I'd obviously wasn't in the right state of mind when picking up this up in which case revel the author decent writing style, well researched journey of Mary and Burr relations, long-winded and often times, tedious historical fiction novel. In overall, I've unfortunately decided to cut this short before one of our main protagonist even made an appearance. It just hurt too much to continue.

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Susan Holloway Scott does it again

Never disappointed by anything written by this author. What a terrific story that takes you through the life of Mary Emmons. I have never enjoyed reading about stories during this time period but because it was this author I did. It's a terrific read and I loved it. ( )

There are only a few books that I have given 5 stars to, and I am proud to say that this book is one of them! This history nerd LOVED this book! It was so meticulously researched and it showed throughout the whole book. This is definitely a historical fiction book, but based on historical fact. And as much as I loved reading about this time period, what I enjoyed most was how the author made you feel as you were in the story. I was totally sucked into this world, so much so that I could hear, see and feel everything that Mary felt. The anguish, the sadness, the fear, every emotion leapt off the pages and kept me up late many nights, past my bedtime. It also left me weepy, many times. Those that enjoy historical fiction will enjoy this book, I know I did.

I received this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. ( )

"Nil tam difficile est quin quaerendo investigari possit."
"Nothing is so difficult but that it may be found out by seeking." -Terence-

This is not the usual plantation slave story. It is a story of a real and once free woman of great courage, industry, and determination who thirsts for knowledge and yearns for freedom. She survived torture, abuse, abandonment and great loss. Yet, she faced her many challenges with determination, fortitude and an element of grace. Or so we imagine through author Susan Holloway Scott's tremendous fictional account based on limited facts of the life of Marry Emmons - "The Secret Wife of Aaron Burr".

The amount of research which Ms. Scott must have gathered to find the few threads about Mrs. Emmons' life would have been daunting for most. Yet, in this wonderfully told tale, it is all spun together with imagined events and conversations to make the story appear brilliantly seamless. The historic events of the American Revolution provide a framework through which the stories are woven. We, the readers, greatly sense the anxiety, grief, despair and loss as well as occasional exuberance and joys of each of the characters. If this were only a fictional account, it would be an epic and satisfying story. The understanding that it is based on historic fact delivers a sense of gravitas and immense sadness regarding the people who had to endure such trials in life. Yet, in the end, there is the realization of dignity and immense hope.

Ms. Scott is a truly gifted storyteller and writer. She deftly writes in a way which draws out the compassion and empathy of the readers for the many various characters. We view the story through Mary Emmons' eyes which are keen and just, yet still hold compassion for those whom she serves. We observe Mary's herculean strength of spirit and we gladly celebrate her victories. This is a story which needed the telling and we are the richer for it.

I am grateful to author Susan Holloway Scott and publisher Kensington Books for having provided a free copy of this book. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone. ( )

The Secret Wife of Aaron Burr by Shirley Holloway Scott is a tale woven with fiction and facts. A Bibliography Historical Romance. Told in first person, in Mary's POV.

This is the story of Mary Emmons, and Aaron Burr. Mary was sold into slavery, as a child in India, she was ill-treated and misused, she
was brought to a war torn America, eventually. She was toughened by her experiences of her young life, but Mary is intelligent, her strength, and resourcefulness, help her to survive. The notorious Aaron Burr, is known more for the fatal duel where his rival Alexander Hamilton was killed. He fathered two of Mary's children, each making huge
accomplishments in their own lives. He also married Mary before his total downfall in secret, of course.
Mary and Burr are drawn together into a world of power, passion, secrets, slavery, into a tangled web of slavery, that would have shocked a nation if known.

Packed with political, emotional, historical
and domestic details, Susan Holloway Scott, certainly describes an emotional tale, while, showing her cast of characters in an unforgettable story of drama, and lead by a woman whose courage, strength and spirit sparked a story infused with heart and details that will keep readers turning pages.
Mary and Aaron's story is a little known Historical fact, based on this author's research. A rollercoaster of emotions, confusion at times, but Mary's strength and courage kept her moving forward. Be warned some details or descriptions, that Mary went through may concern some readers. However, it was done with taste and dignity.
A surprisingly, enjoyable read. This is a new author to me, and I will certainly read her next book.

"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."

Rating: 4
Heat rating: Mild to hot
Reviewer: AprilR ( )