Review: America's First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie

America's First Daughter

by Stephanie Draw and Laura Kamoie

Publisher: William Morrow

Pages: 624

Format: ARC

Buy the Book: Amazon

Goodreads:  From her earliest days, Patsy Jefferson knows that though her father loves his family dearly, his devotion to his country runs deeper still. As Thomas Jefferson’s oldest daughter, she becomes his helpmate, protector, and constant companion in the wake of her mother’s death, traveling with him when he becomes American minister to France.

It is in Paris, at the glittering court and among the first tumultuous days of revolution, that fifteen-year-old Patsy learns about her father’s troubling liaison with Sally Hemings, a slave girl her own age. Meanwhile, Patsy has fallen in love—with her father’s protégé William Short, a staunch abolitionist and ambitious diplomat. Torn between love, principles, and the bonds of family, Patsy questions whether she can choose a life as William’s wife and still be a devoted daughter.

Her choice will follow her in the years to come, to Virginia farmland, Monticello, and even the White House. And as scandal, tragedy, and poverty threaten her family, Patsy must decide how much she will sacrifice to protect her father's reputation, in the process defining not just his political legacy, but that of the nation he founded.

Kritters Thoughts:  A many page saga that goes in depth into the life and times of Patsy Jefferson.  Known to many as the woman of the White House during Thomas Jefferson's presidency, his oldest daughter helped him host the many guests to the historical home, but also was his most trusted advisor.  

I thought I knew more than just the basics about Patsy Jefferson and Thomas Jefferson, but after reading this book I realized that I only knew the basics.  Yes, Patsy was beside him during the White House years, but she sacrificed so much beyond those years to be by his side and help him navigate all the political waters.  

Yes, Thomas Jefferson was rumored to be sleeping with one of his slaves, but according to this fictional account, it was more than just sleeping, but maybe a relationship that just wouldn't be recognized by others due to the times.  

This book is a chunk, but it is worth the pages.  I loved the epic saga and that it spanned 90% of Patsy Jefferson's life.  I also loved that yes, it was about a former President, but from her point of view instead of his.


Rating: absolutely loved it and want a sequel 
                  (or another book about a historical figure)

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received one copy of this book free of charge from TLC Book Tours.  I was not required to write a positive review in exchange for receipt of the book; rather, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.