An endearing historical romance... When Stars Light the Sky by Elizabeth Camden (Review) #newbooks #bookx #thewomenofmidtownseries #WhenStarsLighttheSky #ElizabethCamden #histfic #historicalfiction #romancebooks #christfic #bhpfiction #bethanyhousefiction #austenprosepr @Bethany_House @austenprose


I enjoyed reading this one! Find my review below...

When Stars Light the Sky
(Women of Midtown #2)
By Elizabeth Camden
Christian Historical Fiction, Romance
Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 352 Pages
January 21, 2025 by Bethany House Publishers

Summary

In a world on the brink of war, two hearts must navigate shadows of uncertainty.

Inga Klein's carefree life in New York takes a dramatic turn when she sails for Berlin, Germany, to serve as the secretary for America's ambassador. Amid the glamour of life at the embassy, she continually finds herself at odds with the straitlaced and imposing Benedict Kincaid, the diplomatic chief of staff who harbors deep misgivings toward the German-born Inga.

As Europe hurtles toward World War I, Benedict's determination to keep America out of the conflict adds to the already tense atmosphere. Despite their relentless sparring, Inga and Benedict succeed in keeping the embassy afloat through one crisis after another. But when they run out of diplomatic options, a marriage of convenience may be Inga's only hope of escape from the impending war.

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My Review

WHEN STARS LIGHT THE SKY is about a woman whose life changes when she becomes a secretary to the US ambassador to Germany pre-WWI. The story is mostly set in Germany amidst rising hostilities as the war starts and the US tries to stay neutral. The characters are likable with two points of view, one from Inga and one from Benedict. Readers will enjoy themes of friendship, resilience, faith and romance. Definitely recommended to fans of the genre!

I liked this story from the start, especially as I liked both of the main characters. Inga is a social flirt and loves having fun, but she also is intelligent and a hard worker as she has learned to work the wireless connections of the New York port. She has a great group of friends including the new ambassador who has been like a father to her. I liked her positive outlook on life and the constant humor. Benedict is completely her opposite, or so it appears. His humor is just more hidden and he's much more reserved. I loved how they balanced each other and how their relationship went from strangers and somewhat enemies to a mutual respect and friendship to more. 

The story has some different elements. There's the historical piece and just a bit of a faith element (nothing overly pushy or strong, which felt right for this story). The romance isn't much of a focus in the first half of the book as readers are taken to Germany and learn the state of affairs and about Inga's work. It does pick up more in the second half. I appreciated that it isn't overly gushy, but has some serious moments, heartache, and then a sweet ending made more so for the difficulties and uncertainties they faced. Everything isn't tied up all prettily. There is also some good character development as these characters mature through some difficult things and they find love.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This is an enjoyable story with likable characters. It's a setting that isn't overly prevalent and so was something different to read and learn about. There is a light faith element with a stronger emphasis on the war situation in Berlin, friendship and a slow-building romance. An endearing and entertaining read!

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Austenprose PR, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Other Books in the Series

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About the Author


Elizabeth Camden is best known for her historical novels set in Gilded Age America, featuring clever heroines and richly layered story lines. Before she was a writer, she was an academic librarian at some of the largest and smallest libraries in America, but her favorite is the continually growing library in her own home. Her novels have won Christy, Carol, and RITA Awards and have appeared on the ECPA Bestsellers list. She lives in Citrus County, Florida, with her husband, who graciously tolerates her intimidating stockpile of books. Learn more at ElizabethCamden.com.


Did you read the first book in this series? Have you read any other books set in Germany before and during WWI?

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