Louisa

The Extraordinary Life of Mrs. Adams

By: Louisa Thomas

Narrated by: Kirsten Potter

From the author of Mind and Matter, an intimate portrait of Louisa Catherine Adams, the wife of John Quincy Adams, who witnessed firsthand the greatest transformations of her time

Born in London to an American father and a British mother on the eve of the Revolutionary War, Louisa Catherine Johnson was raised in circumstances very different from the New England upbringing of the future president John Quincy Adams, whose life had been dedicated to public service from the earliest age. And yet John Quincy fell in love with her, almost despite himself. Their often tempestuous but deeply close marriage lasted half a century.

They lived in Prussia, Massachusetts, Washington, Russia, and England, at royal courts, on farms, in cities, and in the White House. Louisa saw more of Europe and America than nearly any other woman of her time. But wherever she lived, she was always pressing her nose against the glass, not quite sure whether she was looking in or out. The other members of the Adams family could take their identity for granted—they were Adamses; they were Americans—but she had to invent her own. The story of Louisa Catherine Adams is one of a woman who forged a sense of self. As the country her husband led found its place in the world, she found a voice. That voice resonates still.

In this deeply felt biography, the talented journalist and historian Louisa Thomas finally gives Louisa Catherine Adams's full extraordinary life its due. An intimate portrait of a remarkable woman, a complicated marriage, and a pivotal historical moment, Louisa Thomas's biography is a masterful work from an elegant storyteller.

If you love history from a woman's point of view!

Yes it did meet my expectations, and then some. Excellent detail, excellent narration , great story about a woman behind a significant figure in early American history.

Louisa Adams, An Interesting Woman

I found this biography of Louisa Adams both interesting and amazing. She was a woman of intellect, courage, and complexity. Her ability to go forth and conquer, when required, and to suffer crushing losses and poor health, along with some psychological signs of the stresses of her life, have been written with insight, honesty and compassion. That she and her husband, John Quincy Adams, were ill-suited for each other in many ways, and yet strangely often good both for them single and together, was a credit to them both.

What was the point?

What a tragic life!
Her life was full of sorrow. Although she at times rose the the occasion of making a difference, I didn’t think it was worth an entire biography. I was bored and just wanted the tragedy to end.

Fascinating Biography!

Gripping! Like the title says, Louisa Adams lived an extraordinary life! I am certain I will return to this story again which is not something I often do.

Great!

Wonderful narrative about a woman who deserves more praise than history has given her. I really enjoyed this book.