Book Review: Shadows of the White City by Jocelyn Green
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What is this book about?
The one thing Sylvie Townsend wants most is what she feared she was destined never to have–a family of her own. But taking in Polish immigrant Rose Dabrowski to raise and love quells those fears–until seventeen-year-old Rose goes missing at the World’s Fair, and Sylvie’s world unravels.
Brushed off by the authorities, Sylvie turns to her boarder, Kristof Bartok, for help. He is Rose’s violin instructor and the concertmaster for the Columbian Exposition Orchestra, and his language skills are vital to helping Sylvie navigate the immigrant communities where their search leads.
From the glittering architecture of the fair to the dark houses of Chicago’s poorest neighborhoods, they’re taken on a search that points to Rose’s long-lost family. Is Sylvie willing to let the girl go? And as Kristof and Sylvie grow closer, can she reconcile her craving for control with her yearning to belong?
My review:
Having read the first book in this series and gotten to know Sylvie, I was happy to have the focus be on her in this book. This story takes place about twenty years after the first one and Sylvie has matured into a kind and dedicated woman.
Kristoff has been in the background of Sylvie’s life for some time so when we meet him, he is already a friend. He was an excellent hero being loyal, committed, and a gentleman. I loved watching their friendship develop into romantic feelings.
Rose was rather irritating for most of the book, although it made some sense considering her youth. My heart ached for Sylvie in most of their interactions. It was a good thing that Kristoff was around to soothe her bruised heart.
What I enjoyed most about this book:
Every page that Kristoff showed up on.
What I didn’t like about this book:
Rose for most of the story.
Would I recommend this book to others? Yes. The historical details are very interesting and the romance is worth savoring. This is the second book in the series. It can be read as a standalone, but does give Sylvie’s character more depth if you read the first book.
Where can I learn more about this author and their books?
-Loraine Nunley
Shadows of the White City by Jocelyn Green (4 1/2 out of 5 stars) #amreading #BookReview Share on XWant a copy for yourself? Buy one here today.
