A Daring Venture by Elizabeth Camden

Isn't this cover simply beautiful!!!
ISBN: 9780764218828
Paperback $15.99
Bethany House Pub.

My thoughts:  I found the history behind the introduction of the chlorination process into the water treatment to eliminate water-borne diseases quite interesting as woven into the story. The book is interesting from a historical standpoint - though it is, of course, a work of fiction. The author does great research.

The two main characters, Rosalind Werner and Nick Drake, have strong character traits and some very weak ones. With Rosalind we see a young lady whose past haunts her though she is innocent of culpability. She is a scientist in a time when women who achieved such a high level of education and expertise were not readily accepted. With Nick we have a young man of wealth who is newly wealthy and lacks some of the social graces that would normally accompany such. However, his main flaw is his impulsiveness. He is quick to act on attraction and romantic inclinations. And sadly, he is very quick to become angry and lash out.

The legal struggle to chlorinate the water system is deftly woven into the attraction of these two main characters who are, seemingly, on opposite sides of the battle. Their blossoming romance further complicates their professional lives and this historical battle of wits, legalese, and subterfuge.

I find it disturbing that Nick's quick-to-be-angry  and quick-to-make-up and be accepted by Rosalind too quickly. Relationships where such is the behavior of the man quite often lead to violence toward the woman in later times. It will be interesting in the sequel where a minor character in this book is the focus if we see Nick still exhibiting his angry/sweet behavior. I do look forward to reading the next book in this series by Elizabeth Camden.

About the book: As a biochemist in early 1900s New York, Doctor Rosalind Werner has dedicated her life to the crusade against water-borne diseases. She is at the forefront of a groundbreaking technology that will change the way water is delivered to every household in the city--but only if she can get people to believe in her work.

Newly appointed Commissioner of Water for New York Nickolas Drake is highly skeptical of Rosalind and her team's techniques. When a brewing court case throws him into direct confrontation with her, he is surprised by his reaction to the lovely scientist.

While Rosalind and Nick wage a private war against their own attraction, they stand firmly on opposite sides of a battle that will impact far more than just their own lives. As the controversy grows more public and inflammatory and Rosalind becomes the target of an unknown enemy, these two rivals will face higher stakes than they ever could have known.

Interesting web info: John Leal, scientist  Is chlorinated water safe  Water chlorination

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.