This is the second book in the series. however, you can easily read this as a stand alone and not feel lost.

It was very interesting and Natalia and Dimitri have an very interesting dynamic. I wondered how they could overcome the many obstacles the faced.

Elizabeth did a great job creating the story world and bringing the past to life. She also did a great job with that first kiss, wow!!

Overall, a very good story.

A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Reasons to read this book:
You enjoy unique characters.
You read the first one in the series, ”Carved in Stone” and enjoyed it.
You find history fascinating, especially history that isn’t often found in historical romance novels.
You’ve ever wanted to travel to Russia via imagination and beautiful descriptions.
You like fiction that encourages ponderings beyond simply enjoying a story.
You enjoy romance filled with passion and love, but that leaves unsaid everything but some steamy kisses.

Reasons not to read this book:
You don’t like romance.
History isn’t your thing.
You find beautiful descriptions overblown and tedious.
You don’t care for novels with Christianity within the pages.
You find sometimes pompous counts annoying rather than endearing (I personally found him to be both, in turn).

*My thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book! I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise, and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.

Written on the Wind is yet another fine example of why I love books by Elizabeth Camden. Her characters are fully developed and usually people I would enjoy getting to know. Her stories are woven around sometimes obscure historical facts that enrich my knowledge while also entertaining me.

In Written on the Wind, the primary characters are from totally different parts of the world but have formed a unique friendship through their business communications. Dimitri, a Russian aristocrat, is involved with overseeing the construction of the Trans-Siberian railroad. Natalia is the daughter of a wealthy businessman and is allowed to work in his business against common practice. When all communication with Dimitri stops suddenly, Natalia becomes concerned and takes it upon herself to find him. Thus begins a dangerous adventure that extends across continents as they attempt to reveal the truth without destroying everything.

This wonderful book held my full attention until the very end. I enjoyed every minute of it and look forward to reading more by this talented author.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

My thoughts: this book is the second in a series by one of my favorite historical authors Elizabeth Camden. I love how she writes such unique story plots that completely hold my interest. The setting takes us across the USA and into Russia and one wonders how it will turn out. I had to keep reading to find out what happens to these characters and I cannot wait for about 3:00 in the series which will come out either late this year or early next year. I couldn't put this book down. I was given a copy free and all opinions are my own.

Elizabeth Camden is a master storyteller, and I always love her historical romances. I love knowing that I am reading bits and pieces of actual historical events while enjoying her story.
(this book is one of those books that once you start reading, you will NOT want to stop! I found myself shirking some other duties this morning to get it finished...!!)

This book tells about the Boxer Rebellion, and I have to admit, I knew little to nothing about it before I read Written on the Wind.
I loved getting to know Natalia and her friend Count Dimitri better. Their story, beginning with an overseas, telegram-style relationship, is quite intriguing.
Natalia is a progressive woman for her day. She's had a position at the bank, and it is her life. Or so she thinks.
Then, things begin to unravel...
There are so many things I could say, but I really don't want to give any spoilers.
Just read and don't look at the clock!
This book will have you hanging on for a wild ride.
It is such a well written story, and I can't wait for it's sequel!

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Book two in Elizabeth Camden’s series “The Blackstone Legacy”, Written on the Wind, is now available! This book follows the story of Natalia, a bank owner’s daughter who has her own interests in the political and financial world and her connection to Russian Count Dimitri Sokolov.

One of my favorite things about Camden’s novels is how she weaves in niche historical points into her plots. This book included the Trans-Siberian Railway and its history in conjunction with China’s Boxer Rebellion and the Treaty of Amur, which I found fascinating as I had taken classes on both Russian and Chinese history in college.

The plot itself for me moved slowly, and I didn’t fall in love with the characters or the ways they related to one another, but the historical aspect kept my attention enough to finish the book, and makes me want to study the region’s history even more!

Thank you to Bethany House publishers and Net Galley for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions are my own and were not required to be positive.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion – which I’ve done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

"Another fascinating look at history from Elizabeth Camden, written on the Wind gave some interesting insight into the trans-Siberian railroad and banking at the turn of the century.

I had already fallen in love with Dimitri in the first book of this series from his telegrams. And I was not disappointed once he was introduced more fully. This Russian count was so charming and had a great sense of honor. The choice he made was not easy and cost him greatly.

Natalia found her value in the work she did at her father's bank and yet she earned so little respect, being a woman in a society that assumed women couldn't do a man's work.

I really enjoyed their discussions about literature, especially the proclivity of Russian authors to cause their heroes to die tragic deaths versus the tendency of Americans to provide happy endings. I also loved the way this became an inside joke.

This is such a great story and had characters I loved to love and loved to hate.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction will want to read this wonderful story.


I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own."

I’ve long enjoyed Camden’s novels because of the lush detail and complex characters. Written on the Wind was no exception. This novel combines friends-to-more romance with captivating suspense and international intrigue as Natalia and Dimitri square off against ruthless political figures and vengeful analysts.

The way Natalia and Dimitri challenge each other made for great banter and a perfect pairing. I loved seeing how Natalia and Dimitri both bring something to the table in their relationship, encouraging the other to be better. They don’t pander to one another, and while that leads to many arguments, it also leads to growth in both characters.

The romance was sweet and epic, sure to please the most hopeless of romantics. And Dimitri shows a strong faith that only matures throughout the novel.

Though this is a sequel, I was able to read it and enjoy it as a standalone. However, I may now have a spoiler for the first book when I go back to read it. I don’t think that’ll ruin my enjoyment of the book, though.

Overall, Written on the Wind is a beautifully written romance historical fans will love.

Yes - read it.

Interesting storyline - a bit out of the usual. I liked the play of the cultures, period, locations that it kept my interest. The characters were interesting and kind of refreshing to have (almost) a whiny male lead character.

I received an ARC from Netgalley to help me prepare my honest review.

I enjoyed the mix of American bankers and the Trans-Siberian railway. It was interesting having a Russian main character. The relationship and dynamics between the love interests was fresh and believable. I did feel like some of the story could have had a little more depth, some of the story "problems" needed a little more time for the reader to dwell on them, so that we "feel" them too. overall, this is my first Elizabeth Camden book and I enjoyed it. I really enjoyed the time period. I would definitely read another Elizabeth Camden novel.

I was excited to finally sit down and read this book when it came in! After meeting the Blackstones in Carved in Stone, I knew I wanted to get to know the mysterious Count Dimitri a little more in this book—and I wasn’t disappointed. His love of art and nature is something that resonated with me, and I loved that that played a part in the story. I also loved the way the Russian countryside—harsh and bleak at times, and fruitful and beautiful at others—and the culture flowed through these pages. I don’t know if it’s accurate or not, but it certainly felt accurate, and I loved that part of the story as it developed. The historical side was also a favorite of mine, as always. Camden doesn’t overdo it, but it’s certainly there, and I appreciated it.

As with the first book, I wasn’t so comfortable with the romantic side of the story. One of the characters decided they would wait for the other character to be ready to proceed with the relationship, and then just a few chapters later, their passion had grown so much that they ended up kissing the other person anyway. I found that disturbing, mostly because I would have hoped that with a Christian story, principles of respect and self-sacrifice for the sake of the other person (even if their feelings were running strongly) would have come through more.

That element aside, this was a good book. It’s not the kind of story I’d want to read all the time, but as an occasional reading choice, I enjoyed it. Recommended, if you enjoy peeks into the past with a side of romance. I’m looking forward to reading the conclusion to the series!

I was given a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.

Absolutely loved this second book in the Blackstone Legacy series! Elizabeth Camden has a way of writing such endearing, authentic characters. I adored Dimitri and Natalia. This story takes the reader on an exciting journey through the wilds of Siberia to the glamour and political intrigue of Gilded Age New York City and Washington, D.C. I was immediately pulled in and enjoyed the romance, faith, and history the author deftly weaves into the story.

Count Dimitri Sokolov has been overseeing the building of the Trans-Siberian railway for several years. He’s developed an enjoyable friendship through telegrams with Natalia Blackstone, the American banker’s daughter who manages the investment in the railway. Sokolov witnesses a terrible massacre the truth of which threatens the Russian monarchy. To keep him quiet, he’s stripped of his title and sent to Siberia. His only hope is to escape and try to reach Natalia in New York.

Natalia Blackstone enjoys her position as the lead analyst for her father’s banking empire. The wealthy heiress is anything but typical. She loves her work and looks forward to the flirty, descriptive telegrams from Dimitri. After not hearing from him for months, she becomes worried. When they finally reconnect, the two work together to expose the truth and try to restore Dimitri’s lands and title. There are significant forces working against them to prevent the truth from coming out. Both their reputations and futures are at risk in this delicate political dance.

I loved this story! Pieces of the Russian culture are beautifully portrayed through Dimitri and other characters. The romance between Natalia and Dimitri is explosive. They’re both passionate people and that underlying chemistry heats up especially when their wills collide. There are so many facets to this story and I loved the messages of perseverance, faith, and doing what’s right when faced with insurmountable odds. There were times when I didn’t know if this story would have a happily ever after American ending or a tragic Russian ending. I also enjoyed the various cameos of real people who appeared in the story including Mark Twain.

I not only have the ebook version, but also the audiobook version. The audiobook is fantastic and I thoroughly enjoyed the narrator. My only criticism was that the narrator didn’t employ a noticeable Russian accent. While I liked the way she voiced Dimitri, it would have been fun to have a touch more of his accent.

If you haven’t read an Elizabeth Camden novel before, I highly recommend this book and series! I can’t wait for Liam’s story! While it is part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. Those familiar with Carved in Stone will enjoy seeing Gwen and Patrick again as well as Liam. I received a complimentary copy of this book from LibraryThing through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
4 1/2 out of 5 stars.

I wanted to try this book because I am interested in Russian history. I liked that this story included a lesser known aspect of Russian history.

I liked Natalia. She was hardworking, determined, and goal oriented in a world that did not encourage woman to have dreams outside of family life. I liked how no matter what life threw at her, she looked for a way to move on rather than wallowing in self pity.

I liked how Dimitri stood up for what was right, no matter the personal cost, but for a long time, his attitude infuriated me. He came across as arrogant, demanding things immediately, no matter the inconvenience to others. He didn’t seem to even try to understand any hesitation to assist him in his way and on his time-line. Then when someone suffered the consequences they'd feared, he was surprised, as if he'd thought they'd been exaggerating when they'd told him what would happen. Worst of all was that although he said he loved Natalia, for the longest time he was asking her to give up absolutely everything for him, though he himself did not seem willing to make any sacrifices for her.

I liked that the stakes in this book were high, and I found the ending very satisfying. Though this is the second book in a series and I had not read the first, I had no trouble following the story and feel it works as a stand alone.

Thank you to NetGalley and LibraryThing.

I really enjoyed this story! Natalia and Dimitri felt well developed and complex and the development of their relationship was realistic and believable. The obstacles they went through kept me interested and engaged.

WOW!
This story, set in 1900, was very different. It shares about Russian royalty, political games, and completely different perspectives of the characters; so much going on. I was caught up in the story and swept along as the journey traveled from Russia to America.
I did not read book 1, and I could tell I was missing "a bit" of a back story, but not enough so that I could not follow along. This is a great book and should be moved to the top of your TBR pile 😉.

I received an eVersion for my opinion, shared here without compensation or expectation.

I've been anxiously awaiting this book since finishing the first one in the series. I was completely intrigued by both Natalia and Dimitri's characters in the first book and couldn't wait to get to know them better and find out their stories in this book. But it was even better than I expected! The depth of these characters was fantastic, and even though they went through nearly unbelievable things, I found myself completely believing it all! Their relationship was so swoon-worthy while also feeling very realistic. I loved the way they argued and the way they agreed. I just loved everything about this book. Their spiritual journeys were also very inspiring. And not to be left out were the incredible settings! The author took me on such a journey! I feel like I have actually been to New York City, Siberia, St. Petersburg, and San Francisco at the turn of the century. Breathtaking descriptions on every page! I found this book to be a masterpiece and can't wait for more from Elizabeth Camden!

I received a complimentary electronic copy of this book from NetGalley.

Thank you to NetGalley, Bethany House , and most importantly the author of this marvelous book. The love of Natalia a new Dimitri just holds one’s heart. So reminds me with the background of Russia Dr Zhivago. It should become a movie. As the Trans-Siberian Railway plays a huge part in the story in reality it was. Awesome to reminded to be reminded of all this history! Can’t wait to share this book at our library. Thank you

Written on the Wind by Elizabeth Camden

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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Story Notes

This was a story packed with plenty of history, loss, grief, family, love and the fight for justice. I loved getting to know Dimitri and Natalia and seeing how their lives intersected. They faced many of the same issues but the resolutions played out in different ways. We were given a good look at both home countries and how diplomacy is used to solve problems. The ordeal that Dimitri suffered made him a burning torch for justice but he needed Natalia to temper his fire to ensure those seeking power didn't use his passion to destroy him. The inclusion of books read together was a good connection for readers and I definitely agree that War and Peace is a terrible book from how it turned out though the writing is excellent. I loved all of this story entirely except for Dimitri's fatalistic attitude. That bugged me so much and I just wanted him to cheer up sometimes and not insist on being gloomy like a Russian Eeyore. Otherwise, this book was a delight I had a marvelous time reading it.

I received this temporary complimentary E-book from Bethany House Publisher's via NetGalley. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

Appreciated the historical depth of this one! Camden’s writing of strong heroines continues, and although the plot had some weak points, Natalia and Dmitri’s love story shone.

Natalia Blackstone, part of a powerful banking family, has been assigned the rare (for a woman in 1908 New York) responsibility of overseeing the financing of the massive Russian Trans-Siberian Railroad. In the process, she communicates frequently with Count Dimitri Sokolov. When his telegrams abruptly cease, it’s up to Natalia to unravel the mystery and find the missing Russian aristocrat. Will she sacrifice her precarious foothold in the banking world in the process? What is she really willing to risk for a chance at true love? Find out in this intriguing and historically informative visit to the past.