From This Moment

From This Moment #1

by Elizabeth Camden

Stella West's artistic talent made her the toast of London, but when her beloved sister dies under mysterious circumstances she abandons everything and heads for Boston. With single-minded determination she fights to pierce the ring of secrecy surrounding her sister's death. Upon meeting Romulus White, a publisher with connections into every important power circle in the city, she quickly realizes he could be a valuable ally in navigating Boston society.

Romulus has been pursuing Stella for years to create art for his magazine. Her luminous illustrations are the missing piece he needs to propel his magazine to the forefront of the industry, and he will stop at nothing to get her on board.

Sparks fly the instant they join forces, but Romulus is unsettled by the unwelcome attraction he feels toward Stella, fearing she might be the one woman who could disrupt his hard-won independence. He may have finally met his match in Stella, but is helping her solve the mystery of her sister's death worth the risk to his publishing empire?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Mystery, Historical, Historical Romance, Christian

347 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2016

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

FINALLY finished! It took me about five months to get through this book. At 2.75 stars, this was the biggest miss I've had in Camden's writing. The beginning was interesting, and the ending good, but the middle was just really flat and sloppy.

For example, at the beginning of chapter 8, it claimed that the finer restaurants didn't prohibit a woman from dining alone, but only cared if she could pay. That struck me as really funny, from the amount of ladies dining alone in older novels, and I researched a bit more. Ladies were excluded from men's clubs and were not allowed in the men's dining rooms in fine restaurants. They did have to be sufficiently known about society to enter alone; a chorus girl or seamstress could only enter with a man's escort, and was seated in the men's dining room, but a society lady would be seated in the main dining area where ladies and families dined. The purpose was supposedly to keep nice ladies from rubbing elbows with vulgar people. But all towns had their tea rooms and cafes and buffets, in much the same manner as we do today. Stella could have and would have eaten at these humbler sorts of restaurants while trying to maintain a low profile as a working woman while trying to solve her sister's murder.

Also, there were plenty of modernistic phrases in the middle...
Perfectly awful
Indulging in a tantrum
Go running off to
Mustn't let her get to him
Went under
Get City Hall to jump
Get her onboard
Needed to pull back

Yes, some of that is New York paper-boy slang that was just coming into use. Nice society didn't accept such slang until the Roaring Twenties; two people who criticize split infinitives in a sentence are not going to think it okay to use such terms. Those details really pulled me out of a story that I wasn't deeply immersed in to begin with.

It also felt disjointed between the Evelyn/Clyde story arc, the Stella/Romulus one, and the different magazine and mystery elements. The quarrelsome speeches particularly grated on my nerves.

Anyway, I kept laying it aside, hoping it was just mood, but ultimately I cannot say I loved it and will only recommend it to readers who love Elizabeth Camden...don't start with it if you are trying her out, because there are so much better stories in her list.

Still looking forward to the next book, though!

[Rachel McMillan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part of the reason I make an idiot of myself fan-girling over Elizabeth Camden is that she validates everything I love about fiction. In her heroines, I see proud and strong women who are very professionally-driven. Her romances always unfurl with the heroes falling for the heroines because of their confidence and strength. In short, she uses fascinating historical detail to champion in the working world. She makes me feel better about myself: my career, my choices, my strong nature and will.

While her heroines are never shrinking violets, so they still range from the optimistic to the steel-spined to the romantic to the troubled to the vulnerable--- often all at once.


Camden is especially brave in the way that she handles relationships that are not a traditional happy ever after. Braver still in how her characters express their limitations. They may fall into each other's arms on a beautiful beach scene ( thanks, Romulus and Stella), but they also are honest enough to admit that they may fail even as they brush the possibility of a life together.

Indeed, this is one of the points I want to make about the power of From This Moment. The prequel novella Summer of Dreams is a resplendent companion piece featuring two supporting characters in Clyde and Evelyn. Clyde and Evelyn's story ends happily in the novella only to find them separated and working through layers of confusion and miscommunication in this full-length book. While most romance authors enjoy tying up the neat bow of the happily ever after ending, Camden explores the after: two people who through time and circumstance have grown apart and who tragedy has given a new opportunity. Will they sever forever or find a strength that will bind them more closely than they imagined?

For readers of Camden's canon, they know that the troubles plaguing characters with histories of regret and guilt are part of what makes the flawed personages stand out so well on page. No one in a Camden novel will ever grace its pages without the weight of the past. Think of Lydia in Against the Tide, think of the abuse that Anna and Luke have both endured in Beyond All Dreams, think of Trevor's passion for medical study in With Every Breath. In From This Moment, Romulus and Stella are both results of the past, as are Clyde and Evelyn.

I start, here, with the former: Clyde and Evelyn married young and recklessly in a whirlwind of excitement. But Evelyn suffered the tragedy of the death of a child while Clyde was focused on supporting her with a remote job. Both independent workaholics, the events of From this Moment recall all that has ripped them apart at the seams over a decade.

Their close association with Romulus has resulted in his taking two steps back from any relationship first, because his heart was broken and second because he has seen what can happen when you love. Clyde and Evelyn loved deeply and it forged a tremulous gash in their makeup.

Broken relationships, fallacies, limitations and pride: these are bold things to explore in Historical Romance but Camden, with a swift brush and a ponderously gorgeous grasp of prose ( not to mention a perfect realization of late 19th Century Boston), does so, consistently, with aplomb.

Perambulatory musings aside, let's get to the heart of this rather shakingly good book.

Stella is a talented artist who has long enjoyed correspondence with Romulus, editor and part owner of Scientific World. Romulus has long pursued her to work for him and the hints of an epistolary banter is magnified when the sparks fly on their first meeting. As much as Stella wants to use her artistic talent, so she is afraid of being side tracked from her true purpose in Boston: to uncover those responsible for the death of her sister. Said to be a drowning, Stella suspects that Gwendolyn's proximity to corruption at the heart of the city's political core may have led to her murder.

Romulus, fascinated by Stella's confidence and pride ( they both sport considerable egos, especially when one-upping each other) helps her meander her way around some of Boston's higher echelons. In return, she does some splendid work for him. Together, they find themselves entangled in a maze of deceit and tragedy, childhood mistakes and uncertain futures, all pitted against the fascinating engineering of the Boston subway system.

I must add that alongside the many, many virtues of a Camden book is that her heroines never need to be rescued and often rescue themselves. This is most pronounced at a climactic scene where it would be an easy-set up for Romulus to ride in on a white horse, but he doesn't need to. In turn, there is a sequence where Evelyn rescues Clyde. She plays with gender supposition and undercuts with such a staggering and strong sense of gender equality my fingertips tingle.


There are so many delicious things about this book: one is the slow thaw of two characters who, lets face it, aren't the darlings of the page from the get-go. They are both flawed, proud, conceited and stubborn as all get out. When contrasted with the supporting relationship of Clyde and Evelyn who show pride and limitations in their own way, you wonder if anyone will ever find their happy ever after. But that is the brilliance of Camden. She gives you a little bit of a shaft of light here and there: a night listening to music and stuffing subscription letters into envelopes, the sanctuary of the memory of hummingbirds, a few key insights into a friendship long established while Stella is welcomed into the group.

Like little breadcrumb trails, she flings you pieces of the character's inner-workings and relationships much in the same way she gives you just a fling here and there of the eventual realization of the most intricate mystery. When all is revealed, you will first audibly gasp then secondly laugh at HOW SMART SHE IS for writing this.


Camden's penchant for verisimilitude and her obvious passion for painstaking historical research are well on display here.

When it comes to world-building, few authors have such a keen handle on the female professional experience in the late 19th Century. I am fascinated by her heroine's intelligence, I am hopeful by the hero's acceptance of their confidence, I am glad when a preternatural kinship sometimes riddled with the conflicts of the story are smoothed out and all is well that ends well.

(note: I especially enjoyed the attention paid to fashion in this one: Stella is a very fashionable woman and Camden extrapolates on this well. Romulus also is quite dapper).

[✨ Gramy ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

..
This was an adventurous tale that focused on a turn-of-the-century trio of friends filled with a thirst for knowledge and a keen interest in innovations. This installment takes place years after the trio had met.

The daughter of a powerful army general, Evelyn White dreams of attending college and vows she will never marry a man in uniform. . . . which is why West Point cadet Clyde Brixton presents a problem. Clyde's brilliance in the new field of electrical power has him poised for a promising career in the Army's Corps of Engineers, but his penchant for racking up demerits threatens his chances for graduation.

Cousins - Eveline and Romulous White are running a famous magazine very successfully. The only thing that would improve it would be hiring Stella West as an illustrator, at least that is Romulus' opinion. Once they meet each other face to face, the adventure begins. There are twists and turns and head shaking revelations that don't fail to captivate the reader.

Evelyn and Clyde feel instant attraction toward one another as they spend one magical summer together. As their lives become more entwined, their friend Romulus's begins to come undone. When faced with helping Romulus at the expense of his own future, which one will Clyde choose? And when nothing turns out the way Evelyn planned, where will that leave her own future?

Elizabeth Camden delivers a bold view of the era, that is currently available at no charge through Amazon via the Kindle Unlimited program. It is a clean and wholesome historical romance tale that I would recommend to anyone interested in the genre.

[Andrea Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. These are my honest thoughts.

This story was so mysterious! The tone was exactly what I was longing for when I picked up this book.

I like that the fear of water was accurately depicted. I have personal experience with this fear, and nothing seemed odd or wrong or weird about the expression of the fear and how restrictive it can be when a person who has this fear is around water. Well done, Mrs. Camden!

The sisterly love displayed in Stella was beautiful. I like that her love for her deceased sister fueled her mission of solving the mystery surrounding Gwendolyn’s death. There were lots of obstacles along the way, which naturally tested Stella’s mettle. This made for an entertaining and realistic journey.

I loved the climax obstacle too. The way the fear of water came to a head with that particular event was exquisite to behold.

Content: one profane word, pub, sensuality (heavy kissing and a lady sitting on a man’s lap; one scene only)

[Malia Saldaña · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! That book was so good and that cover is gorgeous! I loved the mystery. I can’t believe I didn’t figure it out though. Evelyn and Clyde are so perfect for each other and that ending made me want to cry. It was so sweet. Romulus and Stella were so fun to read about together. I loved their parts and when they would flirt together. I highly recommend,and I’m sad I finished reading about these great characters. I’ll have to read more Elizabeth Camden books sooner rather than later.

[Diane Estrella · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has broken all records in my mind. It is my new ALL-TIME favorite read in this genre!

Wow! Full of surprises, twists and turns. Little did I realize how much I loved the hero and everything that made him ... him. It took me 2/3rd's of the way through the book to realize that the author was portraying him as having ADD/ADHD. It was done subtly and lovingly. Of course, in the 1800's this diagnosis didn't exist but the author made him perfect and wonderful to know as he was made.

I have never read a book that had EVERYTHING perfectly thought out and in place. This could be considered a critique because literally everything was exactly what needed to be and happen to make the story line flow perfectly. Looking back you could see all of the clues, but while reading it, the author was very clever in hiding things in plain site. (Very Sherlock Holmes-y of her.) She has truly upped her writing game. Also, of course, her attention to history and science details threaded throughout the story can not be understated. She is well-rounded in her academics and it comes across flawlessly in her stories.

I also have a huge problem with books that take you on a 300 page journey and abruptly end "happily ever after" as soon as the last crisis is resolved. The author DID not do that in this story. It had one of the best wrap-ups ever. I felt like it did justice to the total story and was not cheesy or rushed. THANK YOU!

This quote from the book is a favorite and as true today as always: "She'd learned long ago that courage was not the absence of fear, but the willingness to confront it." The story was exemplary in showing this trait and the costs involved in being brave.

I will be giving this book to an aunt of mine that has never read this genre before and I am confident that she will adore it as much as I have. At some point soon, I will be re-reading this book which is a rarity in a true book lover's world of, too many books, too little time...

I received a free copy of this book from the author/publisher, for my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

[Jocelyn Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, I'm thoroughly impressed with Elizabeth Camden. Her books are so SMART. By that I mean, the detail that goes into setting the historical context and the character's vocations are so fascinating. It's never overdone to the point that it's too dense to read. Instead, it's just really convincing and immersive. The main characters in this novel were both so intelligent and witty, the dialogue had me laughing out loud. Yet, they were both clearly flawed, as well, which was a very interesting portrayal. Both of them seemed pretty selfish at times, but aren't we all? It makes me examine how I come across in my own personal relationships. Am I stampeding over others as I strive toward my own priorities? Am I using self-doubt as a cowardly excuse not to try something? I love a book that makes me reflect on my own character.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Egads! How could I have fallen in love with a dandy?! But it is true and no one is more surprised than me. I fell hard for Romulus notwithstanding his flare for fashion, inflated ego and whimsical ways. He enthralled me right from the very first page. Unlike any other romance hero I've come across! And wouldn't he be pleased to bear that distinction? Because he's a tad prideful as well. Okay, maybe not prideful in the negative sense -- more like he recognizes his strengths and plays up to them. He's found his niche in the magazine industry -- the perfect backdrop for his eclectic interests and short attention span to shine.

And then Stella waltzes into his life and nothing is the same again. Her ego matches his and she's not afraid to speak her mind -- forcefully at times, which just serves to get her into trouble. Not with Romulus, he finds her tendency to call a spade a spade amusing for the most part. But Stella is collecting enemies among the city's elite as she inelegantly alienates everyone in her path in her attempt to solve the mystery of her sister's death.

Romulus finds himself in the dubious role of knight in shining armor for a decidedly prickly -- but lovely -- young lady. Every scene with these two in it is delectable. The artful playfulness, the clash of wills, opinionated 'discussions' -- the atmosphere is definitely charged. All. The. Time. Toe-curling and infuriating. I've never come across a more exasperating pair! Such a joy to read!

And the plot is magnificent. Corruption and subterfuge and plenty of twists plus the bonus of a secondary love story. And an inspiring faith thread ties it all together. Honestly -- you'll want to clear your calendar before you dare open this book because once you do there's no going back. You'll be immersed in turn-of-the-century Boston and you won't want to snap back to reality until you've finished ever single delicious word.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. in exchange for my honest review.

[Joleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, I'll say one thing for Ms. Camden, she's either a highly intelligent woman, or she does a an amazing amount of research! I suspect both. There were so topics from botany, to electricity, to subways, to hummingbirds, even parquet flooring that were described in not just a little detail, but a lot of detail. All so eloquently worded I had to shake my head constantly and think how well she just worded that.. There was a beautiful conversation at the office as they were involved in a mundane task of getting a mailing out, that began with a memory from their youth, to Brahms and Puccini, waxing poetic about the magazine business, then several more paragraphs that were as eloquent as anything I've read. I love so much about the way Ms. Camden creates with words what so few authors can.

Now, after all that, I wish I could say how much I loved the story. I loved the playful and sometimes mean-spirited banter between Stella and Romulus. Loved the interplay between Evelyn and Clyde. And the love Stella's parents had for each other was inspiring, but I just didn't love the story. It was a murder mystery that took oh so long to get to the meat of because there were lots of smaller subplots and side trips.

It may not have been my favorite book by Ms. Camden, but I still love the way she writes!

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another solid historical romance from Elizabeth Camden. The strongest parts of the novel were the historical details about Boston and the building of the subway and the mystery of what happened to Stella's sister.

I didn't connect that well to the hero and heroine, Romulus and Stella, however, I did enjoy the humorous exchanges between them. The romance I enjoyed more was between Evelyn and Clyde.

Overall, it was an engaging novel and I recommend it to fans of historical fiction.

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 4 out of 5]

About this book:

“Stella West’s artistic talent made her the toast of London, but when her beloved sister dies under mysterious circumstances she abandons everything and heads for Boston. With single-minded determination she fights to pierce the ring of secrecy surrounding her sister’s death. Upon meeting Romulus White, a publisher with connections into every important power circle in the city, she quickly realizes he could be a valuable ally in navigating Boston society.
Romulus has been pursuing Stella for years to create art for his magazine. Her luminous illustrations are the missing piece he needs to propel his magazine to the forefront of the industry, and he will stop at nothing to get her on board.
Sparks fly the instant they join forces, but Romulus is unsettled by the unwelcome attraction he feels toward Stella, fearing she might be the one woman who could disrupt his hard-won independence. He may have finally met his match in Stella, but is helping her solve the mystery of her sister’s death worth the risk to his publishing empire?”


Series: Book #1 in the “From This Moment” series. {Not sure if it will be an actual series, but there is a #.5. Review of that novella, Here!}


Spiritual Content- Prayers & Thanking God; Talks about God & fairness; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; Stella says she’s always been a lackluster Christian, thinking she has time when she’s older to be more devout (she learns that life is short); Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers; Mentions of Christians; Mentions of sins & Heaven; A few mentions of a foundation in faith; A few mentions of angels, miracles & blessings; A couple mentions of God’s creation; A couple mentions of Bible reading; A couple mentions of those in the Bible; A couple mentions of churches; A couple mentions of missionary work;
*Note: A couple mentions of Roman mythology.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’, an ‘Egad’, a ‘heck’, a ‘shut up’, a ‘sissies’, seven forms of ‘idiot’ and ten forms of ‘stupid’; Sarcasm & Eye rolling; Many, many, many mentions of Stella’s sister who was found dead (drowning, up to semi-detailed); Many, many mentions of bodies, drownings, strangulation, murders, deaths, autopsies, a morgue file, & jail; Mentions of chemical stenches, high water & thinking you’re going to drown (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of shooting people, killing, fighting & blood (semi-detailed); Mentions of suicide & attempts; Mentions of a mental asylum & a woman starving herself; Mentions of a fire & gas (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of boxing matches, punches & injuries; Mentions of drunks & alcohol; A few mentions of tobacco & cigars; A few mentions of a pub & beer; A couple mentions of gambling; A couple mentions of dead water animals.


Sexual Content- a palm kiss, a check kiss, a forehead kiss, three semi-detailed kisses and a boarder-line semi-detailed // detailed kiss; Touches & Embraces (up to semi-detailed); Noticing & Staring; Nearness & Smelling; A mention that Romulus loves women & has dated a lot; A mention of a lover’s quarrel; A mention of Stella’s parents not being able to keep their hands off each other; A mention of a woman meeting strange men at night; A couple mentions of married couples snuggling together; A couple mentions of an engaged couple having two children (and then it turns out he was already married); A few mentions of having a type; A few mentions of an older man falling in love with a girl nearly half his age (her father is not happy about it and says the man is prowling around & has hankering for her); A few mentions of a woman’s uterus, a baby who died & not being able to have children; Mentions of flirting; Mentions of kissing & kisses; Mentions of serious relationships, causal dalliances & platonic relationships; Mentions of bachelorhood & a Casanova (and Romulus’ opinion of marriage is being shackled to one woman); Mentions of a married couple’s separation; Mentions of cheating, affairs & a married man’s mistresses; Love, falling in love & the emotions;
*Note: A couple mentions of women’s figures; A mention of a man trying not to picture a woman in her bath; A mention of someone being the butt of jokes.

-Stella West, age 28
-Romulus White, age 32
P.O.V. switches between them, Evelyn & Ernest (once)
Set in 1897
347 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
I don’t know what to rate this book. The first half of the book nearly broke me, since I read the novella prior to reading “From This Moment”. Set ten years prior to this novel, the novella “Summer of Dreams” is about Evelyn & Clyde’s relationship. Which, after reading it, I thought they were so cute together and was looking forward to seeing what was going on with them in this novel. Well, when the bomb was dropped I literally could have done many Goodreads status updates like: “I am currently gasping for air like a fish out of water.” “Somebody put me out of this pain.” “*whimpers*” “I’m in so much pain.” Everything does work by the end, but I was very vocal while reading the first half of this book. Stella & Romulus definitely took a backseat the first half due to those parts, and the last half I was more like “Wait, are they on or off?”. I liked Stella and Romulus was very interesting.
I found the murder plot and aspects very interesting and all the historic details really made this an Elizabeth Camden book. (Also, the cover?! Stunning.)


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House) for this honest review.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed several books by Elizabeth Camden, and From This Moment is no different. It's rich in historical detail and character development. There is so much packed into this novel, but the story lines all stay straight and on track. I actually enjoyed the mystery a little more than the romance.

The main characters are very colorful, and the both have a bit of the drama queen thing going on. Romulus has a flair for fashion and is a bit of a play boy. Stella is artistic and headstrong. They make a great team when they aren't arguing.

The plot has a lot of suspense and some twists that I didn't see coming. I also loved the side romance between Clyde and Evelyn. I would love a follow up book or novella to see how everyone is getting along, and to see what scrapes Stella has gotten into.

I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical romance or mystery.

I received this book for free from Netgalley for the purpose of review.

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it, but I didn't think it was one of Camden's bests. The middle felt like a mix of random storylines that didn't connect BUT the end (last 100 pages or so) was great and where my interest really piqued. So I'm glad I read this one :)

[Paula Vince · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, it's a romance and murder mystery rolled in one, all with a cool Steampunk sort of feeling. The story takes place in late nineteenth century Boston while their underground subway system is being built, which adds to the impression of constant movement.

Having read Summer of Dreams, the prequel, I was pleased (and not surprised) to see that Romulus would be the hero. No longer the restless college student, he is now the publisher of a well-known science magazine. But he's still just as quirky and flamboyant. And the inferiority complex he hides still ripples under the surface. If he lived in my time and place, he'd surely throw himself into the hipster movement.

Romulus and his cousin Evelyn each own half the magazine. He's anxious to acquire a renowned nature artist named Stella West as a member of their staff, certain that her talent will boost their profile even more. But as he sets out to meet her, he has no idea that Stella's real reason for being in the city is to prove that her sister was murdered, and track down her killer.

Stella is a great, gutsy character who's playing with fire. She knows her sister, Gwendolyn, probably met up with foul play while she was trying to expose some corruption in City Hall, yet she's still game to dig around in the same places in her search for justice. Since Stella and Romulus both have such strong personal agendas, they are not above using each other to get what they want. They are both aware of this, but the attraction still blooms, even at times when they wish they'd never crossed each others' paths.

The plot thread with Evelyn and Clyde puzzled me a bit at first. They ended on such a strong note in Summer of Dreams, I was trying to figure out a catalyst for their marriage breakdown. It gradually comes out in a credible picture, given what we know of their personalities, and we discover the story hasn't finished with them yet.

As for the 'Scientific World' partnership, it's hinted that both cousins are grasping the success of the magazine very tightly. It bolsters Romulus' fragile ego, and satisfies Evelyn's demanding sense of order and purpose when nothing else seems to work, including her marriage. Knowing all this, I was just waiting for that foundation to crumble. Still, the way it happens comes as a bit of a shock.

One fun way of boosting the profiles of characters is historical name dropping. For example, Clyde worked for a time with Thomas Edison, and Stella was given a William Morris scarf by the artist himself. Since these celebrities lived so long ago, their brushes with these fictional characters cannot be refuted and it's easy to nod and go along with it. In other ways, the story has a real up to date feeling. For example, Riley McGraff, the arrogant private investigator, keeps insulting Stella, who hired him. I was half expecting him to pull out some blonde jokes, but that would have been going too far.

In many ways, this is my favourite Elizabeth Camden novel so far. There's just so much in it. My main point stealer is that she didn't really convince me that Romulus and Stella's relationship will go the distance. By the end of this story, he's still moody and easy to distract, she's still gloomy and disappointed in his behaviour, and they're both still second guessing each other. I'd like to think it will last, but I just don't get a feeling that it's very strong. Still, you never know what will happen.

Find more reviews on my blog, http://vincereview.blogspot.com.au/

Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for my review copy.

[Yara · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was intrigued by the premise of Elizabeth Camden’s book “From this Moment” as it takes place in Boston, a place I know well. The book begins with the construction of the first subway system in the US, the Boston T. The first half of the book was very entertaining, I liked the characters and enjoyed the mystery. However, halfway through the book, it began to lag, it also started to get preachy.

I’m not a religious person, though, I do enjoy Proper Romances. I think stories that have a universal moral message such as forgiveness, compassion, redemption, self-betterment, etc. can be quite enriching, however, I’m not looking to be preached to about Christ. It’s just not my thing.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. This was engagingly written with nice historical details. I enjoyed the mystery aspect of it as well. However, I didn’t really like either MC and that definitely put a damper on things. One star for the writing, one star for the mystery, and half a star for the clean content and light spiritual message.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This being my first book by Elizabeth Camden, I wasn't sure what to expect. Well, let me just say I will be reading more by her. A lot more I hope. Her writing style is SO BEAUTIFUL.

The murder mystery made my skin crawl and my heart pound. Though I hadn't read one in quite some time, I love a good mystery when I read one and this one was AHHMAZING.

The romance was sweet and fun for the most part. And then the side story with Evelyn and Clyde was utterly darling and I love them so much. *huggles characters*

The characters were SUPERB. Without discussing each of them separately as I'm going to do I would surely miss something (though I will anyway).

Romulus is an intricately crafted character, full of details uncommon for the usual hero/love interest in these type of stories. The magazine, Scientific World, is his pride and joy. Unfortunately, that goes too far and we find Romulus measuring his self-worth against the popularity and success of the magazine he co-owns with his cousin, Evelyn. In the beginning there's plenty of room for developing Romulus's character, and the change in him through the course of the book was well-paced, realistic, and wonderful to watch. Um...read. ;)

Stella is an enchantingly beautiful artist with, as Romulus often reminds her, an extremely large ego. He's good for her and keeps her from allowing her fame and talent to go to her head. The character growth in her was much quicker than the change in Romulus and not so realistic. Much more sudden and spot-on. I enjoyed all the talk of dresses, accessories, and fashion in the parts from her POV too. It added so much historical detail. :)

Evelyn, Romulus's cousin and business partner, and Clyde, Evelyn's husband, were both intriguing characters. Having gotten a legal separation years ago (it wasn't called a divorce, and they were still technically married), they have lived their own lives, each of them trying to ignore the still-present feeling for their spouse. When Clyde ends up back in Boston on business...he's bold enough to face Evelyn and persistent enough to try and win her heart back.

Although Evelyn and Clyde weren't the main focus of the book, they were...my favorite. Odd, I know, I should like Stella and Romulus. And I do, but I honestly enjoyed Evelyn and Clyde's story more. I enjoyed watching their story progress SO-O much!
*spoilers ahead* With everything that happened over Clyde's injury...I CRIED, people. I loved them...I need a story, a chapter even, of them somewhere...together...with their adopted daughter, Lily...*dreamy sigh* *end of spoilers*
I can't wait to read Summer of Dreams and get their complete back-story! :)

All of that said and fangirling over, I grappled over what to rate this book for awhile. For the writing style, the thrilling mystery, and believable characters, I would heartily give the book five stars. Unfortunately there were a couple things I didn't agree with, so I'm knocking off a star.

The kissing between two certain people about 60% through the book was a little over the top in my opinion. One knows that the other has no interest in a lasting relationship, yet they instigate the kiss...and continue to kiss...a lot... Just, yuck.

My last 'complaint' would be the lack of Christianity. The characters pray a couple times, God is mentioned, and Stella realizes in the end that she wants to be the tru Christian that her sister was. If you're just going to write a clean, historical fiction, that's great. I'll still enjoy it. But don't add a couple of prayers and then call it Christian. Please?

All together, I enjoyed this book immensely. The time period wasn't one I typically read, so it was neat to be different. ;) I would recommend this book to those who enjoy accurate historical fiction, vividly detailed descriptions, and clean mysteries.

Favorite Quote.

"I'm convinced the joy from a single ounce of chocolate does the body and spirit more good than a whole cartload of turnips."


**I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.**

[Haley S · Rating 3 out of 5]

Elizabeth Camden is a great author. She can write a story with the perfect amount of mystery, romance, and adventure.

I was hoping to review this book for an actual publishing company, but I was not one of the people picked to review this book. That was probably because I was only just beginning this blog at the time of its publishing. But, I will be reviewing To the Farthest Shores very soon for Bethany House Publishing! I can’t wait!

I really enjoyed this book. But, at the same moment, there were a few things I didn’t enjoy as much. Some of it wasn’t my style, I guess. Some of the mystery part of it was definitely not my style. I like romance with a little bit of mystery. This book just had too much for me. And, I get creeped out really easily so some of Gwen’s murder details were just not for me.

Romulus was great. I really liked him. He was just plain ol’ awesome. Stella, on the other hand, wasn’t my favorite character. She got really annoying, honestly. Sometimes she seemed like a really spoiled child.

Evelyn and Clyde were both really cool! I liked both of them! Sure, they were both stubborn, but that is because they are supposed to be stubborn. I wish there would have been a bit more about them. A while ago, I read the novella about them, Summer of Dreams. It is a free novella that is worth getting on your e-reader!

The cover is okay. I actually didn’t really like it. I honestly don’t know why. It just isn’t me, I guess. So, I am going to give it 2 stars.

The book I am going to give three stars! It is a good read for anybody who already likes Elizabeth’s books or who enjoys a good romance mystery!



Title: From This Moment

Author: Elizabeth Camden

Author’s Website: http://elizabethcamden.com/

Reading Resolution: #56



This review is written in my own opinions and words.

[Gwendolyn Gage · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story had some great wit battles between the hero and heroine! I found myself grinning over and over again as Romulus and Stella teased and insulted each other, and boy, did they have the personalities for such conversations, both of them very prideful, fashionably loud, and independent people. Romulus and Stella were a lot of fun, Stella charging full speed ahead, ready to trample anyone who dare lay in the path between her and the mysteries behind her sister's death. I wish I could have seen a greater spotlight on Romulus' emotional struggle as he fell in love with Stella...the story opened with him meeting up with a lost love and recounting his determination to keep his relationships with women shallow and manageable, including a wife, if he married. I wanted more of their romance, but stage-time was shared with Romulus' best friends and fellow Scientific World shareholders who had a sad, married-but-separated story that begins in a separate novella, Summer of Dreams.

Not my favorite of Camden's brilliant novels, but it did keep me interested. The book went everywhere with me once I hit the halfway mark. I loved the details and talk of lithography and type-settings, and the groundbreaking of Boston's first subway, right under Romulus' offices. The mystery behind the sister's death kept me guessing, and the villain was one of the best characters.

[Candice · Rating 5 out of 5]

When two creative talents clash, sparks fly and tempers flare. Will they be willing to set aside their egos to find true love?

Famous lithograph artist Stella West has moved to Boston to find who murdered her sister. Despite the police's claim her death was accidental, Stella lurks around City Hall for any clue of foul play. She crosses paths with Romulus White, half-owner of Scientific World, the very man behind the letters she'd received in England, begging her to work for him. When Romulus offers her a deal she can't refuse, he gets more than what he bargained for--attraction, frustration, and danger.

Since a lot of romances are plotted with polar opposite heroes and heroines, I loved how Stella and Romulus were just alike--independent, confident powerhouses who are used to getting what they want. This made for great conflict and romantic tension. Once I started this book I couldn't hardly put it down.

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance or elements of mystery. I gave this book 4.5 stars!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, if you didn't read the novella, Summer of Dreams by Elizabeth Camden, do that before you read this book...or the characters, their backgrounds, and some of the storyline won't make much sense (in my opinion). I read the novella first and it set everything up very nicely for this book.

I could not put this book down! The plot was so engaging and the characters felt so unique. The plot was rather dark, being the character's sister has died...and in her searching for what happened to her sister she does need to look at the body at one point, and pictures and such. So it's a bit descriptive...I made sure not to read this at bedtime so I wouldn't have any nightmares...just in case. But for being a book about a murder, it was not focused on that entirely. The characters romance is fun, sweet, but not too mushy.

I loved the mystery, the fast-paced plotline, the unique characters and the faith message throughout was even-tempered and strong while not being too preachy. I would read this again.

[Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great blend of mystery and romance.

[Agnieszka · Rating 4 out of 5]

Myślę, że nie jestem obiektywna, jeśli chodzi o tę autorkę. Jej historie, jak dla mnie, są po prostu świetne. Może trochę nużące i czasami rozwlekłe, ale ja uwielbiam styl Elizabeth Camden, ale nie tylko to. Jej bohaterowie są tacy... Żywi, ludzcy. Mają swoje wady, które mogą irytować, ale również nie są pozbawieni zalet. Po prostu ich kocham, a w Tajemnicach Bostonu znów dostałam pakiet postaci, które popełniają błędy, bywają egoistyczni, skłonni do dramatyzowania, ale są także pełni pasji, miłości i lojalności, no i oczywiście odwagi. Czy to nie cudowne połączenie? Dla mnie na pewno.
Bohaterki zawsze to niezależne i silne kobiety, które mimo czasów w jakich przyszło im żyć, a także przeszkód, jakie spotykają na swojej drodze, brną do przodu, nie zważając na nic, po drodze zakochują się i są gotowe oddać tej miłości. A mężczyźni? Nie są przesadnie bucowaci, również to silne charaktery, niezależni, ale tak samo poddają się silnym uczuciom, ryzykując całą swą przyszłość. Dla mnie super.
Na duży plus zasługuje również to, że autorka nadaje bardzo ciekawe i ważne dla Stanów Zjednoczonych tło historyczne, w tej książce była to budowa metra w Bostonie. Kolejnym plusem są bohaterowie drugoplanowi, których historia również przetacza się po kartach postaci, i jest tak samo istotna. To nie jakieś martwe tło, ale wszyscy się dopełniają, tworząc coś naprawdę fajnego.
Oczywiście fakt, że ktoś postanowił powiesić skromną urzędniczkę na ścianie chwały jest dla mnie zwykłą przesadą, ale cała reszta zupełnie mi to rekompensuje.
Ja tam polecam i będę się cieszyć, jeśli ktoś również tak samo pokocha autorkę i jej historię.

[Abby Breuklander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love love and love this story! Life doesn't always go the way we thought it would, leaving us with so many questions as to why we're here. We can know that God is always at work behind the scenes, moving in ways that we can't even imagine. We can trust Him to work it all out for His best.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

From This Moment by Elizabeth Camden is set in Boston, Massachusetts in 1897. Stella Westergaard is determined to find out what happened to her sister. She has been told that her sister drowned, but Stella knows that is impossible. Stella wants the truth and has moved from London to Boston to get it. Stella has given up her career as an illustrator while she searches for the truth. Stella is working as a stenographer at city hall (her sister, Gwendolyn did this as well). Stella is using West as her surname to avoid suspicion. Romulus White is the editor of Scientific World (and co-owner). He has been trying to hire Stella West for years. He is surprised when he finds out that she is in Boston (she said she never wanted to leave London). Stella originally tells him no, but then discovers that Romulus’ connections will help her get the answers she seeks. Stella slowly finds out what Gwendolyn was doing and how it led to her death. Will Stella be able to get justice for her sister?

From This Moment was a good story, but I had a few problems with Stella. Stella was a little too independent, stubborn, determined in her single-minded crusade (I like independent women in novels, but Stella was a little over-the-top). I found her a little overbearing and single-minded. Romulus seemed overly concerned with appearances. From This Moment is nicely written and easy to read (the novel has a good pace or flow). There are long-winded descriptions of everything (I am glad I learned to speed read). I give From This Moment 4 out of 5 (I liked it). I thought the book was a little too long (it could have easily been shortened a wee bit and it would have enhanced the book) and it really did not need the additional problem of Evelyn and Clyde (Evelyn is Romulus’s cousin and her husband). They were experiencing marriage problems and then an accident brought them back together (predictable). I understood why they were added after I finished the book (to tie in with the prequel). I enjoyed the mystery in the book. I liked the twists and turns as the pair tried to get at the truth. I hope Ms. Camden’s writes more books with a mystery in them (she does a good job with them). From This Moment has a light Christian theme, but I did not feel that either character was a Christian (it just did not come across). I will be reading the next book by Elizabeth Camden.

I received a complimentary copy of From This Moment in exchange for an honest evaluation of the book. The opinions and comments expressed are strictly my own.

[Cynthia Marcano · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I Loved...
I love when I come across a book that offers everything I enjoy in a Christian Fiction (romance, comedic moments, swoon-worthy heroes, emotional tidbits and of course Jesus mixed all in) but also adds an element that I have rarely read. From This Moment not only adds intrigue but also a 19th-century touch of CSI.

What I Liked...
Elizabeth Camden isn't a series writer and usually writes stand alone books. She does however, write prequels. As expected the characters from the prequel are also in From This Moment and bring such a new level of story writing to this book. I really enjoyed Summer of Dreams (the prequel) and was so excited to read all about the lives of the characters after their storyline. In fact, it was not a cheesy happily ever after but a real and enjoyable journey for those characters as well as the main characters Romulus and Stella.

Other...
I always love Elizabeth Camden's covers and this one is no different.

There are two reasons why I didn't score this book a 5 out of 5. First, both of the main characters are repeatedly described and labeled as conceited and shallow. Personally, I thought that diminished my desire to love them when I kept being reminded how shallow they were. Don't get me wrong, I liked Romulus and Stella and enjoyed their chemistry. I just didn't love them.

Second, I found a lack of Christianity of either main character. Yes, Christianity is in the story, but it was almost an after-thought for the main characters.


Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Netgalley. The opinion of this book is my own and I was not paid or compensated for my review.

[Kelly Bridgewater · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly enjoy reading Elizabeth Camden's historical novel. She always invites me into the story, and I learn something new about history that I didn't before. Too bad she doesn't write history textbooks for students. Maybe more students would enjoy history told as a story versus just memorizing facts all the time. Anyway, with From This Moment, I enjoyed learning more about the creation of subways. When I think of subways, I think of New York City. I never knew Boston had a subway system, so this made the story completely original. With Camden's attention to the historical detail, I really felt like I strolling through the city of Boston and watching the creation of the subway. My favorite part of the plot was the intriguing mystery that Stella wanted to solve to save her sister's good name. I enjoyed all the length Stella went through to save her sister. Shows true love for a sister. The romance was cute, and I loved watching Stella and Romulus argue when they flirted with each other. It was different than most romance stories.

With a dash of a history lesson on the invention of the subway lines, Camden captured my attention with a brave and selfless heroine who butted heads against a strong, resilient hero alongside a mystery for justice.

Fans of Camden's other works will enjoy this latest installment of her stories. I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.

I received a complimentary copy of From This Moment from Bethany House Publishers and the opinions stated are all my own.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Elizabeth Camden writes this genre well, historically accurate, drawing on real life events to base her fictional characters on, always adds to the sense that there is a little more than 'just a story' with her books. In 'From This Moment' she introduces us to Stella Westergaard, a talented illustrator, using lithographs for her work. She is back in Boston, after a flourishing start to her career in London, hidden in drab clothing and hiding under her 'pen name' in her deceased sisters job at City Hall as a Stenographer. Romulus White, is a prominent joint owner of the renowned 'Scientific World' magazine, which he and his cousin Evelyn have rescued from the ground up to make it a success. Their paths collide, as Romulus wants to hire Stella for state of the art full colour ads and graphics for the magazine, and she discovers his connections in the City may be just what she needs to overcome the hurdles placed in her way as she investigates the suspicious events of her sisters death. Mystery, cover-ups, corruption on every level seems to be at play, and they are risking the downfall of all they hold dear in the pursuit of the truth. I enjoy Elizabeth's books, though I found the relationship struggle with Romulus a little odd, along with his name. 3.5 Stars.

I received this ARC from Netgalley & Bethany House, in return this is my honest review.

[Sara Cardon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romulus and his cousin Evelyn own the magazine Scientific World, and it means so much them, for different reasons. I like how we follow multiple storylines:

Romulus wants to hire the artist Stella, while she singlemindedly wants to get to the bottom of her sister's suspicious death. Romulus offers his influence to help her, but their actions bring consequences.

Meanwhile Evelyn deals with the discomfort of her estranged husband close by in Boston, where he is an engineer in the building of the first electric subway. He wants to try again in their marriage.

Life has a way of shifting everone's focus - for good and bad. The storylines revolve around the relentless energy going into the magazine and finding the truth about Stella's sister's death.

I really like the insecurities Romulus has - he comes across so bold and confident, but inwardly faces a fear of failure. Stella really is good for him because she understands him and likes him, faults and all. The characters are wonderful - they make plenty of mistakes, but learn to love and accept imperfection. The ending quarter of the book is fantastic. There's mystery, danger, action, reconciliation, making peace, and a sweet resonance. I enjoyed the history, the characters, and just a well told story.

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4.5 stars***

I adored the characters in this book. Romulus and Stella are independent, strong-willed people. The way the clash and get along is amusing. The best part is that they understand and accept each other as they are.

This story is a romance as well as a murder mystery. Stella has returned to Boston to figure out who murdered her sister. The death was classified as an accident, but Stella knows that it isn't true. She teams up with Romulus, who wants her to illustrate his magazine. They help each other. In the process they learn that they need each other. The attraction they feel for the other is undeniable.

The story is told from alternate view points. I loved getting to know them through their thoughts as well as their actions. Two additional characters that I came to love from the novella Summer of Dreams play a part in this book and I was happy to get more of their story and romance.

This book has action, suspense, mystery and romance. It is a wonderful book. It is clean with kissing and mention of Christian values.