Washington's Lady

By Nancy Moser




Although you know how the story ends, this historical novel is a marvelous read for anyone who is interested in the history of the Revolution. It is the entire history of Martha and George Washington as a couple, told from Martha's point-of-view. While many aspects of the story are factual, it is primarily supposition and embellishments. Nancy Moser creates a completely believable narrative, though it is impossible to know truly what always went through Martha's head and heart.

One fun aspect of this book is the "Fact or Fiction" section at the end. It explains to the reader where some of the embellishments were derived from; most often the supposition stems from an actual account. It is as if the blanks were merely filled in by Nancy Moser to create this delighful tale. Due to the fact that Martha Washington burned all the letters between herself and George, very little is known of their personal life. The book gives a great and fairly detailed historical account of Washington's life as a landowner, General and eventual President of the United States. Battles are recounted in discussions from Washington's mouth, making the reader feel as though they are speaking with him.

Some of the text denotes the upper class in the story. While the vocabulary is not above the average reader's head, it is very articulate. For example, when George Washington comes to visit friends of Martha's, the reader sees the scene from Martha's point-of-view:

"But then an unexpected visitor came to call. I had met the dapper Colonel Washington at various soirees in Williamsburg and, of course, had heard tales of his heroism fighting the French and Indians out west. Those western borders were held precariously. I had heard Daniel speak of horrendous violations endured by many of the brave settlers. I had also read portions of a journal Colonel Washington had written about his exploits. Apparently it had been published on both continents.

We gathered in the foyer to receive this new guest. I had not remembered him to be quite so striking. He stood well over six feet, towering over me and the other ladies--- and even most of the men. His torso was sturdy, his hands and feet enormous. His hair held a reddish cast and was pulled into a ribbon. His nose was large, his eyes a pale blue. The only weakness about him was his face, which was a bit gaunt and pale as though he may have been ill of late, and scarred, most likely from a bout of the smallpox.

While "Washington's Lady" is a love story between a widow and a war hero, it is also a reminder of the greatness from which our country has grown. The book invokes pride and patriotism, for both the United States as we know it, and for the sacrifices made by our Founding Fathers.

In my book, this book is a must-read.

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