From this Moment (From This Moment. #1) by Elizabeth Camden

From this Moment (From this Moment, #1)
By: Elizabeth Camden

Published: June, 2016
Published By: Bethany House Publishers
Format Read: ARC. eBook, NetGalley
Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction
Date Read: June 28, 2016

Rating: 3.5/5

I was sent a copy of From this Moment by Elizabeth Camden from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

When Romulus White, his cousin Evelyn and good friend Clyde took over a small scientific magazine years before, he never would have imagined the success it would reach. Now the only thing that could make their publication better would be bringing on board talented illustrator Stella West. When he discovers that she is in town, he jumps at the chance to make her a job offer. Unfortunately Stella isn't in Boston for work or even pleasure. She is working undercover at city hall trying to solve the mystery behind her sisters death. During a time where corruption runs rapid through city hall and the top law-makers, Boston is working to become the first city in the United States with a subway. Having a prominent businessman on her side may just get Stella the answers she is looking for. So she begins illustrating for the magazine in exchange for Romulus's contacts with the local medical examiner and the top attorney in the city. Sparks fly and trouble ensues in Elizabeth Camden's latest historical fiction.

Initial Impression:

I was initially intrigued by the mystery surrounding the death of Stella's sister Gwendolyn. The mention of corruption in city hall had me geared up for some suspense and the high ratings from previous readers added to my expectations.

High Hopes:

Unfortunately I must have set my hopes too high, because I wasn't quite as captivated as I anticipated. It took me quite a while to become immersed in the story and to warm to Stella and Romulus.

Too vain: 

I didn't particularly like the main characters, although I thought that they were perfect for each other. Their vanity and personalities were so well matched and their banter flowed naturally. The humour of their banter was a welcome addition to the story, but at times I found it to take away from the seriousness of the murder investigation.

High Society 

While Camden's writing about high-society was believable, I had trouble suspending my disbelief with Stella's situation. I had a hard time believing that a woman of her class would have been travelling and living unchaperoned like she did during that time period. 

Clyde and Evelyn:

My favourite part was the side-story of the secondary characters; the estranged married couple, Evelyn and Clyde. Despite their own personal troubles, I found them to be much more likeable and I was glad to hear that there is a prequel novella that tells more of their story.

Overall:

My final impression was that From this Moment was a decent story. The time period and its inclusion of the subway construction was interesting. I also found the scientific elements to be well researched by the author.

Final Thoughts: 

Closer to the end my interest began to pick up and I decided on a 3.5 rating. Although I do plan to read the prequel novella, I am undecided if I will read the second instalment for this series. I would recommend From this Moment to fans of Christian historical fiction.