To the Farthest Shores

January 9, 2017
Heartbroken Jenny Bennett, who works as a hospital nurse at the Presidio U.S. Army base in San Francisco, has tried to move on from her relationship with naval officer Ryan Gallagher. Six years after he left her, however, her world is rocked when he returns. Ryan is caught between duty and his past with Jenny; he wants to make amends, but his assignment puts him in a difficult situation. Sworn to secrecy, he can’t explain to Jenny why he abruptly left six years ago or where he went. But as Ryan’s mission progresses, it draws him closer to Jenny, as he realizes he can’t do everything alone. Camden (Until the Dawn) brings a fresh perspective to historical military fiction here with a main character torn between strict rules and the openness he needs to show to finally finish his mission. Ryan, despite his duplicity, is more relatable and believable than Jenny, who at times comes to hyperbolic conclusions from her internal struggles. The book’s mystery subplot creates a nice balance to the romantic elements without overwhelming it. This well-plotted historical fiction will keep readers guessing to the final pages. Agent: Steve Laube, the Steve Laube Agency

Starred review from February 1, 2017
Naval officer Ryan Gallagher broke army nurse Jenny Bennett's heart when he sent her a letter informing her that he accepted a commission overseas and wouldn't be returning to California. Six years later, the Spanish-American War has ended, and Jenny finally has a chance to be relieved of the overnight shift at the Presidio. But to do so, she must work in close quarters with Ryan, who has reappeared unexpectedly. He had planned on staying in Japan as part of the Military Information Division, but first he has to train Finn Breckenridge to take his place at his previous position. Before he can begin, however, he needs Jenny to nurse Finn through treatment for opium addiction. Working closely together stirs up Jenny's feelings for Ryan all over again, but how can she trust a man who promised her forever, then disappeared for years only to return with the child he fathered with another woman? Camden is the master of historical-inspirational romance, and she has delivered another fascinating read with complex, memorable characters and an interesting subplot about the start of the cultured pearl industry.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2017, American Library Association.)