The first 75% of this was wonderful! Beautifully written, great story telling, characterization, and wonderful analysis and inference of what each character may have been thinking. I both read in print and listened to some of the audiobook. Both were equally joyful ways to consume this story.

Unfortunately, the last 25% got too preachy for me. I tired of hearing how our leading lady, Louella, would just have to hope that God would hear her need. My weariness continued as she spoke/thought of the forgiveness she gave everyone around her, constantly, even after they had ruined everything. The best writing in the world cannot make up for when I feel talked down to, preached at, or otherwise ‘told’ that I should feel or do things a certain way. I can assure you I would have felt much differently than Louella in the end given all the circumstances.

That said my 3 star review should not stop anyone from reading this book. It’s an interesting history, about a relatively unwritten time period from the viewpoints of those freed during emancipation. In no way would I discredit the story told here and its importance. I just would have liked to have the last pieces of the story told with a little less required faith; and a little more common sense on how our leading lady and her ‘followers’ came to be where they ended up.

I realize now that this author is a devoted Christian herself and was merely justifying the actions as she finds reasonable. However, I would challenge any author (regardless of religious affiliation) writing a story based on historical fact to be careful how much of their own beliefs they inject to justify actions. Lastly, it was odd to me that freed slaves so readily put all their faith in the god of those who enslaved, oppressed, murdered, and tortured themselves and their loved ones. It just felt a bit too much for me to swallow in the end.

I would love to read a non-fiction book about Louella and William, and their socialist practices that built a beautiful sounding community.

Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.

This audio book was very well done. The narrators voice was engaging, speaking with a good pace. My favourite part of this audio book was the narrator singing! Honestly if you’re going to read this book, please listen to it. I enjoyed the story line even though it was paced slowly. But I learned something in this historical fiction book which, is one of my goals when I read.

This was a very interesting book, though it was very intense at certain points...however, the slaves did have to endure so many atrocities and there are only so many ways to depict that accurately. I wasn't a fan of how Louella seemed to treat the men as idiots. The narrator's voice, however, was absolutely perfect and made the story come alive. All in all, it was definitely worth the read to learn about this piece of history!

Thank you to netgalley and HarperCollins Christian Publishing | Thomas Nelson Fiction for allowing me access to this book. This was such a amazing book. I normally dont read books in this genre but I'm so glad I did.

Books like this are why I read like I do! I want new information, to be delighted by surprise and to know that sometime, somewhere right triumphed. . .for a moment or two, the heavens rolled open and poured out weighty approbation. . .it happened - really happened - for Louella Bobo Montgomery aka The American Queen .

I am so pleased that my time here didn't pass without me hearing and learning this story, based on true happenings that "history" forgot. Fortunately for us, there was a Ms. Patton who made sure her research survived in a corner of a library until the old historians shuffled off, and crews with a better-wiser view recovered it, the planets aligned and pointed to this Author, and Here We Are: I've read it, and recommend it to you, dear Reader, 5+ stars worth. Lucky me, I read (someone taught me!) and listened (technology affords possibility) to this one. Both are excellent formats. Again: Vanessa Miller - thank you for the education and efforts in getting this story out to us, out to me. I'll be thinking about it for a very long time.

You'll find yourself reading a hard story, a true tale for more than just these characters based on real people - examples of hard times and truths. More than a little guilt is felt for past crimes nationally tolerated. But then these persecuted wayfarers rise phoenix-like, above their challenges and circumstances and find a way, providing a message of hope that never grows old or unnecessary, in any age, era, or generation for every family or individual.

*A sincere thank you to Vanessa Miller, Thomas Nelson--Fiction, HarperCollins Christian Publishing and NetGalley for an ARC to read and independently review.* #TheAmericanQueen #NetGalley

I am an avid reader of historical fiction so I was pleased to have read a book about a real place and real people. Learning the beautiful history of my ancestors will always be right as rain in my book. Too often, the stories we know are not from the mouths of those who actually experienced them. I admire an author that takes time to research and passion to find stories that are necessary for the survival of our Black culture.

Vanessa Miller does a great job here in making readers understand how diligence, perseverance, and pride can always shift the narrative that seeks to discredit and dismantle the Black experience. By birthing the stories of Queen Luella and King William, The American Queen gives other Black people hope that in the face of adversity and pure hatred, they can still succeed and survive.

Aside from the fact that Williams writes a compelling story, she also creates complex and strong female leads that make me proud to be a Black woman. It is without a doubt one of my favorite ways to envision a Black female protagonist that takes no crap, gets the job done, and commands respect. Queen Luella is the epitome of Black excellence, grace, and beauty. Luella walks in history so the confident, strong, and wise Black women can run the world today.

If you enjoy a story that rewrites and shifts the narrative about Black history and culture, then this is a sure fire way to learn and be amazed at the strength of a people. Williams is a great storyteller and continues to amaze me with her work.

I eat everything Vanessa Miller writes up!! This is my third book by her and I could not put it down. The detail in the story made it come to life - it was as if I was watching a movie, or I was actually in the story.

I love historical fiction that brings to light obscure pieces of history. This book does just that by telling the story of Queen Louella and Happy Land. I wholeheartedly feel that the history of this group of emancipated American slaves who decide to start a community of their own is an important story, and I'm glad Vanessa Miller decided to tell it.

Despite the interesting history and excellent narration, I found it difficult to connect to the emotions of the characters. Personally, I would've preferred to have read their story written as pure nonfiction.

3.5 stars.

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins Christian Publishing for allowing me early access to the ARC audiobook edition of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book was phenomenal. I had not heard about the community to which this book refers and I am so glad I now have heard about it. There were topics that were a bit hard to hear but also are really important to speak about and not be forgotten. We can't hide from stories from a past we don't need to recreate.

This book wove together the stories of multiple characters in a way that was easy to follow. There wasn't a time when I was confused as to who was the voice speaking. I fully recommend this!

Four-Star Read
While the Happy Land was ruled by a king and a queen, I would argue that it was Queen Louella who was the driving force behind the creation of the Happy Land. Vanessa Miller did an exceptional job of writing Queen Louella as a strong woman with a dream and desire for more. As with most movements {I’m looking at you, Civil Rights Movement}, it is the women who are the organizers and force behind getting stuff done. And Queen Louella and her lady friends were dedicated to making sure things got done. Although, there were points where I was like, Louella, girl, you’re gonna get your man hurt or killed, I really enjoyed reading about this strong woman who refused to settle.

This story is full of love of self, family, and friends, with just enough romance to keep things interesting. I grieved with Queen Louella through her familial losses and celebrated with her through each triumph. I love how she was singularly focused on creating a community where everyone was treated with dignity and respect. From the offset, she made each person state what they could bring to the community. The stated mantra of the Happy Land was ‘All for one and one for all.’ Everyone in the Happy Land contributed to the whole, which created a self-sufficient community that thrived despite the hardships that many African Americans faced in the post-Civil War South.

Overflowing with faith and hope, this is a definite must-read for anyone who’s interested in American history. Queen Louella is a woman to be acknowledged and honored, for who she was, American royalty. Her selfless dedication to her people is to be applauded and remembered.

Narration
Angel Pean did an excellent job of narrating this story. Her voice was emotive and smooth. This is one of those books that works really well as an audiobook. In fact, I’d suggest the audiobook over a paperback because there are a few sections in the book where Queen Louella’s singing is mentioned and your mental voice just doesn’t do it justice. Hearing Angel give voice to the hymns is priceless.

Recommended For…
YA and faith-based book groups. I’d also recommend this book for reading groups interested in American history, diversity, and women’s issues. This book could also be used as a supplemental reading for an American history course.

Trigger Warnings
Racism, murder, child loss, and other injustices and violence associated with slavery.

This book is a must read!!!! Though the telling is fiction, the story is so beautifully and respectfully wrapped in the actual historical reality of the original people of Happy Land. I had never heard of this place prior to reading this book, so I'm very appreciative of the detailed author notes that were included. I think she did a great job connecting the pieces that could not be accounted for through the historical texts. This story was about people navigating their way through freedom and the woman that was both bold and resilient enough to see those dreams achieved. Queen Louella and her Kings, built a community of likeminded people and families who were able to experience a little piece of harmony and paradise after the harrows of enslavement. This book brought tears to my eyes at several points as the author evoked so many emotions within a short piece of work. The narrator was awesome and brought so much life into the characters. Angela Pean did the damn thing on this audio book with her angelic singing. I was mesmerized every single time. I will definitely be purchasing a physical copy of this book for my home shelf. This book should be added to school reading lists so they younger generation have better access to this part of their story.

Thank you Netgalley, Harper Collins Christian Publisihing, and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the audio Arc of this book.

Thank you NetGalley for this advance audiobook.
First off, the narrator did such an amazing job! What a joy to listen to her voice telling this story.
The novel is set in the time at the beginning of the end of slavery and the Reconstruction period onwards. Starts off with a bang and keeps going. Lincoln has given the Emancipation Proclamation speech and nothing is changing in the South. "Freed" slaves are sharecropping and the owners of the land are not honoring the agreements, so they are working just as hard, not getting fed, nor paid. This triggers our main character to leave, and the story tells of the journey to and creation of a happier place.
Why had I never heard of this group of people, and the place they made. History books and classrooms need to tell these stories. Louella, the main character of The American Queen, is the epitome of a queen, leading her community towards a better life and not only having to deal with outside forces, but also with the struggle of power between men and women within.
Based on a true, historical story, this is a must read for all.

This book dives deep into the aftermath of slavery, shining a light on the creation of Happy Land – a sanctuary brimming with love and hope.

I loved Louella’s unwavering devotion to her family & her hope for better. Vanessa Miller’s portrayal of Louella’s journey unveils a remarkable strength and resilience in the face of adversity, leaving an indelible mark on the reader’s heart.

Angel Pean's narration, particularly during the sung portions, added an immersive layer to the experience, enhancing my appreciation for the story. While the inclusion of Bible verses may not suit everyone's preferences, it did not detract significantly from my overall enjoyment of the book.

Despite these strengths, I felt a slight disconnect with both the characters and the storyline. This could be attributed to the expansive time span covered in the novel or the writing style, which, while engaging, didn’t fully immerse me in the characters’ inner worlds. Overall, it was an okay read, but it didn't quite reach the level of engagement I had hoped for.

Nonetheless, “The American Queen” remains a compelling read, offering valuable insights into a
an aspect of history and the enduring power of resilience and community.

Thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for an audiobook arc in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 Stars for audiobook. I appreciate historical fiction that brings us stories about little-known history in the US, especially black history. This is definitely a part of black history that is not widely known. The epilogue at the end explains the true facts that are the inspiration for this book. I actually found that part of the book to be the most interesting section.
I think the author does a good job at weaving a story that attempts to fill in the missing facts, to create this work of historical fiction. It does a good job. There are a lot of references to religion and God to tell the story, and this may be al little off-putting for some readers. The story is slow in some areas, while it's a solid story, it is not suspenseful or always attention-getting.
There are a lot of characters, and the narrator does a solid job of making each voice unique.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing the audiobook.

If you were to ask Google if the United States ever had a queen, inevitably it would say there was never an American monarchy, or it would reference Queen Elizabeth I from the time before independence. This novel tells a different story, the true story of Queen Luella who along with her husband, King William, ruled over the Kingdom of the Happy Land. This self-proclaimed kingdom was started in 1869 on 25 acres along the North and South Carolina border, purchased by a group of former slaves. The Kingdom lasted about 40 years and was based on a socialistic style of government. William and Louella were humble and very involved in the lives of their citizens. One touching scene in the book shows Louella's efforts to teach everyone to read.

"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes' and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."

Clara's eyes filled with wonder as Louella read the passage from the Bible. "I've never heard that before."

"And now you can read it for yourself." Louella handed Clara the Bible...

This verse must have meant so much to former slaves after all they endured. Louella wanted to make sure all her citizens could enjoy the freedom that knowing how to read can bring. Louella as a character takes quite an emotional journey from the hate she carries from her slavery days in Alabama to being a mother figure and Queen to the citizens of the Happy Land. Along the way, she suffers great personal loss and has to find the strength to carry on.

This is a slower book, but there are so many poignant and yet uplifting moments in the book. I found it to be an enjoyable read and I'm so glad to have learned about this lost chapter in history. I had to do a little more online reading after finishing this book. I'd love to look for the Happy Land next time I get near Henderson County, NC.

I liked the premise of the book and enjoyed it as an average reader. However, it didn’t quite work for me as a classroom teacher because of the amount of religion in the text. This type of text may work in a Catholic or other Christian school environment but not for a public school audience.

The American Queen is a captivating journey from the beginning to the very end, leaving me looking for more. This page turner was masterfully written with standout aspects including impeccable character development. Each character is meticulously crafted, with layers that unfold throughout the story. I loved eery part and quickly grew a love hate relationship with one character in particular.

Overall, the storyline itself is incredibly told with the information the author was given about facts,, drawing readers into a world that feels both familiar and captivating. With its captivating plot and relatable themes, it's a must-read for anyone looking for a deeply immersive historical fiction experience.

This is an important book. Before opening it, I had never heard of Louella Montgomery, an African American woman born into slavery in Mississippi, in the 1850s, and freed once slavery was abolished in 1865. The American Queen is a fictionalize story, based on what is known of Louella. Louella and her husband, Reverend William Montgomery have to leave Mississippi, as tensions grow following the recession and recovery of the Southern states after the Civil War. Together, they travel with other freed people through Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and finally to the South Carolina/North Carolina border, where they find a place to settle. During their journey their group grows from almost 40 to over 200 people. As they settle, they name their settlement, The Happy Land.

Louella is a force to be reckoned with. She faces hardship from the time she is born, to the time she passes, but with each tragedy, she continues to fight for human rights and women's rights. Ms. Miller's book ensures not only will Louella not be forgotten, but she will sit in an honored place in American history.

I received a complimentary copied of this book in both audio and ebook formats. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Both formats are a delight. Every time I started up the audio, I felt comforted and excited to hear about the next chapter in Louella's life.

This is a beautiful story to read about. It is very different from what I am used to reading, but I think it it so important to read about this time period and about this topic of slavery and the "freedom" that came after. I have so much respect for those who have been through this, and it is honestly beautiful to read about how strong they are to find and protect their real freedom.

Simply beautiful!

the audiobook was really good. the narrators voice was very pleasant and perfect for louella.

Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review

I just finished listening to this book. I don't even know what to say. This book tackles so many tough subjects in addition to the tough topic of slavery--loss, grief, abuse, doubting. All of the characters in the book are flawed in very human ways, and there are beautiful moments of redemption. To say that I enjoyed this book isn't quite right, but I am so glad that I listened to it. I learned, I cried, and I thought about some of my own times of grief.

The narration was beautifully done, and the historical notes were very helpful. Thank you Netgalley and publishers for this free audio-arc in exchange for my honest review.