Author: Jennifer Chiaverini
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: HarperCollins, 2021
Pages: 368
Rating: Recommend
Mary's shocking act followed legal proceedings arranged by her eldest and only surviving son that declared her legally insane. Although they have long been estranged, Elizabeth knows Mary's tenuous mental health has deteriorated through decades of trauma and loss. Yet is her suicide attempt the impulse of a deranged mind, or the desperate act of a sane woman terrified to be committed to an asylum? And - if her sisters can put past grievances aside - is their love powerful enough to save her?
Maternal Elizabeth, peacemaker Frances, envious Ann, and much adored Emilie had always turned to one another in times of joy and heartache, first as children, and later as young wives and mothers. But when Civil War erupted, the conflict that divided a nation shattered their family. The Todd sister's fates were bound to their husband's choices as some joined the Lincoln administration, others the Confederate Army.
Now, though discord and tragedy have strained their bonds, Elizabeth knows they must come together to help Mary in her most desperate hour.
Review: This is my second Jennifer Chiaverini novel this month. I'm trying to play catch up since she has become a prolific author and her subjects interest me.
My husband and I took our children to Springfield, Illinois a few years ago to visit Abraham Lincoln's Presidential Library and Home. Being a history nerd, I remember a lot of the places mentioned in the novel, most notably Lincoln's home which we toured, and Elizabeth Todd Edwards' home which we saw. These experiences made the novel come to life.
Later in the novel, there is much discussion about Mary Todd Lincoln's afflictions and her subsequent stay at an asylum. As I was reading, I wondered what a doctor in the 21st century would diagnosis. As it turns out, she may have had something called pernicious anemia, which you could read about here. Today it is treatable and certainly wouldn't upend someone's life the way it did Mary's.
While this novel reads a lot like a non-fiction biography instead of a historical fiction novel, I can't discredit the insight into Mary Todd Lincoln's family and background. It's an interesting read.
Other Jennifer Chiaverini Novels
Canary Girls
Mrs. Grant and Madame Jule
Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker
Switchboard Soldiers
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