Gold Digger

The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor

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Pub Date 28 May 2019 | Archive Date 17 Jul 2019
Lion Heart Publishing | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles

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Description

1878, Colorado. When Lizzie Doe’s family loses everything in a fire, the twenty-year-old is forced to marry and go west to prospect a gold mine in Colorado, to send money home to her parents. Miners, unaccustomed to such delicate beauty, nickname her Baby Doe, after a newborn deer.

But Baby Doe proves herself tougher than they imagine when she finds herself abandoned, pregnant and running the mine alone. Her pluck gains the admiration of Silver King Horace Tabor, married and twice her age. In Horace Tabor, Baby Doe finds devotion and true passion. When scandal and economic ruin threatens Tabor’s life, Lizzie makes a painful choice.

Baby Doe Tabor was a real-life, deeply complex heroine, rising and falling and rising again with beguiling grit.

1878, Colorado. When Lizzie Doe’s family loses everything in a fire, the twenty-year-old is forced to marry and go west to prospect a gold mine in Colorado, to send money home to her parents. Miners...


A Note From the Publisher

978-1-7329699-0-2 (eBook)

978-1-7329699-0-2 (eBook)


Advance Praise

“Rosenberg’s rollicking Western adventure strikes gold with a gutsy, good-hearted spitfire of a heroine and action aplenty.”
—THELMA ADAMS, bestselling author of Bittersweet Brooklyn and The Last Woman Standing Gold Digger tells the true story of Lizzie

“Baby Doe” Tabor, a beautiful young woman who in 1878 marries the son of a wealthy miner in order to save her family from penury. Shrewd and stubborn, Lizzie fights back-biting Victorian society, wins and loses vast fortunes, and bests conniving politicians in her larger-than-life story. A twisting tale worthy of Mark Twain, with a big-hearted heroine at the center.
—MARTHA CONWAY, author of The Underground River

“Rosenberg’s rollicking Western adventure strikes gold with a gutsy, good-hearted spitfire of a heroine and action aplenty.”
—THELMA ADAMS, bestselling author of Bittersweet Brooklyn and The Last...


Marketing Plan

Promotional Plans

• Galleys to trade reviewers and long-lead magazines
• National press release campaign
• Regional media coverage
• Regional events and appearance by author
• Extensive ARC distribution
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• BookBub campaign
• NetGalley promotions
• Library outreach
• Strategic outreach preorder campaign to author’s considerable network of history and book lovers.

Promotional Plans

• Galleys to trade reviewers and long-lead magazines
• National press release campaign
• Regional media coverage
• Regional events and appearance by author
• Extensive ARC distribution
•...



Average rating from 153 members


Featured Reviews

Once I started reading Gold Digger I couldn’t put it down! I loved every single word written! This is one historical novel that can’t be skipped! The story of Baby Doe Tabor and the history of mining in the beautiful state of Colorado is mesmerizing and informative. Ms. Rosenberg brought to life a time and place in history that I knew very little about growing up in the South. I rooted for and cried with Baby Doe. I couldn’t begin to imagine how hard life truly was in the 1800’s out West and now I have a kernel of an idea. Thank you for taking me on this journey and I can’t wait for the adventure to continue.
Thank you for the advanced copy of Gold Digger in exchange for my complete and honest opinion.

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It’s not often I find or read books about that era between the American Civil War and World War I, so it was a happy surprise that I stumbled into reading Gold Digger:The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor.

In Gold Digger, you fall into the life of Lizzie aka Baby Doe. Baby has just been married and is off to Colorado with her new husband in the hopes of striking in big with gold mining. Things don’t go as planned, and Baby Doe finds herself husband- and child-less. What’s worse is the hate many of the townswomen are spewing on her as she fights to take care of herself and forge her own path ahead. In the end, she may find that money isn’t the most important driver in life.

Baby Doe was one of my favorite characters of the many, many books I’ve read, and what’s even cooler is that she’s modeled after a real life woman. She is smart and strong-willed and expects no less from herself than what is expected of men, which is odd for that time period. She’s a dreamer, and unafraid to provide ideas and opinions. Throughout her struggles, she fights to stay true to herself. What an inspiration for women of any age!

If you like what you’ve heard so far, be sure to add Gold Digger: The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor to you reading list; it will be available on May 28th. I’m giving this five stars, and I’m telling you, you don’t want to miss out on this woman’s trials and tribulations!

**Thank you to Rebecca Rosenberg and Netgalley for providing with a copy of this e-book. I’ve voluntarily read this book and the review expresses my own personal opinion.**

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Well-written historical fiction, recounting the remarkable story of Elizabeth McCourt, better known as Baby Doe Tabor. When a fire leaves Lizzie’s family with nothing, Lizzie is forced into a marriage of convenience and headed west in the aftermath of the gold rush era as her husband pursues wealth by managing his family’s silver mine. Harvey Doe is not prepared for the rough life of a mine owner, and falls prey to mishaps and misfortune - and several very poor choices. Lizzie is left on her own, but with her determination and ne’er fail spirit, she attracts the attention of several very powerful men, among them (married) Silver King Horace Tabor. Not one to abandon her faith and personal convictions, Lizzie remains a means of support for her family while loving the only man she shouldn’t. But when forced into a difficult decision, Lizzie’s choices will make or break their relationship. This is a good portrayal of the grit and determination of the people who settled the west, and the lawlessness and difficulties faced among the mining communities.

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Rebecca Rosenberg brings the past alive with her prose. Gold Digger, The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor is based on the life of Elizabeth McCourt Doe Tabor and obviously a great deal of background research went into the writing of this historical novel. Gold Digger takes us to Colorado mining country with the arrival of newlyweds Harvey and 'Lizzy' Elizabeth McCourt Doe in Denver by rail in April of 1878. We see Baby Doe through years of trying to help Harvey cope with life in general and the expectations of his wealthy East Coast parents, his desertion and the birth and death of their son, divorce from Harvey despite her Catholic faith and the lifetime of censure from Colorado's social class.

We are with her also through much happier times, her later marriage to Horace and the birth of her two daughters, and watch as she copes with poverty, great wealth, and back to poverty, and the death of Husband #2, Horace Austin Warner Tabor in 1899.

Baby Doe Tabor was a remarkable woman, independent to a fault, kind and generous and a remarkable helpmate to both of the men in her life. Her travels through many of the mining towns in the Colorado mountains are so well described you feel like you have been there, at that time, in the cold or the warmth of the sun. And watching Denver grow into the transportation hub of the western Rocky Mountains is an exceptional experience as well.

I received a free electronic copy of this historical novel from Rebecca Rosenberg, Netgalley and IBPA Publisher Lion Heart in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.

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An exciting look into the past at the life of Lizzie "Baby Doe" Tabor. Lizzie is determined to help her family who has lost everything as a result of a fire. Taking her to Colorado on an adventure to prospect a gold mine, Lizzie has only just begun to know the hardships that she must endure to survive.. During numerous twists and turns, Lizzie stands strong throughout it all. Author, Rebecca Rosenberg, has written a novel that has given her readers a look at the life of Baby Doe and the desperate plight that a young girl's life has taken. I highly recommend this novel to those who love a mix of history, love and adventure. I can't wait to see what else author Rosenberg has in store!

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In 1878 we come across Lizzie Doe and her husband Harvey Doe. They are on the way to Colorado to work her father-in-law's goldmine. Desperate for money to save her family from poverty, she is looking forward to this adventure. Of course, she has no idea what she would find in Colorado, as she was coming from Oshkosh, Wisconsin. A strong women, much stronger than her husband Harvey, she endures and survives the struggles that come with mining. It is silver mining that sets the stage for this novel, along with her spirit, her "true grit." Along with betrayals, adultery, abandonment, and divorce, she was a survivor. For the times, she was non-conventional, wearing men's denims, plaid shirts and boots to work at the mines next to her then husband. As a divorcee, her reputation preceded her. But she was her own person and rose above it all.

In the course of this novel, we glimpse the past of Colorado, the mining towns with name such as Central City, Leadville, just to name a few. This historical novel shares with us the "rough and tumble" world of mining. The gold/silver rush, the lawlessness of those jumping claims and what it was like to live in the West in the 1800's. Times were such that one day you were rich, the next day you were dirt poor.

From start to finish this book was hard to put down. Wonderfully researched, enjoyably written, I await eagerly what comes next from Ms. Rosenberg.. My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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I was fortunate to have received an electronic version of this book through Netgalley and the publishing company in exchange for an honest review.


This book is the definition of the saying love is pain and money doesn’t buy you everything. I honestly didn’t know what to expect from this book before jumping into it. I think that my favorite thing about this book was the writing and the resilient Baby Doe. No matter what life threw at her, she never let it get her down. Not divorces, death, or poverty. I couldn’t help but really admire her, she was so strong and I loved the privilege to have read a character who took everything in stride and did what she had to do. In a time where all she received for her actions was hate.


The scenery described in this book was beyond amazing, I definitely very much enjoyed the writing style and the setting of the story. Everything flowed out perfectly and I was transported to the places. I hope to see what the author writes next and if we will be seeing more of baby dove.


I recommend this.

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I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters are really well-rounded.
The protagonist has such voice! She is, rather than what the title suggests, a really endearing and very capable modern woman for her time.
The hardships she overcomes keeps us rooting for her success. Her marriage was one of True Love,
I highly recommend this book for anybody who loves historical fiction, those who aren’t familiar with it, and anyone who loves a great love story!
Rebecca Rosenberg is a superbly wonderful story teller, and her words just flow like a gentle river straight into our hearts.
PJ Crockett

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Rebecca Rosenberg has brought history to life in this un...put...down...able book about Baby Doe Tabor! This is the genre of book that I love to read and I was thrilled with the opportunity to read an ARC copy! This fascinating woman in American history, particularly Colorado history, was beautiful, determined, strong and most of all a survivor. She endured the gamut of difficulties that life and society threw at her because of her strong will and the love she had for Horace Tabor.
Ms. Rosenberg has captured the essence and beauty not only of Baby Doe but also of Colorado. The descriptions she writes are so vivid and incredible. I grew up in Colorado with my dad taking me to many old ghost towns in the mountains and this book brought all those places to life as bustling, crowded places that brought miners in search of their fortunes in their hunt for silver and gold. From the clear, blue skies and streams to the scents of the pines. From the hardships and reality of what mining entailed to the high society of the Denver elites, I was living this tale of ups and downs with Baby Doe.

Ms. Rosenberg built this book upon the real life of Baby Doe Tabor and the history surrounding her. It's a wonderful "look" at who she was. The research, the history, the background to the characters is all brought together in a magnificent book that reads like it could be made into a top rated movie. I didn't want the book to end. I wanted more of Baby Doe and to my surprise! There is going to be a sequel! Silver Dollar! I will be waiting with great anticipation for what happens next in Baby Doe's life!

This book exceeded all my expectations and gave me an adventure back in history that I will never forget. I love Colorado. I love the rich history of that state. Ms. Rosenberg brought all that to me in this book plus so much more. I loved the adventure!

There are passages that are so profound and speak of the talent Ms. Rosenberg has at expressing the written word.
"The Matchless was a symbol of everything they stood for; tenacity, courage, and most of all, luck. Was that why he never let it go? He kept it for her."
"Love is like a wild horse, impossible to tame," she said. "The horse takes you places you never thought you'd go. But if you hold on tight, it always leads you home."

This is the second book by Ms. Rosenberg that I've read and highly recommend both. The first one is The Secret Life of Mrs. London. I am so looking forward to her next book, too! I want to thank Ms. Rosenberg for the honor of reading her amazing novel! I would give it way more than 5 stars if possible and I highly recommend her books

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Epic love story. Fantastic depiction of late 1800s-early 1900s gold rush in Colorado. I was not familiar with Baby Doe Tabor but after reading this book I want to find out more about her life.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story of a woman determined to be independent and ask questions and stand up for herself.

It was a wild time in history, but also opulence and riches beyond compare for the lucky few. Baby Doe experiences everything from infidelity, miscarriage, betrayal, abandonment, crooks and more and swears off men and marriage.

When Horace Tabor meets Baby Doe, sparks fly (pun intended) and their love story is based on true admiration and respect. They both have big hearts and faith in human nature and each other.

I am thrilled to have discovered this California author and can’t wait to read the sequel!

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American historical fiction is not my preferred genre. While Rosenberg does provide plenty of historical context about the development of the western frontier throughout the story, the book is more about the trails of the characters. We are given a glimpse to the grit and determination of Doe Tabor as she struggled to find her way. We see how she both dismissed and embraced her beauty to succeed. We see characters who weren't afraid to make decisions and how they both reaped and suffered as a result of those actions. It was interesting to read how Senator Tabor initiated such a building boom in Colorado. Rosenberg's writing style is easy to digest and she includes excerpts from Doe Tabor's diary throughout which is a nice touch.

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Thank you NetGalley and Rebecca Rosenberg for an outstanding historical fiction.

Follow Baby Doe on her journey west to find the fortunes that prospectors all dreamed of finding. Her snivelling no good husband abandons her and her child, but Baby Doe is strong and resilient. She continues on with the work in the mines along side those who work for her.

Is Baby Doe a true Gold Digger, or she just a flat out gold digger, searching for fortunes however she can find them?


I loved how detailed the research must have been for this book, it definitely brings the characters to life.

Great read.

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Rebecca Rosenberg’s Gold Digger: The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor is the rags-to-riches-to-rags true story of Lizzie “Baby Doe” Tabor. Set against the rough and tumble Colorado silver and gold rush in the late 1800s, Gold Digger brings history to life, portraying Baby Doe as a smart, strong-willed woman fighting to survive in tumultuous times. The author vividly describes the hardships of life in the frontier towns of Colorado, the capriciousness of mining for riches, and the indomitable spirit of Baby Doe as she navigates the fortunes and misfortunes of life in such a harsh environment. Weathering a disastrous first marriage, the loss of a child, the collapse of the silver market, and the scorn of society, Baby Doe Tabor’s strength and determination leap off the page. Add this extraordinary book to your TBR list. It’s a must-read.

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I just read a terrific book. Gold Digger, The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor by Rebecca Rosenberg. It doesn't hit the market until May 28, 2019 but I suggest you put it on your TBR list. I've given it a, rare for me, 5 stars. I was offered the chance to read an advanced reader copy and I almost didn't, I vaguely knew of Baby Doe and didn't think I'd be interested. What a shame if I had passed it up. So, I voluntarily read and will review for you, with all thoughts and opinions being mine.

Gold fever hit the west when in 1848 gold nuggets were discovered. Go west young man and seek your fortune. Elizabeth 'Lizzie" McCourt is on her way to Colorado with her new husband, Harvey Doe. Harvey was a good catch, his father was mayor of Oshkosh. The downside is he's a mama's boy and she doesn't love him. The newlyweds were gifted a deed to the Fourth Of July gold mine in Central City, Colorado. A new start and a chance to help her family financially. If her family had whined for money one more time I was going to scream. Harvey goes back to Oshkosh to take care of his sick mother (yea right) and Lizzie is left to carry on and work the mine. She reminds the miners of a baby doe, it's a fun play on her name. and it sticks. She's now Baby Doe. Scandalously, she divorces Harvey and becomes a pariah to society.

Horace Tabor is a self made man. He's, of course, older than Baby and married but love doesn't care. He's such an interesting character. Made and lost fortunes but had no real head for business. The people around him were not always honest and sometimes just leaches. He and Baby are meant to be together and what a ride they had. From dead broke to having the president at your wedding back to dead broke, wow. Tabors story is as fascinating as Baby's. I did have one laugh out loud moment. Baby's brother comes to town and takes up with Oscar Wilde! It's a great section of the book.

It's obvious how much research went into this story, Ms Rosenberg did a wonderful job. We have something to look forward to, Silver Dollar, in 2020. The next chapter picks up after Tabor's death. Baby's story in no way ended there. Happy reading.

#Netgalley #LionHeartPublishing #RebeccaRosenberg #GoldDigger

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This book is well written it somewhat fictionalizes Baby Doe's life but still tells the story of a remarkable woman's life. To survive during the gold rush in half-formed towns was hard for a young woman near impossible but she did it, with and without a husband. Baby Doe was known for her beauty and style, shunned by society she still found a place for herself. One of the first woman in Colorado to file for divorce and she won it. Many men admired her and wanted her but Horace Tabor won her with his devotion and a good chance his wealth had something to do with it. This book follows her life from her first marriage to the death of Tabor, you will travel with her from the gold and silver mines to Washington D.C. to meet the President with her new husband Senator Tabor. See her triumphs and falls all with her head held high. This book inspired me to research the real woman she may not have been as perfect as the book but she sure was one hell of a woman
I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review

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My first book by #rebeccarosenbergauthor. Not sure I would like it, not always a fan of historical novel. But I really liked #golddigger that I got from #netgalley. Once I started it, I didn’t want to put it down. I would highly recommend this book. I am looking forward to the second book coming out in 2020.

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I was instantly drawn in by the cover and then the summary. That is a lovely cover and the story sounds sooooooo good.

The story follows Baby Doe, born Elizabeth McCourt, who would become a legend of Colorado! Things do not start off so great. She thinks she finds her true love but is abandoned pregnant and no money. However, she kept pushing. Things happen and she meets Tabor who would move the Earth for her.

I felt so bad for Baby Doe. She was treated like crap by that jerkface! Ugh. He didn't deserve her. I'm glad Baby Doe realized this and got a divorce even though it went against her religion and society. But he didn't love her and she deserved better for sure.

Honestly? I wasn't a huge Tabor fan at first. It took eons for me to really warm up to him. Maybe it is because I didn't trust him? I'm not sure but I was constantly worried that he was going to hurt her. She really deserved happiness! I adored her. She was not only beautiful, but she was smart and strong.

I liked Billy at first, but grrrr he was a snot.

The writing was beautiful! I had enjoyed a previous novel by the author a while back and adored the writing style. This was the same. Simply lovely. It really hooks you into the story and characters.

The ending was cliff-hanger-ish...but not at the same time. I liked how it ended. You can leave as is or move forward. It was very nice, but it did make me sad at the same time. Oooo the feels.

I had no major issues at all. I really enjoyed the story. I highly recommend it for historical fiction lovers. I'll stamp this with 5 stars.

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If you, like me, enjoy historical fiction centered around a courageous leading lady, then Gold Digger, The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor by Rebecca Rosenberg is the book for you. Set during the gold rush, this gem of a novel tells the rags-to-riches-to-rags-to-cliffhanger story of a young and newlywed woman who travels west to stake their claim on a mine gifted by her wealthy father-in-law. Her goal and her family’s expectation were that she would send riches home to bail out her bankrupt father. While Lizzie a/k/a Baby Doe is up for the challenge, her husband is not. He abandons her while she is carrying his child. Rather than return home a failure in the eyes of her family, Baby Doe resolves to make it on her own despite enormous odds.

As in Rosenberg’s earlier novel, The Secret Life of Mrs. London, Gold Digger has some hilarious and unexpectant scenes. The quick-witted and silver-tongued Baby Doe and had me snickering as she brushed off endless unwanted advances and engaged in Real Housewife franchise level spats with the women. Cast as a woman who could have any man she wanted but not a single female friend, Baby Doe kept her eye on the prize. Once she set her sights on the silver king Horace Tabor, you knew his heart didn’t stand a chance.

Gold Digger is rich with colorful characters, quick dialogue, interesting facts, and a fascinating era. An enthusiastic 4-star review; I eagerly await publication of the continuation of Baby Doe’s story in Rosenberg’s Silver Dollar, scheduled for publication in September 2019.

Thank you to Rebecca Rosenberg and NetGalley for an ARC of Gold Digger in exchange for an honest review.

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Great story. I learned so much about an era that I feel needs to get more attention. The storytelling was amazing and I became so interested in Baby Doe's story that I had to find out the rest of her story. I was very glad to find out at the end of the book that a sequel is in the works!# Golddigger

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Awesome story. A little romance some drama and a lot of suspense ! The real life of women during this day, and spirited story of one woman who paved the way for generations to come, it was great, and You wanted to know how this story ended...i want to read the next book by this author

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I definitely recommend this book. Lizzie is one strong women, trying to make a life for herself. I couldn’t read it fast enough. Don’t miss out.

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GOLD DIGGER: THE REMARKABLE BABY DOE TABOR by Rebecca Rosenberg is a work of historical fiction based on the life of Elizabeth McCourt Doe Tabor, aka Baby Doe. It is set in the late 1800s during the heyday of gold and silver mining in Colorado. After moving to Colorado with her new husband, Harvey, to make their fortune in a gold mine, Baby Doe finds herself suddenly without a husband and living alone in poverty, estranged from friends and family. Later, she meets “silver king” and politician, Horace Tabor and despite him being married, they embark on a forbidden romance that eventually results in them both being shunned by the society they once dominated. This intriguing rags-to-riches-to-rags story is told with vivid descriptions and realistic detail. The characters were well-portrayed and believable and I loved how fiercely independent and resilient Baby Doe was in the face of all the difficulties she faced. I must confess I knew nothing about this strong woman from American history and I always like learning something new when I read historical fiction. I really enjoyed this well-written and engaging book and I look forward to the sequel, SILVER DOLLAR, coming later this year. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read an early copy.

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I received an advance copy of this book and thoroughly enjoyed reading this new historical novel by Rebecca Rosenberg. The story of Lizzie"Baby Doe"Tabor, steeped in the Colorado mining heydays, reflects the politics and morality of this era, and the strength and self confidence of this remarkable young woman. This is a tale of love and survival!

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This is a story based on the real life figure of Elizabeth Tabor. She went to Colorado in search of gold. While there she faces many hardships. I found Elizabeth to be a strong and resilient figure. Despite many obstacles, she never let anything faze her. She was a strong woman throughout. The writing is very well-written and the setting is very realistic almost as if the reader was there walking beside the Elizabeth. This novel is perfect for fans of Janet Benton, Robert Hicks, and Jim Fergus. Full review to come!

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So Ms. Rosenberg is a new to me author - and I am so glad that I had the opportunity to read this book. This book has well written characters and intriguing story line. Baby Doe is the main character who is intriuging, charming, and beautiful. You will see her story unfold in 19th Century gold country. One of the things I really liked is that her story is based on the real Baby Doe. This had me looking up the true Baby Doe. I love when I can read a book and learn some stuff along the way. I look forward to more from this author.

I received a copy of this book through the author. All thoughts are my own.

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I became a fan of this author when I read her first novel, THE SECRET LIFE OF MRS. LONDON, so I was pleased to have the opportunity to read an advanced copy of GOLD DIGGER. As before, the author has taken a true story--a true love story--and has brought it to new life for today's readers. Everything is here for a rollicking ride. This story pull together a forbidden love, the wild west, politics, and mining for riches set against the backdrop of my favorite state, Colorado.

The most impressive part of the novel is the depiction of its main characters, Horace and Baby Doe Tabor, who seemed so real to me I wished I'd known them. As they endured the cruel pettiness of people who lived during their era, their love stayed true. I ached for both of them.

Even though I know how this story ends, I was thrilled to see that there will be a Part II, and I'll look forward to devouring that novel as well. Don't miss this rags-to-riches-to-rags again, compelling read.

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Rebecca Rosenberg's novel, Gold Digger, is a work of historical fiction based on an actual person. Elizabeth McCourt Tabor came to be known as Baby Doe after she moved to Colorado in 1878 with her first husband to work her father-in-law's gold mine. Everything goes wrong and she vows never to be dependent on anyone again. Resourceful, strong and independent are just a few of adjectives that describe her. She struggles to make her own way, all the while rejecting offers from men. Finally, there is one man she can not refuse. Her life takes a path she could never have imagined.

This is a well written and enthralling novel. It brings to life important historical characters who lived in an exciting age. The story is so well told readers that are transported back in time and become immersed in the narrative. Highly recommended.

I am looking forward to reading the sequel.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

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A captivating book about the true story of Baby Doe Tabor. A page turner that kept me up all night! Can't wait to read the second book!
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. Thank you, Netgalley!
All opinions are my own.

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Inspired by a woman and events forgotten by history, bestselling author Rebecca Rosenberg weaves together carefully researched fact and fiction to tell the story of Elizabeth McCourt Tabor, better known as Baby Doe Tabor, and the place she held in the life and heart of Horace Tabor, a wealthy mining magnate and US Senator, who was old enough to be her father.

Baby Doe moved to Colorado from Oshkosh Wisconsin with her first husband, Harvey Doe, a drunken Lothario who, unlike his wife, was somewhat adverse to manual labor. After divorcing Harvey (no mean feat and almost unheard of for a woman in the 1880’s) she moved to Leadville where she met Tabor, the man responsible for the birth of much of the Colorado silver mining industry. They married and had two daughters and lived in a mansion in Denver.

When the government repealed the Sherman Silver Purchase Act and went on the gold standard Baby Doe and her husband went from fabulous wealth to indigence almost overnight. Following the death of Tabor, she and her daughters returned to Leadville to work their surviving mine, the Matchless in the hope of rebuilding their lives and their dreams.

Rosenberg’s historical fiction novel GOLD DIGGER: The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor should be required reading for young people today since it does an excellent job of illustrating the hard work, trials and tribulations suffered by those women who, working shoulder to shoulder with their men, built this country. (No food stamps, subsidized housing, or free health care and education for those folks…..just tenacity, courage and back-breaking work with no guarantee of success).

Author Rosenberg is a talented spinner of tales as well as a sharp observer of social conventions of the time period.

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When asked to review this book, I was conflicted. Not because of the author. I loved her first book “The Secret Life of Mrs. London”. I also love historical fiction. But, the Gold Rush era is not one of my favorites. After reading this book, Ms. Rosenberg has changed my mind.

I knew absolutely nothing about Baby Doe and had limited knowledge of the late 1800s gold rush. Mrs. Rosenberg quickly transports the reader to Colorado as we meet newly married Lizzie and Harvey Doe. On their way to make a fortune mining. Lizzie is beautiful, something I don’t think Harvey was quite ready for the effect her beauty would have on people. Not a marriage of love, more of convenience, you feel for Lizzie as you find out her background and her present state. Life is not easy in the mines. Gold Fever was a real thing that many men fell victim too. It was a brutal life for all involved.

Baby Doe is a force to be reckoned with. Fierce, independent and willing to work alongside her husband as a partner. She will do anything for her family and is so needing of love. Life is hard and heartbreaking. Her life takes a turn when she meets Horace Tabor, a man with a wife, son and a large dream. These two are drawn to each other and the sparks fly.

Descriptive, well researched, fast paced and informative. I thoroughly enjoyed this read so much more than I expected to. I look forward to reading the sequel coming out soon!

Thanks to the Author for this ARC. Opinion is my own!

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Life was so tough back in these days especially for women all that women were good for was marriage having babies and taking care of the family! This girl comes to life and takes what life wats to throw at her,it's not easy! Wonderful description of the area of the world she lives in and the people just pop out at you and you feel like you are right there with this girl and her discoveries! Enjoyed this book and so will you!!😺😺😺

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A delightful and fast paced story of the incredible life of Baby Doe. Packed full of historical, well-researched facts that are woven into a fascinating tale of hardship and struggles for success. A dash of romance adds to the fun, with the conclusion of the book leaving you breathless for more.

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My favorite thing about reading historical fiction is that I can be entertained while learning something new about a time, a place, and people I’m not familiar with. I felt like I was living in the 19th century in Colorado, a time of hope and desperation. The author has told this story with gritty honesty, and with the great ability to transport readers. The characters were immensely fascinating, especially Baby Doe, who really comes to life on the pages of this book!

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It is hard for me as a 21st century woman to imagine what life must have been like for Baby Doe.
The book Gold Digger, really gave me insights into her thought processes and desire to survive,, help her family and to respectfully be with the man she loves.
A complex woman in a complex time. Ms Rosenberg has a style of inviting me in to read more My reading light stayed on many nights after the household was quiet so I could finish reading Gold Digger.
This story should be made into a movie.

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Baby Doe Tabor is a legend among the women of the mining West. She holds the reputation of being a great beauty, a home-wrecker, and in her later years, a madwoman. How much of this is true? You need to read "Gold Digger" to discover for yourself. I found the history of Elizabeth "Lizzie" McCourt Doe to be a fascinating story of a strong willed, smart, resilient woman who never let circumstances get the best of her. She reminded me of Garnet from "Jubilee Trail", which was the first adult book I read and one that changed my dreams.

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I do not usually read Historical novels, but am so happy I did as this is a remarkable story.

Gold Digger’s is set during the Victorian era in Colorado and based on the life of Elizabeth McCourt Doe Tabor (Baby Doe Tabor).

It is a well written historical novel as it is obvious there has been a lot of research conducted to collaborate the story of Baby Doe’s life.

She and her husband Harvey are newlyweds in Colorado during 1878. Baby Doe is a remarkable woman who overcomes the death of her son, a divorce after her husband leaves her, and a lifetime of ups and downs. During this time she continues to stay true to herself.

It’s encouraging to see she finally overcomes her struggles and finds love in Horace and gives birth to two daughters. Even though she ends up in poverty again after going from poverty to riches, she realizes there are more important things in life than money.

The author’s description of the mining locations during this time period is so vivid you feel as if you are actually there - great job!

Baby Doe is a survivor and it is well depicted in this novel.

Overall as mentioned this is a remarkable historical novel that is very well written and I highly recommend this book.

I was provided this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion.

I GIVE IT A 5 STAR: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Rebecca Rosenberg is one of those authors who guarantees a rollicking read and Gold Digger aptly does so in spades. Based upon a real person, this tells about the life of 'Baby Doe' in the late 1800's.
Life is difficult in those days for everyone but single women seemed destined to encounter a myriad of specific problems. (I don't want to post spoilers but just imagine life for a woman during the Gold Rush Era - it could get ugly.)
Rosenberg first happened across my radar with her novel The Secret Life of Mrs. London and I rapidly became a dedicated follower. She heavily researches the material in her novels. The time period that Gold Digger is set in is one that I USED TO know little about (Having now attended Rosenberg 101, I know a lot more!).
This is a book that fans of historical fiction will eagerly devour. I highly recommend it!
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. All opinions my own.

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Gold digger by Rosenberg caught me by surprise. After rI axing the blurb about the synopsis of the book I really felt as though this author picked up a piece of history and brought it back to life so I really wanted to read this novel. I am so glad that I did. The story starts us in the late 1800’s where we meet a young lady whose name is Lizzie Doe. Doe’s real life struggles are brought to life in this story of hope and fear. Doe is pregnant and now abandoned when her life takes a significant turn. She Manet a man who is much older than her and finds in him the love she was looking for. However, rumors start flying and we see a woman do what few women ever thought about doing in that era. If you want a book that will have you rooting for the protagonist, this is the book for you. I had never heard of this story before and am so glad that I got the chance to do so now.

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Rebecca Rosenberg, Author for “Gold Digger The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor” has written a captivating, enthralling, intriguing, intense, and suspenseful novel. The Genres for this novel are Historical Fiction and Romance. The timeline for this story is around 1878, around the time of the gold rush, in Colorado. The author describes her colorful cast of characters as complex and complicated.
Baby Doe came to Colorida with her new husband to work and look for gold in the mine her father-in-law had suggested. She wants to send money to her family. Baby Doe finds herself working very hard. Baby Doe shows how courageous she is when her husband leaves her. She files for a divorce
After this happens, Baby Doe moves to Leadville. Baby Doe does meet someone. I love the way that Rebecca Rosenberg vividly describes the Western days of mining. The prospectors are looking for gold and veins of silver. Men are fighting for their mining rights. There is a political agenda, discrimination, betrayals, and danger. Even when Baby Doe is considered successful and is charitable, it is difficult for her to make friends. I eagerly await the next novel in this series. I highly recommend this Historical Fiction Read.

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I won a copy of this book and also got a copy via NetGalley from the author for my complete, unbiased, and honest review.

This book was so good from the very beginning. I was a bit unsure whether I was going to like it at first but after reading the very first page I was hooked. It weaves so much history throughout the story. I learned so much about the gold and silver mines in Colorado. I also remembered a President that I had forgotten about. The 21st president of the United States. President Arthur. I know my presidents usually but for some reason forgot about him so I googled him. I love when I read a book that makes me a bit smarter.

I loved this book. I loved most of the characters. There were some that I detested but that happens. It had so much feeling. Deep love, aching, heartbreaking pain, a bit of laughter. All the feels I expect from a good book. Baby Doe was a great beauty and all the men wanted her. When she gave her heart it was for real. It was for life. Not for money but for true love. I wept in a few parts of this book. It broke my heart and then I would feel so happy. I hated how the women treated Baby Doe. They should have given her a chance. She was kind, tender, loving, giving to a fault and loyal. Horace Tabor fell in love with her and made her his wife against all the crazy odds of the Colorado laws. I could not believe that a woman could not get a divorce back then. That was crazy, but true. It was hard for Horace to get a divorce so he could marry Baby Doe. Theirs is a love story that transcends the ages. And what an age difference they had. Her young and beautiful and him somewhat old. He was actually quite a bit older than her but they had the thing that keeps a couple together. Complete love and loyalty.

This book was so well researched. I felt like I was right there. In the mines, in the mountains, in the hotels, opera houses and even in the White House. Ms Rosenberg did an outstanding job with this book. She brought history to life with words. Words that I won’t soon forget. I treasured each word in this book. It was truly a beautiful story of love and loss.

I can’t wait for the sequel now.

A great big 5 stars and more if I could.
Thank you to #NetGalley #Rebecca Rosenberg for this book.

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The story of Baby Doe Tabor is exciting—full of love, rich living, and beautiful things, while at the same time we get to witness the hard life she lived and the rags to riches and back to rags struggles she endured. She definitely was a very strong woman and one who was not afraid to speak her mind, which was pretty much unheard of at that time in the old West. What a spitfire she was!

I love that this story took me back to that old West and let me experience life the way it was back then. I became immersed in that time period and learned so much about the silver mining in that area. It was interesting to experience the life of an 'outsider' to the area as Baby Doe was shunned by society and was never really accepted. I admired her strength and her determination to get what she wanted.

Gold Digger: The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor is a must read for historical fiction lovers. It truly gives us a look at the tough times, but also the glorious times, of the old West through the eyes of an amazing woman.

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Baby Doe Tabor's rags to riches. . . and then back to rags again story is told with verve and colorful detail in Rebecca Rosenberg's novelized account of the life of the real life woman who was once the richest - and most beautiful - gal in America.
Gold Digger covers the first part of Baby Doe's life, with a second book to follow, but even half of her life holds enough drama, triumph and reversal of fortunes to entertain and enthrall.

Virtually deserted by her first husband, as desperate to support herself and her infant son as well as her family "back home," Baby Doe showed her fortitude in the hard world of Colorado mining before finally snaring 'Silver King' Horace Tabor as her second husband. The richest man in America rose from privation to become Leadville mayor, and then Washington senator, striking riches in his 50s after a life of unremitting toil.

Despite their age difference, his married state, and wide cynicism about Baby Doe's motives, their's was a love match, as the book so ably demonstrates. When Horace divorces his wife and they marry with the US President in attendance, it seems that Baby Doe's most vaulted dreams have all come to pass.

Set in the Colorado of the 1880s, Gold Digger brings to life the desperately tough world on gold mining in a period where hard-nosed industrial mining was replacing the backwoods fantasy of panning in crystal clear streams. Well-realized settings, strong characterization, Rebecca Rosenberg serves up a poignant portrait of a woman who came close to beating the odds, but in the end was deserted by Lady Luck.

She talks about her work on The Joys of Binge Reading podcast, https://thejoysofbingereading.com/rebecca-rosenberg-golden-women/

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Baby Doe is a complicated woman. I found her devotion and determination admirable but her quiet beauty a vicious tool of manipulation. I felt empathy towards her and at times I found her loathing. A victim of love as well as a victor. Doe was judged and convicted by her peers for her unacceptable choices and decisions. A time in history where women were nothing more than ornaments to cook and clean for their spouses, certainly not fitting for an independent soul such as Doe. Her strength and independence frowned upon by society. Doe’s story is fascinating and she has a captivating aura. Her strength compensates for her flaws. Her undeniable love of Tabor was evident from beginning to end. The ending piqued my interest for the sequel, I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this plucky woman.

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Interesting read about Colorado's history Gold and Silver era. Elizabeth Doe moves to Colorado with her husband Harvey Doe in her early 20's. Thinking she helped her family solve their poverty by marrying a rich family. Things don't go so smoothly at the Gold mine her husband's family own. You learn how she takes control to make her life better. After leaving her first husband during an era when women didn't divorce. She moves to Leadville and falls in love with Horace Tabor a man twice her age. Tabor becomes rich by mining Silver. Fallow Baby Doe on her journey from Rags to richs back to rags. Learn why she Colorado legend who inspired opera and movies .

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Wonderful Historical Fiction
What a wonderful rendition of Baby Doe's life and legacy. I was raised on the stories out of Central City and Leadville. I am a Colorado native born of native Coloradans. I even went to high school with a Tabor, the great-granddaughter of Horace and Augusta. I have hiked and explored all of the areas in this book. As well as visited every museum in the mining areas multiple times. The whore house museums are the best! At any rate, the author stayed close to the facts throughout this book. The book began painfully slow, I stayed with it and it got much better. I received this ARC book from Net Galley for free and this is my honest review.

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Gold Digger by Rebecca Rosenberg. I find this historical novel interesting. Some parts of this story are very sad., and sometimes you did not like the characters. Rebecca Rosenberg keeps the authors entertained with the many episodes of Baby Doe. The descriptions of the mines and hotels were there so that you felt like you were in a movie.

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What a fun book. It certainly had ups and downs, as well as common catastrophes of the times, but I seriously had fun reading this book. Baby Doe Tabor is a strong, capable women in a time when such characteristics are not popular or even fashionable in ladies.

This story takes us from the train that Lizzie and her newlywed husband, Harvey take to Colorado to a time when she is friends with the President. We follow her excitement and disappointments. The characters are interesting. At once, they are self-deprecating, egotistical, humble and lovestruck. The author portrays the early west as wild while still holding on to its societal norms and prejudices. The tale weaves in between minute towns, desolate mines and cities. The writing is concise and it reads easily. I wanted to read it in one sitting.

I highly recommend this book. I tend to read more Civil War and World War II historical fiction. This was a breath of fresh air and left me scampering to find more from this era. I have already joined Rebecca Rosenberg’s website so that I can be notified upon the publication of the second installment of Baby Doe Tabor’s fascinating life.


I received an ARC from Lion Heart Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affects my opinion or rating of this book.

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I've never heard of Baby Doe Tabor and I don't usually read stories set in the 1800s, but I fell in love with Rebecca Rosenberg's writing when I listened to the audiobook The Secret Life of Mrs. London. So when I saw at NetGalley that she had a new book coming out I knew I had to give it a try. Once again Rosenberg proved she is a powerful storyteller and I fell in love with Gold Digger: The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor.

It is kind of ironic that a woman is looked down upon and called a gold digger when the only real opportunity to improve her life is through marriage to a well-to-do man. However, when men only associate with a wealthy man in order to receive monetary benefit from the relationship it is business as usual. It was hard to tell who the real gold diggers were in this story as many of the characters only associate with Horace Tabor as long as the money flows towards them. As soon as he falls on hard times they all desert him with only a few remembering his kindness when they were in financial difficulty themselves.

Baby Doe really comes to life in the pages of this story. Actual excerpts from her diaries remind you that she was a real person. But it is the story that Rosenberg weaves around her that endears Baby Doe to the reader. You feel her struggles and her triumphant. I never really saw her as a gold digger though. Yes, she wanted a good match in marriage as that was the only option open to her if she wanted to get out of poverty. But she was also willing to do whatever it took to make sure her marriage was a success. Even if that meant actually digging for gold. When I think of a gold digger (the derogatory term) I think of a woman who wants the splendid lavished on her without any work on her part.

I can understand why she was snubbed. Divorce was so rare and held such a horrible connotation. Though with all the philandering men, you have to wonder if it wasn't jealousy on women's part that had them snubbing the divorcee.

If you are like me and don't think you would like a Wild West story, you should know that there is so much more to this story. It is definitely a story of a strong woman. The things Baby Doe had to overcome during a time when a woman was little more than a man's arm dressing is remarkable. Even in today's time, she would be a strong woman with her "do whatever it takes" attitude.

The ending was a bit abrupt because I had so many questions about what came of Baby Doe and her two daughters. Rosenberg (or the publishers) must have known that many readers would feel the same way as there is a note right after the end stating that there was a sequel planned for next year. With this knowledge, I felt that it was a natural place to end this chapter in Baby Doe's life. And since she is a real person, I can probably find a least some answers to my questions just by reading her Wikipedia page if I don't want to wait until next year.

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An amazing story on one woman's journey through life in the late 1800's west and how she became the wife of a miner that struck it rich. "Her beauty was a gift from God, Mam said, a gold plated guarantee she'd marry a gentleman of means and wouldn't have to take in mending." She was a newlywed and she and her husband were headed to Colorado where they were going to work a gold mine.
That set to stage for what was to come when her husband abandoned her and she had to make her way. But meeting Silver King Horace Tabor, she seemed to be set to live a good life. Never being accepted in polite society was hard and there was a lot that happened.
Follow this amazing story and become riveted as you turn the pages as fast as you can..

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Wow!!!! This was a first book by this author and I loved it!!! This fast paced book is filled with such amazing characters!!! Highly recommend

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I really enjoyed reading this novel based on a real person. Baby Doe first went to Colorado with her first husband. She married Harvey in hopes to be able to help her parents with money. It as interesting to learn about this woman’s life. She seems to have been a little before the times. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series that will continue her life story. I received a copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

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After reading this I realized this story though not nonfiction is based on a true story. The sequel, which I can't wait to read will be releasing in September.
Calling all historical fiction readers, you're going to really enjoy this one.
It is rich in historical detail. Very word heavy, you'll love the descriptions. Lizzie aka Baby Doe comes from poverty but with her exceptional beauty her Mama always said she would marry rich.
This woman is a survivor, just twenty years old she travels to Colorado with her husband to work a gold mine with her new husband. It wasn't long before he deserted her leaving her hungry and pregnant to work the mine herself.
With her beauty attracting men like bees to honey it wasn't long before they were swarming. Rich,poor they all wanted her and not to have a cup of tea with them.
After she moves to Leadville she fell in love with and marries a prospector twice her age.
Horace Tabor strikes the biggest silver vein in history . Though she is now rich Baby Doe is never accepted into polite society despite wearing the latest fashions and living in opulence.
Scandal,wealth,power we encounter them all before the bottom drops out.
Baby Doe is a real spit-fire, I think you're gonna enjoy reading about her.

Published May 28th 2019 by LION HEART PUBLISHING.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

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Favorite Quotes:

You have the attention span of a squirrel. Maybe I should bring acorns next time.

“I prefer women with a past.” Wilde winked. “They’re always so damned amusing.” Peter inserted a long skeleton key into the dressing room door. “Don’t give up on love, darling,” Wilde advised her. “One should always be in love. That’s the reason one should never marry.”


My Review:

Ms. Rosenberg has an entertaining and commanding writing style that squeezed my heart while raising my awareness. I have to choose carefully when picking up historical fiction, as the poor treatment of women tends to cause me dental damage from grinding my teeth. This entertaining and enlightening blending of fact and fiction was often tragic, as was undoubtedly the life of most women of the time, rich or poor. I was unfamiliar with the history and notoriety of the featured characters and having my curiosity sparked, I found myself hitting up Mr. Google for more information, which in turn led me to YouTube videos - which always results in me losing hours of time. Funny how that happens…

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Review will be posted on Amazon 5/29/2019

I received this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. This isnt a genre that I read alot in, yet having said that I found the book to be very good. I could tell the author spent alot of time researching the time period so that her protrayal was pretty accurate. What a hard life it would have been living in that day and age. I felt like the author had the ability to bring the story alive so that you actually felt like you were in the book. I would recommend it to others that enjoy this genre of books.

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Newlyweds Lizzie and Harvey Doe are on a train heading west. Harvey’s father had purchased a gold mine and wants him to go and work the mine in Central City.

Horace Tabor and his wife, Augusta, own a mercantile store in Central City. They have lived in this town for years and sell all kinds of supplies to new prospectors who arrive in town every day. To his wife’s chagrin, Horace likes to sneak off and pan for gold. Today, he has found a vein of silver and is thrilled at his new wealth.

Harvey is called home to care for his ailing mother leaving Lizzie behind. Trying to fit in, she finds people seem to be jealous of her beauty which gains her the nickname of Baby Doe as her eyes look like those of a young doe. To support herself, she works in a haberdashery. Men love her beauty. When Harvey fails to return, she files for divorce which is unheard of for women.

Before long, Baby Doe and Horace Tabor fall in love. He is now extremely wealthy and has gotten into politics. His wife, Augusta, does not want to give him a divorce. Will Horace and Baby Doe ever have a life together?

This is a true story that shows the many people who worked hard to mine for gold and silver. It describes the wealth that many of them earned, along with the heartache of those who did not find fortune. I found the politics of the time period to be fascinating. People were willing to do just about anything to rub elbows with the wealthy and the politically successful.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

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Elizabeth McCourt's family knew she was destined for greatness based on her beauty and, but Lizzie knew she could do even more. Lizzie was married to Harvey Doe and went off to Colorado to make a fortune from the mines Harvey's family gave him. Only, Harvey wasn't cut out for mining work. Lizzie found herself striking deals and even going in the mines to help keep the mine going and money flowing. Her beauty and ingenuity earned her the name Baby Doe. Harvey soon found mining to be overwhelming and escapes back home abandoning Baby Doe. She decides to stay, get divorced, finds work at a haberdashery and takes up with silver mining mogul Horace Tabor creating a scandal. However, Baby Doe and Horace are happy as they excavate a place for themselves in society.

A true woman of the Wild West, Baby Doe Tabor's story reads as larger than life, but is all fact based. Passion for Baby Doe's story seeps through the pages of Gold Digger with the emotion conveyed through her trials and triumphs. Through Baby Doe a vibrant picture of the mining towns were created, along with the hardships faced there. I was amazed at how Baby Doe always came through whether it was making her way into mining in order to understand the business, finding a way to divorce, running a store, breaking down barriers to society or helping to build her community, Baby Doe was a force to reckoned with. For a woman of her time, Baby Doe accomplished a great deal, especially with the ups and downs in her life. The constant unknowing of what would happen led to a excited feeling the whole way through. The book wraps up at a turning point in Baby Doe's life, but not nearly the end; I'll be looking forward to the next book, Silver Dollar.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

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Lizzie Doe goes to Colorado as a bride to operate a gold mine with her husband. She is pregnant and her husband leaves her there alone without funds. She meets Horace Tabor and they are in and out of each other's life for years but above all attracted to each other. There are several men who are there for Lizzie as she struggles along in the mining towns of Colorado. She becomes known as Baby Doe and carries that name for the rest of her life. Baby Doe has many ups and downs. This story is about Horace Tabor also as he is very much a part of her life and she of his. The characters were a real part of Colorado history.

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Received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. I loved this book. It is well written and was well researched. Was especially interesting to me as I live near Denver. Am looking forward to read the sequel, Silver Dollar

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Baby Doe (Lizzie McCourt) was a historical figure during the gold and silver rush during the 1870s through the turn of the century in Colorado. Lizzie originally moved to Colorado in the mid-1870s with her new husband to take over his father’s gold mine. She was pregnant when her husband abandoned her and left her with nothing. She was a strong women and was able to find work and support herself. Shortly after her divorce, she met Horace Tabor, a gold and silver miner that became very wealthy and they fell in love. He was already married and was in the process of running for Senator from Colorado. His divorce and marriage to Baby Doe caused quite a scandal and she was never accepted into society. Their wealth was stripped from them when gold became the U.S. standard. Most of his money came from silver mining which became worthless. Baby Doe had both periods of great wealth as well as great poverty. This book ends with Tabor’s death and the start of her new life without him and their two young daughters. The author, Rebecca Rosenberg is planning a sequel that will cover the rest of Baby Doe’s life. The book was well researched and characters quite compelling. The dialogue at times, however, was somewhat stilted. The descriptions were rich and brought that time of Colorado’s mining history to life. I am looking forward to the sequel. I received a copy from NetGalley for an honest review.

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Gold Digger is a historical fiction account of Baby Doe Tabor, a remarkable, independent woman who was immersed in the rough life of mining in Colorado during the late 1800s. The story begins with newly married Baby Doe and her husband leaving Oshkosh, Wisconsin for Colorado. What follows is a saga of loss, love, and learning the hard way that wealth doesn't buy happiness. Baby Doe is not your typical woman of this era. She would prefer to be in the gold mine getting her hands dirty as opposed to being at home living the domestic life. At the same time, she's a real beauty who captures the attention of just about every man she comes across. The term gold digger in the title has multiple meanings - she literally was in the mine digging for gold and, when she was down on her luck, she met a very wealthy married man much older than her who she wound up eventually marrying. She went from rags to riches and back again, but she never gave up. This was a reasonably researched historical account of the evolution of the mining towns in Colorado during the 19th century. I recommend to anyone with an interest in that era or in mining history.

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Before reading Gold Digger, I was completely unfamiliar with who Baby Doe was. In fact, I had never heard of her, however, the description of the novel sounded really interesting, so I was eager to read about this woman with the funny nickname.

I did a lot of Googling while reading Gold Digger – mostly because her story is so wild and reads like fiction, so I was constantly verifying that all the amazing things actually happened to her. While her story has been fictionalized for the novel, the main events did indeed happen.

It is made clear that Lizzie – soon to be known as Baby Doe – was brought up by her mother to be the beautiful wife to a wealthy man. Her mother fawned over her beauty and groomed her to search for a wealthy man to marry so she could help out her family. Quite an unfortunate kind of upbringing. This perceived duty is heavy on Lizzie. She has made what seems, on paper, to be a good marriage, but it quickly becomes clear that her handsome young husband isn’t cut out for working the mine his father has given him to run.

Lizzie is given her new name by the miners and it sticks. Baby Doe is a hard worker and will stop at nothing to make a living and make the mine succeed. She has incredible strength and fortitude – and she needs it to survive her first marriage and life after she is abandoned by her husband.

I found the book to be very interesting and sometimes almost unbelievable. Gold Digger is only the first part of Baby Doe’s story – there is more to tell and I look forward to reading more about this gutsy woman and her larger than life tale.

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There's a little big of a double entendre going on with the title. Baby /Doe heads west with her new husband, Harvey. Almost from the start, you know this is not a marriage that is going to go along swimmingly. Harvey has asthma and the altitude in Colorado is causing him a lot of difficulty. The mining life, definitely isn't for him.



Baby is soon left alone and pregnant and forced to find her own way. Thankfully she ended up working with a haberdashery before her life really starts changing



That change comes in the face of Horace Tabor, and older married silver miner.



So much scandal there. It doesn't really help matters that Baby Doe is beautiful. She's pretty smart too. Or at least smart enough to know how to survive. But Horace does have a wife of 20 + years and a son.



This book was so interesting, because like most historical characters, they aren't always likable, but they sure are intriguing.



Sometimes I had to wonder about Baby Doe and the decisions she made. Being brought up Catholic she would have had to have known she wasn't going to have it easy divorcing and remarrying. In 2019 divorce still isn't all that acceptable in the church and considering there was a pregnancy, it would have been pretty hard to get that marriage annulled.



I also wondered about Horace. He had so much to lose leaving his wife.



The power of love, maybe? I wasn't 100 % convinced though until the end.



There's a lot of stuff to learn here too. I think that's what I really love about good historical fiction, you want to learn more and you want to google as you go along. I was constantly checking the Wiki pages for Baby Doe and Horace Tabor to learn more about their lives. You also know that calling it the Wild West was probably an understatement.



What I really liked was the way the story was presented, from both Baby Doe's and Horace's points of view.



This was a fabulous read!

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This book is set in Colorado at the time of the gold and silver mining days. The writer gives us glimpses into the history of what it was like back then and though the book is fiction, Baby Doe was real. I enjoyed the book and the way the story and characters brought those times to life for me

If you like historical fiction and want to learn more about the gold and silver mining and what life was like in those days, grab this book.

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Gold Digger The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor by





Rebecca Rosenberg, published by Lion Heart Publishing is the true story of 22 years old Lizzie Doe. The family of Lizzie lost all the fortune during a fire and the girl is constricted of marrying a man, Harvey, she doesn't love going to the West with him. All of it, for helping her parents and trying re-built a dignity inside a pennieless family. Independent, open, immediately Lizzie demostrated to her husband what she was capable of, although the admonition of the husband was clear: here it's not Paris. Harvey Doe and his dad owned a mine and Lizzie immediately understand the opportunities and potentialities asking for searching for gold.
Sure the line put on the mouth of the dad of Harvey describes the situation of ladies at the end of 1870s.
“You, charming lady, can help by making a good home for my
son: cook hot meals, wash the laundry, clean the house.”
Joining the sewing circle organized by influential ladies of the city Lizzie discovers much more about mining although situations with the ladies of the circle became hard at a certain point.
Her relationship with the husband deteriorated after a while as well. Harvey was not exactly a saint. He visited brothels, lost,gambling a lot of money.
Pregnant, alone and owning a mine, Baby Doe later met along her way an older partner, a magnate pretty rich in Tabor. Tabor infatuated by her left the wife and married her.

A wonderful book this one, a quick reading because plenty of dialogues, and a fascinating portrait of a lady who, substantially was in grade of breaking a lot of rules, first of all the one of genres and consideration, still pretty poor that women had in the American society: just housewives for their men. For sure she was the Scarlett O'Hara of the West a feareless and free lsdy

Beautiful!

I thank NetGalley and the Rebecca Rosenberg for this ebook.

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This was a complimentary copy from netgalley - many thanks

I LOVED this!!!

Must admit, I've not read much from this era and to read about a woman in what is very much a man's world was illuminating

Well written and engaging, this author is new to me, but I will certainly be looking out for more of her work

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Growing up in Colorado, I studied about Baby Doe Tabor in school. I remember that she was portrayed to us in a somewhat negative manner, in direct contrast to "Molly" Margaret Brown, another famous name from the same era. Molly was lauded as a hero for setting up a juvenile justice system, driving an ambulance in WWI, fighting for miner's rights and surviving the Titanic. She was readily accepted into Denver society and you can tour her mansion today. Baby Doe, on the other hand, was generally regarded as a gold digger, as the name of the book implies. She was a beautiful divorcee who enjoyed flirting with men, especially those with money since she had none. She was known as a boisterous homewrecker for breaking up then US Senator Horace Tabor's 25 year marriage and it was thought to be scandalous when they married due to the huge gap in their ages. It was definitely assumed that she married for money, and she was never accepted into Denver society when they moved there. After losing their fortune and her husband's death, she moved to Leadville to live out the rest of her life. She was still considered an outcast, and some people thought she was crazy. Not a pretty picture of Baby Doe, but this was the impression I was left with after studying her in school.

I am so glad that I had the chance to read this book. Even though I realize that it is fiction based on fact, it made me see Baby Doe from a different point of view. She was doing the best she could do to survive and live well in a time that was not necessarily kind to women. She knew what she wanted, and she was strong enough to rise above the scandal and gossip and go for it. If she were living today, it is likely that future history would look back on her in a better light. She would be seen as strong and independent

I'm often skeptical of reading books about Colorado or that take place in Colorado because I often find glaring mistakes. It is apparent in this book, however, that the author did her homework. The book is well-researched and beautifully written. Instead of always being on the look out for errors, I was able to just sit back and enjoy the story. I'm looking forward to the sequel.

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Newlyweds Elizabeth “Baby Doe” and Harvey Doe travel to Colorado in 1878 to manage a gold mine belonging to Harvey’s father. Baby Doe is counting on their success to help support her parents in Wisconsin. Harvey proves to be inept at management and his poor work ethic forces Baby Doe to get involved in the daily operations.

Harveys eventually abandons Baby Doe which forces her to navigate life as a single woman. She is shunned by her former friends and has trouble gaining acceptance as an attractive working woman. Her path crosses with Horace Tabor who is a prosperous silver miner and on the path to be a US senator. A strong connection is formed but their complicated lives put a strain on the relationship.

Gold Digger: The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor by Rebecca Rosenberg is a historical fiction novel that provides insight into life during the Colorado Silver Boom. The book is well researched and includes engaging dialogue that draws readers into the time period. I look forward to the sequel about Baby Doe.

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Rebecca Rosenberg tells the intriguing story of Baby Doe Tabor in this page-turner, Gold Digger: The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor. Baby Doe was a beautiful and strong woman determined to make it on her own in the Wild West after being abandoned by her husband. A historical, rollicking western with an inspiring love story! I can't wait to read the next chapter in Baby Doe's life!

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Seriously, Rebecca Rosenberg needs to devote the rest of her life to writing novels for the rest of the world; she is literally a masterful author. When I read THE SECRET LIFE OF MRS. LONDON, Ms. Rosenberg's previous novel, I knew that I had found a new favorite author. So needless to say, when GOLD DIGGER came out, I snatched it up right away! And as expected, I was not disappointed. She brought Lizzie to life, and brilliantly fleshed out the life of the gold mine and the men (and women!) who mined them. Lizzie's strength and endurance drew me to her immediately, and had me cheering her on. Just so stinkin' good!! A definite recommend!

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The GoldDigger by Rebecca Fisher Rosenberg is an very interesting historical novel set during the days of Colorado’s mining for silver. The GoldDigger, as she is know.by many in Colorado, is named Baby Doe. She has come to Colorado with her new husband hoping for riches in a specific mine that has been purchased by her father-in-law. Her husband unsuccessfully works in the mine and then abandons his wife to go back to his mother’s house to assist her. He, in essence, abandons his wife. She is left alone to fend for herself. Her life and romance fill the story not only with a background in history but also a tale of unrequited love . The novel is well written and explores many different themes all nicely woven into one story. You will not be disappointed reading The GoldDigger. I received this novel from the publisher and netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

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There’s a lovely pun in the title, as the story begins in the silver and gold mines of the old West and follows the fortunes of the determined Elizabeth McCourt Doe as she transmogrifies into Baby Doe Tabor. The story is told from multiple viewpoints, but Lizzie is definitely the star. The novel is based on fact, as the author tells us in the Afterword and has a gritty, no nonsense feel to it, though much of what happens to the characters appears unbelievably lucky, but truth is always stranger than fiction and fortune favors the bold. I loved the feel of mixed history and story, the immersion into the time and place. The dramatic rise and fall of fortunes make this a page-turner and a fascinating glimpse into the not-to-distant past with characters both true to and larger than life.

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"From the moment I met you, I knew we were two of a kind. You’ve lived through things that crush most folks. Yet, you’ve come out stronger, showing a brave and beautiful face with each new challenge."

Baby Doe has countless admirers, but a single true love. The roller coaster of a life based on Elizabeth McCourt Doe (Baby Doe Tabor) encompasses what I consider to be enjoyable and readable historical fiction. I was drawn to this title as I was curious about the era and subject matter, and was delighted with my choice. Rebecca Rosenberg brings to life the Colorado mining communities in the late 1800's with a well-researched plot, and a satisfying ending.

It should come as no surprise that Oscar Wilde (in a brief and entertaining appearance) has some of the best one-liners in the novel: "I don’t know that women are always rewarded for being charming... I think they’re usually punished for it.”

After turning the last page, I immediately went to the author's website, appropriately bannered: "Historical Novels Celebrating Glorious Women of the Past", and look forward to adding to my TBR pile!

ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Elizabeth McCourt Tabor better known as Baby Doe was a woman who came from poverty. She married Harvey Doe but later divorced him for a variety of reasons including not providing a living and abandonment. She was from Oshkosh, Wisconsin but moved with Harvey to Leadville Colorado.
She met Horace Tabor, mining millionaire, and owner of Leadville's Matchless Mine. They fell in love and Horace tried to divorce his wife, Augusta of 25 years who denied him the divorce. He obtained a divorce in a different jurisdiction and married Baby Doe but was it legal? Because of their dalliance, divorces and subsequent marriage they were shunned by society.
They had two children but Baby Doe, still shunned by society but still donated money to charities. The Tabor's were rich in silver and with the repeal of the Silver Act, Horace lost his fortune and had to take a job as postmaster in Denver in 1898. Baby Doe eventually had to take menial jobs to survive and eventually died supposedly as a 'madwoman'.
I had read in the past a bit about Baby Doe and Horace and found the story fascinating. A story of a woman who goes from rags to riches and back to rags again. A strong woman who takes on her role as a woman who would work in the mines, as a homewrecker by falling in love with a married man and being called a gold digger. She is a legend among the women of the mining west. I always love reading a story of strong women and I read this book in two sittings. Fascinating story, I think if you love a fast-paced, character-driven, based on real people, then go get a copy of this book! I highly recommend it!

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This book is amazing! This is a review in progress, I have not yet finished the book but wanted to share my thoughts. The history and story behind this look is so life like. The descriptions of the characters, the moments in time, the places the characters are traveling! I just cant put the book down.

I love the way the author describes the time setting within the story to pull you in as you are there!

I cant wait to post a full review once I have finished the book! If you have not read this, you need to pick it up ASAP!

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Thank you NetGalley, Lion Heart Publishing, and IBPA for allowing me access to Gold Digger by Rebecca Rosenberg. The following review is freely given, and all opinions are entirely my own.

Gold Digger tells the story of Babe Doe Tabor as she navigates the untamed Colorado landscape. Based on her real-life, this story packs a nice surprise in its writing. I was pleasantly surprised by how good it is! Definitely a 2019 favorite for me.

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This book was really unique. I loved the historical details. This era is not often written about so I found it really interesting

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Thank you to Netgalley for giving me a chance to read, "Gold Digger" by Rebecca Rosenberg. Gold Digger centers around Baby Doe Tabor, a young woman who moves with her husband to Colorado. His family owns a mine whose gold could save her family from ruin. Along the way, Baby Doe Tabor goes through both hardships and triumphs. A truly memorizing character! I am looking forward to the sequel.

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Rebecca Rosenberg has done it again! I was intrigued by the entire book. It held my attention and wanting more. Can't wait to see what's next.

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I love historical fiction!! This book is set in the 1900's at the time when gold digging was booming. I loved Baby Doe and that she was a character who knew what she wanted and knew how to get it. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves historical fiction

#netgalley

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The story of Baby Doe Tabor is far too often overshadowed by that other plucky, famous Colorado rags-to-riches heroine, Molly Brown. It's wonderful to see Baby Doe get the treatment she so richly deserves in this novel. Rosenberg writes in a style that instantly draws you in, making you feel like you're part of the story.. I'm already looking forward to the sequel, due later this fall!

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This book was an excellent recreation of history during the time of gold mining in Colorado in the 1800's. The true story of Elizabeth "Lizzie" Tabor is told in this wonderful historical novel. Without giving the story away, this book takes place in during the Gilded Age and explores Lizzie's life in great detail from rags to riches. You won't be disappointed.

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Baby Doe Tabor is a woman whose strong character has made her talk of the town, both during her time and now. She may have first married for the potential opportunities that would come with her new last name, but, little did she know, the real opportunity it gave her was to travel to mining territory, where she would eventually find the true love of her life.
The story of Baby Doe highlights how women during her time were objectified or thought of a merely a servant for the husband, expected to cook, clean, maintain the household, and warm the marriage bed, but not much more. Baby Doe was a woman who wanted more; she wanted to work the claim alongside her husband, and be an integral part of the business prospects. She was definitely a strong female character, especially for the 1800’s and early 1900’s.
Thought of as being a “gold digger” by many people during her lifetime, this book, as well as several others that have been written about her, describes her love and dedication towards Horace Tabor and not his money, during his time on Earth and afterwards. Her love for Horace stood the test of time, through good and bad times, richer and poorer.
Rebecca Rosenberg has done a fine job with pacing in this novel. I found it to be a quick, delightful read.

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Gold Digger, by Rebecca Rosenberg, is a story of life's ups ajd downs Wealth, penniless, happiness, sadness, trust, betrayal, strength, and weakness, it's all there. It's a story of the heartache that accompanies a marriage based on riches and not on love. It's about finding your soulmate and everlasting love.
I enjoyed the characters and setting of Gold Digger and am excited to read the sequal due out in 2020.

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Good read. Well written story about a character in history. Liked the story flow and the characters. Interesting and entertaining read that was hard to put down!

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Gold Digger, The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor by Rebecca Rosenberg is a very interesting book that I enjoyed. I was born and raised in Colorado, and you don't make it through school without hearing about Baby Doe Tabor. Being an adult I appreciate so much more than when I was in school. Baby Doe came to Colorado from back east with her husband Harvey Doe. Harvey was not able to care for his wife, so she divorced him. Baby Doe even worked the mine herself. When she lived in Leadville, CO, she met Horace Tabor and the two fell in love, unfortunately he was already married. If you enjoy history, and are looking for a good scandalous read, I highly recommend this book.

I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and the publisher. Thank you.

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