrets, a years old unsolved mystery, and an unlikely romance developing between an heiress and an Irish immigrant who became a lawyer make Carved in Stone a must read. I can't wait for the next book in the series!

Carved in Stone is highly recommended for readers of historical fiction.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine. Faith content rating: light 

 

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Ms. Camden once again takes us to the Gilded Age and a lesson in clashes between the classes where the characters learn just what traditions are carved in stone and what changes are in store.

Gwen comes from a wealthy family and hopes to make her mark in Botany at Blackstone College.

Patrick wanted to become a priest but turned to law, having been trained by the Church in both vocations.

Patrick and Gwen meet when they are on opposite sides of a dispute between her prominent family and a client Patrick is representing. They find they both have similar life aspirations: to help people in need. But differences loom to keep them apart.

Ms. Camden always fills her books with interesting characters. Liam is a great example of how a life can turn around. He is very rough around the edges but has a quality that makes him a leader.

Filled with opulence that was indicative of the times, we also see the contrast in the slums of the Five Points. But it is the changed lives and priorities that make this book special.

Well researched with colorful characters and a lesson in compromise between the classes, this book will interest readers of Historical Christian Fiction.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own. * I give this 5 stars and a solid faith thread

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Her gilded world holds a deeply hidden secret.

After years of tragedy, Gwen Kellerman now lives a quiet life as a botanist at an idyllic New York college. She largely ignores her status as heiress to the infamous Blackstone dynasty and hopes to keep her family's heartbreak and scandal 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 that is sure to emphasize 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 and growing danger, Patrick and Gwen will be forced to decide if the risk to the life they've always held dear is worth the reward.

Bethany House Publishing, August 2021

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy Carved in Stone at Amazon

Buy Carved in Stone at Christianbook.com

Buy Carved in Stone at Baker Book House

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Elizabeth Camden (www.elizabethcamden.com)is best known for her historical novels set in Gilded Age America, featuring clever heroines and richly layered storylines. Before she was a writer, she was an academic librarian at some of the largest and smallest libraries in America, but her favorite is the continually growing library in her own home. Her novels have won the RITA and Christy Award and have appeared on the CBA bestsellers list. She lives in Orlando, Florida, with her husband, who graciously tolerates her intimidating stockpile of books.

MY DEAR MISS DUPRE´ by Grace Hitchcok, Reviewed by Winnie Thomas and Paula Shreckhise

WINNIE'S REVIEW:
The cover and premise of this book caught my eye and begged me to read it, and what a charming story it was. Set in the Gilded Age in New York City, and Newport, Rhode Island, it’s an entertaining look at society during this time. The heroine, Willow Dupré, is delightful and caught in the unenviable position of having to choose a husband from thirty men deemed eligible by her parents. The board members of her father’s sugar company insist that she have a husband by her side to aid her in running the company, as her father’s health is failing. Educated and capable, Willow is perfectly able to run it by herself, but she goes along with the activities planned to winnow down the list of bachelors within a few short months.

With wit, charm, some intrigue, and a lot of crazy antics, the tale comes to a delicious and satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed meeting the suitors—some more than others. I’m looking forward to more books in this series from Grace Hitchcock.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
Madcap fun.

What a predicament Willow Dupré finds herself in. She is an educated, business-minded miss who is set to take over the sugar empire her father has built. However, the board members want her to find a husband who can rule beside her. Her parents, one of the foremost families in elite New York society of 1883, have given their daughter an ultimatum: Choose a husband in only six months from 30 hand picked suitors.

What a whirlwind romance. Willow has a good heart and relies on her faith to guide her, but oh, the decisions she has to make. And the planned and unplanned circumstances that she gets into! She is down to the final choices and everything comes apart. She has asked God to guide her but can she trust her own heart? And can she see the true motives of her beaux?

Very interesting was a lesson in the meaning of flowers and what messages they send to a courting couple.

An enjoyable spin on The Bachelorette, with added intrigue and promise of more to come from The American Royalty series. I know I want a story about Willow’s best friend, Flora.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Review Crew and BPH Open Book. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* 5 Stars and a solid faith thread.

BackCover Blurb:

Willow Dupré never thought she would have to marry, but with her father's unexpected retirement from running the prosperous Dupré sugar refinery, she is forced into a different future. The shareholders are unwilling to allow a female to take over the company without a man at her side, so her parents devise a plan--find Willow a spokesman king in order for her to become queen of the business empire.

Willow is presented with thirty potential suitors from the families of New York society's elite group called the Four Hundred. She has six months to court the group and is told to to eliminate men each month to narrow her beaus until she chooses one to marry, ending the competition with a wedding. Willow reluctantly agrees, knowing she must do what is best for the business. She doesn't expect to find anything other than a proxy . . . until she meets a gentleman who captures her attention, and she must discover for herself if his motives are pure.

 

Bethany House Publishing, March 2021

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:

Buy My Dear Miss Dupré at Amazon

Buy My Dear Miss Dupré at Christianbook.com

Buy My Dear Miss Dupré at Baker Book House

THE PRINCE OF SPIES by Elizabeth Camden, Reviewed by Nicole, Paula, and Winnie #ReleaseDay

NICOLE'S REVIEW:
"He barely knew her, but their spontaneous attraction was dangerous. Then again, Luke had always loved flirting with danger."

Ever since meeting the charming and sometimes reckless Luke Delacroix in book one of Elizabeth Camden's Hope and Glory series, he instantly became a favorite character of mine. After playing a supporting role in the first two books of the series, Luke gets his story told in book three, The Prince of Spies. Luke's story was definitely worth the wait.

Readers will be treated to a fantastic tale rooted in a deep rivalry lasting several generations between two important families, the Delacroix family and the Magruder family. When Luke Delacroix and Marianne Magruder meet and sparks fly, tensions also increase as they soon discover that they belong to feuding families.

Elizabeth Camden is one of my go-to authors for historical fiction, and her Hope and Glory series is my favorite of hers. She intricately weaves relatively unknown bits of history into her novels, such as the The Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906 and "the Poison Squad," a group of men who voluntarily participated in food safety trials with a variety of preservatives. Although I am sad this series is over, the Delocroix family will have a permanent place on my keeper shelf where I can easily revisit old friends.

The Prince of Spies is highly recommended for readers of historical fiction.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine. Inkwell Faith Content Rating – 2 (Light)

WINNIE'S REVIEW:

Elizabeth Camden pens the most delicious historical romance books, and The Prince of Spies is one of my very favorites. Camden is a master at creating realistic, colorful, and engaging characters and putting them in a little-known slice of history. Then she ups the suspense and intrigue by plopping them into precarious situations and proceeds to have them work their way out to a satisfying and deeply absorbing conclusion.

Luke Delacroix is a fascinating character with his devil-may-care outward attitude which covers a caring and courageous inner heart. When he meets Marianne Magruder, the daughter of his family’s bitter enemy, sparks fly, but they can’t see a way to make a relationship work. Meanwhile, Luke signs up for the Poison Squad which tests food additives and preservatives on human subjects to see the effects on the men. I was unaware of this group of courageous men that helped bring about government oversight on foods, so it was very interesting to learn of it.

Elizabeth Camden is one of my must-read authors for historical fiction, and her Hope and Glory series is a favorite of mine. The Prince of Spies is the final book in the series, and what a fantastic finish it was! It will definitely be on my list of top reads for the year and has earned a spot on my keeper shelf. Although it could be read as a standalone book, do yourself a favor and read the other two first to get some great background.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

PAULA'S REVIEW:
This is the third book of the Hope and Glory series by Elizabeth Camden. I have enjoyed this whole series and count it among the very best series I have read. The three covers together make an awesome tableau. This is Luke Delacroix story and it is like Romeo and Juliet without the tragic ending. Luke and his family are very much at odds with the Magruders. Luke meets Marianne when he rescues her nephew’s dog that has fallen through the ice. Things get complicated when he learns who Aunt Marianne really is.

The whole series is about political life during the early 1900s. The intrigue surrounding the food and drug trials of The Poison Squad is so interesting, as are the photographs Marianne takes to document buildings before they are torn down to make way for the National Mall in Washington D.C.

Oh the trouble Ms. Camden gets her characters into! I kept wondering how in the world the story was going to get resolved which kept me turning those pages. Super ending to a super series.

Quotes:

“Maybe sending Marianne into his life was God’s way of compelling Luke to examine his own cocksure arrogance in looking at the world. Stranger things had happened, and he was up to the challenge.”

“The virtues of love, humility, charity and forgiveness might not solve the problem, but they could serve as a balm in an imperfect world.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
5 stars and a solid faith thread.

BackCover Blurb:
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?

Bethany House Publishers, February 16, 2021

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:

Buy The Prince of Spies at Amazon

Buy The Prince of Spies at Christianbook.com

Buy The Prince of Spies at Baker Book House

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Elizabeth Camden (www.elizabethcamden.com) is best known for her historical novels set in Gilded Age America, featuring clever heroines and richly layered storylines. Before she was a writer, she was an academic librarian at some of the largest and smallest libraries in America, but her favorite is the continually growing library in her own home. Her novels have won the RITA and Christy Award and have appeared on the CBA bestsellers list. She lives in Orlando, Florida, with her husband, who graciously tolerates her intimidating stockpile of books.