cover image To the Farthest Shores

To the Farthest Shores

Elizabeth Camden. Bethany House, $15.99 trade paper (352p) ISBN 978-0-7642-1880-4

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 (Mar.)