This beautifully written novel blends fiction with the real histories of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt—three extraordinary women whose lives helped shape opportunities for future generations. Set beginning in 1880, during a period of profound change for Colored Americans, the story immediately captured my heart with its poignancy and depth.
Mary Church grows up in privilege as the daughter of a wealthy Black businessman, even attending a presidential inauguration with her father. Anna, a widowed schoolteacher, carries a far more complicated past, likely the daughter of her mother’s former enslaver. Though their backgrounds differ, both women arrive at Oberlin College with a shared passion for education and a fierce determination to create a better world for women of color.
Oberlin’s policies may have welcomed both white and Black students, but the reality on campus—and in the surrounding community—was far more complicated. Bias, exclusion, and constant scrutiny shadow Mary and Anna’s every step. Yet their strength, resilience, and unwavering belief in their own worth shine through. Their friendship becomes a force that not only sustains them but ultimately leaves a legacy that echoes far beyond their own lifetimes.
The author’s meticulous historical research brings this era vividly to life. At times, it felt as though I had stepped back into the late 19th century, witnessing firsthand the courage and determination required simply to claim an education, a voice, and a future.
This is a story that lingered with me long after I turned the final page—moving, inspiring, and deeply human.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.

What a privilege it is to read a story about women with such amazing accomplishments. If it weren’t for authors like Vanessa Miller the works of these women Mary Church Terrell, Ida Hunt Gibbs, and Anna Julia Cooper would be lost to some of us. This book was both educational and inspiring.

I chose this book because of the historical aspect. I must say that it has several different voices that it sometimes confused me.
However if this makes sense I thought the writing was done very well and I loved how it made the characters come alive for us.
This is a new to me author that has pulled me into her wonderful tale of 1880's Ohio.
I'm a native of Ohio so that's another reason I chose this story.
I'm giving this story 5 stars. I loved every minute of this novel.
It has a little of everything in it so that others can enjoy it as well. I hated to see it end it was so good.
I loved seeing how each character came from different backgrounds and was able to work together to get things done.
I especially liked this story since it was based off of real life people who went to Oberlin.
5 stars for a job well done. I wish that I could give it more.
I loved each of the girls and enjoyed in getting to know each one.
I loved the theme of new possibilities! There's no stopping change no matter how hard we try.
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

This was my first book by Vanessa Miller, and it totally captured my interest! I’d never heard of the two main characters, but certainly came to admire them as a result of this book. I’d heard of Oberlin College but hadn’t realized they opened in 1835 and one of their purposes was to educate white and black students side by side. That was astonishing to me, and admirable. I’d like to read another book by this author.

I received this book from the publisher via net galley in exchange for an honest review. Four and 1/2 stars.

The 1880's was a difficult time for women of color seeking a better life and an education in post-Civil War America. This story is based on real life events in the lives of Mary, Ida Anna. They are from different backgrounds but find a common ground. They learn from each other, support each other and find their way through the formidable years as they step out into a world filled with prejudice.
Ms. Miller's research and wonderful use of prose grab the reader attention and heart. Her descriptions allow the reader to see life as though looking through the eyes of her characters.

This was an impressive novel I knew nothing about these three ladies an fact my knowledge of American history is sparse but this book was very enlightening.
The things that happened were awful the ways that people were treated were terrible and what is frightening to me is that in certain ways things are not much different now.
The fights that these three ladies went through along with many others to have their rights acknowledged is amazing and they need never to be forgotten

The Ladies Hall is the kind of historical fiction that doesn’t just revisit the past—it asks you to sit with it, wrestle with it, and recognize its echoes today. Set at Oberlin College in the late 19th century, the novel follows three young Black women navigating an institution that prides itself on progress while still quietly enforcing the same barriers found everywhere else.
What stands out most is how Miller handles contradiction. Oberlin is technically inclusive, yet the women constantly encounter subtle and overt resistance. That tension fuels the story, giving it a steady emotional undercurrent rather than relying on dramatic spikes. The obstacles feel real because they are often small, cumulative, and exhausting—much like they would have been in reality.
The characters are drawn with care, particularly in how they balance ambition with vulnerability. They’re not written as symbols or ideals; they doubt themselves, clash with each other, and grow in uneven ways. Their friendship is not instant or effortless, which makes it far more compelling. When they do come together, it feels earned rather than inevitable.
Miller’s prose leans accessible rather than lyrical, but it works in the book’s favor. The story moves with purpose, never getting bogged down in excessive detail, yet still offering enough historical texture to ground the reader. You get a clear sense of place without feeling like you’re reading a textbook.
If there’s a weakness, it’s that the themes—education as empowerment, unity across differences, the cost of progress—are sometimes spelled out more directly than necessary. The story is strong enough that it doesn’t always need that extra emphasis. Still, the clarity makes the book approachable for a wide audience, which seems intentional.
Overall, The Ladies Hall is a thoughtful and engaging novel that highlights a lesser-explored corner of history while telling a story that feels relevant now. It’s less about grand, sweeping change and more about the persistence required to create it—and that focus is what gives the book its staying power.

Historical, atmospheric, and richly detailed, *The Ladies Hall* explores ambition, identity, and resilience within a tightly woven story of secrets, power, and societal expectations.

Wow! What a wonderful and inspirational book! The author did an excellent job portraying the issue of the philosophy that guided Oberlin College in regards to allowing black and white students to learn together.

The characters are written brilliantly! Each of them grew in so many ways as the book progressed. At times it seemed as if Mary, Anna and Ida were going to give up but they never did. They valiantly fought for their rights and blazed a trail that is memorable in history!

I was provided a complimentary ARC copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

THE LADIES HALL by VANESSA MILLER is an historical fiction novel based on the lives of three incredible women from different backgrounds who excelled in their studies at the multi gender, multi race, Oberlin College in the 1880’s, who worked tirelessly to promote acceptance and voting rights for people of colour, particularly for women.
It is an emotional story and the author has done a great deal of research into theit lives and into the history of the time.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

She smoked this!! This was a much needed read especially with everything going on in the world at this time. Women will always be at the forefront of change!

This read was very well researched by the author. Three women, I had never heard of them previously, but got to know them quite well through the research done here. Be sure to read the author's notes.
Breaking ground in the early 1880's three women embark on their college careers, by entering Oberlin College, and being the first.
We see first hand the challenges these women face, and the outcome of their tenacity to achieve what others are determined they don't.
There is a lot of historical fiction here, and I enjoyed the fact that it is based on fact.
We get to have relationships with Mary, Anna and Ida, and loved the epilogue.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

Amazing read!!!! Vanessa Miller is one of my favorite Historical Fiction authors.

The Ladies Hall is so inspirational for all. Mary initially annoyed me with her perceived entitlement as a privileged young black woman. However, when it all clicks for her, she makes me proud. She took a stand against the inequality and mistreatment of the black students. Anna took my heart though. I could see myself in her. As an enslaved girl until the age of 6, She surpassed her own wildest dreams.
This is. a must read body of work to remind you why education is important and those who paved the way for us to become lifelong learners.
5 stars!!

I truly appreciate NetGalley for exposing me to this magnificent book. It details the true lives of three Black women who attended Obelin College in the late 1800s. Their struggle becomes ours as we follow them through racism and misogyny. As time goes on, we celebrate their many accomplishments as women who are Black. The author, Vanessa Miller, does explain the few liberties she took in writing the book related to the timeline primarily, but there is sourced evidence that these women were foremothers of a much larger movement. This would be a wonderful book club addition - and hopefully a movie!!

Once I read the final words of this novel, I had to sit quietly and absorb the message. It is an important one, and one the world over needs to hear, I believe.

Events that followed the American Civil War that supposedly freed the Black slaves was only a small start. The many years that came thereafter were still a brutal, cruel struggle as illustrated in the pages of The Ladies Hall by Vanessa Miller.

The serious issues regarding slavery and the ongoing climb up the steep and slippery sloped mountain to justice and equality was fought in blood, sweat and tears, as well as many words. We see this through the eyes of three, true-life stalwart and determined ladies, their names that should not be forgotten. They were Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper and Ida Gibbs Hunt.

In fact, in an addendum of this book it mentions a book that Anna wrote later in life, and a quotation about freedom, which is in US passports! I found this wonderful.

Moving on, these ladies, I discovered through reading this book, worked tirelessly and bravely despite the many obstacles stacked against them, namely because of their gender and skin color. But thank God, for them!

It will be noted that the terms Miller uses like 'Colored' and "Black" are not as insults nor to give offence, rather they were terms used in the 1880's era. Thus, they reflect the time frame of this historical novel that has been set mostly in the town of Oberlin, Ohio and at Oberlin College.

Some of the story will bring you to weeping - at least it did for me. The trial and joys created swimming emotions. I'm real glad though, that I had opportunity to read this work, which, I believe, has been well researched, bringing its awareness of the struggles that many whites would never even think could happen, or at least admit to.

I feel that this book would bring many folks everywhere encouragement and hope to press on in ones' still current color struggles. I sure hope so!

I was well satisfied and grateful to have been able to read and review this book. It's been one of those books where I wish there could be more stars to give but the highest rating is 5, and that is a lot. Therefore, I give it a 5-Star rating!

~ Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger ~

May 2026

Disclaimer: "I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

First of all, thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson publishing for the free ebook to read. I am excited to give my honest review.

I applied for this book because it was not a topic I have read too much about. I had not heard of the three women who were the focus of the book and wanted to learn more. I’m so glad I got approved!

Vanessa Miller does a fantastic job of describing the events and reactions of the characters in a way that makes the reader feel something. Some of the scenes were so heartbreaking in the way these women were treated. But the inspiring part was the way they never gave up. They were determined to succeed and make a difference, and they did. I also like that she includes a section which explains her choices of where to include certain events and why they may not have been the exact timeline of the real events. This was not required, but it really shows how much she wanted to honor these women and their success despite their circumstances in the best way possible.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about the history of America and the way these women rose above the hatred.

I fell in love with Vanessa Miller’s American Queen so was so excited to read Ladies Hall. This privileged white girl learned so much about the perspective of my black sisters, what they had to go through in the 19th century, and how strong and tenacious they were and are! I loved learning about Oberlin College, its mission of social justice, and the impact of Mary, Anna, and Ida. This historical record is so important to us today, as we continue to try to make a difference through education and example! Finding out about Anna’s words in my passport brought goosebumps! Now, if we can live up to them!! I highly recommend this book - the storyline is compelling and thought provoking!!!

Based on real-life historical figure, Anna and Mary meet at Oberlin College, where they are one of only a few Black women enrolled in the 4-year degree program in the last 1800s. Though Mary is from a wealthy family, while Anna is from a poor background, they become friend as they both faces challenges as they try to fight for equal rights for both women and Blacks. Very inspiring story.

Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper and Ida Gibbs Hunt are three intelligent, driven young women who began their journey to change the world for black folks in the late 1800’s and long into the 20th century. They began their lifelong friendship at Oberlin College, one of the first to admit back students, (1835), and women, (1837).

Mary, Anna and Ida come from disparate backgrounds. Mary’s the daughter of a wealthy, black businessman, Anna was enslaved until she was 6 years old. Recently widowed after only two years of marriage, she lives with her single mother who works as a maid; quite possibly for her white father who refuses to acknowledge parentage. Ida hails from a wealthy family where her father is a successful lawyer. These three young women room in THE LADIES HALL, the residence for women on campus. The Hall is home to about 100 girls, 6 of whom are black; the other 94 white.

All three of the women are excellent students and chose to enroll in the Classical Gentlemen’s Course that will yield them a 4 year BA, rather than a two year certificate awarded to those who follow the Ladies Course. Beginning with day one check-in, this amazing trio are met with prejudice; bold, angry and persistent.

Leading the prejudice is the character Suzie McFarland. She is extremely offensive but used well by author, Vanessa Miller, to bring awareness to the issues between black and white people. Her storyline is shows a path of understanding, vital to progress and change.

The bulk of this story follows the three FMC’s during their time at Oberlin. Lives at home are included to create well rounded characters that readers can easily relate to and cheer for. Author, Vanessa Miller has done an exhaustive, deep dive into these characters lives. Most all of the events told are true and verified. Readers can find her research and fictionalized information in the detailed Author’s Note at the conclusion of the narrative. It’s a compelling insight into the lives of these remarkable women; far beyond their time at Oberlin.

Advancing the lives of black women is the primary theme of this book. In the daily experiences faced by this trio, we see multiple challenges that impact their goals: inequality between the races, inequality between the sexes, inequality of law enforcement, inadequate adherence to change in laws and more.

There are no sexual scenes nor foul language in this book. Violence exists in the historical accounting of events; some are shocking but there’s no inappropriate descriptive prose. Faith elements are present in both dialogue and actions taken by the characters, without readers being preached at.

Highly recommended for readers who enjoy Historical Fiction, Black Women’s Fiction, Race Relations, Women’s Politics and those who appreciate strong women in well written stories📚

I received a copy for review purposes. All opinions are honest and mine alone.
Read and Reviewed from an eARC via Kindle with thanks to the publisher and author.

Historical fiction is my jam. I love reading about people and places forgotten by time, especially when they’re Black women. This book highlighted to Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs. I have to admit, the only Ida I knew from that era was Ida B. Wells, so it was a delight to meet another. I think this book would appeal to fans of the "Suffs" musical or those familiar with Cooper’s "A Voice from the South." It also connects well with "Edmonia" by Brianne Baker, which is also set at Oberlin. The story quickly drew me in and made me care about the trio and their accomplishments. I also loved the author’s note and the references at the end. I’d recommend it to scholars of American history, women’s history, and Black feminism.

Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is one of those books that stays with you long after you turn the last page.
Vanessa Miller brings the stories of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt to life in a way that is both beautifully written and deeply moving. Their determination to pursue an education and refuse to be silenced in the face of racism and sexism is inspiring, heartbreaking, and incredibly relevant even today.
I especially appreciated learning about these remarkable women through historical fiction. It reminded me how many important stories have been left out of the history books and how powerful it is when they're finally told.
I will absolutely be recommending The Ladies Hall to both of my book clubs. It is rich with history, resilience, courage, and discussion-worthy themes that will make for incredible conversations.
A powerful and unforgettable read.

Vanessa Miller is an autobuy author for me and the brilliance of this book is just another reason why. She is one of the best authors of historical fiction I have ever read.

The lives of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper and Ida Gibbs Hunt have been brought to life by Vanessa Miller in the most beautiful way. We see how Mary learned at an early age that she was a descendant of slaves and how she realized that she was in fact completely different from her classmates. I can imagine this sparked something in Mary and was a catalyst for her future achievements.

While this book was beautifully written it was hard to digest in parts knowing some of us have come so far yet still have to fight for basic human rights.

Some events in this book speak to the current state of our world where men would like to take away women's rights to work and earn equal pay, equality will be a forever fight unfortunately on all fronts.

Side note:
Susie and her minions would have had to see me outside with her hateful racist behind!

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio,
Thomas Nelson Fiction and Netgally for the ARC/ALC.

Historical fiction based on the lives of three black women, Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt, whose resiliency and determination showed their college mates and the world they would make it a better place for black Americans.

In 1880s Ohio, Mary Terrell, Ida Gibbs Hunt and Anna Cooler are accepted into the Bachelor of Arts program ( also known as the “gentleman’s course of study”) at Oberlin, they have little in common with their fellow mostly white students. While Oberlin had a tradition of accepting black students, this did translate into acceptance in the hearts and minds of some students.

Mary and Ida also don’t have much in common either with Anna - except the color of their skin and their passion for education. Mary and Ida came from luxury with wealthy fathers, while Anna was a school teacher supporting herself as well with a second job to pay tuition and whose father was probably her formerly enslaved mother’s owner. While Mary and Ida try to ingratiate themselves with the white students, Anna is more pragmatic and spent her early days at Oberlin aligning herself with the black community. However the discrimination they faced often seemed impossible to overcome. After a summer home, Mary returns determined to not give up and over the course of the next two years achieves her stated goals

The story actually focuses only two POVs - Mary’s and Anna’s - the author notes later since Mary and Ida came from similar backgrounds, she wanted to use one voice for both Mary and Ida and chose Mary. Mary’s struggles were beautifully portrayed and gracefully done. I loved how Anna got the mission trip to London but Mary chose the one working at home. Anna deserved that. I also loved the when cruel Suzie cried after Mary finished her poem. A fine story of three women working to make a difference.

I gave this book five stars for bringing to our awareness three black women who deserve to be remembered not erased from history - that’s why historical fiction is so important, for the author’s crafting a story that was realistic and paced beautifully, and for holding my attention until the very end. Well done!

My thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for granting me access to this ARC.

I instantly fell in love with Mary and Anna. Their stories were so inspiring. I especially loved that they came from two different backgrounds yet faced the same challenges once they arrived at school. I truly did not want the book to end. I really appreciated the author's note outlining what details she changed and providing the reasoning. Highly recommend this book.

These three women meet in 1884 at Oberlin college. In my opinion, these were three black women who blazed the trail for us all. They fight for equality for women and the black race. I enjoyed their friendship and the details of their lives. Truly inspiring. Highly recommend.

I was blessed with an ALC and an ARC. Thank you, NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.