Ella Carey has become one of my favourite, go-to author’s and I couldn’t wait to read A New York Secret. The book is set during WWII, territory the author has covered before but is very different from her other books focusing on high society and as the war progresses money, status and connections cease to mean anything and cannot prevent the loss and tragedy of war. Lily is a great character. I fell in love with her, she’s feisty, hardworking and nothing like the high society women she’s surrounded by. I wanted her to have everything and it seems that way when she’s promoted at work and falls in love. But the end of the war brings further, unexpected changes. I’m still fuming about the way Lily and the other women in the restaurant are treated when men come home from the front. A New York Secret is a terrific book and the first in a series, Daughters of New York. I can’t wait to read the rest.

I think one of the best feelings for a book addict like myself is when I find a completely new author and the bonus is there are more books coming in this series! I’m really excited!

Set in NYC 1942 just as America starts to be more involved in WW2, Lily’s life is actually pretty good. Still living at home with her parents, she enjoys their gorgeous brownstone overlooking the park. She also loves her job, chef at a beautiful Art Deco style restaurant Valentino’s. However, despite the illustrious job and address her heart is in Greenwich Village. She loves the bohemian feel of the Italian community, and the gorgeous Italian food, plus there’s the attraction of Tom Morelli. Tom is also a very talented chef, and with his Sicilian heritage he has the skill to inspire and the looks to charm Lily. Then Tom is called up to fight in Italy, and Lily is devastated. Her parents are keen for her to marry someone they’ve chosen and don’t improve of her relationship with Tom. Lily knows where her heart lies, with her career and with Tom, but when Tom is declared missing in action she has to think. If Tom is gone, and she’s burned her bridges with her family, will her career be enough to sustain her?

I loved her relationship with Tom and the way they inspired each other to cook incredible dishes. Her menu at Valentino’s is a stark contrast to rationing and a nation that’s been through the Great Depression. This is culinary decadence and really fits with the Art Deco theme of the restaurant. It made me think about how late it was that America came into the war, and I really had the sense that for a certain class of people, war in Europe hasn’t even registered with them. Their money and ability to visit restaurants like Valentino’s, has insulated them against a war that feels so far away. Since Pearl Harbour, less than a year before the events of the book, people are starting to be affected. A city like NYC has a huge immigrant community and what if they are called up to fight for their home country? The feelings this must stir up, especially if that country is on the ‘wrong’ side of the war.

I also enjoyed the family relationships, which were not always good. The manipulation going on in the relationship between mother and daughter is uncomfortable and thankfully Lily has her grandmother to go to for some understanding and love without conditions, Grandma’s is where Lily can truly be comfortable and be herself and they share such a love of food too. Mum wants Lily to marry a childhood friend, but Lily knows her feelings for Nathaniel are simply friendship.

How will war now take its toll on Lily and her family and will Tony remain lost to her? I thoroughly enjoyed this historical novel, it gave me a perspective on WW2 I hadn’t experienced before and I’m truly looking forward to the next instalment.​

Lily Rose, an independent young woman and aspiring chef, comes from a privileged background. She detests being constricted into a way of life that is empty and meaningless and resists her mother's efforts to marry someone she doesn't love.

Working her way up at Valentino's, a famous New York restaurant, she finally achieves her dream of becoming a head chef, due in part to most of the men going off to war. We watch her mature and learn to make decisions that allow her to become more independent.

The story was quite interesting from a historical point of view, especially with rationing of both food and goods.

The story kept me interested right until the end although I did find myself confused at abrupt character changes toward the end of the story that didn't seem to be wholly believable.

Often times we only read stories about war in the midst of battles and evasions. Ella Carey gives us a story about the families back home and the affect war has on them and the sacrifices they have to make. Like any war, people on the home front are thrust into uncertainties and adjusting to a new way of life, even if temporary. Is it really temporary?

Women were called to do “men’s work” and this fact alone opened many opportunities and gave women a sense of pride and validity. We have much to thank them for…

Rationing food, gas and clothing became part of the necessary means and people had to find creative and alternatives to these commodities. While these things were taking place, there was also fear that gripped the nation for their love ones off fighting on the front lines.

These themes are woven throughout the story in an engrossing way that captivates the reader and gives one an appreciation for sacrifices that are made for the good of community.

I was completely enthralled with Lily’s strength and following her life during this period in history. All the characters, really, have a special role that gives this story depth and purpose.

What fun it was to read about the restaurant kitchen life and its culture.

A New York Secret is most definitely a thought-provoking, emotional story that portrays courage, hard choices, family, friendships in unlikely places and adversity.

Stephanie Hopkins

It's 1942 and Lily, a society woman, is living her dream cooking at Morelli's. She's also falling in love with Tom, which upsets her mother (in particular) more than she expected. Tom is drafted, Lily is given an ultimatum, and well, then things get even more traumatic. The only person in Lily's family who is supportive is Josie, her grandmother, who wants to see Lily succeed on her own terms. There are some terrific descriptions of food, some good characters, some characters you will be unhappy with, and all in all, it's an interesting twist on the WWII novel. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This big emotional novel will be a welcome treat for Carey's fans and others looking for a good read.

A New York Secret (Daughters of New York Book 1) by Ella Carey. This book was an amazing description of the restaurant Valentino’s the foods they came up with during the war using the war rations allowed. I loved all the characters in the book Lily and Tom, Gia, Lily’s grandma Josephine. I cannot imagine being promised to marry someone by your mother and not be in love with that person. Read the book you will like it.

Centered Around Lily Rose during 1942 with other points of view. Lily rose born socialite, who wants to be something more than doing what was required. ( Married around same circle ) Have children and manage house. This takes place shortly after America gets involved with World War Two. Where life is changing so fast, men left and right are being recruited and drafted.

Her plans and dreams her hopes to be a women chef are dashed when her parents want her to marry wealthy. Old Money Old money some sort of network ties. Family duty and dreams or love? Freedom such as being a working women not managing house. Doing a job beneath your dignity ( leave it up to the maids)

Be the wife of Nathaniel Carter or Tom Morelli so hard to choose Old money or working boy. Parental approval or just love and happiness. Well there's a war going on love can or can't wait.

This Arc was given to me by Netgalley in Exchange for an Honest review. March 12 2021 is its publish date.

Lily Rose is an upper class girl with a mind of her own. During World War 2 she takes up a job at the famous restaurant Valentino's. Her mother Victoria thinks it's a big mistake: Lily shouldn't be working, but thinking about her future, and about a formidable and rich husband. But Lily wants to do what she loves. And even more importantly, she wants to marry the man of her own choice.
While her mother is plotting Lily's future wedding to the attractive and well-known Nathaniel, Lily is working hard to become head chef of Valentino's, replacing Tom who has been sent to war. In the meantime, Lily has fallen head over heels for Tom, with his easy style and lovely blue jeans. But he is a working class boy, so what will her mother think?
Luckily Lily also has a wonderful grandmother, Josie, who supports her in every choice she makes. Josie is so much more like Lily than Victoria is!
Will Lily be able to follow her heart?

A New York Secret is Ella Carey's latest novel, the first in a trilogy set in New York. Last year I read Beyond the Horizon—which was rereleased by Carey's new publisher Bookouture—and was very much impressed by it.

I am sorely tempted to compare Carey's latest book to Beyond the Horizon, as both are situated during World War 2. Yet they couldn't be more different. Yes, both feature strong and independent women, but whereas in Beyond the Horizon these women actually participate in the war, here the 'battle' is fought on the home front. Lily is fighting for her rights and freedom, for women to be able to hold jobs, and for girls to be able to choose how to live their lives. Therefore I should not and will not compare the two books.

A New York Secret is a compelling story of how the all-consuming war affected the lives of the people at home in America. It gives us a great insight into how to be a proper lady before the war and how the war changed opportunities for women. Lily gives it her all. She wants to be a chef, even after the war has ended. Not only does she want to work, but she also wants to marry a man of her own choice, whatever his social class is.

Carey describes vividly how Lily falls for Tom, and how their relationship unfurls. But it's not all fun and happiness. When Tom disappears in Italy, A New York Secret turns into an emotional rollercoaster. Despair and courage alternately surface, competing for Lily's full attention.

There is one thing that had me doubting the book. Some of the characters, for example Victoria, flipped a little too easily from one strongly held opinion to the total opposite. In real life, this is something that usually takes some time. It happened a little too quickly in A New York Secret for my taste, rendering some parts of the story too easy and unrealistic.

But don't worry: you'll be too busy adoring Lily and her grandmother Josie to really notice these sudden changes! All in all, it is a lovely read.

It's 1942 in New York City and as the fury of WWII in Europe continues, people in New York are trying to keep their lives as normal as possible with the circumstances. As the men go off to war, so much is changing including food being rationed and the women left behind must press on. This story is centered around Lily, her family and the people she encounters as she proves her abilities as a chef at Valentino's. Her beloved grandmother, Josie, is the light of her life and encourages Lily to pursue her dreams. Josie is integral to Lily's story. Lily's mother is so cunning and wants to completely run Lily's life so Lily must convince her family and co-workers of her abilities and maybe, fall in love with Tom along the way. Lily and Tom realize they have so much in common. Their love of creating recipes and as they work together, find enjoyment and fulfillment being together. She must prove she can liberate herself and her position in society as people criticize her for wanting to excel in her career. You'll encounter snobby neighbors and some other chefs in the restaurant challenge her at every turn. Soon, secrets are exposed that could put Lily's dreams in jeopardy, and she must make some very difficult choices.
I really enjoyed everything about this book. This is book 1 of a series and now I can't wait for Lily to return! I have pre-ordered this one too. It's a keeper!

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review

Beautiful and independent, Lily Rose worked hard in the basement kitchen at New York’s upmarket restaurant, Valentino’s. She loved her job – loved to cook – her aim was to eventually be head chef. Her gram, Josie, was her idol. Lily continually clashed with her mother as she manipulated her daughter, demanding she marry the man she – her mother – had chosen for Lily. Childhood friends, Nathaniel was nothing more to Lily. When friction between mother and daughter was at its height, Lily made for the security and love of her grandmother where they would cook together, laugh together and where Lily was her happiest.

With war taking the young men away, many women were working in men’s positions. But when chef Tom Morelli was called to fight, Lily’s devastation was as great as his mother, Gia’s. Working was their salvation – and Lily’s determination to have a menu unrivalled in war time, with rations biting hard, saw her concocting delicious recipes to feed the hungry, much to the delight of Lily’s boss. But with the war ongoing, more soldiers dying and grief surrounding most people, what would happen to Lily and her family?

A New York Secret is the first in the Daughters of New York series by Aussie author Ella Carey, and I loved it! I’m thrilled I’ve found this author as this is my first by her, and it won’t be my last. The glitter and glamour of New York was easy to see in my mind’s eye as Carey painted verbal pictures. Some of the elite of the city seemed almost oblivious to the war going on at their doorstep. A New York Secret was a thoroughly enjoyable read which I highly recommend.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

I loved the idea of the book, a wealthy young woman wants to be a chef and gets a job at a famous NYC restaurant. When the men that work in the restaurant are called off to fight in the war, she gets a promotion and falls in love, not with the boy her mother wants her to marry, but the head chef. The next parts were a little predictable, but I still found the book a great escape from life. I wasn't thrilled with the ending. I just wanted something more I think, but overall I give a 4 star because of the setting, the originality, and the escapism the book provided.

I really enjoyed this book. A totally different perspective on WWII. The characters are complex and well developed. I loved following Lily through her struggle to break free from what society and her mother expected to follow her own dreams. So interesting to read how women stepped in during the war to keep the US running while the men were away., and how they were treated when the soldiers returned home. The unique opportunities and challenges these women faced, and the friendships that resulted are inspiring.

As a foodie, I found the victory gardens and ration recipes fascinating.

Thank you Ella Carey for this beautifully written book. I am looking forward to Book number 2!

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC.

This book was a fast, fun and emotional reads. It might be one of my favourite WW2 novels and that says alot. I love Tom Morelli with all of my heart and Lily was such an inspiration who went through so Much Sorrow and be manipulated by her mother

A New York Secret is a beautiful story of a girl borne into high society life working and dreaming as a Chef in New York City during WW2, showing class differences, cultural differences, and maybe above all, gender difficulties for women during that time period.

The author did an amazing job describing the scenes and giving life to being in a restaurant, the food and limitations that were placed on the city during the war. She portrayed the struggle of women working in a male-ruled world where, just because of your gender you had less opportunities, and were discriminated against before, during and immediately after the war. She also did a great job at pulling you in to the story and keeping you invested in the story and the characters.

The only reason for my lesser rating is that, while scenes and emotions were given great dimension in the story, the dialogue often felt one-dimensional. There was so much culture in NY and in the story that felt stripped and without character. There was almost no sense of what should have been a thick Italian accent or at least language and grammar threaded into many characters’ English being direct immigrants. It felt like they were normal multi-generational NYers and the richness was not present. At times the French in Vianne was there but none from the Morelli’s or any of the others we encounter. It was also odd when there was very old-fashioned conversation you’d expect from the 1800’s or early 1900’s (eg: “Dearest Nathanial”) from high society individuals and then extremely informal addressing of “mom” or “dad” from both those same people and from a direct Italian. It just wasn’t consistent or real for the period or culture.

Beyond that, I enjoyed the book and thought the content was terrific. Thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my review.

‘The New York Secret’ is book one of a new trilogy by author Ella Carey.

I have been reading a lot of World War Two fiction, but am constantly looking for a different perspective. New Year native, Lily Rose, has her life mapped out for her; her wealthy parents have vetted and selected an appropriate husband, Nathaniel, for Lily and once married, she will be expected to focus on carrying for both the house and children. Yet, Lily has no desire to marry and instead, she wants to work as a chef. Because of the great number of men being deployed, Lily is able to get a job at a swanky restaurant where she meets Tom whom she falls in love with. Yet her parents force her to make a choice: leave Tom and the restaurant or lose both her family and her inheritance. But as Lily wrestles with that choice, Tom is drafted to fight.

Though this story is set in a fascinating period of time, ultimately, its thread is timeless: a woman who struggles to find out who she is outside the roles society has set for her. Yes, Lily loves the life she was born into, but she also builds up a generous amount of resilience and gumption as she realizes that she can (to grab a cliché) make it on her own. Ms. Carey’s mastery of setting pulled you right into a time when even those well-off were affected by the war. Additionally, you will also salivate over the descriptions of mouth-watering meals.

I am not familiar with Ms. Carey’s work, but this book makes me want to check out some of her previous series. 

Thank you to the author, the publisher and Net Galley for an opportunity to read and review this novel.

A start of a great new series. 1942 New York -Lily a daughter of wealthy parents becomes a chef in a upscale restaurant again her mothers wishes. She meets Tom a fellow chef and they fall in love. Then comes war and tom is drafted. Lily finds herself and her ambitions and along with other women have to face losing their jobs when the war is over.

A moving story about a young woman, Lily Rose and her quest to become the top chef in a New York restaurant during WWII. I loved Lily's grit and determination! Women held down the home front during the war as this novel shows. The jobs they held and the victory gardens planted were only a small part of the effort made to support the troops. The class system as depicted in the story is appalling but accurate during this time period. I loved that Lily took the high ground which is a positive message for all. Highly recommended!

A great start to a series I really want to read.

Great characters and the leading lady is very interesting. She is denied her wish to work, to work in a restuarant during the war but she forges ahead and does it anyway. Times were different then but she seems so modern and forward thinking. I love reading about women like this.

The story is gripping and detailed but flows well and the setting of New York during the war is a new one for me.
Recommended!

Thank you to Bookouture and Net Galley for the chance to read and review this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
First, I really like the cover of this book-love the green dress. This is a great start to a new series by Ella Carey. The story takes place in New York in 1942. Lily Rose is working as a chef and has dreams of opening her own restaurant. She meets Tom Morelli, who is also a chef, at her job. They fall in love, but he is not considered a suitable mate for Lily because he is an immigrant. After Tom goes off to war, things change. He comes back with lots of problems related to the war. It was exciting to read what happens to Lily and Tom and their relationship as well as their relationship with their families. Ella Carey is one of my favorite historical fiction writers, and I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Highly recommend!

This book is a wonderful start to a new, promising series! Set in New York City, during WW II, it's a great story about change and opportunities. The main character, Lily Rose, is a daughter of wealthy milliners who has a dream of becoming the head chef in a prestigious restaurant. The men running the kitchen are being drafted to war, women are getting the opportunity to replace them in the workforce. As the war progresses, Lily's character sees the importance of rationing and victory gardening. She incorporates new ideas and recipes into the restaurant. As with any good story, there are romances - she has two suitors, one approved by her parents and an immigrant son she works with at the restaurant. Both are drafted and one goes MIA. As the war concludes and the menfolk return home - more changes in the kitchen are happening as the men re-take their previous positions. And suddenly, a large group of women are left jobless. Lily decides to do something about it and starts a new path herself.

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in return for my review.