Tuesday 26 July 2016

From This Moment - Elizabeth Camden

With an artistic talent that has made her both renowned and revered, Stella West leaves London, England, under a cloud, to live in Boston.

Stubborn determination ensures that the bright, young and beautiful young woman will unravel the thickly spun web surrounding the mysterious death of her beloved sister Gwendolen. Stella knows that she wouldn't have drowned - Gwen was a strong swimmer.

Romulus White - charming, lively and humorous publisher of the highly respected 'Scientific World' has 'courted' the celebrated artist (by letter) in the hopes she would join his team. Her illustrations are key to move his magazine to heady new heights. Although he would also have to convince Evelyn, his managing editor and cousin that the expense would be worth it.

A confirmed bachelor, Romulus is unsettled by the instant attraction to Stella. It's an unwelcome feeling - one he dare not repeat. For Stella, initially amused by his correspondence, she soon realizes that the educated young man will be a valuable ally in a society that she knows little of. With his help, perhaps she can break the silence that surrounds the untimely death of Gwendolen. However, both are spirited people, fiercely independent, yet unwilling to accept that they need each other.

By assisting Stella is Romulus opening himself up to the intimidation that they young woman has been experiencing? Will his help mean Scientific World failing as well a huge dent in his pride?

An engaging story with great references to the building of the underground system in Boston. Camden's characters are all fully developed with the Stella and Romulus both being incredibly likeable. The mystery surrounding the death of Gwendolen has been well thought out. The subplot of Evelyn and her estranged husband creates an extra depth to the storyline. Whilst it felt a little repetitive and the flow wasn't quite there, it was overall a good read.

With a good twist to the mystery and sweet underlying love story the main message for me was to have faith - not only in yourself but other people. A recommended read especially fans of historical fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book to review from Bethany House as part of their blogger program. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not expected to give a positive critique.

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