Member Reviews
The House of Lincoln is a wonderful historical fiction which shines a light on the culture of the time period of Abraham Lincoln's place in politics. I will admit that my knowledge of Abraham Lincoln came primarily from what I learned in school. Reading this story has brought both him and what he stood into focus. The story is told primarily from the eyes of Ana Ferreira a young Portuguese girl who has immigrated and found her self working the the Lincoln household as well as becoming a companion to Mrs. Lincoln. We experience though Ana and her friend Cal, a young free black girl, the upheaval of the time. Touching on topics of slavery, immigration, class differences, and women's rights the story is compelling.
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.
This book is an example of why I love historical fiction. A young girl, Ana, an immigrant from Madeira, sees firsthand the workings of the Underground Railroad. She becomes a helper in the household of Abraham Lincoln. She experiences the world during the Civil War, the assassination of Lincoln, and the heartbreaking aftermath of the war. It brought to mind the horrors of racism today. Will it ever end?
I would like to thank Net Galley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to review this book as an ARC. This is the story of Ana, a young Portuguese immigrant who comes to Springfield Illinois with her family in the 1840's. Ana takes a job as a "Saturday girl"to help out Mary Todd Lincoln with her house and family. The book tells the story of Ana, the Lincolns, and the people of Springfield from this time through the Civil War and into the early 1900's. It is a well researched book, and gives a lot of information on the conditions of the Black people in Illinois prior to and after the Civil War. It is not a book about Lincoln, so if you are looking for more in depth information on the President and his family, you may be disappointed. It is also very slow paced. The plot seems to plod rather than move along. There are 3 distinct stories- Ana's story as an immigrant, Lincoln's story in his quest to be President, and the story of the Black People of Springfield.To me, they did not intertwine as smoothly as I would have liked. At times it was disjointed and characters came and went without a plot line to tether them to the story. As I said, it was well researched and some of the characters were well written and engaging. Thank you again for the chance to read it.
Kudos to the research that Nancy Horan undertook.
The setting: "...Abraham Lincoln's ascendance from rumpled lawyer to U.S. President to Great Emancipator and presents Lincoln’s Midwestern home as a complex third home front of the Civil War" told through the voice of Ana Ferreira, an immigrant from Madeira. The account starts with Ana as a 14-year old, but ends with her in her late 60s.
Ana "...is offered a job in the Lincoln household assisting Mary Lincoln with their boys and with the hosting duties borne by the wife of a rising political star. Ana ... [witnesses] the evolution of Lincoln's views on equality and the Union and observes in full complexity the psyche and pain of his bold, polarizing wife, Mary. Yet, alongside her dearest friend in the Black community [Cal], Ana confronts the racial prejudice her friend encounters daily as she watches the inner workings of the Underground Railroad, and directly experiences how slavery contradicts the promise of freedom in her adopted country."
I learned a lot about the Lincolns and politics in Illinois--especially Springfield.
The book covered many years--from 1851-1909 [much of it in the 1860s and the aftermath of the Civil War]--but the narrative sped up by leaps and bounds the last 1/4 of the book.
I found many parallels with the present day--notably the issues of immigration, racism, and racial injustice. And--Lincoln won the electoral vote, but not the popular vote!
The writing was fine, Several phrases struck my fancy:
"...man, whose hair hung like pale corn tassels"
"...wore muttonchops that wrapped around his big head like shrubbery""
"...felt positively upholstered in its heavy cotton folds" [dress]
I learned much about the Civil War, Lincoln, politics {North vs South/slavery], secession, and politicians at the time {Stephen Douglas, Frederick Douglass, President Andrew Johnson], and even articles of clothing in the 1860s: pelisses, Bertha collar, Havelock caps. Add in Catholics vs. Presbyterians, interracial marriage, and much more--there's alot [maybe too much].The 1908 Springfield Race Riot, which was the impetus for the formation of the NAACP was also new to me.
I loved Ana's character, but found the book somewhat flat, slow, and disjointed.
3.25, commendable, but...
I really liked this book. The author gives insight to what was happening in Springfield, Illinois, before Lincoln became President. Told thru the eyes of a young Portuguese girl, who became a maid in the Lincoln household. She also is able to continue the story after the assassination of Lincoln. I never heard of the riots in Springfield until I read this book. She also explains in great detail the plight of slaves, and how the underground railroad worked in Springfield. The civil war really didn't help the blacks, they were still abused, treated worse then any human should've been treated. They wanted the same things as their white counterparts. Sadly, not much has changed in today's world. The only negative thing I wished the author would have completed Ana's story, you are left hanging in the ending. Other than that, if you love stories about Lincoln, and Mary, this is a good book to start with their story!
Before reading The House of Lincoln, I knew nearly nothing about Springfield, Illinois before, during, and after the Civil War, and I knew nothing about the Springfield Riot of 1908. There's actually quite a bit less Lincoln in the book than I expected from the description, but that wasn't an issue. The House of Lincoln follows the stories of a few different citizens of Springfield, Illinois from a young Portuguese immigrant to a pair of brothers working the Underground Railroad, to Mary Todd Lincoln. It's an engaging historical fiction that culminates in the chaos that was the Springfield race riot of 1908.
I continue to be impressed with the writing of Nancy Horan. She delivers another look at history in this book. There is more to the story of the devastating effects of slavery in our country than we have been taught. Nancy Horan gives us a peek into a moment in our history of which I was not aware. A worthy effort on her part.
The House of Lincoln by Nancy Horan is an interesting historical fiction. It gives a look into the lives of Abraham and Mary Lincoln in the early years.
We get to see Lincoln through the eyes of Ana Ferreira, the nanny for the Lincoln family. Ana who with her family have been forced to leave Madeira, Portugal.
Historical facts, back story of Madeira Island was interesting, Lincoln's personal beliefs and time in office.
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the opportunity to read this book.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
The House of Lincoln by Nancy Horan brings to life the period before, during, and after the Civil War. We experience history through the eyes of a Portuguese immigrant girl, Ana Ferreira, whose family settles in Springfield, Illinois. Ana develops a close friendship with Cal, a young Black girl. The two girls explore Springfield together at a time when the Underground Railroad is very active in central Illinois and Abraham Lincoln is busy establishing his career. As they grow older, the girls become very aware of racial tensions and how their choices in life are very different because of their heritage. At the age of 14, Ana takes a job with the Lincoln family to assist Mary Lincoln. We experience a more personal side of Mary Todd Lincoln as she deals with her traveling husband and the loss of her son. After the Civil War ends, the Lincolns barely have time to celebrate before Lincoln’s assassination. I highly recommend this book to readers who appreciate historical fiction. Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an advance copy of this book.
I love historical fiction and Lincoln has alway fascinated me., so I was excited to read this book. Honestly, I was a little disappointed. I had a hard time getting into this book for some reason. I found the characters vanilla- lacking depth. To me I felt like I was reading a history book.
As a lover of historical fiction this was very heavy in the historical part. Lots of history, which was interesting but I felt slowed down the read. There wasn't a lot of character development or investment but still a few interesting story from a unique perspective. Just not a quick and easy read.
2.5 stars: Having loved previous books by Horgan (Loving Frank, Under the Wide and Starry Sky), this one was a miss for me. By using three different viewpoints (Mary Lincoln, her nanny and servant Ana, a Portuguese refugee, and freed slaves living in Springfield, IL), it just felt as if the story skimmed the surface. I did not learn anything new about Lincoln, but I did learn quite a bit about Springfield. Frankly, I would have liked more of a story focused on the race riots at the turn of the century - might’ve made a stronger story, rather than using many many decades across one book.
The House of Lincoln Review
The House of Lincoln is a captivating tale that paints a vivid picture of the injustices of slavery and racism in history. While the story is a work of fiction, it includes several elements that ring true to life. The author's creative approach to the subject matter makes for an engaging read that will leave you thoroughly entertained and enlightened.
Storytelling & Characters
The House of Lincoln is an enthralling tale narrated in the third person. It is fitting as it allows readers to experience the story through the protagonist's eyes while maintaining a comfortable distance due to the presence of historical figures. The main character, Anna, is an outsider, hailing from the Portuguese island of Madeira and settling in Springfield, IL. As a reader, I found her relatable, and her character growth was impressive.
The novel is set before the Civil War, a time of slavery and racism, and Anna witnesses Cal's heroic efforts to help runaway slaves. Initially, Anna hesitates, fearing for her safety, but she soon realizes that she must do what is right and not let fear dictate her actions. As the story progresses, Anna becomes more aware of the social and racial disparity around her, making her a compelling character.
Abraham Lincoln, one of the most iconic figures in American history, is also portrayed in a refreshing light. The author showcases Lincoln's personal life as a husband and father and his professional life as a hardworking lawyer representing the underprivileged. The author also delves into the making of the Emancipation Proclamation, providing readers with a deeper understanding of this crucial moment in American history.
Conflict and Themes
The narrative revolves around the rift among individuals caused by slavery and racial differences. This is exemplified by the inhabitants of Springfield, highlighting the discrepancy between races. Even the politicians are divided into opposing camps, with Abraham Lincoln leading one side. The discord between Mary Lincoln and her sister, triggered by their conflicting ideologies on slavery, adds another layer of complexity to the story.
Overall Reading Enjoyment
Exploring the topic of slavery and the struggles endured by those affected can be challenging. However, amidst the injustice and hate, this book also illuminates the compassion and empathy displayed by certain individuals.
This literary work provides a valuable addition to gaining insight into the behind-the-scenes happenings during Abraham Lincoln's time and the people in his inner circle. Their unwavering commitment and selflessness ultimately contributed to the creation of the Emancipation Proclamation.
As a lover of historical fiction, I relish the opportunity to delve into the past and uncover the truth behind significant events.
Favorite Quotes
“We all trail ghosts. What matters is what we do now.”
“Fear makes fools of us all.”
“Some people are willfully ignorant. They aren’t stupid, they simply choose to be oblivious. That way they aren’t responsible for anything that goes wrong.”
I received a complimentary copy of the book, and all views expressed in this review are my own. A big thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for providing me with an e-ARC.
I received a digital ARC from Sourcebooks Landmark through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This was an interesting read. I learned a lot, but think that at times the story was lost to historical facts that were given, I liked the fact that this story was focused on Lincoln’s road to presidency, the Civil War, and it’s aftermath. It is a time in our history that is not written about much.
The interesting life story of Lincoln starting from his parents roots thru his career as a lawyer culminating in his presidency.
An interesting perspective on Abraham Lincoln, his family, and the community in which they lived.
In this latest work of historical fiction by author Nancy Horan, Ana Ferreira is a young immigrant girl who is living with her family in Springfield, Illinois, in 1851. They had fled Madeira, Portugal, with a group of others when the far more populous Catholic residents there forced Presbyterian converts like the Ferreiras from their homes. The refugees initially travelled to the island of Trinidad, but were pressed into service harvesting in the sugar cane fields, a brutal and hardscrabble life. When offered refuge in the United States, they seized the opportunity and found themselves in Springfield. A very different climate from that to which they were accustomed, and a language that none initially knew, but there were ways to find work, make money, and create a new life. Ana’s father, a hard worker and optimistic by nature, searches for a new path for himself and his family, while Ana’s mother dearly misses her old home and the family whom she loves deeply but who rejected her when she embraced a new faith. Ana and her two siblings work to adapt to their new life, and Ana in particular quickly learns English and becomes her family’s interpreter and runner of errands. One day, when she and her new best friend Cal, are roaming the square downtown and go to pick up a pair of her father’s boots from the cobbler shop of William Donnegan, they encounter three nasty men who are looking for a man and think that Mr. Donnegan knows where he is. Mr. Donnegan looks at the picture they present, and says he has never seen the man. The men don’t believe him particularly, but when even a large amount of cash doesn’t sway Mr. Donnegan they leave the shop. As they do, Ana sees a pile of pelts in a corner of the shop start to slide, and a hand come out from within the pile to steady it. She and Cal are rushed out of the store, and Ana asks her friend about what just happened. Cal, who is herself part black and regularly on the receiving end of discrimination by racist members of the Springfield community, identifies the trio of men as slave catchers, refuses to say whether or not she too saw the hand, and asks Ana not to say anything to anyone about what just happened. Ana promises to stay silent. This incident, added to the occasions when she sees Cal treated differently than she herself is treated by certain shopkeepers, makes Ana aware that America does not welcome or treat all immigrants in the same fashion, and not everyone has the same pathways available to them in their pursuit of the American Dream. Ana comes to work in the Lincoln home, helping Mary Lincoln with her sons while her husband pursues his work and ambitions, and the reader comes to know the Lincoln family through Ana’s eyes.
The main character in House of Lincoln is not, in fact, Lincoln….instead, it is Ana, Donnegan, and their families and friends, as well as at times Mary Todd Lincoln and the Lincoln family. While the character of Ana is fictional, it is inspired by real immigrants from Madeira who were exiled because of their religious beliefs and found their way to Springfield. William Donnegan was real, a free African American who lived with his family in Springfield when they left Kentucky. He was actively involved in helping people fleeing slavery and oppression in the Southern states on their journeys to freedom in the North. Mary Lincoln has been remembered through history for the losses in her life (her mother, her husband and three of her four sons), from her many physical and mental health issues, and is not one of the more revered First Ladies in US history. I learned more about her, from her early life and its difficulties, to the strong bond with her sisters and the strained relations with siblings and other relatives who sided with the Confederacy. She wasn’t the easiest of women to live with, I suspect, but I developed a bit more sympathy for why she behaved as she did. As the author herself was raised in Springfield, she was able to bring to the story much of its history, including events like the Springfield Race Riot of 1908, of which I had never heard. I don’t believe I ever knew just how much of a microcosm of the divided US Springfield, Illinois, was in Lincoln’s time, a hub of the Underground Railroad as well as a place harboring many who favored the discriminatory Black Laws. Lincoln himself was certainly not born an abolitionist, but was an observer of life around him and was disquieted with many of the inequities that he saw. The story does not end with his assassination, as the lives of the other characters in the book continued onward. The Civil War, which Ana, Donnegan, their families and friends live through as do the Lincolns, did not permanently solve the problem of racism, nor is our country free of it today. But, just as there were then, there are people of all colors and from all walks of life who continue to work towards that goal.
I found the characters engaging, I certainly learned many details of that time and place with which I was unfamiliar, and would recommend this novel to anyone who has enjoyed Ms Horan’s previous titles (including Loving Frank) or who enjoy historical fiction, especially those that seek to flesh out actual historical figures by seeing their lives through the perspective of people in their lives. Titles like The Paris Wife by Paula McLain, An American Beauty by Shana Abe, and Her Hidden Genius and other novels by Marie Benedict spring to mind. Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for allowing me access to an advanced reader’s copy, in exchange for my honest review.
2.5
This was a letdown for me. I was a history and a women's studies major so this book sounded like I was going to love it. I just did not like the over all story. I was a little bored, to be honest.
Informative for me. I had no idea of many of the events and opinions surrounding Lincoln and his hometown of Springfield.
Told through the eyes of several Springfield citizens that knew Lincoln, this shed a lot of misconceptions for me.
The book is well written and I enjoyed the differing points of view as well as learning about the major historical events. Very well researched.
Nancy Horgan once again shows her talent with compositing a story that is the perfect balance of well-researched history with the right amount of fiction to keep the reader engaged. In The House of Lincoln, we learn about the personal story of the lives of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln and their family as well as the story of Springfield, Illinois. Through the eyes of Ana Ferreira, a young Portuguese immigrant, we learn of the personal impact of the social changes and challenges in Springfield at the time leading up to the Civil War until after Lincoln’s assasination.
I can definitely appreciate the amount of research that went into this book. It is told from the immigrants perspective and the characters were very well written. This is not my usual genre, but I can appreciate good work when I read it.