Such a woman: The Life of Madame Octavia Walton LeVert, Hardcover/Paula Lenor Webb

From the Forward: Octavia Walton LeVert came from good stock. Her grandfather signed the Declaration of Independence. This multi-talented lady was a woman extraordinaire who accomplished many things in her lifetime. In this book, Paula Webb describes her as an author, wife, and mother known for being a gracious hostess who entertained famous poets and politicians. Her intelligence and ability to converse in several languages drew them to her. Octavia ventured far from her hometown of Mobile, Alabama. Extensive travel in the United States and abroad expanded her horizons, as did being accepted into wide circles of society, meeting a president and the Queen of England. Contrary to the norm of the era, this woman was accepted by males who sought her opinion and advice. She was a person first and a female second. Webb outlines the many facets of Octavia's personality, showing how she dealt with tragedy, adversity, and success. She takes readers through changing times leading up to the Civil War, illustrating how this Southern woman was torn by long-held loyalties conflicting with those of the region where she lived. Extensive research provides valid documentation from primary and secondary sources. Those specific, proper details prove Octavia was-as the title suggests- Such a Woman , a woman for all ages and seasons. The book is a page-turner and a must-read. It is timely and timeless, combined with an appealing style. When you have finished reading it, you will know Octavia.