Friday, October 26

Audiobook Review: I, Eliza Hamilton by Susan Holloway Scott

Author: Susan Holloway Scott
Narrator: Saskia Maarleveld
Title: I, Eliza Hamilton
Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance
Pages: Audiobook
Published: 2017
Where I Got It: My shelf (Audible)

“Love is not easy with a man chosen by Fate for greatness . . .”

As the daughter of a respected general, Elizabeth Schuyler is accustomed to socializing with dignitaries and soldiers. But no visitor to her parents’ home has affected her so strongly as Alexander Hamilton, a charismatic, ambitious aide to George Washington. They marry quickly, and despite the tumult of the American Revolution, Eliza is confident in her brilliant husband and in her role as his helpmate. But it is in the aftermath of war, as Hamilton becomes one of the country’s most important figures, that she truly comes into her own.

In the new capital, Eliza becomes an adored member of society, respected for her fierce devotion to Hamilton as well as her grace. Behind closed doors, she astutely manages their expanding household, and assists her husband with his political writings. Yet some challenges are impossible to prepare for. Through public scandal, betrayal, personal heartbreak, and tragedy, she is tested again and again. In the end, it will be Eliza’s indomitable strength that makes her not only Hamilton’s most crucial ally in life, but his most loyal advocate after his death, determined to preserve his legacy while pursuing her own extraordinary path through the nation they helped shape together. 



Yet another Founding Father I knew little about. I knew of his accomplishments but not of his personal life. And who better to see this man than through the eyes of his wife? I couldn't resist checking this out. 

Now, Eliza and Alex met during the war. They were just friends and then it slowly became a love and romance. It was cute to see sensible Eliza lose her heart. I liked her a lot and I can relate to her in a lot of ways. I liked Alexander too but he always seemed so addicted to his work. Which is a good trait, but he was too proud. Too easy to offend. A trait that would cause his death. Not a spoiler since it is common knowledge that Alex would lose his life to a stupid duel. Men >_> 

I enjoyed this. It took a while to really get into it. Not sure if it was the story or the narration, but it took me a while to really get comfy with the story. Maybe it had to do with the fact I know how this romance ends? So sad. 

The narrator was good and I think she did a good job with the voices and the time periods. 

It makes me want to read more about the other Founding Fathers since I have learned so much from the last couple. 

The ending left me a little empty. I wanted more of a conclusion of the kids. I know a hair, but I wanted to know what happens to everyone else. I get the timeframe is only a few years down the road with Eliza writing down her journey and romance, but still... I wanted more. 

This was fun. Learned a lot and got to see Alex in a new light. I also really adored Eliza. She was fun to follow. Loved her. The ending left me wanting more and the beginning was a hair slow. The narrator did a good job once I got used to her voice. I'll give this 3 stars. 


2 comments:

Blodeuedd said...

Slow beginning, wanting more from the end, well good is still good :)

Carole Rae said...

B, yep. Sometimes it can have lots of issues, but still be good overall.