Author: Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks
Book Release Date: May 5, 2026
Pages: 463
Source: Netgalley/Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: 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.
My Review: Abigail Adams was both the First Lady and the Second Lady of the United States. She was the wife of President John Adams and the mother of President John Quincy Adams. This historical novel follows Abigail Adams from the time she married John Adams to the end of her life. It also shows that she had a very loving marriage with John Adams and was his closest advisor.
I first heard of Abigail Adams through the Broadway show, 1776, that was performed once at my local playhouse a few years ago. I also heard more of her in the HBO series, John Adams, and by reading a collection of her letters. Therefore, I was really delighted to read Mrs. Dray’s and Mrs. Kamoie’s historical fiction novel about Abigail Adams. I have to say that they did not disappoint. Instead, they outdone themselves and exceeded my expectations!
Abigail Adams was a very lovable character! I loved her wit and intelligence. She was fiery and passionate. She was also an enlightened thinker. She wanted women to have rights in the newly formed country, the United States of America. She was extremely disappointed when their rights were ignored. I also liked how Abigail used her resources during the Revolutionary War and started her own mercantile business. I loved how Abigail was resourceful and practical. She was a captivating and engaging heroine!
Overall, this book is about marriage, motherhood, and patriotism. I loved how the authors made the characters come alive. They seemed very real and intimate. I also loved how the authors portrayed colonial America and the uncertainties of whether their newfound country would survive. Even though the book is long, I did not feel its length. Instead, I did not want this novel to end! A Founding Mother was a mesmerizing and spell-binding read! I was engrossed in the book from the very first-page! A Founding Mother is an extraordinary tribute to Abigail Adams! This is a book that you do want to miss! I recommend it for fans of Becoming Lady Washington, The Secret Wife of Aaron Burr, and The Hamilton Affair!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
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