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The Queen of the Platform
From the award-winning author of The Stolen Crown and Hanging Mary comes a novel based on the life of the indomitable Ernestine Rose, whose fearless advocacy helped bring about the rights women enjoy today.
Question everything, Ernestine vows while growing up in a Poland ravaged by the Napoleonic wars. Accept nothing blindly.
Rejecting her rabbi father’s religion and an arranged marriage, Ernestine strikes out on her own, arriving in New York in 1836. Distressed by the injustices around her, she takes to the public speaking platform, pressing for the abolition of slavery and for women’s rights alongside activists like Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. But at a time when women are expected to confine themselves to the parlor and the hearth—and when an atheist is best advised to say nothing at all—is Ernestine’s adopted country ready to hear her?
Following Ernestine through triumph and heartbreak and across two continents, The Queen of the Platform brings out of history’s shadows a heroine who braved public scorn to fight for the values she held dear.
Question everything, Ernestine vows while growing up in a Poland ravaged by the Napoleonic wars. Accept nothing blindly.
Rejecting her rabbi father’s religion and an arranged marriage, Ernestine strikes out on her own, arriving in New York in 1836. Distressed by the injustices around her, she takes to the public speaking platform, pressing for the abolition of slavery and for women’s rights alongside activists like Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. But at a time when women are expected to confine themselves to the parlor and the hearth—and when an atheist is best advised to say nothing at all—is Ernestine’s adopted country ready to hear her?
Following Ernestine through triumph and heartbreak and across two continents, The Queen of the Platform brings out of history’s shadows a heroine who braved public scorn to fight for the values she held dear.
373 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2024
9 people are currently reading
1501 people want to read
About the author
Susan Higginbotham
20 books1,024 followersWelcome! I write historical fiction and nonfiction set in medieval and Tudor England and, most recently, nineteenth-century America.
As a writer of biographical fiction, one of my main goals is to avoid the stereotypes, myths, and misconceptions that have gathered around historical figures over the centuries. At the same time, I strive to remain true to known historical facts and to the mores of the times in which my characters lived. I use both primary sources and modern historical research to bring my characters to life.
As a writer of biographical fiction, one of my main goals is to avoid the stereotypes, myths, and misconceptions that have gathered around historical figures over the centuries. At the same time, I strive to remain true to known historical facts and to the mores of the times in which my characters lived. I use both primary sources and modern historical research to bring my characters to life.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 21, 2024
An amazing, brave, and fascinating woman.
She didn't give up on what she believed in and never stopped trying to better things for women until she was too unwell to do it anymore.
Really admire her. (I think we would have been friends if we had met).
Read the author's note at the end:).
She didn't give up on what she believed in and never stopped trying to better things for women until she was too unwell to do it anymore.
Really admire her. (I think we would have been friends if we had met).
Read the author's note at the end:).
February 13, 2024
Lessor known historical figures have always intrigued me, but after reading Susan Higginbotham's most recent work, it's hard to believe Ernestine Rose is among them!
Staunch and indominable in her efforts to champion the rights of women, right social wrongs, and fight for personal liberty, Ernestine Rose crossed paths with a host of well-known reformers, made headlines across America, and broke many of society's norms. My kinda girl!
As if we sat beside her in her later years as she recounted her life, her bravery, character, and loves come to life on the pages, carrying us across the turbulent and influential times she lived through. As you would expect from Higginbotham's previous books, her research is impeccable, the writing is rich with detail, and the story is full of surprises and insights- enough to satisfy any historical fiction reader.
Adding another complex and intriguing woman to her already impressive collection of novels, I can't wait to see who Susan Higginbotham chooses to write about next!
I received an advance reading copy of this book.
Staunch and indominable in her efforts to champion the rights of women, right social wrongs, and fight for personal liberty, Ernestine Rose crossed paths with a host of well-known reformers, made headlines across America, and broke many of society's norms. My kinda girl!
As if we sat beside her in her later years as she recounted her life, her bravery, character, and loves come to life on the pages, carrying us across the turbulent and influential times she lived through. As you would expect from Higginbotham's previous books, her research is impeccable, the writing is rich with detail, and the story is full of surprises and insights- enough to satisfy any historical fiction reader.
Adding another complex and intriguing woman to her already impressive collection of novels, I can't wait to see who Susan Higginbotham chooses to write about next!
I received an advance reading copy of this book.
February 13, 2024
Lessor known historical figures have always intrigued me, but after reading Susan Higginbotham's most recent work, it's hard to believe Ernestine Rose is among them!
Staunch and indominable in her efforts to champion the rights of women, right social wrongs, and fight for personal liberty, Ernestine Rose crossed paths with a host of well-known reformers, made headlines across America, and broke many of society's norms. My kinda girl!
As if we sat beside her in her later years as she recounted her life, her bravery, character, and loves come to life on the pages, carrying us across the turbulent and influential times she lived through. As you would expect from Higginbotham's previous books, her research is impeccable, the writing is rich with detail, and the story is full of surprises and insights- enough to satisfy any historical fiction reader.
Adding another complex and intriguing woman to her already impressive collection of novels, I can't wait to see who Susan Higginbotham chooses to write about next!
I received an advance reading copy of this book.
Staunch and indominable in her efforts to champion the rights of women, right social wrongs, and fight for personal liberty, Ernestine Rose crossed paths with a host of well-known reformers, made headlines across America, and broke many of society's norms. My kinda girl!
As if we sat beside her in her later years as she recounted her life, her bravery, character, and loves come to life on the pages, carrying us across the turbulent and influential times she lived through. As you would expect from Higginbotham's previous books, her research is impeccable, the writing is rich with detail, and the story is full of surprises and insights- enough to satisfy any historical fiction reader.
Adding another complex and intriguing woman to her already impressive collection of novels, I can't wait to see who Susan Higginbotham chooses to write about next!
I received an advance reading copy of this book.
March 12, 2024
I had never heard of Ernestine Rose but am very familiar with the feminist movement and time periods Higginbotham covers in the novel.
I learned so much about the life of such an unconventional woman. I loved that she lived life on her terms, even though sometimes it came with a high price.
Rose’a life spanned so many pivotal events in the 19th century, both in Europe and the US. I loved her international background and how she was able to immerse herself in the different countries she was living.
I found her relationships with Anthony and Stanton to be noteworthy.
I found the novel to be enlightening as Rose’s activism was set against a backdrop of change and turmoil. I appreciate Higginbotham for bringing Rose out of obscurity, at least for me.
Thanks to the author for the physical copy!
I learned so much about the life of such an unconventional woman. I loved that she lived life on her terms, even though sometimes it came with a high price.
Rose’a life spanned so many pivotal events in the 19th century, both in Europe and the US. I loved her international background and how she was able to immerse herself in the different countries she was living.
I found her relationships with Anthony and Stanton to be noteworthy.
I found the novel to be enlightening as Rose’s activism was set against a backdrop of change and turmoil. I appreciate Higginbotham for bringing Rose out of obscurity, at least for me.
Thanks to the author for the physical copy!
March 14, 2024
This is an excellently written biographical novel about a remarkable woman. Ernestine Rose is my new 19th century feminist hero and Susan Higginbotham is my new author hero for introducing me to her and for her impeccable research and engaging writing. This is biographical fiction at its best. I highly recommend it.
November 13, 2025
Ernestine Rose was an abolitionist and an activist in women’s rights. Ernestine Rose grew up in Poland which was under the rule of the Russian czar. Her father was a Jewish rabbi. Ernestine eventually rejects her Jewish religion and the man that her family arranged for her to marry. She eventually emigrates to the United States. Ernestine begins speaking out about the injustices that have plagued her new country. She befriends many activists like Frederick Douglas, Susan B. Anthony, and Elizabeth Cary Stanton.
I have never heard of Ernestine Rose. Therefore, I was interested in reading about her. Ernestine was a very likable character. She is very intelligent. She loves reading and knows several languages. She has a thirst for knowledge and has an inquisitive mind. However, Ernestine is very rebellious. She turns against her father who tries to force her to marry a man she doesn’t love. She runs to Berlin to live with her sister. I found Ernestine to be very spirited. There were times that I found she was reckless, and I did not like the decisions she made in the story. However, she never stops fighting for what she believes is right. She was always true to herself. Therefore, I found Ernestine to be a very admirable and courageous character.
Overall, this book is about choices, justice, and freedom. I found all of the characters to be very realistic and complex. I loved Ernestine Rose’s mission for the equality of women. I did think that this novel was very slow-moving and drawn out. However, I thought that it was meticulously researched, and it felt as if I was walking beside Ernestine Rose. This book made me want to research more about this little known historical figure. I recommend this book for fans of Madame Presidentess, Finding Margaret Fuller, and A Right Worthy Woman!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
I have never heard of Ernestine Rose. Therefore, I was interested in reading about her. Ernestine was a very likable character. She is very intelligent. She loves reading and knows several languages. She has a thirst for knowledge and has an inquisitive mind. However, Ernestine is very rebellious. She turns against her father who tries to force her to marry a man she doesn’t love. She runs to Berlin to live with her sister. I found Ernestine to be very spirited. There were times that I found she was reckless, and I did not like the decisions she made in the story. However, she never stops fighting for what she believes is right. She was always true to herself. Therefore, I found Ernestine to be a very admirable and courageous character.
Overall, this book is about choices, justice, and freedom. I found all of the characters to be very realistic and complex. I loved Ernestine Rose’s mission for the equality of women. I did think that this novel was very slow-moving and drawn out. However, I thought that it was meticulously researched, and it felt as if I was walking beside Ernestine Rose. This book made me want to research more about this little known historical figure. I recommend this book for fans of Madame Presidentess, Finding Margaret Fuller, and A Right Worthy Woman!
(Note: I read an ARC copy of this book in courtesy of Netgalley.)
September 5, 2025
Beautifully composed and thoroughly researched
I will never pass up an historical fiction with a strong, feisty female lead, and this does not disappoint. The Queen of the Platform is a wonderful novel about the life and works of Ernestine Rose. Starting with her modest beginnings in Poland in the early 19th century, the daughter of a rabbi, she fought for herself, won, and surprised everyone in the process. She carried that independence throughout her life and was not apologetic for it.
Ernestine's experiences were vast: she knew six languages, met fascinating people including Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Frederick Douglass, and the king of Prussia. She traveled the world, survived the 1830 French revolution, fought for women's' suffrage, right to own property, lived through the American Civil War, and fell in love. She lived a truly full life.
Susan Higginbotham clearly did her research and, where research left some gaps, she made lovely storylines that certainly could be true. Her writing was true to the period and transported me back to that time. Her story is a great reminder that we should always fight for what we believe to be right, even if it may not be popular.
I will never pass up an historical fiction with a strong, feisty female lead, and this does not disappoint. The Queen of the Platform is a wonderful novel about the life and works of Ernestine Rose. Starting with her modest beginnings in Poland in the early 19th century, the daughter of a rabbi, she fought for herself, won, and surprised everyone in the process. She carried that independence throughout her life and was not apologetic for it.
Ernestine's experiences were vast: she knew six languages, met fascinating people including Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Frederick Douglass, and the king of Prussia. She traveled the world, survived the 1830 French revolution, fought for women's' suffrage, right to own property, lived through the American Civil War, and fell in love. She lived a truly full life.
Susan Higginbotham clearly did her research and, where research left some gaps, she made lovely storylines that certainly could be true. Her writing was true to the period and transported me back to that time. Her story is a great reminder that we should always fight for what we believe to be right, even if it may not be popular.
March 9, 2024
Honestly, before reading this book I had never heard of its protagonist, a Jewish woman who played quite a prominent role in the fight for human rights in the United States. Meet Ernestine Rose (1810-1892). Born the daughter of a Rabbi in Poland, Rose was highly educated, which was uncommon for women of her era. She traveled, spending time in Belgium, France, and England before moving with her husband to the U.S.
Once there, Rose becomes a prominent public speaker supporting women's rights, suffrage, and abolition. Along the way, meeting many of the heavy thinkers and activists of her day: Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Lucretia Mott, William Lloyd Garrison, and Fredrick Douglass. Most of whom show up in this novel.
Things don't always go well for Rose. At this time, it's not generally considered proper for a woman to do public speaking of any kind. Women's rights and anti-slavery work aren't universally popular in the mid 19th century, especially in the Southern states. Plus, Rose proclaims herself an atheist in a country that's overtly Christian. So, she sees her share of name-calling, anti-semitism, prejudice, and hostility. Not to mention personal tragedy.
In THE QUEEN OF THE PLATFORM: A NOVEL OF WOMEN'S RIGHTS ACTIVIST ERNESTINE ROSE author Susan Higginbotham recounts Rose's entire life, which I found quite interesting. Especially not having heard of her before this book. In fact, I often find historical fiction the most enjoyable when it helps me learn about someone new. I also appreciated this portrait of American life in the mid 1800s, especially the years leading up to the American Civil War (1861-65).
I did begin to find, about midway though, that some of the details around Rose's countless speaking engagements (at times long passages from her talks are quoted), her conflicts with peers, and travels around the country slowed the book down a bit. But not enough to keep me from finishing.
This book is a good way to learn more about this country's early feminists but what I found most interesting was reading about how the abolition movement became separated from the feminist movement, even though both are closely linked to human rights and freedom.
Once there, Rose becomes a prominent public speaker supporting women's rights, suffrage, and abolition. Along the way, meeting many of the heavy thinkers and activists of her day: Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Lucretia Mott, William Lloyd Garrison, and Fredrick Douglass. Most of whom show up in this novel.
Things don't always go well for Rose. At this time, it's not generally considered proper for a woman to do public speaking of any kind. Women's rights and anti-slavery work aren't universally popular in the mid 19th century, especially in the Southern states. Plus, Rose proclaims herself an atheist in a country that's overtly Christian. So, she sees her share of name-calling, anti-semitism, prejudice, and hostility. Not to mention personal tragedy.
In THE QUEEN OF THE PLATFORM: A NOVEL OF WOMEN'S RIGHTS ACTIVIST ERNESTINE ROSE author Susan Higginbotham recounts Rose's entire life, which I found quite interesting. Especially not having heard of her before this book. In fact, I often find historical fiction the most enjoyable when it helps me learn about someone new. I also appreciated this portrait of American life in the mid 1800s, especially the years leading up to the American Civil War (1861-65).
I did begin to find, about midway though, that some of the details around Rose's countless speaking engagements (at times long passages from her talks are quoted), her conflicts with peers, and travels around the country slowed the book down a bit. But not enough to keep me from finishing.
This book is a good way to learn more about this country's early feminists but what I found most interesting was reading about how the abolition movement became separated from the feminist movement, even though both are closely linked to human rights and freedom.
January 19, 2024
Susan Higginbotham delivers a captivating tale in "The Queen of the Platform." This novel is a richly detailed journey through the life of Ernestine Rose, a woman whose name is etched deeply in the annals of women's rights history.
The story begins with Ernestine, in her retirement years, reflecting on her past. We are taken to her childhood in Poland, under the heel of Russian rule, where young Ernestine, then Esther Zussmund, develops a fierce independent streak and an unquenchable thirst for justice. Her early life is marked by challenges, including the loss of her brother, anti-Semitic bullying, and a profound disillusionment with her father's rigid religious views.
Ernestine's refusal to succumb to an arranged marriage, her self-taught legal prowess, and her relentless pursuit of personal freedom and intellectual growth are awe-inspiring. The novel shines a light on her various transformations - from Esther to Ernestine, from Poland to Berlin, Paris, London, and eventually to America. Each transition is a testament to her resilience and undying spirit.
In America, Ernestine's story intersects with historical giants like Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Her engagement in the abolitionist movement and the fight for women's rights is portrayed with an authenticity that immerses readers in the era.
What stands out in Higginbotham's narrative is her ability to humanize Ernestine. Beyond her public persona, we see her vulnerabilities, her romantic life, and the personal losses that shaped her. Her relationship with William Rose is not just a love story but a partnership of equals, rare for its time. Yet, her unyielding spirit and belief in her cause keep her moving forward, earning her the title "Queen of the Platform" from Susan B. Anthony.
This novel is not just about a woman fighting for her rights; it's a saga of an extraordinary life lived with unrelenting courage and conviction. Ernestine Rose's story, as brought to life by Susan Higginbotham, is indeed a voice that echoed through time, and this novel ensures it will continue to resonate.
The story begins with Ernestine, in her retirement years, reflecting on her past. We are taken to her childhood in Poland, under the heel of Russian rule, where young Ernestine, then Esther Zussmund, develops a fierce independent streak and an unquenchable thirst for justice. Her early life is marked by challenges, including the loss of her brother, anti-Semitic bullying, and a profound disillusionment with her father's rigid religious views.
Ernestine's refusal to succumb to an arranged marriage, her self-taught legal prowess, and her relentless pursuit of personal freedom and intellectual growth are awe-inspiring. The novel shines a light on her various transformations - from Esther to Ernestine, from Poland to Berlin, Paris, London, and eventually to America. Each transition is a testament to her resilience and undying spirit.
In America, Ernestine's story intersects with historical giants like Frederick Douglass, Susan B. Anthony, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Her engagement in the abolitionist movement and the fight for women's rights is portrayed with an authenticity that immerses readers in the era.
What stands out in Higginbotham's narrative is her ability to humanize Ernestine. Beyond her public persona, we see her vulnerabilities, her romantic life, and the personal losses that shaped her. Her relationship with William Rose is not just a love story but a partnership of equals, rare for its time. Yet, her unyielding spirit and belief in her cause keep her moving forward, earning her the title "Queen of the Platform" from Susan B. Anthony.
This novel is not just about a woman fighting for her rights; it's a saga of an extraordinary life lived with unrelenting courage and conviction. Ernestine Rose's story, as brought to life by Susan Higginbotham, is indeed a voice that echoed through time, and this novel ensures it will continue to resonate.
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March 13, 2024I can't believe I have never heard of Ernestine Rose, a tour de force in the women's rights movement. The author gives us the full story of her life, from early childhood in a little town in Poland to her death in old age in England.
Ernestine Rose was born as Ernestine Zussmund in the early 1800s, the daughter of a Rabbi, she questioned everything and looked for answers, so much so that her father taught her the Talmud and engaged in the learning of it with her, the going back and forth of questions and answers, and debating about it, giving her the foundations for her life as a speaker and debater.
When her father arranged a marriage for her, as customary at that time and in that society she rebels against it, starting her life as a free thinker and fighting for the equality of the sexes.
Her life turns at that point when she leaves her house in Poland and goes to live with her sister and her Rabbi husband in Berlin. She is forced by life circumstances to renounce her judaism and convert to Catholicism when she became pregnant and married the father of her baby (who also had to convert). But at the end it didn't matter what religion she "professed" since she became an atheist and remained as one until her death.
She lived in several places, Berlin, Paris, London and the USA, and in every one of them she fought for women's rights. equality, anti slavery. But her main work was in the United States when she became on the founders of the Women's movement and was named The Queen of the Platform.
She lived an extraordinary life and left her mark as a free thinker, abolitionist and suffragist.
This book entertained me but most importantly introduced me and taught me about the life of this amazing woman who gave all of herself to her beliefs and to the betterment and equality of women.
Ernestine Rose was born as Ernestine Zussmund in the early 1800s, the daughter of a Rabbi, she questioned everything and looked for answers, so much so that her father taught her the Talmud and engaged in the learning of it with her, the going back and forth of questions and answers, and debating about it, giving her the foundations for her life as a speaker and debater.
When her father arranged a marriage for her, as customary at that time and in that society she rebels against it, starting her life as a free thinker and fighting for the equality of the sexes.
Her life turns at that point when she leaves her house in Poland and goes to live with her sister and her Rabbi husband in Berlin. She is forced by life circumstances to renounce her judaism and convert to Catholicism when she became pregnant and married the father of her baby (who also had to convert). But at the end it didn't matter what religion she "professed" since she became an atheist and remained as one until her death.
She lived in several places, Berlin, Paris, London and the USA, and in every one of them she fought for women's rights. equality, anti slavery. But her main work was in the United States when she became on the founders of the Women's movement and was named The Queen of the Platform.
She lived an extraordinary life and left her mark as a free thinker, abolitionist and suffragist.
This book entertained me but most importantly introduced me and taught me about the life of this amazing woman who gave all of herself to her beliefs and to the betterment and equality of women.
March 18, 2024
One of the best books I've read, about one of the most interesting women ever! Ernestine Rose was a fearless, tireless advocate for the rights of women, including universal suffrage, and rights of immigrants. Born into a Polish Jewish family, Ernestine rejects the man her father has arranged for her to be married to, leading to a lawsuit against her. Ernestine does her research and represents herself, winning the case. She ultimately marries for love, but the marriage goes south and she divorces her husband (it was much simpler and more accepted than would be expected for the time and place. Ernestine begins a career as a speaker on human rights and women's rights, and while living in London meets William, 6 years her junior. They start as friends and become lovers, ultimately marrying, and William goes with Ernestine to America.
The platform in the title refers to the platform Ernestine develops for her tireless advocacy for women and the underserved. What an amazing person she was, and how enormous her impact! Susan Higginbotham does a fabulous job bringing this amazing woman to life; her painstaking research and passion for her subject are clear. Don't miss this wonderful 10 star read!
The platform in the title refers to the platform Ernestine develops for her tireless advocacy for women and the underserved. What an amazing person she was, and how enormous her impact! Susan Higginbotham does a fabulous job bringing this amazing woman to life; her painstaking research and passion for her subject are clear. Don't miss this wonderful 10 star read!
February 12, 2024
The Queen of the Platform, Susan Higginbotham’s fabulous upcoming novel, masterfully tells the remarkable tale of Ernestine Rose - a proud infidel, feminist, abolitionist, and suffragette.
This novel is so great that no words can do it justice. In just 341 pages, Higginbotham recounts the extraordinary story of a woman who defied societal norms. This captivating narrative tells the incredible life story of Ernestine Rose. Not only is her story masterfully retold, but it seems that Higginbotham is determined to arouse every conceivable emotion from her readers, and such writing made this book next to impossible to put down.
Ernestine was born in Piotrków Trybunalski, Poland, and the story opens at a particularly distressing moment in her life, the death of her beloved baby brother, Jacob. Ernestine, not knowing what to say, innocently asks her mother if she could perhaps have another baby, without realising it would be dangerous for her mother to do so. Having unintentionally caused upset, Ernestine takes herself on a walk, daring to go past the Jewish quarter and into the Christian domain. This walk leaves a lasting impression on the young girl’s mind, for this is the first time she has come face to face with anti-Semitism and the so-called blood libel. However, as with many things in Ernestine’s life, there is always a silver lining — she is rescued from the taunts and threats of a group of boys by a bookshop owner. The bookshop owner takes Ernestine to his shop and there she chooses a book to take home about George Washington (her favourite American president). Her fascination with all things America as a child perhaps paved the way for her one day becoming a citizen.
Ernestine was a woman before her time. Her ideas and theories have certainly paved the way for womens rights, and yet she would still be in the right place on a modern platform. She realised that progress in women’s rights is not something that will be foreordained. If women want equal rights, then they would have to fight for them. Ernestine is determined that her voice will be heard. Later she would be known as the “first Jewish feminist,” but at the time she was simply a woman with a notion that she could use her voice, and her ability to persuade to make lasting changes to woman suffrage, by writing, lobbying and of course, standing on the platform and using her voice as a tool for reason. Without a doubt, Ernestine was a major intellectual force in nineteenth-century America, but there was so much more to her than her public persona and Higginbotham has presented her readers with a novel that encompasses her personal life as well as her public one.
I must commend the meticulous attention to historical detail. The author’s commitment to studying this period is praiseworthy. Higginbotham has delved deeply into Ernestine’s life, capturing all the significant events, as well as some of the more mundane daily occurrences. The protagonist of this novel defied her religion, stood up for herself in court, and came out victorious. She travelled extensively and became fast friends with the most influential early 19th-century advocates of utopian socialism — Robert Owen - and finally became an American citizen, Higginbotham reminds the reader that she was also a daughter, wife, mother, sister, and friend. Although Ernestine is remembered for her influential speeches, it was Ernestine’s personal story that often brought tears to my eyes.
Ernestine’s story is not just about her, it is about the wider political climate. The Peculiar Institution, Bleeding Kansas, The American Civil War, and the assassination of President Lincoln are driving factors in this novel. Ernestine is greatly influenced by what is going on around her, and at times she finds herself in danger because of the things she dares to speak about (especially when in the South) but she is also steadfast in her determination to achieve the seemingly impossible. The risk she takes makes for some thrilling reading, but in every situation her very dry sense of humour made me smile despite the danger she was in - the incident with the horse was both thrilling and profoundly amusing. Higginbotham certainly shines a glaring light on the uphill struggle Ernestine and her fellow activists faced.
The author’s depiction of Ernestine was sublime but so was the depiction of Ernestine’s husband, William Rose. William is Ernestine’s safe-haven but he is also one of her most ardent supporters. He is as forward-thinking as she is, and their love is deep and true. As a couple, they do face some terrible hardships and a great loss. William was a character that I instantly connected with and adored, his unshakeable love, and his sense of pride at Ernestine’s achievements made him incredibly likeable. He is content to stay in the shadows while his wife shines in her spotlight, and his sense of pride in her achievements is clear for everyone to see.
The Queen of the Platform: A Novel of Women’s Rights Activist Ernestine Rose by Susan Higginbotham is an undoubtable success. Higginbotham has taken Ernestine’s story and breathed new life into it. This is a story that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page. A really great read.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
Yarde Book Reviews & Book Promotion
This novel is so great that no words can do it justice. In just 341 pages, Higginbotham recounts the extraordinary story of a woman who defied societal norms. This captivating narrative tells the incredible life story of Ernestine Rose. Not only is her story masterfully retold, but it seems that Higginbotham is determined to arouse every conceivable emotion from her readers, and such writing made this book next to impossible to put down.
Ernestine was born in Piotrków Trybunalski, Poland, and the story opens at a particularly distressing moment in her life, the death of her beloved baby brother, Jacob. Ernestine, not knowing what to say, innocently asks her mother if she could perhaps have another baby, without realising it would be dangerous for her mother to do so. Having unintentionally caused upset, Ernestine takes herself on a walk, daring to go past the Jewish quarter and into the Christian domain. This walk leaves a lasting impression on the young girl’s mind, for this is the first time she has come face to face with anti-Semitism and the so-called blood libel. However, as with many things in Ernestine’s life, there is always a silver lining — she is rescued from the taunts and threats of a group of boys by a bookshop owner. The bookshop owner takes Ernestine to his shop and there she chooses a book to take home about George Washington (her favourite American president). Her fascination with all things America as a child perhaps paved the way for her one day becoming a citizen.
Ernestine was a woman before her time. Her ideas and theories have certainly paved the way for womens rights, and yet she would still be in the right place on a modern platform. She realised that progress in women’s rights is not something that will be foreordained. If women want equal rights, then they would have to fight for them. Ernestine is determined that her voice will be heard. Later she would be known as the “first Jewish feminist,” but at the time she was simply a woman with a notion that she could use her voice, and her ability to persuade to make lasting changes to woman suffrage, by writing, lobbying and of course, standing on the platform and using her voice as a tool for reason. Without a doubt, Ernestine was a major intellectual force in nineteenth-century America, but there was so much more to her than her public persona and Higginbotham has presented her readers with a novel that encompasses her personal life as well as her public one.
I must commend the meticulous attention to historical detail. The author’s commitment to studying this period is praiseworthy. Higginbotham has delved deeply into Ernestine’s life, capturing all the significant events, as well as some of the more mundane daily occurrences. The protagonist of this novel defied her religion, stood up for herself in court, and came out victorious. She travelled extensively and became fast friends with the most influential early 19th-century advocates of utopian socialism — Robert Owen - and finally became an American citizen, Higginbotham reminds the reader that she was also a daughter, wife, mother, sister, and friend. Although Ernestine is remembered for her influential speeches, it was Ernestine’s personal story that often brought tears to my eyes.
Ernestine’s story is not just about her, it is about the wider political climate. The Peculiar Institution, Bleeding Kansas, The American Civil War, and the assassination of President Lincoln are driving factors in this novel. Ernestine is greatly influenced by what is going on around her, and at times she finds herself in danger because of the things she dares to speak about (especially when in the South) but she is also steadfast in her determination to achieve the seemingly impossible. The risk she takes makes for some thrilling reading, but in every situation her very dry sense of humour made me smile despite the danger she was in - the incident with the horse was both thrilling and profoundly amusing. Higginbotham certainly shines a glaring light on the uphill struggle Ernestine and her fellow activists faced.
The author’s depiction of Ernestine was sublime but so was the depiction of Ernestine’s husband, William Rose. William is Ernestine’s safe-haven but he is also one of her most ardent supporters. He is as forward-thinking as she is, and their love is deep and true. As a couple, they do face some terrible hardships and a great loss. William was a character that I instantly connected with and adored, his unshakeable love, and his sense of pride at Ernestine’s achievements made him incredibly likeable. He is content to stay in the shadows while his wife shines in her spotlight, and his sense of pride in her achievements is clear for everyone to see.
The Queen of the Platform: A Novel of Women’s Rights Activist Ernestine Rose by Susan Higginbotham is an undoubtable success. Higginbotham has taken Ernestine’s story and breathed new life into it. This is a story that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page. A really great read.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
Yarde Book Reviews & Book Promotion
August 10, 2025
Book Review: The Queen of the Platform by Susan Higginbotham
Rating: 4.5/5
Analysis & Thematic Depth
Susan Higginbotham’s The Queen of the Platform is a meticulously researched and vividly rendered portrait of Ernestine Rose, a trailblazing 19th-century feminist, abolitionist, and freethinker whose legacy has often been overshadowed by her contemporaries like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Higginbotham’s strength lies in her ability to balance historical fidelity with narrative momentum, immersing readers in Ernestine’s world—from the turmoil of Napoleonic Poland to the fervor of abolitionist New York. The novel’s exploration of Ernestine’s atheism and rejection of patriarchal norms (e.g., refusing an arranged marriage) is particularly bold, challenging romanticized notions of women’s activism during this era.
However, the pacing occasionally falters in the middle sections, where dense historical exposition momentarily overshadows character development. While Higginbotham’s attention to detail is commendable (e.g., period-accurate dialogue), some scenes—particularly those involving lesser-known historical figures—could benefit from sharper emotional clarity to deepen reader engagement.
Reader Reactions & Emotional Impact
As someone drawn to unsung heroines, I was electrified by Ernestine’s fiery independence and moral courage. The scene where she delivers her first public speech—defying hecklers who brand her an atheist Jezebel—left me breathless with admiration. Higginbotham’s prose captures the visceral stakes of Ernestine’s activism; I felt the weight of her loneliness as a Jewish immigrant challenging both religious and gender orthodoxies. Yet, I occasionally wished for more introspection from Ernestine herself—her internal struggles (e.g., reconciling her atheism with her Jewish heritage) are hinted at but not fully plumbed.
Reading this during a summer of renewed debates about women’s rights, I found Ernestine’s battles eerily resonant. The Kindle edition’s lack of visual aids (e.g., maps or timelines) was a missed opportunity to anchor her transatlantic journey.
Constructive Criticism
-Pacing & Focus: Streamline mid-book historical tangents to maintain emotional momentum.
-Character Interiority: Deepen Ernestine’s introspective moments to humanize her iconoclasm.
-Supporting Cast: Sharpen distinctions between activist peers (e.g., Douglass vs. Stanton) to avoid homogenization.
-Visual Storytelling: Include supplementary materials (e.g., speeches or letters) in future editions.
How I would describe this book:
- Higginbotham resurrects a feminist titan—part Ruth Bader Ginsburg, part Voltaire—in this dazzling reclamation of history
- A Hidden Figures for the women’s rights movement: Ernestine Rose’s fight will leave you awestruck
- For fans of The Book of Longings and The Women—but with more atheist firebrands and fewer apologies
- Ernestine’s battle against slavery, sexism, and scripture is the revolution we still need today
Personal Remarks
I devoured this book over a few sleepless nights, my highlighter running dry as I marked Ernestine’s speeches (Accept nothing blindly!). The moment she tore up her marriage contract felt like watching someone rip open a cage—I cheered aloud, startling my cats. Yet, I closed the book yearning for a deeper glimpse into her marriage with William Rose, a relationship that could have added rich emotional layers.
Gratitude
Thank you to Onslow Press and Goodreads Giveaways for the review copy. A print edition with archival images of Ernestine’s speeches would be a treasure.
Final Verdict
4.5/5—A vital, stirring tribute to a woman who refused to be silenced. Higginbotham’s prose is both scalpel and spotlight, excising historical neglect to illuminate a legacy that demands remembrance. Ideal for book clubs and classrooms alike.
Rating: 4.5/5
Analysis & Thematic Depth
Susan Higginbotham’s The Queen of the Platform is a meticulously researched and vividly rendered portrait of Ernestine Rose, a trailblazing 19th-century feminist, abolitionist, and freethinker whose legacy has often been overshadowed by her contemporaries like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Higginbotham’s strength lies in her ability to balance historical fidelity with narrative momentum, immersing readers in Ernestine’s world—from the turmoil of Napoleonic Poland to the fervor of abolitionist New York. The novel’s exploration of Ernestine’s atheism and rejection of patriarchal norms (e.g., refusing an arranged marriage) is particularly bold, challenging romanticized notions of women’s activism during this era.
However, the pacing occasionally falters in the middle sections, where dense historical exposition momentarily overshadows character development. While Higginbotham’s attention to detail is commendable (e.g., period-accurate dialogue), some scenes—particularly those involving lesser-known historical figures—could benefit from sharper emotional clarity to deepen reader engagement.
Reader Reactions & Emotional Impact
As someone drawn to unsung heroines, I was electrified by Ernestine’s fiery independence and moral courage. The scene where she delivers her first public speech—defying hecklers who brand her an atheist Jezebel—left me breathless with admiration. Higginbotham’s prose captures the visceral stakes of Ernestine’s activism; I felt the weight of her loneliness as a Jewish immigrant challenging both religious and gender orthodoxies. Yet, I occasionally wished for more introspection from Ernestine herself—her internal struggles (e.g., reconciling her atheism with her Jewish heritage) are hinted at but not fully plumbed.
Reading this during a summer of renewed debates about women’s rights, I found Ernestine’s battles eerily resonant. The Kindle edition’s lack of visual aids (e.g., maps or timelines) was a missed opportunity to anchor her transatlantic journey.
Constructive Criticism
-Pacing & Focus: Streamline mid-book historical tangents to maintain emotional momentum.
-Character Interiority: Deepen Ernestine’s introspective moments to humanize her iconoclasm.
-Supporting Cast: Sharpen distinctions between activist peers (e.g., Douglass vs. Stanton) to avoid homogenization.
-Visual Storytelling: Include supplementary materials (e.g., speeches or letters) in future editions.
How I would describe this book:
- Higginbotham resurrects a feminist titan—part Ruth Bader Ginsburg, part Voltaire—in this dazzling reclamation of history
- A Hidden Figures for the women’s rights movement: Ernestine Rose’s fight will leave you awestruck
- For fans of The Book of Longings and The Women—but with more atheist firebrands and fewer apologies
- Ernestine’s battle against slavery, sexism, and scripture is the revolution we still need today
Personal Remarks
I devoured this book over a few sleepless nights, my highlighter running dry as I marked Ernestine’s speeches (Accept nothing blindly!). The moment she tore up her marriage contract felt like watching someone rip open a cage—I cheered aloud, startling my cats. Yet, I closed the book yearning for a deeper glimpse into her marriage with William Rose, a relationship that could have added rich emotional layers.
Gratitude
Thank you to Onslow Press and Goodreads Giveaways for the review copy. A print edition with archival images of Ernestine’s speeches would be a treasure.
Final Verdict
4.5/5—A vital, stirring tribute to a woman who refused to be silenced. Higginbotham’s prose is both scalpel and spotlight, excising historical neglect to illuminate a legacy that demands remembrance. Ideal for book clubs and classrooms alike.
February 8, 2024
I received an advanced copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story is about the life of Ernestine Zussmund, during the 1800s. She was born in Poland to a rabbi who arranged a marriage. As a young girl she questioned everything and left her family. She want someone she picked and denounced her religion.
However, she couldn't accept that women are only aloud to be a wife and have children. It was such an injustice why arent women given the same equality as man.
Thus she sets off in the USA stepping up on platforms and speaking of women's rights and against slavery. This was not an easy task as she struggled to be heard. She had an accent and was a woman. But, she persisted and found her voice and people listened to what she said..
It was an interesting read she met others who were speaking out like Fredrick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony.
The author did an amazing job researching everything she could find on Ernestine Zussmund. If you want to read about the struggle for women's rights this is a book I recommend.
The story is about the life of Ernestine Zussmund, during the 1800s. She was born in Poland to a rabbi who arranged a marriage. As a young girl she questioned everything and left her family. She want someone she picked and denounced her religion.
However, she couldn't accept that women are only aloud to be a wife and have children. It was such an injustice why arent women given the same equality as man.
Thus she sets off in the USA stepping up on platforms and speaking of women's rights and against slavery. This was not an easy task as she struggled to be heard. She had an accent and was a woman. But, she persisted and found her voice and people listened to what she said..
It was an interesting read she met others who were speaking out like Fredrick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony.
The author did an amazing job researching everything she could find on Ernestine Zussmund. If you want to read about the struggle for women's rights this is a book I recommend.
February 5, 2024
Susan Higginbotham’s presentation of the Ernestine Rose story begins when the central character is 7 years old and progresses quickly through her formative years and into early adulthood. The challenges Ernestine faces and the choices she makes highlight character traits that became ingrained in her as a free-thinker, abolitionist, and suffragist who earned recognition as the Queen of the Platform. As Ernestine’s journey unfolds, we experience the struggle for rights of woman – setbacks and triumphs – through her lens.
Higginbotham has crafted an engaging and realistic recreation of the sacrifices made and that continue to be made in pursuit of justice that should always have been. Details of the period are deftly woven into the fabric of her storytelling, so as to create a sense of being “in the moment” without becoming a distraction. Many of those moments will remain embedded in my consciousness as the fight for right continues.
Higginbotham has crafted an engaging and realistic recreation of the sacrifices made and that continue to be made in pursuit of justice that should always have been. Details of the period are deftly woven into the fabric of her storytelling, so as to create a sense of being “in the moment” without becoming a distraction. Many of those moments will remain embedded in my consciousness as the fight for right continues.
May 2, 2024
The Queen of the Platform is a novel detailing Ernestine Rose’s life. She was one of the leading proponents of women’s rights and suffrage in the U.S. and elsewhere in the 1800s. It is told first person by Ernestine, who was a tireless speaker and leader on behalf of women. I had seen her name when doing my own research on the suffrage movement, but knew little about her. It is a well written novel, and I found the first half of the book very interesting. However the second half of the book dragged a little as it covered too many of the individual meetings at which she spoke, quoting her messages on women’s rights. She was a courageous person who faced criticisms and prejudice for being from Poland and of Jewish birth. I enjoyed learning about her.
June 3, 2025
What an interesting story of women's history and the background of how the women finally got the right to vote. A fascinating book on the life of Ernestine Rose and the values she held dear. While we hear of Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton during this period, the book brings to life the hardships and highlights of how one women shared her quest to bring women and others their rights. I found it interesting that when people would give speeches to broadcast their news in the late 1800's, it was called the "platform", thus the title of the book. Ernestine fled Poland and became an American citizen, always striving for a better life for her and her family. I highly recommend this book for those readers who love history and want to know more.
January 27, 2024
My third novel by the author, and I definitely want to read more of her work! Giving literally a strong voice to Ernestine in her fight for women's rights, the author has written a convincing story of Ernestine's life. The novel is written in the first person, which I thought was rather clever: I had the feeling I could hear her talk, and she felt real. I learned a lot, and was rather impressed with the whole organisation (such long journeys!) as well as development of the movement. As usual , the author did an enormous and meticulous research in Ernestine's life historical background. A great, informative and impressive novel! Highly recommended.
I received a digital copy of this novel from BookSirens and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from BookSirens and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
March 5, 2024
An interesting story of a comparatively unknown woman, Ernestine Rose, who campaigned for womens rights. Starting as a young girl querying why she could not do things her brother was allowed to do,her fight to right this injustice gets stronger as she gets older. Most of her story takes place in the U.S.A. The many people she meets and associates with include ardent supporters of womens rights and many well known historical figures of the time . A map of the districts she visited and spoke in would have been a help.
October 1, 2024
Ernestine Rose is a woman who speaks foe the cause of women. She is an immigrant to the US whose history is interesting, going to court to defend her inheritance from her mother being taken by her first suitor and then moved to Paris and on to England. Finally having married for love she goes to New York with her husband a jeweller. She grows into speaking.
I found this book fascinating in seeing the movements for emancipation and for women's suffrage.
I found this book fascinating in seeing the movements for emancipation and for women's suffrage.
February 14, 2024
Thank you to Susan Higginbotham for introducing me to an important woman, abolitionist and suffragette. I felt like I could have known her in real life. She had more courage in her little finger than most people today. And thank you to Ernestine Rose for paving the way for any rights we enjoy today.
I received an ARC from netgalley.
I received an ARC from netgalley.
August 9, 2025
I received the kindle version of The Queen of the Platform by Susan Higginbotham as a Goodreads giveaway.
This historical fiction telling of Ernestine Rose's life in the 1800's was fascinating. Leaving war torn Poland, she arrived in the U.S. in the 1830's and began speaking out for Women's rights and against slavery, alongside Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglas.
This historical fiction telling of Ernestine Rose's life in the 1800's was fascinating. Leaving war torn Poland, she arrived in the U.S. in the 1830's and began speaking out for Women's rights and against slavery, alongside Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglas.
June 6, 2024
We are proud to announce that THE QUEEN OF THE PLATFORM: A Novel of Women's Rights Activist Ernestine Rose by Susan Higginbotham has been honored with the B.R.A.G. Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG.
September 30, 2024
Ernestine's story reminds readers of the long, hard battle fought by women like her, to attain the rights that women take for granted today.
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