Review: Beyond the Clouds (The Women of Midtown) by Elizabeth Camden

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. To his surprise, 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?

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I always look forward to a new book from Elizabeth Camden. Her books never disappoint, and I always learn something new and interesting about history. I didn’t think this book could top the previous one, but it did. I loved it so much!

I wouldn’t say that Finn and Delia were very likable at the beginning of the story. Finn was quite arrogant, and Delia’s attitude and pursuit of a relationship with her much older boss were off-putting. But that didn’t hinder my enjoyment of the story one bit. In fact, as the story progressed, and I got to know them better, and as they experienced growth, they became some of my favorite characters I've read about in a long time.

It was interesting to see what it was like in Belgium during WWI. I had no idea! I also enjoyed the fact that Herbert Hoover was a character in the story. I didn’t know much about him before his presidency, so I appreciated learning more about him.

I loved seeing characters from the previous books and catching up with them a little bit. But even if you haven’t read the first two books, this can be read as a standalone perfectly fine.

This book gets a huge recommendation from me. It’s going on my favorites shelf. I loved it so much and can’t wait to see what Camden writes next.

I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Beyond the Clouds (The Women of Midtown) by Elizabeth Camden

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring Beyond the Clouds (The Women of Midtown) by Elizabeth Camden. I'm just about done with the ARC and am loving it!

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. To his surprise, 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?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Occupied Belgium

August 1917

Finn dragged himself another yard in the mud as agony shot through his mangled leg. He needed to hide. The pilot who shot him down had probably already landed at the German airfield two miles away, and it wouldn't be long before a search party was sent to capture him.

Friday 56

Delia stood on the granite staircase leading up to the New York Stock Exchange Building, scanning the crowds of businessmen hustling down the sidewalks of Wall Street.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: When Stars Light the Sky by Elizabeth Camden

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.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

What a fascinating story! Elizabeth Camden never fails to impress, and this latest release of hers just might be my favorite one yet!

It was really interesting to read about Germany right before and at the beginning of World War I. It was especially interesting getting a peek at it from the viewpoint of American diplomats and the ambassador working at the embassy in Berlin. It was a delicate balance to try to remain neutral during that time, and it was interesting to see how that neutrality was maintained.

I always learn something new when I read an Elizabeth Camden book. I had never wondered what it would’ve been like to work as a diplomat, let alone to be one in a country where war has just broken out, but this book has sparked an interest in me that makes me want to learn more. I love when a fictional book can do that.

I liked Inga right from the start. Her sense of joy was contagious! I loved how she could find something good in almost every situation. I also really liked Benedict. He was serious and a grump, but there was something so endearing and lovable about him. They couldn’t have been more different, and while they didn’t always get along, they made a great team.

If you’re a fan of romantic historical fiction, grab a copy of this book. You’ll love it! I can’t recommend it highly enough!

I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: When Stars Light the Sky by Elizabeth Camden

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring When Stars Light the Sky by Elizabeth Camden. Elizabeth Camden never disappoints. I'm loving this story so much! I thought I'd go ahead and share a snippet from the prologue and chapter one.

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.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Prologue

New York City 1898

America was supposed to be the land of opportunity, but it seemed more like a land of hunger and confusion to Inga.

 

Chapter One

Sixteen Years Later

June 1914

The Harbor of New York City

"Have you got any extra work for me?" Inga asked her supervisor at the end of her shift at the wireless office. There was usually extra work in the largest port in America. She earned a respectable salary as a wireless operator, communicating with ships coming and leaving the port, although she was always happy to earn a little more.

Friday 56

Benedict strode over to examine what had Larry so bewildered. It took only a fleeting look into the box to understand. Honestly, sometimes this woman was beyond belief.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Yesterday's Tides by Roseanna M. White

About the Book

In two world wars, intelligence and counterintelligence, prejudice, and self-sacrifice collide across two generations

In 1942, Evie Farrow is used to life on Ocracoke Island, where every day is the same--until the German U-boats haunting their waters begin to wreak havoc. And when special agent Sterling Bertrand is washed ashore at Evie's inn, her life is turned upside down. While Sterling's injuries keep him inn-bound for weeks, making him even more anxious about the SS officer he's tracking, he becomes increasingly intrigued by Evie, who seems to be hiding secrets of her own.

Decades earlier, in 1914, Englishman Remington Culbreth arrives at the Ocracoke Inn for the summer, never expecting to fall in love with Louisa Adair, the innkeeper's daughter. But when war breaks out in Europe, their relationship is put in jeopardy and may not survive what lies ahead for them.

As the ripples from the Great War rock Evie and Sterling's lives in World War II, it seems yesterday's tides may sweep them all into danger again today.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Wow, where do I even begin? What a masterful story. I was instantly pulled in, captivated, and completely engaged in it. It's the kind of book where the real world fades away and the words on the page come to full-color, vivid life.

This is a dual-timeline story, but a little different from the norm since both timelines are historical, taking place during WWI and WWII. I will say that in the beginning I was more drawn to the WWII timeline, but it wasn't long before the other one grabbed me and I found myself enjoying it just as much, maybe even more. Both timelines were chock full of wonderful, authentic, and three-dimensional characters. And while it was a little hard for me to keep them all straight at first, it didn't take long before I had them all figured out.

This book started great, but, somehow, just kept getting better and better. I loved it so much and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical romance.

I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Yesterday's Tides by Roseanna M. White

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Yesterday's Tides by Roseanna M. White releasing January 24, 2023.

About the Book

In 1942, Evie Farrow is used to life on Ocracoke Island, where every day is the same--until the German U-boats haunting their waters begin to wreak havoc. And when special agent Sterling Bertrand is washed ashore at Evie's inn, her life is turned upside down. While Sterling's injuries keep him inn-bound for weeks, making him even more anxious about the man he's tracking, he becomes increasingly intrigued by Evie, who seems to be hiding secrets of her own.

Decades earlier, in 1914, Englishman Remington Culbreth arrives at the Ocracoke Inn for the summer, but he doesn't count on falling in love with Louisa Adair, the innkeeper's daughter. When war breaks out in Europe, and their relationship is put in jeopardy, will their love survive?

As Evie and Sterling work to track down an elusive German agent, they unravel mysteries that go back a generation. The ripples from the Great War are still rocking their lives, and it seems yesterday's tides may sweep them all into danger again today.

Bestselling and award-winning author Roseanna M. White whisks you away to two periods fraught with peril in this sweeping and romantic dual-time tale.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Yours is the Night by Amanda Dykes

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Yours is the Night by Amanda Dykes releasing August 3.

About the Book

A mysterious song in the forest . . .
A discovery in war-torn France . . .
A journey toward hope.

The trenches of the Great War are a shadowed place. Though Platoon Sergeant Matthew Petticrew arrived there with a past long marked by shadow, the realities of battle bring new wounds--carving within him a longing for light, and a resolve to fight for it.
One night, Matthew and his comrades are enraptured by a sound so pure, a voice so ethereal, it offers reprieve--even if only for a moment. Soon, rumors sweep the trenches from others who have heard the lullaby too. "The Angel of Argonne," they call the voice: a mysterious presence who leaves behind wreaths on unmarked graves.

Raised in the wild depths of the Forest of Argonne, Mireilles finds her reclusive world rocked when war crashes into her idyllic home, taking much from her. When Matthew and his two unlikely companions discover Mireilles, they must embark on a journey that will change each of them forever . . . and perhaps, at long last, spark light into the dark.

On the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier comes an emotive tale inspired by the courageous soldiers of World War I.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: On Wings of Devotion (The Codebreakers #2) by Roseanna M. White

About the Book

All of England thinks Phillip Camden a monster--a man who deliberately caused the deaths of his squadron. But as nurse Arabelle Denler watches the so-dubbed "Black Heart" every day, she sees something far different: a hurting man desperate for mercy. And when their paths twist together and he declares himself her new protector, she realizes she has her own role to play in his healing.

Phillip Camden would have preferred to die that day with his squadron rather than be recruited to the Admiralty's codebreaking division. The threats he receives daily are no great surprise and, in his opinion, well deserved. What comes as a shock is the reborn desire to truly live that Arabelle inspires in him.

But when an old acquaintance shows up and seems set on using him in a plot that has the codebreakers of Room 40 in a frenzy, new affections are put to the test.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

This book, y'all! It was so, so good! It's Roseanna White at her finest.

Ara and Camden were wonderful characters. Ara was an admirable lady. She had such a giving and selfless heart. She was so quick to offer forgiveness, even to those that had wronged her or the ones she loved. I also thought it was really sweet that she prayed for Camden even before she knew him. She glimpsed a hurting soul and wanted to help him. If only the world could be more like her.

I have a hard time resisting a broody leading man and that's exactly what Cam was. I was drawn to him right from the start. I hurt for him, though. The guilt he felt for something that happened to his squadron, tore him up inside. He was devastated, but hid it behind charm, bravado, and jests.

I could gush about this book forever, but I know there's no way I'll be able to do it justice. I'll just end by saying, go grab yourself a copy. You don't want to miss out on this gem.

Five Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: On Wings of Devotion (The Codebreakers #2) by Roseanna M. White

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring On Wings of Devotion (The Codebreakers #2) by Roseanna M. White, a historical romance that takes place during WWI.

About the Book

All of England thinks Phillip Camden a monster--a man who deliberately caused the deaths of his squadron. But as nurse Arabelle Denler watches the so-dubbed "Black Heart" every day, she sees something far different: a hurting man desperate for mercy. And when their paths twist together and he declares himself her new protector, she realizes she has her own role to play in his healing.

Phillip Camden would have preferred to die that day with his squadron rather than be recruited to the Admiralty's codebreaking division. The threats he receives daily are no great surprise and, in his opinion, well deserved. What comes as a shock is the reborn desire to truly live that Arabelle inspires in him.

But when an old acquaintance shows up and seems set on using him in a plot that has the codebreakers of Room 40 in a frenzy, new affections are put to the test.

Book Beginning

A stranger stalking down the street shouldn't make her hands tremble in anticipation. Arabelle Denler forced her breathing to calm, forced an easy smile to her lips for the soldier whose bandage she'd just changed, and stood with the old bandage balled up in her bowl. "Is there anything else you need, Captain?"

Friday 56

Keep your head. That had never been his forte. He forced air in through his nose, out through his teeth, and stomped over to the window, yanking the blackout curtains away a few inches so he could look down into the dismal winter street.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Number of Love (Codebreakers #1) by Roseanna M. White

About the Book
Three years into the Great War, England's greatest asset is their intelligence network--field agents risking their lives to gather information, and codebreakers able to crack every German telegram. Margot De Wilde thrives in the environment of the secretive Room 40, where she spends her days deciphering intercepted messages. But when her world is turned upside down by an unexpected loss, for the first time in her life numbers aren't enough.

Drake Elton returns wounded from the field, followed by an enemy who just won't give up. He's smitten quickly by the intelligent Margot, but how can he convince a girl who lives entirely in her mind that sometimes life's answers lie in the heart?

Amid biological warfare, encrypted letters, and a German spy who wants to destroy not just them but others they love, Margot and Drake will have to work together to save themselves from the very secrets that brought them together.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

I'm at a loss for words to describe how wonderful this book was. To say it's good is a vast understatement. I've loved all of Roseanna White's books, but this one takes the cake. She's out done herself here. The Number of Love is my favorite one yet. In fact, I think it's the best book I've read this year (and I've read quite a few great ones).

Time flew by while I was reading. I'd look up at the clock and be shocked by how much time had passed. I was completely immersed in the story, feeling as if I was right there, back in 1917, with these characters.

With a sarcastic wit and a sharp, brilliant mind, Margot's a leading lady unlike any other. The way that her mind worked, her way with numbers, was so fascinating. Drake was a perfect match for her. His respect and his patience with her was so sweet. And I have to say, I loved all the appearances of the characters from some of White's previous books. It was so fun to see them again.

I can't recommend this highly enough. It was exciting and romantic and just an all-around awesome story. It's one not to be missed!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

Five Stars

Review: A Song Unheard (Shadows Over England #2) by Roseanna M. White

About the Book

Willa Forsythe is both a violin prodigy and top-notch thief, which makes her the perfect choice for a crucial task at the outset of World War I--to steal a cypher from a famous violinist currently in Wales.

Lukas De Wilde has enjoyed the life of fame he's won--until now, when being recognized nearly gets him killed. Everyone wants the key to his father's work as a cryptologist. And Lukas fears that his mother and sister, who have vanished in the wake of the German invasion of Belgium, will pay the price. The only light he finds is meeting the intriguing Willa Forsythe.

But danger presses in from every side, and Willa knows what Lukas doesn't--that she must betray him and find that cypher, or her own family will pay the price as surely as his has.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Review

Five Stars

When the mysterious Mr. V shows up with an important mission for Willa, to steal a cypher from a world-renowned violinist, she agrees. Lukas De Wilde, famous violinist, is in Wales as part of a touring orchestra full of Belgian refugees. He's hoping to earn enough money to head back to Belgium to search for his mother and sister who are missing. Little do they know how much their meeting will change both of their lives.

I've been really excited for A Song Unheard after reading and loving the first book in this series, A Name Unknown. It did not disappoint! And while I didn't think it was possible, I liked this book even better than the first. I loved getting reacquainted with many of the characters and meeting some new ones too! Willa's a very strong and determined woman who's quite the brilliant musician, as well. And Lukas! I instantly liked him and really felt for his situation. I absolutely loved it when Lukas and Willa shared the page. They had such great chemistry and their back and forth banter was so entertaining.

There was mystery, intrigue, and suspense that kept building to the end when I couldn't read it fast enough. I love cryptography and so I found that element of the story to be very interesting. Regretfully, I don't remember learning a whole lot about World War I in school and so I had no idea of many of the horrors that occurred in Belgium. This book is filled with so much interesting and, sometimes, heart-wrenching facts of history. I feel like I learned so much by reading this book.

A Song Unheard did take me a bit longer to read, but that in no way means I didn't like it. On the contrary, I absolutely adored it! It was lovely and a book that I savored, enjoying my trip back in time. I seriously can't recommend this book highly enough! Start with the first book and then dive right into this one!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

To connect with author Roseanna M. White, visit her on her website, Facebook, and Twitter.

Review: A Name Unknown (Shadows Over England #1) by Roseanna M. White

Summary

Edwardian Romance and History Gains a Twist of Suspense

Rosemary Gresham has no family beyond the band of former urchins that helped her survive as a girl in the mean streets of London. Grown now, they concentrate on stealing high-value items and have learned how to blend into upper-class society. But when Rosemary must determine whether a certain wealthy gentleman is loyal to Britain or to Germany, she is in for the challenge of a lifetime. How does one steal a family's history, their very name?

Peter Holstein, given his family's German blood, writes his popular series of adventure novels under a pen name. With European politics boiling and his own neighbors suspicious of him, Peter debates whether it might be best to change his name for good. When Rosemary shows up at his door pretending to be a historian and offering to help him trace his family history, his question might be answered.

But as the two work together and Rosemary sees his gracious reaction to his neighbors' scornful attacks, she wonders if her assignment is going down the wrong path. Is it too late to help him prove that he's more than his name?

Amazon / Goodreads / Kobo

Barnes & Noble / ChristianBook.com

My Review

Five Stars

I'm a big fan of Roseanna White's, having read and loved many of her books. I was so excited when I first heard about her new series. I couldn't wait to delve right into 'A Name Unknown'. And oh my goodness, was it good or what? I didn't think it was possible, but 'A Name Unknown' is her best book yet!

At the brink of World War I, Peter Holstein is constantly looked at with suspicion and is accused of espionage because of his last name, his German heritage. Even though he's an Englishman through and through, having lived in Cornwall his whole life, some people wish for him to go back to Germany. Rosemary Gresham, thief extraordinaire, is sent on a mission by the mysterious Mr. V to discover the loyalties of Peter Holstein, going undercover as a librarian to uncover the truth.

I instantly fell for Peter. He's such a lovable and utterly endearing guy. He's a gentleman in the truest sense of the word and just an all around good guy. The strength of his faith and the way he handles himself amidst such harsh judgments is truly admirable. I liked Rosemary despite the... unconventional way she supports herself and her family. I wasn't sure I would, but she's just doing the only thing she can think of to care for her loved ones. I was totally rooting for her.

This was a pretty big book, but it never dragged. It kept me engaged throughout the entirety of the story. It started out great and just kept getting better and better the further I got into it. I seriously can't recommend 'A Name Unknown' highly enough! Any lover of historical fiction is sure to be captivated by this wonderful novel. I cannot wait for the sequel 'A Song Unheard'. It's going to the top of my TBR list as soon as it's out!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own honest opinion.

To learn more about Roseanna M. White, visit her website,Facebook page, Twitter, and blog.

Waiting on Wednesday: High as the Heavens by Kate Breslin

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine that highlights upcoming eagerly anticipated releases.

This week I'm featuring High as the Heavens by Kate Breslin releasing June 6.

Summary

Page-Turning Intrigue and Romance from an Up-and-Coming Historical Romance Talent
In 1917, Evelyn Marche is just one of many women who has been widowed by the war. A British nurse trapped in German-occupied Brussels, she spends her days working at a hospital and her nights as a waitress in her aunt and uncle's café. Eve also has a carefully guarded secret keeping her in constant danger: She's a spy working for a Belgian resistance group in league with the British Secret Service.

When a British plane crashes in Brussels Park, Eve is the first to reach the downed plane and is shocked to discover she recognizes the badly injured pilot. British RFC Captain Simon Forrester is now a prisoner of war, and Eve knows he could be shot as a spy at any time. She risks her own life to hide him from the Germans, but as the danger mounts and the secrets between them grow, their chance of survival looks grim. And even if they do make it out alive, the truth of what lies between them may be more than any love can overcome.

Why I need it...

Kate Breslin's first book For Such a Time was one of my favorite reads in 2014 (I still think about it today) and this new book sounds so good!  I haven't read as many World War I novels as I have World War II, so High as the Heavens sounds like a great one to add to my list!

What book are you waiting on?  Leave a comment below and let me know.