Devoted wife, White House maid, reluctant activist…

A stirring novel inspired by the life of an unsung heroine, and real-life crusader, Lizzie McDuffie, who as a maid in FDR’s White House spearheaded the Civil Rights movement of her time.

I’m just a college-educated Southerner with a passion for books. My husband says I’m too bold, too sharp, too unrelenting. Others say I helped spearhead the Civil Rights movement of our time. President Roosevelt says I’m too spunky and spirited for my own good.

Who am I?

I am Elizabeth “Lizzie” McDuffie. 

 And this is my story…

When Lizzie McDuffie, maid to Eleanor and Franklin D. Roosevelt, boldly proclaimed herself FDR’s “Secretary-On-Colored-People’s-Affairs,” she became more than just a maid—she became the President’s eyes and ears into the Black community. After joining the White House to work alongside her husband, FDR’s personal valet, Lizzie managed to become completely indispensable to the Roosevelt family. Never shy about pointing out injustices, she advocated for the needs and rights of her fellow African Americans when those in the White House blocked access to the President.

Following the life of Lizzie McDuffie throughout her time in the White House as she championed the rights of everyday Americans and provided access to the most powerful man in the country, Let Us March On looks at the unsung and courageous crusader who is finally getting the recognition she so richly deserves.

BIO

Shara Moon is a first-generation Haitian American writer and amateur historian who enjoys exploring Black world history. She is a former college writing instructor with degrees from the University of Central Florida and the City College of New York. Let Us March On is her debut historical fiction novel.

REVIEWS

"Shara Moon bursts onto the historical fiction scene with the tale of Lizzie McDuffie, who finds herself a position as White House maid through four Roosevelt presidential terms when her husband becomes FDR's personal valet...Lizzie fearlessly advises the President as his self-appointed Secretary On Colored People's Affairs, forever asking herself 'Am I doing enough? Can I do more?' A quietly compelling portrait of a woman in the shadows, at last stepping into the light. Let Us March On is a story that will linger long in the memory!" -- Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of THE BRIAR CLUB

"Let Us March On is a wonderful debut about Lizzie McDuffie, a woman whose passion and strength shine throughout the novel. A true warrior, she uses her position as personal maid to FDR to advocate for the Civil Rights movement. Shara Moon delivers a moving story that is both beautifully told and powerful." -- Madeline Martin, New York Times bestselling author of The Booklover's Library

"Let Us March On is a heartfelt glimpse into life below stairs in FDR's White House, told from the unique vantage-point of his personal maid, whose friendship with the forward-thinking president placed her in a position of real influence to advance the cause of Black Americans. With vivid historical detail and memorable cameos, Moon deftly portrays Lizzie McDuffie's transformation from maid to advocate, capturing the voices of the burgeoning civil rights movement and those working behind the scenes to make change. An inspiring and uplifting must-read!" -- Stephanie Dray, New York Times Bestselling Author 

[P]  William Morrow & Company  /  February 04, 2025