Review of "Beyond All Dreams"

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: I love visiting libraries, and the Library of Congress is one of my favorite.  When I learned that "Beyond All Dreams" is set in the Library of Congress, I immediately put it on my reading list. Elizabeth Camden's attention to historical detail brought the library to life at the pivotal point in its history when it transitions from the Capitol into it's own opulent surroundings. I definitely felt a deeper connection to the setting of the novel since I have visited the Library of Congress a few times and was able to clearly envision its design. The building has always captured my interest with its history and beauty, but I have never considered the stories of its past librarians and patrons. "Beyond All Dreams" gave me a new perspective into the history of the Library of Congress and the men and women who have worked there.  I definitely learned some information that I don't recall hearing on a tour; and the next time I enter the Library of Congress, my thoughts will go beyond an awe of the impressive design.  

While the setting of "Beyond All Dreams" is what I will likely remember most, the plot within is also interesting.  Alice O'Brien and Luke Callahan are characters with unique back-stories that play important roles in adding some tension and depth to the plot.  Alice's job as a librarian and Luke's position as a Congressman are ideal for capturing the political environment of Washington D.C. in the late 1890s.  Anna's search for the truth regarding the disappearance of her father's ship gives mystery to the plot, especially when we learn early-on that the government does not want the truth revealed. Cameo appearances by such figures as William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt, add authenticity to the plot, and a sense of "time travel" that I love.  

Alice and Luke are an unconventional couple. Anna's quiet ways were easy for me to relate to since I am also an introvert.  Luke never completely won me over because he often came across to me as cocky and flashy.  Some of his fashion choices raised my eyebrows too. Nevertheless, it was refreshing to read a love story in which opposites attract.  Anna's friend, Neville, and Luke's nephew, Philip, each offered their own subplots that complimented the main story.  

"Beyond All Dreams" is a great read for historical fiction fans.  Elizabeth Camden provides historical information in an entertaining plot.  Anyone with a love of books and libraries will find treasures within the pages as they delve into the Library of Congress with Anna. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. 

Summary from Bethany House: Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across the baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. Thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, 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 before his promising career was 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 entanglements with members 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 their futures?

Review of "Against the Tide" by Elizabeth Camden

Rating: 4 Stars

~  ~  ~

Summary: After a childhood rampant with uncertainty, Lydia Pallas has carved out a perfect life for herself. She spends her days within sight of the bustling Boston Harbor, where her skill with languages has landed her an enviable position as a translator for the U.S. Navy. 

-

Lydia's talents bring her to the attention of Alexander Banebridge, a mysterious man in need of a translator. Driven by a campaign to end the opium trade, Bane is coolly analytical and relentless in his quest. He cannot afford to fall for Lydia and must fight the bittersweet love growing between them.

When Bane's enemies gain the upper hand, he is forced to turn to Lydia for help. Determined to prove her worth, Lydia soon discovers that carrying out Bane's mission will test her wits and her courage to the very limits.

When forces conspire against them from without and within, can their love survive? - Bethany House

Review: Rich in historical detail, "Against the Tide" transports readers to New England through the Navy Yards of Boston and to the wilderness of Vermont.  Elizabeth Camden reintroduces readers to Alexander Banebridge and Professor Van Bracken, who were both introduced in "The Lady of Bolton Hill."  “Against the Tide” is definitely a stand-alone novel, despite the connection.  I remembered very little about Bane and the Professor, but that did not leave any gaps in the book.

The plot of “Against the Tide” has moments of excitement and suspense throughout.  The tension between Bane and Lydia drives the first half of the novel.  They profess their feelings for each other early in the plot, and their strong feelings develop too fast for my personal taste. Circumstances ultimately keep Lydia and Bane apart, which adds more interest.  The second half of “Against the Tide” is propelled by tension as Professor Van Braken enters the scene. I didn't feel a complete connection to the main characters, but I did enjoy their strength and dedication to fighting injustice. 

I learned some heartbreaking details about opium and the past prevalence of the drug in children’s tonics. The scenes of opium withdrawal that Camden incorporates into the plot are somewhat intense, but they form a vivid picture of the effects of drug dependency. Camden’s talent for incorporating historical facts stands out in this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Bethany House.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden

Rating: 4 stars

Synopis: Despite being separated by social barriers, their love of music united the privileged Clara Endicott and impoverished Daniel Tremain during their youth.  With the passing of twelve years and an ocean of events and experiences that have impacted them in different ways, Clara and Daniel meet again.  While their deep friendship and love of music is a powerful bond that draws them closer together, their ideals and ambitions are a dividing force.  Through his railroad innovations, Daniel Tremain is a self-made "industrial titan" who seeks revenge from past losses.  Clara has transformed into a ambitious journalist and advocate for the poor.  In the shadows, an evil awaits that threatens both Daniel's and Clara's futures.   Will they overcome the obstacles that endanger their hearts and possibly their lives?

Review:  I must admit that I have been eagerly anticipating the release of The Lady of Bolton Hill since seeing its cover on the Bethany House website several months ago.  Because Elizabeth Camden is a debut author,  I was hoping that the plot would live up to the high expectations that I set based on the cover, and I am happy to say that I was not disappointed by either!  From the front cover to the back, including every page in between, The Lady of Bolton Hill is a keeper.  While the cover, with its silver embossed scroll, reflects the opulence of the time period, the thoughtful manner in which the young lady looks to the city outside represents Clara's position as a woman of significant social standing who is interested in the life beyond the privileges that she experiences. 

While Clara Endicott is indeed a lady of the nineteenth century, she is feisty and has an independent streak that is ahead of her time.  When Clara and Daniel reunite,  Daniel soon discovers that she is no longer the demure young lady that idolized him in the past.  The resulting tension and battle of wills was a highlight of the first half of the novel, and it reminded me of Mr. Thornton and Margaret in the movie North & South.  But enough said about that, I don't want to give away too much of the plot!

With the plot shared from a few characters' perspectives throughout the novel, The Lady of Bolton Hill is engaging from start to finish.  The plot is carried by tension created from the elements of romance, action, and suspense.  While the ending was overall satisfying, it certainly left me asking some questions, like "When is the sequel going be released?"

There must be a sequel, and  I am looking forward to another enchanting cover by Bethany House as well another engaging novel by the talented author, Elizabeth Camden. 

I  received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Just a Thought:  If you have watched North & South and read this novel, did you picture the actors who played Mr. Thornton and Margaret Hale as Daniel and Clara?