Title: Alex & Eliza: A Love Story
Author: Melissa De La Cruz
Next Book in the Series: Love & War: An Alex and Eliza Story (Releases in April)
Genre: Young Adult Historical Fiction
Print: 368 pages
Rating: ★★★★★
Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion. I checked out a copy of this book from my local library. The comments in this review do not reflect the views of the author or the publisher.
Goodreads Synopsis:
1777. Albany, New York.
As battle cries of the American Revolution echo in the distance, servants flutter about preparing for one of New York society’s biggest events: the Schuylers’ grand ball. Descended from two of the oldest and most distinguished bloodlines in New York, the Schuylers are proud to be one of their fledgling country’s founding families, and even prouder still of their three daughters—Angelica, with her razor-sharp wit; Peggy, with her dazzling looks; and Eliza, whose beauty and charm rival that of both her sisters, though she’d rather be aiding the colonists’ cause than dressing up for some silly ball.
Still, she can barely contain her excitement when she hears of the arrival of one Alexander Hamilton, a mysterious, rakish young colonel and General George Washington’s right-hand man. Though Alex has arrived as the bearer of bad news for the Schuylers, he can’t believe his luck—as an orphan, and a bastard one at that—to be in such esteemed company. And when Alex and Eliza meet that fateful night, so begins an epic love story that would forever change the course of American history.
Final Thoughts:
The story of Eliza and Alex marks my first time reading a book written by this author, and I adored the writing style used. This book is my second historical fiction read of this year, and the author did a great job portraying the story of Eliz and Alex. I listened to this book on audio but will read the print version of the next in the series. I wanted to read this one since I am a part of a blog tour for the next book in the series.
I enjoyed the historical references throughout this novel. I loved that the author did her research before writing this book. I have a BA in History, and it is hard to find historical fictions that have somewhat relevant information in them. The time frame of the war, the challenges women on the home front faced, and the problems of men enlisting in the war were portrayed excellently in this book. The love story between Eliza and Alex was one that was remarkable. The interaction between each character enhanced the overall storyline. There were a lot of moments in this book that had me laughing. I especially loved the first part of the novel when the Schuyler’s threw a party to marry of the three sisters. The eldest of the Schuyler sisters is a spunky, determined, level-headed, older sister who feels she must marry well. Each daughter must find a suitable mate that will not only enhance the already established family name but also financially support the daughter. Alex does not fit any of these requirements. He struggles to earn the trust of one Schuyler sister in particular while trying to help in the war efforts instead of just being General Washington’s clerk. Alex struggles to find his place in the world, struggles to fight for the one he loves, and struggles to know his worth. Is love worth more than power? Does love truly conquer all?
Overall, I thought the author did an excellent job with this novel. She focused on the struggles intellectual women faced during the time of American Independence. Women were meant to be seen but not heard. Eliza is an intelligent woman who wants to contribute to the war effort like her aunt. She wants to feel as though she is making a difference. She isn’t worried about clothing or class, but she struggles to follow her heart in a time where her parents make the final decision. Eliza and Alex both grow together in this novel, and the character development of each is impeccable. This story is filled with love, loss, bravery, honor, and strength. I recommend this book to anyone interested in a young adult historical fiction.
What is your favorite historical fiction?
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