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The Hamilton Affair
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the American Revolution, and featuring a cast of legendary characters, The Hamilton Affair tells the sweeping, tumultuous, true story of Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler, from passionate and tender beginnings to his fateful duel on the banks of the Hudson River.
Hamilton was a bastard and orphan, raised in the Caribbean and desperate for legitimacy, who became one of the American Revolution’s most dashing—and improbable—heroes. Admired by George Washington, scorned by Thomas Jefferson, Hamilton was a lightning rod: the most controversial leader of the new nation. Elizabeth was the wealthy, beautiful, adventurous daughter of the respectable Schuyler clan—and a pioneering advocate for women. Together, the unlikely couple braved the dangers of war, the perils of seduction, the anguish of infidelity, and the scourge of partisanship that menaced their family and the country itself.
Hamilton was a bastard and orphan, raised in the Caribbean and desperate for legitimacy, who became one of the American Revolution’s most dashing—and improbable—heroes. Admired by George Washington, scorned by Thomas Jefferson, Hamilton was a lightning rod: the most controversial leader of the new nation. Elizabeth was the wealthy, beautiful, adventurous daughter of the respectable Schuyler clan—and a pioneering advocate for women. Together, the unlikely couple braved the dangers of war, the perils of seduction, the anguish of infidelity, and the scourge of partisanship that menaced their family and the country itself.
408 pages, ebook
First published August 2, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,349 reviews
December 31, 2016
3 stars.
August 6, 2017
This is for fans of Hamilton-the-Musical or a solid historical narrative focusing on female characters or historical romance. It's all of those things. The author worked on this when Hamilton was still a lesser known founding father instead of an award winning musical. There is some remarkable overlap in specific lines, but this is because they both used the same primary sources! You'll find some of the same content in Lafayette in the Somewhat United States, and, I imagine, Alexander Hamilton. Good research will find the same information. Just to get that out of the way, as some reviews have said something like, "She ripped off Hamilton!"
It reminds me of the book Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, where Elizabeth Gilbert explains where ideas come from and how sometimes they occur simultaneously. An amazing phenomenon, displayed here.
Of course the focus is different here. There is more time spent on the childhoods of Alexander and Eliza, and the author spent time in the West Indies while she researched. And while politics are still in the story, the focus is more on the relationships. I feel like I also learned more about the Schuyler family and Eliza's time as a daughter, sister, wife, and widow.
The narrator, Coleen Marlo, grew on me. At first she'd end sentences with a whisper and while I don't believe she is the same narrator who I complained about before who did the same thing, it is a personal dislike of mine. Either she stopped doing it or I got used to her because after I got into the story itself, it stopped sticking out to me.
I received an audio review copy of this book from Brilliance Audio, in exchange for an honest review.
It reminds me of the book Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, where Elizabeth Gilbert explains where ideas come from and how sometimes they occur simultaneously. An amazing phenomenon, displayed here.
Of course the focus is different here. There is more time spent on the childhoods of Alexander and Eliza, and the author spent time in the West Indies while she researched. And while politics are still in the story, the focus is more on the relationships. I feel like I also learned more about the Schuyler family and Eliza's time as a daughter, sister, wife, and widow.
The narrator, Coleen Marlo, grew on me. At first she'd end sentences with a whisper and while I don't believe she is the same narrator who I complained about before who did the same thing, it is a personal dislike of mine. Either she stopped doing it or I got used to her because after I got into the story itself, it stopped sticking out to me.
I received an audio review copy of this book from Brilliance Audio, in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2018
They say that the victors write the history. This seems to hold true as much as in politics as in military action. A good example of both can be found in "The Hamilton Affair". In deed, this seems to become the theme of the book halfway through as the characters are developed. Maybe 'matured' is a better word, for these characters were real, in the historical sense.
According to the author, all events were factual, as were the characters, save one. The author's explanation for including this character, who morphed into a leading role, was more than just artistic license. It was quite clever, actually, as it helped to portray personalities of those involved without trying to rewrite history. It was how they interacted with this person that demonstrated their views of the people and events around them.
The protagonist in this novel was actually Elizabeth Schuyler, who became the wife of Alexander Hamilton and bore him many children. This fine lady not only raised her brood and two orphans but helped to establish and run the New York Orphan Asylum as well. Though the story shifts back and forth between the famous husband and wife, and he seems to overshadow her at times, it can still be argued that she ended up playing the leading role.
At first glance the title can be misleading, for we have come to think of 'affair' as unfaithfulness through word association as well as current world events. While adultery surfaces in the story, it is not the center of the story, for the words 'Hamilton affair' can be linked with so many aspects of the politics of the new country called The United States.
Four men that I grew up admiring as founding fathers of our country were shown to be anything but noble. It was they who tried to rewrite history for themselves. General Gates stole another man's credit for winning the Battle of Saratoga. Monroe, Jefferson, and Burr may have started out with pure intent but they became opportunists who would have been right at home in the 21st century political arena. These men had it out for Hamilton and attacked him at every turn. Ironically, it was Hamilton who was the true patriot. For example, while Hamilton worked to support a school for freed slaves Jefferson had plenty of his own, including one he kept as a mistress. Another example was Hamilton's love for his children's' future country was fighting the political battles to get the country on a firm financial foundation while Burr could teach today's politicians a thing or two about selling political offices and favors.
"The Hamilton Affair", though a novel, should be required reading in some circles, such as government.
According to the author, all events were factual, as were the characters, save one. The author's explanation for including this character, who morphed into a leading role, was more than just artistic license. It was quite clever, actually, as it helped to portray personalities of those involved without trying to rewrite history. It was how they interacted with this person that demonstrated their views of the people and events around them.
The protagonist in this novel was actually Elizabeth Schuyler, who became the wife of Alexander Hamilton and bore him many children. This fine lady not only raised her brood and two orphans but helped to establish and run the New York Orphan Asylum as well. Though the story shifts back and forth between the famous husband and wife, and he seems to overshadow her at times, it can still be argued that she ended up playing the leading role.
At first glance the title can be misleading, for we have come to think of 'affair' as unfaithfulness through word association as well as current world events. While adultery surfaces in the story, it is not the center of the story, for the words 'Hamilton affair' can be linked with so many aspects of the politics of the new country called The United States.
Four men that I grew up admiring as founding fathers of our country were shown to be anything but noble. It was they who tried to rewrite history for themselves. General Gates stole another man's credit for winning the Battle of Saratoga. Monroe, Jefferson, and Burr may have started out with pure intent but they became opportunists who would have been right at home in the 21st century political arena. These men had it out for Hamilton and attacked him at every turn. Ironically, it was Hamilton who was the true patriot. For example, while Hamilton worked to support a school for freed slaves Jefferson had plenty of his own, including one he kept as a mistress. Another example was Hamilton's love for his children's' future country was fighting the political battles to get the country on a firm financial foundation while Burr could teach today's politicians a thing or two about selling political offices and favors.
"The Hamilton Affair", though a novel, should be required reading in some circles, such as government.
August 15, 2017
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I have always been a history lover. Give me a factual, scholarly, historical tome or a historical fictional story of a time, place or person and I can sit and disappear into that time or place for hours.
Due to the Broadway musical “Hamilton” many people are being introduced or reintroduced to one of the brilliant founding architects of our republic and THE HAMILTON AFFAIR by Elizabeth Cobbs is an enjoyable historical fiction overview of Alexander and Elizabeth Hamilton’s lives and their love.
The beginning of the book alternates between Alexander’s harsh life on St. Croix as a boy. He and his brother were declared bastards as they were born into a second marriage by his mother. He refused to let anything stop his ambitions and arrived in the colonies to educate and better himself after his mother’s death. In the alternate chapters we get to meet Elizabeth “Eliza” Schuyler and her privileged family of wealth. From her life on the family farm and love of animals to her very open and honest opinions.
When the two come together in marriage, the book follows the couple through the remainder of the Revolutionary War and the author does an informative, yet entertaining, job of describing the establishment of our federal government with all of Hamilton’s achievements and also all of the political intrigue and mud-slinging. This is balanced well by the author’s descriptions of the Hamilton home life, children, extended family and friends. Hamilton’s affair that almost destroyed his marriage and most definitely put a stop to his further political ambitions is also covered.
I really enjoyed this book. It is well written and covered Alexander and Elisabeth’s lives in an easy to read historical fiction format.
Thank you to Skyhorse Publishing, Arcade Publishing and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have always been a history lover. Give me a factual, scholarly, historical tome or a historical fictional story of a time, place or person and I can sit and disappear into that time or place for hours.
Due to the Broadway musical “Hamilton” many people are being introduced or reintroduced to one of the brilliant founding architects of our republic and THE HAMILTON AFFAIR by Elizabeth Cobbs is an enjoyable historical fiction overview of Alexander and Elizabeth Hamilton’s lives and their love.
The beginning of the book alternates between Alexander’s harsh life on St. Croix as a boy. He and his brother were declared bastards as they were born into a second marriage by his mother. He refused to let anything stop his ambitions and arrived in the colonies to educate and better himself after his mother’s death. In the alternate chapters we get to meet Elizabeth “Eliza” Schuyler and her privileged family of wealth. From her life on the family farm and love of animals to her very open and honest opinions.
When the two come together in marriage, the book follows the couple through the remainder of the Revolutionary War and the author does an informative, yet entertaining, job of describing the establishment of our federal government with all of Hamilton’s achievements and also all of the political intrigue and mud-slinging. This is balanced well by the author’s descriptions of the Hamilton home life, children, extended family and friends. Hamilton’s affair that almost destroyed his marriage and most definitely put a stop to his further political ambitions is also covered.
I really enjoyed this book. It is well written and covered Alexander and Elisabeth’s lives in an easy to read historical fiction format.
Thank you to Skyhorse Publishing, Arcade Publishing and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2016
As a huge fan of the musical Hamilton, I picked up this fictional rendering of the events hoping for an interesting read. Although it seems clear that the author did some research, the pedestrian prose reminded me of so-so historical fiction aimed at children or young adults. I just wasn't impressed. Better to read Ron Chernow's biography, which I thought was excellent.
March 3, 2018
I thought the characters in The Hamilton Affair were very stereotypical and flat. The chapters rotate POV between Hamilton and Eliza. Eliza's chapters were annoying and read like something a middle school girl would be interested in. Overall, The Hamilton Affair gets 2 stars. The writing was decent, but Eliza was dull, dull, dull.
DNF 24%
August 19, 2016
There is now a renewed interest in the life of one of America's most remarkable national leaders of the Revolutionary/Early Republic era: Alexander Hamilton. This is largely due to the success of the Broadway musical "HAMILTON."
In "The Hamilton Affair", Elizabeth Cobbs does a remarkable job of revivifying the lives of both Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth Schuyler, who hailed from one of the most distinguished families in New York. In Alexander Hamilton, we have a man of humble origins (born out of wedlock in 1757 on the Caribbean island of Nevis) who arrived in America in late 1773 to study -- first at Elizabethtown Academy in New Jersey and later at King's College (now known as Columbia University) before joining the Continental Army during the War of Independence. Hamilton went from serving as an artillery officer with the New York militia, seeing action in a number of key battles in New York and New Jersey, to joining General George Washington's staff as one of his aides. He finished the war as a colonel in command of 3 infantry battalions which played a key role in securing the decisive victory over British forces in the Battle of Yorktown in 1781.
The novel traces out the arc of both Hamilton's subsequent career and the lives of Elizabeth Schuyler, her parents and siblings (in particular her older sister Angelica and her English husband John Church), and the children they had together. Hamilton's and Schuyler's marriage, though an enduring and loving one, was not without its challenges and tragedies. Cobbs does a masterful job in bringing that aspect of their lives to the surface, as well as the remarkable achievements made by Hamilton in the creation and subsequent promotion of the U.S. Constitution, as well as the nation's first Secretary of the Treasury under President George Washington.
Reading "THE HAMILTON AFFAIR" has deepened my respect and admiration for this man who --- among the pantheon of our Founding Fathers -- is deserving of wider recognition. (In fact, I would rank Alexander Hamilton far above Thomas Jefferson, who -- despite his own achievements --- proved to be a sly and cunning political operator with a thin skin, who often used his friends (e.g. James Monroe) as proxies to heap dirt on his political opponents, like Hamilton -- and was very much a hypocrite.)
In "The Hamilton Affair", Elizabeth Cobbs does a remarkable job of revivifying the lives of both Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth Schuyler, who hailed from one of the most distinguished families in New York. In Alexander Hamilton, we have a man of humble origins (born out of wedlock in 1757 on the Caribbean island of Nevis) who arrived in America in late 1773 to study -- first at Elizabethtown Academy in New Jersey and later at King's College (now known as Columbia University) before joining the Continental Army during the War of Independence. Hamilton went from serving as an artillery officer with the New York militia, seeing action in a number of key battles in New York and New Jersey, to joining General George Washington's staff as one of his aides. He finished the war as a colonel in command of 3 infantry battalions which played a key role in securing the decisive victory over British forces in the Battle of Yorktown in 1781.
The novel traces out the arc of both Hamilton's subsequent career and the lives of Elizabeth Schuyler, her parents and siblings (in particular her older sister Angelica and her English husband John Church), and the children they had together. Hamilton's and Schuyler's marriage, though an enduring and loving one, was not without its challenges and tragedies. Cobbs does a masterful job in bringing that aspect of their lives to the surface, as well as the remarkable achievements made by Hamilton in the creation and subsequent promotion of the U.S. Constitution, as well as the nation's first Secretary of the Treasury under President George Washington.
Reading "THE HAMILTON AFFAIR" has deepened my respect and admiration for this man who --- among the pantheon of our Founding Fathers -- is deserving of wider recognition. (In fact, I would rank Alexander Hamilton far above Thomas Jefferson, who -- despite his own achievements --- proved to be a sly and cunning political operator with a thin skin, who often used his friends (e.g. James Monroe) as proxies to heap dirt on his political opponents, like Hamilton -- and was very much a hypocrite.)
March 17, 2019
Seeing historical characters as people living as best they can during uncertain times in their lives. That's the special quality of this story.
December 10, 2018
I have to stop. This book is due at the library, I haven't had the will to go on past page one hundred in a month, there is no motivation. So this is a page 0-100 review, make of it what you will.
I can't help but be angry that the marvelous idea was wasted on a subpar book. This has to be riding the hype of Hamilton; why else would there suddenly be a novel about a founding father from the Caribbean who died young? When this book was first announced, I was elated. I had my boss (I am employed through my library) put it on hold for me as soon as she was done, before it went through circulation.
My first hint should've been that she, a Hamilton lunatic as well, passed it on before finishing it. Innocent little Kamryn still received it with glee, only to be met by sore disappointment.
The characters felt like cookie-cutters, as if the information was taken from the first Wiki page. Alex was obsessed with making something of himself, his thoughts never expanded past ambition and the ladies. Elizabeth was "edgy" because all she did was question her parents' political thoughts and was oh-so-uncomfortable with being a perfect revolutionary lady. Angelica was nothing but a flirt who read to impress men and score a suitor.
So I'm sorry. I'm so sorry I couldn't finish this, but it felt like an empty and sad mode of torture when I love these historical figures so much.
I can't help but be angry that the marvelous idea was wasted on a subpar book. This has to be riding the hype of Hamilton; why else would there suddenly be a novel about a founding father from the Caribbean who died young? When this book was first announced, I was elated. I had my boss (I am employed through my library) put it on hold for me as soon as she was done, before it went through circulation.
My first hint should've been that she, a Hamilton lunatic as well, passed it on before finishing it. Innocent little Kamryn still received it with glee, only to be met by sore disappointment.
The characters felt like cookie-cutters, as if the information was taken from the first Wiki page. Alex was obsessed with making something of himself, his thoughts never expanded past ambition and the ladies. Elizabeth was "edgy" because all she did was question her parents' political thoughts and was oh-so-uncomfortable with being a perfect revolutionary lady. Angelica was nothing but a flirt who read to impress men and score a suitor.
So I'm sorry. I'm so sorry I couldn't finish this, but it felt like an empty and sad mode of torture when I love these historical figures so much.
May 13, 2016
I read this novel in an early draft several years back, and I am so happy to see Elizabeth Cobbs bring it to fruition and publication. I've noticed several people wondering about any influence the musical might have had on the book, and this is amusing to me because I know that The Hamilton Affair was completed long before the musical came out. A great story attracts more than one creative mind! Highly recommend this book.
May 30, 2019
The Hamilton Affair
A truly interesting book. . . .now I have to read others to get a sense of context and “truth”. . . I’ve never understood the attraction of duels as a means of settling anything! Shoot fish in a barrel, more likely. Archaic and stupid. Not a bit of honor about it, and how could such a smart man have been willing to sign up for it? With a wife and all those kiddos? Crazy wicked. And fresh on the heels of No. 1 son’s duel. . . yikes. There is no sense that makes this honorable nor worth a life. Aaron Burr, be damned. I hope your every day thereafter was miserable. How can anyone feel a victory over shooting a person standing still for your shot????
All that said, this is a topic worthy of many books, from all angles. Bring them on! I give this 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
A truly interesting book. . . .now I have to read others to get a sense of context and “truth”. . . I’ve never understood the attraction of duels as a means of settling anything! Shoot fish in a barrel, more likely. Archaic and stupid. Not a bit of honor about it, and how could such a smart man have been willing to sign up for it? With a wife and all those kiddos? Crazy wicked. And fresh on the heels of No. 1 son’s duel. . . yikes. There is no sense that makes this honorable nor worth a life. Aaron Burr, be damned. I hope your every day thereafter was miserable. How can anyone feel a victory over shooting a person standing still for your shot????
All that said, this is a topic worthy of many books, from all angles. Bring them on! I give this 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
January 19, 2019
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.
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.
May 13, 2020
I absolutely love this musical so much but this book wasn't the best. I only enjoyed it when I read about Alexander and Eliza. I enjoyed learning more about the affair and how it affected Eliza but I was struggling to make it through this book. Maybe it wasn't just for me but I do love the musical. The musical is AMAZING. It's so good and one of my favorites.
July 13, 2019
Although not what I expected, this was an enjoyable read. The chapters alternate between the point of view of Eliza and Alexander. The novel, although fictitious, does include real events, and the author does a good job of blending the two in order to create a fantastic read. If you love American history, this novel is for you.
I was hesitant to read this book because the title connotes a focus on a scandal...so I assumed it was more of a romance novel rather than a historical fiction; however, the affair was a small part of "The Hamilton Affair". The novel actually focuses more on the relationship of Eliza and Hamiltion through the American Revolution and after. The author uses their relationship to explain the events around them during this time period. There was more history than romance.
Based on the title itself, I would have assumed this story was not for young readers at all. Yet, this story was fairly clean and does not go into many sexually explicit details. But, because of the topic at hand, it is for a mature audience---high school and older.
I was hesitant to read this book because the title connotes a focus on a scandal...so I assumed it was more of a romance novel rather than a historical fiction; however, the affair was a small part of "The Hamilton Affair". The novel actually focuses more on the relationship of Eliza and Hamiltion through the American Revolution and after. The author uses their relationship to explain the events around them during this time period. There was more history than romance.
Based on the title itself, I would have assumed this story was not for young readers at all. Yet, this story was fairly clean and does not go into many sexually explicit details. But, because of the topic at hand, it is for a mature audience---high school and older.
July 28, 2016
While I didn't expect this to be amazing by any means, I certainly wasn't expecting it to be as horrible as it was. I'll give it a half star for the content and another half for a brilliantly timed book release that coincides with the frenzy of the (very good) musical. Other than that, The Hamilton Affair was nothing but bad prose, bad character development, bad dialogue, bad pacing, and bad organization. Bad bad bad.
August 4, 2017
Very enjoyable novel about Alexander Hamilton and Eliza Schuyler Hamilton. It made me wish I remembered more about the Revolutionary War from 8th Grade.
August 31, 2016
My family and I can't get enough of Hamilton, the soundtrack is constantly playing here. We love the music and the story and listened to the audiobook 'Hamilton: The Revolution', about the making of the musical. We also have a hardcover copy of the book, which is beautiful. Lin Manuel-Miranda is a genius, I adore what he's done with Alexander Hamilton's story.
I wanted to know more about Hamilton's life but I wasn't sure I wanted to commit to reading Ron Chernow's 818 page biography. I thought this fictionalization might satisfy my desire to learn more about the man and his life.
I'm glad I read Elizabeth Cobbs's book but I can say without a doubt, I wouldn't have been able to finish it if I didn't have the soundtrack playing in my head while I was reading. I loved reading the lines in her book that were the same as lyrics in the songs from the musical. I loved learning more of the back story and details about the major events in A. Ham's life, some of my favorite parts of the book were the exchanges between Alexander and Eliza. I also enjoyed learning more about Eliza's father Philip Schuyler.
The author moved the story forward by giving us brief glimpses into the lives of Alexander and Eliza. The narration is in the third person and chapters alternate between St. Croix and New York State showing us some of A and E's early life and upbringing. But once the two of them meet the shifting becomes more chronological and less geographical. I did find the shifting was a little distracting but only at the very beginning of the book.
I'm glad I read this, I still want to read more about the major players in Hamilton's life. I picked up 'My Theodosia' by Anya Seton and started reading that as well. I like reading various authors different characterizations of these historical figures.
I would like to read something that has a greater emotional depth, I think the one character that comes to life most in 'The Hamilton Affair' is Ajax Manly, who also happens to be a complete fictionalization. I'm sure it's much more difficult to create a dynamic character when you have to restrict yourself to what is known in the historical record, rather than creating details and experiences out of whole cloth.
I wanted to know more about Hamilton's life but I wasn't sure I wanted to commit to reading Ron Chernow's 818 page biography. I thought this fictionalization might satisfy my desire to learn more about the man and his life.
I'm glad I read Elizabeth Cobbs's book but I can say without a doubt, I wouldn't have been able to finish it if I didn't have the soundtrack playing in my head while I was reading. I loved reading the lines in her book that were the same as lyrics in the songs from the musical. I loved learning more of the back story and details about the major events in A. Ham's life, some of my favorite parts of the book were the exchanges between Alexander and Eliza. I also enjoyed learning more about Eliza's father Philip Schuyler.
The author moved the story forward by giving us brief glimpses into the lives of Alexander and Eliza. The narration is in the third person and chapters alternate between St. Croix and New York State showing us some of A and E's early life and upbringing. But once the two of them meet the shifting becomes more chronological and less geographical. I did find the shifting was a little distracting but only at the very beginning of the book.
I'm glad I read this, I still want to read more about the major players in Hamilton's life. I picked up 'My Theodosia' by Anya Seton and started reading that as well. I like reading various authors different characterizations of these historical figures.
I would like to read something that has a greater emotional depth, I think the one character that comes to life most in 'The Hamilton Affair' is Ajax Manly, who also happens to be a complete fictionalization. I'm sure it's much more difficult to create a dynamic character when you have to restrict yourself to what is known in the historical record, rather than creating details and experiences out of whole cloth.
May 27, 2016
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC of this book, and also being somewhat witness to its development as, over the last few years, I heard Cobbs talking about her writing this book. I'm so happy it's finding an audience now! Cobbs is simply a stellar historian-- she teaches at Texas A&M and taught at SDSU-- and she weaves in countless historical facts with her story of Hamilton.
This is really the story of two affairs-- Hamilton's affair with his wife, and with his mistress. We meet Hamilton as a youngster, the bastard child of a shopkeeper in the tropics, whose best friend is a slave. When his mother dies, young Hamilton must basically work his way up from nothing, sometimes assisted by scholarships, and prove himself in Washington's army. Then we also meet Hamilton's wife, Eliza Schuyler, who unlike most of her ladylike peers, enjoyed working in hospitals and making herself useful. Eliza was not put off by Hamilton's low birth and they married. The story is told in alternating points of view, so you cannot help but be sympathetic to all parties. Though I really wanted to hate Hamilton for putting it all on the line for the sake of his young mistress, I couldn't. And making you feel like you've known people since their youth and have taken this journey alongside them is a pretty magical accomplishment for an author.
This is really the story of two affairs-- Hamilton's affair with his wife, and with his mistress. We meet Hamilton as a youngster, the bastard child of a shopkeeper in the tropics, whose best friend is a slave. When his mother dies, young Hamilton must basically work his way up from nothing, sometimes assisted by scholarships, and prove himself in Washington's army. Then we also meet Hamilton's wife, Eliza Schuyler, who unlike most of her ladylike peers, enjoyed working in hospitals and making herself useful. Eliza was not put off by Hamilton's low birth and they married. The story is told in alternating points of view, so you cannot help but be sympathetic to all parties. Though I really wanted to hate Hamilton for putting it all on the line for the sake of his young mistress, I couldn't. And making you feel like you've known people since their youth and have taken this journey alongside them is a pretty magical accomplishment for an author.
July 18, 2016
First sentence: The boy frowned, pressed a folded handkerchief to his nose, and scanned the crowd for the third time.
Premise/plot: The Hamilton Affair is historical fiction starring Alexander Hamilton and his wife Eliza. The novel has alternating narrators; readers get to spend time with both Alexander and Eliza. The book leans more towards romance than political drama. I think that's something readers should know from the start. Readers expecting the book to perfectly complement the Broadway musical may be a bit disappointed. Angelica is essentially absent from the book. (She's mentioned now and then, mainly because Alexander borrows money from her husband. Her husband seems more developed as a character than Angelica.) This should not be seen as a novelization of the musical--far from it. With the right expectations, readers can delight in it, I'm sure!
My thoughts: The Hamilton Affair was an almost for me. I wanted to love it so much, yet, in the end it wasn't love for me. Reading is subjective, I remember that always and so should you. But for me it felt both slow and rushed. Not an easy combination perhaps, but, in this case I think that's my honest assessment. The parts I wanted to take time in and explore and really just enjoy the moment felt rushed or passed over altogether. And then there were times it felt sluggish and like there was nothing at all happening to move the plot forward.
I also expected Alexander Hamilton to have more charisma on the page. I wanted to feel what Eliza felt--I wanted to feel helpless. I didn't quite get that. It felt more removed than that. Still, I am glad I read it. And some chapters I really did enjoy.
Premise/plot: The Hamilton Affair is historical fiction starring Alexander Hamilton and his wife Eliza. The novel has alternating narrators; readers get to spend time with both Alexander and Eliza. The book leans more towards romance than political drama. I think that's something readers should know from the start. Readers expecting the book to perfectly complement the Broadway musical may be a bit disappointed. Angelica is essentially absent from the book. (She's mentioned now and then, mainly because Alexander borrows money from her husband. Her husband seems more developed as a character than Angelica.) This should not be seen as a novelization of the musical--far from it. With the right expectations, readers can delight in it, I'm sure!
My thoughts: The Hamilton Affair was an almost for me. I wanted to love it so much, yet, in the end it wasn't love for me. Reading is subjective, I remember that always and so should you. But for me it felt both slow and rushed. Not an easy combination perhaps, but, in this case I think that's my honest assessment. The parts I wanted to take time in and explore and really just enjoy the moment felt rushed or passed over altogether. And then there were times it felt sluggish and like there was nothing at all happening to move the plot forward.
I also expected Alexander Hamilton to have more charisma on the page. I wanted to feel what Eliza felt--I wanted to feel helpless. I didn't quite get that. It felt more removed than that. Still, I am glad I read it. And some chapters I really did enjoy.
May 10, 2019
The story starts in 1768 with Alexander Hamilton at the age of 11 in St. Croix, Caribbean. When the story starts, it is concentrated on him and his family's hardship. It starts very interesting. His father leaves when he is 9. He helps his mother at her store. Once she is taken by the plaque, he and his brother are left penniless.
At the age of 16 he arrives in NYC. He attends King’s College (now Columbia University) on “scholarship and quick wits.”
After graduation he plays a major role in the American Revolution. This leads him to one of the generals by the name Philip Schuyler. At his home in Albany, NY, he meets young Elizabeth Schuyler.
Their paths cross again in Morristown, NJ, at Mr. & and Mrs. Washington’s house dancing night. Despite the difference of birthright, he succeeds in marrying Elizabeth.
With his professional ambitions, he succeeds in convincing George Washington in giving him a command of his first battalion.
Once the story is concentrated on Elizabeth’s births and Hamilton’s battles and his affair, it becomes a very dry story. It didn't hold my interest in further reading this encyclopedia-like story.
@FB/BestHistoricalFiction
At the age of 16 he arrives in NYC. He attends King’s College (now Columbia University) on “scholarship and quick wits.”
After graduation he plays a major role in the American Revolution. This leads him to one of the generals by the name Philip Schuyler. At his home in Albany, NY, he meets young Elizabeth Schuyler.
Their paths cross again in Morristown, NJ, at Mr. & and Mrs. Washington’s house dancing night. Despite the difference of birthright, he succeeds in marrying Elizabeth.
With his professional ambitions, he succeeds in convincing George Washington in giving him a command of his first battalion.
Once the story is concentrated on Elizabeth’s births and Hamilton’s battles and his affair, it becomes a very dry story. It didn't hold my interest in further reading this encyclopedia-like story.
@FB/BestHistoricalFiction
September 7, 2021
3.5 stars
This book was an enjoyable read. It is the story of both Alexander and Eliza Hamilton and their lifelong love affair that took place against the backdrop of the American revolution and the birth of America.
You will come to appreciate the debt this country owes him. Since he was outlived by many of his enemies history did not give credit where credit was do. Hamilton was the architect of our banking system and treasury department. In fact much of what we take for granted in our federal government evolved from his ideas. Without Hamilton this country may not have survived to become the union of states we have today.
The book is not just about the public man but also his private side. He was a devoted father and husband. He was also a loyal friend. In this book we get to learn about his childhood in St. Croix and his years studying in America prior to the revolution. We get a glimpse into the forces and circumstances that formed the man.
Though not as detailed as My Dear Hamilton it is still a thorough fictional bio. If you read no other book on Hamilton you will get a good understanding of the man and his times.
This book was an enjoyable read. It is the story of both Alexander and Eliza Hamilton and their lifelong love affair that took place against the backdrop of the American revolution and the birth of America.
You will come to appreciate the debt this country owes him. Since he was outlived by many of his enemies history did not give credit where credit was do. Hamilton was the architect of our banking system and treasury department. In fact much of what we take for granted in our federal government evolved from his ideas. Without Hamilton this country may not have survived to become the union of states we have today.
The book is not just about the public man but also his private side. He was a devoted father and husband. He was also a loyal friend. In this book we get to learn about his childhood in St. Croix and his years studying in America prior to the revolution. We get a glimpse into the forces and circumstances that formed the man.
Though not as detailed as My Dear Hamilton it is still a thorough fictional bio. If you read no other book on Hamilton you will get a good understanding of the man and his times.
December 31, 2018
Prior to seeing the musical, I had a hazy idea that Hamilton was not in the "boys club" that became the founding fathers. After all, he was never elected President. The Broadway show made me curious and four books later, I have to say how much I enjoyed Cobb's novel.
Solid and unpretentious, The Hamilton Affair humanizes all the key players. The games of politics were as dirty then as it is now.
I especially loved reading about the Hamiton's at home, his devotion to the family, as well as his daring role in the revolution. His courage and passion in all parts of his life, make Hamilton truly larger than life.
The book gives the reader a rudimentary snapshot of life during the Revolutionary War. Family sacrifices, like Eliza's father and mother, the Schuyler's and Washington's are described, bringing new meaning to the fight for liberty.
In the states, we learned about the Revolution, the stories about Valley Forge, the different battles, British soldiers taking over the local homes, but it is taught by rote and equally flat. The giant undertaking of breaking with the mother country, risking everything one hold's dear, the extreme chutzpah to demand independence and then the arduous task of organizing a government from scratch, with no clear example to model- the sheer enormity is both exhausting and fantastical. Yet, they did it. And most American's don't even think about it beyond a fireworks display or President day sales.
The book was a terrific primer to give the players substance. I wish it was not as rushed. I liked losing myself in Cobb's eighteen century New York, or Philadelphia.
Many have complained that the "affair" is not mentioned until the last third of the book. I think Hamilton's entire life was an "affair."
First, it was the stain of his birth, his fight to lead a battalion rather than take a desk job, the marriage above his station, his insistence of his ideas for the creation of the budding nation, the infamous duels, the list goes on. I suspect his entire life Hamilton was treated with disdain, his work ridiculed and his affairs, whether business or personal, were fodder for the gossips.
Solid and unpretentious, The Hamilton Affair humanizes all the key players. The games of politics were as dirty then as it is now.
I especially loved reading about the Hamiton's at home, his devotion to the family, as well as his daring role in the revolution. His courage and passion in all parts of his life, make Hamilton truly larger than life.
The book gives the reader a rudimentary snapshot of life during the Revolutionary War. Family sacrifices, like Eliza's father and mother, the Schuyler's and Washington's are described, bringing new meaning to the fight for liberty.
In the states, we learned about the Revolution, the stories about Valley Forge, the different battles, British soldiers taking over the local homes, but it is taught by rote and equally flat. The giant undertaking of breaking with the mother country, risking everything one hold's dear, the extreme chutzpah to demand independence and then the arduous task of organizing a government from scratch, with no clear example to model- the sheer enormity is both exhausting and fantastical. Yet, they did it. And most American's don't even think about it beyond a fireworks display or President day sales.
The book was a terrific primer to give the players substance. I wish it was not as rushed. I liked losing myself in Cobb's eighteen century New York, or Philadelphia.
Many have complained that the "affair" is not mentioned until the last third of the book. I think Hamilton's entire life was an "affair."
First, it was the stain of his birth, his fight to lead a battalion rather than take a desk job, the marriage above his station, his insistence of his ideas for the creation of the budding nation, the infamous duels, the list goes on. I suspect his entire life Hamilton was treated with disdain, his work ridiculed and his affairs, whether business or personal, were fodder for the gossips.
February 27, 2017
*This is a 2.6 review.
Although, my job has been playing the Hamilton Soundtrack since the musical came out, I was slow on the uptake and only really listened to it a month ago. Of course, I now have Hamilton fever. I've been listening to all of the songs non-stop. Ooh, look at that, I made a joke.
Before I read Ron Chernow's Hamilton, I decided a good compromise would be Elizabeth Cobbs' The Hamilton Affair. The premise is simple: it's about Alexander Hamilton's and Elizabeth Schuyler's relationship.
Overall, it was all right but mostly, I didn't like it. It started in 1768 with Hamilton's life in St. Croix. That part was pretty interesting. I felt that Hamilton's and Eliza's separate lives were more interesting than when they finally came together. I felt that the real problem was that characters has no life to them. They seemed very cookie cutter and boring.
Ironically, the character that seemed more developed was Ajax Manly. That was because he was purely fictional so Cobbs could do more with him.
Cobbs' writing to me seemed very simplistic. I felt the history was reduced to its very basic elements. She was definitely influenced by the musical. It seemed that the only reason why The Hamilton Affair is so popular is because of the musical. At least, it was a fast read. However, this didn't inspire me to read any more of her works.
Although, my job has been playing the Hamilton Soundtrack since the musical came out, I was slow on the uptake and only really listened to it a month ago. Of course, I now have Hamilton fever. I've been listening to all of the songs non-stop. Ooh, look at that, I made a joke.
Before I read Ron Chernow's Hamilton, I decided a good compromise would be Elizabeth Cobbs' The Hamilton Affair. The premise is simple: it's about Alexander Hamilton's and Elizabeth Schuyler's relationship.
Overall, it was all right but mostly, I didn't like it. It started in 1768 with Hamilton's life in St. Croix. That part was pretty interesting. I felt that Hamilton's and Eliza's separate lives were more interesting than when they finally came together. I felt that the real problem was that characters has no life to them. They seemed very cookie cutter and boring.
Ironically, the character that seemed more developed was Ajax Manly. That was because he was purely fictional so Cobbs could do more with him.
Cobbs' writing to me seemed very simplistic. I felt the history was reduced to its very basic elements. She was definitely influenced by the musical. It seemed that the only reason why The Hamilton Affair is so popular is because of the musical. At least, it was a fast read. However, this didn't inspire me to read any more of her works.
March 21, 2025
Alexander Hamilton was hard working and reliable even as a young child. It was nice to see that, and his progression in life; how he became the man he did in government.
Other than having a few issues with the writing style, I really enjoyed this book. My biggest gripe was with how a character would promise someone else that they would do something or explain something later, but the author would then skip several months, or even years, at the end of the chapter and we never got to see those things followed through. One example of this was when Elizabeth mistakenly called Hamilton’s black friend his slave. Hamilton told her that he would never own a slave, and that he would explain why later. They never returned to that conversation. It would have been nice to see them discuss this further.
Other than having a few issues with the writing style, I really enjoyed this book. My biggest gripe was with how a character would promise someone else that they would do something or explain something later, but the author would then skip several months, or even years, at the end of the chapter and we never got to see those things followed through. One example of this was when Elizabeth mistakenly called Hamilton’s black friend his slave. Hamilton told her that he would never own a slave, and that he would explain why later. They never returned to that conversation. It would have been nice to see them discuss this further.
July 1, 2018
Overall this was an interesting book, well researched and well presented to take you into the Hamilton family. Mostly the book focuses on Eliza, her relationship with Alexander and the ups and downs they experienced in child rearing and his infidelity.
At times the author would throw in a phrase here or there that caused me to laugh, I hate to say it- and pulled me out of the story. Some of the descriptions were just a little forced, but it wasn't bad enough that I wouldn't recommend this book. There are many pages spent devoted to the historical element and politics involved, and often those moved a bit slower than the rest of the narrative, but the path the Hamiltons blazed, the hardships they overcame, and the ultimate duel that completes Alexander's story are all quite compelling. Fans of the musical Hamilton will no doubt appreciate the setting and story and find this a great addition to reading to be done.
4 star read for fans of this story in history- would be great to read before you see the musical!
At times the author would throw in a phrase here or there that caused me to laugh, I hate to say it- and pulled me out of the story. Some of the descriptions were just a little forced, but it wasn't bad enough that I wouldn't recommend this book. There are many pages spent devoted to the historical element and politics involved, and often those moved a bit slower than the rest of the narrative, but the path the Hamiltons blazed, the hardships they overcame, and the ultimate duel that completes Alexander's story are all quite compelling. Fans of the musical Hamilton will no doubt appreciate the setting and story and find this a great addition to reading to be done.
4 star read for fans of this story in history- would be great to read before you see the musical!
October 4, 2016
Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
I have been on a Revolutionary War kick the last few years, both non-fiction and fiction, and this book fit right in. Alexander Hamilton had been something of a mystery to me other than his time as the Secretary of the Treasury and the fact that he dueled against Aaron Burr and lost. I truly enjoyed learning about his upbringing, his education, his friends, his family, his relationship with the other Founding Fathers and his ultimate demise.
I will definitely recommend to readers who enjoy historical fiction.
I have been on a Revolutionary War kick the last few years, both non-fiction and fiction, and this book fit right in. Alexander Hamilton had been something of a mystery to me other than his time as the Secretary of the Treasury and the fact that he dueled against Aaron Burr and lost. I truly enjoyed learning about his upbringing, his education, his friends, his family, his relationship with the other Founding Fathers and his ultimate demise.
I will definitely recommend to readers who enjoy historical fiction.
July 7, 2022
Alexander Hamilton died on July 12, 1804 and today is July 6th. If it had been the 12th I would have gotten goosebumps. While in my phase of reading all historical fiction about Hamilton, I put this one on the back burner because of the title. I assumed it was just about his affair and I did not care to read that. I then found out the book is about his life so I picked it up. I'm confused about the title though. It starts when Alexander is a child and when Eliza is also a child. I really enjoyed it! After reading it I had to listen to the final song in Hamilton "Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story." (on repeat)
"There's no greater threat to liberty than a crowd with torches."
"...but war takes men down roads they never imagined."
"If I ever marry, I don't want a husband I can live with. I want one I cannot live without."
"Laurens, Lafayette, and Hamilton-all roughly the same age-had become inseparable when they discovered they shared the conviction that all men should be free, including blacks."
"Some people have no other way to explain why they aren't in front or on top. Someone else must be at fault."
"No persons are more frequently wrong, than those who will not admit they are wrong."
-Francois de La Rochefoucauld
"Alcohol was bad for the kidneys but excellent for the nerves."
"Would his enemies never stop coming?"
"...and Eliza often worried that future generations would know Alexander only through the enemies who outlived him by decades and whose poison pens never stopped."
"There's no greater threat to liberty than a crowd with torches."
"...but war takes men down roads they never imagined."
"If I ever marry, I don't want a husband I can live with. I want one I cannot live without."
"Laurens, Lafayette, and Hamilton-all roughly the same age-had become inseparable when they discovered they shared the conviction that all men should be free, including blacks."
"Some people have no other way to explain why they aren't in front or on top. Someone else must be at fault."
"No persons are more frequently wrong, than those who will not admit they are wrong."
-Francois de La Rochefoucauld
"Alcohol was bad for the kidneys but excellent for the nerves."
"Would his enemies never stop coming?"
"...and Eliza often worried that future generations would know Alexander only through the enemies who outlived him by decades and whose poison pens never stopped."
March 16, 2019
Hamilton
Thoroughly enjoyed this. This was a great combination of enjoyment and education. Elizabeth Cobb did a wonderful job of telling the story of Alexander and Eliza Hamilton.
Thoroughly enjoyed this. This was a great combination of enjoyment and education. Elizabeth Cobb did a wonderful job of telling the story of Alexander and Eliza Hamilton.
January 8, 2018
This is the story of Alexander Hamilton from the time he was a small child in St. Croix until his death, told chronologically, alternating with his wife's story, also told from childhood. Although their childhoods shaped who they are, because that's how life works, the book would have been better if it had started closer to when they met, and their childhoods treated as back story, only hauled out when needed to prop up the present situation.
Once they met, the book did become more interesting, and the writing got a little better, but throughout the book there was so much telling, of dull war scenes, and so much political stuff. It is interesting, if appalling, to realize that we're still having the same squabbles as a country that we had 200 years ago. It's like we've barely made it anywhere. But the scenes that should show that are largely replaced with lots of telling.
Twice this book contained misleading foreshadowing, and I found one glaring typo (the fault of the publisher, not the author, I'm sure).
I've previously read America's First Daughter, about Jefferson's daughter, and it was interesting to see the overlap, as well as the differences, with that novel.
Finally, how the subjects of these novels feel about the issue of slavery is always interesting, and it was nice to read that Hamilton fought for the rights of free black men, had a black friend, and didn't keep slaves.
There are so many things in this book that will make for good book group discussion, but as a novel, it's just okay.
Once they met, the book did become more interesting, and the writing got a little better, but throughout the book there was so much telling, of dull war scenes, and so much political stuff. It is interesting, if appalling, to realize that we're still having the same squabbles as a country that we had 200 years ago. It's like we've barely made it anywhere. But the scenes that should show that are largely replaced with lots of telling.
Twice this book contained misleading foreshadowing, and I found one glaring typo (the fault of the publisher, not the author, I'm sure).
I've previously read America's First Daughter, about Jefferson's daughter, and it was interesting to see the overlap, as well as the differences, with that novel.
Finally, how the subjects of these novels feel about the issue of slavery is always interesting, and it was nice to read that Hamilton fought for the rights of free black men, had a black friend, and didn't keep slaves.
There are so many things in this book that will make for good book group discussion, but as a novel, it's just okay.
March 21, 2018
I enjoyed all the historical details in this, even if it did seem a little strange to see Jefferson, Adams, and Monroe as antagonists. In books like John Adams, there’s a different perspective on the relationship between Hamilton and Adams. Sometimes I wonder whether we’ll ever truly know history when so much depends on perspective and emphasis.
As a work of historical fiction, this brings history to life in an enjoyable way. St. Croix, where Hamilton was born, is vividly described. Chapters alternate between the perspectives of Alexander Hamilton and his future wife Eliza Schuyler. I liked seeing them as children and watching them grow up during the pre-Revolutionary War days. Then we see the disintegrating relationship between Great Britain and the colonies and the effects of that on Eliza’s family.
The story of Ajax Manly, a free black man who befriends Alexander, gives us another perspective on the time period. I felt for him as he struggled through life and love. His character is fictional, but he’s a perfect addition to the story because we see the differences in Alexander and Eliza through him. It was interesting to see the changes in Eliza as her relationship with Ajax grew.
I usually enjoy reading fiction more than nonfiction because fiction concentrates on thoughts and feelings. I also like to learn while reading. The Hamilton Affair combines all of that – thoughts, feelings, and history – into an enjoyable read.
As a work of historical fiction, this brings history to life in an enjoyable way. St. Croix, where Hamilton was born, is vividly described. Chapters alternate between the perspectives of Alexander Hamilton and his future wife Eliza Schuyler. I liked seeing them as children and watching them grow up during the pre-Revolutionary War days. Then we see the disintegrating relationship between Great Britain and the colonies and the effects of that on Eliza’s family.
The story of Ajax Manly, a free black man who befriends Alexander, gives us another perspective on the time period. I felt for him as he struggled through life and love. His character is fictional, but he’s a perfect addition to the story because we see the differences in Alexander and Eliza through him. It was interesting to see the changes in Eliza as her relationship with Ajax grew.
I usually enjoy reading fiction more than nonfiction because fiction concentrates on thoughts and feelings. I also like to learn while reading. The Hamilton Affair combines all of that – thoughts, feelings, and history – into an enjoyable read.
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