LONGWOOD, FL-Born a slave and gifted as a dressmaker and entrepreneur, Elizabeth Keckly purchases her freedom as the Civil War is about to begin. Moving to Washington, she becomes one of the city's pre-eminent dressmakers. When Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln settle in the White House in 1861, Mary chooses Mrs. Keckly as her primary dressmaker. Elizabeth soon becomes a dear friend of both the Lincolns. Tim Jorgenson's Mrs Keckly Sends Her Regards (paperback, 978-1-60266-788-4) is a story of the 40 days preceding President Lincoln's assassination and the days following, when friendship and faith and secrets were tested by events. It is the story of a love that sought to heal the hurts of each as two wars in the nation and in the White House drew to an end.
Says Jorgenson, "I hope readers gain an appreciation for Elizabeth Keckly, who lived a rather extraordinary life as a former slave who developed a flourishing business and became an intimate of the Lincoln family. She lived out a life of sacrificial giving. Her life serves as a model of faith, hope, and love in the name of Christ."
A pertinent chronology and a list of suggested readings are appended to the novel to aid students with budding interests in Elizabeth Keckly, the Lincoln family, or the American Civil War. And though he takes great pains to point out that he is no Keckly or Civil War authority, Jorgenson seamlessly blends fiction and drama to create a probable "what if?" scenario for history buffs everywhere.
Tim Jorgenson lives with his wife and two daughters in the Midwest, where he works as a consultant.
Xulon Press, a part of Salem Communications Corporation, is the world's largest Christian publisher, with more than 3,900 titles published to date. Retailers may order Mrs. Keckly Sends Her Regards through Ingram Book Company and/or Spring Arbor Book Distributors. Salem Communications is the country's leading Christian communications company with interests in radio, Internet, and magazine publishing.
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2007