The Wages of Fame

By Thomas Fleming

Book Overview

Set in the mid-Atlantic stales during the turbulent pre-Civil War years, "The Wages of Fame" continues the epic story of the Stapleton family. As the Mexican War approaches, passions both old and new... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0312863098
• ISBN13: 9780312863098
• Release Date: January 1998
• Publisher: Forge
• Length: 461 Pages
• Weight: 1.86 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.5" x 1.3" x 6.5"

Customer Reviews

A genunine feeling nineteenth century historical fiction

In 1827, Columbia University students Jeremy Biddle, George Stapleton, and John Sladen had become the freres trois for their close friendship. However, their harmony is destroyed when Jeremy's Ohio cousin, Caroline Kemble, arrives in town. Upon disembarking, Caroline introduces her cousin and his two friends to former President Monroe, who sailed on the same ship. Soon Jeremy's two buddies compete for Caroline's regard. Undecided between the two obviously different suitors, Caroline heeds the advice of George's wily grandfather, Hugh Stapleton, who convinces her that she could be a major force if she marries George, who has a major political future ahead of him. Caroline also has an affair with John, which leads to a child. While George and Caroline marry, Jeremy pays John to leave town. In 1832, George becomes the senator from New Jersey with Caroline being the true power behind the scenes. John has become a major player in southern politics. Over the next several decades, their paths will cross as slavery takes center stage throughout the nation. Renowned historian Thomas Fleming scribes a fascinating novel centering on the decades between the end of the Monroe presidency to the Civil War. The Stapletons remain an intriguing political family and the genuine use of real figures and events add much flavor to the crisp story line. Unlike REMEMBER THE MORNING, THE WAGES OF FLAME falls a bit short because the three primary characters never seem to come across as real as the secondary cast, including the glimpses of historical personage. Still, fans of Americana fiction will relish Mr. Fleming's latest saga.Harriet Klausner

A terrific work of historical fiction

In 1827, Columbia University students Jeremy Biddle, George Stapleton, and John Sladen had become the freres trois for their close friendship. However, their harmony is destroyed when Jeremy's Ohio cousin, Caroline Kemble, arrives in town. Upon disembarking, Caroline introduces her cousin and his two friends to former President Monroe, who sailed on the same ship. Soon Jeremy's two buddies compete for Caroline's regard. Undecided between the two obviously different suitors, Caroline heeds the advice of George's wily grandfather, Hugh Stapleton, who convinces her that she could be a major force if she marries George, who has a major political future ahead of him. Caroline also has an affair with John, which leads to a child. While George and Caroline marry, Jeremy pays John to leave town. In 1832, George becomes the senator from New Jersey with Caroline being the true power behind the scenes. John has become a major player in southern politics. Over the next several decades, their paths will cross as slavery takes center stage throughout the nation. Renowned historian Thomas Fleming scribes a fascinating novel centering on the decades between the end of the Monroe presidency to the Civil War. The Stapletons remain an intriguing political family and the genuine use of real figures and events add much flavor to the crisp story line. Unlike REMEMBER THE MORNING, THE WAGES OF FLAME falls a bit short because the three primary characters never seem to come across as real as the secondary cast, including the glimpses of historical personage. Still, fans of Americana fiction will relish Mr. Fleming's latest saga.Harriet Klausner