After losing the love of her life to a big city journalism job, Elissa Tillman pours herself into the suffragette movement and her secretarial work helping keep her father’s Pittsburgh newspaper afloat.Cole Parker returns to the steel city with the phantom failures of his past nipping his heels. All he asks of the future is a second chance with the woman he once spurned.The murder of a … murder of a millionaire offers the perfect chance for Elissa to prove to her father and the world that she’s a serious journalist. But there’s a catch—she has to compete for the story. Against none other than Cole Parker, the very man who shattered her heart.
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Above the Fold
Elissa has been working for her father in his newpaper publishing office for quite some time. She is still hoping to prove herself to her father, but sometimes it doesn’t look like it is going to happen, it is the early 1920’s after. Then her dad hires Cole, the guy that mannaged to break her heart before he left for the big city, and it appears now he may want to steal her dream away from her.
I immediately liked Elissa fun and spunky personality. She didn’t mind speaking her heart, and she gives her all while working at the newspaper. Which was usually not done since this book is set in the early 1920, when women wasn’t really given a voice. I love that Elissa shared hers anyway! I wasn’t so sure about Cole at first, it took him a while to grow on me. He and Elissa shared much history, causing a lot of tension between them for a large part of the story. Adding the fact that being in the 1920’s, the people would favor Cole.
Elissa and Cole are well crafted characters, as well as their supportive characters. I didn’t have any trouble staying interested in the story until its end. I encourage you to check out this debut novel from author Rachel Scott McDaniel.
A copy of this book was given to me by the author or publisher. I am not required to write a positive review. The opinions here in this review are totally mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I always hesitate a bit before requesting a review book from a new-to-me author. What if I don’t like it? I really don’t like leaving negative reviews and sometimes it’s just plain difficult to leave a tactfully positive one if I don’t care for the book. Yet I have added quite a few new favorite authors to my must read list so I usually like to take a chance. Rachel Scott McDaniel is one of those new-to-me authors and I am pleased to say I am writing a genuinely positive review for her new book Above the Fold. I liked it so well that I will definitely be on the lookout for her next novel.
Above the Fold is a romantic mystery set during what is known as the Roaring Twenties. My grandmother was a young woman during that era so it is always fun to read about the times she lived in during her younger years. The story was everything I love in a book. Not only was it romantic but it was witty and suspenseful and blended with a perfect touch of faith. I enjoyed the characters, especially Elissa and Cole who both came to life on the pages of this story. I was impressed by their integrity and their dedication to finding and reporting the truth and the way each of them was willing to lay down their own ambitions for the other.
Details about the newspaper business were interesting as were the descriptions of Pittsburgh during the twenties. I can’t wait to read more from this delightful author.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
How appropriate that this book is set in 1922, as we now enter the “roaring twenties” of the twenty-first century. Comparisons are inevitable, and to my surprise, as I read “Above the Fold”, I realized that while there has been progress, much remains the same. This story seems timeless in some ways because the conflicts and circumstances translate so well, both on a more superficial human level and on a deeper spiritual level. A mark of noteworthy fiction, this detail goes hand-in-hand with being relevant and applicable to readers. Achieving this with historical fiction further raises the standard.
Rachel Scott McDaniel’s “Above the Fold” triumphs remarkably, no small feat for a debut! I certainly never would have guessed that this was a first novel, as it carries the sophistication of an established writer. From character development to plot execution, this story truly shines, and I am delighted that I had the privilege to read and review it. What initially drew me to the story was the fact that it is set in Pittsburgh, as that is not very far from where I live and I recognized most of the street names, as well as the Duquesne incline. The references to it as a steel industry magnate and the ecological concerns therein continue to be issues of debate today, even after the end of the steel era.
McDaniel’s focus on the newspaper industry offers another facet of the Steel City, bringing attention to journalism and the role of women in post-WWI, Prohibition-era America. Through Elissa Tillman, McDaniel highlights the ongoing women’s suffrage movement in the quest for workplace equality. While not a new theme in and of itself, in this story it dovetails with romance and the human condition to reveal how inextricably linked our identity is with the way in which we approach life and impact those around us. Elissa had been known in school as the “Shadyside Slob” because she was not elegant and graceful, and in adulthood, as she strives to earn a place as a newspaperwoman, she laments that “No man took her seriously. Not Father. Not Adam. And definitely not Cole.” So “[w]hich hurt worse, forgotten or betrayed? The only men she’d ever loved had done both.” Perfectionism results from a desperate need to prove herself. Cole, likewise, battles his own inner torments, able to see himself only through the lens of failure. However, a murder investigation serves as a catalyst for metanoia, demonstrating how the Lord uses even bad situations for good and is truly the God of second chances. She realizes, as we all should, that “Her dreams had been elusive like a breath of wind, but her value wasn’t found in triumphs. Or failures. God’s love defined her…God’s love made her enough.”
Highly recommended for anyone interested in 1920s Pittsburgh, journalism and the news business, women’s suffrage, Prohibition, addictions (handled very gently, without graphic details), second chances, and finding one’s identity in Christ.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
I have been eagerly anticipating this debut novel and it exceeded my expectations! It was easy to transport myself to the Roaring Twenties in Pittsburgh with the wonderful descriptions of the setting. The writing flows seamlessly and I had a hard time putting the book down. I liked Elissa’s spunk and loved the banter she and Cole had throughout the book. I always like stories when characters have a past or previous friendship, so it was fun to read their developing relationship. Both Elissa and Cole change and grow in satisfying ways in the story, leading to a wonderful conclusion. There is also murder and mystery in the book with a surprise twist that I did not see coming! The spiritual elements were integrated well. I am so excited to see what else this author can write and I most highly recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Smitten Historical Romance Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I did not realize until I finished this book that it’s a debut novel for this author. If this is her first book, I can’t wait to read more from her.
I love old movies on TCM where the heroine is classy and talented; has a heart for others; and still has a secret love for her old flame that she’s never quite forgotten—but she’ll never let him know it. This book’s main character, Elissa, is all that and more. Cole makes the perfect hero. He’s flawed, but has turned his heart over to God. He’s also never forgotten Elissa, and wants to make things right with her.
The setting in a newsroom is the perfect background for this story. There’s a murder and Elissa and Cole are determined to solve it and get the scoop for their paper. I have to admit that I thought I had solved the murder, but I was completely wrong. I love it when there’s a twist coming in the plot at the end, and that made this great story even better.
If you love Christian historical fiction, DO NOT MISS THIS ONE. It’s that good!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
The story is gritty with just the right amount of nuance from the time period to feel transported back to the 1920’s. The characters are unique and each with their own flaws. I absolutely loved learning about how a newspaper office works. You can hear the tapping on the typewriter as the journalists type up their thoughts. I can see the people gathering around desks with loud voices as they try to get their story finished and off to the editor.
When Elissa was introduced to us, I immediately was drawn in to her strong and sassy character. She has been wanting to prove to her father that she deserves to have a place in the newspaper and is determined to show him how gifted she is. It was a time period where men dominated many professions but time was changing. Women were starting to take a stand and find their way into the workforce where only men were accepted.
Cole has come back to the newspaper after being gone for a few years. There is a past between him and Elissa that the author uses brilliantly to showcase how people can change. Cole has made some poor choices and one of them was how he hurt Elissa. Their banter is funny at times and reminds me of the older movies where the man and woman pretend to dislike one another so they won’t be the first to show how they really feel. There is something to be said for those movies which gave the audience just enough romance to keep the story light and entertaining.
I was shocked at the competition that Elissa’s father comes up with to place Elissa and Cole against each other. This is where the story really starts getting good. The author gives us a mystery to solve that will put the characters in grave danger. Elissa is so determined to win, that she doesn’t think of her safety as she tries to uncover a crime.
The story is a great adventure that has all the makings for a movie. I was very intrigued by the developing relationship between the two main characters. Cole calls Elissa by a pet name that irks her sometimes. When he lets her know the reason behind the name, I melted. The story explores forgiveness that for me was a great lesson in how important it is to let go of the past. The book is one that is faith filled and characters that walk through memories which bring them to a new place where they feel free from the past. I can’t wait to read more from this gifted author.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
This is a fabulous, well-written debut novel! I loved everything about it, from the Christian faith expressed through prayers and actions, to the very real characters, the intriguing mystery, and the historical details of 1922 Pittsburgh. The primary characters are well defined and very likable.
Elissa is the daughter of the publisher of The Review, a newspaper started by her grandfather. She has always wanted to be a reporter, and her goal has been to get her real name, not a masculine alias, “above the fold”, where it could be seen by all. She is a Christian and has a strong belief in the Lord. Elissa is sensitive to how her father doesn’t allow her to pursue her dream, leaving her to take ads, write society columns, and copyedit.
Elissa is at the courthouse waiting to hear a press conference with the DA after a crime boss was convicted of murder. She didn’t see that her father sent anyone to cover it. This could be her chance to prove herself! Until someone ahead of her in a pressroom full of men introduced himself as Cole, from The Review. Not only was she unaware her father hired anyone – but Cole? The man she had been in love with for years, until he left one day and never returned.
Days later, she finally talked with her father and learned the truth. Competition has been fierce and he had taken a loan. If something didn’t change, he would have to sell the newspaper. It would break her heart for her dad’s loss and cost her dream of one day taking over the paper when he retired. One of the reasons for hiring Cole is that he had was a syndicated columnist when in New York City, and having him back could help increase revenue.
Elissa attended the annual gala for the newspaper with Adam, a reporter who has been trying to court her. She didn’t want to get serious about him and she tells him so. On Cole’s way there, he ran into his mentor when a teenager, Daniel Shelby. They had a brief chat before Shelby left for a meeting. A couple things he said seemed odd, and Cole plans to visit Shelby soon. That visit wouldn’t occur, however.
Before the evening was over, news came to the gala that Shelby was dead, killed in the explosion of a building on “Bootlegger Alley”. Had the eccentric inventor begun to deal with stills?
I love the characters! They are described well throughout the course of the book, flaws and all. I deeply appreciate the personal challenges of both. Cole’s challenge was every bit as powerful as Elissa’s. I truly appreciate how well both were written about, as well as the dignity afforded Cole, especially long before there was help or hope. Cole’s mother never even asked why he left his prestigious job, just simply thrilled to have him home.
God’s grace is what it’s all about. It is shown abundantly in this novel. It isn’t preachy and nobody tries to convert anyone. It is a beautifully-written mix of faith, intrigue, risk, and the potential for romance. Plot twists bring about changes to the suspects and even the mystery itself, which is executed as well as those of seasoned authors. While I did guess at one of the facets of the situation, I found several surprises at the end. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who appreciates Christian historical fiction with intrigue and a possible romance!
From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher through CelebrateLit, and this is my honest review.
In Above the Fold, Rachel Scott McDaniel offers readers a complex historical romance novel. At first, the setting and romantic tension between Elissa and Cole were the elements that captivated my interest. But as the story progressed, more layers added on to the story create an intricate blend of mystery, character development, and relational conflicts.
I especially enjoyed Elissa’s character growth in Above the Fold. This novel explores perfectionism versus resting in God’s love and acceptance. Elissa traveled a rough road as she learned that perfectionism is not a healing balm for wounds of the past, nor is success the measure of one’s value. The ending paragraph in which Elissa reflects on being defined by God’s love was absolutely beautiful. One of the loveliest endings I’ve read recently.
Above the Fold is Rachel Scott McDaniel’s debut novel and I’ll give it a solid four stars. I’ll be on the lookout to read more books by this upcoming author.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this ebook. All opinions in this review are my own.
Above the Fold by Rachel Scott McDaniel is a delightful debut novel. After finishing the novel, I had a hard time believing Above the Fold was written by a first-time novelist. It was well-written. I loved how McDaniel made readers feel like she was actually in the 1920’s. She really captured the essence of the era and allowed her characters to swim around in this world. As for the plot, I have read a number of stories during this time period about journalist, but McDaniel added a twist with her mystery, which I enjoyed. The romance was between two people who used to be in a relationship, but life happened, and they went their separate ways. The romance sprinkled and bloomed along with the story. Overall, Above the Fold was a captivating debut novel with plenty of history, romance, and a little mystery to round out the plot. I believe fans of Julie Lessman’s O’Conner’s series might enjoy reading this novel too. I can’t wait to see what McDaniel comes up with next.
I received a complimentary copy of Above the Fold by Rachel Scott McDaniel through the Celebrate Lit Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.
A heartwarming tale of love, redemption, and healing.
I loved the historical setting, as well as the threads of mystery. They complemented the romantic plot perfectly.
As for the characters, I instantly liked Cole, however I have to admit that struggled to like Elissa at first. Later on, I did understand why she did and said certain things, and before long, I found myself rooting for her.
All in all, I really enjoyed Above the Fold and can’t wait to read Rachel McDaniel’s next book!
Recommended for lovers of Historical Christian Fiction (especially the 1920s), and Historical Romance with threads of Mystery.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
‘Scars may be present, but it’s how we view them which makes the difference.’
Wow! What an incredible introduction to this author! This debut novel kept my attention and had me at the edge of my seat. The Roaring Twenties in Pittsburgh was a time of great change even though the soot laden buildings would have belied that fact, at least in the newspaper world. Elissa could see herself running the paper, after all she was the daughter of the owner of The Review, but was that even likely when men ruled the journalism field? Cole was one who had articles above the fold on a regular basis. How could she compete with that?
With intrigue, suspense and some romance thrown in, this novel makes me look forward to whatever comes next from this author. A story of second chances, will they see past their brokenness to realize that God’s love is enough?
The ARC was received through Smitten Historical Romance, Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas and CelebrateLit. The impressions, comments and rating are my own and were in no way solicited.
Perfectionism. Not [good] enough. Such a miserable way to live. But in 1922, the struggle was tenfold for a woman seeking a career.
Elissa Tillman knew that fight. But her spunk and tenacity wouldn’t let her quit.
Cole Parker fought a silent battle of his own. [NO SPOILER] And when they worked together, they uncovered more than headline news.
Ms. McDaniel gives a fantastic debut novel. Her style is charming and engaging, her imagery vivid and colorful. She paints a brilliant picture with her clever turns of phrase.
I did wonder a few times at dialogue or tidbits not in keeping with the era, but not that interfered with the flow of the story.
The friction between Elissa and Cole was palpable, the attraction even more so. Ms. McDaniel balanced just the right tension between the two, keeping the reader guessing—and turning the page. This reader loves a good plot twist, and Ms. McDaniel sure tucked a doozy into her story! Well, done, Ms. McDaniel. Well done!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Above the Fold, Rachel Scott McDaniel, Celebrate Lit
1920’s Pittsburgh really came to life in this sweet romance! The vibrant writing left me feeling like I could see the scenes playing out. I especially enjoyed some of the early moments between Cole and Elissa and, later, Elissa’s realizations about perfectionism and her goals in life. Plus, the plot surprised me. Between the history, romance, intrigue, faith, and lovely writing, Above the Fold has so much to offer! I received a free copy of this story from the author but wasn’t required to write a review. All opinions are my own.
Above the Fold
Above the Fold is a historical book set in 1922. Elissa’s dad owns a newspaper and she likes to write articles for it. In that day and time women didn’t really much chances for real stories. Will Elissa get her chance to write what she really wants?
In Above the Fold Cole comes back after he had broken Elissa heart when he left town. Elissa is involved with someone else but will it last? Cole is hired by Elissa’s father and she is none too happy about it.
One of my favorite characters in the book is Cole’s mother. I loved the story involving her. I would have liked more of his mother in the story toward the end.
The book is very suspenseful and has a good mystery. This book is first novel by the author. I loved Elissa and Cole’s story. Historical’s is my favorite genre. There has to be more research done for this type of genre. I look forward to reading more books from the author.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from JustRead Publicity Tours. This book review is my own opinion.
I was so excited to read the debut book from Rachel Scott McDaniel for many reasons. It is set in one of my favorite cities – Pittsburgh, it is from a time period I have a fascination with – the Roaring 20’s, and the main character works for a newspaper – something that really intrigues me. I had high expectations, and McDaniel delivered. And then some!
First of all, McDaniel did such a wonderful job of writing in the time period. I felt like I was in the midst of the Roaring 20’s myself! It has to be so hard for an author to stray from using current day lingo in their books. I know I would have a problem with it! But McDaniel clearly did her homework on the speech, the workings of a newspaper during that time, Pittsburgh as it was in the 20’s, and the women’s suffrage movement. Even the littlest detail – like the meaning of yellow clothing and flowers. It just blew my mind how much thought and effort McDaniel put into this story.
Now, onto the storyline….and it was a good one! Oh my goodness. Elissa was such a strong character, ready to stand up for what’s right. She had a mark she wanted to make in the world and she really didn’t want others getting in her way. Unfortunately, she was kind of born in the wrong time period for that, but oh did she make her mark anyways. I loved her determination, but also her heart of gold. She had some growing to do – it’s not easy to have someone come back into your life (aka Cole) that you didn’t really want to.
Speaking of Cole, him and Elissa just really made the story. Even though they weren’t this immediate couple, the sparks were flying and I found myself smiling, and even chuckling at times over things that happened with them. Especially when a certain “beau” was in the mix! But Cole, he had some issues he needed to get over. And this murder mystery was just the thing he needed in my opinion. Yes going on the hunt was fun for this reader, but seeing Cole and Elissa grow and just go through life was the highlight for me.
McDaniel is an author to watch for my friends. She has made her own mark on the historical fiction world, and it is a big one. I highly recommend you read this fantastic book! And when you’re done, be sure to add McDaniel to your favorite author list. She belongs there!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Everyone needs to read this book! Rachel Scott McDaniel’s writing pulls the reader right smack dab in the middle of the world of 1920’s newspaper publishing. Above the Fold deals with the issues of the day in a thoughtful, engaging way. Cole Parker (is that a hero’s name or what?) and Elissa Tillman are alive with their own personalities but one doesn’t overshadow the other. There is a fun His Girl Friday feel between Cole and Elissa that really adds to the enjoyment. I read through this book faster than I intended because it is just that good!
I had long anticipated receiving my copy of “Above the Fold” by Rachel Scott McDaniel, and I must say that the wordplay did not disappoint. Set in Pittsburgh during the heyday of the steel industry, and following close on the heels of World War I (ending in 1918), and the end of the suffragette movement (ratified in 1919), Elissa Tillman finds herself diligently working to make her mark in a “man’s world”. As fate would have it, she must compete against her former flame Cole Parker. The story of a lifetime could be present her with the opportunity to be considered a legitimate reporter, but it might also lead to encounters that could rekindle old emotions long thought lost.
Bringing the 1920s to life, Rachael Scott McDaniel combines romance with intrigue with a mild sideline of Women’s Rights activism–and she combines it all beautifully. Great read.
Fabulous debut novel. Well-paced, interesting writing, and a restored romance…love!
Sniffing out the details of a murdered millionaire provided a great setting for attraction to flare and love to blossom in two journalists. I loved the mystery as I followed the competition of Elissa and Cole to get a great story. There were quite a few suspects and I was taken by surprise when the mystery was solved. 4 ½ stars.