Shadows of the White City

Windy City, Book 2

By: Jocelyn Green

Narrated by: Leah Horowitz

The one thing Sylvie Townsend wants most is what she feared she was destined never to have - a family of her own. But taking in Polish immigrant Rose Dabrowski to raise and love quells those fears - until 17-year-old Rose goes missing at the World's Fair, and Sylvie's world unravels.

Brushed off by the authorities, Sylvie turns to her boarder, Kristof Bartok, for help. He is Rose's violin instructor and the concertmaster for the Columbian Exposition Orchestra, and his language skills are vital to helping Sylvie navigate the immigrant communities where their search leads.

From the glittering architecture of the fair to the dark houses of Chicago's poorest neighborhoods, they're taken on a search that points to Rose's long-lost family. Is Sylvie willing to let the girl go? And as Kristof and Sylvie grow closer, can she reconcile her craving for control with her yearning to belong?

©2021 Jocelyn Green (P)2021 Recorded Books

Mystery at Chicago Worlds Fair-enjoyed!

I enjoyed this story of Sylvie, sister to Meg, both in the first book. This can be read as stand-alone. This one takes place during the Chicago Worlds Fair of 1893. Mystery surrounds Sylvie and Rose, her adopted daughter. We also follow neighbor, Kristoff, who plays violin in the fair’s orchestra, and who cares for Sylvie. We learn a lot about life during those days and that era in Chicago’s history. Keeps you in suspense! The narrator is good.

Learning the Challenges of Letting Go

JWright
This story about the White City of 1893 Chicago is educational, descriptive, and sensitive. The author’s research is evident!
As I read, I had to search for illustrations of the various displays available at the fair. Also the references to specific classical music selections again led me to find the pieces so I would listen and have a better understanding of each work’s significance in the narrative.

The characters are well developed within the mores and pastimes of the period. After reading the first book of the Windy City Saga, I believe I enjoyed this second book more.

Intriguing historical romance.

The narrator did a good job with this story. I really liked the overall plot and the characters though it felt a little long pacing wise for me in a couple of spots. Overall, I enjoyed it and recommend it.

Fantastic Depth in Character and Location!

Wow! The historical detail and descriptions put me right in the middle of The Chicago World's Fair. I could see and feel everything the characters were going through.
Rose is a strong-willed, stubborn teenager longing for a connection to her past. Sylvie's heart and unconditional love for Rose shined throughout the story, especially the difficult times.
Kristof is one of the best hero's. He goes above and beyond to help Sylvie in her search for Rose. He also is unselfish when it comes to helping his gifted but careless brother.
Faith, trust, letting go are a big part of the journey Sylvie and Kristof must go through. Acceptance is another. I can't say more without spoilers. I will only say, this can, at times, be an emotional roller coaster but the ride is very much worth it.
I love Jocelyn Green's style of storytelling and look forward to more.
The narration is very well done!

Fetching Historical Fiction

This book intrigued me because I am a native Chicagoan. The settings color a picture of the city before my time that enable me to envision that lifetime. Seeing lives lived generations before our time work through their struggles, causes a reader to ponder the challenges in all periods of time. And to work through any changes and challenges with grace.