Book Review – Into the Whirlwind

Into the Whirlwind is a new novel by Elizabeth Camden. The story centers around the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and focuses on the effect the fire had on two individuals – Mollie Knox and Zack Kazmarek. Mollie is the owner of the 57^th Illinois Watch Company, a business she inherited from her late father and one that employees many of the Civil War veterans he fought with. Zack is a powerful attorney who came from humble beginnings. He is a formidable figure in the Chicago business community who is seemingly intimidated by only one person – Mollie.

This is the second novel I have read by Elizabeth Camden. It was very interesting to read about the Great Chicago Fire, a historical event that I am familiar with, but prior to reading this novel (and doing some subsequent research) knew little about. The author did a good job of bringing the devastation of the fire – both to the city and its citizens – to life.

The storyline moves back and forth between Mollie’s viewpoint and Zack’s, with plenty of expected misperceptions and events occurring to seemingly foil their chances of ending up together. However, I prefer novels this way as it makes them seem more realistic. It makes for a much more engrossing read and this novel moved along at such a steady clip that I could barely put it down. The author keeps the reader guessing and I was eager to find out what was going to happen next.

Though a work of Christian fiction, there were not a lot of biblical undertones to the story. It read more like secular historical fiction than Christian historical fiction. Like in her other book that I read (The Rose of Winslow Street), there is a scene of brutal violence depicted in this story. It creates a sad subplot, but does realistically depict things that can happen after a tragedy. Though most people are good, some are not.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it. It is an engaging, fast-moving story with well-developed, interesting characters. Even if you don’t typically read Christian fiction – this book is one to put on your list.

Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.