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Women of Midtown #1
While the City Sleeps
Katherine Schneider's workaday life as a dentist in 1913 New York is upended when a patient reveals details of a deadly plot while under the influence of laughing gas. As she is plunged into danger, she seeks help from the dashing Lieutenant Jonathan Birch, a police officer she has long admired from afar.
Jonathan has harbored powerful feelings toward Katherine for years but never acted on them, knowing his dark history is something she could never abide. Now, with her safety on the line, he works alongside her through the nights as they unravel the criminal conspiracy that threatens her. And throughout it all, Jonathan fears what will happen should Katherine ever learn his deepest secrets.
Join award-winning author Elizabeth Camden for a sweeping and romantic adventure of dangerous secrets and wounded hearts fighting to overcome the darkness while the rest of the city sleeps.
Jonathan has harbored powerful feelings toward Katherine for years but never acted on them, knowing his dark history is something she could never abide. Now, with her safety on the line, he works alongside her through the nights as they unravel the criminal conspiracy that threatens her. And throughout it all, Jonathan fears what will happen should Katherine ever learn his deepest secrets.
Join award-winning author Elizabeth Camden for a sweeping and romantic adventure of dangerous secrets and wounded hearts fighting to overcome the darkness while the rest of the city sleeps.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 13, 2024
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February 12, 2024
“Don’t ever doubt in the darkness what is true in the light.”
If you are like me and enjoy a wonderful, clean love story while learning something new about a little-known aspect of history, you might enjoy Elizabeth Camden’s novels.
This is my first introduction to this author, and I love how she masterfully blended these elements into her work. I think what I loved most is that it’s a well-paced novel filled with intelligent characters and real-life history.
While the City Sleeps is the first book in The Women of Midtown series and it’s a fantastic kickoff, highlighting the working-class heroes and heroines who keep New York City operational while everyone else sleeps.
Dr. Katherine Schneider s a rarity in early 20th century New York in that she’s a woman working in dentistry. I loved that despite facing humiliation and setbacks in Ohio before we meet her, she still “fulfilled her improbable dream of becoming a dentist.” It was good for me to think about the positive side of our dreams not coming to fruition. So often we focus on the negative side of the disappointment. In Katherine’s case, it forced her out of her comfort zone and into a rewarding career. I saw so much of myself in Katherine; driven, career-focused, rule follower, people pleaser, and often spouts off before she thinks. It was good for me to see ‘myself’ from a different angle. I wanted to pull her aside and force her to see the big picture and treat Jonathan much more tenderly. It was good to be reminded that we are all in the process of ‘becoming’.
Lieutenant Jonathan Birch won my heart. I think I saw so much of my husband in him; loves to bake, is gentle, Italian, avoids confrontation and is driven to pursue goals. I love how Camden slowly revealed his backstory, keeping so much of who he ‘was’ in the background until we fell in love with who he ‘is’ and who he wants to become.
I enjoyed the examination of the challenges that come when we undergo a transformation and reinvent ourselves. Equally enjoyable was the focus on redemption, loneliness, allegiance, loyalty, the struggle to overcome our past, the need to rise above, the importance of extending grace, empathy, compassion and understanding, the danger of being ruled by fear and listening to the voice of doubt, the value of being part of a team and waiting on God’s timing,
I appreciated learning about ‘the gray lady’, keeping up with the well-plotted and intriguing mystery, and seeing how far society has come in the past 111 years.
I’ve added this author to my auto-read list.
I was gifted this copy by Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
If you are like me and enjoy a wonderful, clean love story while learning something new about a little-known aspect of history, you might enjoy Elizabeth Camden’s novels.
This is my first introduction to this author, and I love how she masterfully blended these elements into her work. I think what I loved most is that it’s a well-paced novel filled with intelligent characters and real-life history.
While the City Sleeps is the first book in The Women of Midtown series and it’s a fantastic kickoff, highlighting the working-class heroes and heroines who keep New York City operational while everyone else sleeps.
Dr. Katherine Schneider s a rarity in early 20th century New York in that she’s a woman working in dentistry. I loved that despite facing humiliation and setbacks in Ohio before we meet her, she still “fulfilled her improbable dream of becoming a dentist.” It was good for me to think about the positive side of our dreams not coming to fruition. So often we focus on the negative side of the disappointment. In Katherine’s case, it forced her out of her comfort zone and into a rewarding career. I saw so much of myself in Katherine; driven, career-focused, rule follower, people pleaser, and often spouts off before she thinks. It was good for me to see ‘myself’ from a different angle. I wanted to pull her aside and force her to see the big picture and treat Jonathan much more tenderly. It was good to be reminded that we are all in the process of ‘becoming’.
Lieutenant Jonathan Birch won my heart. I think I saw so much of my husband in him; loves to bake, is gentle, Italian, avoids confrontation and is driven to pursue goals. I love how Camden slowly revealed his backstory, keeping so much of who he ‘was’ in the background until we fell in love with who he ‘is’ and who he wants to become.
I enjoyed the examination of the challenges that come when we undergo a transformation and reinvent ourselves. Equally enjoyable was the focus on redemption, loneliness, allegiance, loyalty, the struggle to overcome our past, the need to rise above, the importance of extending grace, empathy, compassion and understanding, the danger of being ruled by fear and listening to the voice of doubt, the value of being part of a team and waiting on God’s timing,
I appreciated learning about ‘the gray lady’, keeping up with the well-plotted and intriguing mystery, and seeing how far society has come in the past 111 years.
I’ve added this author to my auto-read list.
I was gifted this copy by Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
March 22, 2024
About this book:
“Amid the hushed city, two hearts must navigate danger and deception, bound by a love that outshines the stars.
Katherine Schneider's life as a dentist in 1913 New York is upended when a patient reveals details of a deadly plot while under the influence of laughing gas. As she is plunged into danger, she seeks help from the dashing Lieutenant Jonathan Birch, a police officer she has long admired from afar.
Jonathan has harbored powerful feelings toward Katherine for years but never acted on them, knowing his dark history is something she could never abide. Now, with her safety on the line, he works alongside her through the nights as they unravel the criminal conspiracy that threatens her . . . even as he keeps his deepest secrets hidden at all costs.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Women of Midtown” series.
Spiritual Content- Thanking God (twice); A Scripture is mentioned; Talks about God & forgiveness; 'H's are not capital when referring to God; Katherine believes that when someone gives themself over to Christ, they can be redeemed no matter what they’ve done; Jonathan feels called to a certain profession (no mention of God with this calling besides the fact we live in a fallen world and then Katherine thinking that God could have called him to it); Jonathan is Catholic, crosses himself (a few times), & goes to a rosary; Katherine is confused to learn that Jonathan is Catholic (it’s never brought up again); Mentions of God & Jesus; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food (including to saints); Mentions of a churches/cathedrals, church going, & priests; Mentions of Mass, holy water, blessings, & rosaries; Mentions of saints; A few mentions of those in the Bible; A few mentions of sins & confessing; A couple mentions of faiths; A couple mentions of a priest offering general absolution to law enforcement officers who wanted it before a dangerous mission; A mention of a Blessed life; A mention of a godsend; A mention of someone being called an angel; A mention of shrines at a cathedral; A mention of a young Jonathan being confirmed in the Catholic Church; A mention of “life in the hereafter”; A mention of the pearly gates;
*Note: Jonathan thinks of himself living in the “twilight between good and evil”; The villain says that the church (along with the police and government) are “agents of oppression and must be destroyed”; Heaven is thanks thrice; Mentions of Achilles; A few mentions of evil people; A few mentions of being lucky; A couple mentions of goddesses; A mention of sons looking at their dad like he walked on water; A mention of some newsies looking at cops as if they were “like gods to who walked the streets”; A mention of Santa Claus.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘heck’, a ‘my word’, a ‘shove off’, a ‘wickedly’, two ‘good heavens’s, three ‘shut up’s, five forms of ‘stupid’, and six forms of ‘idiot’; Mentions of curses (including by Jonathan, said, not written); A mention of a rude gesture being given; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Going to a funeral for a law enforcement officer (up to semi-detailed); Seeing a man commit suicide (with a gun, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Being held at knife-point, Seeing someone killed (shot), A gunshot, Being attacked (including an attempted murder/slit throat), Being drugged, Passing out, Pain, Blood/Bleeding, Injuries, & the Scar (up to semi-detailed); Bombs/Explosions, dismantling bombs, seeing a major injury, seeing a body in pieces, & deaths (up to semi-detailed); *Spoiler but Animal Death Trigger* ; Jonathan intimates a man to gain answers from him (including with a pistol); Jonathan’s life is built on lies and deception (he also lies to Katherine about his background/past and *Spoiler* ); Jonathan tells Katherine that not telling someone something would be an act of omission and not a lie, but she doesn’t see the difference and plans to tell the truth; Jonathan trips a man into the water (knowing that the other man can’t swim); Jonathan has a major rivalry with a man he’s known for years and works with (they make snide comments towards the other); An elderly woman hits Katherine (up to semi-detailed); All about many, many mentions of bombs, how they are made and work, bombers/bomb makers, explosions, fires, plans of harming and killing many, injuries and deaths from the events, & bodies being in pieces from it (up to semi-detailed); All about many mentions of mafia families, rival families and turf wars, extortion, crimes, criminals, weapons, deaths/murders of those in that field, & violence (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of a revolutionary group, an anarchist organization, threats, blackmail, arrests, & prisons/jails (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of lies, lying, liars, & deception (including Jonathan’s father teaching him to lie from the time he started to talk); Mentions of an assassination & assassin; Mentions of executions & pictures of those who were executed (including death penalties & the Mafia believing that Italians who cooperated with the police deserve an execution, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of someone being run-over by horses, an attempted murder (slit throat), the attack, blood/bleeding, & injuries (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a man cutting the Achilles tendons of anyone who betrays him (& using this as a threat, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of wars; Mentions of fights & fighting; Mentions of a brick being thrown through a window, threats, blood/bleeding, & injuries (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of pain, drugs, blood, & dental work (including pulling teeth and injecting numbing drugs, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of poisons & drugs; Mentions of physical abuse from a father & the son feeling worthless due to his words and actions (including that he would hold his son’s head underwater, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Mentions of a child nearly drowning & another nearly being hit by the subway; Mentions of thieves, thefts, stealing, & smuggling; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & taverns; Mentions of gambling & gamblers; Mentions of cigars, tobacco, & smoking; Mentions of envy; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of a bully; Mentions of the remnants of an owl’s dinner & someone wanting to remove a nest of baby owls (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); A few mentions of gunfire & deaths; A few mentions of gangs; A few mentions of cheating; A few mentions of hatred; A couple mentions of a suicide; A couple mentions of murder victims; A couple mentions of nightmares; A couple mentions of someone dying in their sleep; A mention of a bank robbery; A mention of Jonathan’s mother cuffing him in the face when he would slip up (due to her fear of something happening, not to be cruel); A mention of a murderous widow suspected of killing multiple husbands; A mention of a young boy growing up without a father; A mention of a married couple being “prickly” with each other over money; A mention of eavesdropping; A mention of manure;
*Note: Both Katherina and a co-worker face prejudices about being dentists (because she is female and he is Black); Jonathan accuses Katherine of having a charmed life & not knowing what it’s like to struggle (she’s hurt by this and he apologizes); A man says Jonathan was lucky to have had his mother until he was fourteen; A man calls a relative a “worthless old sack of garbage”; Mentions of prejudices (towards gender, race, and ethnicity; the word ‘bigoted’ is used once when Katherine thinks about submitting something to the police but only has the ethnicity of a suspect); Mentions of Marxists & their thoughts (some call it “claptrap”); Mentions of disrespect towards the police (including negative comments about them); Mentions of a book & a song (Lorna Doone & “The Sugar-Plum Plum Tree”); A few mentions of a man pretending to pull teeth from elephants and tigers for a crowd’s amusement; A couple mentions of anxiety (when Katherine feels that way at a couple parts); A couple mentions of a deep-seated insecurity & Sigmund Freud’s theories; A mention of someone having to be in a wheelchair of the rest of their life du to another’s actions (looked as negative or a terrible thing that could happen to the person); A mention of someone butting in; A mention of a brand (Tiffany & Co.).
Sexual Content- Two hand kisses, a nose kiss, a forehead kiss, a fingers-to-lips touch, three barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; Remembering kisses (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Shivers, Nearness, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing & Staring (up to semi-detailed); Jonathan sneaks into Katherine’s woman-only building so they can be alone together; Jonathan rubs Katherine’s bare feet/ankles (which someone calls “tawdry groping”, barely-above-not-detailed); Katherine wants Jonathan to kiss her when she’s under the influence of drugs (which he won’t because of that reason); A showgirl doesn’t care that a man has a wife since he has dated other women and wants the next one to be her; A showgirl offers Jonathan a generous view of her bosom (all that’s said about it); Mentions of prostitution (the names ‘floozies’ and ‘hookers’ are also used); Mentions of flirting, flirts, & a womanizer (including a known womanizer looking down a woman’s blouse); Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of Jonathan receiving female attention wherever he goes (including girls throwing themselves at him & a chorus girl kissing his cheek and wrapping her arms around his neck, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of blushes & winks; A handful of mentions of a man & his housekeeper “carrying on” (a secret affair); A few mentions of a young man seducing a young woman; A few mentions of crushes; A couple mentions of a showgirl sitting in a (married) man’s lap; A mention of male staff trying to get “overly familiar” with female residents of a boarding house; A mention of a man “groping” a housekeeper; A mention of a man being a “red-blooded American male” (i.e. flirting and being very interested in women); A mention of a married couple kissing; A mention of chaperones; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Katherine fixes her appearance before meeting with Jonathan a few times (because she wants him to think of her as pretty); A couple mentions of Jonathan not liking how a man orders his wife around.
-Katherine Schneider, age 28
-Jonathan Birch, age 34
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1913 (Epilogue in 1915)
352 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
Hmmm.
Can I just leave it at that? Hmmm.
Elizabeth Camden is an author I’ve read every book from (with the exception of a couple novellas) because I find her historical details and information so interesting. They always lead into different bunny trails of research for me and this book was no different in that regard.
It was different in the regard, however, that it didn’t feel like her other books in the historical setting and details. It didn’t feel like a book by this author. There’s the historical details that are interesting which is on par for her books, but for some reason this book just feels slightly off to me. Remember, this is coming from someone who has read all of her other books. It just didn’t feel like an Elizabeth Camden book. And I have no idea why.
I figured his secret out very quickly. Well, it wasn’t really much of a secret since we kind of have it confirmed about 50 pages in, but the main girl doesn’t get told the information until much later and it causes major problems. I didn’t really care for Jonathan. I find the details of the police work of this historical setting to be interesting, but I really didn’t care for him and it was because of his lying and his petty rivalry with a co-worker. He’s thirty-four years old and still allowing the guy to taunt him. It was border-line ridiculous.
I have a lot of thoughts. But most of them have to do with spoilers, so I can’t share many of them. But oh, I have thoughts. I was so hopeful about something that could happen in the future of this series, but the author dashed them. To pieces. All my hopes. Gone. With a boom. (Literally.) So not to be dramatic or anything, but I don’t think I’m going to forgive the author for that twist in the story. I’m not happy about that at all. :(
As the book continued, I just wanted to tell Katherine, “honey, not now.” and for the book to go back to his point of view because actual interesting things were happening his point of view. She honestly was Pollyanna at the beginning (and I don’t mean that as a compliment) and then she started to become very selfish. Concerned about her own future and what will happen to her if certain events happen—when there’s major and serious events going on. It didn’t endear her to me at all. At the beginning of the book, she’s absolutely infatuated with him and typically that would be cute but she’s making up things about him and assuming things because he doesn’t tell her at all anything about himself. That concerned me.
This is one of those situations that you play the would you rather game: would you rather have a book with an interesting plot and mediocre characters or a mediocre plot with fantastic characters? I will always choose the latter option. This book, however, was the first. I was so interested into this plot and into the historical details of what was going on especially at the very end, but Jonathan and Katherine were not my favorite characters, to say the least. Whether it be their comments, actions, or stupid different things they said and did, they got on my nerves.
The faith content is very light with Jonathan being Catholic and it being implied that Katherine is Protestant—which isn’t discussed by them at all or even the difference in faith details (especially before confessing of their feelings happens).
The bravery of those in the law enforcement field was definitely highlighted in this book and its plot, and I did really, really like that part. The ending kept me in suspense and I enjoyed that as well, but else wise there really wasn’t much I truly enjoyed from this book, which is very disappointing.
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.
“Amid the hushed city, two hearts must navigate danger and deception, bound by a love that outshines the stars.
Katherine Schneider's life as a dentist in 1913 New York is upended when a patient reveals details of a deadly plot while under the influence of laughing gas. As she is plunged into danger, she seeks help from the dashing Lieutenant Jonathan Birch, a police officer she has long admired from afar.
Jonathan has harbored powerful feelings toward Katherine for years but never acted on them, knowing his dark history is something she could never abide. Now, with her safety on the line, he works alongside her through the nights as they unravel the criminal conspiracy that threatens her . . . even as he keeps his deepest secrets hidden at all costs.”
Series: Book #1 in the “Women of Midtown” series.
Spiritual Content- Thanking God (twice); A Scripture is mentioned; Talks about God & forgiveness; 'H's are not capital when referring to God; Katherine believes that when someone gives themself over to Christ, they can be redeemed no matter what they’ve done; Jonathan feels called to a certain profession (no mention of God with this calling besides the fact we live in a fallen world and then Katherine thinking that God could have called him to it); Jonathan is Catholic, crosses himself (a few times), & goes to a rosary; Katherine is confused to learn that Jonathan is Catholic (it’s never brought up again); Mentions of God & Jesus; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food (including to saints); Mentions of a churches/cathedrals, church going, & priests; Mentions of Mass, holy water, blessings, & rosaries; Mentions of saints; A few mentions of those in the Bible; A few mentions of sins & confessing; A couple mentions of faiths; A couple mentions of a priest offering general absolution to law enforcement officers who wanted it before a dangerous mission; A mention of a Blessed life; A mention of a godsend; A mention of someone being called an angel; A mention of shrines at a cathedral; A mention of a young Jonathan being confirmed in the Catholic Church; A mention of “life in the hereafter”; A mention of the pearly gates;
*Note: Jonathan thinks of himself living in the “twilight between good and evil”; The villain says that the church (along with the police and government) are “agents of oppression and must be destroyed”; Heaven is thanks thrice; Mentions of Achilles; A few mentions of evil people; A few mentions of being lucky; A couple mentions of goddesses; A mention of sons looking at their dad like he walked on water; A mention of some newsies looking at cops as if they were “like gods to who walked the streets”; A mention of Santa Claus.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘heck’, a ‘my word’, a ‘shove off’, a ‘wickedly’, two ‘good heavens’s, three ‘shut up’s, five forms of ‘stupid’, and six forms of ‘idiot’; Mentions of curses (including by Jonathan, said, not written); A mention of a rude gesture being given; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Going to a funeral for a law enforcement officer (up to semi-detailed); Seeing a man commit suicide (with a gun, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Being held at knife-point, Seeing someone killed (shot), A gunshot, Being attacked (including an attempted murder/slit throat), Being drugged, Passing out, Pain, Blood/Bleeding, Injuries, & the Scar (up to semi-detailed); Bombs/Explosions, dismantling bombs, seeing a major injury, seeing a body in pieces, & deaths (up to semi-detailed); *Spoiler but Animal Death Trigger* ; Jonathan intimates a man to gain answers from him (including with a pistol); Jonathan’s life is built on lies and deception (he also lies to Katherine about his background/past and *Spoiler* ); Jonathan tells Katherine that not telling someone something would be an act of omission and not a lie, but she doesn’t see the difference and plans to tell the truth; Jonathan trips a man into the water (knowing that the other man can’t swim); Jonathan has a major rivalry with a man he’s known for years and works with (they make snide comments towards the other); An elderly woman hits Katherine (up to semi-detailed); All about many, many mentions of bombs, how they are made and work, bombers/bomb makers, explosions, fires, plans of harming and killing many, injuries and deaths from the events, & bodies being in pieces from it (up to semi-detailed); All about many mentions of mafia families, rival families and turf wars, extortion, crimes, criminals, weapons, deaths/murders of those in that field, & violence (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of a revolutionary group, an anarchist organization, threats, blackmail, arrests, & prisons/jails (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of lies, lying, liars, & deception (including Jonathan’s father teaching him to lie from the time he started to talk); Mentions of an assassination & assassin; Mentions of executions & pictures of those who were executed (including death penalties & the Mafia believing that Italians who cooperated with the police deserve an execution, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of someone being run-over by horses, an attempted murder (slit throat), the attack, blood/bleeding, & injuries (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a man cutting the Achilles tendons of anyone who betrays him (& using this as a threat, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of wars; Mentions of fights & fighting; Mentions of a brick being thrown through a window, threats, blood/bleeding, & injuries (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of pain, drugs, blood, & dental work (including pulling teeth and injecting numbing drugs, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of poisons & drugs; Mentions of physical abuse from a father & the son feeling worthless due to his words and actions (including that he would hold his son’s head underwater, border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Mentions of a child nearly drowning & another nearly being hit by the subway; Mentions of thieves, thefts, stealing, & smuggling; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & taverns; Mentions of gambling & gamblers; Mentions of cigars, tobacco, & smoking; Mentions of envy; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of a bully; Mentions of the remnants of an owl’s dinner & someone wanting to remove a nest of baby owls (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); A few mentions of gunfire & deaths; A few mentions of gangs; A few mentions of cheating; A few mentions of hatred; A couple mentions of a suicide; A couple mentions of murder victims; A couple mentions of nightmares; A couple mentions of someone dying in their sleep; A mention of a bank robbery; A mention of Jonathan’s mother cuffing him in the face when he would slip up (due to her fear of something happening, not to be cruel); A mention of a murderous widow suspected of killing multiple husbands; A mention of a young boy growing up without a father; A mention of a married couple being “prickly” with each other over money; A mention of eavesdropping; A mention of manure;
*Note: Both Katherina and a co-worker face prejudices about being dentists (because she is female and he is Black); Jonathan accuses Katherine of having a charmed life & not knowing what it’s like to struggle (she’s hurt by this and he apologizes); A man says Jonathan was lucky to have had his mother until he was fourteen; A man calls a relative a “worthless old sack of garbage”; Mentions of prejudices (towards gender, race, and ethnicity; the word ‘bigoted’ is used once when Katherine thinks about submitting something to the police but only has the ethnicity of a suspect); Mentions of Marxists & their thoughts (some call it “claptrap”); Mentions of disrespect towards the police (including negative comments about them); Mentions of a book & a song (Lorna Doone & “The Sugar-Plum Plum Tree”); A few mentions of a man pretending to pull teeth from elephants and tigers for a crowd’s amusement; A couple mentions of anxiety (when Katherine feels that way at a couple parts); A couple mentions of a deep-seated insecurity & Sigmund Freud’s theories; A mention of someone having to be in a wheelchair of the rest of their life du to another’s actions (looked as negative or a terrible thing that could happen to the person); A mention of someone butting in; A mention of a brand (Tiffany & Co.).
Sexual Content- Two hand kisses, a nose kiss, a forehead kiss, a fingers-to-lips touch, three barely-above-not-detailed kisses, and a semi-detailed kiss; Remembering kisses (barely-above-not-detailed); Wanting to kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Shivers, Nearness, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Blushes; Noticing & Staring (up to semi-detailed); Jonathan sneaks into Katherine’s woman-only building so they can be alone together; Jonathan rubs Katherine’s bare feet/ankles (which someone calls “tawdry groping”, barely-above-not-detailed); Katherine wants Jonathan to kiss her when she’s under the influence of drugs (which he won’t because of that reason); A showgirl doesn’t care that a man has a wife since he has dated other women and wants the next one to be her; A showgirl offers Jonathan a generous view of her bosom (all that’s said about it); Mentions of prostitution (the names ‘floozies’ and ‘hookers’ are also used); Mentions of flirting, flirts, & a womanizer (including a known womanizer looking down a woman’s blouse); Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of Jonathan receiving female attention wherever he goes (including girls throwing themselves at him & a chorus girl kissing his cheek and wrapping her arms around his neck, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of blushes & winks; A handful of mentions of a man & his housekeeper “carrying on” (a secret affair); A few mentions of a young man seducing a young woman; A few mentions of crushes; A couple mentions of a showgirl sitting in a (married) man’s lap; A mention of male staff trying to get “overly familiar” with female residents of a boarding house; A mention of a man “groping” a housekeeper; A mention of a man being a “red-blooded American male” (i.e. flirting and being very interested in women); A mention of a married couple kissing; A mention of chaperones; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Katherine fixes her appearance before meeting with Jonathan a few times (because she wants him to think of her as pretty); A couple mentions of Jonathan not liking how a man orders his wife around.
-Katherine Schneider, age 28
-Jonathan Birch, age 34
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1913 (Epilogue in 1915)
352 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars
Hmmm.
Can I just leave it at that? Hmmm.
Elizabeth Camden is an author I’ve read every book from (with the exception of a couple novellas) because I find her historical details and information so interesting. They always lead into different bunny trails of research for me and this book was no different in that regard.
It was different in the regard, however, that it didn’t feel like her other books in the historical setting and details. It didn’t feel like a book by this author. There’s the historical details that are interesting which is on par for her books, but for some reason this book just feels slightly off to me. Remember, this is coming from someone who has read all of her other books. It just didn’t feel like an Elizabeth Camden book. And I have no idea why.
I figured his secret out very quickly. Well, it wasn’t really much of a secret since we kind of have it confirmed about 50 pages in, but the main girl doesn’t get told the information until much later and it causes major problems. I didn’t really care for Jonathan. I find the details of the police work of this historical setting to be interesting, but I really didn’t care for him and it was because of his lying and his petty rivalry with a co-worker. He’s thirty-four years old and still allowing the guy to taunt him. It was border-line ridiculous.
I have a lot of thoughts. But most of them have to do with spoilers, so I can’t share many of them. But oh, I have thoughts. I was so hopeful about something that could happen in the future of this series, but the author dashed them. To pieces. All my hopes. Gone. With a boom. (Literally.) So not to be dramatic or anything, but I don’t think I’m going to forgive the author for that twist in the story. I’m not happy about that at all. :(
As the book continued, I just wanted to tell Katherine, “honey, not now.” and for the book to go back to his point of view because actual interesting things were happening his point of view. She honestly was Pollyanna at the beginning (and I don’t mean that as a compliment) and then she started to become very selfish. Concerned about her own future and what will happen to her if certain events happen—when there’s major and serious events going on. It didn’t endear her to me at all. At the beginning of the book, she’s absolutely infatuated with him and typically that would be cute but she’s making up things about him and assuming things because he doesn’t tell her at all anything about himself. That concerned me.
This is one of those situations that you play the would you rather game: would you rather have a book with an interesting plot and mediocre characters or a mediocre plot with fantastic characters? I will always choose the latter option. This book, however, was the first. I was so interested into this plot and into the historical details of what was going on especially at the very end, but Jonathan and Katherine were not my favorite characters, to say the least. Whether it be their comments, actions, or stupid different things they said and did, they got on my nerves.
The faith content is very light with Jonathan being Catholic and it being implied that Katherine is Protestant—which isn’t discussed by them at all or even the difference in faith details (especially before confessing of their feelings happens).
The bravery of those in the law enforcement field was definitely highlighted in this book and its plot, and I did really, really like that part. The ending kept me in suspense and I enjoyed that as well, but else wise there really wasn’t much I truly enjoyed from this book, which is very disappointing.
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.
February 24, 2024
This was such a captivating and intriguing book; I stayed up until the wee hours to finish it...Not sensible I know but didn't want to put it down really. ;)
It is a wholesome story overall and one that I learned from as well; the dentist she worked for actually legally changed his name from Edgar Parker to Painless Parker as the American Dental Association was suing him because of the claim of dentistry being painless (and that he charged low rates to help the poor who couldn't afford it otherwise which cut into their profits!)
There were Christian type elements with mass, priests, characters crossing themselves, and absolution being given by priests before the men went to disarm a bomb. We as humans may forgive one another for offences we caused etc but it's Jesus who forgives us when one asks him directly and for him to be his or her Saviour.. We can't do that on behalf of the Lord. Saddens me reading this...
Her mysteries are quite compelling with loveable characters and some wearisome ones too of course. She is a marvelous author overall as I have enjoyed several of hers now and can certainly recommend as a gripping mystery :)
It is a wholesome story overall and one that I learned from as well; the dentist she worked for actually legally changed his name from Edgar Parker to Painless Parker as the American Dental Association was suing him because of the claim of dentistry being painless (and that he charged low rates to help the poor who couldn't afford it otherwise which cut into their profits!)
There were Christian type elements with mass, priests, characters crossing themselves, and absolution being given by priests before the men went to disarm a bomb. We as humans may forgive one another for offences we caused etc but it's Jesus who forgives us when one asks him directly and for him to be his or her Saviour.. We can't do that on behalf of the Lord. Saddens me reading this...
Her mysteries are quite compelling with loveable characters and some wearisome ones too of course. She is a marvelous author overall as I have enjoyed several of hers now and can certainly recommend as a gripping mystery :)
January 26, 2024
Wonderful story!
Katherine is a Dentist, in a time where there weren't many women dentists. While she is working on a patient, he is under laughing gas, and he lets some information slip. After a bombing, Katherine realizes her patient had said the name of where the bomb went off. She quickly tells her policeman friend Jonathan and tells him the other names the patient mentioned. Jonathan helps her. Katherine has been admiring Jonathan for 2 years now and he walks her home every night, but he hasn't shown any interest. Now things are changing, but Jonathan is hiding a secret about his past. What will happen when Katherine finds out? And now that Katherine is in danger, can he keep her safe?
I really loved this story! Fantastic writing! I was captivated from the very beginning. I loved Katherine's character! She is so brave, and I love how she was honest and a bit forceful with how she felt about Jonathan. Even though she faced danger, she didn't run from it. Jonathan is great too. He is the hero, even with his past that he had to overcome. If you like historical romances set in 1913, that include mystery, danger and Christian content, this book is for you! I highly recommend While the City Sleeps!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Katherine is a Dentist, in a time where there weren't many women dentists. While she is working on a patient, he is under laughing gas, and he lets some information slip. After a bombing, Katherine realizes her patient had said the name of where the bomb went off. She quickly tells her policeman friend Jonathan and tells him the other names the patient mentioned. Jonathan helps her. Katherine has been admiring Jonathan for 2 years now and he walks her home every night, but he hasn't shown any interest. Now things are changing, but Jonathan is hiding a secret about his past. What will happen when Katherine finds out? And now that Katherine is in danger, can he keep her safe?
I really loved this story! Fantastic writing! I was captivated from the very beginning. I loved Katherine's character! She is so brave, and I love how she was honest and a bit forceful with how she felt about Jonathan. Even though she faced danger, she didn't run from it. Jonathan is great too. He is the hero, even with his past that he had to overcome. If you like historical romances set in 1913, that include mystery, danger and Christian content, this book is for you! I highly recommend While the City Sleeps!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
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August 24, 2023What a fascinating, multi-faceted adventure! I thoroughly enjoyed traipsing all over New York City with Jonathan and Katherine, from posh hotels to subway tunnels to the harbor and points between. Elizabeth Camden brings the bustling metropolis to living color like no one else. Intrigue, romance, history, and danger combine to make While the City Sleeps a novel that will keep readers up late into the night, as well.
February 12, 2024
Elizabeth Camden’s a must read favorite author. I was so excited to read While the City Sleeps, the first book in the Women of Midtown series. I’m happy to say it was absolutely fabulous! I loved the early 1900’s New York setting and the delightful characters that pulled me into the story.
Katherine Schneider’s a dentist from Ohio hoping to make it in New York. She works for a progressive dental clinic that hires dentists to match the diverse clientele of New York City. She works the evening shift and every night for the past two years, a handsome police officer, Jonathan Birch sees her safely home. Though there’s a strong attraction between them, Jonathan hasn’t acted on his feelings in the two years she’s known him.
When a patient Katherine treats divulges information that’s linked to a bombing and may foreshadow future bombings, she confides in Jonathan. This starts the two on a dangerous mission to find out who’s behind the plot to destroy several of New York’s famous landmarks. As they grow closer, Jonathan’s afraid to share a secret he’s been keeping for years that may threaten their relationship and ruin his career. Will he tell Katherine the truth before his secret is exposed?
I loved this story! It was so fun exploring 1913 New York in the evening. In addition to Katherine’s dental practice, she writes an anonymous newspaper column called “While the City Sleeps” which highlights the people who keep New York running overnight. I loved the history included in the story and enjoyed figuring out fact from fiction.
The mystery kept me on the edge of my seat! The suspense ratchets up as they try to identify the suspects and prevent the bombings. I enjoyed trying to figure out the mystery along with Katherine and Jonathan. There were some definite surprises which added an authentic, poignant feel to the story.
I loved Katherine’s and Jonathan’s romance. I loved the treats Jonathan makes for her and his honorable desire to rise above his circumstances. I enjoyed Katherine's personality & willingness to go after what she wanted. Her trust was broken in a previous relationship, so I was on pins a needles wondering how she’d react to Jonathan’s secret. I felt for Jonathan and his understandable need for secrecy.
I also loved the baby owls and the inclusion of real life figures like William Randolph Hurst and “Painless” Parker. I know whenever I pick up a novel by this author, I’ll be treated to fascinating historical tidbits along with a swoon worthy romance. Now I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Highly recommend to historical fiction and romance fans! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher and author. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
Katherine Schneider’s a dentist from Ohio hoping to make it in New York. She works for a progressive dental clinic that hires dentists to match the diverse clientele of New York City. She works the evening shift and every night for the past two years, a handsome police officer, Jonathan Birch sees her safely home. Though there’s a strong attraction between them, Jonathan hasn’t acted on his feelings in the two years she’s known him.
When a patient Katherine treats divulges information that’s linked to a bombing and may foreshadow future bombings, she confides in Jonathan. This starts the two on a dangerous mission to find out who’s behind the plot to destroy several of New York’s famous landmarks. As they grow closer, Jonathan’s afraid to share a secret he’s been keeping for years that may threaten their relationship and ruin his career. Will he tell Katherine the truth before his secret is exposed?
I loved this story! It was so fun exploring 1913 New York in the evening. In addition to Katherine’s dental practice, she writes an anonymous newspaper column called “While the City Sleeps” which highlights the people who keep New York running overnight. I loved the history included in the story and enjoyed figuring out fact from fiction.
The mystery kept me on the edge of my seat! The suspense ratchets up as they try to identify the suspects and prevent the bombings. I enjoyed trying to figure out the mystery along with Katherine and Jonathan. There were some definite surprises which added an authentic, poignant feel to the story.
I loved Katherine’s and Jonathan’s romance. I loved the treats Jonathan makes for her and his honorable desire to rise above his circumstances. I enjoyed Katherine's personality & willingness to go after what she wanted. Her trust was broken in a previous relationship, so I was on pins a needles wondering how she’d react to Jonathan’s secret. I felt for Jonathan and his understandable need for secrecy.
I also loved the baby owls and the inclusion of real life figures like William Randolph Hurst and “Painless” Parker. I know whenever I pick up a novel by this author, I’ll be treated to fascinating historical tidbits along with a swoon worthy romance. Now I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Highly recommend to historical fiction and romance fans! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher and author. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
July 25, 2024
This is my first Elizabeth Camden book. I love the setting and the fact that it features characters who are NOT gilded age elite, which sometimes seems hard to find. Both Jonathan and Katherine have distinct and well defined personalities and fit well together. And the ongoing mystery is an added bonus.
4 stars not 5 because I didn’t feel like Gallagher’s character arc was ultimately fleshed out the way I wanted it to and, given modern politics, I was suspicious/disappointed about the main villains in a Christian novel being *gasp* dirty commies and union men! I can’t pretend to know enough about the era to guess if this is accurate to the time, but it FELT like it spoke to more modern conservative worries about society and economics than gilded age perceptions.
4 stars not 5 because I didn’t feel like Gallagher’s character arc was ultimately fleshed out the way I wanted it to and, given modern politics, I was suspicious/disappointed about the main villains in a Christian novel being *gasp* dirty commies and union men! I can’t pretend to know enough about the era to guess if this is accurate to the time, but it FELT like it spoke to more modern conservative worries about society and economics than gilded age perceptions.
October 20, 2023
While the City Sleeps has become my new favorite Elizabeth Camden book. This intriguing and unique story took so many twists and turns, I couldn’t look away! History, mystery, and romance set against the backdrop of New York City at night—a must read!
April 23, 2024
This is my first full-length Elizabeth Camden novel. I loved her novella
Toward the Sunrise
and expected great things of this novel, especially because so many of my friends love her writing! Unfortunately, I didn’t feel that my expectations were justified… especially at first.
To start off, I loved the setting. NYC is, for some reason, absolutely fascinating to me. And I love early 1900s fiction, so that was a double gift. I really appreciated how the author presented the good side of NYC and especially the hard work of night workers. And it all tied into the title excellently. I was less charmed about the historic aspect, because I felt the book distinctly lacked in 1900s feel. That’s likely a me problem though, as I’m not very used to modern historical fiction. And I definitely enjoyed all the historical information, even if sometimes it seemed to be dumped and not woven in?? I did struggle a lot with the writing style. It felt very tell-y instead of show-y, almost forced at places. So often I felt like the author was summarizing things, trying to jump over time or from event to event too quickly. I particularly struggled with that in the first 10-20% of the novel. It seemed so difficult to get into the characters’ heads… specially Jonathan!
And yet that may have been intentional. Jonathan was SO not typical and I loved it. I don’t want to spill all his secrets but I assure you he has QUITE the story. I loved his uniqueness; I was not so thrilled about his personality. I have a really, really hard time with liars (more on that later). I was also super irritated by his rivalry with Gallagher. I know, I know, it’s part of the plot and it winds up well. But they acted like schoolboys instead of grown, professional policemen most of the time and it. drove. me. nuts! Katherine I liked more. She was very sweet. (Except I was furious about their sneaking into MW all those times and then getting mad at the chaperone for flipping out. THEY LITERALLY, DELIBERATELY, BROKE THE RULES. And him a policeman IN UNIFORM! I was just NOT impressed). Anyways, Gallagher was a super cool dude who deserved his own story. Also Katherine’s parents were THE BEST, and I loved Alvin & Jack so much.
Besides my dislike for the hero, I enjoyed the suspense and drama of the plot. Especially the portrait of 1900 police (you know my love for the blue) and also dentists, because that’s just cool. And the Martha Washington and the owls. And the whole side part about the Italians. As a MCK myself, I LOVE seeing different cultures in books. And the message was fabulous. I, personally, have a lot of trauma related to lying and deeply struggle to forgive people who lie. Seeing Katherine handle that very issue was excellent and something I happened to need to hear right now. And while it took him the whole book, our lying hero did eventually get his act together and fix his two glaring issues. So the end of the book did redeem the beginning for me. I appreciated the mystery a lot (so complex!), and I particularly liked the drama of the climax and the heroism of the police.
Overall, I’m not sure what rating to give this? Probably 3.5, not quite 4 stars. I’ll definitely try Elizabeth Camden again and might even reread this—but it just wasn’t fully a hit for me.
Content: kissing, mild violence; catholicism; mention of a very minor character having an out-of-wedlock affair. I was personally distressed by the interrogation scene. It’s nothing bad; just hurts my heart. Lindsey from Books for Christian Girls has a better content review. ;)
A Favourite Quote: “So-called easy roads can often become very hard,” he said gently. He stood, then leaned down and whispered in her ear, “The hardest step is usually the first one, but you can do it, Nance.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “You’re lucky to have such a tidy husband,” a nurse complimented Lilian. Her father was within earshot, and her mother wouldn’t want the praise to inflate his ego.
“You wouldn’t say that if you had to dust the walls of his house once a month for the past thirty years.”
“Dust the walls?” the nurse asked in confusion.
“It’s the only way to keep paint looking fresh,” her father defended.
“Yes, but he also asks me to polish the bottom of his shoes,” Lilian added.
“That was one time,” her father said. “I do it myself now.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
To start off, I loved the setting. NYC is, for some reason, absolutely fascinating to me. And I love early 1900s fiction, so that was a double gift. I really appreciated how the author presented the good side of NYC and especially the hard work of night workers. And it all tied into the title excellently. I was less charmed about the historic aspect, because I felt the book distinctly lacked in 1900s feel. That’s likely a me problem though, as I’m not very used to modern historical fiction. And I definitely enjoyed all the historical information, even if sometimes it seemed to be dumped and not woven in?? I did struggle a lot with the writing style. It felt very tell-y instead of show-y, almost forced at places. So often I felt like the author was summarizing things, trying to jump over time or from event to event too quickly. I particularly struggled with that in the first 10-20% of the novel. It seemed so difficult to get into the characters’ heads… specially Jonathan!
And yet that may have been intentional. Jonathan was SO not typical and I loved it. I don’t want to spill all his secrets but I assure you he has QUITE the story. I loved his uniqueness; I was not so thrilled about his personality. I have a really, really hard time with liars (more on that later). I was also super irritated by his rivalry with Gallagher. I know, I know, it’s part of the plot and it winds up well. But they acted like schoolboys instead of grown, professional policemen most of the time and it. drove. me. nuts! Katherine I liked more. She was very sweet. (Except I was furious about their sneaking into MW all those times and then getting mad at the chaperone for flipping out. THEY LITERALLY, DELIBERATELY, BROKE THE RULES. And him a policeman IN UNIFORM! I was just NOT impressed). Anyways, Gallagher was a super cool dude who deserved his own story. Also Katherine’s parents were THE BEST, and I loved Alvin & Jack so much.
Besides my dislike for the hero, I enjoyed the suspense and drama of the plot. Especially the portrait of 1900 police (you know my love for the blue) and also dentists, because that’s just cool. And the Martha Washington and the owls. And the whole side part about the Italians. As a MCK myself, I LOVE seeing different cultures in books. And the message was fabulous. I, personally, have a lot of trauma related to lying and deeply struggle to forgive people who lie. Seeing Katherine handle that very issue was excellent and something I happened to need to hear right now. And while it took him the whole book, our lying hero did eventually get his act together and fix his two glaring issues. So the end of the book did redeem the beginning for me. I appreciated the mystery a lot (so complex!), and I particularly liked the drama of the climax and the heroism of the police.
Overall, I’m not sure what rating to give this? Probably 3.5, not quite 4 stars. I’ll definitely try Elizabeth Camden again and might even reread this—but it just wasn’t fully a hit for me.
Content: kissing, mild violence; catholicism; mention of a very minor character having an out-of-wedlock affair. I was personally distressed by the interrogation scene. It’s nothing bad; just hurts my heart. Lindsey from Books for Christian Girls has a better content review. ;)
A Favourite Quote: “So-called easy roads can often become very hard,” he said gently. He stood, then leaned down and whispered in her ear, “The hardest step is usually the first one, but you can do it, Nance.”
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “You’re lucky to have such a tidy husband,” a nurse complimented Lilian. Her father was within earshot, and her mother wouldn’t want the praise to inflate his ego.
“You wouldn’t say that if you had to dust the walls of his house once a month for the past thirty years.”
“Dust the walls?” the nurse asked in confusion.
“It’s the only way to keep paint looking fresh,” her father defended.
“Yes, but he also asks me to polish the bottom of his shoes,” Lilian added.
“That was one time,” her father said. “I do it myself now.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
February 27, 2024
1913 and lower NY City is a colorful time and place. Author, Elizabeth Camden, does a good job opening doors to ethnic neighborhoods, industrial crime, the nature of families, (birth and otherwise), plus the growth and corruption of the city and its management, including the police and politicians.
Blessedly, Camden does the above without political commentary. By far, her narrative comes thru as descriptive or as research. It’s what I enjoy about historical fiction: getting to learn about and from those that came before me. There are a few characters that are actually historical figures whom Camden details in the back of the book. Take a few minutes to read about them prior to starting the story and it will enhance your experience.
If you’ve ever spent time in lower Manhattan, you’ll recognize some of the locations and streets described. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes having to do with publishing and icons of the business. Also what I found particularly entertaining was the brief scenes including Nona and the Italian family of Lt. Birch. It reminded me so much of my family - minus the Mafia and murder!
Katherine doesn’t spend too much time doing dental work in the story. She seems more interested in being a columnist for the newspaper. The romantic relationship is very slow moving and completely clean; G rated for sure. Unlike most of Camden’s books, the faith element is very subdued; she’s usually more overt. Perhaps the book is being positioned as mainstream?
A good historical fiction story that moves quickly, offers a look at overnight jobs, women breaking into a previously all male vocation, a bit of Mafia, mystery and real people trying to make a world for all the real folks, WHILE THE CITY SLEEPS📚
Read & Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
Blessedly, Camden does the above without political commentary. By far, her narrative comes thru as descriptive or as research. It’s what I enjoy about historical fiction: getting to learn about and from those that came before me. There are a few characters that are actually historical figures whom Camden details in the back of the book. Take a few minutes to read about them prior to starting the story and it will enhance your experience.
If you’ve ever spent time in lower Manhattan, you’ll recognize some of the locations and streets described. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes having to do with publishing and icons of the business. Also what I found particularly entertaining was the brief scenes including Nona and the Italian family of Lt. Birch. It reminded me so much of my family - minus the Mafia and murder!
Katherine doesn’t spend too much time doing dental work in the story. She seems more interested in being a columnist for the newspaper. The romantic relationship is very slow moving and completely clean; G rated for sure. Unlike most of Camden’s books, the faith element is very subdued; she’s usually more overt. Perhaps the book is being positioned as mainstream?
A good historical fiction story that moves quickly, offers a look at overnight jobs, women breaking into a previously all male vocation, a bit of Mafia, mystery and real people trying to make a world for all the real folks, WHILE THE CITY SLEEPS📚
Read & Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
February 15, 2024
First book in a new series, releasing in February 2024. Katherine and Jonathan are such great characters. Katherine is cheerful, optimistic and looks for the good in everyone. As a female dentist practicing in 1913 NYC, she works late hours at a clinic. Jonathan, a police officer who works the night shift, has been escorting Katherine from her office to the subway after her late shift for two years. When Katherine becomes part of a police investigation, Jonathan struggles to keep her safe, keep his feelings hidden and keep his past buried. There’s action, intrigue, and emotional struggles that keep the story moving. I really enjoyed the characters, the mystery, the setting, and the themes of forgiveness.
I received an advanced copy to review. A positive review was not required, all opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
I received an advanced copy to review. A positive review was not required, all opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
February 27, 2024
1913 and lower NY City is a colorful time and place. Author, Elizabeth Camden, does a good job opening the doors to ethnic neighborhoods, industrial crime, the nature of families, (birth and otherwise), and the growth and corruption of the city and its management, including the police and politicians.
Blessedly, Camden does the above without political commentary. By far, her narrative comes thru as descriptive or as historical research. It’s what I enjoy about historical fiction; getting to learn about and from those that came before me. There are a few characters that are actual historical figures which Camden details in the back of the book. Take a few minutes to read about them prior to starting the story.
If you’ve ever spent time in lower Manhattan, you’ll recognize some of the locations and streets described. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes having to do with publishing and brief encounters with icons in the business. Also what I found particularly entertaining was the brief scenes including Nona and the Italian family of Lt. Birch. It reminded me so much of my family, minus the Mafia and murder!
Katherine doesn’t spend too much time doing dental work in the story. She seems more interested in being a columnist for the newspaper. The romantic relationship is very slow moving and completely clean; G rated for sure. Unlike most of Camden’s books, the faith element is very subdued; she’s usually more overt. Perhaps this book is being presented as more mainstream.
A good historical fiction story that moves quickly and offers a look at overnight jobs, women breaking into a previously all male vocation, a bit of .Mafia, mystery and real people trying to make a better world for all the real folks, WHILE THE CITY SLEEPS📚
Read & Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
Blessedly, Camden does the above without political commentary. By far, her narrative comes thru as descriptive or as historical research. It’s what I enjoy about historical fiction; getting to learn about and from those that came before me. There are a few characters that are actual historical figures which Camden details in the back of the book. Take a few minutes to read about them prior to starting the story.
If you’ve ever spent time in lower Manhattan, you’ll recognize some of the locations and streets described. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes having to do with publishing and brief encounters with icons in the business. Also what I found particularly entertaining was the brief scenes including Nona and the Italian family of Lt. Birch. It reminded me so much of my family, minus the Mafia and murder!
Katherine doesn’t spend too much time doing dental work in the story. She seems more interested in being a columnist for the newspaper. The romantic relationship is very slow moving and completely clean; G rated for sure. Unlike most of Camden’s books, the faith element is very subdued; she’s usually more overt. Perhaps this book is being presented as more mainstream.
A good historical fiction story that moves quickly and offers a look at overnight jobs, women breaking into a previously all male vocation, a bit of .Mafia, mystery and real people trying to make a better world for all the real folks, WHILE THE CITY SLEEPS📚
Read & Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC, with thanks
November 17, 2023
Another fantastic series debut!!! I always love Camden's unique characters and settings, and While the City Sleeps did not disappoint. Jonathan and Katherine were so easy to root for, even if their relationship was a little unbalanced at times; real-life characters such as "Painless" Parker were absolutely fascinating; and the mystery took several wonderfully unexpected turns! Definitely recommend, and definitely looking forward to the rest of this new series!
July 21, 2024
I really enjoyed the mystery and action of this book. The descriptions of NYC in that time really drew me into the time period. I liked the stories of the different Italian crime families. Jonathan making the bread made me think of Johnnie in Moonstruck. :) Love that movie.
February 16, 2024
Author Elizabeth Camden always writes fascinating heroes and heroines, and While the City Sleeps is her latest vibrant take on fictional characters with a sprinkle of real-life history. The New York City setting comes to life in the tale, as well, acting as a main character all its own with its interesting night life and unexpected personalities.
Secrets and potential crimes wind through this story of romance. The intrigue and reveals keep the pace flowing nicely as the reader meets and falls in love with the match between Katherine and Jonathan. While their acquaintance is already established off-page as the story begins, events in their lives thrust them beyond a tentative interaction to a mutual reliance on city knowledge and social connections. I especially love the details Camden incorporates to make an already complex situation feel like real life.
Romance is at the heart of the story, even as dangerous situations draw in emotions, sacrifice, and questions of loyalty. Jonathan is a Paul Newman-ish hero (at least that’s how I see him!) who has secrets of his own (like mad baking skills), a connection to an Italian community, a dry sense of humor, and absolute conviction to protect the innocent and stand for honor. Katherine is fully his match — when it comes to their relationship, I love how she is assertive in a way he isn’t and how their dynamic explores some believable realities of relationships right down to disagreements and some tough subjects.
I particularly empathize with the way Katherine approaches life: she’s spunky, determined, and brave. One tiny moment I noted that ticked all the romance boxes for me was when Jonathan had a cerebral attraction to Katherine’s handwriting. It speaks of their connection and their mutual respect for each other.
If you have enjoyed Elizabeth Camden’s stories in the past, this is a good place to get back into her writing as it is the promising start to a new series. I’d also recommend this book for fans of Jocelyn Green and Rachel Fordham.
Thank you to the publisher for the digital review copy. This is my honest review.
Secrets and potential crimes wind through this story of romance. The intrigue and reveals keep the pace flowing nicely as the reader meets and falls in love with the match between Katherine and Jonathan. While their acquaintance is already established off-page as the story begins, events in their lives thrust them beyond a tentative interaction to a mutual reliance on city knowledge and social connections. I especially love the details Camden incorporates to make an already complex situation feel like real life.
Romance is at the heart of the story, even as dangerous situations draw in emotions, sacrifice, and questions of loyalty. Jonathan is a Paul Newman-ish hero (at least that’s how I see him!) who has secrets of his own (like mad baking skills), a connection to an Italian community, a dry sense of humor, and absolute conviction to protect the innocent and stand for honor. Katherine is fully his match — when it comes to their relationship, I love how she is assertive in a way he isn’t and how their dynamic explores some believable realities of relationships right down to disagreements and some tough subjects.
I particularly empathize with the way Katherine approaches life: she’s spunky, determined, and brave. One tiny moment I noted that ticked all the romance boxes for me was when Jonathan had a cerebral attraction to Katherine’s handwriting. It speaks of their connection and their mutual respect for each other.
If you have enjoyed Elizabeth Camden’s stories in the past, this is a good place to get back into her writing as it is the promising start to a new series. I’d also recommend this book for fans of Jocelyn Green and Rachel Fordham.
Thank you to the publisher for the digital review copy. This is my honest review.
February 24, 2024
3.5⭐️
I love Elizabeth Camdens books, so I’m always looking forward to her releases. Her writing is amazing, and her stories are for the most part phenomenal! And the way she can write romance👌🏻
This book missed the mark for me. 😬
I really enjoyed her writing in this one. And the mystery aspect with the bombings and the mafia and anarchist groups was fascinating to me! It kept me stumped and turning pages to find out what was going to happen!
However the romance was not it for me. It started out fine; it was slow burn which I don’t love, but it was cute. I was leery of Jonathan from the start, and then as we learned more about him I was beginning to cringe a little because I knew things weren’t going to go well, mainly because we had the DREADED miscommunication trope🙄
As the book goes on, yes we see Jonathan has problems and I understood why Katherine was upset. But then Katherine also has issues that when Jonathan would point out, I was like hmm he’s got a good point. So I guess since they both had red flags, which I won’t get into for spoilers, it was fine with me that they ended up together. 🤷🏼♀️
This book was fine; not anything to write home about, but I did like it to an extent.
I love Elizabeth Camdens books, so I’m always looking forward to her releases. Her writing is amazing, and her stories are for the most part phenomenal! And the way she can write romance👌🏻
This book missed the mark for me. 😬
I really enjoyed her writing in this one. And the mystery aspect with the bombings and the mafia and anarchist groups was fascinating to me! It kept me stumped and turning pages to find out what was going to happen!
However the romance was not it for me. It started out fine; it was slow burn which I don’t love, but it was cute. I was leery of Jonathan from the start, and then as we learned more about him I was beginning to cringe a little because I knew things weren’t going to go well, mainly because we had the DREADED miscommunication trope🙄
As the book goes on, yes we see Jonathan has problems and I understood why Katherine was upset. But then Katherine also has issues that when Jonathan would point out, I was like hmm he’s got a good point. So I guess since they both had red flags, which I won’t get into for spoilers, it was fine with me that they ended up together. 🤷🏼♀️
This book was fine; not anything to write home about, but I did like it to an extent.
February 28, 2024
This audiobook kept getting better and better. There were a few cliche moments, but I loved it.
And don’t let anyone tell you that a scene where the MMC whispers Italian in the FMC’s ear won’t make your heart race. 😂
And don’t let anyone tell you that a scene where the MMC whispers Italian in the FMC’s ear won’t make your heart race. 😂
March 4, 2024
Elizabeth Camden consistently finds the most intriguing tidbits of history to build her stories around, and I am here for it. In While the City Sleeps, 1913 New York bustles with a vibrant hum across the pages – the sights, the sounds, the smells almost tangible as Camden easily immerses her readers into the story. Even back then, the energy of the Midtown setting (including Times Square) was palpable at night. For while most of the city was sleeping, there was still a hive of night shift employees, subway engineers, newspaper people, theater goers (and players), police officers, doctors, nurses… and even dentists still very much awake and working. I was particularly fascinated by the fact that NYC had a Bomb Squad in 1913 (I didn’t realize it dated back that far) and by Edgar ‘Painless’ Parker. I admired his vision for dental clinics open late to appeal to the working class and hiring dentists from all walks of life and nationalities, including women, so every patient would feel comfortable. Granted, he is certainly a colorful character that toes a fine line of ethics in advertising, but I really enjoyed learning about his offices and having Katherine employed there as a dentist. It gave the story – and her character – even more interesting layers and fit the plot perfectly.
Speaking of Katherine, both she and Jonathan are characters that readers will quickly love. Katherine is spunky and independent, and I loved her relationship with her parents and her friendships with the girls at the Martha Washington (a setting I also found fascinating & could picture so vividly thanks to Camden’s descriptions). I absolutely adored the way Jonathan waited for her each night to walk her home, long before they began anything romantic between them. He patiently and gently just shows up for her so often in this story – mouthwatering baked goods at the ready – and this just made him all the more swoonworthy to me. Is he perfect? No. Camden writes some wonderfully flawed heroes, and Jonathan is no exception. He has some rough edges that need to be redeemed, but so does Katherine. And it was a joy to watch them work through these weaknesses together and come out stronger.
Bottom Line: Bomb Squads. The Mafia. The New York Times. The subway. Times Square. No, this isn’t a new episode of Law and Order but rather a compelling historical romance that gives us an ‘owl’s-eye view’ (if you know, you know) of a familiar city over 100 years ago. I loved seeing these institutions as they were back then, via the magic of Elizabeth Camden’s talented storytelling, and found myself amazed at how long they’ve been an active part of New York City life. While the City Sleeps takes these fascinating pockets of history and weaves them into a timeless romance between two vibrant characters who readily claimed a place in my heart. The road to happily-ever-after is certainly not a smooth one for Katherine and Jonathan, but it’s so worth it in the end – and some super-swoony kisses help too! Another richly written tale from the master of progressive-era fiction. I can’t wait to see which woman of Midtown is featured next!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Speaking of Katherine, both she and Jonathan are characters that readers will quickly love. Katherine is spunky and independent, and I loved her relationship with her parents and her friendships with the girls at the Martha Washington (a setting I also found fascinating & could picture so vividly thanks to Camden’s descriptions). I absolutely adored the way Jonathan waited for her each night to walk her home, long before they began anything romantic between them. He patiently and gently just shows up for her so often in this story – mouthwatering baked goods at the ready – and this just made him all the more swoonworthy to me. Is he perfect? No. Camden writes some wonderfully flawed heroes, and Jonathan is no exception. He has some rough edges that need to be redeemed, but so does Katherine. And it was a joy to watch them work through these weaknesses together and come out stronger.
Bottom Line: Bomb Squads. The Mafia. The New York Times. The subway. Times Square. No, this isn’t a new episode of Law and Order but rather a compelling historical romance that gives us an ‘owl’s-eye view’ (if you know, you know) of a familiar city over 100 years ago. I loved seeing these institutions as they were back then, via the magic of Elizabeth Camden’s talented storytelling, and found myself amazed at how long they’ve been an active part of New York City life. While the City Sleeps takes these fascinating pockets of history and weaves them into a timeless romance between two vibrant characters who readily claimed a place in my heart. The road to happily-ever-after is certainly not a smooth one for Katherine and Jonathan, but it’s so worth it in the end – and some super-swoony kisses help too! Another richly written tale from the master of progressive-era fiction. I can’t wait to see which woman of Midtown is featured next!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
December 8, 2023
This was my first book to read by Elizabeth Camden and I enjoyed it! The plot really interested me as it follows the story of a female dentist living in New York City during the early 1900s. Since I haven’t read any books like that before, I was really excited to read While the City Sleeps!
I would describe this book as a historical romantic suspense. The plot was fast-paced and filled with suspense which I really liked!
There was a lot of interesting history about New York during the early 1900s as well as history on dentistry during that time.
As the title suggests, much of this story takes place at night which I really enjoyed! Since Jonathan was a bit of a baker, this book also made me hungry as I read the descriptions of the sweets he baked!
I liked both Katherine and Jonathan but Johnathan was probably my favorite of the two. I really liked his character! He had an interesting backstory which made him an intriguing character. I also just found him to be a likable guy. While I liked Katherine too, I got frustrated with her a few times, particularly for how she treated Jonathan a few times during the book. While her reasons were understandable, she just frustrated me from time to time. That being said, I did admire how she admitted when she was wrong as well as her optimistic attitude. I also enjoyed watching her character growth throughout the book.
The romance between Katherine and Jonathan was really sweet as well!
There was also some faith content throughout that I enjoyed.
I also appreciated how clean this book was, especially the romance. There is some mild violence but those scenes are brief.
In conclusion, I enjoyed While the City Sleeps! I enjoyed the descriptions of the city at night and the delicious foods. It made the book atmospheric. I also enjoyed the suspense, history, and romance. If you’re a fan of historical romantic suspense, I think you’ll really enjoy this one!
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a complimentary copy! All opinions are my own.
I would describe this book as a historical romantic suspense. The plot was fast-paced and filled with suspense which I really liked!
There was a lot of interesting history about New York during the early 1900s as well as history on dentistry during that time.
As the title suggests, much of this story takes place at night which I really enjoyed! Since Jonathan was a bit of a baker, this book also made me hungry as I read the descriptions of the sweets he baked!
I liked both Katherine and Jonathan but Johnathan was probably my favorite of the two. I really liked his character! He had an interesting backstory which made him an intriguing character. I also just found him to be a likable guy. While I liked Katherine too, I got frustrated with her a few times, particularly for how she treated Jonathan a few times during the book. While her reasons were understandable, she just frustrated me from time to time. That being said, I did admire how she admitted when she was wrong as well as her optimistic attitude. I also enjoyed watching her character growth throughout the book.
The romance between Katherine and Jonathan was really sweet as well!
There was also some faith content throughout that I enjoyed.
I also appreciated how clean this book was, especially the romance. There is some mild violence but those scenes are brief.
In conclusion, I enjoyed While the City Sleeps! I enjoyed the descriptions of the city at night and the delicious foods. It made the book atmospheric. I also enjoyed the suspense, history, and romance. If you’re a fan of historical romantic suspense, I think you’ll really enjoy this one!
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a complimentary copy! All opinions are my own.
January 26, 2024
#WhiletheCitySleeps #NetGalley
The first in a set of books labeled Women of Midtown. Elizabeth Camden has a way of writing that draws the reader in her descriptive writing style flows well with the story.
Katherine comes to New York from Ohio after a failed relationship. She works as a dentist and writes a column for a newspaper titled "While the City Sleeps."" When a bomb scare makes its way into the city, Katherine realizes th at one of her patients spouted off words under a drugged state, that didn'tmake sense. But the words he spoke were some of the places being bombed. Which puts her life in danger.
Jonathan Birch is a police officer who meets Katherine each night as she gets off from work and makes sure she gets safely on the subway. Katherine is frustrated because Jonathan doesn't seem to be interested in her. Jonathan has his own reasons for not pursuing a relationship with Katherine. As the bomber gets more aggressive, life for Katherine gets harder. I can't wait for the next installment of the Women of Midtown.
The first in a set of books labeled Women of Midtown. Elizabeth Camden has a way of writing that draws the reader in her descriptive writing style flows well with the story.
Katherine comes to New York from Ohio after a failed relationship. She works as a dentist and writes a column for a newspaper titled "While the City Sleeps."" When a bomb scare makes its way into the city, Katherine realizes th at one of her patients spouted off words under a drugged state, that didn'tmake sense. But the words he spoke were some of the places being bombed. Which puts her life in danger.
Jonathan Birch is a police officer who meets Katherine each night as she gets off from work and makes sure she gets safely on the subway. Katherine is frustrated because Jonathan doesn't seem to be interested in her. Jonathan has his own reasons for not pursuing a relationship with Katherine. As the bomber gets more aggressive, life for Katherine gets harder. I can't wait for the next installment of the Women of Midtown.
February 10, 2025
I loved this book! The mystery and intrigued had me hooked from the beginning. I love the era and the background story, apparently I'm a fan of Italian mob history...although I am Italian. The romance was very sweet and I loved the slow burn feel of the story. I really liked the characters and I immediately picked up book two. 6⭐
*Thank you to Beyond the Book Box for a complimentary copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.
*Thank you to Beyond the Book Box for a complimentary copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.
February 12, 2024
"So-called easy Roads can often become very hard"
Captivating mystery romance with drama, danger, and historical intrigue, Well-written plot, sweet clean romance. NYC 1913 setting.
I enjoyed reading about the vivid descriptions of the city at night and the delicious food. Among the characters, Jonathan stood out for me, as his interesting backstory made him an intriguing character. Katherine, a dentist with a very optimistic attitude, also caught my attention as I enjoyed witnessing her character growth throughout the book.
Elizabeth Camden's books are a must-read if you enjoy Historical Romance novels with mystery and adventure.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for providing me with an eARC.
Captivating mystery romance with drama, danger, and historical intrigue, Well-written plot, sweet clean romance. NYC 1913 setting.
I enjoyed reading about the vivid descriptions of the city at night and the delicious food. Among the characters, Jonathan stood out for me, as his interesting backstory made him an intriguing character. Katherine, a dentist with a very optimistic attitude, also caught my attention as I enjoyed witnessing her character growth throughout the book.
Elizabeth Camden's books are a must-read if you enjoy Historical Romance novels with mystery and adventure.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers for providing me with an eARC.
May 6, 2024
Another fabulous book by Elizabeth Camden. I went into this a little concerned. I had heard mixed reviews so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was delighted to find myself absolutely loving it!
Katherine Schneider is a dentist in 1913 New York City. While performing dental care on a client, she overhears suspicious information that may be linked to a violent criminal plot. As she shares her information with New York police officer Jonathan Birch, her life is upended by the danger it brings her way. Her secret feelings for Officer Birch complicate the situation; as does his secretive nature.
What will become of the two of them?
I loved this story! I found it to be rather atmospheric. Early 1900’s New York City sounds beautiful. I love how Camden describes the architecture, culture and city life during this time period. I found the plot quite interesting. It was intriguing to see into the life of a police officer in 1913 New York. The dental details were less than I expected. Much of the story focuses more on the criminal plot and how it intersects in the lives of our two main characters. As a history lover, I genuinely enjoyed this! I’m looking forward to the next one!
Katherine Schneider is a dentist in 1913 New York City. While performing dental care on a client, she overhears suspicious information that may be linked to a violent criminal plot. As she shares her information with New York police officer Jonathan Birch, her life is upended by the danger it brings her way. Her secret feelings for Officer Birch complicate the situation; as does his secretive nature.
What will become of the two of them?
I loved this story! I found it to be rather atmospheric. Early 1900’s New York City sounds beautiful. I love how Camden describes the architecture, culture and city life during this time period. I found the plot quite interesting. It was intriguing to see into the life of a police officer in 1913 New York. The dental details were less than I expected. Much of the story focuses more on the criminal plot and how it intersects in the lives of our two main characters. As a history lover, I genuinely enjoyed this! I’m looking forward to the next one!
February 29, 2024
Story Enjoyment Rating: 8.5/10 Christian Faith Rating: 2/3
While the City Sleeps by Elizabeth Camden, is a Christian historical romantic suspense book.
It is following Kathryn, who is a female dentist working late shifts in 1915 New York, and Jonathan, a night shift policeman with a past.
One night, one of Kathryn’s patients reveals a secret about a crime while under laughing gas and this puts Kathryn in danger.
This reads a bit like a contemporary romantic suspense book. There are police procedural elements (although obviously historical).
I enjoyed the suspense and mystery of the book. I loved all the different characters and Italian mafia undertones. The main characters are quite different from each other. Kathryn is sweet and trusting and believes in people and in God’s ability to restore them. Although, that belief is tested throughout the book.
Jonathan and Kathryn have a “will-they-won’t-they” type of romance. At times, I felt this was being stretched out unnaturally. A couple of time they seemed to act out of character, just to keep the tension in their relationship going until the end of the book.
There was some Christian content to the story. I believe one character is Catholic and the other Protestant.
I appreciated seeing that the choices of the characters had consequences.
Content: contains some violence.
While the City Sleeps by Elizabeth Camden, is a Christian historical romantic suspense book.
It is following Kathryn, who is a female dentist working late shifts in 1915 New York, and Jonathan, a night shift policeman with a past.
One night, one of Kathryn’s patients reveals a secret about a crime while under laughing gas and this puts Kathryn in danger.
This reads a bit like a contemporary romantic suspense book. There are police procedural elements (although obviously historical).
I enjoyed the suspense and mystery of the book. I loved all the different characters and Italian mafia undertones. The main characters are quite different from each other. Kathryn is sweet and trusting and believes in people and in God’s ability to restore them. Although, that belief is tested throughout the book.
Jonathan and Kathryn have a “will-they-won’t-they” type of romance. At times, I felt this was being stretched out unnaturally. A couple of time they seemed to act out of character, just to keep the tension in their relationship going until the end of the book.
There was some Christian content to the story. I believe one character is Catholic and the other Protestant.
I appreciated seeing that the choices of the characters had consequences.
Content: contains some violence.
January 15, 2024
Elizabeth Camden is one of my top 5 authors. I will read anything, even if I don't know the title or synopsis. Say "hey this is an Elizabeth Camden" and I'm good. So when I heard that there was a new Elizabeth Camden--I didn't need to know anything else. LOL.
While the City Sleeps is the first book in the new series The Women of Midtown. This book explores the nightlife of New York City's working class. The title comes from the name of the article that the lead character Katherine writes for a paper in town. She interviews people who work various jobs as a nightshift to give them a face and celebrate their work. She herself is a rarity--a certified college graduated female dentist who works a nightshift at a NYC dental clinic.
The story's plot really centers around the things that happen in the first chapter when Katherine administers laughing gas to her patient and he starts singing songs about weird topics and saying strange names. Dismissing it as effects of the drug--she later rethinks this assessment when months later one of the things mentioned was a shift that was set on fire by a bomb. Then a second bomb goes off at a location with another name the man mentions...
This brings in now a working relationship between police officer JOnathan Birch and Katherine. Jonathan Birch has secrets that no one can know for they will ruin his career and possible bring danger to his life. And because of that, no matter how much he desires, he cannot pursue the beautiful lady dentist. But he can sure make it his business to take her seriously with her news.
The rest of the book works through the mystery of who the bombers are...and also whether or not Katherine and Jonathan will ever have a life together when she stumbles upon his secrets and lies. There is also an element of having to not let fear control you life.
This is a Christian historical fiction, but there is little to none faith elements in it. no big "come to Jesus moment" no scriptures. it's just more historical fiction than CHRISTIAN historical fiction. I really wish that those who write for Christian fiction actually made sure that element was OBVIOUS in their books. Otherwise, what's the point? It's just clean fiction.
4 Stars. I hope Inga's story is next with it shifting to WW1!
*I was given a complimentary copy of the ARC from the publisher and NetGAlley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
While the City Sleeps is the first book in the new series The Women of Midtown. This book explores the nightlife of New York City's working class. The title comes from the name of the article that the lead character Katherine writes for a paper in town. She interviews people who work various jobs as a nightshift to give them a face and celebrate their work. She herself is a rarity--a certified college graduated female dentist who works a nightshift at a NYC dental clinic.
The story's plot really centers around the things that happen in the first chapter when Katherine administers laughing gas to her patient and he starts singing songs about weird topics and saying strange names. Dismissing it as effects of the drug--she later rethinks this assessment when months later one of the things mentioned was a shift that was set on fire by a bomb. Then a second bomb goes off at a location with another name the man mentions...
This brings in now a working relationship between police officer JOnathan Birch and Katherine. Jonathan Birch has secrets that no one can know for they will ruin his career and possible bring danger to his life. And because of that, no matter how much he desires, he cannot pursue the beautiful lady dentist. But he can sure make it his business to take her seriously with her news.
The rest of the book works through the mystery of who the bombers are...and also whether or not Katherine and Jonathan will ever have a life together when she stumbles upon his secrets and lies. There is also an element of having to not let fear control you life.
This is a Christian historical fiction, but there is little to none faith elements in it. no big "come to Jesus moment" no scriptures. it's just more historical fiction than CHRISTIAN historical fiction. I really wish that those who write for Christian fiction actually made sure that element was OBVIOUS in their books. Otherwise, what's the point? It's just clean fiction.
4 Stars. I hope Inga's story is next with it shifting to WW1!
*I was given a complimentary copy of the ARC from the publisher and NetGAlley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
December 14, 2024
This is one of the best Elizabeth Camden stories I've read in a while! I absolutely loved the storyline! 🩵
We're solving a mystery set in 1913 New York City.
We're watching a sweet love story unfold, despite the many bumps along the way.
And we're learning to love two very quirky characters.
It's an incredible tale and you don't want to miss it! 🩵
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
We're solving a mystery set in 1913 New York City.
We're watching a sweet love story unfold, despite the many bumps along the way.
And we're learning to love two very quirky characters.
It's an incredible tale and you don't want to miss it! 🩵
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 26, 2024
Всяка книга на Elizabeth Camden, която съм чела, започвайки с Beyond All Dreams, обхваща някакъв момент от историята, в който обикновените хора проявяват талант, енергия, жертвоготовност и напредничаво мислене. While The City Sleeps ни води буквално и преносно в тъмните места на един космополитен град през 1913 - та година. Ню Йорк е жив и енергичен дори през нощта. И неговото нестихващо сърце бие благодарение на труда на хората, работещи нощна смяна на различни позиции. Полицаи, журналисти, машинисти в метрото, лекари, медицински сестри, служители в хотели, пожарникари, инженери в електро и помпени станции... Всички те жертват уюта на дома си и спокойствието на нощния си сън, за да функционира всичко в града непрестанно. Но заедно с тях през нощта активно действат и престъпниците. Някои, от които са много по - опасни и с много по - ужасяващи намерения от дребни кражби и пиянски сбивания. И в техните, изцапани с кръв ръце е съдбата на нищо неподозиращите граждани. Само полицията може да проследи опасните им намерения. Подпомогната от енергични гражданин. Или от случайна грешка от страна на самите престъпници.
Някои книги ме правят тъжна. Заради реалистичното представяне на тъмните моменти в живота ни. Заради факта колко сме безпомощни пред лицето на маниакални екстремисти, които могат да превърнат всеки мирен човек в жертва на терористичен акт. Заради това, че понякога късно даваме прошка и късно разбираме, че се вълнуваме от дребни неща. Вместо да използваме всеки момент на тази земя да обичаме и да се заобикаляме с красота.
* " Good people coming together to make the world a better place."
Някои книги ме правят тъжна. Заради реалистичното представяне на тъмните моменти в живота ни. Заради факта колко сме безпомощни пред лицето на маниакални екстремисти, които могат да превърнат всеки мирен човек в жертва на терористичен акт. Заради това, че понякога късно даваме прошка и късно разбираме, че се вълнуваме от дребни неща. Вместо да използваме всеки момент на тази земя да обичаме и да се заобикаляме с красота.
* " Good people coming together to make the world a better place."
February 25, 2024
2.5 stars, rounded up
I’m sad to rate a book by this author so low. I absolutely LOVED the premise (in which a female dentist overhears a plot while her patient is under the influence of laughing gas) and I couldn’t wait to pick this one up.
I enjoyed it at the start. My only real issue was that Katherine has had a crush on Jonathan for quite a while and he has liked her as well so the reader doesn’t see them get to know each other or fall for each other. I prefer to see the couple get to know each other as the story progresses, so I was let down a bit by that.
Then, I was very upset to read about the sweet little mother owl dying and leaving behind several babies. As an animal lover, I found that difficult to read. I did like to see the way the ladies in the apartment took care of the baby birds, but I was so sad that the mother owl died.
Unfortunately, the aspects I really didn’t like are spoilers, so a spoiler tag this will get.
I was not expecting this to be a book centered around taking down the mafia. I don’t particularly enjoy mafia stories and so that detracted for me quite a bit.
I also really didn’t like the relationship between Jonathan and Sean Gallagher. They have a very contentious relationship at the start (and it’s definitely understandable that Jonathan wouldn’t like him for stealing his fiancée) but Katherine is encouraging them to reconcile and says that they might have more in common than they think they do. However, Sean DIES before they can reconcile and Jonathan thinks to himself something like, he would always regret not reconciling with Sean (not a direct quote but basically the gist). I really didn’t like seeing that in a Christian fiction book. I would have liked to see them come to terms with each other and find forgiveness before death, or some similar hopeful message.
This was one of those books where everything is hunky-dory by page 200 but you know it’s all going to fall apart because there’s still 150 or so pages to go. In this case, Katherine, who has been completely infatuated with Jonathan up to this point, cannot get over the fact that he didn’t tell her about his past and spends quite a few pages being rude to him or giving him the cold shoulder. While I can understand her being upset, he did have his reasons.
I always love that Camden has real people and places mixed in her historical fictions. This one was interesting. The dentist was such an interesting guy. And what a clever way to resolve his lawsuit!
I’m sad I didn’t love this book as much as I thought I would, but I’m definitely going to read the second book in the series.
I’m sad to rate a book by this author so low. I absolutely LOVED the premise (in which a female dentist overhears a plot while her patient is under the influence of laughing gas) and I couldn’t wait to pick this one up.
I enjoyed it at the start. My only real issue was that Katherine has had a crush on Jonathan for quite a while and he has liked her as well so the reader doesn’t see them get to know each other or fall for each other. I prefer to see the couple get to know each other as the story progresses, so I was let down a bit by that.
Then, I was very upset to read about the sweet little mother owl dying and leaving behind several babies. As an animal lover, I found that difficult to read. I did like to see the way the ladies in the apartment took care of the baby birds, but I was so sad that the mother owl died.
Unfortunately, the aspects I really didn’t like are spoilers, so a spoiler tag this will get.
I was not expecting this to be a book centered around taking down the mafia. I don’t particularly enjoy mafia stories and so that detracted for me quite a bit.
I also really didn’t like the relationship between Jonathan and Sean Gallagher. They have a very contentious relationship at the start (and it’s definitely understandable that Jonathan wouldn’t like him for stealing his fiancée) but Katherine is encouraging them to reconcile and says that they might have more in common than they think they do. However, Sean DIES before they can reconcile and Jonathan thinks to himself something like, he would always regret not reconciling with Sean (not a direct quote but basically the gist). I really didn’t like seeing that in a Christian fiction book. I would have liked to see them come to terms with each other and find forgiveness before death, or some similar hopeful message.
This was one of those books where everything is hunky-dory by page 200 but you know it’s all going to fall apart because there’s still 150 or so pages to go. In this case, Katherine, who has been completely infatuated with Jonathan up to this point, cannot get over the fact that he didn’t tell her about his past and spends quite a few pages being rude to him or giving him the cold shoulder. While I can understand her being upset, he did have his reasons.
I always love that Camden has real people and places mixed in her historical fictions. This one was interesting. The dentist was such an interesting guy. And what a clever way to resolve his lawsuit!
I’m sad I didn’t love this book as much as I thought I would, but I’m definitely going to read the second book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2025
I happened to read the second book in this series first, but that ended up being okay. I liked Book 2 better than this one, but this was well worth a read. The only thing I didn't prefer is that it was a little more gritty in its drama/action. I especially loved the redemptive arc of the male lead, Jonathan Birch. (And all his baking!!) Elizabeth Camden's writing, characters, plot, and historical research are always excellent.
February 24, 2024
I really loved this story! I’ve read several books by Elizabeth Camden, and I think this is her best one yet!
It was a fabulous blend of romance, drama, danger and intrigue, with a great eye for historical detail. The writing and pacing were excellent, and I couldn’t put it down.
Katherine and Jonathan were such opposites in temperament and background, but they were so perfect for each other, and I adored both of them.
The faith elements were nice, without being too heavy handed or preachy. I loved the themes of forgiveness and new beginnings.
This is the first book in The Women of Midtown Series. After reading the teaser for the second book, I can’t wait for that one!
If you enjoy historical romance fiction, I highly recommend this delightful story!
Thank you to Bethany House publishers, Austenprose PR, and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this ARC. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are completely my own.
It was a fabulous blend of romance, drama, danger and intrigue, with a great eye for historical detail. The writing and pacing were excellent, and I couldn’t put it down.
Katherine and Jonathan were such opposites in temperament and background, but they were so perfect for each other, and I adored both of them.
The faith elements were nice, without being too heavy handed or preachy. I loved the themes of forgiveness and new beginnings.
This is the first book in The Women of Midtown Series. After reading the teaser for the second book, I can’t wait for that one!
If you enjoy historical romance fiction, I highly recommend this delightful story!
Thank you to Bethany House publishers, Austenprose PR, and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this ARC. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are completely my own.
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