DEAR GEORGE, DEAR MARY is the story about George Washington's relationship with Mary Philipse. Mary Calvi has written a story based on hundreds of letters, witness accounts, and journal entries, reconstructing George Washington courting of New York heiress Mary Philipse.

I had never heard of Mary Philipse before I read this book. It was definitely interesting to learn more about this woman that apparently caught the eye of George Washington, although ultimately it was a relationship that was never to be. One of the charms with historical fiction for me is books like this, getting to know characters I never heard about. I love getting an image of a time long gone. And, as a non-American, I just have basic knowledge about George Washington. Sadly this book did not appeal to me. I think the main problem is that there was just never a flow to the story. I struggled quite badly with it, to be honest. Neither the story nor the characters came alive for me, bogged down with all the details of what was going on. Yes, I do love details in books that show that the author has done a well-researched job. However, in this case, it became too much and the story was lost among all the details and I felt my mind drift while I read the story.

Now, this is my opinion. I'm sure that there are those that will love the book. If you are interested in George Washington and/or the American revolution DEAR GEORGE, DEAR MARY is a book to read. It sure gives the reader an insight into both George Washington and Mary Philipse's lives. And, if you love doomed love stories is this book definitely something to consider.