A Gilded Lady (Hope and Glory)

A Gilded Lady by Elizabeth Camden takes readers back to the early twentieth century in Washington, D.C. where President William McKinley is running for his second term. Caroline Delacroix is the personal secretary to Mrs. Ida McKinley. Caroline has worked to make herself indispensable because she needs to ask President McKinley a large favor. Nathaniel Trask is an agent with the Secret Service. His new assignment is design and implement a security system for the White House plus the protection of the man who occupies the oval office. Nathaniel is distrustful of Caroline especially when he learns what her twin brother, Luke has done and where he is currently residing. Nathaniel finds it difficult to remain distant with Caroline when he is attracted to her and enjoys spending time in her company. Nathaniel needs to remain vigilant during these tumultuous times if he is to keep President McKinley alive. He soon finds himself working with Caroline to protect President McKinley and his wife. A Gilded Lady is the 2nd novel in Hope and Glory series. While this historical novel can be read on its own, I recommend reading The Spice King first. Hope and Glory focuses on Gray, Caroline, and Luke Delacroix. The Spice King featured Gray with A Gilded Lady focuses on Caroline. I thought A Gilded Lady is well-written with complex characters. Caroline is a fashionable woman who comes from a wealthy family. I was happy to see that she has matured since The Spice King. Caroline was hired to improve Ida McKinley's reputation and help her with her numerous social engagement (prevent faux pas). Caroline is a strong woman who is determined to help her twin brother, Luke. Nathaniel is a man who follows the rules, does not drink alcohol, and notices every detail. He is the perfect person for the job at the White House. Nathaniel lost someone close to him many years ago who he was to protect. It continues to disturb him causing nightmares. While Nathaniel is a rule follower, Caroline believes that rules were meant to be broken. They are a perfect pair as they balance each other. The romance builds slowly throughout the book which I like. Caroline's faith has developed and expresses it openly especially with Nathaniel. The pair pray for support when they need it. The author mixed fictional and real historical figures beautifully into A Gilded Lady along with new inventions, current fashion trends, and historical events. A Gilded Lady blends strong characters with action, intrigue, drama, and romance into one engaging story.