"Books" Archive

My Dear Hamilton: A Novel of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie

I chose this book initially because like most of the country I had fallen under the spell of Lin Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton. Surprisingly, this book turned out to be one of my favorite books I’ve read so far this year. My Dear Hamilton gives us a glimpse into the life of Eliza Schuyler before she became Mrs. Hamilton.

As with most historical fiction the authors embellished some of the characters and events. I did appreciate the extent of the authors’ research into the actual people, places and events that took place during Eliza’s lifetime.

I love historical fiction, especially the Revolutionary War era. If you are a fan of Hamilton the musical you will really enjoy this book. Perfect mix of historical facts with great imaginative writing.

Review by Andover Public Library Staff

All Fall Down by Ally Carter

Grace knows she isn’t crazy. She witnessed her mother’s murder and is determined to find the man responsible – whatever the cost. But faced with a lack of evidence and supporting witnesses, she is deemed irrational by those around her and her accusations largely discredited. When she unexpectedly encounters her mother’s killer hidden among the social elite, she decides to take matters into her own hands to prove the truth of what happened.

“All Fall Down” in the first book in Ally Carter’s Embassy Row trilogy that follows Grace’s investigation into her mother’s enigmatic past. Perhaps the best aspect of this book is the unreliable narrator; part Anastasia, part Memento, this book keeps the reader guessing at what is fact and what is supposition., the story is entertaining and fast-paced

This series will appeal to a wide variety of readers and is especially perfect for any reader that enjoys suspenseful YA fiction mixed with a hint of romance. While the plot has its issues (as most do), it is engaging and fast-paced, and leaves the reader instantly reaching for the next book in the trilogy.

Review by Andover Public Library Staff