Continuing Crystal Caudill’s Unlocking the Past Reading Challenge, I chose another Jocelyn Green book. June’s book was to be set in the 1870s- 1890s. For this portion of the challenge, I chose Mrs. Green’s newest release, Shadows of the White City. When I saw the dates for June’s book choice, I immediately knew this was the one.
This is the second book in her Windy City Saga. If you have not read the first book, Veiled in Smoke, I recommend that you do. It’s not necessary to understand the storyline of Shadows of the White City, but it does help to understand some of the backstory of the characters.
I received Veiled in Smoke as a Christmas gift. I enjoyed it so much that I preordered Shadows of the White City and read it as soon as I got it in the mail. There are not many books that I read twice, but this one was an exception.
What’s it about?
Shadows of the White City follows Sylvie Townsend through the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. Sylvie took in and raised a young Polish immigrant named Rose Dabrowski who is seventeen at the time of the story. When Rose goes missing, Sylvie seeks the help of her tenant, friend and Rose’s violin instructor, Kristof Bartok, to help in the search.
Why I liked this book
The setting is so much fun. The fair gives as much of a thrill as the action taking place. Sylvie’s tours are so detailed that I feel as though I’m right there with her.
My Favorite Characters
It’s always hard for me to choose only one favorite character. For me, Sylvie and Kristof are my favorites.
Sylvie Townsend
Sylvie’s personality shines through as she guides her tour groups through the fair. Her friendships with her tenants is great to see. She also has a close bond with her family.
Kristof Bartok
Kristof is first violin in the Fair’s orchestra. Though I have never played violin, I did play the French horn from middle school through college, so I found many areas of Kristof’s orchestra scenes I could identify with. It’s always fun for me to find those types of aspects in a story.
My Recommendation
Anyone who enjoys history, suspense, or is curious about the Chicago World’s Fair would enjoy this book. There are so many fun scenes at the fair, especially in the Midway.
I highly recommend this book for your reading pleasure. For more information on Jocelyn Green’s books, please visit her website at www.jocelyngreen.com.