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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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 fax8dade 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.
I have read several of Ms. Camden’s books and have enjoyed them. I just couldn’t get involved in this book. I really can’t give a good reason. I just didn’t grab my attention. I would read it for awhile, put it down and read another book, and then come back to it. Other reviewers seemed to enjoy it. So may it is just me.
I was given this book by Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
I am so in awe of Elizabeth Camden’s ability to keep readers completely immersed in historical fiction and A Gilded Lady is the perfect example of her talent. It’s very apparent that the author extensively researched these facts and I assure you…fans of historical fiction will absolutely relish this book! This story, however, offers so much more than just history. Family secrets, divided loyalties, treason, and conspiracy are all featured in this fictional story, and then, there are the very human feelings of Caroline Delacroix and Secret Service agent Nathaniel Trask. Will Nathaniel overcome his feelings of guilt and failure in his protection of President McKinley? Can two people as different as Caroline and Nathaniel find a common meeting ground and perhaps, discover love? Does Nathaniel’s evident faith encourage Caroline to seek her own walk with God?
This is the second book in the Hope and Glory series and I am eagerly looking forward to the series conclusion that is scheduled to release in 2021. I highly recommend A Gilded Lady for all who enjoy historical Christian fiction.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was in no way influenced to write a favorable review. These are my honest thoughts.
My full review can be found here https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot.com/2020/07/a-gilded-lady-hope-glory-2-by-elizabeth.htm
I don’t give out a lot of five stars, but there are the books that totally deserve them. This is one of those reads. I savored every page of this read, digesting, and lingering on the words. The main character is one that you can struggle to like, but you come to not only like her, but love and understand her. Her struggles become your own as you experience this piece in American history set in the White house. I can’t recommend this author and her books enough. You will learn, be encouraged and inspired when you read this book.
I obtained this book from the publisher. The opinions contained herein are my own.
A Gilded Lady by Elizabeth Camden is book two in her Hope and Glory series. We met Caroline Delacroix in the first book, The Spice King, when her brother came under suspicion of being a traitor. Now, with another brother in a Cuban prison, Caroline is desperate to hang on to her job as the First Lady’s secretary in hopes of securing a presidential pardon for him.
Nathaniel Trask likes working for the secret service. In the counterfeit division. But when he’s asked to create a security plan for the President’s protection, he tries, unsuccessfully, to decline. He’s the best at his job, a master at spotting the counterfeit, and the perfect person to head the President’s security detail.
President McKinley’s time in office was a crux in the expectations and responsibilities required of the secret service. He served before the secret service had the protocols we are familiar with today. For example, there was no budget to offer protection to his family, including his wife. In this book, Nathaniel aimed to change that.
However, as Nathaniel’s strict ways come in direct opposition to Caroline’s purposes, the sparks fly. And not just the angry kind. “Listening” to these two fight was one of the most entertaining parts of the book! Especially later in the book. On a train. I won’t spoil it because it’s just so perfect it made me gasp out loud. Best scene in the book!
In The Spice King, I wasn’t fond of Caroline, so I was curious about how she would appear in this book. Seeing her struggles and hearing her thoughts definitely changed my opinion of her. Plus Nathaniel was the perfect balance to her rebellious ways.
I highly recommend reading The Gilded Lady. It stands alone just fine, but to get the full depth of Caroline’s motivations, you’ll want to read The Spice King first. And, now I’m even more excited for book three: The Prince of Spies, releasing in 2021. I can’t wait!
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I received this book free from NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers in order to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This was quite an exciting read. I really enjoyed the story line and the up close and personal look at life in the White House and how the protection of the President was evolving during the Presidency of McKinley. Caroline was a lovely character and Nathaniel was a perfect match for her. Luke’s story was exciting and I am really looking forward to his story. All in all, this book was a fantastic read!
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I enjoyed getting to read more of the Delacroix siblings. It was interesting to see the innerworkings of security of the day. Also, getting a glimpse into real historical figures in a fictional way. The intrigue with Luke was interesting and I very much would like to read his story. I felt the H grew and I thought him great as a love interest. I felt like I was able to step back in time. I never really did warm up to Caroline so much. I found her often petty and deserving of the debutante, spoiled heiress stereotype. She grew some but a bit grudginly so it seemed. Especially, in regards to her brother’s wife. I can appreciate it would be hard though. I also felt in her budding relationship with the H she didn’t want to give up much ground so to speak but have the H do so. I did appreciate her backbone in some situations and her loyalty.
What a wonderful historical romance! I didn’t think there was any way I’d enjoy A Gilded Lady as much as The Spice King, the first book in this series, but I did!
This book follows Caroline Delacroix, the sister of the leading man from The Spice King. I enjoyed getting to know her better. She’s the personal secretary to Ida McKinley, the most disliked first lady in US history. Caroline was the perfect companion for Mrs. McKinley. She was respectful, but didn’t take any guff from her. Their friendship really showed a different side to Mrs. McKinley. Plus, knowing all of her struggles and health issues, it made me wonder if maybe she was just the most misunderstood first lady in US history.
Nathaniel Trask was a great guy. He was serious, a little buttoned-up at times, and a staunch rule follower, but his dedication was admirable. Did he take it a little too far sometimes? Yes, but he definitely had valid reasons why. The banter between him and Caroline was a lot of fun. You could tell there was something special between the two of them. They had great chemistry, but there were quite a few obstacles in their way.
I know I say this with every Elizabeth Camden book, but the historical details were amazing. I always learn so many interesting tidbits of history I never knew before. I love that!
If you’re a fan of historical romance, you’ll love A Gilded Lady. I highly, highly recommend it. I’m so excited for Luke’s story in book three! It can’t come out soon enough!
Excellent writing! Intriguing, adventurous and romantic. I loved the historical aspect! Another winner for Elizabeth Camden.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
With a stunning cover and a cast of colorful, multi-layered characters, this book swept me away to Washington, D.C. in 1900 and right into President McKinley’s administration. Caroline Delacroix is a courageous, independent, assertive heroine who also happens to be the secretary to First Lady Ida McKinley. When the new head of the president’s Secret Service team arrives, sparks fly. Nathaniel Trask is dedicated, job-oriented, and straight-forward as he devotes himself to making sure President McKinley is safe at all times. Can a relationship develop between these two?
Elizabeth Camden’s attention to historical detail and masterful character creation, as well as her intricate plot development, make this an intriguing, powerful look at this slice of American history. I love learning more about history while reading an absorbing story.
This is the second book in Camden’s Hope and Glory series and can be read alone, but do yourself a favor and read book one, The Spice King, first. I’m enjoying this series so much, and I’m anxiously awaiting the next book about Caroline’s twin brother, Luke. Bound for my keeper shelf, this will easily be on my list of favorite books for the year.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author and Bethany House Publishing. All opinions are my own.
I really got sucked into this story! I was excited to read about Caroline after book one. The snappy dialogue between her and Nathaniel was as good as I’d hoped. This author is fantastic with details regarding presidential life and behind the scenes goings on in Washington and politics. So much tension and sparks kept me on my toes wanting to root for the two and then wanting to slap each one over the head (Gibb’s style) many times! Such unique view point in a story and it made this a bookshelf keeper. Cannot wait to see what book 3 throws at us!
Move over Gray, Caroline is ready to tell her story! I adored Caroline. She’s spicy, very intelligent, and hides a tender heart. Things that capture her heart’s affection: her brothers (especially her twin), the First Lady, and now Nathaniel. She fiercely protects those she loves, and Nathaniel is about the learn that absolutely nothing will stop her when she is determined to succeed. Nathaniel is unmovable as well and the resulting chemistry is palpable and wonderful. I could not put the book down. Add in a good mix of espionage, conspiracy and history and an enthralling tale comes to life. I highly recommend this book! It is the second in a series and should be read in order to most fully appreciate the backstory.
I received a complimentary copy and all opinions expressed are my own and freely given.
If you enjoy historical novels set in the Gilded Age with political intrigue, drama, and strong characters then this is the book for you. We learn about the McKinley era, the secret service, and so much more that makes this story true to life. And of course there is romance, too.
Strong, well developed characters enrich this story, but that doesn’t mean you’ll like all of them.
A Gilded Lady is the second book in the Hope and Glory series. I strongly recommend reading The Spice King first, or you may be lost for awhile.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
I loved the first book in the series, but this book was even better with more suspense and a closer look at the inner workings of President McKinley’s presidency. Getting a glimpse into the first lady, Ida McKinley’s, life was quite interesting. She definitely was a recluse due to seizures and could often lose her temper over trivial matters. McKinley seemed very understanding and loving with her in private.
This book focuses on Caroline Delacroix, Ida’s social secretary, one of Gray Delacroix’s twin siblings. The male lead is Nathaniel Trask who is a secret service member assigned to the White House. The connection between these two opposites causes sparks to shoot even though they often don’t agree on things. The main minor character is Luke, Caroline’s twin, who has been arrested in Cuba for insurgency with the Cuban rebels and may be hung for treason to the US as they try to rebuild Cuba after the Spanish American war. With lots of hints that there may be more to Luke’s role than what is obvious, a nice suspense thread weaves throughout the storyline.
Camden does an excellent job of weaving the history of McKinley’s presidency throughout the plot without taking away from the other plot lines. I knew little about McKinley’s assassination and this story gave a clear picture of what actually happened.
Excellent book and I anxiously look forward to the last book in the series which will focus on Caroline’s twin, Luke.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
A Gilded Lady by Elizabeth Camden is the second book in the Hope and Glory series. Great story that features Caroline Delacroix, who is the personal assistant to the First Lady. In her work she has to deal with Nathaniel Trask a secret service agent, who doesn’t trust her but is also falling in love with her. There are many dangers to face in their personal and professional lives. There are secrets kept, learning to trust and to forgive others and self.
I love Ms. Camden’s book. The history of the era are well researched and her attention to details and the dialog draw you into the story and make you said to leave the character at the end of the book. And eager for the next book in the series.
I received this book from the Elizabeth Camden and Bethany House Publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
A Gilded Lady# by Elizabeth Camden is the second book in the Hope and Glory series. Elizabeth has won the Rita and Christy awards. Before she wrote books she was a librarian in small and large libraries. She writes historical fiction that takes place during the Gilded Age. The story takes place during the Gilded Age. The setting is Washington, D. C. The story takes place during President McKinley’s presidency. The book is well researched. The author uses true details to show the reader what life was like during his presidency. The characters and settings are well described. Thank you to the publisher, netgalley and the author for allowing me to read and review this well written book. I really liked the book. I liked learning about President McKinley’s presidency. The opinions are my own and the hope the book is successful.
A good solid read that gives the reader a peek behind the White House walls in gilded-age America. I enjoyed the often overwhelming look at all that went on behind the scenes in political pageantry, and the look at former security measures was amazing. The characters were such a fun couple as their differences caused sparks and eventually complimented each other. Well-paced and with a good dose of both romance and intrigue, this is one to add to your summer reading list. I look forward to Luke’s story!
[I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.]
Bestselling author Elizabeth Camden continues her new series, following the lives of three Delacroix siblings during the 1900s.
In A Gilded Lady, strong-willed but charming Caroline Delacroix has the challenge of being confidante, social secretary, and assistant in her role to the First Lady. Attracted to one another but also wary of one another, Caroline and Secret Service Agent Nathaniel Trask face political intrigue, adventure, and danger in their positions to President McKinley and his wife, who has a reputation of being a handful.
Elizabeth Camden fills her novels with well-researched historical details and events, while weaving a story filled with suspense and mystery. The faith element is minimal but evident, and the storytelling is excellent with strong, flawed characters and descriptive narratives.
Nathaniel and Caroline face ups and downs in their relationship, but it is a realistic and clean romance. Both are loyal to their employers — the McKinleys — and passionate about standing up for what they believe is right. Caroline hides a secret about her twin brother, Luke, which will cause problems in her relationship with Nathaniel, a rule follower.
Camden is a master at taking a period of time that is not as well-known to readers, and crafting a story that teaches the reader about the time, such as the presidency of William McKinley, and making it a fascinating read. Although it can be read as a standalone, reading The Spice King, the first book in the series, will give the reader the full backstory of the characters.
Recommended for school libraries and public libraries. Fans of Camden’s earlier books will look forward to the third book in this series, Prince of Spies, coming soon.
Carol R. Gehringer
Reviews of other books by Elizabeth Camden: A Dangerous Legacy, A Daring Venture, and A Desperate Hope, and The Spice King.
Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.
I love Elizabeth Camden’s novels with their unique and often personal glimpse of history. The Spice King, first book in her Hope of Glory series left me hungry for the next book and A Gilded Lady certainly did not disappoint. It is such a treat for each of the Delacroix siblings to be featured in a book of their own.
Sister Caroline is the featured sibling in A Gilded Lady. I will admit that I did not like her very much at first but like Nathaniel Trask, I was soon able to see past her outer façade to the loyal and caring person she often kept hidden from the public. Nathaniel was also a bit of a cold fish at first with his stiff, serious demeanor and his dedication to duty. What fun it was to observe the changes in each of them over the course of their relationship. Of course it was inevitable that the two would be thrown together and for some inexplicable reason find the love of their life in each other.
Along with a developing romance, readers are served a wonderful behind the scenes peek into life in the White House during the McKinley Presidency, especially how hard the staff works in order to keep things running smoothly and the difficulties involved in protecting the President and his family. The contrast between security during the McKinley era and the present day was amazing. Of course any book by Camden would not be complete without a bit of danger and/or intrigue to round it out. A Gilded Lady definitely met the criteria with several surprises along the way.
I am an admitted lover of book covers, especially those that are creative and well done. I was particularly impressed by the way the cover designer created the covers to fit together so well. You can get an idea by looking at the covers side by side at http://elizabethcamden.com/books-by-elizabeth-camden/. Then be sure to pick up copies of both books if you can. You will not be disappointed.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author through Bethany House. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
This book was fascinating! It transported me to another time and I loved it! It was so interesting to read about Caroline as the personal secretary of Ida McKinley. I loved reading about what the life of White House staff was like in the early 1900’s. I also enjoyed reading about the Secret Service and the security surrounding the president.
The tension between Caroline and Nathaniel was perfect. I thought their relationship was realistic which is something I really like in a book. I was inspired by Caroline and the strength and confidence of her character.
The only thing I didn’t like in the book was the added suspense at the end. I felt like a second storyline was introduced when I was ready for things to be resolved.
This is the second book in the series and although other characters from the first book are mentioned, I had no trouble reading this without reading the previous book.
In A Gilded Lady, Elizabeth Camden takes readers inside the White House through the eyes of the staff.
Caroline Delacroix is secretary to the first lady, and Nathaniel Trask has been tasked with the President’s security. And despite every effort to resist the draw to each other, these two are brought together repeatedly.
Camden has a unique way of presenting history to her readers, and A Gilded Lady is no exception. There’s another plus in this book. Caroline is not the most likable character in the previous book and her socialite status didn’t endear her to me in this one, I saw the compassion and intelligence behind the façade.
I am looking forward to Luke’s story and learning more about the relationship between Caroline and her twin brother.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.