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About this item
Highlights
- Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building his very successful global spice empire, but it has come at a cost.
- About the Author: Elizabeth Camden is best known for her historical novels set in gilded-age America featuring clever heroines and richly layered storylines.
- 352 Pages
- Fiction + Literature Genres, Christian
- Series Name: Hope and Glory
Description
About the Book
Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building a successful global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Tasked with gaining access to the private Delacroix plant collection, Smithsonian botanist Annabelle Larkin unwittingly steps into a web of dangerous political intrigue and will be forced to choose between her heart and her loyalty to her country.Book Synopsis
Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building his very successful global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Resolved to salvage his family before it spirals out of control, he returns to his ancestral home to save his brother and sister before it's too late.As a junior botanist for the Smithsonian, Annabelle Larkin has been charged with the impossible task of gaining access to the notoriously private Delacroix plant collection. If she fails, she will be out of a job and the family farm in Kansas will go under. She has no idea that in gaining entrance to the Delacroix world, she will unwittingly step into a web of dangerous political intrigue far beyond her experience.
Unable to deny her attraction to the reclusive business tycoon, Annabelle will be forced to choose between her heart and loyalty to her country. Can Gray and Annabelle find a way through the storm of scandal without destroying the family Gray is fighting to save?
From the Back Cover
Gray Delacroix has dedicated his life to building an acclaimed global spice empire, but it has come at a cost. Resolved to salvage his family before they spiral out of control, he returns to his ancestral home for good after years of traveling the world.As a junior botanist for the Smithsonian, Annabelle Larkin has been charged with the impossible task of gaining access to the notoriously private Delacroix plant collection. If she fails, she will be out of a job and the family farm in Kansas will go under. She has no idea that in gaining entrance to the Delacroix world, she will unwittingly step into a web of dangerous political intrigue far beyond her experience.
Unable to deny her attraction to the reclusive business tycoon, Annabelle will be forced to choose between her heart and loyalty to her country. Can Gray and Annabelle find a way through the storm of scandal without destroying the family Gray is fighting to save?
"Camden launches her Hope and Glory series with this enthralling tale that weds a surprising romance with the real-life political intrigue surrounding the early 20th-century American spice trade. . . . Camden spices up the story with historical details of the era and of the race to provide convenient food for the masses."--Publishers Weekly
"Gray and Annabella are archetypal . . . Their thoughtful arcs see them evolve into surer versions of themselves. The Spice King is an adventuresome, entertaining romance that blends themes of betrayal and forgiveness."--Foreword Reviews
"Librarian and Christy Award winner Camden presents another fabulous love story wrapped around compelling historical events in this unique exploration of early efforts to regulate the food industry."--Booklist
"Gray and Annabelle's early courtship was a complete delight to read. . . . Camden is an expert at weaving absolutely fascinating history into her stories. . . . The prose here is smooth, the plot intriguing, the hero thoroughly lovable, and the mystery absorbing."--All About Romance
About the Author
Elizabeth Camden is best known for her historical novels set in gilded-age America featuring clever heroines and richly layered storylines. Before she was a writer, she was an academic librarian at some of the largest and smallest libraries in America, but her favorite is the continually growing library in her own home. Her novels have won the RITA and Christy Awards and have appeared on the CBA bestsellers list.She lives in Orlando, Florida, with her husband, who graciously tolerates her intimidating stockpile of books. Learn more at www.elizabethcamden.com.Dimensions (Overall): 8.4 Inches (H) x 5.6 Inches (W) x 1.0 Inches (D)
Weight: .7 Pounds
Suggested Age: 22 Years and Up
Number of Pages: 352
Genre: Fiction + Literature Genres
Sub-Genre: Christian
Series Title: Hope and Glory
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Format: Paperback
Author: Elizabeth Camden
Language: English
Street Date: September 3, 2019
TCIN: 77823801
UPC: 9780764232114
Item Number (DPCI): 247-14-9041
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
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Estimated ship dimensions: 1 inches length x 5.6 inches width x 8.4 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.7 pounds
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4.6 out of 5 stars with 9 reviews
100% would recommend
7 recommendations
5 Star Read!
5 out of 5 stars
Blissbooksandjewels - 4 years ago
It has been ages since I last read an Elizabeth Camden book, and coming back to her writing with The Spice King was a treasure I didn’t know I had been missing! Washington DC was the perfect backdrop for this (unexpectedly) educational novel. Having been there once when I was a senior in high school, I was instantly reminded of the patriotism I felt for my country when I visited. I was also able to visualize several of the historical landmarks that would have been present in the early 1900s, and intrigued by the mentions of what would become future landmarks. It was also fascinating to imagine what the sights and sounds would have been like to a blind person (Annabelle’s sister), and the author painted that landscape quite vividly. From the very beginning, I knew that Gray Delacroix would be a hero that I would fall in love with. Just his name – swoon! He’s tough on the outside, but a jewel on the inside. His love and protectiveness of his family knew no bounds. At first, I knew his newfound relationship with Annabelle moved rather swiftly, but I wasn’t prepared for the turn it would take before I even made it halfway through! All I can say, fellow readers, is don’t give up on them – plow ahead! What I didn’t expect from The Spice King was to read a historical lesson on the beginnings of food oversight for America, and how after much worldwide exploration, new foods were brought here for further study. The book also provided some history of the Good Housekeeping magazine, how they fought to bring truth to their readership, and in the author’s note at the end, included some information on how the Good Housekeeping Seal came to be. In the end, I couldn’t believe how much I had learned! The next book in the series promises to be about Caroline’s work in the White House, and I cannot wait to go back to Washington DC for another visit. 5 stars are well deserved for this first book in the Hope and Glory Series!
The Spice of Life
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Tickmenot - 5 years ago
Salt and pepper sum up the spices in most American foods at the turn of the last century. Things like rosemary, cumin, and basil that are a staple today were unheard of one hundred ago. Gray Delacroix has traveled the world to find elusive spices, even though doing it cost a large portion of his life and health. Now ready to enjoy the fruits of his labor, Annabelle Larken wants to convince the curmudgeon Gray to donate his profitable plants to the Smithsonian. In this battle of wills, which one will back down?
Annabelle is desperate because if she fails, she will lose her job. Her salary makes it possible for her blind sister to remain with her. Just when Annabelle might be making headway, she discovers illegal activities by one of Gray’s relatives. Should Annabelle do the right thing, report her discovery, and destroy any association with Gray? Being honest will help the greater good, but it will wreck her personal life, so will she look the other way instead?
This story really builds the tension wondering what she will choose, and I liked the information about spices that was surprisingly interesting. This tale is clean, told from a Christian point of view, and is the first in the Hope and Glory series. Although this 5-star story stands on its own, some questions remain for future installments. It will be enjoyed by fans of historical books with a touch of romance.
Bethany House Publishing has provided bookreadingtic with a complimentary copy of The Spice King, for the purpose of review.
Intriguing Historical Fiction
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Connie Saunders - 6 years ago
This book has everything that you could ask for. A gorgeous man on the cover who proves to be a fascinating character, a sweet, young girl with a strong, independent will, and a storyline that is filled with history, mystery, misunderstandings, and oh, yes, romance! Gray Delacroix has devoted his life to his family business and it has become a success because of his dedication to it. He is also devoted to his younger sister and brother and you just know that he is the real deal. When he meets Annabelle Larkin, he finally finds interest in something besides his work. She is a young farm girl who has left Kansas to work at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC and it becomes apparent that her sunny, positive attitude will seriously intrigue this gentleman.
'Why was he so fascinated with Annabelle Larkin? This sort of attraction was out of character for him, and he couldn't pinpoint how she had captured his attention with such ease.' (p. 53)
The relationship that develops is sweet and very romantic and then, serious issues occur and their romantic interlude comes to an end. What follows is an intense story filled with anger, hurt, disappointment, and the suggestion of treason. It is often doubtful that this story will end 'happily ever after'. Abigail tells Gray that "If I acted wrongly, then I can only pray that God will forgive me. I know I've hurt you, and I am so desperately sorry." (p. 167)
There are several other characters who definitely contribute to this story. Annabelle's parents and her sister show the traits that made our country strong and Gray's brother Luke and his sister Caroline are very multi-faceted characters. It is hinted that Caroline will soon have her own story!
The Spice King is historical fiction and author Elizabeth Camden has once again proven her ability to present historical facts in a manner that leaves us wanting to learn more. In her historical notes at the end of this book, readers learn about the passage of the Pure Food and Drink Act in 1906, the creation of the Good Housekeeping testing facility in 1900, and the beginning of the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval in 1909. Even today, 110 years later, we still depend on that Seal of Approval. And who knew that the vanilla that I love to use in my baking is the second most labor-extensive spice in the world? Thank goodness that imitation vanilla is now so similar to pure vanilla!
This is the first book in the Hope & Glory series and I recommend The Spice King to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and Christian romance. You will want to read this book!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and Bethany House and a positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts
Interesting Nuggets of History
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 6 years ago
I had no idea what to expect as I began reading, but this was a book I thoroughly enjoyed. The many characters were so unique, and I loved all the surprising twists and nuggets of history throughout the book. It took place in 1900, and Gray had been a child during the Civil War. His perception was clearly influenced by abuses his family suffered during that time. The plot and the characters had many layers, which was what made this book so interesting.
International spice trade, food processing, D. C. politics, and agriculture are among the many topics about which readers will be enlightened as they read this book. I recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, Bethany House, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
(no review title)
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Pam K - 6 years ago
Elizabeth Camden's books are always very well written and researched. I always learn so much about our country's history by reading her books. In The Spice King, we learn about the problem of adulterated foods in 1900, the production of vanilla, the search for a heartier strain of wheat, and intrigue in Cuba. Annabelle Larkin is a young woman botanist from Kansas working in Washington DC at the Smithsonian and later at the Department of Agriculture. Her boss wants her to persuade Gray Delacroix to donate his plant collection to the Smithsonian. Gray has traveled the world for the past twenty years importing spices and amassing an extensive plant collection. Though he has no intention of donating plants, he's impressed with Annabelle. As she gets to know Gray, his sister Caroline and brother Luke, Annabelle is pressed by two army generals to find information that puts her in an almost impossible position and threatens her relationship with Gray. I'm glad to know this is the first of a series so we will be able to read more about these characters. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a bit of romance with a strong dose of history.
(no review title)
4 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 6 years ago
This story had me hooked from page one. It was so interesting entering the world where people studied plants and wanted to learn as much as they could about them. This story has so many unique and interesting twists and turns. I like Annabelle and how persistent she was when she wanted something bad enough. She was put in some hard situations in this book where the difference between right and wrong was a blurred line. Camden had me turning pages anxiously awaiting what would happen next. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance. I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Simply delightful historical fiction
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
- 6 years ago
“She embodied laughter and optimism and steadfast determination. Being with her felt like wind in his sails, filling him with buoyant optimism.”
Elizabeth Camden has done it again! What a fascinating story from the beginning to end! This beautifully written and masterfully crafted tale takes us first to 1900 Alexandria, VA as Gray is building his spice trade empire and Annabelle is starting a new life in Washington DC as a botanical specialist in the Smithsonian. As Annabelle and Gray meet while she’s searching for the original vanilla orchid, their lives intertwine to include intrigue, romance, betrayal, and matters of national security. There are plenty of plot twists to keep you on your toes and there is still a smoldering question unanswered by the end of the book, which should make the sequel very interesting. I really enjoyed learning about the spice trade, the intricate process of making vanilla extract, the beginning of quality control in processed food items spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture, and how our scientists went all over the world looking for seeds and fruits to diversify our food supply. The premise and plot are quite original and captivating, as is the storytelling.
Equally captivating are the characters in the story. Gray, the sober and disciplined businessman, and Annabelle, the bright and sunny botanist with an expertise in cereal grasses, are absolute opposites in personality and outlook on life. Yet they’re drawn like magnets to each other and learn what grace, mercy, compassion, and forgiveness really mean through trials and tribulations. Gray’s brother Luke and sister Caroline are also fascinating; I can’t wait for the next book to get to know Caroline better.
Truly this is a historical fiction not to be missed. I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Outstanding Historical Romance!
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Rebecca Maney - 6 years ago
"I hope to the bottom of my soul that I never have to see you again."
Scorching words. Unfortunately for Annabelle Larkin they were understandable, if not deserved, for she had just made an excruciating, possibly unforgivable choice.
Hired as a temporary junior botanist for the Smithsonian, Annabelle and her sister arrive in Washington from Kansas with one mission in mind; to gain full-time employment that would pay Annabelle in valuable agricultural information, and enough monetary funds to save her family's farm. Her bright scientific mind and optimistic bravado did not go unnoticed, and she found herself trekking towards the home of a reclusive global spice king, Gray Delacroix, in search of an elusive orchid.
Gray Delacroix considers himself immune to sunny dispositions, but the lovely botanist is difficult to ignore. Exhausted from his years of travel around the world to build his family's spice empire, Annabelle Larkin tempts Gray to consider settling down to enjoy the fruits of his labor. And then it happens; in the place of dreams, rage ensues. Gray doesn't care how patriotic Annabelle claims to be, she has torn an impenetrable rift down the middle of his heart.
"Choose hope and forgiveness over anger."
What a beautifully written story, paced with accuracy and intensity at all the right times and in all the right places. Not to mention, the incredibly interesting history surrounding the food industry. So, so much to love about this book, written by quite an accomplished writer.
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
(no review title)
2 out of 5 stars
ABookLoversThoughts - 6 years ago
This latest series starter by Elizabeth Camden kept me enchanted. I love how Camden always picks such a unique yet important point of history to set her story around.
I always learn at least 3-5 new vocabulary words from her, but beyond all the rich educational reasons for reading her books are the plot and characters. Pretty much every book by Camden that I’ve read has drawn me in for the sake of the characters and how unique they are. The plots are thick and keep you hooked.
The Spice King met and exceeded all these expectations. The only complaints I have is that I would’ve liked a little more romance to balance out the intrigue and espionage, and the way that salvation was presented towards the end of the book was a massive let-down. A character was said to be paying for his sins by trying to make things right himself, and was said to be well on his way to heaven. I personally believe there is nothing we can do to earn salvation; we must simply believe it and receive it, for Christ has already paid for it and extends it to us. I would rather read a clean book without a message of salvation that one that is so misleading in an attempt to be inclusive. That is why I am dropping what would have been a five star rating so much lower.
Thank you to Bethany House and Net Galley for providing me with an electronic advanced 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.*