Book Description from author’s website:
Anna O’Brien has the perfect job at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across a baffling mystery of a ship that disappeared at sea. When forces conspire to prevent her from learning the truth, she turns to a dashing congressman for help.
Luke Callahan is one of the most powerful men in congress until his career begins collapsing amidst scandal. When he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship, he is stunned to find himself falling in love with the down-to-earth librarian. Despite the attraction, strict rules forbid Anna from any romantic entanglement with a member of congress, and each meeting puts her career in jeopardy.
From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation to the scholarly archives of the nation’s finest library, Anna and Luke will begin unraveling a mystery larger and more dangerous than ever imagined.
My Review:
Elizabeth Camden is a brilliant author. Her books, each one of them can hold their place in the sun. This one in particular shines brightly. She has woven a fantastic tale of history. The beautiful new Library of Congress is the center of this story, with all the debate on the improvements. A young congressmen with anger issues and a young, spunky librarian with a husky voice. What could they possibly have in common? Nothing, really, or so it turns out.
I loved the realism this story takes. Both of the main characters, as in Ms. Camden’s other books have suffered from abuse. Yet, they are survivors. They freely admit they struggle with the past events. Anna is sensitive about her voice while Luke does not want to be like his father. They are human and weak. Yet, they seek to appear strong.
You get to watch the Spanish/American War unfold, a conflict with Cuba and even hints about President McKinley’s wife. This is historical fiction at it’s prime. The tidbits dropped throughout will pique your interest in learning more about the time period. The word pictures will show you a glimpse of the majesty of the Library of Congress as well as the job early librarians performed there. There is mention of a scene with both characters that can be a little triggering if you have had abuse in your past. It is superbly written as to get my heart racing when I read it, like I was there. Alcohol abuse is mentioned as well as brief mention of physical abuse. For this reason, it is recommended for older teens and adult reading.
I absolutely loved it!! It was the right pace for the story to unfold. It didn’t feel rushed. There are so many layers to the characters, and you will be irritated with Luke right along with Anna! Go out and buy this one!
This book was provided for review by NetGalley and the publisher. The opinions contained herein are my own.