Beyond All Dreams...Review

About the book:
Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across the baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. Thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.

Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen before his promising career was shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglements with members of Congress.

From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Anna's work as map librarian is quiet for the most part, which suits her. But, the occasional call to sit on a congressional meeting or committee frays her nerves and I think I loved her most when she called out Luke's behavior in the middle of a committee meeting. She was strong and spirited and didn't back down from a challenge. Luke, enthralled with the charming librarian, requests her help with some research. She, in turn, requests his help in discovering the true story behind her father's shipwreck and disappearance.

Elizabeth's way with history is compelling. This look at 19th Century American government was fascinating. Politics doesn't change and decisions are still made based on who you know and what secrets you can keep. Seeing it in action, here, as Anna's attempts to find out how and if her father's ship actually disappeared at sea were thwarted time and time again, was both aggravating and riveting.

This was a novel I couldn't put down. I loved Anna and Luke. I found myself frustrated with Luke and his temper, but his history explained it and his efforts to change were appreciated. I was thrilled with the inclusion of Neville as Anna's best friend. His disability and challenges did not limit him and his character was refreshing and a welcome complement to Anna.

How do you go wrong with a book set in a library? The Library of Congress is my favorite building in Washington DC. I adored seeing this historical view of it and how it moved from rooms in the Capitol to its own gorgeous building.

Thanks to Litfuse Publicity for the opportunity to review this book. You can learn more about Elizabeth Camden here. You can see other reviews and tour stops here. You can purchase your own copy here.

Read 2/15

* * * * *
5/5 Stars

Comments

  1. I didn't know there was a job description called map librarian. Live to learn! this sounds an interesting read.

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