Jennifer Chiaverini

Presents a fictionalized account of the friendship between Mary Todd Lincoln and her dressmaker Elizabeth Keckley, a former slave.

A Novel

Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker

Briar's Reviews

A while back, I picked up a book by Jennifer Chiaverini. It was charming, sweet, and pretty easy to read. I somehow got the book for free, so I decided when the time was right, I'd buy another book by Jennifer. Time became right when I saw this stunning cover and I knew instantly... this was it.

Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker is a charming, historical read that spins a tale about Mary Todd Lincoln and her friendship with her seamstress, Elizabeth Keckley. Lizzie was a slave who gained a reputation for creating beautiful dresses. She worked hard and got herself an incredible job, slowly working her way up the rank to eventually being the seamstress for The First Lady.

This story follows Elizabeth, but crosses a lot of Mrs. Lincoln's life. It's a great tale of what could have been, and the author herself even says a fair bit was made up to tell the story she wanted to tell. While it might not be accurate, it still gave me a lot of interesting thoughts about the era and I've since been doing some research about Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln, their family, and their dressmaker. Why not? Isn't that what historical fiction should do? Be enjoyable and encourage us to learn about the history that influenced it?

The book wasn't exactly a home run for me. It was easy to read, but at times it drags n and becomes a little boring. I didn't mind since it was just a read to disappear into, but if I was more motivated... it wouldn't have worked. There is also a LOT of detail in this book, so if you're like me and reading it while you are utterly exhausted... be prepared to have to read sections over because this book is RICH in it's details. It's a real treasure, but not if you were overly exhausted like I was when I read this book.

There is a lot of sad in this book, so reader beware. My heart hurt many a times, but Jennifer Chiaverini crafts it beautifully and makes it a heartfelt story.

Overall, lovely story. I will eventually pick up another book by Jennifer. Any recommendations?

Three out of five stars.

I got this book from a goodreads giveaway. I was interested in reading something outside of my usual genres and remembered liking some historical fiction as a kid. This book really wasn't for me. I often found my self wondering how there could be so much of the book left when so much of the civil war had already happened. It was, from my perspective, a nice story and an okay, but somewhat dense, book. I suspect that for someone particularly interested in the era or the genre it would have been a great read.

Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker A Novel

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