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Until The Dawn #0.5
Toward the Sunrise
Julia Broeder is only six months shy of graduating from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania when one small decision spirals out of control and results in her expulsion. Hoping to travel the world as a missionary doctor, her only choice is to return back home...or throw herself upon the mercy of Ashton Carlyle.
Formal and straight-laced, Ashton Carlyle is not pleased to see an expelled Julia arrive at his Manhattan office. His position as a junior attorney for the Vandermark family's world-famous shipping empire entails taking care of the Broeders, longtime employees of the Vandermark family. But Ashton has no intention now of using his employer's resources in defense of Julia's impulsive and reckless actions.
What Ashton did not expect was a scathing reprimand from none other than the Vandermark family patriarch or the bewildering resistance from Julia herself when he's forced to change his tune. At an impasse, Ashton and Julia never anticipated the revelations that arise or the adventure that awaits them.
In this novella, award-winning novelist Elizabeth Camden introduces readers to the world of the grand Hudson River Valley estate Dierenpark and the enigmatic Vandermark family. Includes an extended preview of Until the Dawn, Camden's full-length Dierenpark novel.
Formal and straight-laced, Ashton Carlyle is not pleased to see an expelled Julia arrive at his Manhattan office. His position as a junior attorney for the Vandermark family's world-famous shipping empire entails taking care of the Broeders, longtime employees of the Vandermark family. But Ashton has no intention now of using his employer's resources in defense of Julia's impulsive and reckless actions.
What Ashton did not expect was a scathing reprimand from none other than the Vandermark family patriarch or the bewildering resistance from Julia herself when he's forced to change his tune. At an impasse, Ashton and Julia never anticipated the revelations that arise or the adventure that awaits them.
In this novella, award-winning novelist Elizabeth Camden introduces readers to the world of the grand Hudson River Valley estate Dierenpark and the enigmatic Vandermark family. Includes an extended preview of Until the Dawn, Camden's full-length Dierenpark novel.
131 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2015
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July 31, 2019
..
In this novella, award-winning novelist Elizabeth Camden introduces readers to the world of the grand Hudson River Valley estate Dierenpark and the enigmatic Vandermark family.
Julia Broeder is only six months shy of graduating from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania when one small decision spirals out of control and results in her expulsion. Hoping to travel the world as a missionary doctor, her only choice is to return back home . . . or throw herself upon the mercy of Ashton Carlyle.
This prequel was packed full of entertainment based on hope, faith, and determination.
The author introduces the reader into this historical adventure filled with mystery, intrigue, and a touch of romance as well. The descriptions are phenomenal, allowing the reader to almost see, touch, and smell the magic on the property at Dierenpark. And the goats were definitely a hoot!
Formal and straight-laced, Ashton is not pleased to see an expelled Julia arrive at his Manhattan office. His position as an attorney for the Vandermark family's world-famous shipping empire entails taking care of the Broeders, longtime employees of the Vandermarks. But Ashton has no intention of using his employer's resources in defense of Julia's impulsive and reckless actions.
What Ashton does not expect is a scathing reprimand from none other than the Vandermark family patriarch and the bewildering resistance from Julia herself when he's forced to change his tune. At an impasse, Ashton and Julia are unprepared for the revelations that arise or the adventure that awaits them.
The humor was welcome, even though the plot and characters were as not fully developed as I had hoped they would be. I hope that other readers enjoy this clean and wholesome tale where dreams do come true!
.
In this novella, award-winning novelist Elizabeth Camden introduces readers to the world of the grand Hudson River Valley estate Dierenpark and the enigmatic Vandermark family.
Julia Broeder is only six months shy of graduating from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania when one small decision spirals out of control and results in her expulsion. Hoping to travel the world as a missionary doctor, her only choice is to return back home . . . or throw herself upon the mercy of Ashton Carlyle.
This prequel was packed full of entertainment based on hope, faith, and determination.
The author introduces the reader into this historical adventure filled with mystery, intrigue, and a touch of romance as well. The descriptions are phenomenal, allowing the reader to almost see, touch, and smell the magic on the property at Dierenpark. And the goats were definitely a hoot!
Formal and straight-laced, Ashton is not pleased to see an expelled Julia arrive at his Manhattan office. His position as an attorney for the Vandermark family's world-famous shipping empire entails taking care of the Broeders, longtime employees of the Vandermarks. But Ashton has no intention of using his employer's resources in defense of Julia's impulsive and reckless actions.
What Ashton does not expect is a scathing reprimand from none other than the Vandermark family patriarch and the bewildering resistance from Julia herself when he's forced to change his tune. At an impasse, Ashton and Julia are unprepared for the revelations that arise or the adventure that awaits them.
The humor was welcome, even though the plot and characters were as not fully developed as I had hoped they would be. I hope that other readers enjoy this clean and wholesome tale where dreams do come true!
.
March 16, 2016
{{This is a Goodreads Only Review! Meaning, this review will not be posted on 'Books for Christian Girls'. }}
About this book:
“Julia Broeder is only six months shy of graduating from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania when one small decision spirals out of control and results in her expulsion. Hoping to travel the world as a missionary doctor, her only choice is to return back home...or throw herself upon the mercy of Ashton Carlyle.
Formal and straight-laced, Ashton Carlyle is not pleased to see an expelled Julia arrive at his Manhattan office. His position as a junior attorney for the Vandermark family's world-famous shipping empire entails taking care of the Broeders, longtime employees of the Vandermark family. But Ashton has no intention now of using his employer's resources in defense of Julia's impulsive and reckless actions.
What Ashton did not expect was a scathing reprimand from none other than the Vandermark family patriarch or the bewildering resistance from Julia herself when he's forced to change his tune. At an impasse, Ashton and Julia never anticipated the revelations that arise or the adventure that awaits them.”
Series: Considered Book #.5 and connected to the author’s new book, “Until the Dawn”.
Spiritual Content- Mentions of prayers; A mention of a strong foundation of faith; Julie would be says she’d be useless being a missionary to teach the Bible, but being a medical missionary her life would be an example of Christian charity.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘screwed up’ and a ‘stupid’; Helping a dog who is horribly mangled (border-line semi-detailed // detailed); Mentions of dog fights; Mentions of a dead body (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of autopsies; A mention of seppuku and cutting open a belly; A mention of tobacco; A couple mentions of champagne.
Sexual Content- a cheek kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, two semi-detailed kisses; Touches & Embraces (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing; Love, falling in love & the emotions.
*Note: Many Mentions of goats giving birth (up to border-line semi-detailed // detailed).
-Julia Broeder
-Ashton Carlyle
P.O.V. switches between them.
Set in 1897-1898
131(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Wow! I don't think I've ever read a novella and wished it was a full length book. Ever. This was quite excellent, mostly #becauseChina . And hello? Y’all know my heart for China. I honesty would love this novella in paperback, I really would. The dog part grabbed at my heart strings in the beginning, so very sensitive dog lovers might have a hard time with those parts. I just loved all the references and mentions of China or the Far East. More Spiritual Content would have been really nice, though.
View reviews like this one Here:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
About this book:
“Julia Broeder is only six months shy of graduating from the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania when one small decision spirals out of control and results in her expulsion. Hoping to travel the world as a missionary doctor, her only choice is to return back home...or throw herself upon the mercy of Ashton Carlyle.
Formal and straight-laced, Ashton Carlyle is not pleased to see an expelled Julia arrive at his Manhattan office. His position as a junior attorney for the Vandermark family's world-famous shipping empire entails taking care of the Broeders, longtime employees of the Vandermark family. But Ashton has no intention now of using his employer's resources in defense of Julia's impulsive and reckless actions.
What Ashton did not expect was a scathing reprimand from none other than the Vandermark family patriarch or the bewildering resistance from Julia herself when he's forced to change his tune. At an impasse, Ashton and Julia never anticipated the revelations that arise or the adventure that awaits them.”
Series: Considered Book #.5 and connected to the author’s new book, “Until the Dawn”.
Spiritual Content- Mentions of prayers; A mention of a strong foundation of faith; Julie would be says she’d be useless being a missionary to teach the Bible, but being a medical missionary her life would be an example of Christian charity.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘screwed up’ and a ‘stupid’; Helping a dog who is horribly mangled (border-line semi-detailed // detailed); Mentions of dog fights; Mentions of a dead body (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of autopsies; A mention of seppuku and cutting open a belly; A mention of tobacco; A couple mentions of champagne.
Sexual Content- a cheek kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, two semi-detailed kisses; Touches & Embraces (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing; Love, falling in love & the emotions.
*Note: Many Mentions of goats giving birth (up to border-line semi-detailed // detailed).
-Julia Broeder
-Ashton Carlyle
P.O.V. switches between them.
Set in 1897-1898
131(-ish) pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Wow! I don't think I've ever read a novella and wished it was a full length book. Ever. This was quite excellent, mostly #becauseChina . And hello? Y’all know my heart for China. I honesty would love this novella in paperback, I really would. The dog part grabbed at my heart strings in the beginning, so very sensitive dog lovers might have a hard time with those parts. I just loved all the references and mentions of China or the Far East. More Spiritual Content would have been really nice, though.
View reviews like this one Here:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
September 15, 2018
This author might not be for me. This is the second of her books I’ve tried, and both have failed to meet my reading standards.
While I think Julia’s passion for injured creatures is admirable, I found her perspective on stealing someone’s dog and giving it away to someone else repulsive. She did not work for a rescue group of any sort, so “saving the dog” is too much of a stretch for her actions. She committed a crime and never once felt sorry for it or saw it as wrong or a sin.
The idea for this story was cute, but the happenings mentioned above took place in chapter one and prevented me from connecting well with this book, even when the events shifted to more mature and right behaviors.
I haven’t completely given up on this author. I’ve got another one or two books of hers, and I will give them an honest and open-minded look at some point.
While I think Julia’s passion for injured creatures is admirable, I found her perspective on stealing someone’s dog and giving it away to someone else repulsive. She did not work for a rescue group of any sort, so “saving the dog” is too much of a stretch for her actions. She committed a crime and never once felt sorry for it or saw it as wrong or a sin.
The idea for this story was cute, but the happenings mentioned above took place in chapter one and prevented me from connecting well with this book, even when the events shifted to more mature and right behaviors.
I haven’t completely given up on this author. I’ve got another one or two books of hers, and I will give them an honest and open-minded look at some point.
July 25, 2022
4 stars & 4/10 hearts. This was my first Camden book, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’d heard glowing reviews, but I was unsure if the books would be my cuppa tea. Well, I ended up quite pleasantly surprised.
The writing style, although not old-fashioned as befits the setting, was still enjoyable. I enjoyed how the author actually made NYC sound like an appealing place… I never thought I’d be interested in the state of NY but now I somewhat am.
The characters were nice. I really liked Ashton and how deep a character he was, so different in different settings. I loved his love for his family (what a great father he had!), his passion for the Orient, his dedication and hard work and loyalty—I related to him a lot. Julia I wasn’t so fond of. The woman was a little too impulsive and a little too brash, and she also committed a literal crime and not only got away with it but didn’t understand the fuss about it. On the other hand, I liked how willing she was to work, and I did relate a little to her sometimes. The Vandermarks were interesting too… and so was Sophie.
The plot kept my interest. I was mildly surprised by the romance… I had been expecting an entirely different one, but plainly that’s on me for not reading the synopsis as usual. I found the goat part very interesting, since I have friends with a goat farm—that was a unique addition and well done. I particularly liked was the oriental theme, the map, Ashton’s decor… it just really “vibed” with me somehow. But I enjoyed the storyline and the message of pursing what you love with courage instead of hiding from potential obstacles.
Overall, it was an interesting read and I look forwards to reading more of Camden’s works.
Content: kissing mentioned.
A Favourite Quote: “This is your first test,” he said with quiet conviction. “Given the path you have chosen, there are going to be more, and it’s going to be hard. There are going to be times when you will feel worn out, ground down, and you may begin to doubt yourself, but I have never seen someone run toward a dream with as much passion as you. Don’t give up now, Julia. You’ve chosen a steep and daring path, and no matter how hard, how grueling, how intimidating . . . you are going to change the world wherever you go. You will leave a path behind you of people who have been healed and inspired because you came into their lives. Don’t give up now.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: He would never see the great sights of Asia, but Julia would, and if he could catch a glimpse of the faraway, wide, wondrous world through her eyes, it would be enough.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Are you sure I can’t help with weaning the kids?” she asked Mr. Hofstad. Surely that would require a lot of work, and she wouldn’t mind lingering in the village a few more weeks….
Ashton peered at her through knowing eyes. “Perhaps you’d like to offer to paint his barn? Build a new pen? Help with the spring planting? If you play your cards right, you might even still be here for the birthing next November.”
The writing style, although not old-fashioned as befits the setting, was still enjoyable. I enjoyed how the author actually made NYC sound like an appealing place… I never thought I’d be interested in the state of NY but now I somewhat am.
The characters were nice. I really liked Ashton and how deep a character he was, so different in different settings. I loved his love for his family (what a great father he had!), his passion for the Orient, his dedication and hard work and loyalty—I related to him a lot. Julia I wasn’t so fond of. The woman was a little too impulsive and a little too brash, and she also committed a literal crime and not only got away with it but didn’t understand the fuss about it. On the other hand, I liked how willing she was to work, and I did relate a little to her sometimes. The Vandermarks were interesting too… and so was Sophie.
The plot kept my interest. I was mildly surprised by the romance… I had been expecting an entirely different one, but plainly that’s on me for not reading the synopsis as usual. I found the goat part very interesting, since I have friends with a goat farm—that was a unique addition and well done. I particularly liked was the oriental theme, the map, Ashton’s decor… it just really “vibed” with me somehow. But I enjoyed the storyline and the message of pursing what you love with courage instead of hiding from potential obstacles.
Overall, it was an interesting read and I look forwards to reading more of Camden’s works.
Content: kissing mentioned.
A Favourite Quote: “This is your first test,” he said with quiet conviction. “Given the path you have chosen, there are going to be more, and it’s going to be hard. There are going to be times when you will feel worn out, ground down, and you may begin to doubt yourself, but I have never seen someone run toward a dream with as much passion as you. Don’t give up now, Julia. You’ve chosen a steep and daring path, and no matter how hard, how grueling, how intimidating . . . you are going to change the world wherever you go. You will leave a path behind you of people who have been healed and inspired because you came into their lives. Don’t give up now.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: He would never see the great sights of Asia, but Julia would, and if he could catch a glimpse of the faraway, wide, wondrous world through her eyes, it would be enough.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Are you sure I can’t help with weaning the kids?” she asked Mr. Hofstad. Surely that would require a lot of work, and she wouldn’t mind lingering in the village a few more weeks….
Ashton peered at her through knowing eyes. “Perhaps you’d like to offer to paint his barn? Build a new pen? Help with the spring planting? If you play your cards right, you might even still be here for the birthing next November.”
December 17, 2015
I decided to read this before starting in on the book. It's a great little novella, with just enough teaser with the novel's characters to make me ready to run home, grab my copy of "Until the Dawn", and dive right in.
I loved both main characters and thought Ashton's father was a dear fellow. And the proposal was so good! I look forward to reading more of Sophie's weather station and what happens when Dierenpark's owners find out about it!
If you haven't read Camden's writing before, this is a good way to sample it. You're in for a great treat with this author's vivid characters and historical detail.
I loved both main characters and thought Ashton's father was a dear fellow. And the proposal was so good! I look forward to reading more of Sophie's weather station and what happens when Dierenpark's owners find out about it!
If you haven't read Camden's writing before, this is a good way to sample it. You're in for a great treat with this author's vivid characters and historical detail.
November 22, 2015
I'm not a fan of novellas, but picked up this one free as a lead in to Until the Dawn. It was a nice stage setting for the full length novel coming in December.
June 23, 2017
Book #0.5, in Until the Down series
I am not a huge fan of novellas but I will make exception here. It was just enough of a teaser to see the author style and enjoy her introduction to the series and her characters. By omitting the fluff that no one really cares about, the author has managed to propel an excellent storyline within 100 pages or so.
This page- turner for some but maybe not for others brings us to the end of the 19th century in Hudson River Valley and is a good start to the Until Dawn series. Although I wish “Toward the Sunrise” would have been a novel instead. The story offers an intriguing peek in the life of residents of the abandoned Vandermark historic estate. Julia Broeder is the main character she dreams becoming a medical missionary and with the help of Aston Carlyle she will achieve her dream ……and more. The plot is vivid, complex and is well paced. Considering the shortness of this novel the characterisation is quite enjoyable although missing substance. (Unfortunately, there is no time for development in a novella).
This is a sweet historical romance novella I enjoyed quite a bit. Maybe I was just in the right mood for this type of book……
I am not a huge fan of novellas but I will make exception here. It was just enough of a teaser to see the author style and enjoy her introduction to the series and her characters. By omitting the fluff that no one really cares about, the author has managed to propel an excellent storyline within 100 pages or so.
This page- turner for some but maybe not for others brings us to the end of the 19th century in Hudson River Valley and is a good start to the Until Dawn series. Although I wish “Toward the Sunrise” would have been a novel instead. The story offers an intriguing peek in the life of residents of the abandoned Vandermark historic estate. Julia Broeder is the main character she dreams becoming a medical missionary and with the help of Aston Carlyle she will achieve her dream ……and more. The plot is vivid, complex and is well paced. Considering the shortness of this novel the characterisation is quite enjoyable although missing substance. (Unfortunately, there is no time for development in a novella).
This is a sweet historical romance novella I enjoyed quite a bit. Maybe I was just in the right mood for this type of book……
June 20, 2017
I'm not big on Novellas. They bug me. You're supposed to pack a whole book into a hundred pages or less? Well this one was 131 pages, so it was, like, half the pages of a regular book, but with lots of content! Really good story without a lot of fluff that few people really care about, like birds flitting among the elm trees, or the red hue of the flowering arbutus along the path...stuff I always skip. After all...doesn't everyone toss the garnish off the dinner plate anyway?
This "book" is a prequel, to the next full book Until the Dawn. The main characters in this novella are only briefly mentioned in the book one. This, however, introduces the reader to a mansion called Dierenpark in New Holland, on the Hudson River. Characters include the groundskeeper, housekeeper, and a young lady named Sophie who does some cooking there and something else (which you find more about in Until the Dawn. But this novella is greatly about Julie and Ashton. Although they get off to a rocky start, you just know something will happen...and happen it does!
Here's where there are some spoilers, so if you don't want the story given away to some degree, you can skip it...
The rest of the story is about goats, getting to know each other, and getting her back to college. Oh, and of course, their budding romance.
Ms Camden is such a good writer, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
This "book" is a prequel, to the next full book Until the Dawn. The main characters in this novella are only briefly mentioned in the book one. This, however, introduces the reader to a mansion called Dierenpark in New Holland, on the Hudson River. Characters include the groundskeeper, housekeeper, and a young lady named Sophie who does some cooking there and something else (which you find more about in Until the Dawn. But this novella is greatly about Julie and Ashton. Although they get off to a rocky start, you just know something will happen...and happen it does!
Here's where there are some spoilers, so if you don't want the story given away to some degree, you can skip it...
The rest of the story is about goats, getting to know each other, and getting her back to college. Oh, and of course, their budding romance.
Ms Camden is such a good writer, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
April 18, 2018
I read “Until the Dawn” when it released a few years ago, but hadn’t found time to read the prequel novella until now. It would definitely work better to be introduced to Sophie in this novella before reading “Until the Dawn,” and Camden does a fine job with setting up the stage and presenting questions that her novel answers. At the same time, I do believe that this could be read as a stand alone.
It was a sweet story and did not take too long to read. If you prefer not to read about goats birthing, it may not be your choice (I was raised owning goats, so it brought back memories for me).
The romance didn’t seem too quick to be realistic, though the turning point did seem to happen suddenly and I was like, “Wait... they’re kissing already?” And yes, quite a few kisses for a guy and girl who “weren’t going to get married” because life circumstances wouldn’t work out (something I personally have an issue with... don’t just go kissing a guy you have an infatuation with, but anyway...).
As I seem to remember from Camden’s other book I had read, the Christian theme really wasn’t strong. I think God was mentioned once or twice, and though Julia desired to become a “medical missionary,” it was because she wanted to see the world and feel good about doing good works. In my viewpoint, the Christian theme was pretty much nonexistent.
It was clean, though, and I don’t remember any coarse comments or references.
It was a sweet story and did not take too long to read. If you prefer not to read about goats birthing, it may not be your choice (I was raised owning goats, so it brought back memories for me).
The romance didn’t seem too quick to be realistic, though the turning point did seem to happen suddenly and I was like, “Wait... they’re kissing already?” And yes, quite a few kisses for a guy and girl who “weren’t going to get married” because life circumstances wouldn’t work out (something I personally have an issue with... don’t just go kissing a guy you have an infatuation with, but anyway...).
As I seem to remember from Camden’s other book I had read, the Christian theme really wasn’t strong. I think God was mentioned once or twice, and though Julia desired to become a “medical missionary,” it was because she wanted to see the world and feel good about doing good works. In my viewpoint, the Christian theme was pretty much nonexistent.
It was clean, though, and I don’t remember any coarse comments or references.
June 11, 2016
Great writing, loved the hero, but the whole thing felt rushed to me, since it's a novella. Also, Julia kind of drove me crazy with how flippant she was being about getting back into school - it's only the opportunity of lifetime, no big deal, haha! It's not really necessary to read it in order to read Until the Dawn, but I still enjoyed it.
October 29, 2015
A little confusing at times, but still a good story. I'm curious about Sophie and what's going to happen in her story, so I might read the next book. :)
December 29, 2017
This one is really a 3.5 in that I had a believability problem with the heroine's character arc, but loved the hero and of course the writing was excellent.
September 10, 2019
Well, that was cute. The goats were a unique twist. XD
June 16, 2020
You can find this review in English below.
Interesante romance histórico, muy cortito y dulce. No hay mucho sitio para desarrollar ni la historia ni los personajes pero consigue enganchar. Y además se sale de lo habitual. La trama es original. Hubiese sido estupendo si hubiese sido más larga.
No duques ni ningún otro tipo de noble, ni quinceañeras lloronas con ganas de casarse con un título. Si eso no es refrescante…
Por cierto, este no es un romance cristiano.
***
Interesting and short and sweet historical romance. There is no much room for proper character and plot development but it´s engaging enough. And it´s different too. The plot is original. It would have been great if it was a full novel.
No dukes nor any titled rakes here. Neither whimpering teens who want to marry a title.
If that is not refreshing…
By the way, it is not a Christian romance.
Interesante romance histórico, muy cortito y dulce. No hay mucho sitio para desarrollar ni la historia ni los personajes pero consigue enganchar. Y además se sale de lo habitual. La trama es original. Hubiese sido estupendo si hubiese sido más larga.
No duques ni ningún otro tipo de noble, ni quinceañeras lloronas con ganas de casarse con un título. Si eso no es refrescante…
Por cierto, este no es un romance cristiano.
***
Interesting and short and sweet historical romance. There is no much room for proper character and plot development but it´s engaging enough. And it´s different too. The plot is original. It would have been great if it was a full novel.
No dukes nor any titled rakes here. Neither whimpering teens who want to marry a title.
If that is not refreshing…
By the way, it is not a Christian romance.
December 31, 2016
Wow! I truly wish I had read this before Until the Dawn. It sets things up oh, so very nicely. It is also a real treat as far as characters! I loved Julia and Ashton's story--their escapades made me smile and laugh. And Ashton has to be one of the most endearing "hero" characters I've read of late. I just couldn't help but like these two.
September 9, 2018
2.5 ⭐
I did enjoyed the story as a whole but there's some parts that I didn't or I had problems with (head up to cons with spoilers).
Pro:
1. I like the characters tho I think we're lacking of antagonist's appearance throughout.
2. That little mention of Malaya got me googling for history accuracy and what not. ha!
3. There's something swoon worthy near the end 😍
Cons:
I read a free copy of this book through BookShout. Great apps btw!👍
November 3, 2020
This is a first time read for me by this author and this novella fell a little short for me. I thought that it was not developed as much and ir turned out to be two stories in one. I wanted the story reveal more into why the owners were so mean and rude and also their reasoning behind why they treated the grounds keeper family very well.
September 11, 2018
Nice novella from the Until Dawn series from Elizabeth Camden.
I was intrigued by the role women were starting to play in the medical field. I sympathized with Julia on her quest for getting a medical degree in order to become a medical missionary. She met obstacles and sometimes wasn’t mature enough to handle them, but she grew with the help of a benefactor.
I particularly liked the scenes in the barn where the goats were giving birth. It helped to show a camaraderie between the stuffy lawyer, Ashton and Julia, who won’t go back on her word to help the goat farmer.
Great start to the series. I am looking forward to reading the whole series. There seem to be more colorful characters to learn about.
*I purchased this novella from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
I was intrigued by the role women were starting to play in the medical field. I sympathized with Julia on her quest for getting a medical degree in order to become a medical missionary. She met obstacles and sometimes wasn’t mature enough to handle them, but she grew with the help of a benefactor.
I particularly liked the scenes in the barn where the goats were giving birth. It helped to show a camaraderie between the stuffy lawyer, Ashton and Julia, who won’t go back on her word to help the goat farmer.
Great start to the series. I am looking forward to reading the whole series. There seem to be more colorful characters to learn about.
*I purchased this novella from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
December 31, 2016
I did my review for this book on Smart Bitches Trashy Books such a long time ago but I never bothered to add this here. Basically this book is orientalist trash that glamorizes colonialism and slavery so two white people can fall in love. I have some more articulate (and gentle lol) thoughts in this review here.
March 30, 2018
"Sometimes ten seconds is all it takes to change the course of a life."
Julia Broeder's rash, albeit compassionate decision to save a life, has brought her to this point; waiting nervously outside the conference room at the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania, while twelve people determine the course of her future. Would she finish her final semester and sail towards her dream of medical missions, or would she be banished back to her former life on the grounds of a vast estate, with only goats as patients?
It seems that God will provide an unlikely ally; a young attorney who sees Julia through the eyes of his own boyhood dreams, as he encourages her to press forward, " This is your first test, there are going to be more, and it's going to be hard . . . . . but I have never seen someone run toward a dream with as much passion as you."
A lovely story with a subtle hint of things to come.
Julia Broeder's rash, albeit compassionate decision to save a life, has brought her to this point; waiting nervously outside the conference room at the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania, while twelve people determine the course of her future. Would she finish her final semester and sail towards her dream of medical missions, or would she be banished back to her former life on the grounds of a vast estate, with only goats as patients?
It seems that God will provide an unlikely ally; a young attorney who sees Julia through the eyes of his own boyhood dreams, as he encourages her to press forward, " This is your first test, there are going to be more, and it's going to be hard . . . . . but I have never seen someone run toward a dream with as much passion as you."
A lovely story with a subtle hint of things to come.
May 18, 2018
I enjoyed this novella. I had previously read 'Until the Dawn' and enjoyed seeing mentions of Quentin and the appearance of Sophie as a supporting character in Julia's story. I like how both Julia and Ashton overcame what was holding them each back and were able to go confidently into the future that God had for them.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
May 25, 2018
I can tell that we will get more of Sophie in the main book, but this one was cute .. we follow Julie a would-be doctor who got herself expelled while rescuing a dog from his cruel owner and she have to get the help of Lawyer Ashton to get her back to college
it was a cute story filled with goats and sweet talks .. but it wasn't that enjoyable to me
it was a cute story filled with goats and sweet talks .. but it wasn't that enjoyable to me
May 29, 2016
I had already downloaded this short book some time ago, but was prompted to read it now by an extremely critical guest review on SBTB, that outlined this novella's Orientalism and neglect of the true problems Far East was experiencing in the late XIX century. I am happy to say I didn't find Toward the Sunrise as racist and marred by Orientalism as the reviewer, but then I'm not American and don't have the critical approach to racism as Americans do. The aim of this novella is never to talk about the conditions of Malaya and its inhabitants, but merely to lay the foundations for Until The Dawn (the main novel of which Toward the Sunrise is but the premise) and of the Dierenpark estate, that has nothing to do with East Asia.
If anything, we can criticise Toward the Sunrise for its superficiality about almost everything: the two protagonists lack chemistry and their love story is thin at best. Even without knowing the existence of Until the Dawn, I sensed that Sophie van Rijn attracted more focus than the heroine, Julia. But then, if we have to accuse this romance of shallowness, a large part of romances would be found guilty.
I generally downplay the physical handsomess of romance characters in my mind, but for once I was ready to imagine Ashton Clayton as handsome as he's described. Actually, from his sense of fashion I initially suspected he may be gay, and that the hero would be Quentin Vandermark (the hero of Until the Dawn.) But it's good to imagine a guy with a sense of taste every now and then.
Even if Toward the Sunrise fails at being a passionate love story, it succeeded in its main purpose, which was to make me buy Until the Dawn (15% of it is offered at the end of the novella) because I had to know the secret of Dierenpark and loved the idea of Sophie and Quentin as H/h. And when I started reading Until the Dawn, Toward the Sunrise proved a great introduction to that universe. So please consider Toward the Sunrise but the introduction to Until the Dawn and don't expect much more.
If anything, we can criticise Toward the Sunrise for its superficiality about almost everything: the two protagonists lack chemistry and their love story is thin at best. Even without knowing the existence of Until the Dawn, I sensed that Sophie van Rijn attracted more focus than the heroine, Julia. But then, if we have to accuse this romance of shallowness, a large part of romances would be found guilty.
I generally downplay the physical handsomess of romance characters in my mind, but for once I was ready to imagine Ashton Clayton as handsome as he's described. Actually, from his sense of fashion I initially suspected he may be gay, and that the hero would be Quentin Vandermark (the hero of Until the Dawn.) But it's good to imagine a guy with a sense of taste every now and then.
Even if Toward the Sunrise fails at being a passionate love story, it succeeded in its main purpose, which was to make me buy Until the Dawn (15% of it is offered at the end of the novella) because I had to know the secret of Dierenpark and loved the idea of Sophie and Quentin as H/h. And when I started reading Until the Dawn, Toward the Sunrise proved a great introduction to that universe. So please consider Toward the Sunrise but the introduction to Until the Dawn and don't expect much more.
April 17, 2016
I've enjoyed reading Elizabeth Camden's books ever since I read her debut some years ago, and have read everything by her since. Her newest is a novella that I think sets the stage for her next novel, while simultaneously giving a sweet, quick romance with two characters whose story, though short, I found engaging. I loved how the two main characters, Julia and Ashton, have an interest in Asian culture, which is not something I often seen in the Christian fiction market. As someone who finds Asia a fascinating place, I felt connected with the main characters in this. I also just like Camden's writing style. She somehow manages to give a story with humor without it ever actually feeling like a comedy. She weaves in funny situations, yet the story is not full of laugh out loud moments because there's also some parts that made me think, at least somewhat, on a deeper level.
As for dislikes, the only thing I found a bit not my taste was the kissing scenes. They just seemed sudden, like the author was rushing it. Which I understand somewhat because this is a novella, which does not give much time to develop some things in the story. But I still found the suddenness of some of the kissing to be distracting.
But overall, yes, I did enjoy this shorter story by Elizabeth Camden, and think my fellow fan of her previous books will enjoy this one, too. I give "Toward the Sunrise" a rating of four, and recommend to mature teens and adults.Now if her next novel would hurry and release, because I definitely want to read the book this novella is a companion to.
Oh, and on a side-note, this little short story is only available as an e-book, but there is good news. It's FREE. So give it a try, okay?
As for dislikes, the only thing I found a bit not my taste was the kissing scenes. They just seemed sudden, like the author was rushing it. Which I understand somewhat because this is a novella, which does not give much time to develop some things in the story. But I still found the suddenness of some of the kissing to be distracting.
But overall, yes, I did enjoy this shorter story by Elizabeth Camden, and think my fellow fan of her previous books will enjoy this one, too. I give "Toward the Sunrise" a rating of four, and recommend to mature teens and adults.Now if her next novel would hurry and release, because I definitely want to read the book this novella is a companion to.
Oh, and on a side-note, this little short story is only available as an e-book, but there is good news. It's FREE. So give it a try, okay?
December 7, 2015
Toward the Sunrise by Elizabeth Camden is a Christian historical romance novella, available in electronic format only. It's a prequel to the full length novel Until The Dawn. Toward the Sunrise is set 1897, mostly at the Dierenpark estate in New York, owned by the wealthy Vandermark family.
Julia Broeder is six months away from graduating from medical college when one decision leads to her expulsion. She wants to work as a medical missionary, and the expulsion has thrown a wrench in her plans.
Ashton Carlyle is an attorney for the Vandermark family, and is in charge of overseeing the staff at Dierenpark, including the Broeder family. Julia's deceased father was the groundskeeper, and now her brother has taken on the role.
What I liked:
*I liked Ashton's character, and I loved the fact that he liked Julia, character flaws and all.
*I really liked the setting of Dierenpark and am interested in seeing more of it in Until the Dawn. I am hoping to learn more about the Broeders as well.
What I disliked:
*I agree with another reviewer who said that the first kiss came too suddenly.
*I was sometimes impatient with Julia, but that just means that we have an imperfect heroine, and there's nothing wrong with that.
I recommend this book to fans of Christian historical romances set in America and feel it is appropriate for teenagers as well as adults. I'd say this is a 4 1/2 star book.
I love Elizabeth Camden's writing, especially The Lady of Bolton Hill and try to keep up with her. I will certainly be reading Until the Dawn.
Julia Broeder is six months away from graduating from medical college when one decision leads to her expulsion. She wants to work as a medical missionary, and the expulsion has thrown a wrench in her plans.
Ashton Carlyle is an attorney for the Vandermark family, and is in charge of overseeing the staff at Dierenpark, including the Broeder family. Julia's deceased father was the groundskeeper, and now her brother has taken on the role.
What I liked:
*I liked Ashton's character, and I loved the fact that he liked Julia, character flaws and all.
*I really liked the setting of Dierenpark and am interested in seeing more of it in Until the Dawn. I am hoping to learn more about the Broeders as well.
What I disliked:
*I agree with another reviewer who said that the first kiss came too suddenly.
*I was sometimes impatient with Julia, but that just means that we have an imperfect heroine, and there's nothing wrong with that.
I recommend this book to fans of Christian historical romances set in America and feel it is appropriate for teenagers as well as adults. I'd say this is a 4 1/2 star book.
I love Elizabeth Camden's writing, especially The Lady of Bolton Hill and try to keep up with her. I will certainly be reading Until the Dawn.
November 10, 2015
It's been 60 years since any Vandermarks have lived in Dierenpark, their original family estate. But they continue to pay the taxes and the servants, and they especially take good care of the Broeder family. Until now, the Broeder family hasn't been any trouble. But Julia Broeder has been expelled from medical school 6 months before graduating. When she visits the Vandermarks attorney Ashton Carlyle, she gets no sympathy for her predicament and no offer to help her appeal the expulsion.
But Nicolaas Vandermark, the head of the Vandermark dynasty, is outrageously superstitious, and he is convinced that the Broeders, who have been maintaining the grounds at Dierenpark for generations, need to be completely satisfied. So Ashton Carlyle is charged with the job of getting Julia Broeder reinstated into medical school... now that Julia has convinced herself she doesn't want to return.
I loved Julia and her passion. I loved Ashton. He has given up his boyhood dreams to travel Asia and see the world so he can take care of his father. He may dress the part of a successful Vandermark attorney, but he has the heart of a boy who loves his father and would do anything for him.
Content: Very clean
Source: Amazon.com
But Nicolaas Vandermark, the head of the Vandermark dynasty, is outrageously superstitious, and he is convinced that the Broeders, who have been maintaining the grounds at Dierenpark for generations, need to be completely satisfied. So Ashton Carlyle is charged with the job of getting Julia Broeder reinstated into medical school... now that Julia has convinced herself she doesn't want to return.
I loved Julia and her passion. I loved Ashton. He has given up his boyhood dreams to travel Asia and see the world so he can take care of his father. He may dress the part of a successful Vandermark attorney, but he has the heart of a boy who loves his father and would do anything for him.
Content: Very clean
Source: Amazon.com
September 30, 2015
Toward the Sunrise is a sweet fast novella, and a page-turner at that. We are at the end of the nineteenth century and we have a young woman in college near the end of her degree of becoming a doctor.
Not only is Julia on the cutting edge of being a woman doctor, she has way too much spunk for one so young. There is something strange about the way she was able to afford to go to medical school. Her father was a groundskeeper at the Vandermark estate, and for some reason one of the lawyers for the Vandermark’s, Ashton Carlyle, is told to do all possible to help her.
In the end I wondered if she was ever going to get a medical degree, or maybe a Veterinarian? She ends up helping dogs and goats, and Ashton ends up doing a lot more than he thought he would in order to make her dreams come true.
There is also a beginning of a new book that is coming out featuring a character we meet named Sophia. I really enjoyed reading this and was done way to soon!
I received this Novella through Bethany House Publishers and was not required to give a positive review.
Not only is Julia on the cutting edge of being a woman doctor, she has way too much spunk for one so young. There is something strange about the way she was able to afford to go to medical school. Her father was a groundskeeper at the Vandermark estate, and for some reason one of the lawyers for the Vandermark’s, Ashton Carlyle, is told to do all possible to help her.
In the end I wondered if she was ever going to get a medical degree, or maybe a Veterinarian? She ends up helping dogs and goats, and Ashton ends up doing a lot more than he thought he would in order to make her dreams come true.
There is also a beginning of a new book that is coming out featuring a character we meet named Sophia. I really enjoyed reading this and was done way to soon!
I received this Novella through Bethany House Publishers and was not required to give a positive review.
November 29, 2015
I truly loved this novella. Elizabeth Camden is such a wonderful writer. I have read several of her books and never was disappointed. The H in this novella was a man after my own heart with his dedication to his father and his treatment of others. The h had just the right mix of spunk and fire. She stood up for what she believed in, however, she did have some growing to do, as we all do at times. This novella got me off the computer games and back into my love of reading. I kinda lost my way there, but Elizabeth got me back on track. I have reserved a copy of Until the Dawn from my local library and can't wait until they get it in. If you love clean historical romance, you will love, love, love this novella!!!
May 5, 2016
I immediately fell in love with Julia. Her daring, adventurous character was gripping, and her love for Ashton transformed very quickly. I understand why it moved so quickly, because they had a slight backstory and spent a lot of time together. Also, it was meant to be a short book, so I'm sure a lot happened that didn't need to be explained elaborately. I'm sort of disappointed that they won't be the main people in Until the Dawn (which I will read soon) because I loved their characters so much. Elizabeth Camden's books always include a fresh romance with some sort of twist. Julton (Julie and Ashton) is my new OTP :)
October 14, 2015
What a great novella! I loved Julia's enthusiasm for life. She's in medical school and gets kicked out after a kindhearted but reckless decision. Ashton is the lawyer she appeals to for help. And she gets quite a different response from him than she expected. The story is enjoyable and sweet.
I love the setting and can't wait for Camden's novel Until the Dawn, which is Julia's friend Sophie's story. I'm a huge fan of Elizabeth Camden.
I love the setting and can't wait for Camden's novel Until the Dawn, which is Julia's friend Sophie's story. I'm a huge fan of Elizabeth Camden.
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