Veiled in Smoke

Christy Award–winner Green (Between Two Shores) sets this tumultuous, affecting tale against the backdrop of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Meg Townsend’s father, Stephen, hasn’t been the same since he was released from a prison camp during the Civil War. He patrols their roof, determined to protect his family from dangers that only exist in his mind. Hiram Sloane is Stephen’s only friend, who also acts as a benevolent uncle to Meg and her sister, Sylvie. When the fire strikes, the family’s home and bookstore are destroyed, Meg’s hands get badly burned, and Hiram is found murdered and Stephen is charged with the crime. Meg is devastated when her father is committed to an asylum, where he is diagnosed with “Soldier’s Heart” (today known as PTSD). Soon Meg enlists the help of Chicago Tribune reporter Nate Pierce to help her discover the truth about her father’s involvement in Hiram’s murder. Meanwhile, Sylvie develops feelings for Hiram’s grandnephew Jasper Davenport, who shows the suddenly homeless sisters nothing but kindness. As Nate and Meg become closer and Jasper appears to be hiding a dark past, Green engagingly weaves subtle faith elements into the mystery and romance. Fans of Lisa Wingate will enjoy this. (Jan.)