The First Ladies

De: Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray

Narrado por: Robin Miles, Tavia Gilbert

Duración: 14 h y 33 m

Resumen del Editor

The Instant New York Times Bestseller!

A novel about the extraordinary partnership between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune—an unlikely friendship that changed the world, from the New York Times bestselling authors of the Good Morning America Book Club pick The Personal Librarian.

The daughter of formerly enslaved parents, Mary McLeod Bethune refuses to back down as white supremacists attempt to thwart her work. She marches on as an activist and an educator, and as her reputation grows she becomes a celebrity, revered by titans of business and recognized by U.S. Presidents. Eleanor Roosevelt herself is awestruck and eager to make her acquaintance. Initially drawn together because of their shared belief in women’s rights and the power of education, Mary and Eleanor become fast friends confiding their secrets, hopes and dreams—and holding each other’s hands through tragedy and triumph.

When Franklin Delano Roosevelt is elected president, the two women begin to collaborate more closely, particularly as Eleanor moves toward her own agenda separate from FDR, a consequence of the devastating discovery of her husband’s secret love affair. Eleanor becomes a controversial First Lady for her outspokenness, particularly on civil rights. And when she receives threats because of her strong ties to Mary, it only fuels the women’s desire to fight together for justice and equality.

This is the story of two different, yet equally formidable, passionate, and committed women, and the way in which their singular friendship helped form the foundation for the modern civil rights movement.

©2023 Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray (P)2023 Penguin Audio

Reseñas de la Crítica

“Explores the extraordinary legacies of these two historical figures, while also bringing us into their personal lives and their deep friendship. Benedict and Murray bring their knack for historical fiction to a story of the women's unlikely alliance and the ways their bond and efforts forged the beginnings of the modern civil rights movement.”—Entertainment Weekly

“It's an utter joy to watch civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt forge a partnership that changed America: plotting over teacups, negotiating tricky conversations about race and privilege, celebrating their triumphs, and never giving up. The First Ladies is a wonder!"—Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Diamond Eye

"While the depictions of the women's activism are inspiring, the novel really shines in the behind-the-scenes moments when the women support each other during personal struggles with marital infidelity, illness, and loss. This impeccably researched, relevant novel is a must-read and destined to be a book-club favorite."—Booklist (starred review)

Great book about inspiring women

I loved this book. Although it is fiction, the facts interspersed left me feeling hopeful and inspired.

The Power of Friendship

I love finally being able to read stories of powerful women in history and how they shaped our nation’s history. This book was beautifully narrated. I felt some segments were stretched a bit but this is always necessary when complete records cannot be found. I always enjoy the afterward by each author with more explanation about their research process. A great read about 2 very important ground breaking women in our nation’s history.

A Must Listen

The entire book from start to finish was excellent. I enjoyed the performance and portrayal of the two First Ladies.

Historical Fiction at its Finest!

Loved reading about this piece of little known history! Such a fascinating novel about two amazing women!

Marie and Victoria do it again !!

This is an inspiring story of 2 strong women willing to fight for their core beliefs… everyone is equal. I learned so much again from Eleanor and Mary through the collaboration of Marie and Victoria. I guarantee you will see the world and history differently by the last page. Make sure you listen to the epilogue and authors comments, again you will learn great insights and important background of what goes into writing of the challenging topic. Great job!

Great read!

What insight into how much progress in our country was forged by these two dedicated women! Also appreciated the afterwords with the stories and learning experiences of the authors’ friendship!

Must read!

Beautifully written story of an unprecedented friendship that continues to connect with history today. I had never heard of Mary McLeod Bethune and want to do more reading about this strong woman who championed so much in her lifetime. As Eleanor Roosevelt I knew a few things but reading this being fiction brings a lot of historical basis tying these women’s struggles to build a better future for equality. Absolutely love Marie and Victoria’s style of writing together and truly making you re-examine the issues surrounding our world today. Look forward to reading more from these two authors!

Excellent work

Historical fiction interwoven with facts and superior writing makes this a gem and a worthy read.

What an beautiful and amazing friendship

A must read by all women of all colors. It’s possible to form “a true and trustworthy “relationship with someone completely different than you.

What a great surprise!

As a lifelong Eleanor Roosevelt fan, this book was so fascinating. Having been to Hyde Park many times over the years, this was something I could visualize. Great collaboration. Wonderful read!