Book review of "Against the Tide" by Elizabeth Camden

With the help of a friend, I discovered a great way to share my love of reading (especially inspirational historical romance) with other people.  Against the Tide is the second book I have had the pleasure of reviewing (in exchange for an honest review of the book) for Bethany House Publishers.  In this book, Elizabeth Camden combines romance and intrigue in the setting of post-civil war Boston.  Lydia Pallas is an orphan who has had to find her own way in the world.  Her affinity for languages helps her obtain a job in the male-dominated world of the US Navy.  It is her skill with languages that brings her to the attention of Alexander Banebridge (aka Bane).  Bane seeks Lydia's help as he tries to curb and ultimately stop mastermind of  illegal opium trade in the United States.  Bane fights his attraction to Lydia, believing that his previous life experiences leave him no choice but to spend his life alone on his quest to stop the opium trade.  He's afraid of the danger that his life could bring to any family that he might have in the future.  His faith in God guides him on his quest, as he tries to stop those who are destroying the lives of others.  Lydia, orphaned at a young age, wants to prove to Bane that their love is worth fighting for, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to show him that she belongs at his side.  She has fought hard to find security in her life, after growing up without any security at all.  She seeks security in every place but the place where true security can be found.  Little does Bane know, that his past, his present, and his future entertwine with Lydia's past, present, and future in ways that can only be described as the hand of God (through the writing of the author).  Lydia's journey has its ups and downs throughout the book.  Elizabeth Camden did not disappoint.  In fact, I found it hard to put down.  There is plenty of suspense and adventure in the book to keep the reader hooked as the story goes along.  I thought the author did an excellent job with the story line, the plot, and the characters.  I identified with Lydia, as she struggles to make her way, alone in a workforce dominated by men.  My heart ached with her, and the struggles that she faces throughout the book.  I also identified with Bane, and his belief that because of his past he is not able to pursue his love for Lydia.  This book wasted no time in capturing my attention and was able to hold my attention throughout the whole book.  I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a historical book with just the right blend of romance, intrigue, and suspense.