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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What an interesting job Caroline Delacroix has! Secretary to the first lady of the United States. When Secret service agent Nathaniel Trask has to update security Caroline gives him trouble from the first day. The White House security for the first lady was generally up to her and not checking in with him began a relationship that was full of danger, suspense and a tragedy. I really enjoyed this up close and personal look inside the White House, it was interesting and enlightening
I really loved reading this book. I loved the history of how the secret service became better at protecting the presidents and their families. I loved Caroline and Nathaniel. It was interesting to read about the goings on behind the presidency. I have never read any books about this particular time period before. I hope to read more of this time period. I really enjoyed the twists and turns. I did not want to put this book down. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
The setting for this novel is lush and vibrant. I know very little about the presidency, especially McKinley’s, but I feel as if I learned a lot. From the incredible preparations for state dinners and inaugurations, to security techniques and precautions of the day, to the way the White House staff lived in dormitory-style housing, readers are transported to another time for sure. I found it both made me glad to live today and a bit nostalgic for what was a simpler time for most people.
Caroline is a strong female character, perhaps one of the strongest that I have recently read. She is determined, passionate, and even ruthless in her pursuit of what she wants, yet she maintains a femininity that keeps her relatable. I also liked how Nathaniel recognizes the differences between arrogance and her fierce determination; we all need someone who sees us as we truly are rather than painting us with a wide brush.
Nathaniel is a wounded hero and I loved him for it. Tragedy marks his life, and makes him reluctant to be responsible for others even as he is amazing at his job, limiting what he feels like he can do when others see potential for much greater assignments. I enjoyed being inside his head as he observed those around him, feeling like I was able to view history through a real set of eyes.
The romance between them is a slow build, but with hints of chemistry throughout. Mostly an opposites attract kind of relationship, the way these two interact make for compelling and gorgeous moments all along the way rather than making the reader wait until the end for a big emotional payoff. I enjoyed it all the way through.
With outstanding historical detail and a swoon-worthy romance, I highly recommend this novel for those who enjoy romance or who have an interest in the history of the US presidency. Fans of light suspense or family drama will also find this a worthwhile read, and it is a given that fans of Camden cannot pass this up. I do recommend reading the first book in the Hope and Glory series before this one as many minor threads carry through, but readers can understand the majority of the story without having done so.
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher but was under no obligation to post positive remarks. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
If Elizabeth Camden releases a new novel, I’m going to read it. In fact, I’m going to own it — in paperback, no less. As much as I love having an e-reader because of limited bookshelf space, there are certain authors I will always find space for.
All that being said, it was a given that I’d be looking forward to A Gilded Lady . And yet, I have to admit, I wasn’t looking forward to Caroline Delacroix being the main character. I wasn’t drawn to Caroline in The Spice King, the first book in the Hope and Glory series. She rubbed me the wrong way. So, as excited as I was about continuing the Delacroix story line, I honestly figured this would be one of my least favorite Elizabeth Camden books.
I was wrong. Not about Caroline. She still rubs me the wrong way, although there are certain aspects of her character that I admire. I love how she truly sees people, even seeing strength of character in someone as practical and “boring” as Nathaniel Trask. Often vibrant people like Caroline miss the depth of those of us who are more staid, but not Caroline. She sees past personality to the core of a person. And I greatly admire her ability to handle difficult personalities with grace and strength. Even with these character strengths, though, I’m overall not truly fond of her personality, nor do I connect well with her interests.
What I am fond of is the way she is brought to life. Her story is told so artfully that it doesn’t matter whether I like her or not. It matters that I could understand why people were drawn to her. And, somehow, it’s even obvious why Nathaniel would be drawn to her.
I could tell you that the story is captivating, which it is. I could say that, once again, Elizabeth Camden captures historical events in a way that keeps readers hooked even if they know what’s coming, which is also true. But, ultimately, my greatest endorsement of this book is that I was delightfully drawn into the life and story of a character I don’t really like. Elizabeth Camden reminds us that our diversity of personality is integral, and that reminds me just how beautiful it is to appreciate people I might not automatically click with.
Having never been one to enjoy “fluff” novels, written just to tell a cute love story, I tend to be drawn to stories that teach me or remind me to stop and think. A Gilded Lady accomplishes that — while also telling a fantastic story of loyalty, intrigue, and relationship.
Elizabeth Camden has been a great author from her very first novel (and yes, I have them all), but I can truly say that she gets better with every story. I’m still hooked! A Gilded Lady not only exceeded my expectations, but will definitely be a future reread!
Elizabeth Camden always seem to put me in a state of complete awe after each book of hers.
I loved this beautiful tour of the White House, White family and their staffs.
It was beautiful to really look into the personality of Caroline. The author introduced her briefly in book 1 The Spice King. She was truly a delight beneath the glam and glitter, she was a strong, independent, purpose driven and to a fault loyal. Caroline is the kind of person you’d want in your corner fighting your cause. I admired how she navigated the white house and her duties even with the difficult first lady with grace and poise. It was her fearlessness that endeared me to her especially with the uptight Nathaniel. He had a lot of baggage and put duty before everything else until he met the delightful and bubbly Caroline.
I loved how they came together to do great things. Their opposite characters complemented so well. They are my fictional power couple.
If you love stories of espionage, suspense, intrigue, life in the white house you’d love this book.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and this is my honest opinion.
Elizabeth Camden once again lures readers into her world of mystery and intrigue surrounding the White House in the early 20th century. The depth of her characters, with both flaws and strengths, brings them to life in such a way that one feels as if they were family…or at least you would recognize them on the street. They have such a variety of characteristics that readers could identify with at least one of the main characters in this series.
I enjoyed reading about President McKinley and his wife. I don’t recall ever reading about them outside of history books. How Caroline assists Mrs. McKinley in her difficult temperament reminds me a lot of how we teachers de-escalate students with emotional disorders. I understand how frustrating that can be, especially long-term.
Oh, and I still want to know about the artichokes!
P.S. The way the covers of Book 1 and Book 2 align make me even more excited to see Book 3!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Wonderful!
My rating is 4.5 stars
Set in the opulence of the White House during the Gilded Age, A Gilded Lady is a delightful tapestry of faith, romance, familial love, and political intrigue. Camden captured the sense of time and place beautifully and filled this story with rich emotions so tangible you feel them yourself.
Caroline was introduced to us in The Spice King. She is now firmly entrenched as the secretary and personal assistant to Ida McKinley. It was interesting to see how they treated her as both a daughter and almost a slave, albeit a valuable one. She worked seven days a week and, when needed, around the clock. Her duties covered everything from helping Ida pick outfits for events to planning teas and balls to helping to prevent her from saying things that would embarrass the country!
I was fascinated to learn about Ida McKinley, the general perception of her as such an abrasive woman, and about the medical condition that caused her so much pain and grief. It was also amazing to see her relationship with the Major, as she called her husband, William McKinley. I also loved the insider’s glimpse of day-to-day life in the McKinley White House.
Nathaniel was a contradiction. An amazing detective and student of human nature, working in the Secret Service, and yet a sensitive artist with a heart that was filled with remorse and guilt over events that had occurred over twenty years earlier. Despite knowing God in a personal way, he had trouble accepting that his sins were truly forgiven.
Caroline’s twin, Luke, was still in prison in Cuba for treason. Despite their older brother’s thoughts that Luke was guilty, Caroline is convinced he was not and fights diligently to get him pardoned. I just have to say, I can’t wait to learn more of Luke’s story! I just know that I am going to love him even more!!
Speaking of Luke, I loved the birthday gift that he gave to Caroline every year and the way he managed to still give it to her, despite being a thousand miles away. And in prison. And her in the very secure White House! He had taught Caroline courage when she was afraid of everything and had a heart of gold. Yeah, I can’t wait for his story!
Lovers of Historical fiction will not want to miss A Gilded Lady!
Read my review of A Gilded Lady by Elizabeth Camden at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
“You are unconditionally loved, unconditionally forgiven. You are a child of God…”
This is a terrific story set during a fascinating time period…also during a sad one. Most novels have a stronger pull for me, either from the characters or the plot. This one was a book in which I thought both equally well done. Probably because this book has so much of what I love about historical fiction. It has a real setting, real historical events, and real characters woven into the fictional novel so splendidly, and it is a wonderful read. Once again, Elizabeth Camden does not disappoint.
It was nice to revisit the characters in the previous book in the series, and it was wonderful to get to know the sister Caroline in this novel. She is passionate about her causes, loves her family, and handles herself amazingly well with the lady of the White House. Nathaniel is just as passionate about his career and justice. His softer side begins to show as the book progresses, and the circumstances around him help him realize what is truly important.
This book has wonderful characters, a remarkable plot, impressive suspense, and a heartfelt faith theme throughout the book. The faith theme is natural to the story and very well done. ( Thus the quote at the beginning.) A historical fiction I highly recommend.
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This story is set in the summer of 1900, primarily in the DC area, with Caroline employed as the First Lady’s assistant. First Lady McKinley is a difficult person to deal with at times, on top of her health issues, but Caroline loves her job. Nathaniel Trask love solving criminal schemes who’s given a job working on improving security at the White House. The story follows Caroline and Nathaniel’s work in the White House, along with a few others, including George C, Philip, John Wilkie, Sullivan, Holland, Gray, Annabelle and Luke. A story that pulls you in quickly, gives you glimpses of what life may have been like in the White House during that time along with Caroline’s spunk and Nathaniel’s by the book demeanor make for an engaging tale right up to the end.
A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Bethany House via NetGalley. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This novel surprised me with its depth and historical interest. I think of Elizabeth Camden ‘s books as light romances, but this was much more than that. The historical aspects surrounding protecting the president c.1900 were fascinating and I liked how the author really zoomed in on how important it is to live – and love – as if we might not be able to tomorrow.
The Hope and Glory series chronicles the lives of the Delacroix siblings Gray, Caroline, and Luke. A Gilded Lady, Book 2, is Caroline’s story which works well as a stand-alone. Set in Washington D.C. in 1900, this beautifully crafted story combines history, romance, faith, mystery, and intrigue into an enjoyable, page-turning narrative. The emotionally rich plot flows at a fitting pace, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. Caroline and Nathaniel are an engaging couple who in the beginning fight the romantic attraction; but fleeting, compassionate moments when they let their guard down are sweet and touching. The development of their relationship with its ups and downs is moving. The historical detail that Ms. Camden expertly infuses into the fictional narrative is amazing as well as informative. Spiritual truths are consistently and effectively conveyed throughout the narrative. I look forward to the third book in the series which is Luke’s story. This book is one of my favorites, and I highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this book in e-book form from the publisher via netgalley but am under no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
“Forever is now only today.”
Straight-laced and by-the-book, Detective Nathaniel Trask reluctantly accepts a three month appointment as the head of President William McKinley’s security team. Almost immediately, the glamorous and not-always-by-the-book Caroline Delacroix grabs his attention; her position as secretary to the First Lady giving her plenty of opportunity to rub Nathaniel the wrong way with her intentionally casual adherence to most of his strict protocols.
Caroline Delacroix is equally intrigued and annoyed by the President’s new Secret Service team leader at the White House. Nathaniel Trask’s unwavering commitment to details reminds her of Gray; her older brother, whom she adores. But the detective is also a constant reminder of her twin brother’s shortcomings, for Caroline suspects that if Nathaniel even heard a whisper about Luke’s treasonous behaviour, her coveted employment would be in jeopardy.
Readers will love this fascinating blend of national history, imaginative circumstances, and magnificent characters. Ultimately, Caroline and Nathaniel, through no fault of their own, must find a way to courageously endure both the joys and the sorrows of the McKinley presidency; illustrating how often life forces us to navigate dark corners. The Bible calls it a time to tear down and a time to build up. Thankfully, there’s always hope; a simple four letter word with deep, eternal significance. And in this story, love shows up as well.
“We can’t control the seasons in our lives, only how we respond to them.”
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I also purchased a copy. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
The Second instalment to the Hope and Glory Series, this book surpassed my expectations!
This is a standalone story, but I highly recommend to read the first: The Spice King, because there are many details that start from there and you will understand Caroline’s plight all the better. Through the first book I had a superficial impression of Caroline’s character. I though she was, in fact, superficial and vain. But no! Caroline has so much depth to her, she has a heart of gold, a compassionate heart, a strong love of her family, and a great sense of duty and love for her Country.
Caroline Delacroix is working at the White House as the First Lady’s Secretary. From appearances, she has everything a woman would want in life, except for love: outstanding job, striking looks, and a strong and charming personality. But she hides secrets. Secrets that could put her job in peril, if they were divulged: her brother Luke is prisioner in Cuba, accused for treason, and could very well be hanged for it, if he’s found guilty of the accusations.
Nathaniel Trask works for America’s Secret Service. And he’s been commissioned with a complicated task. After the asssasination of a foreign head of state, the White House Security Service has to increase. Even if President McKinley dislikes bodyguards and the likes. So, he finds himself working along with Caroline to protect the President and his ailing wife. And even if they’re complete opposites –he’s a brooding, rule-follower sort, while she’s charming and unpredictable- he finds himself attracted to her and falling her as he gets to know her better. But she’s hiding something… and duty to his Country comes first. Or does it?… Will Nate find success in protecting the President and his wife? Will he uncover the mystery that threatens the White House? Will he and Caroline give each other a chance to prove their love is for real? Or will Caroline secrets tear them apart?
The story was complex, intriguing, deep and very engaging. I loved the fact that it was based intrue facts: President McKinley and his wife are real characters even if their story is fictional it has real events and pieces of true history. The threat to a President and the pursuing of his security is in i tan intriguing theme, but in this case, it was the deepness of the main characters that made it really captivating. Nathaniel and Caroline were truly the perfect match, with their flaws and their contrasting personalities. They complemented so well and they brought out the best in each other. I loved that there is a faith element, in trusting God with your life, in letting God forgive you and forgive yourself, and in learning you are loved unconditionally by that Merciful God. There was so much to learn behind the struggles of each character and so many inspiring messages throughout the story. But I won’t spoil it anymore and let you discover them yourself. The side characters were very realistic and well defined too. As were the characterization of the President and the First Lady. Caroline’s relationship to Ida McKinley was unique!
Finally, the love story was beautiful, and it was blended perfectly in the plot, without making it the main focus of the story. I liked that!
This is a story I totally recommend to any Historical Romance lovers. Will not disappoint you!
Elizabeth Camden has masterfully crafted yet another historical novel that transports you completely back through history. The details and descriptions that were written in this story allowed the reader to really visualize the time period. Reading this books was like getting a private tour of the Whitehouse during the McKinley administration and it was fascinating! Caroline and Nathaniel were such a great match. They were equally intelligent and their interactions were always filled with sparks and an undeniable chemistry. The mystery behind Caroline’s brothers imprisonment is a prominent issue in this book and the events that take place at the conclusion wrap up this storyline perfectly, while also setting up the next novel! I cannot wait to see where this series will go next!
As I read the last page of A Gilded Lady I felt as though I had been on a historical trip of epic proportions. Elizabeth Camden doesn’t just write a story on the surface of the page, if you will. She writes the details of history deep into the covers of a book. She digs long and hard in the annuals of American history and comes up with stories that would make any patriot proud to live in this great country. She finds professions that do not quickly come to mind as a day to day job and uses them to fascinate her readers. The ins and outs of those trades will astound you and have you wishing you were some small part of them.
I learned aspects of my American roots that I was never able to learn as a girl in school. If I had had Elizabeth Camden books back then, I would know a lot more facts now. Get your hands on this book when you can and indulge in it’s pages, savor the words, and learn more about God’s Grace as you read.
I was gifted a copy of this book by Netgalley and was under no obligation to post a review.
A Gilded Lady by Elizabeth Camden is a delightful glance into the world of President McKinley’s life. While Caroline is a secretary to his wife, Ida McKinley, it was nice to see their relationship even among the numerous struggles being a president would bring to a relationship. The plot was intriguing and fascinating. I love the Luke storyline, which took place in Cuba and Washington D.C. Camden’s research shines on the pages of her stories but comes alive through the characters and settings. I enjoyed these characters, and I can’t wait to see what the third book will entail. In conclusion, fans of Elizabeth Camden’s writing or historical romance based loosely on true events or characters should pick up this novel.
I received a complimentary copy of A Gilded Lady by Elizabeth Camden through Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.
Another thoroughly delightful book by Elizabeth Camden! I’m loving this Hope and Glory series beginning with The Spice King, and now A Guilded Lady. Right off the bat, I am drawn into the whirlwind life of Caroline Delacroix living in the White House as secretary to First Lady Ida McKinley and Nathanial Trask, head of President McKinley’s secret service team. The story is so intriguing, and all the characters in the main story, as well as those in the several side stories, are well developed and entertaining. Her characters and story stay with me long after I finish the book. Elizabeth Camden has a beautiful way of writing that puts you right in the story, making it easy to imagine life in the guided age. I found it so interesting to think about how things were done in our country in that time period compared to now. I could not put the book down! Stay tuned at the end of the book for the Historical Note, for a great place to learn more about the history in the story. I am really looking forward to The Prince of Spies, Book Three of the Hope And Glory series releasing next year. I highly recommend A Guilded Lady if you’d like to escape into a completely engrossing historical fiction story by the incomparable author Elizabeth Camden.
I have really enjoyed this series by Elizabeth Camden and loved that we got to read more about Caroline (who was introduced in the first book) in this novel. No one writes banter and romance quite like Elizabeth Camden and I greatly enjoyed the development of the characters and relationships in this book. The novel also contains an element of mystery, as secrets are slowly revealed and there are several surprising twists and turns. I liked the spiritual aspects woven among the story. The history is well researched and rich in its details. This book does contain an interesting timeline as part of it overlaps the first book, so to get the full story, I do recommend reading these books in order. I very much enjoyed this book and highly recommend the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Beautiful, feisty Caroline Delacroix works day and night as personal secretary to the president’s wife, Ida McKinley. What a job the young woman has! Ida McKinley is certainly not the easiest person to work for and requires an undue amount of attention. Caroline does her job flying by the seat of her pants and breaking whatever rules are necessary to get things accomplished. The stakes are high for Caroline as she desperately needs a pardon from the President for her wayward brother Luke.
Nathaniel Trask, treasury agent and investigator extraordinaire, gets assigned to head the new security task for President McKinley. Nathaniel has some issues of his own with which he struggles, but there is no one better at details and plans for security. He is a handsome, serious fellow that believes firmly in following the rules and guidelines.
As Caroline and Nathaniel bump heads over jobs and rules, they find value in many of each other’s distinctive traits. Each of them tries to do the best job possible, but each follows a distinctly different set of rules. Caroline’s brother Luke adds another layer of complication to their blossoming friendship.
The historical data is excellent in this novel. The details regarding Ida McKinley’s illnesses and personality issues, President McKinley’s reelection and his assassination, as well as the information about the formation and changing work of the Secret Service provide an interesting backdrop to an excellent story. As always with Elizabeth Camden’s work, the historical notes add depth to the book.
An excellent read! The first book in the series definitely adds background depth to the story so I would highly recommend reading The Spice King first. Readers of historical fiction and historical Christian fiction will enjoy this book! Book Three is coming in 2021!
This ARC copy was received from Bethany House and Netgalley.com. The above thoughts and opinions are wholly my own.
#AGildedLady #NetGalley
Elizabeth Camden’s books are always so well researched, rich with historical details that make me want to find out more. There were a few things in A Gilded Lady that confused me a bit because they didn’t quite fit with what I had remembered from the first book, The Spice King. A quick look at that book solved the problem. It covers May-November 1900, but instead of picking up where that one left off, A Gilded Lady begins July 30, 1900 so there is a bit of overlap, though from different perspectives. This is Caroline Delacroix’s story. She is personal secretary to Ida McKinley, the president’s wife. Besides her extremely busy work schedule, she has stress about her twin brother Luke’s continued imprisonment in Cuba for treason and continues to work with older brother Gray to find a way for him to be released. Caroline is attracted to the new head of White House security, Nathaniel Trask, and he to her, but their responsibilities don’t leave much room for acting on it. Nathaniel is a very serious man who feels the weight of the burden of keeping the president safe, not only in Washington but on a three month train trip across the United States. They deal with heartache and failure, with faith and love to sustain them. Nathaniel must decide what is most important to him. I would recommend A Gilded Lady (and The Spice King) to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a bit of romance.
I received a complementary copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own.