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

 

i

Publication May 5, 2026

Wow. What a champion of women Abigail Adams was. I'm delighted to say she's an ancestor. In fact, it was that tie that lead me to pick up this book originally. I'm so glad I did. I came away wishing I could have known her.

I won't go into detail as I'm seeing many other fine reviews elsewhere that relate more content, but will say it was a fascinating, well written read. The authors obviously did their research for this fictional historic novel and it shows. They also go into detail at the end about what is true, what was shifted in time, and what was their interpretation of events. Much of the dialogue is taken from Abigail's letters to husband John Adams, then serving in France for the wannabe America, and others. It was fun to get to see another side of the usually taciturn presentation of John, giving us a view of his human side. Same with John Quincy, who certainly had his share of adventures, too, with and without his father and family. The rest of the family, especially first daughter Nabby (nickname used throughout) and even some of her romantic ups and downs. She's something of a stoic but finds love but, whoa, wait to you see just how strong and stoic she could be. Of course, like many early American families, the Quincy/Adams family was pulled apart by the war. I'm sure you'll see the same common elements of that time that seem to be reappearing today so I won't say any more about that. The strong emphasis is on Abigail, of course, and it brings home the many sacrifices and hardships the women left behind by those struggling for freedom and then to make a new country from that freedom will keep history buffs reading as familiar name after name pops up. I did get a chuckle out of the confusion many seem to have had between John and Samuel, not to mention mail meant for one going to the other. 

The history buff in me admittedly was interested in it all although it was a war of independence years that really pulled me in. After opening with a quick look at Abigail and John's first meeting and eventual marriage, it seemed like we were suddenly thrust into war. What a shock it had to be to most to find their still new land caught up in conflict and rebellion. This book gives you the human side of it, too, including not just the shock of armed soldiers in the street and neighbor pitted against neighbor, but the sudden shock of British tea becoming scarce to Abigail's distaste for the newfound drink of coffee. Ah, how times change tho' I'm a tea drinker myself. Maybe I'll claim I inherited my taste buds from Abigail? Grin. 

In any case, if you have any interest in history, particularly the era leading up to and following the revolution, including John's term as president and beyond, you'll thoroughly enjoy this book. If your interest is more human directed, you'll also find much to ponder here, from family squabbles, hardship, slavery, tenant farmers, travel difficulties, loneliness, and more. Among the names that pop up are Benjamin Franklin, Lafayette, and Thomas Jefferson, I'll note, particularly as it segues into the post revolutionary years. My sincere thanks to #WilliamMorrow and #NetGalley for allowing me this early peek at a book I expect to buy for my own shelves upon release. I have to smile picturing what Abigail Adams would have to say about modern women's rights. 

Vanished in the Crowd (Molly Murphy #22), by Rhys Bowen and Clare Broyles

 

Publication March 10, 202

Lots of excitement over the upcoming Hudson-Fulton celebration of 1909. It's the 300th anniversary of Henry Hudson's discovery of the Hudson River and Molly Murphy Sulivan's family is caught up with it in a variety of ways. Her teenage daughter is super excited to be riding on a float while husband Daniel's early days with the fledgling NYC offices of the Federal Bureau of Investigation are beyond busy and stressful. As for Molly, she's stressing over an unexpected scarcity of funds since Daniel hasn't been paid in months. She's also chaffing a bit at being somewhat relegated to simply the role of wife and mother after running her own detective agency. In fact, women's reduced roles (in comparison to today) is a running theme of the book, including the suffragette movement two of Molly's dearest friends are deeply involved with. Then, a case falls into Molly's already busy world. Seems a well-known female research scientist has gone missing. She was supposed to be staying with neighbors Sid and Gus (you'll learn more about them as you read) but never showed up and now Willa Parker's husband has hired a Pinkerton agent to find her. Molly, already struggling with being underestimated as a woman, is determined to find Willa first. 

As always, it's the characters and ample doses of  history that keep me coming back to this series. I have grown to like Molly, Daniel, and, well, all the usual side characters. Balancing work and expectations as a wife and mother is a mental weight Molly carries throughout this entry. I mean, she even suffers a bit of a guilt trip over missing church while keeping some secrets from husband Daniel. Of course, Daniel hasn't exactly been forthcoming, either, so it was intriguing to see them work through this divide. It was also intriguing given the furor over vaccines as I type, that the missing scientist was focused on finding a cure for polio. Her findings, however, were all credited to her husband. Sigh. In any case, the plot moves right along and manages to insert bits of the real celebration, including a flyover by Wilber Wright and the first ever total illumination of NYC by electric bulbs.

And, oh, yes, there's a murder to solve, too, albeit the murder aspect of the mystery doesn't occur early on. Let's just say, don't stop reading when it appears the initial case has been solved. It all ties together, trust me. I won't detail the plot further other than to say that the women's suffrage movement is front and center as are, let's see, science and the social divide via class status. We even get a gentle reminder of how quickly a single "cold bug" can get around. My sympathies were with Molly the whole time, especially in Daniel's more unbending moments, but, hey, he's coming around. The ending was satisfactory albeit I found myself feeling weird to be rooting against a Pinkerton agent after just finishing another book with a female Pinkerton agent as the main character. Oh, well, reality bites. In any case, bottom line, this words wonderfully well as a standalone but I'd highly recommend that you check out the entire series. It's a solid, good one, that is built on strong characters who've grown as the series progresses. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #Minotaur for this early peek and for initially introducing me to Molly. There's a bit of a startling teaser for the next book at the very end and, of course, Molly's struggle to balance a career and home and family will always prove interesting. 

Murder in Trafalgar Square, by Michelle Salter

 

Publication Sept. 25, 2025

Although it took me a bit to warm up to main character Coral Fairbanks, I see a lot of promise to this new series. As with any new series, there is a lot of information and characters to digest, so it requires focus. I definitely appreciated the character list at the beginning. It was quite helpful as side characters came and went. I actually found myself liking male lead Guy Flynn far more than Coral in the beginning. You may agree when you read the action packed opening. Let's just say, nothing shy and retiring about Coral. She's feisty and opinionated. She's also a suffragette, a topic that gets lots of space in this opening to this new series. I'm not overly familiar with that movement in England, so there was quite a bit of history I had to digest, including a not yet overly powerful Winston Churchill's involvement with the movement. 

I won't elaborate the plot other than to say there's a murder involved. Big surprise, huh? Grin. Besides the women's battle for equal rights and the vote, there's intrigue, backstage wrangling of politicians, love and lust gone wrong, jokes taken too far, violence, and, well, more. The time is 1910, London, so it was interesting to time travel not only backwards for me but to drop in on a country where many of my Pilgrim ancestors came from so many years before but realize that some of the then battles could be equally compelling today. The author does a good job setting the scene, from the horse and carriages that still line the streets and the growing number of automobiles angling for space, to political wrangling and names anyone familiar with history knows the future of. There are quite a few characters but after some initial confusion, they quickly sorted themselves out in my mind and, for the most part, seemed both likable and strong enough to provide interest in future plots. 

Guy Flynn, not only a detective for Scotland Yard but an artist and raising a daughter on his own after his wife's death, was a unique twist and I'm looking forward to seeing how his roles play into those same future plots. Coral was, as noted, slow to grow on me but had come into her own by the end and emerged a strong, multi-layered woman with both a heart of gold and strong will. Watching her work her way through the unfamiliar scenario of being both a potential suspect and gaining Flynn's trust and becoming involved was interesting. Thanks #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks for this early peek at this brand new series. I'm looking forward to seeing where this tricky beginning takes us. Loved the ending! 

The Sisterhood (Lady Emily, #19), by Tasha Alexander

 

Publication Sept. 23, 2025

This was my first read of this apparently long running series. That said, while it ultimately worked as a stand-alone, I felt like I would have known the two leading characters far better had I read earlier books.  Bad me. I enjoyed the main characters, well, most of them, and always love my virtual visits to Edwardian England, even if the status conscious nobility frequently annoys me. All that aside, I don't think this was the book for me as the alternating timelines kept throwing off my focus. Honestly, being new to the series, I had no clue why we were suddenly back in AD 60 when a murder had just taken place in 1907, England. Although it ultimately made sense, I obviously need to shy away from books with this trait as it really broke my concentration and, quite frankly, frustrated my "I wanna know who did it!" fixation. Some readers won't be bothered by this at all, of course, making the book a 4/5 star for them, though for me it kept it at a 3.5 rounded to a 4 star.

As noted, I did wind up quite enjoying meeting Lady Emily and her husband Colin Hargreaves. While the book didn't focus much on their relationship, it appears an excellent one, with lots of understanding, patience, and support. There's even some humor. I applaud Colin for not simply strangling her snobby, very annoying mother. Let's just say, even while understanding Edwardian society pressures and its expectations, she got on my last nerve. I do wish I knew more about Colin's ties to the king, however, so I'm going to have to do some catch up reading. My other favorite character was Sebastian, ironically a thief, albeit a charming, devilishly one. He seems to go way, way back with Emily, claiming an undying love, a relationship that, again, I need to sort out. He may be a thief, but he's charming and I have to admit, I sort of enjoyed his tweaking of the system and readily being willing to share the weak points he utilized in his thefts with Emily and Colin.

As for the murder, it happens early on. I was actually rather taken with the victim, so a bit disappointed to see them killed off so soon. The final reveal was actually rather shocking but made sense based on all we see and learn. And, no, I didn't guess it early though the clues were certainly there. The 60 AD story threw my sleuthing game off. Yeah, that's my excuse. Oddly enough, I think I'd have found that story line intriguing on its own given my own history buff tendencies and the role of horses in Vatta's life. I did know the gist of the story of the ancient warrior woman, Boudica, so it was interesting to read more about that era, confused as it left me initially about its connections to the 1907 mystery. And, the title will make sense to you as being symbolic as the story progresses. You'll also be reminded that being popular isn't the same as being liked. 

Bottom line, while not quite the book for me, it intrigued me enough to have put a couple of the author's past books on hold at the library. I liked the relationship between Emily and Colin, especially in comparison to some of those surrounding them, and want to know more. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for sharing this with me and letting me know what I've been missing.  

Dear Miss Perkins: A Story of Frances Perkins's Efforts to Aid Refugees from Nazi Germany, by Rebecca Brenner Graham

 

Publication Feb. 11, 2025     

Audio Book   8h  29m    Narrated by Tanya Eby

You'll learn a great deal from this book, some of it quite disturbing. Far from the "land of opportunity" most American's like to think of our country as, it's often been downright unwelcoming. In fact, we seem to be going through a phase of deja vu again right now. Sigh. Yet, amongst the turmoil, one can find moments of hope. Moments of inspriation. Frances Perkins' life is an example of that. While I did know of her, about how she served as the first female cabinet member (Labor, under FDR), I had little real knowledge of the true challenge she faced. 

Although I initially took copious notes, I eventually abandoned that tactic in favor of simply reading or, in my case since I had the audio book, listening. Maybe it was a subconscious effort to push forward faster in hopes of reaching a "happily ever after" ending. No such luck. The same issues that faced Perkins face us today, magnified by social media. Let's face it, racism and immigration are hot topic, problematic issues even today. Knowing this, that makes Perkins' accomplishments all the more impressive. While she certainly didn't solve all the problems of her day, just like no one person will do so today, she did what she could, often against strong opposition. In other words, she made a difference. Looking back, so many of the things we Americans take for granted today were born from Perkins' ideas and, with the backing of FDR, many were enacted into laws that still guide us today. As an Alaskan, one of the ideas that was floated about, btw, not necessarily by Perkins, was to use the then territory of Alaska as a sort of refugee location. Obviously that one didn't go anywhere. 

I'd be doing you a disservice to even attempt to summarize all the history and issues/actions discussed. This one deserves a read. In fact, I'm thinking it should be required reading/listening for anyone who has any interest in not just history but current affairs. While much of the history was saddening, there is much of hope to be found here, too. Perkins pushed against limits and she made a difference. All while dealing with an institutionalized husband suffering from Bi-Polar disease, I might add. 

Bottom line, not an easy read by any means although I think the better wording might better be "not a comfortable read". There's a huge amount of information to take in, not all involving immigration and refugees, and the author's obvious deep dive of research shows. While focused around letters citizens sent Perkins, it's far more broad reaching and comprehensive. It's easy to mumble about nostalgia for the good ol' days but, well, those good ol' days for some were anything but for others. This book, telling of how one rather private, steely determined woman made a difference should serve as an inspiration and reminder to us that, yes, one person can make a difference. We may not change the world like Perkins but we can make a difference to many. Thanks #TantorAudio for allowing me this early read/listen. While I was deeply uncomfortable reading portions of it, hope shines through. Frances Perkins persevered and did make a difference. Maybe that's why the character of Baby in "Dirty Dancing" was named after her?

Remarkable Women: Fascinating Facts You Never Knew About Amazing Women!, by Eric Huang, Sam Caldwell (illustrator)

 Publication Jan. 28, 2024

This was a quick, easy read that featured a variety of women from all ages, not to mention giving a nod to some early mythological representatives. The selection was a nice mix of known and relatively unknown names to me although I'll note for modern readers that the likes of Taylor Swift, Oprah, and several First Ladies were highlighted. I actually never knew only a few of our First Ladies had achieved Master's Degrees, just one of the facts I picked up as I read. While aimed at young readers, it's always nice to discover there is something there for even us so called adults to learn, too. It was definitely great to see the female human computers of NASA, so to speak, be spotlighted as well as earlier leaders in math/science development such as Ada Lovelace and movie star Hedy Lamarr. 

The book follows the same general structure throughout. It's ordered by category, including Legends, Geniuses, Creatives, Superstars, Leaders, and Trailblazers. Each features the chosen subjects, starting with a text of what we think we know about them, only to tell us the truth about that assumption. Each of the characters is nicely drawn, with artist Sam Caldwell seeming to draw on some feature or object related to the topic. The illustrations are fun and lively, frequently accompanied by short text boxes or dialogue balloons adding more. I definitely liked that the subjects came from different places and times, giving a diverse feel to the book. The combo of well-known figures and those only vaguely known or even new to us was a nice mix, too. 

Finally, to help add a sense of order and time, there's a timeline of when each individual was born, followed by a world map showing where. It was fun to look at both and see where their lives merged, not to mention the different continents they were born in. There's also a glossary with easy to grasp definitions. The ample use of color and placement, so to speak, were helpful throughout. Thanks #QuartoPublishingGroup - #wordsandpictures for the early share of this intriguing look at the roles women have not just taken but excelled in throughout history. Readers, this would make a great gift for both students and teachers, not to mention just those interested in history and women's roles in it. It made me take another look at Jane Austen's books, that's for sure, and her critiques of societies.

Murder by the Letter: A cozy 1930s Jack and Frances mystery, by Carmen Radtke

 Available Jan. 1, 2025

Frances and Jack are in London spending some time with his mother. While there, Frances and her mother-in-law stumble across a blackmail scheme at the Athena Club for women. It doesn't take long before not just Frances and Jack are involved trying to nab the blackmailer but family members and associates. Being new to the series, I didn't warm up to the characters immediately but ultimately enjoyed the story. The pace was slow, true, in comparison to most modern day cozy mysteries but, hey, life moved much slower in the 1930's, so that's understandable. Human nature hasn't changed, however, as we discover. Murder soon follows.

My favorite characters, ironically, weren't Frances and Jack. Instead, Uncle Sal quickly won me over with his genius at assuming disguises at the merest suggestion. He obviously didn't come by his stage title of Salvador the Magnificent by accident. Frances seems to have been his occasional assistant, so I'm going to have to play catch-up with the back stories, it seems. Mildred, er, excuse me. Lady Mildred, wasn't a slouch, either. I did learn something, or at least think I did. According to the text, Frances' confusion on British titles was somewhat helped when she discovered that when the title is inherited, the woman is referred to as Lady Mildred. Otherwise, she'd have been known as Lady Clifton if my marriage alone, I must check to verify this as, quite frankly, how British titles works eludes me, too, Frances. Grin. In any case, while the characters don't always seem to be coordinating their ideas for the investigation well....no cell phones in 1930's, remember.... it was fun to see how they worked with what they had, brains and largely Jack's military background. The setting was well described and I grinned at the wonder on spectators' eyes at the idea of a female driver. Yes, definitely a different world.

Bottom line, while I wasn't quite hooked, I did enjoy the story and easily fell into the more relaxed pace while marveling at how times have changed. I definitely liked seeing women being taught self-defense, sadly a need that hasn't vanished. Even the rarity of typewriters was something I'd never really pondered, so that added a new twist to my thinking about that era. Toss in the delay in discovering the identity of a murder victim, possible financial problems at the women's club, and more, and there was much to keep you entertained while learning a bit about life not quite a hundred years ago. Thanks #BookSirens for the early copy. Bet you never imagined it'd help me sort out British titles, did you?

Murder in Season (A Lady of Letters Mystery, 3), by Mary Winters

 Publication December 3, 2024

In public, Amelia Amesbury is the proper English Lady of 1860 England. She has a secret, however. Well, perhaps more than one. The biggest secret is her identity as columnist Lady Agony. As such, she offers some frequently not-so-discreet advice to those who write in for advice. You know, hardly the thing a Lady of that time would think, let alone vocalize. She could use some advice herself this go-round, however. First, advice on how to handle her beautiful, unpredictable sister who arrives unannounced to be sponsored for the season. Seems Madge has run into a few problems back home, one of which involved leaving a not-so gentlemanly wannabe suitor with a broken arm. I'd say Madge is not to be trifled with. For that matter, Amelia could use some sage advice on her own romantic yearnings. Seems she just can't quite budge Simon from the friend zone into suitor material. Then there's the little matter of a male guest that becomes ill at the ball given for Madge and later dies.  Toss in a jewel thief absconding with some valuable family jewels from various residences and Amelia's amateur sleuth persona is about to be very busy. And, oh, did I mention that the man that died had words with Madge just before coming ill? That only adds to the problems Amelia is trying to juggle.

I won't detail the plot further other than to say there are other, actually far more viable suspects than Madge. But, well, seems to Detective in charge has it in for the Amesbury family. Toss in what we'd consider quaint standards of behavior, what society members find proper and improper, and family pressures and Amelia can't seem to catch a break. Those used to somethings happening every second plot speed may find this one quite slow but it's actually quite nice to relax into the pace of the 1860s. I liked the characters, even stern, rigid Aunt Tabitha, who is a force to be reckoned with when she assumes her mantle as Lady Tabitha, that's for sure. Simon is solid, albeit could be the poster boy for slow burn romances. Madge, oh, boy, she is personality plus. Outgoing, far more physically able than the typical female of that era, and can't always seem to rein in her impetuous mouth. There are more, actually lots more, which does always seem to take me a bit to sort through them given the use of both titles and names. What can I say, I felt like I needed a cast of characters at times. 

Bottom line, an enjoyable if slow read. The setting was well done and I felt like I was strolling the park with characters more than once, and the descriptions of both the clothing and physical appearances were well done. And, oh, some of the clothing. I'm the sort that doesn't much like dressing up but it'd sure be fun to see, wouldn't it? As to whodunit, I didn't really sort it out until the reveal for sure, so it kept me guessing. And, oh, do be sure to read the epilogue. Thanks #SevernHouse for letting me take an early time-travel trip back to 1860 London. It was fun and I found myself enjoying the characters and their lives/adventures, both of which gave me an idea of the difference between the haves and have not groups. The traces of humanity from all were well done and heartwarming at times.

Dog Kisses and Danger (Heywood Hounds Cozy Mysteries Book 6), by Carly Winter

 

Publication Nov. 14-2024

Gina is great with dogs but not so great with avoiding being involved in murder investigations. This time, however, the temporary police chief seems to be doing everything he can to get her involved without actually doing the asking. Why? Because there's been a murder right smack dab in the middle of the election for a new police chief and boyfriend Trevor seems to be the top suspect as he was one of the candidates running to be police chief. But, why would someone murder the ballot counter? Would that really stop an election, or at least generate another voting period? Gina is determined to prove Trevor's innocence even if she has to investigate Shane Sheridan, the other candidate. Or the victim's husband. Or…a ghost? Or....well, you get my drift. She's even willing to ask some of her, hmm, less savory family and friends to help. 

In addition to the stress of a personal murder investigation, Gina has also taken on another abandoned dog. Since not only is Daisy a talking dog (how/why Gina understands her is briefly detailed), she not only talks but has a lot to say. Fortunately, Daisy is able to discover the dog, a seemingly well-trained German Shepherd, is named Wolfgang. The dog is a saint. He even tolerates hyper, always eager to be loved Daisy's moments. Daisy for Dictator?

But, back to the murder. Nope, not detailing the plot, but will say that, as usual, Gina dives in headfirst. She's always been quick tempered and her patience level isn't much better, albeit she's maybe reined it in a bit for Trevor's sake. Her investigative methods aren't the norm, either, but she does seem to get results, even when they're not necessarily the ones she expected. I found it amusing that she thought Trevor seemed to overreact at times, given her tendencies. Does she put herself into dangerous situations? Oh, definitely, but you already guessed that. She has some unorthodox help this time, too, but, nope, not sharing that, either. Well, at least they promised not to kill her...this time. 

Bottom line, a fun, quick read that I enjoyed. If I understood the author's words right, it sounds like this may be the end of Gina and Daisy's adventures or, at the very least a pause. My thanks to #BookSirens and the author for giving me a sneak peek at the election and aftermath. While I thought Gina was often rash and impetuous, I enjoyed her (and Daisy's) antics and hope the author will give us a peek into what's going on in Heywood occasionally. I'd really like to see how Wolfgang's new career plays out. Daisy may make us happy but hopefully Wolfgang has found his purpose, too. Treats for both Daisy and him.

Women in the Valley of the Kings: The Untold Story of Women Egyptologists in the Gilded Age, by Kathleen Sheppard

 Publication July 16, 2024

If you're into Egyptology or archeology, this fascinating book should be on your shelf. On the other hand, if you only have a mild interest and little or no background, you may find it a frustrating read. I fell somewhere in between and found certain parts of the book absolutely fascinating and intriguing while I must admit to skimming through others. For me, given my prior interest, I think it's safe to say this book will take me more than one read to take in all the information shared. Kathleen Sheppard has done a great deal of research and it shows. You'll definitely appreciate the index and notes at the end listing sources and perhaps pointing you off on your own search for more on these mostly little known women.

Basically, what you have here is a rather thorough history of not just these women and the archaeology of Egypt, but a decent history of Egypt's history itself. It's solid and not particularly detailed but more than adequate to give readers a feel for the give-and-take and various international influences on the area. Like many, I probably first became interested in this area due to Howard Carter's discovery of the tomb of "King Tut", so it was intriguing to read about the various women who were there before and during his time. It was also interesting to be reminded that early excavations were, sigh, almost anything but done carefully, think dynamite, rather than each item being carefully retrieved and documented. As a lover of history, it made me sad to imagine how much was lost but, anyway, on to the ladies.

Many that came were wealthy, many flocking to Egypt in hopes the dry air might improve their health. For instance, Lady Duff Gordon, one of the more recognized names in the book, traveled to Luxor, Egypt, in 1864 hoping for a tuberculosis cure. She wrote of her experiences and all the wonders she saw.  Her writings would inspire others, others who play key roles in this book. I'm not going to detail these women, much as I'd like to (see the blurb for names), as it'd take pages, but will say that each touched those who came after in some way. While we do get to know these women as the book goes along, the focus is on their work, not them as private individuals. Most documented their stays in some way, often through letters home or diaries. Some of their writings, to their credit, reveal the workers who did the grunt work, the heavy, tedious work, giving them their due, too. I should also note that these women were largely shunted aside and their contributions largely forgotten or even ignored, so I applaud Sheppard for giving them the spotlight.

Bottom line, I plan to go back through this book periodically to better digest what is within. These women deserve that. I simply cannot imagine the difficulties they faced while surrounded by people whose language they didn't speak and men who considered them inconsequential and thus not only made it more difficult for them to get official permission to excavate but gave them little credit for all their accomplishments. Thank you #NetGalley and #StMartin'sPress for letting me time-travel back to this Golden Age of Egypt's exploration and archaeology to meet these intriguing women.