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The Star of Camp Greene
Sometimes heroism is found in dreams deferred.
Charlotte, NC. 1918. Broadway darling Calla Connolly had it a rising career on the stage and a loving fiancé, a fellow stage actor. But after his tragic death early in the war, Calla is touring the American training camps, hoping to convince General Pershing to let her tour the French front to cheer the men and honor her fiancé's memory. But her hopes are dashed when she contracts Spanish flu while performing at Camp Greene.
While convalescing, Calla inadvertently overhears a sensitive Army secret and is ordered to remain at Camp Greene for the duration of the war while her former mentor and rival steals her tour out from under her. Having no choice but to stay at the camp, she becomes the resident performer and forms attachments to several musician soldiers.
When she falls in love with the man responsible for trapping her at camp, the mission she's sworn to keep secret threatens the men she's come to care for. Calla is forced to decide what her dreams are worth--and if the future she never expected might only be possible if she lets those dreams go.
Charlotte, NC. 1918. Broadway darling Calla Connolly had it a rising career on the stage and a loving fiancé, a fellow stage actor. But after his tragic death early in the war, Calla is touring the American training camps, hoping to convince General Pershing to let her tour the French front to cheer the men and honor her fiancé's memory. But her hopes are dashed when she contracts Spanish flu while performing at Camp Greene.
While convalescing, Calla inadvertently overhears a sensitive Army secret and is ordered to remain at Camp Greene for the duration of the war while her former mentor and rival steals her tour out from under her. Having no choice but to stay at the camp, she becomes the resident performer and forms attachments to several musician soldiers.
When she falls in love with the man responsible for trapping her at camp, the mission she's sworn to keep secret threatens the men she's come to care for. Calla is forced to decide what her dreams are worth--and if the future she never expected might only be possible if she lets those dreams go.
368 pages, Paperback
First published May 6, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
May 18, 2025
Charlotte, NC. 1918. Calla Connolly had career on the stage as a singer and after her fiancé Caspar was killed at the Somme she's touring American training grounds, hoping to convince General Pershing to let her do the same on the French front to cheer on the doughboys.
While preforming at Camp Greene she catches the Spanish flu and while recovering she overhears a plan to stop the Germans advancing through France and she’s ordered to remain here for the rest of the war. Calla moves into Hostess House, here she meets women who are waiting for their husbands to be sent off to fight and she becomes good friends with Nurse Goldie and her fiancé Guy, Sidney and William and Colonel Jesse Erickson.
I received a copy of The Star of Camp Greene by Joy Callaway from Edelweiss and Harper Muse in exchange for an honest review. The story did drag a little at the start, I assume the author is giving the reader an idea of what was happening at the time, with the Spanish flu outbreak and being worried about the German advance and so they understood the situation.
Four stars from me and a narrative about a real training camp, war, friendship, music, comradery, not being sent overseas and the two main characters Calla and Jesse grew close, advocates and confidants.
I recommend reading The Star or Camp Greene if you're interested what it was like in America during The Great War, training camps and getting very close to the end of the hostilities.
While preforming at Camp Greene she catches the Spanish flu and while recovering she overhears a plan to stop the Germans advancing through France and she’s ordered to remain here for the rest of the war. Calla moves into Hostess House, here she meets women who are waiting for their husbands to be sent off to fight and she becomes good friends with Nurse Goldie and her fiancé Guy, Sidney and William and Colonel Jesse Erickson.
I received a copy of The Star of Camp Greene by Joy Callaway from Edelweiss and Harper Muse in exchange for an honest review. The story did drag a little at the start, I assume the author is giving the reader an idea of what was happening at the time, with the Spanish flu outbreak and being worried about the German advance and so they understood the situation.
Four stars from me and a narrative about a real training camp, war, friendship, music, comradery, not being sent overseas and the two main characters Calla and Jesse grew close, advocates and confidants.
I recommend reading The Star or Camp Greene if you're interested what it was like in America during The Great War, training camps and getting very close to the end of the hostilities.
May 8, 2025
"Sometimes heroism is found in dreams deferred."
Calla Connolly is a Broadway star during WWI. She is on a tour of American army camps to entertain and inspire the soldiers. When her fiancée is tragically killed in the war, she hopes for General Pershing to approve a tour to the men in France to honor her fiance's memory. Unfortunately, it is 1918 North Carolina, and she contracts the Spanish flu. This leads to more disappointment for not only does another entertainer swoop in to steal her tour, she overhears a military secret while in the hospital and is confined by a colonel to remain at Camp Greene. How will she make her dreams come true?
This is a meticulously researched story of inspiration and second chances. It is also historical fiction surrounding the Spanish flu, WWI, military camps, and entertainer tours. These are subjects that I have read little about in 1918 America. I am more familiar with the European history of these topics. The contrast between grief, war, and a pandemic against Calla falling in love again and forging a new path for herself at Camp Greene makes it a more uplifting read than most covering WWI and the Spanish flu. The audiobook performance by Brittany Pressley is outstanding.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Harper Muse Audiobooks, and Joy Callaway for an advance listening copy in exchange for my honest review. 🎧
Calla Connolly is a Broadway star during WWI. She is on a tour of American army camps to entertain and inspire the soldiers. When her fiancée is tragically killed in the war, she hopes for General Pershing to approve a tour to the men in France to honor her fiance's memory. Unfortunately, it is 1918 North Carolina, and she contracts the Spanish flu. This leads to more disappointment for not only does another entertainer swoop in to steal her tour, she overhears a military secret while in the hospital and is confined by a colonel to remain at Camp Greene. How will she make her dreams come true?
This is a meticulously researched story of inspiration and second chances. It is also historical fiction surrounding the Spanish flu, WWI, military camps, and entertainer tours. These are subjects that I have read little about in 1918 America. I am more familiar with the European history of these topics. The contrast between grief, war, and a pandemic against Calla falling in love again and forging a new path for herself at Camp Greene makes it a more uplifting read than most covering WWI and the Spanish flu. The audiobook performance by Brittany Pressley is outstanding.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Harper Muse Audiobooks, and Joy Callaway for an advance listening copy in exchange for my honest review. 🎧
January 28, 2025
Imagine if Taylor Swift was performing at a military camp, overheard a war secret, then was forced to remain at the camp under false pretenses. THAT is this novel, with fictional star Calla Connolly in the spotlight. AND it is so well done. Spectacular writing and a compulsive storyline really make this book sing. It's another winner by Joy Callaway!
November 28, 2024
I don’t usually get this wordy for a review but I am thankful to have gotten an early copy! I had never read a book about World War I. I enjoyed the setting and learning the history of the NC camp. Like “What The Mountains Remember,” the book was so descriptive I felt like I was there but it wasn’t too much detail. I stayed engaged throughout the whole story.This is a book I would consider to be clean - language and romance. I enjoyed the music theme and the power it has for providing hope, comfort, and healing. This book also highlights the pain involved with leadership, and the devastation that can come with love, illness, war, and loss. Many thanks to the brave men and women and their families who voluntarily serve our country. Highly recommend this book, thank you Joy!
May 12, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. I was drawn in right away and fell in love with Calla and her story. I love her heart for others and her heart for entertaining the soldiers and bringing some joy to them. While she was at Camp Green after surviving the Spanish Flu, she is exposed to military secrets and is ordered to stay at Camp Green. She is required to travel and be with the head Jessie. As time goes on, he grows on her. She begins putting together shows for the camp and using soldiers from camp and allowing them to showcase their talents. She has such love for them and wants to get them noticed. For their talents. Then there is a huge issue which results in her being arrested on base. Read the book to see what happens.
I loved this book!!!
I loved this book!!!
October 4, 2024
The Star of Camp Green is a compelling read that had me putting other things off in order to keep turning the pages. Meticulously researched and full of heart, it illuminates a stateside training camp during WWI and is full of secrets, hope, jealousy, friendship, danger, and love. Readers will be eager to visit Calloway’s backlist if they aren’t already a fan.
January 4, 2025
I have a confession: I am completely, utterly in love with Calla Connolly. If you’ve ever wanted to meet a character who leaps off the page, steals your heart, and becomes someone you never want to say goodbye to, then this book is for you. Calla is that rare, wild soul who craves the spotlight, is fueled by her gargantuan heart, and is utterly, magnetically alive. She’s the kind of woman who sings because she has to sing, dances because she can’t not dance, and is unapologetically herself in every situation—even when the universe seems determined to lock her away.
Set during World War I, Calla inadvertently overhears a top-secret conversation, and as a result, she’s ordered to stay at Camp Greene for the duration of the war. Now imagine a spunky, applause-craving, larger-than-life woman being told she must sit still and be quiet… Yeah, it’s as chaotic and heartwarming as you can imagine. The camp is her prison, but also her salvation, because it’s here where she finds the kindred spirits she didn’t know she needed.
What unfolds is pure magic. Calla doesn’t just exist at Camp Greene—she thrives. Through her, we witness the powerful bond that forms among the soldiers and musicians, who come together to create something beautiful in the midst of such turmoil. They make music that transcends war, creating a rhythm and harmony that fills the pages with so much joy and hope.
I couldn’t put this book down, and I didn’t want to. Calla is the character I’ve been craving—a woman who is full of fire, compassion, humor, and strength. And the friendships she forges in that camp? Don’t even get me started. The love and loyalty between her and her new “family” felt like a warm embrace, and I can honestly say Calla is in my heart forever.
This book is a love letter to music, to the human spirit, and to the unexpected connections that change us. And the best part? Calla is still singing in my heart.
If you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for a woman who refuses to be silenced, then look no further. I want to be Calla Connolly’s BFF, and if you read this book, I know you will too.
Set during World War I, Calla inadvertently overhears a top-secret conversation, and as a result, she’s ordered to stay at Camp Greene for the duration of the war. Now imagine a spunky, applause-craving, larger-than-life woman being told she must sit still and be quiet… Yeah, it’s as chaotic and heartwarming as you can imagine. The camp is her prison, but also her salvation, because it’s here where she finds the kindred spirits she didn’t know she needed.
What unfolds is pure magic. Calla doesn’t just exist at Camp Greene—she thrives. Through her, we witness the powerful bond that forms among the soldiers and musicians, who come together to create something beautiful in the midst of such turmoil. They make music that transcends war, creating a rhythm and harmony that fills the pages with so much joy and hope.
I couldn’t put this book down, and I didn’t want to. Calla is the character I’ve been craving—a woman who is full of fire, compassion, humor, and strength. And the friendships she forges in that camp? Don’t even get me started. The love and loyalty between her and her new “family” felt like a warm embrace, and I can honestly say Calla is in my heart forever.
This book is a love letter to music, to the human spirit, and to the unexpected connections that change us. And the best part? Calla is still singing in my heart.
If you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for a woman who refuses to be silenced, then look no further. I want to be Calla Connolly’s BFF, and if you read this book, I know you will too.
April 30, 2025
“The stage was the only thing that prevented sorrow from swallowing me whole.”
I really enjoyed Joy Callaway’s last novel,What the Mountains Remember. Partly because I imagined Calla acted by Rachel Brosnahan just like the Marvelous Mrs Maisel.
This well-researched, immersive historical fiction kept my interest start to finish with colorful characters, solid plot line, and a compelling romance. Set stateside, in a WWI training camp amid the Spanish flu, in a southern (segregated) mill town, the book comes alive with soldiers, nurses, townspeople, fiancées, mourners, defectors, troublemakers, and entertainers from different backgrounds, brought together for common cause but with varying sentiments: proud, patriotic, terrified, duty bound, despondent…
Calla Connolly is a performer who lost her first love to the war effort and channels her mourning into performing for soldiers, lifting their spirits to buoy her own.
“Terror is only alleviated by joy. Those allowed moments to remember who they are outside of this war will find the strength to face their darkest hour.”
Apparently Charlotte bid for the opportunity to be a camp town, seeing it as a way to increase its population and boost its economy. From the author’s note: “When the United States entered the war in April 1917, the army was not what it is today. It was a small organization made up of only 133,000 soldiers, and the army’s operations were mainly focused on keeping peace in the Philippines. At the declaration of war, the army was suddenly tasked with drafting, training, and organizing three million new soldiers.”
Thanks to NetGalley for an opportunity to read this advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed Joy Callaway’s last novel,What the Mountains Remember. Partly because I imagined Calla acted by Rachel Brosnahan just like the Marvelous Mrs Maisel.
This well-researched, immersive historical fiction kept my interest start to finish with colorful characters, solid plot line, and a compelling romance. Set stateside, in a WWI training camp amid the Spanish flu, in a southern (segregated) mill town, the book comes alive with soldiers, nurses, townspeople, fiancées, mourners, defectors, troublemakers, and entertainers from different backgrounds, brought together for common cause but with varying sentiments: proud, patriotic, terrified, duty bound, despondent…
Calla Connolly is a performer who lost her first love to the war effort and channels her mourning into performing for soldiers, lifting their spirits to buoy her own.
“Terror is only alleviated by joy. Those allowed moments to remember who they are outside of this war will find the strength to face their darkest hour.”
Apparently Charlotte bid for the opportunity to be a camp town, seeing it as a way to increase its population and boost its economy. From the author’s note: “When the United States entered the war in April 1917, the army was not what it is today. It was a small organization made up of only 133,000 soldiers, and the army’s operations were mainly focused on keeping peace in the Philippines. At the declaration of war, the army was suddenly tasked with drafting, training, and organizing three million new soldiers.”
Thanks to NetGalley for an opportunity to read this advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2025
I equate this auditory experience to nails on a chalkboard. christine lakin really did me dirty with how whiny she made this female protagonist sound.
✰ DNF
platform: Libro.FM ALC
✰ DNF
platform: Libro.FM ALC
May 12, 2025
I LOVED Joy Callaway’s newest novel, THE STAR OF CAMP GREENE!
This historical fiction novel is set during WWI at Camp Greene, a former army training camp in Charlotte, NC. Calla Connolley, a famous Broadway star, is on tour performing for the troops preparing to go to war. During her stop at Camp Greene, she contracts the Spanish Flu and winds up recovering at the camp. She accidentally overhears top-secret military intel and is grounded at Camp Greene until further notice. She is assigned a chaperone, Colonel Jesse Erickson. At first, Calla and Jesse get off on the wrong foot. Jesse is less than pleased to babysit a Broadway star, while Calla is upset that being stuck at Camp Greene will prevent her from traveling overseas to perform for the troops at the front line in tribute to her fiancé, a fallen soldier.
As the two are forced to be in each other’s company, they discover they have more in common than either realized. With Calla still mourning the loss of her fiancé and Jesse preparing for battle, they try to deny their feelings for each other. However, when things quickly change with the war and Calla and Jesse are separated, Calla is sent back to her glamorous Broadway life while trying to hold tight to the connections she made at Camp Greene.
THE STAR OF CAMP GREENE is a beautiful novel about love, patriotism, and the power of music. I loved Calla as a character and her mission to lift the spirits of soldiers and their loved ones. Not only does Calla perform, but she also gets soldiers involved with her performances through singing and playing instruments, helping take their focus off the battles ahead. As a Broadway fan, I loved the peek into old Broadway through Calla! I also enjoyed learning about Camp Greene, which is no longer around, and the training conditions the military went through during WWI.
I highly recommend adding THE STAR OF CAMP GREENE to your summer TBR! This would be an especially excellent read over Memorial Day weekend or around Independence Day. Also, if you are a fan of Broadway or enjoy military stories, this is a must-read!
Thank you to Joy Callaway & Harper Muse for an ARC!
This historical fiction novel is set during WWI at Camp Greene, a former army training camp in Charlotte, NC. Calla Connolley, a famous Broadway star, is on tour performing for the troops preparing to go to war. During her stop at Camp Greene, she contracts the Spanish Flu and winds up recovering at the camp. She accidentally overhears top-secret military intel and is grounded at Camp Greene until further notice. She is assigned a chaperone, Colonel Jesse Erickson. At first, Calla and Jesse get off on the wrong foot. Jesse is less than pleased to babysit a Broadway star, while Calla is upset that being stuck at Camp Greene will prevent her from traveling overseas to perform for the troops at the front line in tribute to her fiancé, a fallen soldier.
As the two are forced to be in each other’s company, they discover they have more in common than either realized. With Calla still mourning the loss of her fiancé and Jesse preparing for battle, they try to deny their feelings for each other. However, when things quickly change with the war and Calla and Jesse are separated, Calla is sent back to her glamorous Broadway life while trying to hold tight to the connections she made at Camp Greene.
THE STAR OF CAMP GREENE is a beautiful novel about love, patriotism, and the power of music. I loved Calla as a character and her mission to lift the spirits of soldiers and their loved ones. Not only does Calla perform, but she also gets soldiers involved with her performances through singing and playing instruments, helping take their focus off the battles ahead. As a Broadway fan, I loved the peek into old Broadway through Calla! I also enjoyed learning about Camp Greene, which is no longer around, and the training conditions the military went through during WWI.
I highly recommend adding THE STAR OF CAMP GREENE to your summer TBR! This would be an especially excellent read over Memorial Day weekend or around Independence Day. Also, if you are a fan of Broadway or enjoy military stories, this is a must-read!
Thank you to Joy Callaway & Harper Muse for an ARC!
April 26, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Thank you to Harper Muse Audiobooks, Joy Calloway, and NetGalley for this ALC. Everything in this review is my true and honest opinion.
I absolutely adored this audiobook! To me, it was the perfect blend of historical fiction and romance. As a public health professional (who works especially in infectious diseases), I appreciated the inclusion of the Spanish influenza and how that played such a big role in the overall premise of the story. I appreciated even the little details like noting characters putting on cloth masks as needed (which was a historically accurate practice for medical and hospital wards during that time).
Being from NC, I also appreciated the story taking place at Camp Greene/in Charlotte and could tell the amount of research that went into representing the Camp and Charlotte accurately for that time period. I appreciated the times during the book where segregation was noted and how Calla felt it was wrong and didn’t understand it. It was a good balance of not just brushing it off while also acknowledging that’s accurate for how things would have been during this time period.
At first I wasn’t sure how interesting a story with a performer stuck at a military camp for so long would be but as it turns out, A LOT can happen during that time, even with the setting remaining the same!
This book did a great job, in my opinion, of portraying the anxiety of being at a military training camp during a major world war and the fears of being sent to the front not just from the soldiers but also their families/loved ones and everyone working at the camp.
Finally, the narrator, Brittany Pressley, did a great job and was easy to listen to!
Thank you to Harper Muse Audiobooks, Joy Calloway, and NetGalley for this ALC. Everything in this review is my true and honest opinion.
I absolutely adored this audiobook! To me, it was the perfect blend of historical fiction and romance. As a public health professional (who works especially in infectious diseases), I appreciated the inclusion of the Spanish influenza and how that played such a big role in the overall premise of the story. I appreciated even the little details like noting characters putting on cloth masks as needed (which was a historically accurate practice for medical and hospital wards during that time).
Being from NC, I also appreciated the story taking place at Camp Greene/in Charlotte and could tell the amount of research that went into representing the Camp and Charlotte accurately for that time period. I appreciated the times during the book where segregation was noted and how Calla felt it was wrong and didn’t understand it. It was a good balance of not just brushing it off while also acknowledging that’s accurate for how things would have been during this time period.
At first I wasn’t sure how interesting a story with a performer stuck at a military camp for so long would be but as it turns out, A LOT can happen during that time, even with the setting remaining the same!
This book did a great job, in my opinion, of portraying the anxiety of being at a military training camp during a major world war and the fears of being sent to the front not just from the soldiers but also their families/loved ones and everyone working at the camp.
Finally, the narrator, Brittany Pressley, did a great job and was easy to listen to!
April 14, 2025
So fun reading about Charlotte in history. I had no idea there was a massive army camp in WW1, and love reading stories set here in general so I loved the landscape of the book right off the bat.
The characters of Calla, Jesse and so many others were rich and relatable. I really loved how their relationships grew, how they fought for each other and valued their friendships. The music and theater were a lot of fun to balance out a war focus and some real grief from it.
Whether it was intentional in the storyline or not, the concept of injustices or severe blows and setbacks you didn’t see coming, but later finding out it’s what actually worked things out for the best and for the characters benefit was just so inspiring. I loved all of that and enjoyed the book a lot.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.
The characters of Calla, Jesse and so many others were rich and relatable. I really loved how their relationships grew, how they fought for each other and valued their friendships. The music and theater were a lot of fun to balance out a war focus and some real grief from it.
Whether it was intentional in the storyline or not, the concept of injustices or severe blows and setbacks you didn’t see coming, but later finding out it’s what actually worked things out for the best and for the characters benefit was just so inspiring. I loved all of that and enjoyed the book a lot.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.
May 8, 2025
This was a fantastic WWI historical fiction story about Calla Callaway, a broadway star mourning her dead fiance who contracts the Spanish flu, overhears classified information and is forced to remain at the Camp Greene army base in North Carolina.
Calla forms bonds with some fellow musicians while staying at the camp and ends up falling for the commander responsible for her confinement. This was a great look at a different side of WWI entertainers and excellent on audio narrated by my very fav, Brittany Pressley.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperMuse for an early audio and #gifted finished copy in exchange for my honest review! Big thanks also to UpLit reads for choosing me for this campaign readalong!
Calla forms bonds with some fellow musicians while staying at the camp and ends up falling for the commander responsible for her confinement. This was a great look at a different side of WWI entertainers and excellent on audio narrated by my very fav, Brittany Pressley.
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperMuse for an early audio and #gifted finished copy in exchange for my honest review! Big thanks also to UpLit reads for choosing me for this campaign readalong!
April 6, 2025
Young and musically-talented Calla Connolly’s only goal is to perform her songs at the front in France during WWI. This is to appease her late-fiancé’s (Casper) wish prior to his death. Unfortunately, after accidentally overhearing some classified information, Calla is ordered to be stationed at Camp Greene in the US with the dashing Colonel Erickson as her keeper. With what seemed like a terrible situation turns out to be something completely different. Will she ever get to fulfill her and her deceased fiancé’s dream? Will she be able to open her heart up again?
It’s always interesting to read a different perspective when it comes to war-oriented books. I have to admit I never read one that focuses on the protagonist wanting to go to the front in order to sing and perform for those fighting. I give the author kudos for trying something different.
Unfortunately, I feel the plot fell short in some areas. Though I thought adding the musical part was interesting and fun (because music always brings a smile to my face when l’m down), I found the amount of lyrics and descriptions of the plays performed a bit tedious to read. There also wasn’t much action here either. There was one plot point where some characters are held in containment that got me reading faster, but then it was resolved quickly in a kind of bizarre and unrealistic way.
The romance had its ups and downs for me. Trying to fulfill Casper’s dream is noble, but a very dangerous request. In a way, it didn’t settle well with me that Calla wanted to go into a warring country to sing for the soldiers. It seemed like a nonsensical way to get killed. The present love story seemed a bit rushed and kind of fleeting since Calla’s love interest believed she betrayed him and she never believed that in him. Perhaps it was the nature of the time during war, but it wasn’t particularly the best love story I’ve read. The ending did wrap the story up well, which is always positive.
Overall, “The Star of Camp Greene” is a historical fiction work that I’m sure has its audience. I would recommend it for those who enjoy this genre with light descriptions of what happens during war, and do not mind a musical aspect with some drama/competition involved.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher (HarperCollins Focus | Harper Muse) for giving me an the opportunity to read “The Star of Camp Greene”. All opinions are my own.
It’s always interesting to read a different perspective when it comes to war-oriented books. I have to admit I never read one that focuses on the protagonist wanting to go to the front in order to sing and perform for those fighting. I give the author kudos for trying something different.
Unfortunately, I feel the plot fell short in some areas. Though I thought adding the musical part was interesting and fun (because music always brings a smile to my face when l’m down), I found the amount of lyrics and descriptions of the plays performed a bit tedious to read. There also wasn’t much action here either. There was one plot point where some characters are held in containment that got me reading faster, but then it was resolved quickly in a kind of bizarre and unrealistic way.
The romance had its ups and downs for me. Trying to fulfill Casper’s dream is noble, but a very dangerous request. In a way, it didn’t settle well with me that Calla wanted to go into a warring country to sing for the soldiers. It seemed like a nonsensical way to get killed. The present love story seemed a bit rushed and kind of fleeting since Calla’s love interest believed she betrayed him and she never believed that in him. Perhaps it was the nature of the time during war, but it wasn’t particularly the best love story I’ve read. The ending did wrap the story up well, which is always positive.
Overall, “The Star of Camp Greene” is a historical fiction work that I’m sure has its audience. I would recommend it for those who enjoy this genre with light descriptions of what happens during war, and do not mind a musical aspect with some drama/competition involved.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher (HarperCollins Focus | Harper Muse) for giving me an the opportunity to read “The Star of Camp Greene”. All opinions are my own.
May 19, 2025
In 1918 Charlotte, North Carolina, Broadway star Calla Connolly is mourning the loss of her fiancé Casper and hoping to honor him by performing for troops in France. But her plans unravel when she contracts the Spanish flu at Camp Greene and, during her recovery in the infirmary, overhears a military secret. Ordered to remain at the camp, Calla loses her coveted tour to a rival and becomes the camp’s performer instead. As she bonds with the soldiers—especially the man who confined her there—Calla must choose between her past dreams and a future she never imagined, one that could cost everything if her secret gets out.
3 stars!
Calla experienced an unfortunate turn of events and her plans to perform for various camps during the war were cut short due to her unintended interference with top ranking soldiers at Camp Greene. Between her battle with the flu, the loss of her fiancé and the feeling of being trapped at the camp while a competitor takes over her performance tour, Calla really has to shift gears and alter her expectations. Though well-written, I struggled through this story simple because of the pacing. It was quite slow for me and I had a hard time feeling that pull towards the storyline. It is a well-rated book on Goodreads, however, so I think I am in the minority!
Best for Readers Who Enjoy: Historical fiction, WWI stories, American history, strong female leads, wartime romance, themes of resilience and sacrifice
3 stars!
Calla experienced an unfortunate turn of events and her plans to perform for various camps during the war were cut short due to her unintended interference with top ranking soldiers at Camp Greene. Between her battle with the flu, the loss of her fiancé and the feeling of being trapped at the camp while a competitor takes over her performance tour, Calla really has to shift gears and alter her expectations. Though well-written, I struggled through this story simple because of the pacing. It was quite slow for me and I had a hard time feeling that pull towards the storyline. It is a well-rated book on Goodreads, however, so I think I am in the minority!
Best for Readers Who Enjoy: Historical fiction, WWI stories, American history, strong female leads, wartime romance, themes of resilience and sacrifice
January 20, 2025
During WWI, Camp Greene in Charlotte NC is not where up and coming performing star Calla Connelly wants to be. She wants to be in France, in the action, to honor her deceased fiancé. But when recovering from the Spanish flu, she overhears sensitive information and must remain at the camp.
Joy Calloway has researched this book through soldier letters and we feel each uncertainty and patriotic duty. The main characters, Calla and Jesse, share sweet words and kisses but in uncertain times one never knows!
Joy’s words, through the eyes of the soldiers and main characters tug at our heartstrings.
Loved this story! I “might” have shed a tear! Out May 6, 2025.
Thank you to Joy, Harper Muse and Netgalley for the ARC!
Joy Calloway has researched this book through soldier letters and we feel each uncertainty and patriotic duty. The main characters, Calla and Jesse, share sweet words and kisses but in uncertain times one never knows!
Joy’s words, through the eyes of the soldiers and main characters tug at our heartstrings.
Loved this story! I “might” have shed a tear! Out May 6, 2025.
Thank you to Joy, Harper Muse and Netgalley for the ARC!
December 30, 2024
Who are the Broadway divas and would-be divas among us?
What if your great heart was to take that skill of singing, songwriting, and most of all, encouraging, and turn it to help the troops heading off to fight in WWI? Back then there was no USO, only Callie honoring her late fiance's wish that she go to Europe to entertain the troops, and using her own funds for a six-month tour (while hoping for clearance from General Pershing). At least until Spanish flu, followed by an overheard and potentially devastating military secret, grounds her at Camp Greene, in Charlotte NC.
A can't-put-down story of songs and singalongs making hearts glad, no matter if your own plans were skewed, and even in the difficulty of send-offs, as soldiers head out of the safety of training camp and overseas to the front lines. Apologies for the mixed metaphors, but sometimes the window you fight to open after the door closes makes for an opportunity to lift others as you climb.
What if your great heart was to take that skill of singing, songwriting, and most of all, encouraging, and turn it to help the troops heading off to fight in WWI? Back then there was no USO, only Callie honoring her late fiance's wish that she go to Europe to entertain the troops, and using her own funds for a six-month tour (while hoping for clearance from General Pershing). At least until Spanish flu, followed by an overheard and potentially devastating military secret, grounds her at Camp Greene, in Charlotte NC.
A can't-put-down story of songs and singalongs making hearts glad, no matter if your own plans were skewed, and even in the difficulty of send-offs, as soldiers head out of the safety of training camp and overseas to the front lines. Apologies for the mixed metaphors, but sometimes the window you fight to open after the door closes makes for an opportunity to lift others as you climb.
May 31, 2025
Calla is a performer like no other! She seeks to boost the spirits of WWI American soldiers after the loss of her own soldier. She becomes trapped at Camp Greene in NC but she meets some great people especially Jesse.
I loved the 1917 setting because WWI is an important era that gets shoved aside in favor of WWII.
I was all for Col. Jesse but was very disappointed in something he did toward the end of the book. I was like really???
I also wish Calla would have pushed Lenor off the stage into the orchestra pit but Lenor made her own bed.
A rich read all around!
Thanks Harper Muse and NetGalley for the advance copy.
I loved the 1917 setting because WWI is an important era that gets shoved aside in favor of WWII.
I was all for Col. Jesse but was very disappointed in something he did toward the end of the book. I was like really???
I also wish Calla would have pushed Lenor off the stage into the orchestra pit but Lenor made her own bed.
A rich read all around!
Thanks Harper Muse and NetGalley for the advance copy.
April 1, 2025
Thank you #NetGalley for the eARC of #TheStarofCampGreene
The Star of Camp Greene is a historical tale that (quite literally) sings with heart and vibrancy, anchored by one of the most unforgettable heroines I’ve read in a long time. Calla Connolly, a Broadway star with a big heart, leaps off the page with her fiery spirit, and relentless passion for life and performance.
Set against the backdrop of WWI in 1918 Charlotte, NC, Calla’s journey begins with grief and ambition—driven by the loss of her fiancé, Caspar, and a mission to honor him by performing at the front. But fate has other plans when she’s struck by Spanish flu at Camp Greene and overhears a military secret that effectively traps her stateside under the supervision of Army Colonel Jesse Erickson. What could have been a story of confinement becomes one of love and rediscovered joy. Calla's dynamic with Colonel Erickson—the man tasked with keeping her "grounded"—is tender, complex, and a wonderful slow-burn. The tension between them feels earned, rooted in both frustration and growing affection.
The pacing does lag slightly in the middle, and some plot turns feel a bit convenient, but it doesn’t detract from the novel’ too much. Overall, Calla Connolly isn’t just a character—she’s a force. And long after the final curtain falls, she’ll still be singing in your heart.
P..S. The publisher should release a playlist to listen to while reading this book!
The Star of Camp Greene is a historical tale that (quite literally) sings with heart and vibrancy, anchored by one of the most unforgettable heroines I’ve read in a long time. Calla Connolly, a Broadway star with a big heart, leaps off the page with her fiery spirit, and relentless passion for life and performance.
Set against the backdrop of WWI in 1918 Charlotte, NC, Calla’s journey begins with grief and ambition—driven by the loss of her fiancé, Caspar, and a mission to honor him by performing at the front. But fate has other plans when she’s struck by Spanish flu at Camp Greene and overhears a military secret that effectively traps her stateside under the supervision of Army Colonel Jesse Erickson. What could have been a story of confinement becomes one of love and rediscovered joy. Calla's dynamic with Colonel Erickson—the man tasked with keeping her "grounded"—is tender, complex, and a wonderful slow-burn. The tension between them feels earned, rooted in both frustration and growing affection.
The pacing does lag slightly in the middle, and some plot turns feel a bit convenient, but it doesn’t detract from the novel’ too much. Overall, Calla Connolly isn’t just a character—she’s a force. And long after the final curtain falls, she’ll still be singing in your heart.
P..S. The publisher should release a playlist to listen to while reading this book!
April 15, 2025
THE STAR OF CAMP GREENE by Joy Callaway deserves 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 with a extra 🇺🇸for good measure!
Calla Callway is a Broadway star who had it all; until she didn’t. Like so many during World War I she loses her loving fiancé tragically. In an effort to honor his memory, Calla is determined to make it to France to sing, perform and give hope to the soldiers on the front line. As Calla is making her way across American Training Camps in hopes of taking on France - she contracts the Spanish Flu. While recovering she inadvertently hears top secret orders and finds herself grounded at Camp Greene as an effort to prevent her from talking. Calla discovers that falling in love again is possible but she has to see at what cost ❤️ Follow Calla and Jesse; their fun and light banter and yet such powerful moments during such uncertain times! The story is even better once you get to the author notes and realize Camp Greene is a real place. 🇺🇸
Favorite moments :
“We can control so little of our lives. All that matters in the end is that we were compassionate and humble, that we loved as often as we could, and try our best to cheer those cast down among us.”
“If you ever need a bit of home, come see me and I’ll sing it to you again”
Thank you @joywcal for sharing an ARC with Beyond the Pages and for the shout to our book club and so many of my favorite people in your acknowledgements ❤️
##btptravelingarc #btpbookclub #aileenonbookz #bookpeoplearethebestpeople #toomanybooksnotenoughtime
Calla Callway is a Broadway star who had it all; until she didn’t. Like so many during World War I she loses her loving fiancé tragically. In an effort to honor his memory, Calla is determined to make it to France to sing, perform and give hope to the soldiers on the front line. As Calla is making her way across American Training Camps in hopes of taking on France - she contracts the Spanish Flu. While recovering she inadvertently hears top secret orders and finds herself grounded at Camp Greene as an effort to prevent her from talking. Calla discovers that falling in love again is possible but she has to see at what cost ❤️ Follow Calla and Jesse; their fun and light banter and yet such powerful moments during such uncertain times! The story is even better once you get to the author notes and realize Camp Greene is a real place. 🇺🇸
Favorite moments :
“We can control so little of our lives. All that matters in the end is that we were compassionate and humble, that we loved as often as we could, and try our best to cheer those cast down among us.”
“If you ever need a bit of home, come see me and I’ll sing it to you again”
Thank you @joywcal for sharing an ARC with Beyond the Pages and for the shout to our book club and so many of my favorite people in your acknowledgements ❤️
##btptravelingarc #btpbookclub #aileenonbookz #bookpeoplearethebestpeople #toomanybooksnotenoughtime
April 29, 2025
As a child growing up, I loved to watch AMC and Turner Classic Movies. Those timeless movies and legendary performances. The glitz and glamour, the show tunes and dance numbers, dapper gentleman and elegant ladies. But also, I craved those stories of grit and sacrifice of our men and women during times of war and conflict. And Joy brought these two aspects to life splendidly. I could easily envision these characters with their struggles and triumphs playing out in my mind’s eye, just like a Bo Hope or Greta Garbo production.
Calla Connolly has known loss. The war has taken her dearest love and partner. And she feels the need to honor his memory and sacrifice by bringing hope and cheer to those who will fight for the peace of the world. But when her plans are derailed, she decides to make lemonade from the lemons she is served.
While she is confined to Camp Greene, Calla begins to heal, find solace and maybe even a new chance at love. Her hard work and dedication to her cause changes lives. But nothing comes easy and obstacles continue to present themselves.
Joy Callaway opens our eyes to the efforts of civilians and servicemen alike while on the home front. We witness the struggles to overcome ravaging disease, prejudice, segregation, and despair from a war that takes and takes. But it’s balanced with the joy of hope, friendship, and love.
Enjoyed this one and could definitely see it on the big screen one day.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Muse for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Calla Connolly has known loss. The war has taken her dearest love and partner. And she feels the need to honor his memory and sacrifice by bringing hope and cheer to those who will fight for the peace of the world. But when her plans are derailed, she decides to make lemonade from the lemons she is served.
While she is confined to Camp Greene, Calla begins to heal, find solace and maybe even a new chance at love. Her hard work and dedication to her cause changes lives. But nothing comes easy and obstacles continue to present themselves.
Joy Callaway opens our eyes to the efforts of civilians and servicemen alike while on the home front. We witness the struggles to overcome ravaging disease, prejudice, segregation, and despair from a war that takes and takes. But it’s balanced with the joy of hope, friendship, and love.
Enjoyed this one and could definitely see it on the big screen one day.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Muse for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
April 26, 2025
Set during World War I and inspired by true events, The Star of Camp Greene follows Calla Connelly, a spirited society girl with dreams of Broadway. After contracting the flu and being hospitalized, Calla inadvertently overhears a classified military conversation. To protect national security, she’s kept at Camp Greene in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she channels her talent into entertaining troops preparing for war. In doing so, she discovers unexpected purpose, friendship, and connection during one of history’s most trying times.
I had such an enjoyable experience reading this story. It struck just the right balance between history and entertainment. The atmosphere and camaraderie reminded me of the stories my grandparents used to share about Bob Hope and the performers who brought joy and comfort to the “boys” serving overseas.
What sets this novel apart is its uniquely American setting. Most World War I fiction takes place in Europe, so seeing this chapter of history unfold at home made it even more fascinating. The themes of resilience, romance, friendship, and human connection shine through the narrative, offering a moving portrait of how people come together when it matters most.
I listened to the audiobook version, and Brittany Pressley’s narration was superb. She breathed life into each character, capturing their personalities and accents with heart and precision.
The story kept me intrigued from start to finish, and I highly recommend readers not skip the author’s note, it’s rich with historical insight that deepens the reading experience.
The Star of Camp Greene is a must read for fans of historical fiction!
I was gifted this audiobook by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I had such an enjoyable experience reading this story. It struck just the right balance between history and entertainment. The atmosphere and camaraderie reminded me of the stories my grandparents used to share about Bob Hope and the performers who brought joy and comfort to the “boys” serving overseas.
What sets this novel apart is its uniquely American setting. Most World War I fiction takes place in Europe, so seeing this chapter of history unfold at home made it even more fascinating. The themes of resilience, romance, friendship, and human connection shine through the narrative, offering a moving portrait of how people come together when it matters most.
I listened to the audiobook version, and Brittany Pressley’s narration was superb. She breathed life into each character, capturing their personalities and accents with heart and precision.
The story kept me intrigued from start to finish, and I highly recommend readers not skip the author’s note, it’s rich with historical insight that deepens the reading experience.
The Star of Camp Greene is a must read for fans of historical fiction!
I was gifted this audiobook by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 5, 2025
I’m a sucker for historical fiction and for taking time to throw in my own little research while reading, especially if it’s an area I’m familiar with. The Star of Camp Greene by Joy Callaway depicts 1918 Charlotte, NC with incredible detail, nodding to quite a few locations that are still standing today. Not only did I love diving into local history, but I fell in love with the story of Broadway star Calla Connolly and her story of determination and selflessness.
Heartbroken by the loss of her fiancé, who died in the war, Calla is determined to carry on their dream as a couple of performing for the soldiers to boost morale, specifically around Europe. Her plans are derailed pretty quickly when she encounters the Spanish flu and inadvertently overhears classified information while at Camp Greene. We follow Calla as she’s determined to make the best of a situation by helping so many in need while holding fast to her own dreams.
Top tropes:
-enemies to lovers
-forced proximity
-found family
Buzz Worthy:
BookBub (Buzziest New Books Coming Out in May)
Town & Country (The Best Books to Read This May)
Positively Charlotte
Thank you Joy Callaway, Harper Collins, NetGalley, and Librofm for the advanced copies!
Heartbroken by the loss of her fiancé, who died in the war, Calla is determined to carry on their dream as a couple of performing for the soldiers to boost morale, specifically around Europe. Her plans are derailed pretty quickly when she encounters the Spanish flu and inadvertently overhears classified information while at Camp Greene. We follow Calla as she’s determined to make the best of a situation by helping so many in need while holding fast to her own dreams.
Top tropes:
-enemies to lovers
-forced proximity
-found family
Buzz Worthy:
BookBub (Buzziest New Books Coming Out in May)
Town & Country (The Best Books to Read This May)
Positively Charlotte
Thank you Joy Callaway, Harper Collins, NetGalley, and Librofm for the advanced copies!
September 7, 2025
Thank you @netgalley @uplitreads and @harpermusebooks for my gifted copy
This is a cozy romance/historical fiction about Camp Green in Charlotte, North Carolina during in World War I. Callie is a broadway star who is traveling to different camps entertaining troops. She hopes to make it to France to honor her fiancé that died in the war. While at Camp Green, she gets the Spanish flu and while recovering overhears secret information. She is ordered to stay at the camp for the duration of the war.
What I liked: I haven’t read much about World War I and most war books focus on the front not those that are at home training were left behind. The dynamics of camp life and the various feelings of the men and their relatives gave a new take. I also like the details about Charlotte.
What didn’t work for me: I didn’t love the narrator’s male voice. I know picky but it bothered me.
The pacing is a tad slow.
Who should read it: This one leans more historical fiction with a side of romance. It’s low steam with one fade to black scene.
This is a cozy romance/historical fiction about Camp Green in Charlotte, North Carolina during in World War I. Callie is a broadway star who is traveling to different camps entertaining troops. She hopes to make it to France to honor her fiancé that died in the war. While at Camp Green, she gets the Spanish flu and while recovering overhears secret information. She is ordered to stay at the camp for the duration of the war.
What I liked: I haven’t read much about World War I and most war books focus on the front not those that are at home training were left behind. The dynamics of camp life and the various feelings of the men and their relatives gave a new take. I also like the details about Charlotte.
What didn’t work for me: I didn’t love the narrator’s male voice. I know picky but it bothered me.
The pacing is a tad slow.
Who should read it: This one leans more historical fiction with a side of romance. It’s low steam with one fade to black scene.
May 10, 2025
Thank you to libro.fm for the advanced listening copy!
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘢𝘮𝘱 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘯𝘦 follows a Broadway performer, Calla, as she overhears classified information while recovering from the Spanish flu. As a result, she's assigned under a commander's watch and ordered to remain on site despite her wishes to return to the front, spreading her talent to lift soldier's spirits.
I admired Calla's strength and perseverance as her goals evolved, especially by the end of the novel, and she finds her way to support the brave men fighting for her freedom. She forges deep connections with others at Camp Greene, finding community amidst a difficult period of history. It was a very compelling story, one that I thoroughly enjoyed! I recommend this to every reader searching for a perfect blend of history and romance.
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘢𝘮𝘱 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘯𝘦 follows a Broadway performer, Calla, as she overhears classified information while recovering from the Spanish flu. As a result, she's assigned under a commander's watch and ordered to remain on site despite her wishes to return to the front, spreading her talent to lift soldier's spirits.
I admired Calla's strength and perseverance as her goals evolved, especially by the end of the novel, and she finds her way to support the brave men fighting for her freedom. She forges deep connections with others at Camp Greene, finding community amidst a difficult period of history. It was a very compelling story, one that I thoroughly enjoyed! I recommend this to every reader searching for a perfect blend of history and romance.
July 7, 2025
This was a lovely book set during WW1 but not on the frontlines or in a combat zone. I have to say I wasn’t sure how this would work out when I read the book, but it did. The war still impacts every aspect of the character’s lives even though they are thousands of miles away from the fighting. Its part Romance, part war story, part emotional journey. The narrator of the audiobook, Brittany Pressley is perfect.
I didn’t find out until the end that the protagonist is partly based on a real person, which adds an even more interesting edge to the story. I’d recommend it generally. Though I have to mention that there’s a sex scene between two unmarried people. This basically prevents it being counted as Christian Fiction, and makes it General Market.
Thanks to Harper Muse/HC Focus for approving me for this title. All opinions are entirely my own.
I didn’t find out until the end that the protagonist is partly based on a real person, which adds an even more interesting edge to the story. I’d recommend it generally. Though I have to mention that there’s a sex scene between two unmarried people. This basically prevents it being counted as Christian Fiction, and makes it General Market.
Thanks to Harper Muse/HC Focus for approving me for this title. All opinions are entirely my own.
February 19, 2025
Thanks to #netgalley, I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I really enjoyed Calla and Jesse’s story, and the enemies to lovers trope. I am a huge fan of historical fiction, especially World War era. I enjoyed learning about the history aspects of what a military training camp was like, and the characters throughout the story. At times, I disliked Calla for her ignorance and as much as I wanted to like her for her selflessness, it almost became hard to understand her reasoning for some of the things she did in the book. I wish there had been further development into the segregation issues, and more about the actual war time events, but overall I truly enjoyed this story.
I really enjoyed Calla and Jesse’s story, and the enemies to lovers trope. I am a huge fan of historical fiction, especially World War era. I enjoyed learning about the history aspects of what a military training camp was like, and the characters throughout the story. At times, I disliked Calla for her ignorance and as much as I wanted to like her for her selflessness, it almost became hard to understand her reasoning for some of the things she did in the book. I wish there had been further development into the segregation issues, and more about the actual war time events, but overall I truly enjoyed this story.
April 17, 2025
First time reading this author and really enjoyed the pace and story line. During WWI, Camp Greene in Charlotte NC is not where up and coming performing star Calla Connelly wants to be. She wants to be in France, in the action, to honor her deceased fiancé. But when recovering from the Spanish flu, she overhears sensitive information and must remain at the camp. Joy Calloway has researched this book through soldier letters and we feel each uncertainty and patriotic duty. The main characters, Calla and Jesse, share sweet words and kisses but in uncertain times one never knows. Joy’s words, through the eyes of the soldiers and main characters tug at our heartstrings. The flow of the story and the twists were nice and spaced well. Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author.
April 23, 2025
The Star of Camp Greene is a fascinating and informative insight into life in a US Army training camp in North Carolina during the First World War. Then with the addition of music and a Broadway star, this was a moving, yet entertaining piece of historical fiction that has evidently undergone meticulous research.
There are some wonderful underlying messages contained within the story:
Music has the power to inspire, lift morale and give hope.
Sometimes we find ourselves on unexpected and unwanted paths without knowing that it’s exactly what we needed.
And finally, we are stronger together.
The audiobook is superbly narrated by Brittany Pressley. She beautifully brings every character to life with accents, tone, expression and emotions.
The Star of Camp Greene brings illness, romance, secrets, battlefields, music, tragedy and triumph….and the ending is perfect!
Thank you to the audio publisher, Harper Muse Audiobooks for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There are some wonderful underlying messages contained within the story:
Music has the power to inspire, lift morale and give hope.
Sometimes we find ourselves on unexpected and unwanted paths without knowing that it’s exactly what we needed.
And finally, we are stronger together.
The audiobook is superbly narrated by Brittany Pressley. She beautifully brings every character to life with accents, tone, expression and emotions.
The Star of Camp Greene brings illness, romance, secrets, battlefields, music, tragedy and triumph….and the ending is perfect!
Thank you to the audio publisher, Harper Muse Audiobooks for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2025
This book has a nice mix of historical detail, romance, and personal growth that creates a heartwarming and insightful story. The story takes place in 1918, and follows Broadway star Calla Connolly whose life is upended by the war and personal loss. Stuck at a military camp, she becomes a performer for the soldiers, finding new purpose and unexpected love along the way. This book was a beautiful reminder of the unsung heroes on the home front during WWI, with a compelling lead character and a deeply emotional journey. Thank you Libro FM, Harper Muse and Joy Callaway for sharing this book with me!
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