Readers interested in 19th-century, women’s, and military history will be drawn into this thoroughly humane and sympathetic treatment of U.S. army widows.
In this refreshing history, Robb will challenge U.S. readers’ assumptions about France by interjecting new discoveries, more diversity, and an aptitude for strong storytelling.
Despite its flaws, McElvaine’s book will be enjoyable for readers who like popular history, and particularly for Baby Boomers feeling wistful about the past.
Though it will be primarily of interest to history buffs, this may be a cautionary tale for today. Democratic institutions are fragile and many of the problems roiling the waters of the ’30s are ascendant again.