March 13, 2017
Obsessed Hamilfans, be warned: this novelization of the romance between Elizabeth Schuyler, second daughter of a prominent colonial family, and Alexander Hamilton, Washington’s handsome aide-de-camp, may confuse or confound those who have committed to heart the Broadway musical’s cast recording. The story is told mostly from Eliza’s perspective, but since little is known about the courtship of this early American power couple, de la Cruz (Something in Between) has altered the historical record and added wholesale fabrications. Henry Livingston, a real-life figure, is portrayed as Schuyler’s first fiancée, a would-be rapist thwarted in the nick of time by the lovesick Hamilton. Hamilton is given credit for uncovering Benedict Arnold’s treason (while killing three musket-brandishing bandits on the road to Albany). Anachronistic phrases, including a few allusions to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s lyrics, strike discordant notes. In an afterword, de la Cruz writes that she was inspired to learn more about the Hamiltons’ love story after seeing the musical, but readers who know the story well may not appreciate her “fictional embellishment.” Ages 12–up. Agent: Richard Abate, 3 Arts Entertainment.