Thornton, Stephanie Marie

Thornton writes lyrically about the two Marys, and readers will sympathize, deeply, with their struggles to find their own paths. Direct readers who want to learn more about the women’s lives to a nonfiction title, Romantic Outlaws, by Charlotte Gordon.

The smashing plot piledriver is the confrontation between Elizabeth and Catherine, a vengeful young orphan whose mother’s death may have been caused by Elizabeth’s espionage. The wily Elizabeth snatches center stage and propels readers through the Red Scare and the opening years of the Cold War. Even though fictional, Thornton’s interpretation rings true and tragic.

Readers will enjoy this heartbreaking story of a wife’s fierce pride and loyalty to her president and country, despite years of marital loneliness and loss.

The first-person narrative gives authenticity to the voice of this complex woman, as Thornton expertly weaves the events of her life. Fans of presidential fiction will devour this book, and biography lovers may be intrigued as well.