A parent might reach for this book when their teen is captivated by historical dramas like 'Hamilton' or 'Bridgerton' and is looking for a romantic, character-driven story. 'Alex and Eliza' reimagines the real-life courtship of Alexander Hamilton, an ambitious but poor aide-de-camp, and Elizabeth Schuyler, the daughter of a wealthy general, during the American Revolution. The novel explores themes of first love, navigating societal expectations, and balancing personal ambition with loyalty to family. It’s an ideal choice for a teen who enjoys romance and history, offering a story that is both emotionally engaging and a gentle introduction to a key period in American history. It is a clean, compelling romance perfect for ages 13 and up.
The book deals with the realities of war, including battles, injury, and the death of soldiers. These topics are handled directly but without graphic detail; the focus remains on the emotional consequences for the characters. The approach is historical and secular. The resolution of this first book is firmly hopeful, culminating in the couple's betrothal and commitment to a future together.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is a teen aged 13-16 who loved the musical 'Hamilton' and wants to spend more time with the characters, particularly focusing on the central love story. It is also perfect for a reader who enjoys the romantic tropes of series like 'The Selection' but is ready for a story grounded in a real historical setting.
Parent Prep
No significant prep is needed. A parent might want to gently remind the reader that it is historical 'fiction' and the author has imagined conversations and feelings. Otherwise, it can be read cold. The romantic content is very tame (chaste kisses, longing) and suitable for the younger end of the YA spectrum. A parent's teen is suddenly fascinated by the American Revolutionary period thanks to pop culture like 'Hamilton'. The teen expresses a desire for more stories like it, specifically looking for romance and accessible historical figures rather than dry textbook facts.
Age Experience
A younger teen (13-14) will likely connect most strongly with the swoon-worthy romance, the secret letters, and the 'love against the odds' narrative. An older teen (15-18) may appreciate more of the historical context, the commentary on social class, and the political ambitions that drive Alexander Hamilton's character.
What Makes It Special
This book's key differentiator is its direct link to the real, famous historical figures of Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler, capitalizing on the 'Hamilton' cultural phenomenon. Unlike many historical YA novels that use fictional protagonists, this one offers a fictionalized but intimate look at people readers may already know and love, making history feel personal and romantic.
Read plot summary
Set during the winter of 1780, the story follows the whirlwind courtship of Elizabeth Schuyler, daughter of a prominent general, and Alexander Hamilton, a brilliant but impoverished aide-de-camp to George Washington. Told from their alternating perspectives, the novel details their initial meeting at a ball, the societal pressures they face due to their different social standings, the dangers of the ongoing Revolutionary War, and the development of their deep love for one another through letters and secret meetings. The plot balances the personal romance with the high-stakes political and military backdrop of the era.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Eliza is torn between her duty to her family and her feelings for Alex. How do the expectations of her family, especially her father, shape her decisions throughout the book?
2
Alexander Hamilton is driven by his ambition to rise above his origins. Do you think his ambition ever gets in the way of his relationship with Eliza? Why or why not?
3
The story is told from both Alex's and Eliza's perspectives. How did seeing events from both points of view change your understanding of their courtship and their individual challenges?
4
The author takes some creative liberties with history to tell this love story. Does it matter if a historical fiction book is not 100% accurate? Where do you draw the line?
