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deannah's review
3.0
A very interesting look into McKinley's presidency, including Ida McKinley. Again, wasn't completely sold on the main relationship. But the historical aspect of this novel was great as well as a decently compelling plot line. Like the first book, I feel like the story would be stronger without the actual quoting of scripture and moralizing. However, it was kept to a minimum which I appreciate.
carbs_make_me_happy's review
adventurous
hopeful
informative
inspiring
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
gabriellemeyer's review
5.0
Another stunning novel by Elizabeth Camden! I just adore this series. Not only do I love Washington, D.C. and all it’s amazing history, but this is my favorite time period in American history, as well. I always learn so much! This story gets us up close and personal in the William McKinley White House and takes us on cross-country tour of America in 1901. I love Camden’s strong, intelligent heroines, and brave, strong heroes. Each character is so unique and the plots are like none others. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait for the third in this series.
giselle_reads's review
5.0
"A Gilded Lady" did not disappoint as Camden's sequel in the Hope and Glory series where mystery and political intrigue loom in Washington at the fin de siècle. Caroline's life drastically changes course throughout the novel, effectively holding me spellbound and always on the edge of my seat expecting another plot twist.
Camden's sequel pairs beautifully with her first book in the Hope and Glory series with a balanced amount of action, romance, and faith. Even as a history graduate, I had little knowledge of the presidency in America at the turn of the century, and Camden's newest release prompted me to further research such a politically charged period in Washington. Both Caroline and Nathaniel's character development was unrivalled as the two fought to ascertain their own place in life and Camden's addition of other characters from her previous book provide a vastly entertaining and enthralling narrative.
Overall, Camden's second novel in her series is set to suck readers in with complex character development, historical accuracy, and vibrant descriptions. I would have liked Caroline to interact more with Annabelle, but this complex relationship might have drawn the focus away from the former's own narrative and experiences within her own realm, including that of Luke and Nathaniel.
I anticipate Camden's further literary pursuits following this highly regarded release.
Camden's sequel pairs beautifully with her first book in the Hope and Glory series with a balanced amount of action, romance, and faith. Even as a history graduate, I had little knowledge of the presidency in America at the turn of the century, and Camden's newest release prompted me to further research such a politically charged period in Washington. Both Caroline and Nathaniel's character development was unrivalled as the two fought to ascertain their own place in life and Camden's addition of other characters from her previous book provide a vastly entertaining and enthralling narrative.
Overall, Camden's second novel in her series is set to suck readers in with complex character development, historical accuracy, and vibrant descriptions. I would have liked Caroline to interact more with Annabelle, but this complex relationship might have drawn the focus away from the former's own narrative and experiences within her own realm, including that of Luke and Nathaniel.
I anticipate Camden's further literary pursuits following this highly regarded release.
cmareads's review
4.0
Thanks to Bethany House for the free book. Why have I waited so long to finish this series? This is book 2, and I will be devouring book 3 next. I loved Caroline and Nathaniel’s story. Camden put so many details into Caroline’s job. I could feel the exhaustion, tension, and fun she had while being First Lady McKinley’s secretary. I also enjoyed the sweet relationship between her and her twin, Luke. His story starts in the first and continues here. Nathaniel and his role following ways were very familiar for me. I really liked how he wanted to do everything but the book. It was a great juxtaposition for this potential romance. This book is full of history, family, and finding a way.
amandasbookreview's review
5.0
*Que all the happiness* I just adore Elizabeth Camden’s books! And how did I miss the first book in her series Hope and Glory? I definitely intend to pick that book up soon! Thankfully, most of her books can be read as standalone novels. A Gilded Lady by Elizabeth Camden introduces Miss Caroline Delacroix, the secretary and assistant of sorts to the First Lady of the United States in the year 1900. The first lady is quite a handful and Caroline is the only one who can handle her. But she has a secret in her family, a dangerous one that could cost her brother his life. Now enter Nathaniel Trask. He is not head of security and it is lacking, but his uptight behavior is tested as his love for Caroline grows. He can’t afford to be distracted in his line of work.
What can I say? I loved this book. Caroline is SAUCY and I love her. She is unapologetically herself and I want her to be my best friend. Why is she a fictional character? Nathaniel is the talk, serious, brooding type—and I love him too. Their chemistry is fantastic and their passion for standing up for what it right is also wonderful.
BUT. Do not get me started on the historical detail. It is perfect!!! It is my absolutely favorite part. I love how social issues pertaining to the time are brought up and real-life historical figures are brought up. I am a fan of Theodore Roosevelt. This book is just an utter delight from beginning to end. 5 lovely stars for this lovely book!
What can I say? I loved this book. Caroline is SAUCY and I love her. She is unapologetically herself and I want her to be my best friend. Why is she a fictional character? Nathaniel is the talk, serious, brooding type—and I love him too. Their chemistry is fantastic and their passion for standing up for what it right is also wonderful.
BUT. Do not get me started on the historical detail. It is perfect!!! It is my absolutely favorite part. I love how social issues pertaining to the time are brought up and real-life historical figures are brought up. I am a fan of Theodore Roosevelt. This book is just an utter delight from beginning to end. 5 lovely stars for this lovely book!
nataliesboooks's review
3.0
The romance was a little instalove-y and I never really warmed to Nathaniel. He was quite stiff and didn’t have the charm of some of Camden’s other male leads. That being said, the historical time period was vivid, and I liked Caroline a lot, especially her relationship with First Lady Ida McKinley. I didn’t know a lot about Mrs. McKinley prior to reading this book, but she was an interesting character and I definitely want to do some more research to learn even more about her.
**read for book scavenger hunt: read two books - one fiction and one nonfiction - about the same subject/person (fiction - Ida McKinley)**
**read for book scavenger hunt: read two books - one fiction and one nonfiction - about the same subject/person (fiction - Ida McKinley)**
shhanson's review
4.0
A fun and interesting read that delved into parts of history I knew almost nothing about. It made me want to research First Lady McKinley after I finished reading.
I enjoyed the romance, mystery, and historical details in this story, as well as getting to know the lively character of Caroline Delacroix. We are introduced to her in the first book, The Spice King (also recommend reading that one if you haven't!). In that book she seems a little spoiled and shallow, so it was super interesting to see her strength and ingenuity in this second installment. Somehow the author did this without making her character inconsistent, which is impressive.
I would suggest reading the books in order, since some things might not make sense otherwise.
I enjoyed the romance, mystery, and historical details in this story, as well as getting to know the lively character of Caroline Delacroix. We are introduced to her in the first book, The Spice King (also recommend reading that one if you haven't!). In that book she seems a little spoiled and shallow, so it was super interesting to see her strength and ingenuity in this second installment. Somehow the author did this without making her character inconsistent, which is impressive.
I would suggest reading the books in order, since some things might not make sense otherwise.