A Founding Mother: A Novel of Abigail Adams by Stephanie Dray & Laura Kamoie

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. 

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.

Audiobook, 17 hours 20 minutes

Expected publication May 5, 2026

by William Morrow Paperbacks

4.5/5 stars

A Founding Mother is exactly what I've come to expect from this writing duo - they consistently deliver when it comes to well researched historical fiction.

This story brings Abigail Adams to life.  Set against the backdrop of the American Revolution and the early years of the nation, I didn't just see the political world taking shape but also her personal side. While John Adams is off helping to build a nation she is at home managing everything - raising a family, handling finances while also facing the realities of war and loss.

As with their previous books, the writing is detailed but not bogged down with details.  It isn't a small thing either, 464 pages, it is a slower paced, character driven read.  Abigail Adams was a woman ahead of her time.

I listened to the audiobook, which comes in at just over 17 hours.  It was narrated by Cassandra Campbell - one of my favourites.  

I've had the privilege of meeting Stephanie Dray many years ago and felt honored when she started following my blog in its early years.  Knowing what Laura Kamoie has been through in recent years made certain scenes hit that much harder emotionally.

This Canadian definitely appreciates reading about this time in history and can't wait to see what comes next for this duo.

My thanks to William Morrow for the audiobook arc in exchange for a honest review.