Let Us March On

by Shara Moon

Devoted wife, White House maid, reluctant activist…

A stirring novel inspired by the life of an unsung heroine, and real-life crusader, Lizzie McDuffie, who as a maid in FDR’s White House spearheaded the Civil Rights movement of her time.

I’m just a college-educated Southerner with a passion for books. My husband says I’m too bold, too sharp, too unrelenting. Others say I helped spearhead the Civil Rights movement of our time. President Roosevelt says I’m too spunky and spirited for my own good.

Who am I?

I am Elizabeth “Lizzie” McDuffie.

And this is my story…

When Lizzie McDuffie, maid to Eleanor and Franklin D. Roosevelt, boldly proclaimed herself FDR’s “Secretary-On-Colored-People’s-Affairs,” she became more than just a maid—she became the President’s eyes and ears into the Black community. After joining the White House to work alongside her husband, FDR’s personal valet, Lizzie managed to become completely indispensable to the Roosevelt family. Never shy about pointing out injustices, she advocated for the needs and rights of her fellow African Americans when those in the White House blocked access to the President.

Following the life of Lizzie McDuffie throughout her time in the White House as she championed the rights of everyday Americans and provided access to the most powerful man in the country, Let Us March On looks at the unsung and courageous crusader who is finally getting the recognition she so richly deserves.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Adult Fiction, Politics, Book Club, Audiobook

384 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 18, 2024

About the author

Shara Moon is a first-generation Haitian American writer and amateur historian who enjoys exploring Black world history. She is a former college writing instructor with degrees from the University of Central Florida and the City College of New York. LET US MARCH ON is her debut historical fiction novel.

Reviews

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was 5 stars for me. I was not expecting a personal connection for this book but the connection that Lizzie McDuffie had to the Inman family in Atlanta struck me. Also, the fact that the Inman's lived in The Swan House which is a notable mansion in Atlanta that is often frequented by tourists is so fascinating. After FDR was elected, Lizzie and her husband who was the personal assistant to FDR moved into the White House. Lizzie was hired as a maid by Eleanor Roosevelt. They finished their first 4 years, FDR was re-elected and then re-elected again. Lizzie became a trusted advisor to the President during her tenure at the White House. Lizzie received letters daily from black members of the community and she often had heard about their injustices. She took these letters and stories and talked to FDR about them and would later become known as the "Secretary On Colored People's Affairs" (or as FDR called it, SOCPA).

Great and fairly easy read. Thanks for NetGalley for the ARC!

[Stephanie Fitzgerald · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Fascinating historical fiction about the woman who worked in FDR’s White House not only as a maid, but as a friend to the President and First Lady. Lizzie and her husband, who was FDR’s personal valet, were there and were a vital part of his entire presidency, including the term he never got to finish…

[Moonkiszt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let Us March On by Shara Moon brings up the story of a heroine I had never heard of. . .with all the history I have been taught, classes and classes of it. Readings aplenty on this very topic in which I'm interested. . .until Shara Moon put her book on the shelf. . .I learned about Elizabeth "Lizzie" McDuffie.

Her husband, Mac, was FDR's valet, and in time she joined him at the White House starting out as a maid (and always stayed one). Eventually other tasks were added to her plate, not the least of which was campaigning for FDR in her community of color. She was good at it, and genuine as well, making sure to connect those she could with the President, First Lady or other important gatekeepers. She also found time to eventually tell her story, which readers like me are only just now finding as bit by bit the blinders of our narrow, curated histories are being overcome.

Lizzie's story is a good one, and Ms. Moon does a persuasive job of presenting it, setting it properly within the context of FDR's time in office. She allows the obstacles and challenges to show the difficulties faced by people of color at that particular time - and the bitter battle of politics that so many generations later still remains.

*A sincere thank you to Shara Moon, William Morrow, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently. #LetUsMarchOn #NetGalley 25|52:52e

[Diane Vallere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shara Moon creates a vibrant depiction of Lizzie McDuffie and brings FDR's white house years to life. With not always comfortable source material, this book managed to be both hopeful and entertaining.

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting and entertaining read! It's always fun to read a book about a real person and to learn something new and more!I hadn't heard of Elizabeth McDuffie a White House maid, who rose to become a fearless Civil Rights advocate but she was a passionate, courageous and strong woman! The author does a wonderful job describing her feelings of helplessness and the dangers she faced but also the triumphs! Overall it was an entertaining read that really brought an amazing picture of a brave woman who stood up for what she thought was right! Thank you Books Forward PR and Shara Moon for sharing this book with me!

[Jessica · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book could have been SO much better, but it did a disservice to Lizzie McDuffie. In this book, her character was two dimensional - flat and not fully developed. How many times did the author have to write that a particular topic weighed on her mind but yet, there were guests to attend to (more guests than were on the list!). So that was that - the weighty topics that the Negro community (using the terms of the day written in the book) were dealing with were left undeveloped and, instead, we were reading about housekeeping (again and again). The author wrote that she chose to insert the topic of lynching - an important civil rights issue of that time - even though there was no record of Lizzie having these conversations with FDR. But instead of using that opportunity to help the reader understand more about the politics surrounding lynching, such as delving into the arguments in Congress, the actual bills that might have been proposed, the other people fighting for or against an anti-lynching law, she left the topic with several dead-end conversations with FDR telling her "now's not the right time because I need the Southern Democrat vote". While I'm guessing that is true, the author could have dealt with this topic with better research and writing, helping us to understand the real history at this time. Instead, multiple times Lizzie contemplated the issue (lots of her thinking about this topic), deciding to talk to FDR, having the conversation, getting rebuffed and then resolving that she wouldn't give up. A little way further in the book, the same scene would repeat itself. Again. And again.

Lizzie's thinking on a variety of topics repeated itself over and over. For example, she read letters from people asking for help and her thoughts were always the same. "I must do something, but how will I do it with so many demands at the White House? Nevertheless, I WILL find a way." While this is admirable and shows her grit and determination, when the same words are used over and over to describe the same thing, it gets to be tedious reading. Lizzie campaigned for FDR, yet all we really know was that she was nervous but determined. Then she felt good about what she did. The author repeated Lizzie's actions, resolve and satisfaction with every 4-year presidential campaign. I believe with deeper research; the author could have helped us learn far more about these campaign events than Lizzie's feelings.

I cannot recommend this book, which is sad because I think Lizzie was likely a remarkable woman in a pivotal time in our history and much could be learned about her time serving the Roosevelt's.

[Ashlyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well this book really wasn’t for me. This was very heavily political. Yes, it focused on FDR and black rights and a lot of different things like that; however, the story itself just wasn’t for me. If I had actually read what the book was about before going into it, I probably wouldn’t have picked it up. There were a few times that I actually got really into the story, and I did find this book to be informative. The story itself though felt more like it was nonfiction rather than fiction. I finished and still can’t tell you if it was truly a nonfiction because it felt like a recalling of something that actually happened with so many real people and things that did happen in real life. I’m convinced that the main character was an actual person and did and said everything that was in this book. I might have connected to the character a little more if it would have read more like a historical fictional novel, but this one felt too true for me. Which I’m not saying that’s a bad thing at all, it just wasn’t for me. I wanted a little more character depth rather than just being told things. I wanted inside her head more and to see more emotion. I wanted this to have more experiences for the character rather than a fast paced of what happened in her life. I do think that some people would really enjoy this book; however, I just wasn’t the right person for it.

I received and eARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[NrsKelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am normally a huge fan of historical fiction….especially when it relates to an actual person who lived some of the event. Although I found Lizzie and her friendship with FDR to have its delightful moments, I felt the internal monologue which seemed to get repetitive took away from the story for me.
Although Lizzie said how much she loved her husband there was very little evidence of that in the book. I honestly forgot about him about 3 quarters of the way through and it felt like she had as well.
Overall it was a decent read to learn some interesting things about a horrible time in history. 3/5 stars for me as it is not something I would read again.
I received an ARC of this title, all opinions are my own.

[Harris · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is one of the books that have come out in recent years that focuses on a woman who played a role with policy changes during FDR's administration. I wonder if I would have enjoyed it more had the book been written in the third person. I felt like the first person narrative was too simple and didn't highlight Lizzie McDuffie's impact.

For those seeking a book set during FDR's administration, I would recommend "The First Ladies" by Marie Benedict and "Becoming Madam Secretary" by Stephanie Dray.

[Kristin Eoff · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was excited to open this book and find the epigraph cites lines from the hymn "Lift Every Voice" by James Weldon Johnson. I recognized the lines from singing this song in church and found myself singing it as I read the lines.
I found the book interesting and thought-provoking because I have read a lot of historical fiction but had never before read any novels about the FDR administration. Elizabeth McDuffie sounds like a very courageous and fascinating person. However, I thought the book needed more copy reading to fix a few grammatical mistakes, and I was disappointed to learn in the afterword that much of the conflict in the plot was manufactured for this book. Lastly, there was one unnecessary curse word at the end that seemed out of character for the protagonist.

[Sarah (sarahs_shelves_sc) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this historical fiction read and was fascinated by the true story of Elizabeth McDuffie, a maid in FDR's White House.

McDuffie may have started as a maid, but she quickly became indispensable to FDR, acting as a voice for the Black community. Citizens would write letters to her, and she would speak with FDR about the injustices people were facing across the country at the time, from unfair working conditions to issues of equality.

The book is written in first person POV, and it was written in a way that felt like you were sitting down to hear McDuffie tell you her stories. It was personable and interesting, and I loved hearing the story of one woman making such a huge difference for many others.

Parts of the book still feel timely today, and I'll end with this quote: "We must let our voices be heard. We must speak up and protect each other. Silence means acceptance. Silence means we are complicit."

Thank you to William Morrow for the gifted copy; all opinions are my own.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️ — Lizzie McDuffie was the star here, and yes, I’ve now gone full rabbit hole on her life and the people orbiting her. A little repetitive at times, but still a solid, intriguing listen—plus, bonus FDR content I didn’t know I needed.

[Julie Pavlick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Randomly the 2nd book I’ve read recently about the FDF administration 🤷🏻‍♀️. Solid historical fiction - well worth the read.

Forage & Ferry Reader Society: May 2025 Book Selection

[Elyse Rodriguez · Rating 3 out of 5]

I appreciated the research that went into this book. I respect the author for bringing to light the life of Elizabeth McDuffie, a woman whose story might have otherwise remained unknown. The book sparked a genuine curiosity in me to learn more about Lizzie, Eleanor Roosevelt, and several key events that took place during Roosevelt’s presidency.

While I enjoyed the memoir aspect, it often felt a bit flat. It read more like an article summarizing her life than a personal recounting from someone who lived it. I was left wanting more. More emotion, more insight, more of Lizzie's voice. The narrative lacked depth in key areas, especially when it came to Lizzie’s inner world. I wanted to know how she felt, what she thought, and how she processed the complex moments of her life. I wanted more insights to her marriage with Mac.

There were a lot of "name-drops" throughout, which added intrigue, but they were often presented without much context or follow-up. It felt like being handed crumbs of a decadent cake without getting to enjoy the full slice. I wanted more substance behind the mentions, more stories, more feeling, more reflection.

Overall, I admire the effort and the importance of this story being told, but I found myself wishing for a deeper, more intimate connection with Lizzie herself.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bright and inspiring debut novel for this author. Having recently read “Becoming Madame Secretary”, by a different author, but also about a strong woman who worked alongside FDR during his presidency, this was a great parallel. Lizzie McDuffie is a colored woman who follows her husband “Mac” to the White House as he continues his position of valet to FDR. Lizzie soon becomes employed herself as a White House maid. She is then able to use her position to be a bridge between the president and the black people of America to try to help create a better world for “her people”. Lizzie and Mac are portrayed as hard working, loyal people and I enjoyed learning more about them throughout this book. I also discovered more about the kind of person Roosevelt was. Kind, tough, hardworking… very much like Mac and Lizzie. He truly did what he could to make our country better through some hard times. I would have liked to have had the author delve into a little more of the things Lizzie did for people of color, as it sounds like she was instrumental in getting some things accomplished by continuing to bring their perils to the president and Eleanor Roosevelt. I love that the author chose to tell the story through Lizzie’s eyes as it let us see her world up close and personal. I would definitely pick up future books by this author!
Thank you to Netgalley and William Morriw publishing for an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Renée | apuzzledbooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/5 stars

I was not aware of who Lizzie McDuffie was or the role she played in the FDR White House until I read this book. She was a maid and a somewhat reluctant Civil Rights activist. Her husband, Irvin ‘Mac’ McDuffie, was Franklin Roosevelt’s valet. They were employed there for 12 years.

I thought this was an interesting book and I loved how she had the ability to advocate for people of color in big and small ways through her connection to the president. It is a slower paced book. I enjoyed learning from this story.

[Thanks to the publisher, William Morrow Books, and NetGalley for the advance electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]

[Michele]

https://www.bookbub.com/blog/historic...

[Aggie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Too polished it’s like written by AI.

[Ciera Howell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and William Morrow for this ARC! Starting this on MLK Jr Day was special. A timely book for today, this reminded me of how history repeats itself. We watch the FDR four term presidency through the eyes of White House maid Lizzie McDuffie.

FDR was president during WW2 and was responsible for the Japanese internment. However, Lizzie sees FDR as a hero. A quote from one of Lizzie's speeches when she was leading campaigns for his reelection: "God emancipated our souls and Lincoln emancipated our bodies, but FDR emancipated the civic side of the negro."

Lizzie is the perfect example of someone using their position for good. The personal White House details were a fun touch.

I did struggle with some aspects of the book. For example, it rubbed me the wrong way that it was seen as progressive that most of the White House staff, at the servant level, were negroes (as the book says). Towards the end of the book, Lizzie does appear to see this in a negative light as well, it seemed. There were also undertones of Lizzie being used by FDR and his family to win the negro vote. Lizzie seems to be against this and speaks of FDR as a friend and great boss.

Mr. Squeaks was a great moment and a great metaphor (IYKYK).

Another great quote: "When the most vulnerable members of our society are in trouble, then the rest of us have an obligation to safeguard them the best we can."

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let Us March On by Shara Moon is a truly captivating historical novel which is based on true real events and people.

Lizzie McDuffie’s husband Mac is Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt’s valet. When FDR runs for and wins the presidency, Lizzie moves to Washington hoping to find work in the White House. For the first time in a long time, the couple live and work together after she is hired by Eleanor Roosevelt as a maid.

However, Lizzie is more than just a maid. She and Mac are FDR’s personal friends. As people in the Black community are blocked from seeing the President, Lizzie is inundated with letters and requests from her leaders and citizens. Behind the scenes, she works to bring FDR and Black leaders together to make life better for Black workers and families during and after the great depression.

Let Us March On is a well-researched debut that puts the reader in the FDR White House. Lizzie guides us through her and Mac’s lives through their FDR years. She works tirelessly not just at her job but stumping on the campaign trail during FDR’s subsequent presidential candidacies. Lizzie's influence with couple is instrumental in bettering lives in the Black community. Shara Moon brings this riveting novel vibrantly to life and reveals just how personable Franklin and Eleanor were at the time.

[Onceinabluemoon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enthralling!

[Tamisha booklovertamisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading historical fiction, particularly when I learn something new from it. I'm not very familiar with the FDR era. I know what I learned in school about the New Deal & WW2. This book gave insight into Lizzie McDuffie, a White House maid. She used her time working in the White House to bring Black issues to the forefront.

This was an insightful novel that brought the role of a servant to the forefront. I can't attest to the accuracy of everything the author wrote. I'm not 100% sold on how much influence she really had on FDR or Lady Roosevelt. The story started to get repetitive and drag at times, but it's still one I would recommend.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

[Mangala · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nah. Journal style memoir/novel based on the life of Eliza McDuffy, the maid at the White House during FDR's 4 terms as president. Gives a one sided picture of the history of that time.

[Theresa Suplee · Rating 5 out of 5]

And this is why I love historical fiction! I learned about a woman who I never would’ve known about but who deserves to be known!

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read this book for a book club. I think it will provide a lot of discussion points. Reading this book in 2026 one realizes we haven’t made as much progress as we should have.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great novel about someone most of us do not know about.

[James R · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s historical fiction, but reads as if it is a memoir with insights and observations about FDR and the times from a Black perspective.

[Jill Steffen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super engaging fictional retelling of the life and legacy of Lizzie McDuffie, a maid and friend to FDR during his 4 terms in office!

[The History Mom]

Learned so much from this novel about a black woman in FDR's White House. Loved how it mentioned so many events and people from history. Glad Lizzie's story is finally being told!