Caroline Delacroix is at the pinnacle of Washington high society in her role as secretary to the first lady of the United States. But beneath the facade of her beauty, glamorous wardrobe, and dazzling personality, she’s hiding a terrible secret. If she cannot untangle a web of foreign espionage, her brother will face execution for treason. Nathaniel Trask is the newly appointed head of the … president’s Secret Service team. He is immediately suspicious of Caroline despite his overwhelming attraction to her quick wit and undeniable charm. Desperate to keep the president protected, Nathaniel must battle to keep his focus fully on his job as the threat to the president rises. Amid the glamorous pageantry of Gilded Age Washington, DC, Caroline and Nathaniel will face adventure, danger, and heartbreak in a race against time that will span the continent and the depth of human emotion.
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This is a romance set in the 1900/1901 Gilded Age backdrop of the McKinley administration.
This second book in the Hope and Glory series by Elizabeth Camden follows Caroline Delacroix as she navigates the job of secretary to a somewhat difficult First Lady, Ida McKinley. Ms. Camden takes us behind the scenes of the White House and its workings. Not only does Caroline have to juggle her consuming responsibilities with some political intrigue involving one of her brothers, but she has to weigh her feelings for the head of security, Nathaniel Trask.
Nathaniel has a lot on his shoulders protecting the President of the United States and he must not let the distraction of Caroline jeopardize his mission. Yet they can’t deny that they rely on one another for support in their respective jobs. When things look bleak, Caroline counsels Nathaniel: “You are unconditionally loved. Unconditionally forgiven. You are a child of God, deserving of more credit than you have given yourself. None of us are perfect. We stumble and fall and make mistakes time and again, but we can’t wallow in failure. Someday we have to accept God’s grace to stand up and try again.”
Not only is this an interesting slice of history, this book informs and encourages us to see ourselves as God sees us.
The cover of this novel is sumptuous and intriguing, for you can glimpse the profile of brother Gray in the mirror. I have seen the cover for the third book Prince of Spies and that cover also fits perfectly. I cannot wait for the story of twin brother, Luke.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
A Gilded Lady by Elizabeth Camden takes readers back to the early twentieth century in Washington, D.C. where President William McKinley is running for his second term. Caroline Delacroix is the personal secretary to Mrs. Ida McKinley. Caroline has worked to make herself indispensable because she needs to ask President McKinley a large favor. Nathaniel Trask is an agent with the Secret Service. His new assignment is design and implement a security system for the White House plus the protection of the man who occupies the oval office. Nathaniel is distrustful of Caroline especially when he learns what her twin brother, Luke has done and where he is currently residing. Nathaniel finds it difficult to remain distant with Caroline when he is attracted to her and enjoys spending time in her company. Nathaniel needs to remain vigilant during these tumultuous times if he is to keep President McKinley alive. He soon finds himself working with Caroline to protect President McKinley and his wife. A Gilded Lady is the 2nd novel in Hope and Glory series. While this historical novel can be read on its own, I recommend reading The Spice King first. Hope and Glory focuses on Gray, Caroline, and Luke Delacroix. The Spice King featured Gray with A Gilded Lady focuses on Caroline. I thought A Gilded Lady is well-written with complex characters. Caroline is a fashionable woman who comes from a wealthy family. I was happy to see that she has matured since The Spice King. Caroline was hired to improve Ida McKinley’s reputation and help her with her numerous social engagement (prevent faux pas). Caroline is a strong woman who is determined to help her twin brother, Luke. Nathaniel is a man who follows the rules, does not drink alcohol, and notices every detail. He is the perfect person for the job at the White House. Nathaniel lost someone close to him many years ago who he was to protect. It continues to disturb him causing nightmares. While Nathaniel is a rule follower, Caroline believes that rules were meant to be broken. They are a perfect pair as they balance each other. The romance builds slowly throughout the book which I like. Caroline’s faith has developed and expresses it openly especially with Nathaniel. The pair pray for support when they need it. The author mixed fictional and real historical figures beautifully into A Gilded Lady along with new inventions, current fashion trends, and historical events. A Gilded Lady blends strong characters with action, intrigue, drama, and romance into one engaging story.
I have been looking forward to reading this book for a couple of reasons, first I loved the first book in the series, The Spice King but most of all it’s because I absolutely love anything written by Ms. Camden. Reconnecting with the Delacroix was much better than I had anticipated and I loved each and every moment I spent with this entertaining family and the exciting lives they lived.
Caroline Delacroix is the secretary to Ida McKinley, who I knew very little about until I started reading this novel. As first lady of the United States, Ida was pretty demanding but given the circumstances of her health it was understandable. Caroline is a strong, intelligent, energetic young woman who meets any challenge head on and she has many challenges not only in the White House but in her personal life. Speaking of her personal life she is doing everything she can to help her twin brother Luke when she’s faced with yet another challenge. Nathaniel Trask is the new head of security and he needs to keep track of everyone and everything going on around President McKinley.
This does not set well with Caroline which leads to friction and some clever dialog between her and Nathaniel. Rich in history, with a lot of intrigue, a wonderful romance and delightful characters made this one of my favorite books this year. It’s going to be hard to wait until the next book is released but I can reread the first two books in the series while I wait. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
I loved returning to the world of the Hope and Glory series by Elizabeth Camden in the second installment: A Gilded Lady. This book follows Caroline Delacroix, secretary to the First Lady of the United States and sister of grouchy Gray Delacroix, my favorite character from the first book. Caroline is classy, poised, and just a bit mischievous. Which was perfect, considering the main man in this book: secret service agent, Nathaniel Trask.
In Nathaniel, Camden has created yet another straight-laced, stick in the mud male character and I’m totally here for it! I love the contrast between Nathaniel and Caroline. Also, watching Caroline ruffle Nathaniel’s feathers is delightful. Yet, despite his serious demeanor, Nathaniel has a heart ready to love and an amazing sense of loyalty.
Beyond these wonderful main characters, I love this book for its setting and Camden’s incredible ability to bring Washington DC during the time of President McKinley to life. If you love historical romance, you need to read this series.
(3.5 / 5)
Caroline Delacroix’s job isn’t an easy one, as secretary to a difficult first lady, but it’s an important one. Being at Ida McKinley’s beck and call is the least Caroline can do if it means she might be able to secure a presidential pardon for her twin brother. Luke is in prison in Cuba, charged with treason, and Caroline will do anything she can to help him. Unfortunately, this puts her at odds with the newly appointed head of security for the president, Nathaniel Trask. Though he’s taken by Caroline’s wit and beauty, he can’t trust the sister of a traitor to the country.
I liked both of the main characters in this book, and I really liked reading the fictionalized history of President and Mrs. McKinley at this time of his presidency. It was interesting to go along on their cross-country train tour. I also enjoyed the continuation of the story of Luke in prison in Cuba that began in the first book in this series. The story overall was good, but I didn’t find it as engaging as the first book in the series. I also had some issues along the way that brought the rating down for me.
The first thing that bothered me was that certain events in this story didn’t seem to match up well with the previous book. There’s some overlap in time, though it’s a bit difficult to follow, because time passes in jumps now and then in this book. Still, there’s a scene in the previous book that involves both MCs in this book, and the timing of how things are discovered in this book just don’t mesh with that scene. I kept trying to figure out how the two stories lined up, timing-wise, and it was distracting. I also noticed some inconsistencies in Luke’s behavior later in the book that I can’t explain without spoiling things.
The dialog continues to be fairly modern in this series, but I’m not personally bothered by it. After reading the first book, I thought the story of Luke that began there would encompass the entire series, the third then focusing on him, but just from the synopsis of the third book, one can see that’s not the case. My initial desire to read this entire trilogy is a little diminished by the way his story arc played out in this book, but I still want to read his story. This book may have been a little bit of a let-down to me after how much I loved the first one, but I have a feeling most of it is personal preference and that other fans of Christian or historical romance will still enjoy it.
Will circumstances drive them apart?
OK, can I just start off with a confession? Good. I almost was not looking forward to reading A Gilded Lady. There, it’s out! As much as I enjoy Elizabeth Camden’s books and as much as I loved the first book in the Hope And Glory series, I just did NOT like Caroline Delacroix in The Spice King. My opinion now that I’ve finished A Gilded Lady? Well, I still think that Caroline is spoiled and demanding but she really grew on me in a way I never expected.
One of the things I love most about an Elizabeth Camden book is just how much I learn about history. She blends entertaining fiction with historical fact so skillfully that you can’t help but be excited by the tiny details and what you might learn on the next page. When I started this book I did have vague knowledge of President McKinley’s trip across the US and I knew that he was assassinated while in office, but that’s about it. But there was so much more to know, about the president and his wife, about the Secret Service, about Washington D.C., and all sorts of fascinating things!
I am really getting into the Hope And Glory series, each story has been fascinating and thought-provoking, and I absolutely can’t wait for the next book so I can finally find out the answers to the overarching storyline of the mysterious third Delacroix sibling. If you like historical romance haven’t read A Gilded Lady yet I would definitely recommend adding it, and the rest of Elizabeth Camden’s wonderful Hope And Glory series, to your TBR list…
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
The Gilded Lady is the second book in the Hope and Glory series by Elizabeth Camden.
Caroline Delacroix is the secretary to the First Lady and spends her days planning parties, shopping, and putting up with the tantrums from the First Lady in the hope the President will pardon her twin brother for treason. Then Caroline meets Nathaniel Trask, the new head of security, and a rule follower.
Caroline’s rule breaking attitude collides with Nathaniel’s rule following and causes a love/hate relationship.
This dynamic is what kept me reading to the end. Miss Camden did a great job at keeping me on my toes wondering how Caroline and Nathaniel’s relationship would turn out. I look forward to reading the third book and how Caroline’s twin brother, Luke, story unfolds.
A great blend of a swiftly moving plot and a well-researched historical setting, the titular character is not to be missed. Probably one of the best heroines of Christian fiction I’ve read recently.
Fantastic historical romance! I couldn’t decide which I enjoyed more – the romance and interpersonal relationships, or the fascinating historical details weaved into the story. I loved Caroline’s story and seeing the inner workings of political society at the time, and the romance with her and Nathaniel had me laughing and smiling.
Highly recommend this read to anyone who enjoys sweet historical romance! Can’t wait for Luke’s story next!
The White House in 1900. Treason. Security risks. A thrilling tale of politics at the beginning of that century. Lovely characters- strong and personable. A wonderfully woven tale that elaborates on facts with a side theme of fiction.
Caroline Delacroix is much more more than a personal secretary to the First Lady of the United States. Yes, she can plan events; yes, she can calm Ida McKinley when she is having emotional episodes, but she is much more than those things. She is a loving sister, a confidant, and is looking for a way to free her brother from a political prison in Cuba with President McKinley’s possible assistance.
I admired Caroline’s willingness to put aside her pride and own personal plans, to suffer ill treatment from the First Lady, and to be at her beck and call. She changes from a privileged socialite to a more compassionate and forgiving young lady.
This is the second book in the Hope and Glory series with the third book soon to be released. Elizabeth Camden continues to write historical fiction in a compelling fashion, adding romance and suspense as masterfully as ever. I highly recommend this book!
An excellent addition to the series! I love Elizabeth Camden’s attention to historical detail. It doesn’t even feel like I’m reading historical fiction. Instead, it feels like I’m living among her characters in that time. What an awesome gift.
The development between Nathaniel and Caroline felt nice and slow, like a good simmer rather than an explosive firework. I loved their dynamic, how they played off of each other. And I loved learning more about Caroline’s mysterious brother, Luke! I’m looking forward to his story.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All expressed opinions belong to me.
I was surprised that I couldn’t put it down. President McKinley (Pres of US 1897-1901) was a character and because of our turbulent government right now it really struck me about the inner workings of government more than a hundred years ago. But Elizabeth Camden’s research and understanding is impressive. She writes in a page-turning fashion. Her characters are real, popping off the page right into my lap. Thanks for a great read Ms. Camden.
I love, love, love Elizabeth Camden’s books! Elizabeth Camden is one of those authors whose books I’d recommend before I’ve even read them. Every new book she releases is even better than her last and this book is no exception. I’m not usually one for politics but I found the setting for this story very fascinating. Opposites-attract is not my favourite storyline but I loved the back and forth between Nathaniel and Caroline, the chemistry is so well written you can almost feel it! It goes without saying (but I’m going to say it anyway), I highly recommend this book!
I almost didn’t read this novel, and that would have been my loss because it was excellent. I didn’t find the monochrome cover particularly appealing, and I’m somewhat tired of reading about the lifestyles of the privileged in the Gilded Age (the 1890’s aka the late Victorian era).
So what interested me about A Gilded Lady? Simple. Caroline Delacroix is the secretary to the First Lady of the United States, and the promise of a glimpse inside the White House of 1900 was enough to hook me. I have been consistently impressed with Elizabeth Camden’s ability to weave a compelling romance around a combination of a little-known historical fact and a heroine with an unusual occupation.
And I was not disappointed. Caroline works for Ida Garfield, a First Lady with a temper who suffered from epilepsy and probably depression, a result of losing both her daughters. Caroline basically runs her life, organising social events from a simple morning tea to an inaguration ball. She will do anything to maintain her role because her twin brother, Luke, has been jailed in Cuba for treason, and Caroline believes a presidential pardon is his only hope.
Life is not made easier by Nathaniel Trask, the new White House head of security, appointed after the assassination of the king of Italy. (Those familiar with US history will see the irony, as they will know what happens.) Caroline is attracted to him, but obviously can’t do anything about that without giving up on her brother.
So what did I like about A Guilded Lady? I liked the inside look at the historical White House (I was less impressed by the cost of Ida McKinley’s ball dress—$8,000 is astronomical now. How much was it in 1900?) I liked Caroline, who was a lot more intelligent and practical than the heroines in most Guilded Age novels I’ve read. I liked the compelling yet understated developing relationship between Caroline and Nathaniel, and the equally compelling yet understated faith aspect.
In fact, I enjoyed the novel so much I then bought and read The Spice King, the first novel in the Hope and Glory series (and one I had discounted because of the uninteresting monochrome cover). It was equally enjoyable, although there are probably advantages in reading The Spice King first …
Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
I absolutely adored this story, more than The Spice King, actually. Caroline was a combination of class, compassion, and courage. In many ways, Nathaniel was single-minded, highly competent, and driven.
An added bonus was the historical tidbits regarding the McKinleys and the administration. Of course, I knew of the assassination, but not of the couple’s history and Ida McKinley’s issues. So, I did a little digging on the side. That’s why I enjoy Ms. Camden’s books. Her topics instill a desire to know more.
Nathaniel Trask has been asked to oversee security for President McKinley during a campaign train trip with many stops and public appearances. Nathan takes his job very seriously and very personally. He institutes many new rules and regulations regarding who and when people can come in contact with the President. In some circles, he isn’t very popular. He also feels it comes under his responsibilities to keep Mrs. McKinley safe. As Caroline Delacroix is her personal secretary/assistant, Nathan interacts with her frequently to arrange security measures.
Caroline is a wealthy woman with a secret. Her twin brother has been arrested for treason and is being held in jail in a foreign country. If anyone finds out, her job that she loves will be history and many people in high places will be asking the authorities to bring him to trial in the U.S. where traitors are sentenced to a life in prison or worse. Caroline find’s Nathan attractive but very reserved. She and he trade witty remarks and some barbed comments, but will a romance develop? Nathan is very focused on his job and after the train trip has been promised a return to his former job. Caroline loves her job, but if President McKinley isn’t re-elected, she will be out of a job and face an uncertain future.
I am a big fan of Elizabeth Camden and have read most of her books. This one, however, fell flat in the romance portion of the story. There was very little romance. Nathan is too wrapped up in his job to pay much attention to Caroline, and she seemed to wait around for him to notice her attraction to him. They just didn’t seem like much of a couple and not meant for a romantic future in my opinion. Also, Caroline’s faith made sporadic appearances and seemed a bit shallow. I did enjoy the historical aspect of the story. The inside look at how the McKinleys and their staff lived while he was President was so interesting. I also liked the character development of Caroline’s brother, Luke, and his storyline. I can’t wait to read about him in book three of the series, The Prince of Spies!
Elizabeth Cambden has become one of my favorite authors, and this book was right up there! It takes place in Washington, D.C. during the presidency of McKinley, with the two main characters being the assistant to the moody and unpredictable first lady and the head of security at the White House. There is a sub plot of Caroline’s twin brother in a Cuban jail charged with being a traitor. There is no easy answer to any of the problems. Good book!
Camden really knows her history. In fact when a tragic turn of events appears in this story I was tempted to check on wikipedia to see what would happen. I’m glad I didn’t because it would have spoiled the story line for me. Readers will love this telling. Suggest you read The Spice King first. It will enhance your reading experience.
Every scene in the book captivated me because of the historical insights and the wonderful way I was brought into the characters’ thoughts and desires. I have loved each of Elizabeth Camden’s books, and this story is no exception. I’m happily anticipating another enjoyable adventure when Luke’s story comes out.