Hearts of Steel

Elizabeth Camden has an amazing skill of writing about historical events that are not widely known but incredibly fascinating. Who would have thought that blocks of ice would make such an interesting novel? . This book was written around the time when blooks of ice were the only way to keep items cold and had a significant importance in multiple industries. Hearts of Steel is the perfect combination of romance and history. I don’t normally get emotional reading books. But Hearts of Steel had some scenes that not only made me laugh but also had me teary eyed. It was such an enjoyable read that I hated to see the book and the series end. Hearts of Steel could easily be read as a standalone. However, there is so much to be gained by reading the entire series. While many of the characters are not real, they are people loved from other books in the series. Included is a real life character who cornered the ice industry in 1899. Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction. Elizabeth Camden always succeeds in providing a great read and I would recommend this book along with the rest of the books in the series. It is filled with lessons of integrity , commitment, and so much more. I anticipate Hearts of Steel making my list of favorites for 2023.

What a captivating conclusion to this series! I’ve been looking forward to Liam’s story since Book 1, and it was every bit as mischievous and fun as readers will have come to expect. I love the unique and intricate dive into details about history and the early 1900s working class that Camden brings to each story, and the way she makes the reader feel included in the fight for justice that her characters have undertaken. A note for my Christian Fiction friends, the faith theme in this story is one of a works-based religion, but isn’t predominant and doesn’t detract from the story as a whole. A very enjoyable read, and I look forward to Camden’s next! [I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.]

A riveting novel set at the turn of the 20th century, as Liam Blackstone seeks to uncover the corruption at the elite levels, he risks his health and his heart. Liam Blackstone sets his sights at the top as he fights for fair treatment of blue-collar workers, using his new position and family name to aid in his war. I loved Maggie from the very beginning with her hardworking, penny-pinching ways, passion for her business and family. It was also wonderful to see Patrick at Liam's side through it all. Engaging, with a plot all the more gripping for its ties to real events. I loved how this book brought to life the struggles of hardworking small business owners in the face of big business threatening to strong arm the competition into doing their will. Based on true events, this gripping novel had me cheering for Maggie and Liam all the way through, I loved how history came to life through the everyday people and their courage! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Liam's story was well-worth the wait. Beneath the tough, unschooled, impulsive exterior of a welder lies a tender, loyal heart of a gentleman who only wants acceptance, love, and good for the working class. Liam's tenacity, focused drive, and generosity make him an excellent hero though his flaws are constantly thrown in his face. His journey of finding himself and God is fraught with mishaps but his persistence and determination to overcome these setbacks are truly admirable. I loved getting to the heart of Liam with all of his broken pieces, self-awareness, and thirst for justice. Maggie is a worthy partner for Liam. Her hard-working, devoted, loving spirit matches him in bravery, intelligence, and fortitude. I loved how history of NYC was woven around Maggie's work and how vivid the world of steel and banking industries felt throughout the story. The author truly has a gift for elaborating on little known historical facts to create captivating and stunning historical fiction. It's an absolutely satisfying conclusion to The Blackstone Legacy! I received the book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.