BOOK BY: Elizabeth Camden
Elizabeth Camden’s newest release takes readers to the Five Points of New York City at the turn of the century. There’s plenty of historical detail and little known facts to engage the reader from a time of medical research and advancement.
Patrick O’Neill was destined to be a priest, but ended up practicing law instead. He’s struggling to get by. When his mentor asks him to take a case, it sends Patrick into a world of banking and steel magnates and long kept secrets.
Gwendolyn Kellerman could care less about her family’s fortune. But when that fortune is the only thing keeping her beloved research college running, she’s quick to do her family’s bidding.
The story started out slowly for me, and it took a while to get into it. But once Gwen’s family mystery came out, I was pulled in. It’s an intriguing story, if not a bit predictable for avid readers, but it’s still enjoyable.
The cast of characters are varied and colourful, adding an interesting dynamic to the plot.
One thing that caught me by surprise was Patrick’s recitation of Hail Mary’s and his constant use of the rosary. His character is one that is strong in his Catholic faith, and the author does a great job showing this (I’m used to reading about the protestant faith).
The most interesting part for me was the research being done on Tetanus. I would have liked to have read more about the research Gwen’s team was doing since there appeared to be a buildup to the work the college was doing.
Though the ending felt a bit rushed, it tied up the story nicely.
I received an ecopy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.