Crown City by the Sea: Coronado 1885-1900

by Jennifer M Franks

Set during the waning years of the Victorian era, 1885-1900, this historical novel tells the compelling tale of the creation and early years of the Hotel del Coronado. As entrepreneurs Elisha Babcock and Hampton Story quickly discover, it takes more than a dream to turn the barren island of Coronado, California into a world-renowned, destination resort. The story is told through the eyes of young Ava Hennessey, whose family runs the island’s stables. Ava’s adventures, along with historical characters (John D. Spreckels, Jesse Shepard, Kate Morgan, L. Frank Baum) are intertwined with the trials and triumphs of the audacious founders.

388 pages, Paperback

Published October 3, 2018

Reviews

[Kim McBride]

So enjoyed this historical fiction novel as the Hotel Del Coronado is a special place I enjoyed visiting as a teenager while enjoying the Coronado beach and as an adult attending a variety of functions.
I loved the familiar names involved in early San Diego history - Spreckels, Horton, Old Town, Orange Avenue (there really were orange trees!), Glorietta Bay, L. Frank Baum (author of the Wizard of Oz) - all familiar to me as a long time San Diego resident.
The story allows the reader to pause and consider the magnitude of bringing all the Hotel Del Coronado building materials across the bay by boat.
A lovely book that allowed me to revisit sweet Coronado and San Diego memories - thank you Jennifer M. Franks!

[Angie Barrile]

A Very enjoyable book after just visiting Coronado!

[John]

Formulaic

Romance novel, trying to be historical fiction. Coronado history seems secondary and a bit contrived. Doesn’t do Coronado the homage it deserves.

[JenD]

Captivating story of a special place and time…

[Sharon Snyder]

This is a wonderful historical fiction book. I loved the entire story and found it so interesting concerning the Hotel Del Coronado which I have visited on several occasions and stayed in once. I highly recommend this book. Excellent story.