Libbie: A Novel by Judy Alter, is an insightful, fascinating re-creation of the life of Elizabeth Bacon Custer, wife of legendary George Armstrong Custer. The author brings life to the page with vivid descriptions of the story’s characters and their surroundings. Although a work of fiction, it closely follows documented history, letters and other writings.
Libbie, an only child, came from a family of wealth. Her father, a judge, took a dim view of “that Custer boy.” George came from a large, boisterous farming family. The two of them couldn’t have had more different backgrounds, yet they were drawn to one another. As a boy, George declared that one day Libbie would be a general’s wife.
When Custer graduated from West Point, he sought Libbie’s hand in marriage. Even Libbie’s father admitted admiration for Custer’s Civil War military achievement. At age 23, Custer was the youngest brigadier general in the U. S. Army. And Custer was right—Libbie did marry a general. The “boy general” was astute in military matters, but vain and impulsive in his personal life. Nevertheless, when together their life was passionate, their love unwavering.
Libbie became a camp follower. Although she was the General’s wife, she endured hardships with inclement weather, isolation, and difficult traveling conditions. Still, she loved Army life and made her own contribution toward the comfort of others.
When the Civil War ended, Custer continued his military career as an Indian fighter, again winning honors. They traveled to various military forts, but it was in 1867 at Fort Lincoln, Dakota Territory, that Libbie waited for her beloved husband of twelve years while he fought the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
My interest was piqued with this review, Mary. Kudos to Judy for sharing Elizabeth Custer’s story and how Dee Brown sparked Judy’s interest. Two books I now have on my TBR list. Thank you.
Thank YOU for your comment, Alice. I read this while on our camping trip and it made the trip even more special.
Can’t wait to read this. Love stories about the “Gentle Tamers” of the Old West.
You’ll love this book, Kimberly. It’s a surprising look at Mrs. General Custer.
Thanks to Mary for the wonderful review, and to Kimberly for the interest. I guess, Kimberly, you’ve read Dee Brown’s The Gentle Tamers. One of my first introductions, back in the seventies, to writing about women of the West. I was hooked and still am!
You’re so welcome, Judy. It was my pleasure to read and review this fine book.