Stephanie
New York Times Bestselling Author
Historical Fiction Novelist
Travels from: Baltimore, MD

“Stephanie Dray is one of my absolute favorite authors of historical fiction… I couldn’t stop turning pages in this novel.” — Lisa Scottoline

Stephanie Dray is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of historical women’s fiction. Renowned for her captivating storytelling and detailed historical narratives, Stephanie has written acclaimed works such as America’s First Daughter, My Dear Hamilton, The Women of Chateau Lafayette, and Becoming Madam Secretary. These novels have cemented her reputation as a leading voice in historical fiction, bringing to life the stories of America’s founding mothers, and influential women beyond the revolutionary era.

Stephanie graduated with a degree in Government from Smith College, then went on to Northwestern University School of Law. Before embarking on her writing career, she honed her skills as a lawyer, game designer, and private test preparation teacher. These diverse experiences enrich her novels, which illuminate the stories of remarkable women in history. Her work not only explores the past but also aims to inspire and empower young women today. Stephanie’s commitment to historical accuracy and vivid storytelling are evident in her richly detailed narratives.

Stephanie’s award-winning work consistently tops lists of the most anticipated reads of the year. Widely praised by colleagues, recommended on the TODAY show, and translated into many languages, her work resonates with readers around the world. Living in Maryland with her supportive husband, an extensive library of history books, and the inevitable basket of cats or foster kittens, Stephanie continues to write and share the powerful stories of women who have shaped history.

Stephanie's Featured Titles

Becoming Madam Secretary

Berkley |
Historical Fiction

She took on titans, battled generals, and changed the world as we know it…

New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Dray returns with a captivating and dramatic new novel about an American heroine Frances Perkins.

Raised on tales of her revolutionary ancestors, Frances Perkins arrives in New York City at the turn of the century, armed with her trusty parasol and an unyielding determination to make a difference.

When she’s not working with children in the crowded tenements in Hell’s Kitchen, Frances throws herself into the social scene in Greenwich Village, befriending an eclectic group of politicians, artists, and activists, including the millionaire socialite Mary Harriman Rumsey, the flirtatious budding author Sinclair Lewis, and the brilliant but troubled reformer Paul Wilson, with whom she falls deeply in love.

But when Frances meets a young lawyer named Franklin Delano Roosevelt at a tea dance, sparks fly in all the wrong directions. She thinks he’s a rich, arrogant dilettante who gets by on a handsome face and a famous name. He thinks she’s a priggish bluestocking and insufferable do-gooder. Neither knows it yet, but over the next twenty years, they will form a historic partnership that will carry them both to the White House.

Frances is destined to rise in a political world dominated by men, facing down the Great Depression as FDR’s most trusted lieutenant—even as she struggles to balance the demands of a public career with marriage and motherhood. And when vicious political attacks mount and personal tragedies threaten to derail her ambitions, she must decide what she’s willing to do—and what she’s willing to sacrifice—to save a nation.

The Women of Chateau Lafayette

Berkley |
Historical Fiction

The USA Today Bestseller!

Recommended by Oprah Magazine ∙ Cosmopolitan∙ PopSugar∙ SheReads ∙ Parade  and more!

An epic saga from New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Dray based on the true story of an extraordinary castle in the heart of France and the remarkable women bound by its legacy.

Most castles are protected by men. This one by women.

A founding mother…

1774. Gently-bred noblewoman Adrienne Lafayette becomes her husband, the Marquis de Lafayette’s political partner in the fight for American independence. But when their idealism sparks revolution in France and the guillotine threatens everything she holds dear, Adrienne must renounce the complicated man she loves, or risk her life for a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

A daring visionary…

1914. Glittering New York socialite Beatrice Chanler is a force of nature, daunted by nothing—not her humble beginnings, her crumbling marriage, or the outbreak of war. But after witnessing the devastation in France firsthand, Beatrice takes on the challenge of a lifetime: convincing America to fight for what’s right.

A reluctant resistor…

1940. French school-teacher and aspiring artist Marthe Simone has an orphan’s self-reliance and wants nothing to do with war. But as the realities of Nazi occupation transform her life in the isolated castle where she came of age, she makes a discovery that calls into question who she is, and more importantly, who she is willing to become.

Intricately woven and powerfully told, The Women of Chateau Lafayette is a sweeping novel about duty and hope, love and courage, and the strength we take from those who came before us.

America’s First Daughter: A Novel

William Morrow |
Historical Fiction

THE NEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY BESTSELLER

In a compelling, richly researched novel that draws from thousands of letters and original sources, bestselling authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie tell the fascinating, untold story of Thomas Jefferson’s eldest daughter, Martha “Patsy” Jefferson Randolph–a woman who kept the secrets of our most enigmatic founding father and shaped an American legacy.

From her earliest days, Patsy Jefferson knows that though her father loves his family dearly, his devotion to his country runs deeper still. As Thomas Jefferson’s oldest daughter, she becomes his helpmate, protector, and constant companion in the wake of her mother’s death, traveling with him when he becomes American minister to France.

It is in Paris, at the glittering court and among the first tumultuous days of revolution, that fifteen-year-old Patsy learns about her father’s troubling liaison with Sally Hemings, a slave girl her own age. Meanwhile, Patsy has fallen in love–with her father’s protégé William Short, a staunch abolitionist and ambitious diplomat. Torn between love, principles, and the bonds of family, Patsy questions whether she can choose a life as William’s wife and still be a devoted daughter.

Her choice will follow her in the years to come, to Virginia farmland, Monticello, and even the White House. And as scandal, tragedy, and poverty threaten her family, Patsy must decide how much she will sacrifice to protect her father’s reputation, in the process defining not just his political legacy, but that of the nation he founded.

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From Parasols to Politics: The Unstoppable Frances Perkins

Stephanie highlights the remarkable journey of Frances Perkins, America’s first female cabinet secretary. Through engaging storytelling, Stephanie explores Perkins’ transformation from a social reformer in the tenements of Hell’s Kitchen to a pivotal figure in the White House, emphasizing her role in shaping the New Deal and transforming American labor laws.

Organizations seeking to inspire their audience with powerful historical narratives and showcase the impact of women in politics will find Stephanie Dray’s presentation both educational and motivational. Her expertise and passion for historical storytelling makes for a captivating experience.

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Sacrifices & Contributions of Revolutionary American Women

Stephanie brings to life the sacrifices and contributions of figures like Abigail Adams, Patsy Jefferson, Adrienne Lafayette and Eliza Hamilton, emphasizing how these women’s efforts were fundamental to the success of the nation, not to mention prominent men like Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, the Marquis de Lafayette and Alexander Hamilton.

Stephanie offers a unique perspective on well-known historical figures through the eyes of the women who supported them. Her anecdotes and vivid storytelling make history accessible and relatable. And her talk underscores the significant yet unrecognized impact of women in shaping America’s early years, providing inspiration and appreciation for their contributions. Organizations looking to inspire their audience with powerful historical narratives and promote an understanding of women’s roles in history will find Stephanie Dray’s presentation both educational and motivating. Her expertise and passion ensure a compelling and memorable experience.

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From Bread Riots to Revolution: Women's Fight for Change

Join bestselling author Stephanie Dray for an inspiring talk on the remarkable women of the French Revolution, whose bravery and determination shaped history and changed the western world.

In this engaging presentation, Stephanie Dray will discuss the dramatic events that led to the French Revolution and the crucial roles women played. She will highlight the links between the French and American Revolutions.

She’ll introduce a diverse array of women from all social classes and political spectrums, reflecting on the enduring impact of these revolutionary women on contemporary discussions of women’s rights. This talk offers a captivating blend of history, literature, and inspiration.

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The Lafayette Legacy: Heroism from Revolution to Resistance

Join award-winning novelist Stephanie Dray as she explores the legacy of the Marquis de Lafayette and the remarkable women whose lives he impacted. In this engaging presentation, Stephanie delves into Lafayette’s role in the American Revolution, the French Revolution, and both World Wars, drawing from her latest novel, The Women of Chateau Lafayette.

Discover how Lafayette’s birthplace, Chateau de Chavaniac, became a refuge for Jewish children during the Holocaust, thanks to American war heroine Beatrice Chanler. Learn about the secret tunnels, false identities, and wartime love affairs that defined this legacy.

Stephanie highlights Lafayette’s unique relationships with the women of his era, showcasing their vital roles in defending his legacy. This presentation offers historical insight and narrative intrigue, perfect for organizations looking to inspire their audiences with stories of courage and resilience.

Stephanie’s News & Events Link

Stephanie’s Book Club Link

Stephanie’s Newsletter Link

Honors, Awards & Recognition

New York Times Bestseller
USA Today Bestseller
Wall Street Journal Bestseller

Media Kit

By clicking the link below you will be directed to a Google Docs Folder
where you can download author photos and cover images.

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