I wanted to like this book, but I found many parts boring, although I should have tried to learn things from them. I'm really for Eliza, but sometimes I liked Alexander, especially compared with Burr. I mostly read this because I might see the show, "Hamilton," and didn't want to read the bigger non-fiction book. ( )

I should probably wait until the tears subside to write a review, but then I'll forget. This is a beautiful love story of two inspiring, if imperfect, people. Hamilton's affair with Maria Reynolds burns me up, but his love for Eliza and hers for him are the things that I think everyone aspires to. This book was well written, although there were a few spelling/printing errors that I wish had been caught and corrected before it went to print, and it strengthens my Hamilton obsession. ( )

If you don’t already know about Alexander Hamilton’s role as a founding father, then not only did you not pay attention in history class, but you’ve been living under a rock these past few years as the musical H✰milton has swept the Tony awards.

Cobbs is an historian, who also occasionally writes a work of historical fiction. She started researching this novel, got intrigued by the subject, and was told by her publisher that “No one knows about this guy or wants to read about him … Snooze!” But she was convinced that the story was a good one. Several years into the project, a friend told her, “You have to see the You-Tube video of this guy reading a rap poem about Hamilton at the White House!” (It was Lin Manuel Miranda, and this eventually became the hit musical.)

I thought I knew Hamilton’s story, but there were still things in this novel that caught my attention and made me take notice. I was interested and engaged from beginning to end.

Cobbs tells the story in alternating perspectives: Alexander and Eliza each get a turn at relating events. In this way we get some insight into each character’s background, guiding principles, joys, sorrows and desires. I really appreciated how strong a character Cobb’s Eliza is. And while Cobbs’ sympathies were clearly with Hamilton, she did not shy away from pointing out his faults, infidelity being perhaps the least of them.

Our F2F book group had a spirited discussion, made all the more enjoyable by a Skype visit from the author. ( )

At first, I thought this book was dragging because it constantly flips from Alexander's POV to Eliza's POV. Different locations, different times, so you really have to pay attention! But when they finally met, it began to pick up better. They did seem to have a genuine love for each other until the affair between Alexander and Mrs. Reynolds. It damaged the marriage and took a long time to repair.

Morals aside, I think Alexander Hamilton made some good contributions to America. A lot of people are quick to credit George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, but I think Alexander Hamilton should be remembered for his share as well!

I feel that Elizabeth Cobb did a good job sharing her knowledge of Alexander Hamilton. I can understand why this book has become rather popular. ( )

Great read.
Loved this book.
I’m not one for regular history books but love a good historical fiction and this one is just that.
Didn’t want to put it down. ( )