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 … 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?
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The Spice of Life
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 years 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.
Elizabeth Camden has long been an author I enjoy, but The Spice King marks the first of a family-based series that is well-written, exciting, mysterious, and one for which the next installment cannot come soon enough! She has created a troubled family empire with characters to root for, even when they make some cringe-worthy decisions, and placed them within a setting that is unique yet accessible.
Camden’s characters are three dimensional and often one of the best parts about her books, but she really has outdone herself this time. Gray is complicated and mysterious, mostly because of his desire to work behind the scenes even when he is thrust into the leadership position of both the family and their business. He doesn’t really know how to handle people except in a business setting, which makes him intriguing as he bumbles through a potential romance.
The historical detail is rich and unique; I don’t think I have ever read historical fiction that intersects with Cuban history before, and the tidbits about the food industry were fascinating, despite the thoughts that went through my mind as I wrote that sentence. Yes, even food labels and the issues of fake products in a can, potentially a very dry topic, came alive for me as I read, mostly because of the people involved and their motivations.
Then the tenuous distinction between right and wrong, or maybe even doing the wrong thing for the right reasons, is an overarching dilemma for the majority of the book. What choice do we make when all of the options are bad, or at the very least, too flawed to make them palatable? And once the choice is made, how do we live with the consequences?
Nuanced characters, hints of secrets and espionage from multiple sources, and a well-developed and thought out storyline make this book a winner, and frankly, one of my favorite books of the year. The hero’s ability to make me both swoon and rage right along with Annabelle drew me into the pages as few authors can do consistently, but if Camden is writing it, I’m going to be reading it and I give this novel my highest recommendation.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and publisher but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
No matter what subject matter the author writes on her research is thorough and exquisite. It’s without question! I would have to imagine the author enjoys researching her books as that’s how she writes.
For me what sets her books apart from the pack is the originality of the subject matter!
Yes, there is romance but it’s not the story lead. I love these historical books which I can learn so much from. The cover is stunning and it’s exciting to see the shift from females all the time gracing our covers to a handsome male.
The fascination is real as I learned about food safety, spices and extracts being cut and diluted and becoming impure and being passed off as pure and the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval coming about.
You will absolutely devour this one as you read about a broody and handsome main character whose family is spiraling out of control,dangerous politics,espionage and a woman junior botanist for the Smithsonian.
I absolutely can’t wait for the release of the next book in this attention catching series.
Published September 3rd 2019 by Bethany House Publishers.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
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.
I’m always impressed by the amount of historical detail and circumstances the author weaves into the story that I had never considered, especially at a time when more women are making their way into the workforce. It makes me excited to think about these pioneers and how they contributed to our nation. Washington D.C. is a fascinating setting and I loved seeing the city through the eyes of Annabelle. She is driven with such purpose, whether it be analyzing grain samples or persuading someone to her way of thinking. Gray is more complex, and the pair was an interesting match. I didn’t sense much romantic chemistry between them, but rather a deep respect for the challenge they present each other and the unlikely friendship that blossoms. Secrets and political motivations threaten their relationship, but I admired their integrity as they navigate the obstacles they endure.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
The Spice King is my third Elizabeth Camden novel, and it is officially my favorite! Like usual, Camden is excellent at immersing you in the history surrounding her story and painting a beautiful picture of the setting. I love how the focus of this book is such a rare and unique part of history (food safety), and Camden not only makes it interesting but also memorable.
I loved every character in this book. Annabelle Larkin is a typical strong female lead, and I love her courage and intellect. But I also love her sense of adventure and her ability to find great joy in the small things in life and how much of her heart she gives to others. I always say I have to love the heroine if I’m going to like the book, and Annabelle quickly became a dear friend.
Gray Delacroix is a bit dark and brooding at first meeting. But it was easy to see how Annabelle fell for The Spice King is my third Elizabeth Camden novel, and it is officially my favorite! Like usual, Camden is excellent at immersing you in the history surrounding her story and painting a beautiful picture of the setting. I love how the focus of this book is such a rare and unique part of history (food safety), and Camden not only makes it interesting but also memorable.
I loved every character in this book. Annabelle Larkin is a typical strong female lead, and I love her courage and intellect. But I also love her sense of adventure and her ability to find great joy in the small things in life and how much of her heart she gives to others. I always say I have to love the heroine if I’m going to like the book, and Annabelle quickly became a dear friend.
Gray Delacroix is a bit dark and brooding at first meeting. But it was easy to see how Annabelle fell for him with such ease. Not only is he a true gentleman and classically handsome, but his passion for his family’s spice business and was contagious. (I want to buy all the REAL vanilla.) And the stories about his travels around the world easily gave this homebody wanderlust. Oh, and I can’t forget his devotion to his siblings. Sigh. So, yes, you will swoon over this aptly named Spice King.
There is such depth to the story as Gray and Annabelle’s lives become entangled, and the tension escalates as Annabelle is forced to make heartwrenching choices. The uncertainty and hope scattered through the pages keep you reading chapter after chapter (well after bedtime!).
I can’t think of a single thing I disliked about this book. It was obviously painstakingly crafted. A true labor of love.
Any fan of Christian historical fiction will enjoy this book!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
**4.5 stars**
The title of the book was the first thing that intrigued me. I wanted to know who the spice king was? Did he live in another country? There were so many possibilities.
What I found was a great book set during the McKinley Presidency. This was a time of agricultural upheaval. It appears that food wasn’t regulated and that cheap imitations and fillers could be sold to unsuspecting consumers. I was fascinated with the political intrigue, bribery, and the struggle to change packaging and honesty in the food industry. Of course, that is not what this book is all about. It is about two people from different worlds falling in love. There are outside circumstances that pull them apart and they have to figure out how to forgive and move forward. (I don’t want to spoil anything by giving details.)
I loved the loyalty to family that both Gray and Annabelle exhibit. They both make hard decisions with their families in mind. They were a couple that I was rooting for and hoping that the dilemma could be resolved in the way that I wanted it to be. This story did not disappoint me in any way and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Camden will have readers hanging on every word in The Spice King. The history alone had this reader intrigued, and wanting even more. It is so evident that Camden does her research. She presents information about things we don’t even think about – such as the food industry and the beginning of testing products. She talks about different departments in Washington, the good and the bad. Annabelle and Gray seemed to be on opposite sides of the spectrum as far as allegiance, and yet Camden masterfully brings them together in a way that reels the reader in and doesn’t let them go.
I liked Gray before I even started reading the book. I mean, have you seen the cover! Yes, swoon. In the beginning he did seem like this arrogant businessman that I was not going to enjoy or relate to. But little by little his defenses came down, and you see a man who truly cares for his family, is protective, and finds himself totally blown away with this woman who has put herself in his life. The more the story went on, the more fascinated I became with his character.
The secondary characters were just as enchanting as the main characters. Annabelle’s sister, Elaine was one of my favorites, and while she didn’t get a huge block of time in the book, the time she did have made a profound statement. She is proof that even in historic settings, people with disabilities are truly only limited by themselves. In other words, the sky is the limit, and if you push hard you can live a relatively normal, happy life. Elaine was truly an inspiration.
Historic fans will fawn over this new series by Elizabeth Camden. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book as we read more about Gray’s sister Caroline! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
(You can read my full review at https://justjenniferpurcell.com/?p=1639)
Camden crafts a compelling novel full of political intrigue and romantic tension. By constantly upping the stakes, Camden keeps you turning the pages. I was constantly on edge, waiting to see what would happen next. It wasn’t just the romance, either. Camden has several subplots that grab your attention. From treason to corporate secrets, the novel never has a dull moment.
Elizabeth Camden has done it again!
As always a great storyline that will pull her readers in from the start! She is just that good! Her writing and research that went into making this book! Wow!
I also learned new things about spices especially about how vanilla abstract and how it was made. This is my most favorite along with pumpkin spice and Apple Cinnamon yum!!
And we also learn about the fight that took place for the rights to label the food correctly. Because someone can be allergic to something and it may cause the to get sick or worse!
Annabelle and Gray were two of the delightful characters in the book! As they say, opposites attract? Could be.
I loved the setting for this book from which Annabelle came and ended up at
I liked Annabelle from the start. Her get go and strong personality to get things done. Just wow! Her passion for her work is just wonderful. Just think, if everyone were that passionate about their jobs we just might get some things done!
Gray was pretty passionate about what he has accomplished as well. But he was also stubborn and heard headed. But I imagine he was easy on the eyes too.
This book went by too fast as all of her books do! Now I guess I will just have to wait patiently for the next book
My thanks to Bethany House and Netgalley for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own.
EXCELLENT! I love the history and research that and Camden puts into her writing. I finished the book feeling extra proud to be raised in a farming community. I am also much more aware of the ingredients of the food I’m consuming and serving my family. The characters in this book seem so real to me. But the reality of the basis of this story is absolutely fascinating to me! This is an absolute must read for historical fiction fans!!!
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists,
and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive
reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I loved this story. I loved the romance and the intrigue. Annabelle helps Gray to become a better man before she does something that ruins their budding relationship. Each of the characters in the book all need to learn how to be better people. I loved reading about this time period also. I can’t wait until the next book comes out to find out what happens with all of these characters. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
First of all, I adore how this author creates heroines with jobs that are not the norm in this era. How exciting to read about it and her struggles to make her place. Gray is the perfect brooding hero with a one-track mind! It is so sweet and fulfilling to see how his focus is changed and how Annabelle is a part of that. Details and crazy family dynamics make this a well rounded and page turning story. I also enjoyed the twist of political involvement and danger surrounding that. (don’t want to give anything away!) Second – now I want to use more spices in my food! Not sure the author was going for that, but it was a bonus to the story. Haha!
4.5 Stars
Elizabeth Camden is a master of writing about pieces of history I’ve never given thought to. The Spice King combines several of such including the production of imitation spices, the beginnings of what is now the FDA and labeling food, and even a little about Good Housekeeping (the magazine).
I appreciate that Camden’s heroines are intelligent, strong women who fight for what they believe in. Annabelle Larkin, a college-educated botanist, is no exception. And it is those qualities that captivate Gray Delacroix’s attention.
This historical fiction read is lighter on the romance than I usually prefer (with some high highs and low lows) but the rich descriptions, historical tidbits, intrigue, and wonderful character development made up for it.
I’m already looking forward to the next installment of the Hope and Glory trilogy and what Camden will teach me about next.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
What an interesting concept. I don’t think I ever considered the beginnings of food manipulation and how it was fought. I really enjoyed learning some history in this book. And if nothing else, it made me think more about what goes into my mouth. I loved the passion of the main characters and the secondary. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All views stated here are my own.
With a captivating storyline and colorful, well-drawn characters, Elizabeth Camden starts her new series, Hope & Glory, off with a bang. The striking cover and title captured my interest before I even knew what the story was about. Impeccable historical detail and complex plots are some of Camden’s strengths, and they are evident in The Spice King.
Gray Delacroix and Annabelle Larkin seem to be opposites in many ways, but the chemistry between them is obvious and compelling. I liked Annabelle’s gutsy, optimistic courage and Gray’s love and care for his family. The outstanding cast of secondary characters added to my enjoyment of the story, and Camden’s clear, concise writing is a plus.
Uplifting messages of importance of family, courage, hope, and forgiveness give added dimension and depth to the story. “God had never promised them a life free of sorrow, only the tools to hold and keep them through stormy days.” There is a bit of a cliff-hanger at the end but not enough to detract from the tale. I’m looking forward to Caroline’s story in the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Bethany House/NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This is the first book by this author that I have read. From the blurb I thought it would be a great read but was a little disappointed in it. I found the story about the spices interesting but I found the characters just didn’t seem to work and I struggled to read it. It wasn’t poorly written, it just didn’t suit me and I am sure there are others who will love it. It was also a little out of my time period, I usually read older historical romances. I received this as an ARC and have given it my honest review.
Farm-raised, Kansas native, and Smithsonian botanist Annabelle Larkin is swept into a world of conspiracy, food adulteration, and politics when she meets self-made man Grey Delacroix the head of a sizable spice empire.
Grey has labored for years to build his business, foregoing a college education he travelled across the world collecting the most rare plants and learning how to cultivate them on foreign soil. He is smitten with the young Smithsonian botanist, with the gumption to ask him to donate his plant collection. But the enchantingly cheerful, passionate woman who brings light into his life, is also the one who can bring everything that matters crashing down.
I’ve never met an Elizabeth Camden that I didn’t love, and this one is no exception. Incredibly well written as well as researched, set at the turn of the 20th century, when food impurities were at a dangerous high due to few laws regulating disclosure and safety, this novel introduces the passionate and principled Delacroix family. I love how Ms. Camden brings the politics and advances of bygone eras to life in a way that brings new appreciation for the things that we take for granted everyday.
Grey has worked hard for his success, he has devoted much of his life to his business in order to provide for his younger siblings Luke and Caroline, whom he practically raised. But underneath his intimidating outer layers, he is a man who is deeply loyal to his family and who has the grace and determination to keep growing, and always strive for better whether in his business or personal life. I admired his devotion to his siblings, he always wants the best for them, and there is no distance he would not go for them.
Annabelle brings a bright enthusiasm wherever she goes, she is passionate about learning new things, is devoted to her sister and her country. She always is encouraging others to find joy in the everyday. Despite disappointments, she always tries to look on the bright side, she relies on her faith to hold her fast as she struggles to provide for herself and her sister, as well as to serve her country even if it means betraying a friend.
Luke and Caroline shine as Grey slowly begins to see the man and woman that they have grown up to be in their own rights, each blessed with a double dose of charm. Both are so much more than they appear at a single glance.
Overall, an absolutely thrilling introduction to what is sure to be a fantastic trilogy, I already love Luke and Caroline! Annabelle is faced with many hard choices, as she fights to stay true to her beliefs and her family. I loved the glimpse into life at the turn of the century amidst the buzz of the nation’s capital, I’d never thought that the Agriculture Administration and the history of food adulteration would be so truly fascinating. Annabelle and Grey have captivating chemistry that leaps from the page, most evident in their engagingly clever dialogue and how their personalities complement each other perfectly. Annabelle’s sister Elaine faces her fears and blazes her own trail, not letting her limitations choose for her. A thoroughly riveting read, with heroes who jump from the page, high stakes, faith, and romance. You won’t want to miss it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I love the characters in Elizabeth Camden’s novels because they always have a perfect blend of spirited banter and complex romance. Like her other female characters, this book also has a strong lead female that is intelligent, ambitious, and ahead of her time. Annabelle is fiercely loyal to her family and does not let anything stop her from her goal. However, that does not mean she is perfect and some of her actions have consequences that affect her relationships in very real ways, causing the romantic conflict I have come to enjoy in Elizabeth Camden’s books. This novel also contains a fascinating time of history as well as an interesting peek into the topic of the purity of the food supply, a unique subject at the turn of the century. There was even incorporation of some of the tension of America’s relationship with Cuba. I really enjoyed reading about this part of history. The themes of forgiveness and mercy were integrated seamlessly. I truly enjoyed every part of this story and greatly look forward to the other books in the series!
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers/Elizabeth Camden in exchange for an honest review.
I found The Spice King to be utterly captivating! I absolutely loved the history, details, characters and plot of this novel. The entire book held my attention and as with most Camden novels, I learned so much from reading this book! Elizabeth Camden has a way of imparting information into her stories by using descriptions and characters. There are so many historical facts, but with his novel I never felt I was being flooded with information. It was insightful and well balanced, which had me hanging on every detail of every page!