A Founding Mother

by Stephanie Dray

First published 2026

Abigail Adams watches riots tear through Boston streets as she raises four children in a city gripped by revolution. Her husband John travels for months at a time, transforming from country lawyer into founding father, leaving Abigail to run their farm, invest their money, and defend their home against both disease and political enemies. She writes him bold letters, urging him to "remember the ladies" when crafting laws for the new republic. Her counsel becomes his compass as he navigates the treacherous waters of early American politics. When peace arrives, Abigail steps into international society, debating philosophy with Thomas Jefferson in France and mastering the delicate art of diplomacy in British court circles. She hosts the power brokers of the early republic in New York and Philadelphia, wielding influence through careful conversation and strategic alliance. Even after John's presidency ends, she continues fighting for her family's future and the independence of women in her circle. This is the story of a woman who refused to remain silent.

Genres: biography, drama, american-fiction, historical-fiction, womens-fiction, american-history

Vibes: empowering, historically-immersive, intimate, literary, thought-provoking

Tropes: behind-the-scenes-influence, historical-correspondence, political-intrigue, strong-female-lead

Setting: Boston, France, Britain, New York, Philadelphia

Period: American Revolution, 18th century, Early American Republic

452 pages · Paperback · William Morrow Paperbacks

Content warnings: death, war

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