In this historical novel set amid World War I, readers gain a feel for how show-biz and military life go together. Broadway star Calla Connolly is entertaining troops in Charlotte, North Carolina, when she is taken ill by the Spanish Flu. While in the hospital, she overhears a military secret and becomes confined to camp after her recovery despite her desire to entertain troops at the front. While at the camp, she discovers new talent, makes new friends, falls in love, and discovers a new purpose for herself.

I had the opportunity to preview this book as a NetGalley audio advanced reader copy. The novel drew me in, especially because we see Calla rediscovering herself, both personally and professionally. Calla learns from those around her, helps to promote the talent she finds, and slowly her hatred of Colonel Jesse Erikson turns into a growing love. Readers will see Calla grow from her experiences and how she turns them into new opportunities, and not just for herself. We also see the slow burn romance grow between her and Jesse. When circumstances take a turn for the worst, Calla emerges from the turmoil to create something great. Overall, this novel was an emotional ride of self-discovery, new friendships, and redefining love. The narrator also did an excellent job conveying all this emotion throughout the novel.

First time reading this author and really enjoyed the pace and story line. During WWI, Camp Greene in Charlotte NC is not where up and coming performing star Calla Connelly wants to be. She wants to be in France, in the action, to honor her deceased fiancé. But when recovering from the Spanish flu, she overhears sensitive information and must remain at the camp. Joy Calloway has researched this book through soldier letters and we feel each uncertainty and patriotic duty. The main characters, Calla and Jesse, share sweet words and kisses but in uncertain times one never knows. Joy’s words, through the eyes of the soldiers and main characters tug at our heartstrings. The flow of the story and the twists were nice and spaced well. Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author.

I enjoy the pacing, plot, narration, and main characters of this book. Calla is a captivating performer and Camp Greene provides a digestible setting for a wartime novel. I do not prefer to read about the intimate aspects of characters' relationships. Though it was only loosely discussed, it was mentioned multiple times so I decided not to continue with the audiobook. Overall it is well written and engaging. I recommend to any fan of historical women's fiction not sensitive to high-level mentions of sexual encounters.

Special thanks to Harper Muse Audiobooks and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this audiobook. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

"The Star of Camp Greene" by @JoyCallaway and my heart is full! 🥰 This historical fiction dives into a WWI training camp and the vibrant story of a young woman finding her way. Callaway brings the era to life with such rich detail – I could practically hear the marching bands! 🎶
Our main character's journey of growth and finding her purpose was so engaging. While the story took its sweet time in places, the charming characters and fascinating historical setting totally won me over. It's a heartwarming read that offers a unique glimpse into the homefront during the Great War.

I love Joy Callaway books and her latest The Star of Csmp Greene is classic Joy. She can take a particular event or person in history and transform them into an amazing story. Her dialog is fun, her characters are all so well-defined and her research is impeccable!!!

Audio is amazing. Brittany Pressley is one of my favorite narrators and is perfect for this book!

Thank you netgalley and Harper Muse audio for the honor to read and review this book!,

An intriguing story about a widow who accidentally becomes a spy during the war. It was sad, thoughtful, and interesting being set in Charlotte, NC. I live here and loved seeing the city set in a story like this. The narrator was a joy to listen to as well.

I was so excited to get this ARC. I come from a long line of military and following Calla Connolly and her impact with the soldiers at Camp Greene.
Camp Greene was part of Charlotte, NC in 1918. (Definitely read the author notes) Calla finds herself touring American training camps, hoping to get to the front lines in honor of her fiancé. While at Camp Greene she gets the Spanish flu. She finds her signing talents helping soldiers. Since she is now confined to the camp, her former rival gets to continue her tour.
She finds love and is entrusted with a secret which she knows will change several lives.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and Calla’s journey. I am familiar with USO tours and I know how if lifted the spirits of so many in harms way for a few minutes or hours.