Against the Tide

GIVEAWAY

CAMDEN, ELIZABETH
AGAINST THE TIDE

After a childhood rampant with uncertainty, Lydia Pallas has carved out a perfect life for herself. She spends her days within sight of the bustling Boston Harbor, where her skill with languages has landed her an enviable position as a translator for the U.S. Navy.

Lydia's talents bring her to the attention of Alexander Banebridge, a mysterious man in need of a translator. Driven by a campaign to end the opium trade, Bane is coolly analytical and relentless in his quest. He cannot afford to fall for Lydia and must fight the bittersweet love growing between them.

When Bane's enemies gain the upper hand, he is forced to turn to Lydia for help. Determined to prove her worth, Lydia soon discovers that carrying out Bane's mission will test her wits and her courage to the very limits.

My Review:

What a gut-wrenching story! My tummy is still in a twist after my marathon read! Compelling doesn't begin to describe Camden's work. She has a knack for creating very real characters -- flaws and all -- that are easy for a reader to fall in love with. When Lydia hurt, I hurt. When Lydia cried, I cried. I felt like I was underneath her skin and could understand every nuance and reaction in every scene. That emotional pull made even more of an impact because as a reader, I could also see into the heart and mind of the hero, Bane. And what a complex character he is too! A self-made man, much too hard on himself with a grim determination to right the wrongs in his past. He is driven. But then so is Lydia in a different way -- both striving to escape their pasts for different reasons which makes for an interesting parallel.

Camden tackles historical detail with unerring precision. I was riveted by historical facts I wasn't  aware of. Yet another way that women and children were victimized in the 19th century. Appalled, doesn't begin to describe my reactions at times. The author tells an important story that could easily translate into issues and concerns we face in the 21st century.

There are wonderful lighthearted moments as well. Lydia's snappy comebacks and the way she holds her own with Bane always brought a smile to my lips. And his subtle teasing to ruffle her feathers are so much fun. There is a dynamic connection between the two that Camden builds into an unforgettable romance.

A stunning read for historical lovers everywhere.


Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Against the Tide, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday December 9 2012. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!