Hearts of Steel by Elizabeth Camden is another captivating story by a favorite author of mine. I loved the main characters, Maggie, strong, decisive, and plucky; Liam, generous, determined, and defender of the downtrodden. Both with pasts that have left scars and struggles to overcome. The historical aspect of the “robber barons” of the early 1900s is fascinating and actually, kind of infuriating! The story moves quickly and faith in God is woven throughout reminding the reader that He is involved in our lives and is helping bring guidance and restoration to our lives. Although third in a series, I read this as a stand alone without any difficulty. But now that I’ve finished and realize it’s part of a series, I’ll be going back to read the first two books. Readers who enjoy historical fiction will not want to miss Hearts of Steel. I read a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

The Gilded Age (especially in NYC) has long fascinated me, so I've particularly enjoyed this series and its setting accordingly. Books 1 and 2 were excellent, and this finale is no exception! I learned so much about the time period and goings-on in the city's Financial District (and had to work at not geeking out too hard over that neighborhood, as it's home to Trinity Church Wall Street, of _National Treasure_ fame--and just up from the NYSE, interestingly).

Liam is an endearing hero, and Maggie a spitfire of a heroine. They are well matched, and watching their story unfold was a joy. If only the series could continue; I'm not ready to see the end of the Blackstone family stories!

Being book 3, it's helpful to have read the other two first. Events of those books are referenced here, and several characters make crucial appearances (which is always fun).

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I loved finally getting a Liam’s story. While the third book in the series it could be read alone. I loved the storyline and the idea of everyday people fighting for change. I was really into the story the first little bit of the book but the rest wasn’t able to hold my attention.
I did feel that the character growth was a little lacking. Everything Liam did was to fight Morse instead of helping others, which didn’t feel in line with his character from the earlier books.
I felt things between Maggie and Liam when they got back together just happened; there was no real development.
Overall I enjoyed the book but it took me a full week to read.

Bestselling author Elizabeth Camden continues her historical fiction series set in the 1900s, the Gilded Age of America.

In Hearts of Steel, ice cream company owner Maggie Molinaro gets on the wrong side of a corrupt banker who sets up an ice blockade. It threatens to destroy her dreams and hard work, as well as those of other small business owners in her New York neighborhood. Meanwhile former welder Liam Blackstone, now head of a steel empire, finds himself facing the same villain as Maggie but for different reasons. After they join forces, a romance develops, but will they be able to overcome the treachery facing them? Can they beat the odds that are not in their favor?

Filled with accurate historical details, Camden’s novels are a delight to read. The faith element is minimal but evident, and the storytelling features strong, flawed characters and descriptive narratives. Liam is drawn to the resilient Maggie, determined to help her fight against their common foe, but will it cost him his own dreams? Theirs is a clean romance, appropriate for older teens.

Camden is a master at taking a period of time that is not well-known to readers and crafting an engaging story. In this case, readers learn about the clashing of social classes, small business and big business, corruption, and more. It makes for fascinating reading.

Recommended for school libraries and public libraries. Fans of Camden’s earlier books will look forward to all the books in this series.

Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.

This is my first read by Elizabeth Camden and not my last. I love her writing style. This historical fiction book of the recounting of the evil ways of Charles W. Morse and the fall out that follows him around between the ice shortage, Steele workers union, Wall Street, corruption of the police, and fire departments, justice system, banking system. This man had his fingers in so many pots and touched and attempted to destroy so many lives. The characters are all well developed and intertwine well together. Liam and Maggie’s story is heartwarming and at times heartbreaking to watch unfold. Must read! I was given an advanced reader copy of this book by NetGalley and I am freely leaving review of this very well written book.

I haven't read the first 2 stories in this series but didn't feel I was at a handicap when it came to this third and final one. Camden's voice is excellent and made reading the story an effortless and thoroughly enjoyable experience. She drew me into the life of 1902 New York making me feel I was an active participant. I loved learning what life was like and seeing the disparity between the working class and the rich.

Maggie Molinaro is a tremendous feisty character. I found her very easy to like and was soon rooting for her in her battles against the dastardly Charles Morse. Her goodness and willingness to be the sacrificial lamb were admirable.

I took longer to like Liam Blackstone even though there's an immediate empathy for his situation as a former kidnap victim that denied him spending anytime with his father, Theodore, who by all accounts was a wonderful man. Liam's vengeance was both well written and at times a little hard to handle as a reader. Good on Camden for giving us a protagonist that is so visibly flawed for the entire story. We need more of that.

The David vs Goliath story was also well constructed: Maggie being the 'David' as she seeks to initiate changes in certain industries. I enjoyed reading the rampant corruption that one man (Morse) was able to initiate for his own purposes. Fascinatingly, Camden reveals in her Author Note at the end that Morse and his antics were indeed historical fact and not just her clever authorial creation.

Why only a 4? I struggled with the romantic connection between Maggie and Liam. I didn't believe it. It's not to say such a relationship couldn't happen between two people of a different societal standing but their 'romance' all seemed a bit forced. Friendship, yes, I could believe but the chemistry between them didn't jump off the page for me.

There was much mention of God and again it seemed a little forced. Neither Maggie nor Liam appeared to have any relationship with God. Certainly, we learn at the beginning that Liam didn't have any form of relationship and by the end there was an acceptance of God's hand in various circumstances which I wondered were more authorial observations rather than believable heart-felt acknowledgements.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable read as I so looked forward to picking it up each time. I plan to read the first two in the series in due course.

I was very fortunate to receive an early ebook copy from Bethany House via NetGalley with no expectation of a favourable review.

It took me a little while to get up to speed on the characters of this book. Maggie is driven to succeed. Liam is driven because of his background. They both have the same person coming after them to try to ruin them.

I have read other books by Elizabeth Camden that seemed to be better than this one. Hearts of Steel just seemed a little slow to me. I did enjoy finding out what happens to Liam.

I received this book from Bethany House Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

The setup and time period made this story feel unique and fresh to the genre. There was enough drama to keep the reader engaged, but it was not over-the-top or unrealistic. It can be read as a standalone but I immediately wanted to read books 1 & 2 once I finished.

I loved Liam for all his strengths and faults so I am glad to know he will be featured in the previous two novels. The villain was based on a real-life person and made for such an interesting reading experience.

I would love this as a television show.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the gifted ecopy. All views expressed are my own.

I loved this book! I was not sure what to expect because typically I do not enjoy reading historical fiction and I could see from the cover this fit into that category. But I am so glad I took the chance of reading this! The characters are outstanding. Maggie, Dino, Liam and the dastardly Charles Morse all kept me entertained and turning pages. I could not wait to find out what happened so the suspense and action is definitely stellar. This is one of those books that has characters that seem like real people and that's tough to pull off. I am so impressed with the plot. There were all kinds of twists and turns, suspense and lots of intrigue too. The story felt so realistic I honestly could not tell how things would turn out, just like in real life. I highly recommend this book. I rarely give 5 stars but this book is a 5 star book for me. It is so good I will very likely read it again.

COMPASSIONATE.

First, I know this says it’s the third book in the series but I had zero problems reading this as a standalone!

The plot and setting were one of the best things about this book. I love unique historical dynamics that lead to me learning a lot of times that aren’t heavily discussed. I didn’t think ice (and ice cream) would create such an impactful story, but I love that I stand corrected about that. Filled with a powerful theme of doing the next right thing and showcasing compassion for those around you (and those who deserve it) were some of the highlights.

There’s a sweet romance woven on the sub-side of the major plot. I did like them together and thought that Maggie and Liam had good chemistry. The large gaps between their relationship left some space for the pacing to feel a little off as I had to wait for them to see each and other and communicate again too.

I did love that they worked together and tried to problem solve to the best of their abilities and what would benefit the entire area. I was really fascinated by the villain (who turned out to be based off someone real) and how these kind of business choices affect those who are working the hardest to provide a stable life for themselves.

It was a good read and I happened to listen on audio (and loved the narration!). I would easily be interested in more books by this author.

Overall audience notes:

Christian Historical Romance
Language: a little
Romance: kisses
Violence: medium
Trigger/Content Warnings: extortion, bullying, infidelity (side character), near death experiences, chronic illness (stomach ulcers)

A wonderful conclusion to Camden's latest trilogy resplendent with her Gilded Age details, brilliant canvas of New York, intelligent and resourceful heroines and dishy heroes. One of the smartest writers out there in any genre!

Another Elizabeth Camden book. Another fascinating look into history! Our main character Maggie has fought tooth and nail to work her way from poverty to owning her own ice cream company. She unwittingly offends a corrupt banker and business man and is in jeopardy of losing everything. She meets Liam who he himself has known poverty but now has great wealth and is at war with the same man who is trying to take Maggie down. They have to work together to survive what's coming.

I really liked Maggie and Liam's romance in that they had such a similar history and could understand each other. And each of thier actions drove the story. And themes of trusting, sacrifice, and learning to let go. Impeccable historical detail without being dry or boring. This being New York, it's a melting pot of different nationalities that we're represented well. I enjoyed this book so much. Probably the best of the trilogy.

I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

Everything this author writes is absolutely wonderful, including this incredible series, but this book might be my favorite of the three! You do not need to read the series in order; however, it is nice to get the background on the characters from other books. As is typical of her books, the author does a fantastic job of researching the history and incorporating it so well into the story. I felt like I learned a lot about the time period and working conditions in the early twentieth century. And the villain in this story was a real man, which makes it that much more interesting! I am also always amazed at the unique jobs of characters in this author’s novels and thought Maggie’s position as owner of an ice cream shop to be a creative career. Additionally, I loved how strong and independent and smart Maggie is and really adored the development of her relationship with Liam, of course packed with steamy romance. This book is riveting and engaging and I really enjoyed every part of it. I highly recommend this series and I cannot wait to see what the author comes up with next!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Camden is one of my favorite authors and she has woven a great story in Hearts of Steel. Who would have thought that the early history of ice cream making in factories would be so interesting? The ice cream push carts were very interesting and I loved learning about them. I had never heard of ice cream push carts. Camden has created a strong and determined woman in Maggie, the heroine. The setting is in New York city amid the immigrant-centric neighborhood where Maggie’s family runs an ice cream parlor and factory. They are all conscious of one another and their businesses. All are friends and look out for one another. Camden did her research well for the villain in the book. She wove this story to include a real-life villain. This added danger and intrigue to the story. He was rich and determined to close down the ice cream factory and most all of the businesses by immigrants. Elizabeth's story telling with factual historical events and persons adds much to her writings. All in all a story to hold your interest as you turn pages and also added the romance makes for a delightful book.....I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.

What a finale to the Blackstone Legacy series! I have been waiting for Liam to finally get his story, and it did not disappoint. Maggie is perfect for him and a fun character to boot. I enjoyed how Elizabeth wove this story with a real-life villain. That gave the story an added element of danger and intrigue. Elizabeth's story telling with factual historical elements is always impeccable and makes for fantastic reads. Great read!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher but also purchased my own Audible copy. I was not required to post a positive review.

Hearts of Steel is the fantastic conclusion to the Blackstone Legacy series! I would definitely recommend reading the series in order to get to know the other members of the Blackstone family and learn more of Liam's backstory. Maggie and Liam are characters you can't help but root for, quirks and flaws and all. They work through their challenges in life, business, and relationships with grit and faith.

Major cultural and industrial shifts took place at the turn of the century, and that Gilded Age history comes to life in this story. I love Liam’s heart for justice and his desire to be a good man and honor his father’s legacy. Maggie is just the right blend of sweetness and spunk, caring for those around her even when it means putting herself in jeopardy. This story of courage and of becoming who you are meant to be in Christ is gripping for both the heart and mind. Highly recommended for fans of Roseanna M. White and Amanda Dykes.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

DID NOT ENJOY

Charles W. Morse was a real-life villian.
I found this characterization of him to be quite heavy throughout and overshadowed the main characters, Liam & Maggie, so heavily I could not enjoy the book.

This story features drunkenness, abuse, theft, infidelity, corruption of power, attempted murder, smoking, refers to Liam letting out a string of curses, odd spiritual practice (“My uncle brought the cutting from Italy. Each Easter and Christmas, he cuts a twig from it and carries it to the church to dip it in holy water. Then we take it to the roof of the church, we face the east, and Dino holds the frond up high to send blessings to our family back in Italy.”), very little faith during the first half of the book, then suddenly Catholic practices show up e.g. "He headed to the walk-in freezer room, and Maggie crossed herself and prayed." It felt disingenuous to Liam and Maggie’s characters, almost as if there were 2 authors or editors working on the seperate halves of the book.
With all of this, I could not find the story uplifting as I have come to expect from Bethany House Publications.

I did enjoy learning about the early years of the ice cream business.

All thoughts and opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.


Rating 2 🌟

I have loved everything about this trilogy! The stories of the Blackstone family are riveting, unpredictable in all the best ways, heart-warming, inspiring, and stay with you long after reading them! I have loved getting to know Liam through the first two books and was ecstatic that this book was all about him! And it did not disappoint! This book was so good. And in true Camden fashion, I also learned lots of historical facts I never knew before! Highly recommend!

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

I really enjoyed this book! Learning more about Liam and his life was an adventure. I liked how well he and Maggie balanced each other out. Their character development individually and as a couple was really well done!

This was a very interesting read. The immigrants who came to our country years ago worked themselves to the bone to provide a better life for their children. Getting a glimpse into making ice cream on a large scale was very interesting.
This story brings out the terrible damage rich mongrels had on the poor working class. Monopolies undermine capitalism which makes our country great.
Once again, our childhood experiences do shape our lives. We can grow and make better decisions but some “demons” we fight against for the rest of our lives.