Book Review: Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini

Back in the beginning of January, Dutton Books contacted me ... 

would I be interested in reading and reviewing 

Jennifer Chiaverini's latest book?

"Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker"

 ... Well ... 

YES! 

Boy was that a silly question!

Having been an avid fan of Jennifer's Elm Creek novels (all 20 of them!), 

I jumped at the chance to read and review her latest book -

which happens to be a historical novel. 

In "Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker" Jennifer departs from the cozy town of 

Waterford and goes beyond the walls of Elm Creek Quilt Camp 

into the war torn world of the Civil War. 

Just like all of her other novels, Jennifer draws you deep into the story 

of friendship between the main characters in the book. 

The narrative is powerful and allows readers to view the tense and troubled 

life of Mary Todd Lincoln from the eyes of  one of her closest confidants, 

Elizabeth Keckley her dressmaker. 

The story grips the reader as it explores the relationship and 

personal interactions of Elizabeth Keckley and Mrs. Lincoln.  

"Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker," quilts a compelling story wrapped in history, 

making readers feel as though they are walking among the Lincoln family 

during and after their brief time at the White House. 

For all of those Elm Creek fans out there, 

this book will not let you down, 

it offers a look at life, love, friendships and hardships 

from the eyes of Elizabeth Keckley - 

freed slave, talented dressmaker and 

friend to Mrs. Lincoln.

It is a must read!

Calling all Jennifer Chiaverini fans - it's a GIVE AWAY!!!

I've been asked by Liza Cassity a publicist at Dutton books to do a give away on my blog 

for Jennifer's newest novel in the Elm Creek Series ~ SONOMA ROSE !!

Jennifer has always been praised for her ability to write historical and present-day fiction with equal skill. While her last novel was set in modern times, Sonoma Rose tells the story of a young mother's heroic journey in Prohibition-era America.

Rosa Diaz Barclay is touched by the criminality surrounding Prohibition when she discovers that her husband, John, has given over the duties of their Southern California rye farm in favor of bootlegging. Fearing the safety of her four children, Rosa flees, carrying only a case of John’s ill-begotten cash and her mother’s two quilts. Lars Jorgensen, her true love and the father of two of her children, aids in her escape, and together the six travel north to San Francisco. Under assumed names, they are hired to work at a Sonoma vineyard, where Rosa creates a personal and professional identity that she would never have dared imagine at the opening of her tale, and one that brings great honor-and beauty-to all who surround her.

I am so excited to host this give away ... my first give way!! 

I LOVE Jennifer's novels ... I am not an avid reader, 

but her novels and style of writting give me the feeling that I'm right there in the story

 I can actually see the characters - it's amazing! 

SO if you are as excited about Jennifer's new book as I am 

Please leave me a comment with your name and contact information. 

Liza has requested the give away be limited to US and Canada - 

sorry for those of you outside that zone. 

I will select a random winner and your information will be forwarded to Liza 

she will send out the book to you directly from Dutton Publishing.

The drawing will be done Sunday 2/26/2012 at 8pm EST.

Good Luck!