The Ladies Hall by Vanessa Miller

 

1880s, Ohio. When Mary and Anna enter the Bachelor of Arts program, also known as the "gentlemen's course" of study, at Oberlin College, they have little in common other than the color of their skin and their passion for education.

While Mary was raised in luxury, attending presidential inaugurations with her wealthy father, Anna is a schoolteacher, likely the daughter of her enslaved mother's former owner, and works a second job to pay for her room and board. But despite their differences, both women share strength, ambition, and a deep yearning for change. If they can bridge the gaps between them, they just might build a lasting legacy.

From its earliest days in the 1830s, Oberlin College admitted men and women, white and Black students. Though the doors are officially open, school policy cannot change the hearts of classmates who refuse to see a woman, and especially a Black woman, excel. Despite constantly being forced to prove themselves, the women triumphantly overcome every obstacle and push through their pain. And as the world evolves around them, Mary and Anna persevere to build a legacy of success and excellence.

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About The Author

 

Vanessa Miller is a celebrated USA Today bestselling author, whose prolific body of work spans over 50 titles that explore deep themes of redemption, resilience, and faith—often spotlighting strong Black women during pivotal moments of history.

Miller’s book, The American Queen won the prestigious Christy Award, the Audie Award and was the 2024 American Fiction Award winner for Historical Fiction. The American Queen was a North Carolina Reads pick for 2025 and an Alamance Countywide read for 2026 and Our State Magazine book club pick for February 2026.

Her novel, The Filling Station, has received starred reviews from Library Journal and Booklist. It is a Positively Charlotte book club pick, an Oklahoma County Big Red Read and was an instant USA Today Bestseller. 

 

My Review

 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.