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President Hamilton: A Novel of Alternative History
Alexander Hamilton lies wounded and feverish after a deadly duel that ended the life of Vice President Burr. Hovering near death, he catches a glimpse of what lies ahead – and sees a Civil War that will consume a generation and poison America’s future. This vision compels him to return to the political arena. He sets his eyes on the Senate, and then the White House, enlisting former allies and reconciling with old enemies in his quest to become President and crush slavery. Overcoming great odds while facing down enemies at home and abroad, Hamilton moves steadily toward his goal - but there are some who will stop at nothing to derail the President’s crusade for liberty. Will they succeed? President Hamilton reintroduces us to the founding generation – the brilliant, crafty Thomas Jefferson, the diminutive genius James Madison, and professional curmudgeon John Adams – and brings on the next generation of American leaders – Henry Clay, John C. Calhoun, John Quincy Adams, and Andrew Jackson – in a lively epic of alternative history that begins with the famous duel at Weehawken and rewrites the history of the Nineteenth Century. Can Hamilton persuade the Southern states to change their course? Can his powers of persuasion move the conscience of a nation? Can one man change history?
- GenresAlternate History
653 pages, Paperback
Published June 16, 2021
9 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Lewis Ben Smith
7 books41 followersLewis Smith is a pastor, historian, teacher, husband, father of twins, and a third degree black belt in Uechi-Ryu karate. He is an avid collector of Indian artifacts and a veteran of the U.S. Navy. His first novel, THE TESTIMONIUM, was written in 2012 and published in 2014. His next novel, THE REDEMPTION OF PONTIUS PILATE, was released on May 19, 2015. His third novel, MATTHEW'S AUTOGRAPH, was released in December of 2015. He currently has one work being reviewed for publication and is working on his fifth novel.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
October 7, 2021
When my attention was first drawn to this book, I was immediately curious. Who, in this day and age, isn’t intrigued by the question of what might have happened if Alexander Hamilton had survived his duel with Aaron Burr on July 11, 1804? There was no chance of me letting this book pass by, so I marshalled the considerable power of my local bookstore to get a copy into my hands. The day it arrived, I immediately began to devour it.
When I finished the book, I had mixed feelings. I adore the overlying theme and story, of the United States being pushed to engage the war against slavery generations earlier than it would have happened. Definitely a worthy cause to be fighting for, and who better than Alexander Hamilton to lead the way? And I was also struck by the parallels between our own history and this alternate universe – just when the greatest achievement is completed (a Constitutional amendment banning any more slave states from entering the Union), the architect of that achievement is gunned down by someone who opposes everything said architect is trying to achieve. It doesn’t take a genius to see the similarity to the end of the Civil War, when President Abraham Lincoln was gunned down just as victory had been achieved. The battle for liberty is not without its bloodshed. Smith weaved a fascinating tale – persuasion and encouragement, faith and hope, all in the pursuit of cleansing the nation of its original sin. History does not repeat, but it often rhymes.
Some other things that I very much enjoyed:
- The sprinkling of figures well-known in our own history throughout the story, some of them meeting far different fates. Andrew Jackson, Sam Houston, John C. Calhoun, Winfield Scott, just to name a few. It’s so interesting to see how different things came to be for them in this new version of events. Even the deaths of people like Eliza and Madison happening at different times, owing to different events in their lives, was a great touch. The ripples of history at work.
- Hamilton making peace with his many opponents. Who would have thought that Alexander Hamilton, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison could all peacefully coexist with each other? Very nice touch.
- James Madison beating the crap out of John C. Calhoun with his cane. Madison is this tiny little guy, and yet he unleashes holy hell on Calhoun in the story’s tragic climax. Loved it!
That said, I had some issues with the story. To begin with, I was not terribly impressed with the frequent appearance of Hamilton lyrics throughout the book. I completely understand that Smith is grateful for Lin-Manuel Miranda’s work in inspiring the interest of so many people in the Founding Generation – who isn’t? I myself am one of those people. Still, I think it would have been best to confine that gratitude to the dedication page. The story that is being told ought to be strong enough to stand on its own merits without constantly trotting out lines from the musical.
I also found the whole plot-point of “Washington and Laurens’ ghosts visit Hamilton in his dreams to warn him of the Civil War if slavery isn’t handled” rather cliché. The story implies that it was divine intervention that saved Hamilton at the duel with Burr, so wouldn’t it make more sense to have the warning to be a bit more nebulous? Perhaps just flashes of what would come if the issue of slavery isn’t resolved – a devastating war that would have Americans shedding the blood of their fellow Americans, the disease of prejudice and racism continuing to poison the country, etc. That would have been more than enough to get the point across without the corniness of Hamilton talking to the ghost of his dead BFF and pseudo-dad.
Also, speaking of Laurens and Hamilton’s friendship – I could have done very well without the line about how Hamilton was never sexually attracted to Laurens and how the very idea repulsed him. I know one can claim that the sentiment just comes from the time period, but it really felt like it was just a potshot at the many musical fans who shipped Hamilton and Laurens. The author wants to portray Hamilton and Laurens’ relationship during the Revolution as them being just BFFs? Fine, go right ahead. It’s a legitimate interpretation of their relationship, even if not the sole interpretation. There was no need to inject homophobia into the story, none whatsoever.
Again, I greatly enjoyed seeing this alternative take of how the politics of the early 19th century might have unfolded. The U.S. manages to avoid a disastrous war with Great Britain and instead turn around and solidly spank a divided Spain and annex both Florida and Texas into the Union. Without the devastating losses suffered in the War of 1812 plus better fiscal management, it seems realistic enough to me that the war with Spain and the subsequent cleanup and treaty (including $10 million going to Spain for Florida and Texas) was pulled off without breaking the bank. And watching Hamilton slowly convert the people around him to his views regarding slavery and converting slave economies to wage economies was utterly fascinating.
However, all of this led to the story being rather one-sided, neglecting many other aspects of Hamilton’s life and the lives closest to him. Eliza is essentially a B-character here, existing only to coo over Hamilton. No attention is given to what she might achieve first while Hamilton is politicking as a Senator, and then as First Lady. The women of this era were involved in politics, even if only in the informal sense. Dolley Madison’s “Wednesday Night Squeezes” were not just occasions for socializing. There was a lot of politicking going on. Women worked to sound out each other about their husbands’ positions in order to better bolster their own menfolk’s work. And Dolley wasn’t even the first to do so. A lot of this went on during the early days of the Republic, much of which Eliza Hamilton would have been witness to (and probably participated in). And yet we see her doing nothing of the sort to aid Hamilton in his crusade. She looks after the children and is a virtual nonentity until Hamilton remembers that she exists. Eliza is remembered in our history as one of the United States’ earliest philanthropists. Does she achieve none of that because Hamilton survives longer? Similarly, the Hamilton children are virtual stick figures for all of the attention that is given to them, with the exception of Angelica Hamilton, who manages to recover from the mental break she suffered in the wake of Philip Hamilton’s death.
In the end, I enjoyed most of the story for what it was, but I still feel like it could have been rounded out to be so much more, and not have been confined to just the war and politics. We could have had a much more complex world that could have echoed the inclusiveness Hamilton was fighting for, seeing many different people come together working toward (or against) a common goal. Still, nonetheless, a very enjoyable story.
When I finished the book, I had mixed feelings. I adore the overlying theme and story, of the United States being pushed to engage the war against slavery generations earlier than it would have happened. Definitely a worthy cause to be fighting for, and who better than Alexander Hamilton to lead the way? And I was also struck by the parallels between our own history and this alternate universe – just when the greatest achievement is completed (a Constitutional amendment banning any more slave states from entering the Union), the architect of that achievement is gunned down by someone who opposes everything said architect is trying to achieve. It doesn’t take a genius to see the similarity to the end of the Civil War, when President Abraham Lincoln was gunned down just as victory had been achieved. The battle for liberty is not without its bloodshed. Smith weaved a fascinating tale – persuasion and encouragement, faith and hope, all in the pursuit of cleansing the nation of its original sin. History does not repeat, but it often rhymes.
Some other things that I very much enjoyed:
- The sprinkling of figures well-known in our own history throughout the story, some of them meeting far different fates. Andrew Jackson, Sam Houston, John C. Calhoun, Winfield Scott, just to name a few. It’s so interesting to see how different things came to be for them in this new version of events. Even the deaths of people like Eliza and Madison happening at different times, owing to different events in their lives, was a great touch. The ripples of history at work.
- Hamilton making peace with his many opponents. Who would have thought that Alexander Hamilton, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison could all peacefully coexist with each other? Very nice touch.
- James Madison beating the crap out of John C. Calhoun with his cane. Madison is this tiny little guy, and yet he unleashes holy hell on Calhoun in the story’s tragic climax. Loved it!
That said, I had some issues with the story. To begin with, I was not terribly impressed with the frequent appearance of Hamilton lyrics throughout the book. I completely understand that Smith is grateful for Lin-Manuel Miranda’s work in inspiring the interest of so many people in the Founding Generation – who isn’t? I myself am one of those people. Still, I think it would have been best to confine that gratitude to the dedication page. The story that is being told ought to be strong enough to stand on its own merits without constantly trotting out lines from the musical.
I also found the whole plot-point of “Washington and Laurens’ ghosts visit Hamilton in his dreams to warn him of the Civil War if slavery isn’t handled” rather cliché. The story implies that it was divine intervention that saved Hamilton at the duel with Burr, so wouldn’t it make more sense to have the warning to be a bit more nebulous? Perhaps just flashes of what would come if the issue of slavery isn’t resolved – a devastating war that would have Americans shedding the blood of their fellow Americans, the disease of prejudice and racism continuing to poison the country, etc. That would have been more than enough to get the point across without the corniness of Hamilton talking to the ghost of his dead BFF and pseudo-dad.
Also, speaking of Laurens and Hamilton’s friendship – I could have done very well without the line about how Hamilton was never sexually attracted to Laurens and how the very idea repulsed him. I know one can claim that the sentiment just comes from the time period, but it really felt like it was just a potshot at the many musical fans who shipped Hamilton and Laurens. The author wants to portray Hamilton and Laurens’ relationship during the Revolution as them being just BFFs? Fine, go right ahead. It’s a legitimate interpretation of their relationship, even if not the sole interpretation. There was no need to inject homophobia into the story, none whatsoever.
Again, I greatly enjoyed seeing this alternative take of how the politics of the early 19th century might have unfolded. The U.S. manages to avoid a disastrous war with Great Britain and instead turn around and solidly spank a divided Spain and annex both Florida and Texas into the Union. Without the devastating losses suffered in the War of 1812 plus better fiscal management, it seems realistic enough to me that the war with Spain and the subsequent cleanup and treaty (including $10 million going to Spain for Florida and Texas) was pulled off without breaking the bank. And watching Hamilton slowly convert the people around him to his views regarding slavery and converting slave economies to wage economies was utterly fascinating.
However, all of this led to the story being rather one-sided, neglecting many other aspects of Hamilton’s life and the lives closest to him. Eliza is essentially a B-character here, existing only to coo over Hamilton. No attention is given to what she might achieve first while Hamilton is politicking as a Senator, and then as First Lady. The women of this era were involved in politics, even if only in the informal sense. Dolley Madison’s “Wednesday Night Squeezes” were not just occasions for socializing. There was a lot of politicking going on. Women worked to sound out each other about their husbands’ positions in order to better bolster their own menfolk’s work. And Dolley wasn’t even the first to do so. A lot of this went on during the early days of the Republic, much of which Eliza Hamilton would have been witness to (and probably participated in). And yet we see her doing nothing of the sort to aid Hamilton in his crusade. She looks after the children and is a virtual nonentity until Hamilton remembers that she exists. Eliza is remembered in our history as one of the United States’ earliest philanthropists. Does she achieve none of that because Hamilton survives longer? Similarly, the Hamilton children are virtual stick figures for all of the attention that is given to them, with the exception of Angelica Hamilton, who manages to recover from the mental break she suffered in the wake of Philip Hamilton’s death.
In the end, I enjoyed most of the story for what it was, but I still feel like it could have been rounded out to be so much more, and not have been confined to just the war and politics. We could have had a much more complex world that could have echoed the inclusiveness Hamilton was fighting for, seeing many different people come together working toward (or against) a common goal. Still, nonetheless, a very enjoyable story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2021
Although I am not a history buff, and am probably one of the few people who haven't seen Hamilton the Musical, I knew I had to give this book a read. Lewis Ben Smith has successfully crafted a piece of historical fiction that brings to life some of the key players in our nation's birth and early years. The alternative (hi)story flowed so well that I found myself stopping to research the characters and their true roles in our nation's history as compared to the novel. The cause of liberty, and the ideal of all men being created equal, is as relevant a topic today as it was during the days of our founding fathers. If you like history, are drawn to the topic of equality, or just like Lewis Ben Smith's other books, you need to read this one, as well. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
March 5, 2022
Absolutely loved this book!
December 30, 2021
Impossible to put down.
This is a marvelous work of historical fiction that makes one wonder and long for the possibility of a life lost too soon. If Alexander Hamilton had not been gunned down by Aaron Burr, who knows what remarkable contributions he would have made to this country? Anyone who enjoys politics, history and a well spun yarn will enjoy this novel. I could not recommend it more.
This is a marvelous work of historical fiction that makes one wonder and long for the possibility of a life lost too soon. If Alexander Hamilton had not been gunned down by Aaron Burr, who knows what remarkable contributions he would have made to this country? Anyone who enjoys politics, history and a well spun yarn will enjoy this novel. I could not recommend it more.
October 22, 2022
In this brilliantly thought-out alternative history novel, Alexander Hamilton survives the duel against Aaron Burr and becomes fully grateful to God for saving his life. Following this, Hamilton (spoiler alert) becomes president!! He then continues to make some wonderful changes, and the fascinating story unfolds full of encouragement, clever mirrors to our real history, faith and hope, and thoughtful persuasion. Lewis Smith is a fantastic storyteller, and any reader will immediately become engrossed in President Hamilton. The voice is precise, natural, and rich, making for an easy and entertaining read.
I truly enjoyed seeing the lives of historical figures and discovering their new fates in this alternative history. I'm not a huge history buff, BUT I know Lewis is, and his immense knowledge is clear in this novel. However, it doesn't read like a history book. Yes, Lewis is brilliant and has deep historical knowledge, but there is also a web of creativity and vivid storytelling that makes this FUN and interesting while also being thought-provoking. I LOVE Hamilton the musical (I mean, who doesn't?) and I found this book a great ode to the musical while also being original.
Definitely recommend! It's a fast, fun, intriguing, creative, and intellectually stimulating read that anyone would enjoy!
I truly enjoyed seeing the lives of historical figures and discovering their new fates in this alternative history. I'm not a huge history buff, BUT I know Lewis is, and his immense knowledge is clear in this novel. However, it doesn't read like a history book. Yes, Lewis is brilliant and has deep historical knowledge, but there is also a web of creativity and vivid storytelling that makes this FUN and interesting while also being thought-provoking. I LOVE Hamilton the musical (I mean, who doesn't?) and I found this book a great ode to the musical while also being original.
Definitely recommend! It's a fast, fun, intriguing, creative, and intellectually stimulating read that anyone would enjoy!
October 18, 2023
Lin Manuel Miranda’s musical inspired a surge of historical fiction novels about Alexander Hamilton over the past decade. I have read several of those novels, and many were quite good, but President Hamilton might be my favorite. This is an alternate history romp where Hamilton survives his duel with Burr and dedicates his life to ending slavery to prevent the American Civil War. Smith recasts all the major figures within America’s first and second generation into new roles, including Madison, Clay, and John Quincy Adams. History buffs will delight at every beat and try to anticipate what he’ll come up with next.
Hamilton’s quest to end slavery transforms the book into a political drama. Smith articulates intelligent political and military arguments for every side of the issue and the book reminded me of Spielberg’s Lincoln film several times. This book was very creative, well researched, and had excellent prose. Highly recommended.
Hamilton’s quest to end slavery transforms the book into a political drama. Smith articulates intelligent political and military arguments for every side of the issue and the book reminded me of Spielberg’s Lincoln film several times. This book was very creative, well researched, and had excellent prose. Highly recommended.
July 14, 2022
This was a full circle moment for me getting the book. I ordered it on Alexander’s 217th anniversary (July 12th), received on the 19th (day before my birthday, I’m on the 20th) and finished it 1 year to the day (218th). I liked how it had the bird spare Alexander and he the bullet grazed him instead of it taking his life and he is fighting for his life since it gave him a second chance (like a rebirth). I liked how it had Alexander sworn in, that was cool! This is one book that’s hard to put down. Well worth the read! It’s a nice take on what would have happened if Aaron Burr didn’t cut Alexander Hamilton’s life short and what Alexander could’ve done if he had more time. I have seen the musical and it is amazing! It is sooo good and sooo surreal! I hope Lin-Manuel Miranda checks out Lewis’ take on it (I know he’s been so busy)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2022
Lewis Ben Smith does a great job telling a tale of what a Alexander Hamilton presidency could have been like. It's revisionist history at its best. The book brings up controversial topics that are a part of the American history experience and shows them raw. I highly recommend reading this novel.
November 3, 2023
Love you but it’s painful to read.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews