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.

I must say when Vanessa writes it imma read because this read was so inspirational to see what these ladies Anna and Mary accomplished just for women like us to succeed in life.

One thing I love about Vanessa Miller’s writing is that she knows how to bring Black women’s contributions and legacy to life. I experienced this after reading The Filling Station, so I’m grateful to have read this book, especially during today’s conversations surrounding Black girl magic, excellence, and the many ways Black women continue to shape history.

First, this book touched on several topics, such as resilience, educational legacy, racial and gender equality, and intersectionality. I think this book was layered because it not only focused on the segregation Black women faced at Oberlin College and their fight for educational equality, but it also explored the intersection of the three women’s different socioeconomic backgrounds. Although Mary, Anna, and Ida came from different family and economic circumstances, Miller showed how those differences shaped their college experiences. At the same time, each of them still faced racial/gender barriers and continued to fight for change.

I also appreciated how Miller highlighted their involvement in the suffrage movement and showed how their voices were treated compared to their white counterparts. In high school, I remember learning about the suffrage movement in a way that mainly centered white women, so I appreciated seeing Black women’s contributions highlighted throughout the story. I know Vanessa mentioned in her author’s note that she chose not to focus on Ida because she felt her story closely mirrored Mary’s, but her contribution is still inspiring. As a reader, though, I wish we had seen more of Ida’s contributions throughout the book. At the same time, it encouraged me to do more of my own research about her life.

Another critique I had was that the timeline felt a little abrupt at times, especially during Anna’s time in Paris. I wish that part of the story had been developed a bit more. Overall, I loved reading stories about us and how Black women have continued to contribute, pioneer, and challenge systems throughout history. It was inspiring to see how the impact of Mary, Anna, and Ida continues to resonate in conversations about educational access, equality, and opportunity today.

The Ladies Hall by Vanessa Miller is my 3rd read and first ARC by this author. I appreciated the level of research and integration of history into this work. This story takes place in the late 1800s and right after the Emancipation Proclamation. It is the story of 3 young black women and their time as trailblazers at Oberlin College. There is no browbeating, just the perspective of young women navigating life and college in the aftermath of slavery in America. For me, the flow and pace of the story made it a book I’d recommend readers to add to their TBR. It’s uncanny how relevant some of their struggles are in comparison to today’s political climate. However, the story of Mary, Anna, Ida, and the Ladies Hall gives us hope for how determination and sheer will can create space for change in hearts and communities. Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was such a powerful and inspiring historical fiction novel. I loved how Vanessa Miller brought these remarkable women to life and showed both the challenges they faced and the incredible strength they carried. The story was emotional, eye-opening, and full of hope, even during the hardest moments. Knowing it was based on the real lives of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt made it even more impactful. It’s a beautifully written story about perseverance, friendship, and leaving a lasting legacy that I won’t forget.

I had never heard of the three women that was mentioned in this book and the author did an excellent job informing us what they did together at an college (Oberlin) that said they were not segregated, however act differently. These ladies did some amazing things while attending that college and continued after they graduated. From voting rights, women rights, and providing education was what the fought for in the era that they were living in. I will always remember these ladies!!!!!!

Great book with a dumb cover/name. It’s the true story of the first three black women to get bachelor’s degrees from Oberlin College in the 1880s, somewhat fictionalized for narrative purposes. I learned a lot and it’s highly readable, but from the cover and title I would have thought it was some sort of historical romance/women’s light historical fiction rather than the heavily researched work the author actually created. I will be recommending this book to many people and several book clubs, with the recommendation to ignore the title and the cover art.

I received a free e-copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

I really like Vanessa Miller's writing! She has the talent of taking historical events and making them accessible to readers like me. I felt like I was right there at Oberlin College with these three remarkable ladies. This story takes place in the 1880's and involves three young women eager for change in their lives. The ladies are Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper and Ida Gibbs Hunt. They fought prejudice, both because of the color of their skin and because they were women. I enjoyed reading about their friendship and how they leaned on each other no matter what. I can't wait to see what Vanessa Miller writes about next!

A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Historical fiction based on real people and events is currently one of my favorite genres, and The Ladies Hall had everything I love about it. Vanessa Miller brings the lives of Mary Church Terrell, Anna J. Cooper, and Ida Gibbs to the page, three incredible Black women who form a lifelong friendship while attending Oberlin College in 1884.

I loved learning about these women, their different backgrounds, and the impact they each made throughout their lives. Their story explores friendship, education, racism, sexism, and classism as they navigate a world determined to place limitations on them while they fight to make their voices heard.

One of my favorite things about historical fiction is when a book inspires me to learn more about the real people behind the story. This book definitely did that for me! I was so fascinated by Anna J. Cooper that I immediately went and ordered her book because now I need to know MORE!

Vanessa Miller is truly an incredible author, and she is just as amazing as a person. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting her twice, and both experiences have made me appreciate her even more. She has such a beautiful way of bringing history to life and creating stories that pull me in completely.

This novel had me so emotional and listening to what these women went through in 1884 was heartbreaking. Oberlin College has three women who each have their own struggles. They are vocal and use their voices to stand up for women’s suffrage and civil rights. May, Anna and Ida, black women fight for everything. One is about to enter a men’s four-year bachelors degree after testing and having someone believe in her.
A very moving novel and loved seeing strong women stand up for their belief system and their rights.

The Ladies Hall by Vanessa Miller is a stirring historical novel that brings renewed attention to three remarkable Black women whose courage, intellect, and determination helped shape the long fight for racial and gender equality in America. Those women are Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt. Their story is primarily set at Oberlin College in the 1880s. This story is especially powerful because it centers Mary Church Terrell as the narrative anchor.
The Ladies Hall is an inspiring and thoughtful work of historical fiction. Readers interested in Black women’s history, educational Justice, and stories of friendship rooted in purpose will find much to appreciate.. the novel’s message is clear and timely: equality is not granted simply because an institution claims to believe in it. It must be demanded, defended, and lived into by people willing to endure discomfort for the sake of a broader future.

A moving novel based on the true stories of Anna Cooper, Mary Church and Ida Gibbs three women of color who attended Oberlin College in 1884, breaking down barriers and fighting for a fair education.

The novel primarily follows Mary and Anna, two women from very different backgrounds, both determined to make a difference and receive a respected college education. The novel follows not just the challenges faced at the college, but also in their personal lives. I was initially drawn to the story knowing very little about the background of the story but found the premise interesting, and my grandmother attended Oberlin College in the 1950s.

Well written novel based on real events and people, my heart went out to Anna for her courage in pursuing college and a life away from where she grew up. Not letting the past stand in the way of a bright future. Mary had her own struggles too, away from where her family name carried more weight, I admired how she didn't give up and kept reaching for her goals.

Overall, an inspiring read, that brought to life the challenges faced by Ida, Anna, and Mary during their time at Oberlin College. I especially enjoyed the ending, learning more about their lives after college, and later returning for advanced degrees as well. Moving and inspiring historical read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Ladies Hall is more than a historical novel—it is a powerful reminder that courage, perseverance, and unity can create lasting change, even in the face of relentless opposition. Inspired by the real lives of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt, this novel beautifully captures the determination of Black women who refused to let society define the limits of their potential.

What resonated with me most was the uphill battle these women faced every single day. Although Oberlin College welcomed women and Black students on paper, the reality they encountered was filled with prejudice, isolation, and constant pressure to prove they deserved to be there. The contrast between Mary's privileged upbringing and Anna's struggle to support herself while pursuing an education made their friendship even more meaningful. Despite their different backgrounds, they found common ground in their shared belief that education could change not only their own lives but the lives of those who would come after them.

I found myself deeply connected to this story because the characters never allowed hardship to define who they were. They acknowledged the pain, discrimination, and resistance they experienced, but they refused to let those obstacles determine their future. Instead, every setback became another reason to persevere. Their resilience reminded me that true strength is not the absence of struggle but the decision to keep moving forward despite it.

The novel also highlights the importance of community and allyship. Progress was never achieved by one person alone; it came from people encouraging one another, standing together, and believing that lasting change was possible even when the world around them suggested otherwise. That message feels just as relevant today as it did in the 1880s.

Miller's research shines throughout the novel, blending historical fact with compelling storytelling in a way that makes these remarkable women feel authentic and relatable. Knowing that the story is based on real trailblazers made their accomplishments even more inspiring and reminded me of the sacrifices many made so future generations could pursue opportunities that were once denied to them.

The Ladies Hall is a moving story of resilience, friendship, and hope. It left me with a deep appreciation for the women who refused to let injustice define their lives and instead chose to create a legacy of excellence. This is a book that inspires readers to keep pushing forward, support one another, and remember that meaningful change is often built through persistence in the face of adversity. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction that educates, inspires, and leaves a lasting impact.

Thank you to BRBF and Thomas Nelson Fiction for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I sat in on a panel Vanessa Miller spoke on at BRBF 2026 and hearing her describe *The Ladies Hall* made me so excited and intrigued to read this story. I flew through this book in just over a day and I’m so happy to now know of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt: three inspiring and resilient women who embodied what it means to fight for equality.

I was fully engaged in the women’s experiences trying to earn their degree and chase their dreams just like their fellow students only to repeatedly be disrespected simply for being Black women. For as much despair and anger this story contained, there were just as many moments of community, resilience, and determination to create true equality.

It’s obvious extensive research was done for this book because I truly learned SO much and I deeply appreciate Vanessa Miller for squeezing in as much as she could. This is history that needs to be shared and never forgotten. That fact alone should be enough reason for you to pick up this story but know that you will walk away feeling so inspired and reinvigorated for the current time because as we know, our work isn’t done.

I strongly recommend this book to anyone who breathes air because more people should know about Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt.

The Ladies Hall completely pulled me in. I came for the story, but stayed for the resilience, sisterhood, family legacy, and the fight for educational equality at Oberlin College.

I closed this book feeling inspired, emotional, and so thankful for the women who refused to accept the limits placed on them.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Run, don't walk, if you love historical fiction that makes you feel something.

#ARCReading #Bookstagram #HistoricalFiction #TheLadiesHall #VanessaMiller #BlackWomenInHistory

Once again she has written a beautiful historical fiction. This book makes you feel everything and so empowered! As someone from nc I enjoy learning about ms. Anne cooper

Review of Advanced Copy received via NetGalley - Releases August 11, 2026

Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice: 0/5 🧼

Summary: Set in the 1880s, this follows three remarkable Black women at Oberlin College as they challenge racism, sexism, and the barriers standing between them and equality.

Thoughts: I was absolutely blown away by this book. I was excited to pick it up, but I expected it to be one I would take my time with. The book had other plans because I could not put it down. The plot itself isn’t especially complicated, but the writing is so dynamic and engaging that I never wanted to step away.

The characters have incredible depth, and the discoveries they make throughout their journeys feel so genuine and earned. I was highlighting passages from the very beginning in the author’s note and didn’t stop until the final page because there were so many impactful thoughts I wanted to remember.

What a beautifully executed story. The women who inspired it have truly been honored through these pages, and the amount of research the author poured into bringing their stories to life is nothing short of remarkable. I cannot recommend this one enough.

Thank you to the author and publisher for providing an advanced copy. My feedback is given voluntarily and honestly.

Quotes I loved (picking this small amount was incredibly difficult): “Two women, one Black, one White, discovering connection across the color lines that society had drawn between them. No grand speeches were made, no thunderclaps rang out, just a simple act as natural as a fish slipping through water. It shouldn’t have been remarkable, but in a world still learning to see clearly, it was.”

“You can’t fight this kind of evil with hate. You fight it with your intellect . . . You fight it by being better than what they say you are.”

“You won’t reach everyone. Your job is to find reasonable-minded people. Very rarely will you convince a person who hates you that you’re not their enemy. But for those who have been told that they should hate you, with no real validity to the argument—those are the people whose hearts and minds you’ll win over by being who you naturally are.”

“…and I will make something of myself. You and your precious children will only be a footnote in history, but this world will know that I was here. I can promise you that.”

I love historical reads, and The Ladies Hall captured my attention from the very first pages. One of the book’s greatest strengths is how authentically it remains within its historical time period. The author has clearly invested significant effort into creating a setting that feels genuine, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the era. The attention to historical detail enhances the story without overwhelming it, making for an engaging and enjoyable reading experience. For anyone who appreciates historical fiction, this book offers a rich and compelling journey into the past.
Vanessa Miller has now firmly secured a place at the top of my favourite authors list. Her ability to bring history to life through vivid storytelling, authentic characters, and emotional depth is truly remarkable. Few authors can transport a reader so completely into another time and place, but Vanessa Miller accomplishes this with ease. After reading The Ladies Hall, I can confidently say that I will be seeking out more of her work in the future.
Reading the reviews before reading this beautiful book only highlights how differently readers can experience the same story. While every reader brings their own expectations and perspectives, I found myself completely immersed in the author’s storytelling. The rich historical setting, well-developed characters, and emotional depth created a reading experience that stayed with me long after I turned the final page. Sometimes the greatest joy comes from discovering a book for yourself and allowing the story to speak directly to you, regardless of the opinions of others.

I enjoyed this book and learning of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper and Ida Gibbs Hunt and their connection to Oberlin College. I am loving these historical fiction novels and thanks Vanessa Miller for bringing history to life.

#BookReview The Ladies Hall a novel by Vanessa Miller 👒📚

A historical fiction piece about three real extraordinary women fighting for the rights of African American people in the late 1800’s. Mary Church Terrell, Anna J. Cooper and Ida Gibbs were Civil Rights Leaders and Activists
Literally that left the blueprint for the fight for equality. 🟰

The first Black women to earn bachelors degrees and Master’s Degrees from Oberlin College an abolitionist college within an abolitionist town. The college admitted Black students providing them the same education among white students.

Mary was a wealthy in a time when most Black folks were barely getting by yet she used her status and connections to focus on anti lynching campaigning throughout the country. Anna was a young widow attending college to advance her opportunities. While the women came from very different backgrounds, they were united in this efforts to fight for women’s right to vote. This novel illustrates the obstacles of the time and how the women remained steadfast in their efforts to make this country better for their people. ✊🏾

We see the desire for belonging in a world determined to make Black peoples feel like they don’t belong. The heaviness of the silent suffering so many Black peoples endured in those times and even still experience today. 🖤

Vanessa Miller is the queen of historical fiction.
S/O to BRBF Virtual Book Tour for this ARC copy ✨

Trigger Warnings: Discrimination references including lynchings and racism

Preorder your copy from your favorite Black bookstore or other retailers like Bookshop.org, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. And don't forget, the audiobook and e-book are also available for preorder. This is the perfect way to support this brilliant author! 👑

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5️⃣

Favorite Quotes:
👒 “We win when we lift as we climb.”
👒 “We carry too much shame that doesn’t belong to us.”
👒 “No man deserved to be owned by another.”
👒 “There was no comfort or reprieve from weariness for Colored women in America.”
👒 “Sorrow didn’t care which door it knocked on.”
👒 “Silence was a kind of surrender.”
👒 “These systems aren’t set up for us to win.”
👒 “Knowledge opened doors.”
👒 “In Ladies Hall, their first battleground and truest home.”


@authorvanessamiller @thomasnelsonfiction

#VanessaMiller #TheLadiesHall

*The Ladies Hall* is a beautifully written historical novel that combines emotional depth, rich historical detail, and unforgettable characters into a truly inspiring story. Vanessa Miller brings the past vividly to life, crafting a narrative that explores faith, resilience, friendship, and the enduring strength of women in the face of adversity.

Miller's prose is warm and engaging, creating an immersive atmosphere that makes the setting feel authentic and lived-in. The characters are thoughtfully developed, each with their own hopes, struggles, and personal growth, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their journeys. The relationships at the heart of the novel add warmth and sincerity, while the historical backdrop provides both context and depth.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its balance of heartfelt storytelling and meaningful themes. The novel thoughtfully explores courage, compassion, forgiveness, and the power of community, offering an uplifting message without sacrificing emotional authenticity. The pacing is steady and rewarding, allowing both the characters and the story to develop naturally.

Overall, *The Ladies Hall* is a compelling and memorable read that showcases Vanessa Miller's gift for creating inspiring historical fiction. Fans of character-driven novels with rich historical settings and powerful emotional journeys will find this to be a deeply satisfying and rewarding book.

Two words… SIMPLY AMAZING!

This book, based on the actual lives of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper and Ida Gibbs Hunt. Three women from different backgrounds, met during the 1880s while attending Oberlin College in Ohio. Together, they experienced racism, sexism and discrimination, but they were determined to not only get an education while making a change.

This book drew an array of emotions while reading. From the treatment of blacks in the South, to denying well deserved rights based on the color of their skin. It also inspired me to read more Historical Fiction, in order to educate myself and others; as well as immediately download A Voice From The South.

I highly recommend this amazing book by @authorvanessamiller and hope that someone picks it up for a movie adaptation.

I am a historical fiction reader above all. This book had me in such a chokehold. All I could do was cry, laugh, and gasp while reading this. I love this author. She is just an amazing person. She writes with her heart and soul. The research she does for her books, shows in the writing. I felt as though I was right there with these FMCs. Nothing could pull me away from this book until the last page.

Thank you, Thomas Nelson Fiction for the gifted digital ARC of The Ladies Hall by Vanessa Miller.

This book is a fictionalized account of the first three Black women to receive four year degrees from Oberlin College.

In September 1880, Mary Church, Ida Gibbs, and Anna Julia Cooper began their first year at Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio. Oberlin was known as a progressive abolitionist town and the college admitted Black and White students of both genders. Although this was the policy of the school, not all students embraced this mission. Some classmates were hostile and did not want to see them as equals, while other classmates became friends and allies. Supportive faculty members encouraged the women in their academic pursuits as well as their leadership in student organizations. Mary, Ida and Anna each worked hard to exceed all expectations. College was just the beginning of their accomplishments and legacy of activism and excellence.

While the timeline of this book is the late 1880’s, there are themes that are still relevant today including the pressure of being the first and how it could affect those who follow, intersectionality, respectability politics and allyship. These topics could spark interesting discussion in a book club.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction that centers unsung notable Black figures.

I am extremely honored to have had the opportunity to read The Ladies Hall written by Vanessa Miller, thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishing with the promise of a written honest review.
In the late 1880’s, it was difficult enough being a woman and receiving deserved respect, however it was very difficult for women of color. Based on the true lives of Anna Cooper, Ida Gibbs and Mary Church Terrell this novel takes us to Oberlin College in Oberlin Ohio, one of the first colleges to accept Black students. The ladies begin their important fight for equal rights as both women and Black Women by enrolling in a “Gentleman’s Course of Study”; a Bachelor or Arts Program which was a four year course as opposed to the “Ladies” program which was only two years.
A strong and beautiful friendship, beautifully researched and a much needed reminder for us ALL.
I blew through this book in a single day and loved every word. What a gorgeous read!

Thank you to Vanessa Miller and Thomas Nelson for the ARC I received at the Black Romance Book Festival, and thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the accompanying audiobook. I love immersive reading, listening to the audiobook while following along with the physical book, and this was the perfect book to experience that way.

I absolutely love historical fiction, and once again, Vanessa Miller did not disappoint. I especially enjoy reading about strong Black women who challenged injustice and changed history. Before reading The Ladies Hall, I knew nothing of Mary Church Terrell, Anna Julia Cooper, and Ida Gibbs Hunt. Their stories inspired me so much that I immediately wanted to learn more about their lives after finishing the book. Their courage, resilience, and belief in the power of education were truly remarkable.

Meeting Vanessa twice has been such an honor. She has one of the kindest souls and is simply easy to love. I’d gladly be her “assistant” anytime she needs someone to hand out flyers at a book festival! If you ever have the opportunity to attend one of her book tours, do yourself a favor and go. You won’t regret it.

The Ladies Hall is an inspiring tribute to women whose stories deserve to be told, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction.