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A review by maryehavens
Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy: Four Women Undercover in the Civil War by Karen Abbott
3.0
This is the second "spy/ies during war" book I've read this year. This one was far more enjoyable but they both fall into the same category of "how the hell are you supposed to write this thing so it's not confusing?"
Abbott did a better job of writing the book than Rose (Washington's Spies) did. It was far more enjoyable to read and I was particularly interested in the different types of women and their roles. However, it suffered for the same issue of Rose's: a bit disorganized and tons of people. It was hard to keep track of everyone and note their importance. Multiple times I forgot who was on what side (maybe I was supposed to) and had to refer to the book jacket.
It may just be me but, as fascinating and devastating as war is, it's very difficult to write it at large. A personal memoir would suit me better but that might be a personal preference.
Overall, I thought the book was great but it's only getting 3 stars because I had to slog through it. It really deserved 3.5. I really enjoyed reading Emma/Frank's story, thought Belle largely got what she deserved in the end (hello: the war is not about you making a name for yourself), and cringed every time Elizabeth and Mary Jane had to correspond. The devastation of the Civil War is beyond my comprehension and I'm glad that this book was selected for book club so we will never forget.
Abbott did a better job of writing the book than Rose (Washington's Spies) did. It was far more enjoyable to read and I was particularly interested in the different types of women and their roles. However, it suffered for the same issue of Rose's: a bit disorganized and tons of people. It was hard to keep track of everyone and note their importance. Multiple times I forgot who was on what side (maybe I was supposed to) and had to refer to the book jacket.
It may just be me but, as fascinating and devastating as war is, it's very difficult to write it at large. A personal memoir would suit me better but that might be a personal preference.
Overall, I thought the book was great but it's only getting 3 stars because I had to slog through it. It really deserved 3.5. I really enjoyed reading Emma/Frank's story, thought Belle largely got what she deserved in the end (hello: the war is not about you making a name for yourself), and cringed every time Elizabeth and Mary Jane had to correspond. The devastation of the Civil War is beyond my comprehension and I'm glad that this book was selected for book club so we will never forget.