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A Founding Mother
In time for the 250th Anniversary of the birth of the United States comes a sweeping, intimate portrayal of Abigail Adams—wife of one president and mother to another—whose wit, willpower and wisdom helped shape the fledgling republic. A stunning historical novel with modern-day implications from the New York Times bestselling authors of America’s First Daughter and My Dear Hamilton.
In the heart of revolutionary Boston, Abigail Adams raises her children amid riots, blockades, and the outbreak of war. While her husband, John Adams, rises from country lawyer to nation-builder, often away for years at a time, Abigail builds her own independence—managing their farm, making lucrative investments, amassing savings, battling plague and loss, and defending their home. Unafraid to speak her mind, she famously offers fearless political counsel, urging John to “remember the ladies” in the new government. Through it all, she becomes his most trusted confidante and indispensable ally.
When peace is secured, Abigail steps onto the world stage—exchanging ideas with Thomas Jefferson in the French countryside, navigating court life as the wife of the Minister to Great Britain, and presiding over the parlor politics of the early American republic in New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. Even after her husband’s presidential administration, she continues battling political foes and working behind the scenes to advance her family, secure independence for the women in her life, and ensure a better life for the next generation of Americans.
From war-torn streets to the chandeliered halls of power, A Founding Mother is the unforgettable story of a woman ahead of her time—one whose voice, vision, and valor still resonate powerfully today.
In the heart of revolutionary Boston, Abigail Adams raises her children amid riots, blockades, and the outbreak of war. While her husband, John Adams, rises from country lawyer to nation-builder, often away for years at a time, Abigail builds her own independence—managing their farm, making lucrative investments, amassing savings, battling plague and loss, and defending their home. Unafraid to speak her mind, she famously offers fearless political counsel, urging John to “remember the ladies” in the new government. Through it all, she becomes his most trusted confidante and indispensable ally.
When peace is secured, Abigail steps onto the world stage—exchanging ideas with Thomas Jefferson in the French countryside, navigating court life as the wife of the Minister to Great Britain, and presiding over the parlor politics of the early American republic in New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. Even after her husband’s presidential administration, she continues battling political foes and working behind the scenes to advance her family, secure independence for the women in her life, and ensure a better life for the next generation of Americans.
From war-torn streets to the chandeliered halls of power, A Founding Mother is the unforgettable story of a woman ahead of her time—one whose voice, vision, and valor still resonate powerfully today.
463 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2026
About the author
Stephanie Dray
19 books5,066 followersSTEPHANIE DRAY is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal & USA Today bestselling author of historical women’s fiction. Her award-winning work has been translated into eight languages and tops lists for the most anticipated reads of the year. She lives with her husband, cats, and history books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 635 reviews
July 1, 2026
July 2026 Reese pick! I am SO THRILLED for my friends!
Read this one for a cover quote, which I gave happily because I LOVED it. Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie are back with another tale of America's founding mothers, this the most famous of all: Abigail Adams herself. America's most famous first lady shines from every page, spiky, clever, and admirable whether holding her family together during the Revolution, presiding over the White House during her husband's presidency, or wondering if it was all for nought as she watches her nation's capital burn. The research shines, the prose gleams, the characterization is a delight, and the themes are timelier than ever--I can think of no book more necessary, as the eve of our nation's 250th anniversary dawns, than A FOUNDING MOTHER.
Read this one for a cover quote, which I gave happily because I LOVED it. Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie are back with another tale of America's founding mothers, this the most famous of all: Abigail Adams herself. America's most famous first lady shines from every page, spiky, clever, and admirable whether holding her family together during the Revolution, presiding over the White House during her husband's presidency, or wondering if it was all for nought as she watches her nation's capital burn. The research shines, the prose gleams, the characterization is a delight, and the themes are timelier than ever--I can think of no book more necessary, as the eve of our nation's 250th anniversary dawns, than A FOUNDING MOTHER.
July 15, 2026
I truly enjoyed being immersed in the life of Abigail Adams, experiencing her sorrow, worries, joy, pride, love, friendship, and female empowerment. The authors' notes were interesting and informative, and are greatly appreciated. Cassandra Campbell does a fabulous job bringing the characters to life.
May 11, 2026
A Founding Mother by Stephanie Dray, Laura Kamoie
Fictionalization of the life of Abigail Adams.
History brought to life by two authors that have proven themselves with their prior stories.
The life of Abigail Adams, her husband, her children and extended family and their impact in history and events.
The audiobook is told from Abigail’s perspective. We follow her from just prior to her marriage at 16 until her 70’s and the legacy she left behind.
I found myself actively looking up a few of the facts I’m sure I learned in school at some point. This story made the facts more intriguing. Clearly a strong woman and someone to remember.
Interesting and impactful.
Fictionalization of the life of Abigail Adams.
History brought to life by two authors that have proven themselves with their prior stories.
The life of Abigail Adams, her husband, her children and extended family and their impact in history and events.
The audiobook is told from Abigail’s perspective. We follow her from just prior to her marriage at 16 until her 70’s and the legacy she left behind.
I found myself actively looking up a few of the facts I’m sure I learned in school at some point. This story made the facts more intriguing. Clearly a strong woman and someone to remember.
Interesting and impactful.
Want to Read
December 6, 2025A book on Abigail Adams from my fav historical fiction author duo?! So excited!
May 24, 2026
This is definitely one of my favorite books of 2026. I enjoy about 500 books per year to put that into perspective. This was the story of Abigail Adams, wife of President John Adams. This story takes the reader through many, many years. I had no idea what Mrs. Adams endured and what a strong, courageous woman she was. I also learned quite a bit about America, prior to, during and after the Revolutionary War. She is a wonderful role model. This was also my first book by Stephanie Dray, I plan to read all I can access by her. Outstanding narration. Highly recommend!
I was blessed with an ALC and ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased. I plan to purchase this book as I plan to reread it several times!
I was blessed with an ALC and ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased. I plan to purchase this book as I plan to reread it several times!
May 4, 2026
Thank you, NetGalley, for granting me a free digital copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Remembered for her keen intellect, proud patriotism, and strong partnership with her husband, Abigail Adams has long been heralded as both a champion of women’s rights and one of the few starring women of the American Revolution. A Founding Mother reinforces many of the things we’ve traditionally admired about Abigail, while exposing the harsh realities and contradictions of Abigail’s world. A staunch abolitionist, Abigail was nevertheless born into a family of enslavers.* She and John had a deep bond built on love and a shared intellect, yet she still often found herself overruled by him, forced to stifle her own feelings in favor of her prickly husband’s. Together, they labored all their adult lives to build and nurture a new nation, yet in doing so, had to sacrifice their own happiness and comfort, and often those of their children too.
Dray and Kamoie do an excellent job of balancing the many prominent themes within this story: feminism and the disenfranchisement of women, the highs and lows of married life, raising and losing children, labor and finances, war and peace, and the treacherous world of politics. It can be easy to forget just how hard life was in early America, and through Abigail, we witness the many struggles and humiliations women were subjected to prior to gaining any kind of legal freedom. Abigail quarrels with John and struggles to keep their family afloat during the years he is overseas serving as a diplomat, yet her life is a picnic compared to the other women we meet whose husbands beat them, abandon them, publicly betray them (looking at you, Hamilton), and get lost in the bottle. Alcoholism was a major vice in the Adams family, and reading about it serves as a wake-up call for all the people today who complain that our culture has become too sober. In fact, A Founding Mother presents rebuttals to many modern complaints without even trying—firstly that the glorified past wasn’t all that glorious, but also that, yes, we really have made tremendous progress since then.
In keeping with the trajectory of the real Adamses’ lives, the pair have soured considerably on many of the other Founding Fathers by the time they reach retirement. The Washingtons are highly respected right up until the very end, but by the final third of A Founding Mother, the Adamses have fallen out hard with Hamilton and Jefferson (Abigail died before Adams and Jefferson reconciled). Given the enormous egos of these brilliant men, it was perhaps unavoidable that they would all end up locking horns eventually. I suspect there are plenty of Easter eggs for those who have read the authors’ earlier books on Eliza Hamilton and Patsy Jefferson, which I plan on getting around to at some point myself, albeit with some trepidation (like many Americans, I am both fascinated by Thomas Jefferson’s relationship with Sally Hemings yet found myself cringing in on myself every time her name was mentioned). Other Founders were mentioned in passing, among them Benjamin Franklin, Henry Knox, and John Jay. (If you’re reading this, Dray and Kamoie, I’d like to suggest Sarah Jay as the protagonist of a future installment. She and John Jay left behind plenty of sappy love letters to reference, their sons were big in the abolitionist movement, and Sarah also left records of several amusing run-ins with Ben Franklin.)
If I had one complaint it would be that, despite the length of this book, so much was squeezed in that certain areas didn’t feel like they received the level of exploration they deserved, namely the war years and Abigail’s time as First Lady. But I enjoyed learning about the Adamses as people, and especially appreciated the way their children were brought to life, along with the complicated relationships they had with their parents. All in all, this was an excellent listen, and a fitting story for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
*There’s a lot of new terminology we’re expected to use now regarding slavery. Unfortunately, this becomes a bit anachronistic when Abigail, an 18th century woman, refers to slaves as “the enslaved” instead.
Remembered for her keen intellect, proud patriotism, and strong partnership with her husband, Abigail Adams has long been heralded as both a champion of women’s rights and one of the few starring women of the American Revolution. A Founding Mother reinforces many of the things we’ve traditionally admired about Abigail, while exposing the harsh realities and contradictions of Abigail’s world. A staunch abolitionist, Abigail was nevertheless born into a family of enslavers.* She and John had a deep bond built on love and a shared intellect, yet she still often found herself overruled by him, forced to stifle her own feelings in favor of her prickly husband’s. Together, they labored all their adult lives to build and nurture a new nation, yet in doing so, had to sacrifice their own happiness and comfort, and often those of their children too.
Dray and Kamoie do an excellent job of balancing the many prominent themes within this story: feminism and the disenfranchisement of women, the highs and lows of married life, raising and losing children, labor and finances, war and peace, and the treacherous world of politics. It can be easy to forget just how hard life was in early America, and through Abigail, we witness the many struggles and humiliations women were subjected to prior to gaining any kind of legal freedom. Abigail quarrels with John and struggles to keep their family afloat during the years he is overseas serving as a diplomat, yet her life is a picnic compared to the other women we meet whose husbands beat them, abandon them, publicly betray them (looking at you, Hamilton), and get lost in the bottle. Alcoholism was a major vice in the Adams family, and reading about it serves as a wake-up call for all the people today who complain that our culture has become too sober. In fact, A Founding Mother presents rebuttals to many modern complaints without even trying—firstly that the glorified past wasn’t all that glorious, but also that, yes, we really have made tremendous progress since then.
In keeping with the trajectory of the real Adamses’ lives, the pair have soured considerably on many of the other Founding Fathers by the time they reach retirement. The Washingtons are highly respected right up until the very end, but by the final third of A Founding Mother, the Adamses have fallen out hard with Hamilton and Jefferson (Abigail died before Adams and Jefferson reconciled). Given the enormous egos of these brilliant men, it was perhaps unavoidable that they would all end up locking horns eventually. I suspect there are plenty of Easter eggs for those who have read the authors’ earlier books on Eliza Hamilton and Patsy Jefferson, which I plan on getting around to at some point myself, albeit with some trepidation (like many Americans, I am both fascinated by Thomas Jefferson’s relationship with Sally Hemings yet found myself cringing in on myself every time her name was mentioned). Other Founders were mentioned in passing, among them Benjamin Franklin, Henry Knox, and John Jay. (If you’re reading this, Dray and Kamoie, I’d like to suggest Sarah Jay as the protagonist of a future installment. She and John Jay left behind plenty of sappy love letters to reference, their sons were big in the abolitionist movement, and Sarah also left records of several amusing run-ins with Ben Franklin.)
If I had one complaint it would be that, despite the length of this book, so much was squeezed in that certain areas didn’t feel like they received the level of exploration they deserved, namely the war years and Abigail’s time as First Lady. But I enjoyed learning about the Adamses as people, and especially appreciated the way their children were brought to life, along with the complicated relationships they had with their parents. All in all, this was an excellent listen, and a fitting story for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
*There’s a lot of new terminology we’re expected to use now regarding slavery. Unfortunately, this becomes a bit anachronistic when Abigail, an 18th century woman, refers to slaves as “the enslaved” instead.
June 12, 2026
‘Can it be that providence has saved the United States’? John is thoughtful. ‘No, we may make ourselves popular by boasting that Americans are the chosen people. Exceptional by nature and worthy of Gods special notice, but it will be flattery and delusion. If this Republic survives, it will always be because we saved it ourselves’. ― Stephanie Dray, A Founding Mother
Story: 5
Audio: 5
Narrator: Cassandra Campbell
Available: NetGalley
Listen at 1.4 speed
Loved it! How appropriate that this book is being published the year of our great country’s 250th anniversary. A must read for fans of American historical fiction.
Audio was so perfectly performed that I high recommend this format. Brings Abigail’s voice to resounding life.
***ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Story: 5
Audio: 5
Narrator: Cassandra Campbell
Available: NetGalley
Listen at 1.4 speed
Loved it! How appropriate that this book is being published the year of our great country’s 250th anniversary. A must read for fans of American historical fiction.
Audio was so perfectly performed that I high recommend this format. Brings Abigail’s voice to resounding life.
***ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2026
From a historical lesson viewpoint, this read gets 5 stars. I am not sure I have ever learned so much about history from fictional pages. I was constantly putting it down to do my own research to answer, "Did that really happen!?" The issue was that it read like an autobiography, and there was very little character development. I almost gave up on it twice - around page 80 and then again around 150. I am not afraid of a long, meaty book, but this one was like reading a documentary, and I could only handle it in small doses. I usually blow through books in a day or two, and this one took me a few weeks because I had to pace myself and then gear myself up to get back into it.
In the end, I am thankful that I didn't give up on it and that I saw it through. I knew next to nothing about the Adams family, and their story was deeply inspiring. I have a new appreciation for all of the founding men and women who sacrificed greatly for the freedom we live in today. My family is a lover of the Broadway show Hamilton, so it was really neat to see some of our favorite people come to life from a different lens.
I would recommend this read - just know that you are committing to a biographical history book with nearly no fluff or filler. If you love history and you want to be inspired, it is worth the read.
In the end, I am thankful that I didn't give up on it and that I saw it through. I knew next to nothing about the Adams family, and their story was deeply inspiring. I have a new appreciation for all of the founding men and women who sacrificed greatly for the freedom we live in today. My family is a lover of the Broadway show Hamilton, so it was really neat to see some of our favorite people come to life from a different lens.
I would recommend this read - just know that you are committing to a biographical history book with nearly no fluff or filler. If you love history and you want to be inspired, it is worth the read.
Want to Read
January 6, 20262026 is going to be a phenomenal year for new books!
July 5, 2026
Trigger Warnings:
* War
* Death
* Child loss
* Illness
* Political conflict
* Sexism
* Slavery
A Founding Mother by Stephanie Dray is set during the years surrounding the American Revolution and the founding of the United States, this historical fiction novel follows Martha Washington as she steps out of the shadows of history and into the spotlight. From managing Mount Vernon and raising a family to enduring the hardships of war alongside her husband, George Washington, Martha’s strength, sacrifices, and influence are woven throughout the birth of a new nation. The novel offers a richly detailed look at the personal cost of leadership while bringing one of America’s most important women to life through an intimate and engaging narrative.
* War
* Death
* Child loss
* Illness
* Political conflict
* Sexism
* Slavery
A Founding Mother by Stephanie Dray is set during the years surrounding the American Revolution and the founding of the United States, this historical fiction novel follows Martha Washington as she steps out of the shadows of history and into the spotlight. From managing Mount Vernon and raising a family to enduring the hardships of war alongside her husband, George Washington, Martha’s strength, sacrifices, and influence are woven throughout the birth of a new nation. The novel offers a richly detailed look at the personal cost of leadership while bringing one of America’s most important women to life through an intimate and engaging narrative.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A STORY OF A STRONG WOMAN AHEAD OF HER TIME
SUMMARY
Abigail Adams was the second First Lady of the United States. Before that, she and her husband, John, a country lawyer, lived in a rustic saltbox farmhouse outside of Boston. She lovingly raised her four children—Nabby, John Quincy, Charlie, and Tommy—during a tumultuous time of revolution, riots, and war. As her husband devoted himself to serving the country, often away for months or even years, Abigail embraced independence and took charge of their home. She managed the farm, faced challenges such as devastating illness, and found creative ways to earn the much-needed money for her family. Abigail was never afraid to speak her mind to her husband and kindly reminded him to “remember the ladies” while helping craft the foundational documents of a new nation.
REVIEW
A FOUNDING MOTHER is a delightfully informative and entertaining novel about the early days of our country. And it’s just time to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of our country. This book offers a glimpse into the politics of the times from Abigail’s perspective and in her role as the President’s Lady.
Authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie are well known for co-writing award-winning women’s historical fiction, including America’s First Daughter and My Dear Hamilton. They are born storytellers. The writing is stellar, and the pacing keeps your interest.
To me, reading historical fiction about real people is a little scary because it all feels so real, and I typically don’t know which parts are true and which aren’t. In this book, there were several things I thought could not possibly be true, but they really happened. One of my favorite parts of Dray and Kamoie’s books is that they tell us what is real and what’s not, and which things they had to change and why in their Author’s Notes. The Author Notes are must-reads for all of their books!
A FOUNDING MOTHER is a timely and thought-provoking story about a woman full of fortitude and strength, who was very much ahead of her time. Thank you to Netgalley and William Morrow for an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Publisher William Morrow
Published. May 5. 2026
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
SUMMARY
Abigail Adams was the second First Lady of the United States. Before that, she and her husband, John, a country lawyer, lived in a rustic saltbox farmhouse outside of Boston. She lovingly raised her four children—Nabby, John Quincy, Charlie, and Tommy—during a tumultuous time of revolution, riots, and war. As her husband devoted himself to serving the country, often away for months or even years, Abigail embraced independence and took charge of their home. She managed the farm, faced challenges such as devastating illness, and found creative ways to earn the much-needed money for her family. Abigail was never afraid to speak her mind to her husband and kindly reminded him to “remember the ladies” while helping craft the foundational documents of a new nation.
REVIEW
A FOUNDING MOTHER is a delightfully informative and entertaining novel about the early days of our country. And it’s just time to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of our country. This book offers a glimpse into the politics of the times from Abigail’s perspective and in her role as the President’s Lady.
Authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie are well known for co-writing award-winning women’s historical fiction, including America’s First Daughter and My Dear Hamilton. They are born storytellers. The writing is stellar, and the pacing keeps your interest.
To me, reading historical fiction about real people is a little scary because it all feels so real, and I typically don’t know which parts are true and which aren’t. In this book, there were several things I thought could not possibly be true, but they really happened. One of my favorite parts of Dray and Kamoie’s books is that they tell us what is real and what’s not, and which things they had to change and why in their Author’s Notes. The Author Notes are must-reads for all of their books!
A FOUNDING MOTHER is a timely and thought-provoking story about a woman full of fortitude and strength, who was very much ahead of her time. Thank you to Netgalley and William Morrow for an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Publisher William Morrow
Published. May 5. 2026
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
July 15, 2026
I have loved and I mean five star loved, all the three books I have read by this author. Unfortunately, not so much this one. I was a tad turned of by the inaccuracies I spotted while reading, particularly the section of Abigail and John's letters while he was overseas.
I do know that fiction has taken over the bulk of historical fiction novels these days, but I think that some things that are made up are simply too tough for me to swallow. I also know it seems to be somewhat in vogue to trash our founding fathers, who were all human, not gods and did have some very faulty behavior.
At any rate Abigail was quite the lady a wonderful woman who stood behind her man as so many others have done.
I do know that fiction has taken over the bulk of historical fiction novels these days, but I think that some things that are made up are simply too tough for me to swallow. I also know it seems to be somewhat in vogue to trash our founding fathers, who were all human, not gods and did have some very faulty behavior.
At any rate Abigail was quite the lady a wonderful woman who stood behind her man as so many others have done.
June 18, 2026
This story captures the quiet strength of a woman who refused to be small in a world built to contain her. A beautifully crafted tribute to the mind and spirit of Abigail Adams.
May 7, 2026
(I received a complimentary copy of this title through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
The Revolutionary War Era is my favorite time period of history to read about, and I was thrilled to see this book coming out in 2026. I’ve read and enjoyed other books by these authors, so I was hopeful that I’d enjoy this one too. It did not disappoint! Abigail Adams is such a fascinating historical figure, and I loved reading her fictionalized story.
One can tell in reading this book how much research these authors did prior to writing, as there is great attention to detail and historical accuracy where possible. I always really appreciate that! The Author’s Notes at the end of this story are an absolute must-read!
This story takes place early on as the scene is being set for the Revolution and follows the Adams family through John Adam’s presidency. I love reading about Abigail Adams and other women like her. I just love learning more about these women who kept their faith and served passionately through extremely difficult circumstances. As a mil spouse, I find Abigail Adams especially amazing for all of the years she served back at home alone while her husband served his country. She was such an amazing lady, and I feel that this story is a wonderful tribute to her.
If you are looking for a historical fiction set during the Revolutionary War to read in honor of the USA’s 250th this year, this is the book for you!
Content considerations: For anyone wondering if this book has spice, the answer is: nope! There are some fade-to-black scenes between married couples but that’s all. Additionally, I would like to mention that there may be some content warnings some readers would like to be aware of. For example, the Adams family loses multiple babies and children, and these events are included in the story. As always, feel free to ask further questions if you have them! Send me a DM over on IG (@emilylovesreading_) with any inquiries.
Informative and entertaining.
I would highly recommend A Founding Mother!
May 23, 2026
I really wanted to like this book more than I did because I thought "Becoming Madam Secretary" was a brilliant book. But any book that has me wanting it to end is never going to merit a 4 or 5 star rating. Let's be clear: this book is extremely well-written and researched. My gripe is that because the book is so comprehensive and encompassing of decades of Abigail Adams's life it felt like important parts of history did not receive enough page dedication. I read an entire book by Dan Abrams about John Adams that focused on the Boston Massacre; this book covered it in a handful of pages. I understand that was a strategic decision because the book is already so long that adding more might discourage readers from partaking in a tome. However, in doing so, it felt incomplete (which is saying a lot for a book of this length). I get that I'm in the minority here and that's okay because Abigail Adams made it clear that there's nothing wrong with standing by unpopular opinions.
July 2, 2026
3.75⭐️
July 8, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️
What a timely read, in so many ways. Set in the late 1700s, it is the story of the John and Abigail Adams family, from Abigail’s perspective. A story of one of the strongest women of her time. It is thoroughly researched and beautifully written. A book I won’t soon forget. ‘Never did our country appear more beautiful than amidst this catastrophe.’ John Adams was considered by many to be a legalistic patriot voice. A man who was devoted to the cause of freedom, even when it took him from his family for years at a time. And not without some personal cost. “Liberty cannot be preserved without general knowledge among the people.” — John Adams Highlights | ❤️Importance of mothers 🇺🇸Loss and grief ❤️Love of books — Abigail 🇺🇸Anti-slavery ❤️Perspective of a woman 🇺🇸Equality for women ❤️Sacrifice Abigail is portrayed as spunky and very devoted to her family and country. She loved her husband and children to a fault. She went through many sad and heartbreaking times in her life. ‘All that I am is what you have made me.’— John Quincy Adams to his mother Abigail
(I do not know if this is a direct quote, but it is said that they had a very close relationship and I love it all the same.) One of the things I enjoyed most was the sense I felt of what it was like to live during this era. The hardships and courage displayed by so many that paved the way for the freedom we enjoy today. I learned some new things I didn’t fully realize. And the way these events are still very relatable today is remarkable. I would highly recommend this book! ✨The authors note is especially helpful for clarifications between fact and fiction. And although it is a lengthy book, it’s cohesive and interesting. The authors carefully made difficult decisions on what to include and what to leave out.
What a timely read, in so many ways. Set in the late 1700s, it is the story of the John and Abigail Adams family, from Abigail’s perspective. A story of one of the strongest women of her time. It is thoroughly researched and beautifully written. A book I won’t soon forget. ‘Never did our country appear more beautiful than amidst this catastrophe.’ John Adams was considered by many to be a legalistic patriot voice. A man who was devoted to the cause of freedom, even when it took him from his family for years at a time. And not without some personal cost. “Liberty cannot be preserved without general knowledge among the people.” — John Adams Highlights | ❤️Importance of mothers 🇺🇸Loss and grief ❤️Love of books — Abigail 🇺🇸Anti-slavery ❤️Perspective of a woman 🇺🇸Equality for women ❤️Sacrifice Abigail is portrayed as spunky and very devoted to her family and country. She loved her husband and children to a fault. She went through many sad and heartbreaking times in her life. ‘All that I am is what you have made me.’— John Quincy Adams to his mother Abigail
(I do not know if this is a direct quote, but it is said that they had a very close relationship and I love it all the same.) One of the things I enjoyed most was the sense I felt of what it was like to live during this era. The hardships and courage displayed by so many that paved the way for the freedom we enjoy today. I learned some new things I didn’t fully realize. And the way these events are still very relatable today is remarkable. I would highly recommend this book! ✨The authors note is especially helpful for clarifications between fact and fiction. And although it is a lengthy book, it’s cohesive and interesting. The authors carefully made difficult decisions on what to include and what to leave out.
July 9, 2026
The perfect book for America 250. 🇺🇸 One of my favorite historical couples, having read a book of their letters many years ago, I'm glad they got their own book. (However, be it historical fiction)
Did Not Finish
July 12, 2026Soft DNF at this time. I so wanted to love this. Quite off putting the liberties the authors took with the communication between John and Abby. Theirs was a true love match and I feel those liberties belittled their relationship. Abby was a true helpmate in all ways to John.
I understand authors adding their own spin to “their” story but I did not like that in this.
I understand authors adding their own spin to “their” story but I did not like that in this.
June 29, 2026
I loved every minute of this book!
April 29, 2026
This is my most anticipated book of the year, and it did not disappoint! Stephanie and Laura always write the most impeccably researched novels about real people. Their latest about the indomitable Abigail Adams is a masterpiece of rich historical details, snappy dialogue, and beautiful descriptions of 18th century America and Europe. Abigail is one of my favorite first ladies as she had a sharp tongue, keen intellect, and political mind like no other. Americans should be grateful for her wise counsel to John Adams and other political leaders even if they didn’t listen to her all of the time (and lived to regret it!).
Stephanie and Laura immerse the reader in colonial America from the smells of the Boston streets to the bucolic countryside surrounding the Adams farm. The descriptions of the American Revolution battles taking place just miles from the Adams homestead are pulse-pounding. I especially loved the time the Adamses spent in Europe, and their writing about meeting Queen Charlotte and the Lafayettes was so fascinating.
Biographical historical fiction novels are some of my favorites as you learn so much about a real person and events in history. And as the saying goes, truth IS stranger than fiction. I highly recommend A Founding Mother to all readers, especially during this celebration of America’s 250th birthday. It’s the perfect time to read about this founding mother who is finally getting her due!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC.
Stephanie and Laura immerse the reader in colonial America from the smells of the Boston streets to the bucolic countryside surrounding the Adams farm. The descriptions of the American Revolution battles taking place just miles from the Adams homestead are pulse-pounding. I especially loved the time the Adamses spent in Europe, and their writing about meeting Queen Charlotte and the Lafayettes was so fascinating.
Biographical historical fiction novels are some of my favorites as you learn so much about a real person and events in history. And as the saying goes, truth IS stranger than fiction. I highly recommend A Founding Mother to all readers, especially during this celebration of America’s 250th birthday. It’s the perfect time to read about this founding mother who is finally getting her due!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC.
July 15, 2026
3.75 stars rounded up to 4.
Audiobook narrated by Cassandra Campbell 17hrs 20 minutes
Abigail Adams. The wife of John Adams, the third president of the United States. The mother of John Quincy Adams, the sixth president of the United States. Who was the president's lady?
Daughter. Wife. Mother. Abolitionist. Feminist.
That is the woman historical fiction authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie want us to meet. Let me say, I thoroughly enjoyed "getting to know her." Abigail Adams cared for and loved her family and her new country very deeply. That came across quickly in the narrative and ran as a steady vein throughout the storyline. Cassandra Campbell is a favourite audiobook narrator of mine, and she helped bring to life the woman at the centre of this novel. I loved the in-depth author's note about what was true, what was implied, and where creative licence was taken. As the authors state, the craziest things in historical fiction tend to be the truest.
A highly enjoyable historical fiction just in time for the U.S's 250th birthday bash! This was my first Audiobook selection on NetGalley, and I will be checking out more.
Publication Date 05/05/26
Goodreads Review 03/06/26
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
Audiobook narrated by Cassandra Campbell 17hrs 20 minutes
Abigail Adams. The wife of John Adams, the third president of the United States. The mother of John Quincy Adams, the sixth president of the United States. Who was the president's lady?
Daughter. Wife. Mother. Abolitionist. Feminist.
That is the woman historical fiction authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie want us to meet. Let me say, I thoroughly enjoyed "getting to know her." Abigail Adams cared for and loved her family and her new country very deeply. That came across quickly in the narrative and ran as a steady vein throughout the storyline. Cassandra Campbell is a favourite audiobook narrator of mine, and she helped bring to life the woman at the centre of this novel. I loved the in-depth author's note about what was true, what was implied, and where creative licence was taken. As the authors state, the craziest things in historical fiction tend to be the truest.
A highly enjoyable historical fiction just in time for the U.S's 250th birthday bash! This was my first Audiobook selection on NetGalley, and I will be checking out more.
Publication Date 05/05/26
Goodreads Review 03/06/26
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 14, 2026
I love reading about historical women, especially those who I know nothing about. It is truly amazing to read everything that happened in Abigail's life. Truly it felt like she lived multiple lifetimes from farmer's life to former first lady. I loved the beginning when she stood up to her husband to fight for the rights of women. She is right when she said a nation is nothing without mothers and I kind of wish I saw that commitment continue throughout the book. The emotions were very raw, a lot of loss and hardship. I had no idea she started selling goods to make money while her husband was away and it is fascinating to read about what the women were doing, taking care of everything at home while the men started the country. This spanned a huge and significant chunk of history, so nothing really gets too deep and I feel like that's where I didn't full fall in love with the story. This really felt like an overview / surface level about Abigail and I did not connect with her or feel like I really got to know her throughout this book. But I did enjoy and appreciate the lovely writing and storytelling and the historical facts I learned. I think this would be perfect for non-fiction readers!
Audiobook note: this narrator did a good job telling this story and bringing emotions to so many of the tough events. In fact, I think she brought more emotion than some of the writing and definitely made me connect more than I would with just the print.
Audiobook note: this narrator did a good job telling this story and bringing emotions to so many of the tough events. In fact, I think she brought more emotion than some of the writing and definitely made me connect more than I would with just the print.
February 19, 2026
A Founding Mother: A Novel of Abigail Adams by Stephanie Dray; Laura Kamoie is an amazing historical fiction that I just truly loved.
I have read many books (but not all) written by Ms Dray, and I have loved every one of them that I have picked up, and this is no exception.
I loved learning more about this fabulous, complex, and underrated woman. It is sad to say I knew very little of her, especially compared to her husband.
The novel was well researched, intriguing, compelling, and kept me coming back for more. I really didnt want it to end. I love it when I get to learn something new while I am being thoroughly entertained. A reader cannot ask for more.
This will be by far one of my favorite books of this year. High expectations for the remaining books to come.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and William Morrow | William Morrow Paperbacks for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 5/5/2026.
I have read many books (but not all) written by Ms Dray, and I have loved every one of them that I have picked up, and this is no exception.
I loved learning more about this fabulous, complex, and underrated woman. It is sad to say I knew very little of her, especially compared to her husband.
The novel was well researched, intriguing, compelling, and kept me coming back for more. I really didnt want it to end. I love it when I get to learn something new while I am being thoroughly entertained. A reader cannot ask for more.
This will be by far one of my favorite books of this year. High expectations for the remaining books to come.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and William Morrow | William Morrow Paperbacks for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 5/5/2026.
May 16, 2026
I’m less than five minutes into the audiobook and the authors have already made a factual error. Abigail is waxing poetically about her fondness for her time in the executive mansion, giving banquets. In reality, Abigail hated the house because it wasn’t finished during her husband’s presidency. Google Abigail Adams and White House for a more accurate description of her feelings. Better yet, check out a biography of this remarkable woman.
June 4, 2026
This is the story of Abigail Adams, wife of our 2nd President John Adams, and mother to our 6th President John Quincy Adams. Her story begins as a teenager and follows her life into her 70's.
Abigail lived during one of the most turbulent times in the history of this country - The Revolutionary War and everything surrounding the founding of the nation.
She is well known for her strength, loyalty to her husband, amazing political strategy (especially at a time when women were not known for this), and caring mother. This book does a great job of expounding on each of these character traits, as well as showing how truly brutal and lonely much of her life was.
Compared to two of the authors previous books of the same time period: My Dear Hamilton and America's First Daughter, this book was a slower read for me. I think the reason was just that there wasn't scandal surrounding her life or marriage. Her family wasn't completely dysfunctional and her marriage was definitely strained for long periods, but was never unfaithful by either spouse. She was a solid, steady woman, caring for her children and her family's home, often alone for months or even years at a time, while her husband was away building this nation we call home. The chaos detailed in the lives of the other two books, kept me riveted and flying through the pages. This book was different, and honestly, it was a nice change - to read about a loving marriage, held strong through MANY trials and great loss ( the Adams' lose multiple babies and children over their marriage) vs the complete train wreck of the relationships of the other two books was a delight. Readers should probably know this going in however, because it is a big difference.
There were so many challenges and difficulties facing this who lived during this time. The danger of illness, especially among children, was tremendous. This book delves into the challenging decision of whether to vaccinate against small pox, at a time when the use of vaccination was brand new - and the outcome of the decision in the Adams family was severe. Towards the end of the book, the story of Abigail's daughter Nabby and her bout with breast cancer is particularly difficult to read.
This is a fascinating historical period to learn about and this book is a wonderful addition for anyone interested in it. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was excellent!
Thank you to the authors, publishers and NetGalley for a free copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Abigail lived during one of the most turbulent times in the history of this country - The Revolutionary War and everything surrounding the founding of the nation.
She is well known for her strength, loyalty to her husband, amazing political strategy (especially at a time when women were not known for this), and caring mother. This book does a great job of expounding on each of these character traits, as well as showing how truly brutal and lonely much of her life was.
Compared to two of the authors previous books of the same time period: My Dear Hamilton and America's First Daughter, this book was a slower read for me. I think the reason was just that there wasn't scandal surrounding her life or marriage. Her family wasn't completely dysfunctional and her marriage was definitely strained for long periods, but was never unfaithful by either spouse. She was a solid, steady woman, caring for her children and her family's home, often alone for months or even years at a time, while her husband was away building this nation we call home. The chaos detailed in the lives of the other two books, kept me riveted and flying through the pages. This book was different, and honestly, it was a nice change - to read about a loving marriage, held strong through MANY trials and great loss ( the Adams' lose multiple babies and children over their marriage) vs the complete train wreck of the relationships of the other two books was a delight. Readers should probably know this going in however, because it is a big difference.
There were so many challenges and difficulties facing this who lived during this time. The danger of illness, especially among children, was tremendous. This book delves into the challenging decision of whether to vaccinate against small pox, at a time when the use of vaccination was brand new - and the outcome of the decision in the Adams family was severe. Towards the end of the book, the story of Abigail's daughter Nabby and her bout with breast cancer is particularly difficult to read.
This is a fascinating historical period to learn about and this book is a wonderful addition for anyone interested in it. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was excellent!
Thank you to the authors, publishers and NetGalley for a free copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
July 3, 2026
Finished just in time for the 250th! An easy to read well written novel on the life of Abigail Adams. Truly a story about a mother, a wife, a sister, a farmer, a friend, a world traveler and a politician. Characters were realistic and compelling. I liked that it is heavily based off of Abigail’s correspondence throughout her life, but definitely read the authors note which explains some of the historical inaccuracies. A little slow at times, but that’s what historic fiction novels are sometimes just based on the tone and voice of the writing. But still overall I liked it!
July 4, 2026
I loved this book!!!
Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie have a gift for making historical figures feel real. Their research is mind-blowing! WOW!! Abigail Adams was brilliant, outspoken, fiercely loyal, and one of American history’s most remarkable women.
I learned a lot, felt a lot, and think this one will stay with me for a long time.
Another five-star read from Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie.
Remember the ladies!
Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie have a gift for making historical figures feel real. Their research is mind-blowing! WOW!! Abigail Adams was brilliant, outspoken, fiercely loyal, and one of American history’s most remarkable women.
I learned a lot, felt a lot, and think this one will stay with me for a long time.
Another five-star read from Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie.
Remember the ladies!
May 23, 2026
Excellent historical fiction story about one of my favorite First Ladies, Abigail Adams. This was especially good after reading biographies of both John Adams and John Quincy Adams. I had wanted to learn more about Abigail and this did a suburb job in telling her story in an engaging way. Thoroughly enjoyed on audio.
June 16, 2026
4.5 stars A well-researched & thorough accounting of the life of a remarkable woman--whose history was so closely linked to that of our country. Perfect read for our 250th anniversary!
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