‘A New York Secret’ by Ella Carey is a historical fiction story set in World War Two. If I have an author that I feel can perfectly encapsulate the period in which she writes, it has to be Ella Carey.
Lily Rose is living her perfect life in New York, 1942. Wealthy parents and a dream job, she couldn’t ask for more. She finds herself drawn to the Sicilian community in Greenwich Village, partly due to the atmosphere there and mainly because of Tom Morelli, grandson of Sicilian immigrants and a chef where she works. They fall in love and spend their time dreaming together of delicious meals to get people through the tough times. The day arrives that Tom is called back to Italy and heartbroken, Lily turns to her parents but her mother is furious when she discovers about their relationship and gives her an ultimatum, give up her job and end the relationship or lose them and her inheritance for good. How will Lily deal with this harsh decision? Will she acquiesce or not? Only time will tell.
A New York Secret is slightly different to the books I have previously read by Ella Carey. This one shows us the high society of America in the 1940s. One which, as the war unfolds, finds it’s status, connections and wealth can’t protect them or anyone they love from the death and destruction of the war. Lily is a woman with her own mind and is the exact opposite of the flighty society women. She seems to have everything she could want with her perfect job and Tom. I really felt she deserved it all. Then everything falls apart and by the end of the war, there are more changes. Of course, the men return from the war and this is where the women aren’t needed anymore. I can understand the anger some felt at this. I wasn’t very happy either as I was reading the book!
If you, like me, love getting cosy with a book that transports you out of your life today and has the capability of making you feel you are with the characters in that said book, Ella Carey is an exceptional choice and this book is perfect! The first book in a great new series. I will need to read the next one soon.
Thanks to Sarah at Bookouture and NetGalley for the copy of the book for today’s review.
sharonbeyondthebooks.uk 