America 250 Celebration: Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie discuss A Founding Mother: A Novel of Abigail Adams

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.

Stephanie Dray graduated with a degree in Government from Smith College, then went on to Northwestern University School of Law. Before embarking on her writing career, she honed her skills as a lawyer, game designer, and private test preparation teacher. These diverse experiences enrich her novels, which illuminate the stories of remarkable women in history. Her work not only explores the past but also aims to inspire and empower young women today. Stephanie’s commitment to historical accuracy and vivid storytelling are evident in her richly detailed narratives.

Laura Kamoie has always been fascinated by the people, stories, and physical presence of the past, which led her to a lifetime of historical and archaeological study, training, and teaching. She holds a doctoral degree in early American history from The College of William and Mary, published two non-fiction books on early America, has extensive public history and professional speaking experience, and most recently held the position of Associate Professor of History at the U.S. Naval Academy before transitioning to a full-time writing career, first in romance and suspense under the New York Times bestselling pen name Laura Kaye, and then in historical fiction as Laura Kamoie.