A Founding Mother, A Novel of Abigail Adams by Stephanie Dray; Laura Kamoie #BookReview @Stephanie.Dray @LauraKamoie #NetGalley @WilliamMorrowBooks @BaysideBookReviews #historicalfiction #WomensFiction

Pub Date May 05 2026
William Morrow | William Morrow Paperbacks
General Fiction (Adult) | Historical Fiction | Women’s Fiction

Description:

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.

Adele’s Review:

A Founding Mother is an impressive work of historical fiction. Everything about the writing, storytelling, and pacing is five-star worthy. This reviewer wasn’t sure what to expect when I received my advance copy, but the wow factor hit inside the first few pages. Historical fiction is somewhat out of my comfort zone, but this book is such an informative and pleasant read I quickly became immersed in the story. Abigail Adams was a smart, capable woman and a strong leader and patriot.

The Colonial history of our country reminds us that our founders suffered immeasurably to gain our independence. Starvation, disease, and loneliness took women and children’s lives while their men went to battle. Fear and uncertainty were daily reminders of our nation’s tenuous experiment. Still, the founders pressed on. As I read this well researched and reader-friendly book, I was again reminded of how blessed we are to be Americans. Don’t miss this one!

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8575035711

Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DG5T3PZJ

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