Finally, finally! Luke's story is amazing!
I've been putting off reading this story for what seems like awhile.
It's one of those that I knew I'd have to read. But if I went ahead and read it, then my time would be over with these characters. Bittersweet.
I just loved the story! I will admit, it is a bit cliche....two families that are at bitter odds with each other, what are the chances that two people fall in love...can we just say Romeo and Juliet?
In spite of that, this is such a fun story. I loved seeing how this might come about, and wondering what might need to happen to make their love story work.
Luke was always the bad boy of the Delacroix. But he's a changed man. And he is bent on changing a few things in the Washington area. Not the least of which is Clyde McGruver's underhanded food packaging practices. And how unfortunate that the lovely Marianne....is Clyde's daughter.
Even though these two were forbidden to see each other, somehow they just can't help themselves.
Elizabeth Camden has once again done such a fantastic job at bringing those early days in Washington to light. Lots of amazing details, beautiful setting, and much more.
The Prince of Spies is a truly delightful ending to a beautiful series.
I can't wait to see what Ms. Camden comes up with next!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

This was another wonderful book by Elizabeth Camden! The characters, setting, and plot were very nicely formed. And it was really interesting to get a look into the early days of food preservatives being used in mass production. It was scary the way it was being used back then! And I loved getting a deeper look in the story of Luke, since he was a very interesting character I first met in the earlier books of this series. Plus the plot had a very interesting twist to it with Luke being a Delacroix and Marianne being a Magruder. Personally I think this was the perfect story to wrap up the series, and I highly recommend it!


I received this book free through NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. The opinions are my own.

Thanks to Bethany House for the free review copy.
This was such a sweet conclusion to this trilogy. Luke is filled with such passion for whatever he does, and I enjoyed reading about his journey with trying to reconcile all of his different passions together - especially when they clash terribly with each other. Luke's story is full of hardship, yet he grew in his faith. The experience of this was so great to read about.
I love forbidden romances, and with family rivalries being the love interests in this one made it so much fun to see how it would all work out. Luke and Marianne were such a fun couple to read about. I liked their chemistry and honesty. This relationship took courage, and the process of seeing that being developed in each of them was such great character development.
Also, the story wraps by telling what happens with all of the siblings, which gives such fun closure to the stories.

The Prince of Spies is book number three in Elizabeth Camden's Hope and Glory series. While I believe this could be read as a standalone, I feel like readers will definitely get the most out of the story if they have read the first two books as Luke's story really has been introduced all throughout the series.

I must admit even from book one it was really Luke's character that drew me in the most, so I was thrilled to finally get to read more of his story. From book one to book three, his growth and development as a character has been really entertaining to read.

This book and the series as a whole is fantastic with a great blend of mystery, romance and history. I could not get enough and found this book to be well worth the wait. If you enjoy historical fiction, this is definitely one to check out.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

The Prince of Spies( which the title is also a play on Prince of Spice which I love) is the final book in the series, which means, besides the plot and character development it also has the responsibility to tie up loose ends from the previous books. Which it does magnificently.

Luke meets Marianne and they have instant attraction, going out of their way to meet up. Until they find out their families are mortal enemies, a la Romeo and Juliet-esque. And like Romeo and Juliet, there maybe poison involved.

I love the use of history in this book, actual history of Washington DC and the beginnings of the FDA. The small tidbits of the start of the National Mall, demolishing a beautiful train station to make this happen. I very much appreciate how much research and details Camden sprinkled throughout her books and this want an exception.

I also enjoyed the romance between Luke and Marianne. Had great pacing, a mixture of internal dialogue and external conversations, and was relatable/believable.

And the plot was not neglected! Following actual events Luke volunteers as a taste tester for a study to see the affects of eating preservatives found in food in the Edwardian Era. Food Mariannes father made his fortune off of. Great pacing and very interesting, the plot add to the romance and entwined itself firmly within.

Like a three strand rope, history, plot, and romance are Camden’s bread and butter and this one did not disappoint.

The Prince of Spies is the 3rd book in the Hope and Glory series by Elizabeth Camden, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel. A chance encounter with Luke Delacroix and Marianne Magruder begins an ill-fated romance hampered by the fact that their families are enemies and business rivals in the food industry. The story becomes more complicated as Luke goes undercover to investigate food safety claims and seeks to undercover Marianne's father's underhanded dealings. Camden has shed light on the forgotten dangers of food safety during the Gilded Age that ultimately brought about government regulation and food safety reforms.

Another masterpiece by Elizabeth Camden. Beautifully written, excellent character development and a very satisfying conclusion to this trilogy. Five stars.

My thoughts ms Camden just totally out done herself with a series. I didn't care much for the first book but I love the second and this third one not the series out of the ballpark. I couldn't put it down. I absolutely loved Luke. And attention between the characters were outstanding. If you like historical romances set in the gilded age you will love Miss Camden's series. She writes about unique subjects that you won't see another books. She is one of my very few favorite historical authors.


I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.

The third book in this series does not disappoint. It was beautiful to see Luke again and his twin sister, Caroline. Their older brother Gray is also there, though I need to go back and read his story. This story was reminiscent of all star crossed lovers, but this one had a happily ever after. A hard fought, flawed happily ever after, but happy nonetheless. Because without the bitter, where is the sweet.

Trigger warning - there was an incident with an animal that would be upsetting to some, but it did set up the true character of a secondary character.

I loved the real life look into our food safety laws and the history of preservatives, also the creation of the National Mall in Washington, DC. This book reminds that the glitz and glamor of the upper crust is a carefully preserved mask. It delves into the heart of what is important in family, country, and honor. It also has a beautiful relationship with faith and Christianity, showing that faith very much belongs in the forefront of our lives. It shows the power of forgiveness and the healing power of love and truth.

I received an early ecopy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.

Ugh! I was expecting more action due to Luke's previous work. But sometimes undercover work isn't all about shooting and breaking into the bad man's house. However I was hooked with the romance aspect and found myself laughing with the poison squad. Also the author tied and ended this series perfectly!

Luke Delacroix has cut a dashing figure across the first two books of Camden's Hope and Glory series, and now he has his own chance to shine. Back in Washington, DC, after his stint in a Cuban jail, Luke's mission is to see certain congressmen ousted from their positions for their support over untested preservatives and fillers in mass-produced canned food. The root of Luke's dedication is the Delacroix's generations-long feud with the Magruder family, whose food empire has been known to use questionable practices.

One winter day Luke helps rescue a dog, and falls half in love with the spunky woman who assisted him. They manage to form a friendship before either of them realizes their last names: He's a Delacroix, and she's Marianne Magruder, the daughter of Luke's sworn enemy.

Marianne traverses Washington as a photographer for the Department of the Interior, documenting the status of buildings around the district. When she's sent on a job to photograph the new hygienic table trials—a months-long human experiment on food preservatives—she runs into Luke again.

This book is full of fascinating history surrounding Washington, DC, in 1902, as well the beginning of what would eventually be the Food and Drug Administration. Luke's vibrancy and Marianne's loyalty provide the perfect blend of personalities to carry the ins and outs of the plot. I enjoyed the Romeo and Juliet romance, and found this to be another winner from this author!

Content warning: There is one instance of actual swearing in this book, which took me by surprise. Use your own discretion about choosing this or any other reading material.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.

In The Prince of Spies, Elizabeth Camden delivers another exciting and emotional historical romance. Marianne Magruder is a photographer for the Department of the Interior tasked with documenting historical buildings in Washington D.C. in order to make a case for their preservation. She is the daughter of Clyde Magruder, a senator and the owner of a leading American food manufacturing company. Luke Delacroix is a journalist and an outspoken opponent of the use of dangerous food preservatives, and his sites are set on taking Clyde Magruder down. But when circumstances throw Marianne and Luke together, neither knowing who the other is, will they be able to see eye to eye and fight for a common cause, or will the generations old feud between their families tear them apart?

I am always excited to get my hands on a new Elizabeth Camden book, and The Prince of Spies did not let me down. I love the little known historical facts that are woven into her stories. From start to finish, this book is exciting and full of emotion. It is well paced, and the characters are well developed and full of personality. I appreciate how Luke’s faith is tied into the story, as well as the themes of forgiveness and selflessness. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put this book down. I absolutely loved it!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

We met Luke Delacroix under terrible circumstances in the first book of the Hope and Glory series, then again in the second book. Now, he gets his own story. The Prince of Spies, the long-awaited (for me) third book in Elizabeth’s Camden’s series is ready for your reading pleasure. And, indeed, it is a pleasure. 🙂

The Delacroixes, Luke in particular, have one major enemy: Clyde Magruder, a competitor in the food industry. So the last thing Luke expects is to fall head over heels when he meets Marianne Magruder, the daughter of his nemesis.

Fresh out of a Cuban prison, the intrepid Luke deals with the afteraffects of months locked up under horrid conditions, never wanting to experience that atrocity again. A government photographer, Marianne has her own issue with a secret from her past. Together, they’re an early 20th-century Romeo and Juliet, the victims of a feud worthy of the Hatfields and McCoys – minus the flying lead.

From the get-go, I enjoyed meeting Luke and could tell he would be a worthy hero, which he is. He’s brave and mischievous and loyal, the first and latter being a characteristic Marianne shares. She’s loyal to her family, even when they don’t deserve it, but even she has her limits. I loved seeing how these two got together when it seemed all was lost.

The whole series swept me up and carried me off to the late 1890s/early 20th century, involving me in espionage, assasination, and the foundations for the present-day FDA.

So, let’s get to the nitty-gritty. I give a full five stars to The Prince of Spies. Okay, I give them to the whole series.

As she stretches out on the frozen river trying to rescue her nephews dog who has fallen through.. a man is suddenly beside her with the help no one else was willing to offer. When all were safe back on dry land, they both were set on a destiny that would change three generations of rivalry and their future. Can their newfound interest in each other survive a political firestorm, or will the three generations of family rivalry put an end to any romance? Interesting interaction between the families and an ending I was hoping for.

I’ve long been a fan of Elizabeth Camden and have greatly enjoyed the previous books in this series, so I was excited to see Luke’s book out in the world! I’ve been anticipating his side of the story, especially after all of the shenanigans his siblings have credited to him in the last two books. As usual, this book certainly didn’t disappoint, though I am a little sad to see the end of the series.
As expected, Ms. Camden’s writing beautifully brings to life Gilded-Age Washington, DC. I always greatly enjoy the different roles and historical nuances her books portray. For example, I had no idea the government paid photographers to document buildings and such during this time period. Another aspect of the history that I found fascinating was the push for what became The Pure Food and Drug Act. The theme had been a part of The Spice King as well and it was interesting to see it become more resolved in this book. And it was so interesting to read about the plans for the National Mall, along with the differing of opinions regarding its construction! I’m also just a nerdy reader.
History aside, I adored Luke and Marianne’s love story! It was so sweet, but also a little steamy now and then. Luke is such a kind hero, though his passion for justice and truth can rub against this trait. And Marianne was someone I think I would dearly enjoy knowing, especially as I saw her character change throughout the story.
Overall, I have greatly enjoyed this entire series and would recommend reading all of the books, if you have the time/inclination!

*My thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book! I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise, and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Prince of Spies is a twist on the Romeo and Juliet story, complete with feuding families and threats of poison. When Luke Delacroix helps a lady save a dog, he is immediately intrigued and wants to get to know her better. Unfortunately, she is Marianne Magruder, from the Magruder family who have been Delacroix enemies for decades. She’s the adopted daughter of Congressman Clyde Magruder, who Luke wants removed from office because of his history of favouring his own business interests over the public good. (In this case, “public good” means not producing food that kills people.)

Luke volunteers for medical trials intended to determine if the food additives Magruder and others use are safe. The men become known as the Poison Squad, which is based on real-life research conducted by Dr Wiley, the man responsible for the establishment of the US Food & Drug Administration in 1906. It is thanks to Dr Wiley and his Poison Squad that we now understand what preservatives are safe for use in food, and in what quantities.

That’s the kind of historical factoid which fascinates me and is the element that raises Elizabeth Camden’s novels into the must-read category for me. Anyway, back to the story …

Marianne is attracted to Luke, enough to go behind her father’s back when he forbids her to see Luke again.
But she’s fiercely loyal to her father and the Magruder family, despite Luke’s accusations. As the story goes on, it becomes apparent that she’ll have to choose between her family and Luke (although historical record, as well as the fact this is a romance novel, makes her choice obvious). This doesn’t detract from the plot – if anything, it strengthens it as I wonder how the author is going to achieve the impossible.

The Prince of Spies is the third novel in Elizabeth Camden’s Hope and Glory series. I suspect it’s the final one, as the Delacroix siblings are now all married. however, it’s definitely a cast of characters I’d like to read more about, for the historical context, for the brilliant writing, and for the characters themselves.

This is definitely a must-read for fans of Christian historical romance, or those historical fiction fans who enjoy a good story based around real-life events. Recommended.

Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

The Prince of Spies is the third and final book in the Hope and Glory series by Elizabeth Camden.
This may just be my favorite series by her yet, it's fabulous.
If you love historical books and want to learn something from them read this author's books because her research is immaculate. She brings to the forefront what other authors won't. It may not be pretty and delicately wrapped in a bow but it's the truth and sometimes the truth can be harsh when it's exposed.
Each of the siblings have a turn at telling their own story in this series and this is Luke's story.
Taking place in the Gilded Age Washington, D.C. 1902.
The book starts with Luke seeing a young woman attempting to rescue a dog who has fallen through the ice. Not knowing who she is he rescues the dog but can't get this woman out of his mind.
They make a connection on that ice but he still doesn't know who she is.
After he's able to track her down and realizes she's the daughter of Congressman Clyde Magruder that's when the trouble starts.
At one time the Magruders and Delacroixs family had a joint business partnership in the food industry. Luke and Clyde ran this business partnership.
The Delacroixs made sure the quality of their products where safe for consumers but the Magruder family added fillers and preservatives to the product to stretch the profits without permission from the Delacroixs family. When this turned fatal for some of the consumers Luke never forgave himself or the Magruder family.
When it turns out that Marianne is the daughter of this congressman will it even be possible for the two to be friends let alone any more?
It was fascinating reading about the "Poison Squad" . This was a group of volunteers before the Pure Food and Drug Act, the FDA. These men ate food with preservatives and fillers in a four month study to see how ingesting it affected them, sometimes it proved fatal.
This author's books are auto-reads for me. The research and quality of her books goes above and beyond others.
Make sure to read the fascinating historical note at the end of the book about the Pure Food and Drug Act.
I highly suggest this book and look forward to her next book.

Published February 16th 2021 by Bethany House Publishers
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Prince of Spies, by Elizabeth Camden is book three in The Hope and Glory Series. This story takes place the early 1900’s in the Washington D.C. area. This story takes over where the second in the series ends, so this series should be read in order.

Marianne is out with her nephew when the nephew’s dog falls through the ice. She has gone out onto the unsafe ice to try to rescue the dog. When Luke becomes aware of the situation he also goes out on the ice to help and ends up falling through the ice. The onlookers step in and help with the rescue.

Luke Delacroix comes from a food industry family that has had a feud with the Magruder family, also in the food industry. While Luke’s family focus is high quality, safe, healthy foods, the Magruder family adds preservatives to cheapen their food. Luke feel guilty for taking part in selling coffee with additives that resulted in three a few people dying. He has served time in a Cuban prison and is now home and plans to do something about the food industry. When given the opportunity he takes part in a study of foods with additives to help prove the danger involved. As his and Marianne’s relationship grows, he finds out she is part of the Magruder family.

This is a great conclusion to the series. I enjoyed reading of the previous characters and what was happening in their lives. While this story has unexpected twists and turns, it is easy to see what the story was leading up to. The part in the story that I especially enjoyed was when Marianne and her grandfather would voice their feeling about what was going on in their family. The story is great at pointing out that what appearance someone might have to the public is not always what the true story is. I appreciate the strong faith Luke has especially when it came to dealing with her parents. I also enjoyed that Marianne had a life outside of being a congressman’s daughter and she followed her passion with having a job she enjoyed.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

A fast and fun read! Definitely more twists and turns than I was expecting, would recommend! The characters were enjoyable and the plot, though it initially seemed quite simple, was well thought out.

A delightful Romeo and Juliet type of story that’s firmly placed in real events. A really good read! This book had it all. I loved the hero and his questions. The heroine was trying so hard to keep the peace. The book was masterful. I missed the book before this one, but can't wait to go back and fill it in.