Although this book was interesting, it was a frustrating read for me. First of all, I don\'t think the title is fitting. The storyline seemed to be more about Mrs. Lincoln and the political environment of the day. I had hoped to read more about the dressmaker\'s life. Don\'t get me wrong, the book did include some very interesting facts about her as well, but she wasn\'t the primary focus of the book. Mrs. Keckley was a remarkable woman, and I had hoped to learn more about her life than what the book portrayed.
Secondly, this novel left me with a negative view of Mrs. Lincoln. However, I understand that the author isn\'t responsible for how I feel about an actual person. I\'m just mentioning this because I became really frustrated with Mrs. Lincoln\'s behavior throughout the book.
Last of all, the book seemed a little dull in places. I was relieved when I had completed reading it.
Overall, I would be hesitant to recommend this book. While it was interesting and informative, it was also a bit boring in places. I think it would be a great read for someone who is interested in the politics of the day though.

Our club had a great discussion on this book regarding the two main characters as they were portrayed in this book compared with other accounts about Mary Todd Lincoln. We all agreed that we would recommend the book. It was well researched and really gave new insights into the Civil War as well as some of the politics of the day without being pedantic and scholarly.

I\'ve read so many Civil War books that just concentrate on the various battles, it was quite fascinating to stay in Washington while it was waged around us. Elizabeth was an amazing woman & I must say we all felt sorry in many ways for Mrs. Lincoln!