What I’m Reading: Mrs. Lincoln’s Sisters

Several months ago I went to my online library and saw a couple of books I was interested in so I put them on the waitlist.  I try really hard to keep that waitlist full as the time to wait is seriously, a long time.

It finally came to my turn to listen to Mrs. Lincoln’s Sisters by Jennifer Chiaverini.  You all might know this author as she writes my quilting themed books.  Her writings in the past few years have been based on historical fiction and I couldn’t be happier.

I’ve heard things about Mary Todd Lincoln and accusations about her mental health but I never knew a timeline of it.  I knew she had lost a son but didn’t realize she lost several and all in a close time period.

I never knew about her growing up years and her family.  I, of course, know this is a work of fiction, but facts like that are all followed by historical fiction writers and if something is changed for story sake it is always noted in the author’s notes at the end of the story.  I found it all very interesting and enjoyed listening to the book very much.

Listening helped me realize that although covid really stinks…it’s nothing compared to the life someone like Mary Todd Lincoln lived through.

Here is what Amazon has to say:
“In May 1875, Elizabeth Todd Edwards reels from the news that her younger sister Mary, former First Lady and widow of President Abraham Lincoln, has attempted suicide. 

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 truly 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 sisters’ fates were bound to their husbands’ 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 as sisters to help Mary in her most desperate hour. ”

Amazon readers give the book 4.5 stars.  I am going to agree.  I do highly recommend this book.  I liked the story and loved learning more about history.  I will be looking for and listening to more of her books.  Happily I checked and Hoopla has lots more.

You can find the book HERE on Amazon if you are interested.