The American Queen
In 1869 a kingdom rose in the South. And Louella was its queen.
- 2024 American Fiction Award Winner
- Christy Award & Audie Award honoree
- NC Reads 2025 Selection
- Featured: Good Morning America, Washington Post
From the USA Today bestselling author of The American Queen
The lives of real heroes prove this truth: equality is won when we rise together.
1880s, Ohio. When Mary and Anna enter the Bachelor of Arts program, also known as the "gentlemen's course" of study, at Oberlin College, they have little in common other than the color of their skin and their passion for education.
While Mary was raised in luxury, attending presidential inaugurations with her wealthy father, Anna is a schoolteacher, likely the daughter of her enslaved mother's former owner, and works a second job to pay for her room and board. But despite their differences, both women share strength, ambition, and a deep yearning for change. If they can bridge the gaps between them, they just might build a lasting legacy.
From its earliest days in the 1830s, Oberlin College admitted men and women, white and Black students. Though the doors are officially open, school policy cannot change the hearts of classmates who refuse to see a woman, and especially a Black woman, excel. Despite constantly being forced to prove themselves, the women triumphantly overcome every obstacle and push through their pain. And as the world evolves around them, Mary and Anna persevere to build a legacy of success and excellence.
Based on the real lives of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt, The Ladies Hall is a mirror into times of great change, where progress and new possibilities are met with violence and resistance. But hope always rises. And it rises still.
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 · 7:00 PM Eastern
Pre-order The Ladies Hall from any retailer above and join Vanessa for an intimate launch-week conversation about Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, Ida Gibbs Hunt, and the women who built The Ladies Hall.
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In 1869 a kingdom rose in the South. And Louella was its queen.
Two sisters. One unassuming haven. Endless opportunities for grace.
The 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre is, shockingly, little more than a footnote in history. Miller's book, thankfully, reverses that egregious oversight. We viscerally learn how this vibrant Black community fought devastation with resilience, faith, and grit.
Vanessa discusses The American Queen and how history, faith, and the writing community influence her artistic process here in North Carolina.
Read More →Donna Hill talks with USA Today bestselling author Vanessa Miller, author of more than fifty titles including the award-winning The American Queen.
Read More →So many blessings for this book. Watch the WBTV Charlotte interview about The American Queen.
Read More →I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be a blessing. Psalm 37:25-26
May neighbors respect you, trouble neglect you, angels protect you, and heaven accept you.
My writing is a gift from God, and I write to touch the heart and souls of God's people. I also believe we are all called to help our brothers and sisters in need.
I love reading stories written by this author. She always incorporates love, mystery, and God into her books. Her stories are very enlightening and heartfelt.