DOC Unwise Passions: A True Story of a Remarkable Woman---and the First Great Scandal of Eighteenth-Century America by Alan Pell Crawford in History

Review

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A wonderful bookBy D. R. WarnockI'm a big fan of historical non-fiction but; I have to admit that I picked up this book with some hesitation. I wasn't so sure that I would enjoy the American historical aspects this book offered because my tastes generally run to the British Victorian era. Imagine my surprise when I found it to be quite a lovely book (in spite of the story) that turned out to be immensely readable and very interesting.Initially Nancy Randolph seems a bit naive and a little short on the ability to stand up for herself after being involved in a terrible scandal; but by the end she proves to be the most stable and competent member of her extended family. The protaganist; Jack Randolph; deals with the demons of alcohol and opium abuse (and perhaps some sort of mental illness) by lashing out at the only person who can't/won't fight back. Eventually she does begin her retribution and; while it fails to completely destry Jack; it does provide some long-awaited satisfaction.The story includes Thomas Jefferson; his daughter; Patsy; and other recognizable historical people which makes this tale even more interesting. I highly recommend this book for anyone who reads historical non-fiction.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Good Mix of History Spicy ScandalBy Lola092563I was surprised to find this book a page turner; I stayed up late to keep reading "just one more chapter". Details the events surrounding a life changing incident in an early American political family; and the fallout scandal that followed the players 20 plus years later. In the meantime; this family is closely involved with the creating and sustaining of the new democracy - there are a few quite colorful characters.The book gave me an interesting view to how early American politics worked; family and everyday life in early America. I believe the author did a good job of creating a quick paced plot with good historical documentation.How the scandal was handled by the players involved reveals their characters; and this reminded me that people haven't changed all that much in 200+ years.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Gerrie SmithInteresting and historical insights into colonial times and sensibilities.