Review: Spy-Mistress by Jennifer Chiaverini

 

 

 

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I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a review.

 

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Jennifer is an author I’ve been menaing to read for some time, so when I received a review opportunity for this Historical Fiction book I said yes immediately. Based on a true story this book chronicles the life of Virginia Van Lew. Virginia’s life in Richmond is very full despite being a spinster. Virginia and her mother treat their African American workers with unprecedented freedom and respect considering they mentality of 1861. 

 

Heartbroken once her state succeeds from the Union, Van Lew manages to pledge her support to Lincoln and becomes a trader of information while giving humanitarian aid at the Libby Prison. It’s a dangerous position. Outwardly Virginia and her mother must appear loyal to the Confederacy.

There was a lot of this book I enjoyed. It’s a snapshot of one of the most important events in American History.However I didn’t really connect with Virginia. Parts of the book felt like a history lesson, which wasn't a problem but I didn't really get a sense of Virginia’s inner emotions.

Of course no author can know the inner thoughts of a historical figure, but I would have enjoyed a bit more exploration of Lew’s inner life. Her accomplishments were amazing however and it was great to read about an important part of Virginian history.

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