https://www.literarypawspectives.com/post/a-historical-mystery-with-mixed-results-the-lace-widow-by-mollie-ann-cox

I recently had the opportunity to read "The Lace Widow" by Mollie Ann Cox, courtesy of Netgalley. While I was initially intrigued by the premise, the book left me with mixed feelings, ultimately earning a 2.5-star rating out of 5.

The story unfolds in the aftermath of Alexander Hamilton's murder, with Eliza Hamilton thrust into a murder mystery in her town. For those unfamiliar with the historical figures, such as Alexander and Eliza Hamilton, navigating the narrative might be challenging. The author assumes a certain level of familiarity, referencing events and relationships that could be confusing for readers with limited knowledge.

As a fan of Hamilton the musical and having read Ron Chernow's "Alexander Hamilton," I appreciated the portrayal of Eliza, capturing her remarkable personality accurately. However, the plot fell short of my expectations. The mystery lacked the desired twists and turns, and the dialogue occasionally felt repetitive, leaving the overall narrative somewhat bland.

While the book felt worth my time, I would approach recommending it with caution, considering the need for a solid understanding of Hamilton's history to fully appreciate the story. Despite its shortcomings, "The Lace Widow" succeeds in portraying Eliza Hamilton as the amazing woman she was.