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Lucy: A Novel
An utterly absorbing novel about a famous political marriage and an epic infidelity.
On the eve of World War I, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Franklin Delano Roosevelt, fiercely ambitious and still untouched by polio, falls in love with his wife's social secretary, Lucy Mercer. Eleanor stumbles on their letters and divorce is discussed, but honor and ambition win out. Franklin promises he will never see Lucy again.But Franklin and Lucy do meet again, and again they fall in love. As he prepares to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turns to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor is unable to give.Ellen Feldman brings a novelist's insight to bear on the connection of these three compelling characters. Franklin and Lucy did finally meet, across the divide of his illness and political ascendancy, her marriage and widowhood. They fell in love again. As he prepared to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turned to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor was unable to give.Drawing on recently discovered materials to re-create the voice of a woman who played a crucial but silent role in the Roosevelt presidency, Lucy is a remarkably sensitive exploration of the private lives behind a public marriage. Reading group guide included.
On the eve of World War I, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Franklin Delano Roosevelt, fiercely ambitious and still untouched by polio, falls in love with his wife's social secretary, Lucy Mercer. Eleanor stumbles on their letters and divorce is discussed, but honor and ambition win out. Franklin promises he will never see Lucy again.But Franklin and Lucy do meet again, and again they fall in love. As he prepares to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turns to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor is unable to give.Ellen Feldman brings a novelist's insight to bear on the connection of these three compelling characters. Franklin and Lucy did finally meet, across the divide of his illness and political ascendancy, her marriage and widowhood. They fell in love again. As he prepared to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turned to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor was unable to give.Drawing on recently discovered materials to re-create the voice of a woman who played a crucial but silent role in the Roosevelt presidency, Lucy is a remarkably sensitive exploration of the private lives behind a public marriage. Reading group guide included.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2002
55 people are currently reading
773 people want to read
About the author
Ellen Feldman
23 books382 followersEllen Feldman is an American writer. She grew up in New Jersey and attended Bryn Mawr College, and graduated with B.A. and an M.A. in modern history. She also worked for a publishing firm in New York City and continued with graduate studies at Columbia University.
Feldman currently lives in New York City and East Hampton, New York.
Feldman currently lives in New York City and East Hampton, New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
November 30, 2012
I judged this book by its cover. Doesn't it look interesting?
And at first it was. The first few chapters, I felt like I was actually sitting in Eleanor Roosevelt's front parlor and watching Franklin coming in the door.
But I got really irritated with Lucy. It seemed like every other sentence was, "Most women would have been annoyed with Franklin for liking a good cocktail after dinner, but I realized he needed to relax." Or, "I had learned from Eleanor that it is not good to present Franklin with the cares of the nation just when he is finally sitting down to a good meal." It made me think, 'Okay, Lucy. I understand that you are just trying to explain very clearly why Franklin Roosevelt really preferred you to other women. But it just makes me dislike you' - and it makes me admire Eleanor Roosevelt that much more, because she has a depth of character that I did not see in this version of Lucy Mercer, and a self-knowledge and the ability to grow and change with time.
Feldman's writing was good, and believable. The biggest reason I disliked this book was that I couldn't find a way to sympathize (or empathize) with its protagonist.
And at first it was. The first few chapters, I felt like I was actually sitting in Eleanor Roosevelt's front parlor and watching Franklin coming in the door.
But I got really irritated with Lucy. It seemed like every other sentence was, "Most women would have been annoyed with Franklin for liking a good cocktail after dinner, but I realized he needed to relax." Or, "I had learned from Eleanor that it is not good to present Franklin with the cares of the nation just when he is finally sitting down to a good meal." It made me think, 'Okay, Lucy. I understand that you are just trying to explain very clearly why Franklin Roosevelt really preferred you to other women. But it just makes me dislike you' - and it makes me admire Eleanor Roosevelt that much more, because she has a depth of character that I did not see in this version of Lucy Mercer, and a self-knowledge and the ability to grow and change with time.
Feldman's writing was good, and believable. The biggest reason I disliked this book was that I couldn't find a way to sympathize (or empathize) with its protagonist.
June 23, 2016
First-rate biographical fiction, in Lucy Mercer's point of view, illuminating Lucy (about whom little is known, except for a few biographical facts) and FDR. Lucy's voice is romantic, poetic, perfectly fitting for the way she is portrayed in photographs and the painting by Mme. Shoumatoff. The historical contexts established at the beginnings of the chapters are excellent, as are the instances when Lucy interlaces events in Franklin's life with events in her own. Feldman portrays ER as self-engrossed and socially naive, but that's partly true and completely understandable, given that Lucy is the POV character. The time scope of the novel very well. Time is a problem in a relationship that spanned 30 years.
April 12, 2013
This book fascinated me. I admit I don't know a lot about FDR and Eleanor Roosevelt, but I have visited Hyde Park. I was surprised that I actually cared for the "Other Woman" in his life, Lucy Mercer. This is a fictionalized version of their love triangle, but it seemed to ring true. This book also gave me a glimpse into what was occurring around the world during this historic time. (In other words, I learned something, while also being entertained). If you like historical fiction, you should like this book also.
November 26, 2013
I'd have liked this book a lot more if the author hadn't turned the narrator into such an insufferable Mary Sue. There undoubtedly is an interesting book in the story of Lucy Mercer and FDR- and there were occasional signs of it. But, generally speaking, this book wasn't that story.
January 8, 2012
I found this historical fiction book very disappointing. "Flat". Expected more, perhaps. And, I felt it could have been so much better. Normally, with an historical fiction book, I find myself going back and forth to the computer to get more information, however, with this book, that just didn't happen. Too bad, because FDR, Eleanor and Lucy are very interesting people.
October 1, 2010
Didn't know anything about FDR before reading this... really enjoyed learning more about him. Wish that the charactors had been developed a little more... but a good read none the less!!!
March 9, 2025
Lucy is the second novel from Ellen Feldman that I have read. And like the first, it was a delight to read. It tells the story of the relationship between Franklin Roosevelt and Lucy Mercer. This was a relationship that began around the time of the U.S. entry into World War I when Lucy Mercer was working as the social secretary for Eleanor Roosevelt, Franklin's wife. At this time, Franklin Roosevelt was a politician on the rise, serving as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy under President Woodrow Wilson. Franklin was by nature affable, outgoing, and full of bonhomie. He and Lucy became friends through her close association with Mrs. Roosevelt. And by degrees, a deep and passionate love developed between Franklin and Lucy Mercer.
What makes the novel come alive is in the way it conveys to the reader the nature of the relationship between Franklin and Lucy Mercer and how it impacted both of them throughout their lives, as well as on Franklin's relationship with his wife. The story is partially conveyed in the voice of Lucy Mercer herself and is also very much shaped by the known history of her relationship with Franklin spanning almost 3 decades.
Before coming to Lucy, I had some awareness of this relationship. One book I would recommend to any reader with an interest in gaining some insight into the Franklin Roosevelt-Lucy Mercer relationship is FDR's LAST YEAR: April 1944-April 1945 by Jim Bishop.
So, reading this novel rounded out my understanding of the relationship. As well as the following exchange between Franklin and Lucy Mercer (Rutherfurd) provided by the author during one of Franklin's wartime discreet meetings with Mrs. Rutherfurd (now a widow) during the summer of 1944:
Lucy: "Having me at the Place or Hobcaw or even the White House was one thing; detaining the presidential train and keeping scores of people waiting seemed to be asking for trouble, or at least public notice. His trips were off the record, but three reporters traveled with him. They were bound to ask questions. I knew how scandal could spread. I was a widow of no importance. His position was more lofty, and vulnerable."
FDR: "I'll tell them I'm stopping to visit an old friend."
Lucy: "Won't they ask whom?"
"They're hardened reporters, Lucy. They want war news, or political dope, or scandals that cost the taxpayers money. The sort of thing the Truman Committee's been after. Even if they knew about us, they wouldn't print it. It's an unwritten rule. A gentleman's agreement. Personal matters are off the record. ... Think of it, Lucy, in years to come when historians are poring over my every move, someone will notice that while most trips from Washington to Hyde Park left at night and arrived first thing the next morning, on August thirty-first, 1944, the president left at the usual time, but didn't arrive at Hyde Park until the evening of September first. Can you imagine the speculation? Engine trouble? A sabotage threat? The poor devils will never figure it out."
What makes the novel come alive is in the way it conveys to the reader the nature of the relationship between Franklin and Lucy Mercer and how it impacted both of them throughout their lives, as well as on Franklin's relationship with his wife. The story is partially conveyed in the voice of Lucy Mercer herself and is also very much shaped by the known history of her relationship with Franklin spanning almost 3 decades.
Before coming to Lucy, I had some awareness of this relationship. One book I would recommend to any reader with an interest in gaining some insight into the Franklin Roosevelt-Lucy Mercer relationship is FDR's LAST YEAR: April 1944-April 1945 by Jim Bishop.
So, reading this novel rounded out my understanding of the relationship. As well as the following exchange between Franklin and Lucy Mercer (Rutherfurd) provided by the author during one of Franklin's wartime discreet meetings with Mrs. Rutherfurd (now a widow) during the summer of 1944:
Lucy: "Having me at the Place or Hobcaw or even the White House was one thing; detaining the presidential train and keeping scores of people waiting seemed to be asking for trouble, or at least public notice. His trips were off the record, but three reporters traveled with him. They were bound to ask questions. I knew how scandal could spread. I was a widow of no importance. His position was more lofty, and vulnerable."
FDR: "I'll tell them I'm stopping to visit an old friend."
Lucy: "Won't they ask whom?"
"They're hardened reporters, Lucy. They want war news, or political dope, or scandals that cost the taxpayers money. The sort of thing the Truman Committee's been after. Even if they knew about us, they wouldn't print it. It's an unwritten rule. A gentleman's agreement. Personal matters are off the record. ... Think of it, Lucy, in years to come when historians are poring over my every move, someone will notice that while most trips from Washington to Hyde Park left at night and arrived first thing the next morning, on August thirty-first, 1944, the president left at the usual time, but didn't arrive at Hyde Park until the evening of September first. Can you imagine the speculation? Engine trouble? A sabotage threat? The poor devils will never figure it out."
February 25, 2016
I think this book actually deserves three and a half stars but as goodreads is s stickler for the "whole" star, I was forced to give it three. Anyone who loves historical fiction, specifically from FDR's time period, will truly enjoy this book. I had prior knowledge of the affair and long-standing relationship between Franklin Roosevelt and Lucy Mercer-Rutherfurd. Having said that, it was interesting to see that the author was sure to tie in historical facts and details of their relationship into the novel.
Ellen Feldman stayed true to the idea that all humans are flawed but those who are most compelling are more likely to be forgiven for those flaws. FDR is one such historical character. It still fascinates me that the same man who could have a depth of compassion for those of his countrymen most in need was the same man who in his personal relationships lacked that same depth. While on one level it could be argued that FDR indeed respected and valued his wife's opinions and political acumen, it could be equally posited that he could be emotionally cold and unyielding when it came to respecting his wife's need for a deeper connection based on honesty and trust.
One is left to wonder what might have become of the world had this personal relationship and matter put an end to such an industrious career before it truly had time to make its mark on the world. I, for one, am grateful that history played out as it did. The world, in my opinion, and the United States for sure, would be a much more unequal, unjust place without having had the benefit of Franklin Roosevelt's leadership.
Ellen Feldman stayed true to the idea that all humans are flawed but those who are most compelling are more likely to be forgiven for those flaws. FDR is one such historical character. It still fascinates me that the same man who could have a depth of compassion for those of his countrymen most in need was the same man who in his personal relationships lacked that same depth. While on one level it could be argued that FDR indeed respected and valued his wife's opinions and political acumen, it could be equally posited that he could be emotionally cold and unyielding when it came to respecting his wife's need for a deeper connection based on honesty and trust.
One is left to wonder what might have become of the world had this personal relationship and matter put an end to such an industrious career before it truly had time to make its mark on the world. I, for one, am grateful that history played out as it did. The world, in my opinion, and the United States for sure, would be a much more unequal, unjust place without having had the benefit of Franklin Roosevelt's leadership.
August 16, 2015
I found this novel difficult to read. Not the subject matter, it is pretty much the same we've heard for seventy years: FDR and Eleanor Roosevelt's unconventional relationship and FDR's swarm of adoring ladies buzzing around him like flies to honey. What I found difficult to read was the jerky, choppy, back and forth sentence and paragraph structure. I found myself needing to re-read what I'd just read to follow where the author was trying to take the reader. The writing didn't always flow.
Even though this is historical fiction, I felt Ms. Feldman stuck close to history, superficial though it be, barely scratching the surface. I would have enjoyed a bit more war era trivia such as the following found on page 278, ". . . A moment later he would emerge from his room, dressed for the portrait in one of his dashing prewar double-breasted blue-gray suits - they must have been prewar because the War Production Board had outlawed double-breasted suits along with cuffed trousers and flap pockets and pleated skirts- and a red tie, looking fit and rested and happy."
Perhaps my adoration of Eleanor Roosevelt prejudiced me against Lucy and the rest of FDR's buzzing flies. I will admit, the buzzing flies were able to offer and provide FDR with unconditional love, something Eleanor could not.
In my opinion, Lucy can not be substituted for a good FDR or Eleanor biography. Happy Reading.
Even though this is historical fiction, I felt Ms. Feldman stuck close to history, superficial though it be, barely scratching the surface. I would have enjoyed a bit more war era trivia such as the following found on page 278, ". . . A moment later he would emerge from his room, dressed for the portrait in one of his dashing prewar double-breasted blue-gray suits - they must have been prewar because the War Production Board had outlawed double-breasted suits along with cuffed trousers and flap pockets and pleated skirts- and a red tie, looking fit and rested and happy."
Perhaps my adoration of Eleanor Roosevelt prejudiced me against Lucy and the rest of FDR's buzzing flies. I will admit, the buzzing flies were able to offer and provide FDR with unconditional love, something Eleanor could not.
In my opinion, Lucy can not be substituted for a good FDR or Eleanor biography. Happy Reading.
September 8, 2015
*3.5 stars*
My latest read about famous people and their wives and/or mistresses. This was a quick read about FDR's semi-secret love affair with Eleanor Roosevelt's personal secretary, Lucy Mercer. I'm definitely enjoying historical fiction like this as teasers for more in depth biographies. (I'm now looking for a good Eleanor Roosevelt bio.) I liked how Ellen Feldman so deftly recreated the social mores of the 1920's through the 1940's. She captured the huge personality of Franklin Roosevelt but this is definitely not a political novel so much as a love story. Sometimes this genre can get a bit too 'chick lit romancey' for my tastes but this was not the case for "Lucy".
My latest read about famous people and their wives and/or mistresses. This was a quick read about FDR's semi-secret love affair with Eleanor Roosevelt's personal secretary, Lucy Mercer. I'm definitely enjoying historical fiction like this as teasers for more in depth biographies. (I'm now looking for a good Eleanor Roosevelt bio.) I liked how Ellen Feldman so deftly recreated the social mores of the 1920's through the 1940's. She captured the huge personality of Franklin Roosevelt but this is definitely not a political novel so much as a love story. Sometimes this genre can get a bit too 'chick lit romancey' for my tastes but this was not the case for "Lucy".
August 9, 2020
My local library has book sales and I grabbed this one for a dollar. In reading the back cover, the historical aspect interested me but what especially piqued my curiosity, was to read about the affair itself. The affair between Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Lucy Mercer, his wife's social secretary.
I was interested in discovering the psychology behind each person. Specifically, those mental characteristics and justifications that enable all parties to be part of an affair. There's the person who chooses to go outside of their marriage in the first place (FDR); the person who chooses to exist in a relationship where among other things, lies and secrets are required (Lucy); the person that chooses to remain in the marriage despite the transgressions (Eleanor).
Maybe the short answer for the explanation or psychology of the affair is "love"? The love between FDR and Lucy was undeniable. I was aware of it throughout the whole story. But because it was within the confines of an affair, I don't think I allowed myself to "appreciate" it. It wasn't until the end of the story when FDR passes, that I was truly impacted by the depth of their love for one another.
I'm not sure the book offered me all of the insight I was hoping for. It left me wanting a deeper connection into Eleanor's thoughts and feelings. But perhaps that's not a reasonable expectation as it is told from the perspective of Lucy Mercer.
All in all, a good read.
I was interested in discovering the psychology behind each person. Specifically, those mental characteristics and justifications that enable all parties to be part of an affair. There's the person who chooses to go outside of their marriage in the first place (FDR); the person who chooses to exist in a relationship where among other things, lies and secrets are required (Lucy); the person that chooses to remain in the marriage despite the transgressions (Eleanor).
Maybe the short answer for the explanation or psychology of the affair is "love"? The love between FDR and Lucy was undeniable. I was aware of it throughout the whole story. But because it was within the confines of an affair, I don't think I allowed myself to "appreciate" it. It wasn't until the end of the story when FDR passes, that I was truly impacted by the depth of their love for one another.
I'm not sure the book offered me all of the insight I was hoping for. It left me wanting a deeper connection into Eleanor's thoughts and feelings. But perhaps that's not a reasonable expectation as it is told from the perspective of Lucy Mercer.
All in all, a good read.
August 20, 2023
A nice follow-up after reading "The First Ladies" by Victoria Christopher Murray and Marie Benedict.
November 27, 2016
While I imagine part of the purpose of this book was to get drawn into the romance between FDR and his on-again, off-again mistress Lucy, I was primarily drawn to the figure of Eleanor, who seems a little maligned by the novel as the less-than-ideal wife in that she did not appear to provide the emotional support FDR needed. Lucy herself did not inspire me - she basically seemed to be someone that was willing to smile and nod at everything FDR said, the perfect picture of the supportive woman. Eleanor and FDR definitely fell in love at some point, both extremely strong, powerful figures destined for amazing lives - just not exactly together. Maybe they were both larger than life, and although born and raised in Edwardian times and caught in the standards of her day, Eleanor was suppressed until she finally broke out on her own into the inspiring figure history came to know. This book left me wanting to know more about her. It calls into question the success of a marriage where both people have incredible dreams and personal intensity beyond measure - can they ever provide the comfort, support, and sense of home that everyone needs at some point? Why does it seem to be pretty much acceptable to everyone that since he was so amazing, and perhaps to even inspire him to his greatness, he needed a variety of seemingly bland women content to hide behind the scenes tending to his every need? What if the roles were reversed, and Eleanor had been the president, and sought out comfort outside of her marriage to get the emotionally consolation and support she needed? This book seems to support the notion that a woman's greatest aspiration should be to comfort and inspire a good man with utter selflessness. I can't imagine that's the intent, but that's how it came off to me - i.e., would a young woman reading this book be inspired to become the Lucy or the Eleanor?? Is the Eleanor figure inherently better, or wouldn't true feminism be to accept that maybe some people want to be the Lucy? I don't know - I think I'll always admire the Eleanor over the Lucy any day - but I am desperate now to know more about her. And frankly, I'd have rather read a book about her - and make this Lucy some behind-the-scenes footnote like Eleanor is in this book.
Lots to talk about here for any of you lucky enough to be in book clubs.
Lots to talk about here for any of you lucky enough to be in book clubs.
September 4, 2016
It was probably 2 1/2-a quick easy read for someone who likes historical fiction. It reminded me of the movie that Bill Murry was in Hyde Park on the Hudson (a pretty good film and performance for him) which included his secretary Missy Lehand. I thought that was who narrated this book. I did not recall that Lucy was his big (or first other than his wife) love (although his introduction to Eleanor may have been negotiated by his mother-I can't remember). Nor that she was Eleanor's secretary-ouch. It was kind of sappy in parts and again, this the author notes, is fiction, but the language likely is authentic to the time. A cautionary tale for those involved in relationships with married or involved partners-not to write down all that 'darling' stuff on paper or media. I didn't really like Lucy much I guess as she pulled the religion card to tell a lie. Of course there was no shortage of lies from FDR either. He was a user to get what he wanted--you'll have to read to find out the outcome of Missy. The main characters all had pretty great lives despite all the emotional turmoil. I suspect people who feel they are destined to be a big leader have different sets of rules to live by then us ordinary folks.
November 12, 2017
Interesting to see the development of a relationship outside social convention that was sustained throughout lives lived publicly and on a grand scale. The author delivered this thoughtfully making neither the hero or victim of any of the key characters. Easy to read too.
August 21, 2011
Historical fiction at its best transports one to a different time and place. There you see the sights, hear the sounds, and feel the emotions of that time and place. That is what happens when you turn the first page of Lucy by Ellen Feldman. You listen in as Lucy Mercer tells you how she came to 1733 N Street to be the social secretary to the wife of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy. You understand how she and Franklin Delano Roosevelt came to love each other and just how deep and enduring that love was. In telling their story, you are transported to Washington, D.C. when Woodrow Wilson declared war on Germany, you are with the women in the canteen as the troop trains arrive and depart, you are at home in Aiken, S.C. when the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor and at Warm Springs, Georgia when Franklin dies. As much as we are who we are, Lucy, Franklin, and Eleanor are just who they are, each person treated with respect and compassion.
December 1, 2010
This is an excellent and compelling read. It's clear that Ms. Feldman did quite a bit of research into the lives of Roosevelt and his mistress. It's impossible not to feel as though you are living during the time in which the book takes place when reading this. Ellen Feldman's a terrific storyteller, but more than that, she offers insight into history that might not be gained from reading a traditional history book or biography. I look forward to her next novel.
December 9, 2008
Read for my book club's December selection. Enjoyed on multiple levels, especially in the context of the political news of the day. The social programs enacted under FDR affect us today; it gives me great hope for Obama's future legacy. Both men have such vision ... that's all I can write for now because we are off for a playdate. Had to say something!
November 19, 2011
Although this was a relatively easy read I was somewhat disappointed with the lack of depth given to FDR's affair with Lucy Mercer, considering the longevity of their relationship. While the author obviously based many of her passages on historical fact the book left many questions unanswered.
January 11, 2022
On the eve of World War I, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Franklin Delano Roosevelt, fiercely ambitious and still untouched by polio, falls in love with his wife's social secretary, Lucy Mercer. Eleanor stumbles on their letters and divorce is discussed, but honor and ambition win out. Franklin promises he will never see Lucy again.
But Franklin and Lucy do meet again, and again they fall in love. As he prepares to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turns to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor is unable to give.
Ellen Feldman brings a novelist's insight to bear on the connection of these three compelling characters. Franklin and Lucy did finally meet, across the divide of his illness and political ascendancy, her marriage and widowhood. They fell in love again. As he prepared to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turned to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor was unable to give.
Drawing on recently discovered materials to re-create the voice of a woman who played a crucial but silent role in the Roosevelt presidency, Lucy is a remarkably sensitive exploration of the private lives behind a public marriage. Reading group guide included.
My Thoughts: A love story between Franklin D. Roosevelt and Lucy Mercer, told in Lucy’s voice, offers a peek into a long and forbidden union sustained despite the efforts to be secretive. Apparently the participants were not that discreet. There was evidence to suggest that Eleanor was well-aware of the relationship, but did nothing to separate them until a critical moment when FDR wanted a divorce. His political ambitions would have been at risk, so it didn’t happen.
It was interesting to see behind the scenes in that political era, especially because of what FDR’s legacy left to this country. It tells the reader how greatness can still be flawed by the humanity of the characters.
Feldman’s story was well written, and based on records that give credence to much of it. However, I did not warm to the characters. For me, four-star read.
But Franklin and Lucy do meet again, and again they fall in love. As he prepares to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turns to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor is unable to give.
Ellen Feldman brings a novelist's insight to bear on the connection of these three compelling characters. Franklin and Lucy did finally meet, across the divide of his illness and political ascendancy, her marriage and widowhood. They fell in love again. As he prepared to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turned to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor was unable to give.
Drawing on recently discovered materials to re-create the voice of a woman who played a crucial but silent role in the Roosevelt presidency, Lucy is a remarkably sensitive exploration of the private lives behind a public marriage. Reading group guide included.
My Thoughts: A love story between Franklin D. Roosevelt and Lucy Mercer, told in Lucy’s voice, offers a peek into a long and forbidden union sustained despite the efforts to be secretive. Apparently the participants were not that discreet. There was evidence to suggest that Eleanor was well-aware of the relationship, but did nothing to separate them until a critical moment when FDR wanted a divorce. His political ambitions would have been at risk, so it didn’t happen.
It was interesting to see behind the scenes in that political era, especially because of what FDR’s legacy left to this country. It tells the reader how greatness can still be flawed by the humanity of the characters.
Feldman’s story was well written, and based on records that give credence to much of it. However, I did not warm to the characters. For me, four-star read.
July 2, 2018
WOW another hero of mine has turned into a serial philanderer. I guess that women can convince themselves that they are the only ones, ands of course thenwives didn't understand them and requesteds too much and are too bullying. I guess I read too many books about Eleanor and felt she was a true heroine, so I was less impressed n=by Lucy
Amazon reviewer:An utterly absorbing novel about a famous political marriage and an epic infidelity.
On the eve of World War I, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Franklin Delano Roosevelt, fiercely ambitious and still untouched by polio, falls in love with his wife's social secretary, Lucy Mercer. Eleanor stumbles on their letters and divorce is discussed, but honor and ambition win out. Franklin promises he will never see Lucy again.
But Franklin and Lucy do meet again, and again they fall in love. As he prepares to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turns to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor is unable to give.
Ellen Feldman brings a novelist's insight to bear on the connection of these three compelling characters. Franklin and Lucy did finally meet, across the divide of his illness and political ascendancy, her marriage and widowhood. They fell in love again. As he prepared to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turned to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor was unable to give.
Drawing on recently discovered materials to re-create the voice of a woman who played a crucial but silent role in the Roosevelt presidency, Lucy is a remarkably sensitive exploration of the private lives behind a public marriage. Reading group guide included.
Amazon reviewer:An utterly absorbing novel about a famous political marriage and an epic infidelity.
On the eve of World War I, Assistant Secretary of the Navy Franklin Delano Roosevelt, fiercely ambitious and still untouched by polio, falls in love with his wife's social secretary, Lucy Mercer. Eleanor stumbles on their letters and divorce is discussed, but honor and ambition win out. Franklin promises he will never see Lucy again.
But Franklin and Lucy do meet again, and again they fall in love. As he prepares to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turns to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor is unable to give.
Ellen Feldman brings a novelist's insight to bear on the connection of these three compelling characters. Franklin and Lucy did finally meet, across the divide of his illness and political ascendancy, her marriage and widowhood. They fell in love again. As he prepared to run for an unprecedented third term and lead America into war, Franklin turned to Lucy for the warmth and unconditional approval Eleanor was unable to give.
Drawing on recently discovered materials to re-create the voice of a woman who played a crucial but silent role in the Roosevelt presidency, Lucy is a remarkably sensitive exploration of the private lives behind a public marriage. Reading group guide included.
June 10, 2019
A couple of years ago, I visited the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt and Presidential Library in Hyde Park, NY. I enjoyed the visit and picked up this novel, LUCY, in the gift shop.
For this work of historical/biographical fiction, the author seemingly did her homework. She performed a lot of research on the Roosevelts (Franklin and Eleanor), and she did an amazing job stepping into the shoes of and writing from the point of view of Lucy, the woman who worked for Eleanor but had an affair with Franklin. Taken from letters and other informational resources, the author pieced together the "romance" between Franklin and "The Lovely Miss Mercer," as she was known in their circles. She also took some luxury with facts to weave parts of the story together.
Unfortunately, their romance is rather bland (at least as it's presented), and that probably partially lends itself to the time. What was "scandalous" back then is hardly anything today. I got about halfway through this novel and had to call it quits. It just wasn't engaging enough for me; I couldn't feel their passion or love to even care. The novel seemed void of emotion. Additionally, the author assumes we know everything about the Roosevelt or U.S./WWII history, so when a reference is made, we're supposed to understand what it implies. I know this novel can't contain everything, but it should provide some a little more detail if something is going to be brought up or referenced that isn't common knowledge in history texts.
While well-written, I'd have to say this novel is mainly for true enthusiasts of FDR, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Lucy Mercer.
For this work of historical/biographical fiction, the author seemingly did her homework. She performed a lot of research on the Roosevelts (Franklin and Eleanor), and she did an amazing job stepping into the shoes of and writing from the point of view of Lucy, the woman who worked for Eleanor but had an affair with Franklin. Taken from letters and other informational resources, the author pieced together the "romance" between Franklin and "The Lovely Miss Mercer," as she was known in their circles. She also took some luxury with facts to weave parts of the story together.
Unfortunately, their romance is rather bland (at least as it's presented), and that probably partially lends itself to the time. What was "scandalous" back then is hardly anything today. I got about halfway through this novel and had to call it quits. It just wasn't engaging enough for me; I couldn't feel their passion or love to even care. The novel seemed void of emotion. Additionally, the author assumes we know everything about the Roosevelt or U.S./WWII history, so when a reference is made, we're supposed to understand what it implies. I know this novel can't contain everything, but it should provide some a little more detail if something is going to be brought up or referenced that isn't common knowledge in history texts.
While well-written, I'd have to say this novel is mainly for true enthusiasts of FDR, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Lucy Mercer.
September 25, 2023
The author herself points out that the emphasis, when describing the book as "historical fiction" belongs on the noun and not the adjective. But Ellen Feldman also chose to have Lucy Mercer, Franklin Roosevelt's mistress, be the narrator. I found this a little strange because it tends to make me read the opinions and thoughts of the narrator more like history than story.
That said, it's important to point out that the subject of the book necessarily has to include history. But the book is a love story, just written with a lot of context. The book is kind to Lucy, Franklin, and Eleanor; none are judged harshly. (It would otherwise have been unreadable.) This is ignoring the fact that the fictional Lucy sometimes seems to have the opinion that Franklin's polio was a sort of punishment for their affair.
I didn't learn much that I didn't already know about Roosevelt, the Great Depression, or the Second World War. But it's not unreadable as a love story.
That said, it's important to point out that the subject of the book necessarily has to include history. But the book is a love story, just written with a lot of context. The book is kind to Lucy, Franklin, and Eleanor; none are judged harshly. (It would otherwise have been unreadable.) This is ignoring the fact that the fictional Lucy sometimes seems to have the opinion that Franklin's polio was a sort of punishment for their affair.
I didn't learn much that I didn't already know about Roosevelt, the Great Depression, or the Second World War. But it's not unreadable as a love story.
November 6, 2025
An interesting glimpse into the life of Lucy Mercer Rutherford and how her connection with FDR affected both his personal and political life. The greatest strength of the writing was the vivid characterization of Lucy, Franklin, and Eleanor. Their vitality made the narrative more compelling than it otherwise would have been- not because the story itself was bland, but because the writing was rambling and disjointed. That may have been an intentional choice; with the book written from Lucy's perspective, looking back over her life from her deathbed, having her reminiscences wander chronologically would make sense. Nonetheless that sometimes made for difficult reading as one could get lost in the timeline, and the narrative often jumped from topic to topic very abruptly. I found some of the sentences to be oddly constructed, and had to go back and reread a line more than once to figure out exactly what it was trying to say.
March 25, 2021
Lucy
This is a fictionalize account of the relationship between Franklin D. Roosevelt and Lucy Mercer using recently discovered materials along with research. The story is told by Lucy.
On the eve of World War I prior to his bout with polio, Roosevelt falls in love with his wife's social secretary, Lucy Mercer. Eleanor discovers their letters, divorce is discussed, but doesn't happen as Roosevelt promises he will never see Lucy again. However, they do come together again years later as he runs for his third term.
By having Lucy as the narrator in this account using the author's literary license, Lucy is essentially a positive character who provides FDR with the love and affection that Eleanor does not and Eleanor is portrayed as a capable, intelligent, staid somewhat emotionally cold individual and FDR is viewed through his lover's eyes thus a bit glorified.
This is a fictionalize account of the relationship between Franklin D. Roosevelt and Lucy Mercer using recently discovered materials along with research. The story is told by Lucy.
On the eve of World War I prior to his bout with polio, Roosevelt falls in love with his wife's social secretary, Lucy Mercer. Eleanor discovers their letters, divorce is discussed, but doesn't happen as Roosevelt promises he will never see Lucy again. However, they do come together again years later as he runs for his third term.
By having Lucy as the narrator in this account using the author's literary license, Lucy is essentially a positive character who provides FDR with the love and affection that Eleanor does not and Eleanor is portrayed as a capable, intelligent, staid somewhat emotionally cold individual and FDR is viewed through his lover's eyes thus a bit glorified.
December 12, 2017
This is apparently a well researched and entertaining novel. It is classified as fiction so I wonder how much of it was true. Although I am too young to remember FDR, I, of course, studied his presidency as part of our country's history when a student. I was not aware of his involvement with Lucv. I am reminded by this author that he was a very charismatic man as well as a capable leader. He had to deal with not only the depression years but also WWII. Since his wife was perhaps unable to be supportive in ways FDR needed, he had a need for a person such as Lucy. We are always shocked when present day presidents are told of having other women in the life, but obviously, it is not really a new habit for a president. Obviously, I enjoyed the book!
September 2, 2017
I will admit that I don't know much about the history between WW1 and WW2, so didn't know anything about FDR and his affair with Lucy Mercer. In fact, I didn't know much about FDR at all. It was nice to get a bit of an idea of his personality and character from this book.
It was quite well written, but not a page turner - it didn't keep pulling me back to know more. But it was interesting enough to make me want to finish it, too.
Living only a couple of hours from Warm Springs, it makes me put this on the top of places that I really would love to visit to know about its history and how it played such an integral part in the story of FDR.
It was quite well written, but not a page turner - it didn't keep pulling me back to know more. But it was interesting enough to make me want to finish it, too.
Living only a couple of hours from Warm Springs, it makes me put this on the top of places that I really would love to visit to know about its history and how it played such an integral part in the story of FDR.
April 8, 2019
Feldman engaged the reader by sharing Lucy Mercer's perspectives on her interactions a with Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Spans FDR's time as the Navel Undersectretary and his influence and leadership through his Presidency until his death. Covers war, public works projects as well as Eleanor's social service work and commitment to FDR.
Acknowledges the many admirers in FDR's life and presents a culture where mistresses are accepted and the President's image and health issue are all managed behind the scenes.
Recommended as an interesting glimpse into FDRs' world, those around him, and the culture and challenges at time in the United States.
Acknowledges the many admirers in FDR's life and presents a culture where mistresses are accepted and the President's image and health issue are all managed behind the scenes.
Recommended as an interesting glimpse into FDRs' world, those around him, and the culture and challenges at time in the United States.
July 6, 2020
I loved this book. Admittedly, it's fiction but the author did a great job at researching the players and providing insight into each of them: Lucy Mercer who accepted a position helping Eleanor Roosevelt long before she was First Lady and of course FDR - long before he was President. I knew there was another woman in his life but I had no idea of the depth of their feelings for each other - not to mention a concern for protecting FDRs family.
Now I need to read this story from Eleanor's perspective.
Now I need to read this story from Eleanor's perspective.
September 7, 2020
The truth is so much more interesting, but this was an ok novelization of the affair between Lucy Mercer, Elanor Roosevelt's social secretary and FDR. This started in 1914, and came to an abrupt halt when Eleanor discovered a stash of love letters between the two in FDR's suitcase. They were able to reignite their affair towards the end of his life with the help of his daughter Anna to the consternation of Eleanor! Lucy was even present when FDR died. The writing in this was a tad flat, but it was a quick read that kept me (mostly) interested.
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