Ruby Ledger and the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln

by Ari Skolnick

In 1859, Ruby Ledger stands out. She is an extraordinarily brilliant child who loves STEM, history, and learning about the world. She even taught her monkey companion, Coco, to communicate using signs and sounds. Much to the disappointment of her parents, Ruby isn’t like other girls. She’s got a quick mind, and she isn’t interested in a future of just being pretty.

Since the day Ruby was born, she has wanted to be a detective and inventor. She invents the closed candle (the earliest light bulb), the moovo (moving pictures), and many other objects. On her first official mission, she tries to help her family catch a culprit accused of stealing hay. During the mission, however, she is knocked out. When she wakes up, her parents don’t even ask if she is okay! They are cross, and, in their anger, they deliver devastating news – she’s being sent to Miss Holmes’ Academy, a preparatory school for girls located in Washington, D.C.

When Ruby first arrives, she tries to escape but soon realizes she may actually have more freedom at school because her family, ever watchful and, worse, judgmental, is not there. She fills her days with dodging teachers’ questions, skipping class, and – best of all – inventing. Her favorite teacher from home, Mr. Henry, has even accepted a position alongside the Miss Holmes’ Academy staff, making her feel like she’s got at least one adult on her side.

In Ruby’s second semester, Miss Holmes takes Ruby’s year to the White House. While there, Ruby notices a locked metal door and is intrigued. She sneaks away from the group to pick the lock. While in the room, she hides when she hears James Buchanan and an anonymous accomplice attempting to enter. Once inside and oblivious to Ruby’s presence, they begin to discuss a plan written on a scroll to prevent Abraham Lincoln from being elected. Ruby is intrigued, so after they leave, she locates the scroll to investigate. When she finds the scroll, she discovers it contains only colors. She decides to take the scroll with her to break the code.

After breaking the code, she learns that Buchanan wants to assassinate Lincoln as revenge for Lincoln’s uncovering of Buchanan’s own nefarious acts. Ruby decides it’s her mission to stop Lincoln, a man she admires for his ideas about equality, from being assassinated. Along the way, she must confront hard truths about her own history, talents, and intellectual abilities, namely that her mother and father are not her actual mother and father but her aunt and uncle who, upon her birth, made a promise to her biological parents to keep her safe and secluded from the group of worldwide secret operatives she can – if she chooses – count herself among.

381 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 29, 2024

Reviews

[Nolan James · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t expect to be this moved. What starts as a playful, clever reimagining of historical events transforms into something emotionally profound. Ruby’s voice is at once intimate and universal, her desire to fix what's broken, to be seen, to make it right... all of that made me feel so deeply. This book doesn't just entertain, it connects."

[Jessica Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was absolutely hooked from the first chapter of Ruby Ledger and the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln. The mix of history and invention was like nothing I’ve read before. Ruby is such a wonderfully unique character she’s not your typical heroine. She’s not interested in conforming to the roles society has set for her instead, she’s driven by her own passions and an innate curiosity. Her adventures, especially the one involving Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, bring a thrilling twist to historical events. I loved how Ari Skolnick presented a young girl with such a keen intellect, and the added mystery kept me on the edge of my seat.

[Chloe Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby Ledger and the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln had me hooked from start to finish. The blend of history and mystery was brilliant, and Ruby’s determination to stop the assassination plot was both thrilling and emotional. I loved how Ruby wasn’t just trying to solve a mystery she was also growing and learning about herself along the way. The emotional depth of Ruby discovering her true identity added a layer of complexity to the story that I wasn’t expecting. I also appreciated how Skolnick included a lot of fascinating historical details without overwhelming the reader. This is an outstanding book for fans of historical mysteries, young heroines, and adventurous stories.

[Megan Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book blew me away. Ruby Ledger is such an interesting and compelling character. She’s not just a passive observer in history she actively shapes the course of events through her intelligence and creativity. The mystery surrounding Abraham Lincoln’s assassination plot was exciting, but Ruby’s personal journey of discovering the truth about her family and her own identity really gave the story heart. The book is a wonderful mix of history, mystery, and emotional growth, and I truly enjoyed every page of it. If you love historical fiction with a smart and strong female protagonist, this book is a must read.

[Sandra Elliot · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruby Ledger and the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln is a fantastic historical mystery with a brilliant protagonist at its core. Ruby’s inquisitive nature, her inventions, and her determination to solve the assassination plot were all so engaging. The way Skolnick integrates Ruby’s personal development particularly when she learns about her true heritage was beautifully done. The book kept me hooked, with twists and turns that made me want to keep reading. I also really appreciated the historical accuracy, which helped bring the era to life. This is a great read for anyone who loves a good mystery and a strong, inspiring female lead.

[John Rick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby is brilliant, yes, but she’s also relatable in her imperfections. Her relationship with Coco, her monkey companion, was delightful and brought a sense of warmth to the story. As Ruby uncovers the plot against Abraham Lincoln, she matures and learns about the power of choice, courage, and loyalty. I can see young readers, especially girls, looking up to Ruby as a role model, and that’s something I haven’t seen in many historical novels. Highly recommend this for anyone looking for a mix of adventure, history, and personal growth.

[Emily Kendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been an avid reader of historical fiction for years, and Ruby Ledger and the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln is easily one of the best books I’ve read in the genre. The historical events are woven so seamlessly into the plot that you don’t even realize you’re learning about history. Ruby’s character is a breath of fresh air she’s not just a passive observer of history, she’s actively shaping it. Her inventions, like the ‘closed candle and the moovo, feel ahead of their time and showcase Skolnick’s creative genius.

[Smith Ken · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a delightful and refreshing read! Ruby is a strong, clever character who uses her intellect and creativity to solve the mystery surrounding Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. I loved how the book blends historical facts with Ruby’s imaginative inventions and adventures. Her journey of self discovery especially when she learns about her true family was moving and added so much depth to the story. The pacing was perfect, and the plot had just the right amount of suspense to keep me turning the pages. I’m excited to see what Ruby does next in future books.

[Debby Stephaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first chapter, I was drawn into Ruby's world, a strange and enchanting blend of 19th-century history and modern sass. Ari Skolnick has created not just a story, but an experience. The historical setting around Lincoln’s assassination is handled with surprising emotional weight, and Ruby’s perspective brings both clarity and chaos in the best way. I laughed, gasped, and even reread certain passages just to savor the dialogue. A fresh and bold reimagining of a moment in time we all thought we understood.

[Dora Ruyhie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby Ledger is, without exaggeration, one of the most memorable protagonists I’ve encountered in years. She’s clever, impulsive, heartfelt, and occasionally infuriating in the most relatable way. The way Skolnick blends historical fact with spirited imagination is nothing short of genius. I loved how the book balanced humor with deep questions about justice, fate, and identity. There’s also a thread of vulnerability running beneath all the adventure that gave the story real emotional resonance. Highly, highly recommended for readers who like their history with a twist of mischief.

[Kayla Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a rare gem that manages to be wildly entertaining and deeply thought-provoking at the same time. Ruby’s journey through the events surrounding Abraham Lincoln’s assassination offers a new lens on a moment we all think we know. The writing is sharp, witty, and filled with rich, well-researched detail. I found myself completely immersed, not only in the plot but in Ruby’s internal world. Her voice felt so real, like she was telling me this wild story over coffee. Skolnick has a gift for storytelling that shines on every page.

[Leah Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skolnick has pulled off something extraordinary: a young adult historical mystery that’s both heartfelt and hilarious. The book is packed with clever turns of phrase, fast-paced action, and meaningful character development. Ruby isn’t just a time-traveling teen on a mission, she’s a complex, curious, wonderfully flawed human being. The way the author weaves in language, culture, and quirks from the 1800s is brilliantly done, and I appreciated the educational elements tucked between the high-stakes storytelling. This was not just a fun read, it was an unforgettable one.

[Joan Odigie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What blew me away about this book was how layered it was. Yes, it’s about the Lincoln assassination and a brave girl trying to fix history, but it’s also about identity, agency, and the messiness of human motivation. Ruby is sharp-tongued, fiercely loyal, and constantly questioning the world around her, traits that make her a magnetic and inspiring lead. The pacing is spot-on, and I never once lost interest. It’s rare to find a book that both teens and adults can equally enjoy and reflect on. ‘Ruby Ledger’ deserves a spot on every school and library shelf.

[Clara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book in two sittings and immediately wanted more. Ruby’s voice is so distinct, sharp, funny, and brutally honest, and her journey feels incredibly personal despite the historic scale of the story. Skolnick does a fantastic job threading educational moments into the plot without losing narrative momentum. And the emotional beats? They hit hard. Whether it’s Ruby confronting loss, betrayal, or the weight of rewriting history, every moment feels earned. This is the kind of young adult fiction that reminds you why books matter.

[Thomas George · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby Ledger isn’t just a historical novel, it’s a heartfelt letter to curious minds who never felt like they fit in. Ruby is intelligent, impulsive, and beautifully complex. You can feel the weight of the world on her shoulders as she tries to rewrite history, but what makes her compelling is how deeply she cares, about justice, truth, and the people she meets along the way. This book reminded me why I fell in love with historical fiction to begin with, it’s not about the past, it’s about the courage to face it.

[Payton Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the way Ruby describes her surroundings to the breathless tension in the plot’s final chapters, it’s clear this book was written with tremendous care and creativity. I loved how it approached Abraham Lincoln, not just as a historical figure, but as a man Ruby might actually influence. That mix of reverence and playfulness is rare. Also, the attention to period language, objects, and even idioms added an immersive layer that made the story feel grounded and authentic. This is one of those rare YA novels that adults will adore too.

[Oliver Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

The character of Ruby Ledger is a triumph. She’s flawed in all the ways that make a character great: brash, occasionally reckless, deeply principled, and entirely human. She brings modern sensibilities to a historical setting without ever feeling out of place. In fact, her contrast to the time period only makes the world she inhabits more vivid. Ari Skolnick’s prose is equal parts lyrical and sharp, with enough bite to keep you laughing, even as you’re bracing for tragedy. I devoured this book and still wanted more.

[Carmen Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing I’ll say: Ruby Ledger will stay with you. She’s the kind of protagonist you start off chuckling at and end up cheering for with your whole heart. I didn’t expect to feel so emotionally invested, but by the last third of the book, I was completely swept away. There’s something about the way Ruby experiences history, not just as facts and figures, but as living, breathing people, that’s deeply moving. I learned things, felt things, and finished the last page already thinking about the sequel.

[Williams Alexia · Rating 5 out of 5]

What struck me most was the emotional intelligence of this story. Ruby isn’t just navigating history, she’s navigating grief, purpose, and the challenge of being taken seriously in a world where she’s out of place. The author handles those themes with care and depth, without sacrificing the energy and suspense of the plot. There’s a tenderness under all the banter that gave the book real staying power for me. If you love historical fiction with strong female leads and a beating heart, don’t miss this.

[Noah Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was completely blown away by this novel. From the very first page, I was pulled into Ruby Ledger’s world and didn’t want to leave. The historical detail is outstanding, you can tell the author did an incredible amount of research, but it never feels heavy. Instead, it feels alive and immersive. The buildup to Lincoln’s assassination had me on edge, even though I already knew what history tells us happened. Ruby is such a powerful character: bold, vulnerable, and endlessly compelling. This is one of those rare books that stays with you long after the last page.

[Samuel Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is more than a book, it’s an experience. The author has managed to transport readers back in time with such precision and passion that I felt like I was truly living in Ruby’s world. The narrative builds beautifully, balancing suspense, emotion, and history with incredible skill. Ruby’s character development is inspiring, and the way she’s woven into the historical event of Lincoln’s assassination is seamless. I finished this novel feeling both educated and moved. That’s the mark of great storytelling.

[Harvey Swift · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is everything I love about historical fiction. It brings the past to life in a way that feels so immediate and human. Ruby Ledger is a heroine for the ages, smart, brave, and unafraid to challenge the world around her. The writing is gripping, and the tension builds beautifully toward Lincoln’s assassination. Even though I knew how history ends, I still found myself anxiously flipping the pages. The author has created something extraordinary here, and I can’t wait to see what they write next.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby Ledger and the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln is a captivating blend of historical fiction and mystery. Skolnick weaves together a gripping tale with a unique protagonist who refuses to conform to societal expectations. Ruby’s journey to uncover a hidden plot against President Lincoln kept me on the edge of my seat. Her determination and wit shine through every chapter, making this an unforgettable read for anyone who loves history, mystery, and strong female characters.

[Hewit Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an absolute joy to read. Ruby Ledger is such a likable and resourceful protagonist, and her adventures are full of surprises. The idea of her uncovering a plot against Lincoln is brilliant, and the historical setting is meticulously researched. The mystery kept me hooked, and the way Ruby navigates her world of expectations and limitations made for a great, empowering narrative. Highly recommend it!

[Hector · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruby Ledger is the kind of character I wish I had growing up. She's smart, fearless, and determined to follow her own path, no matter what society or her parents say. The suspense surrounding the assassination plot was thrilling, and I loved how Ruby unraveled each clue. The historical elements were well integrated, giving the story a sense of authenticity. This is a must read for fans of historical mysteries and young detective stories.

[Katie T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect to love this book as much as I did. Ruby Ledger’s story was so much more than just an adventure or a historical mystery it was a story about self discovery and resilience. Throughout the book, Ruby is forced to confront difficult truths about herself, especially when she uncovers the secrets surrounding her family. What I appreciated most about this novel was the depth of the character development.

[Alice Winn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely mesmerizing from beginning to end. The historical research is top-notch, but what really shines is the imagination behind it. Skolnick doesn't just ask 'what if', he asks, 'what would it feel like?' The result is a book that balances wonder and danger with incredible finesse. Ruby’s interactions with historical figures, the ripple effects of her presence, and the emotional toll of her choices made for a gripping and meaningful read. I can’t recommend this highly enough.

[Elisa Stromberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me remember why I love reading. It had me laughing out loud one minute and gripping the edge of my seat the next. Ruby Ledger is unlike any character I’ve ever met, she’s sharp, relatable, and refreshingly bold. The story doesn’t just play with history, it challenges it, examines it, and reimagines it in a way that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. A brilliant debut and one of my favorite reads of the year.

[Giorgia Venera · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me remember why I love reading. It had me laughing out loud one minute and gripping the edge of my seat the next. Ruby Ledger is unlike any character I’ve ever met, she’s sharp, relatable, and refreshingly bold. The story doesn’t just play with history, it challenges it, examines it, and reimagines it in a way that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. A brilliant debut and one of my favorite reads of the year.

[Marcos Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the opening line, I could tell this wasn’t going to be a typical historical fiction read, and I was right. Ruby Ledger bursts off the page with wit, heart, and purpose. I felt like I was in the room with her, witnessing not only the echoes of history, but the very real internal battle she carries. This isn’t just a story, it’s a full-bodied experience that stayed with me long after I turned the final page.