The First Ladies

4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars | 6,594 ratings

Price: 1.99

Last update: 12-22-2024


About this item

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.

From the Publisher

From the authors of The Personal Librarian

An utter joy... The First Ladies is a wonder! — Kate Quinn

A timely story... of two strong minds coming together in the name of justice — Sadeqa Johnson

A powerful and unforgettable story of female strength & the triumph of the human spirit — Pam Jenoff


Top reviews from the United States

  • Linda Moore
    5.0 out of 5 stars We’ll written and easy to read
    Reviewed in the United States on December 10, 2024
    I love historical books and this one I just can’t seem to put down! It’s a lovely book about two women who became fast friends back when it was unusual for blacks and whites to be friends, and especially to touch in public! It was the beginning of changing the world.
  • Anamari
    4.0 out of 5 stars Revealing
    Reviewed in the United States on October 22, 2024
    The book tends to drag but it provides a great insight into the lives of two amazing women. It could have used some further editing but a worthwhile read.
  • R Scheese
    5.0 out of 5 stars A must-read for historic fiction readers
    Reviewed in the United States on August 2, 2024
    Just finished "The First Ladies," a historical fiction novel by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray.

    The narrative describes the extraordinary partnership and profound friendship between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune, two remarkable women from vastly different backgrounds. The tale unfolds over a 20- plus year period of turmoil and change in American history.

    One becomes sensitive to the amount of respect both women deserve. Mary McLeod Bethune, the daughter of formerly enslaved parents, emerges as a formidable force against the backdrop of racial injustice.  Eleanor Roosevelt steps beyond her role as First Lady to champion civil rights. Together, they forge a bond grounded in their shared dedication to women's rights and the power of education.

    The authors skillfully depict the societal challenges and personal adversities faced by both women. The story unfolds against a challenging historical period, which only showcases the pivotal role these women played in laying the foundation for the modern civil rights movement.

    "The First Ladies" is not just a historical novel; it's a tribute to two pioneers whose friendship defied the norms of their time. The author's meticulous research and writing style of narrating the events from each characters alternating perspective makes this book a must-read for fans of historical fiction. Beautifully written and educational, "The First Ladies" is a tribute to the enduring power of friendship and the relentless pursuit of justice..

    Check it out
  • Avonna
    5.0 out of 5 stars Highly Recommend!
    Reviewed in the United States on April 11, 2024
    THE FIRST LADIES by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray is a biographical historical fiction novel of a beautiful and significant friendship between a First Lady of the United States, Eleanor Roosevelt and the First Lady of the Struggle, Mary McLeod Bethune. The story spans two decades with the Depression, World War II, Jim Crow laws, lynching, and the continual fight for social equality with these two strong women fighting together for change.

    While I felt knowledgeable about this period and Eleanor Roosevelt’s work for social improvements for all, I did not know about Mary McLeod Bethune’s contributions. The story of their friendship is told in alternating chapters. Mary is older, a Lincoln Republican and has been fighting for education for Negroes and equality her entire life when she meets Eleanor (who is not a First Lady at the time). They strike up an unlikely friendship that endures triumphs and tragedies, both personal and political.

    I loved the new historical facts and people I learned of while reading this story. For me, research and facts in a historical story are important and I always hope to learn something new. The candid conversations between the two highlighted common misunderstandings between the races, racial discrimination, and segregation. As the two grew closer, I enjoyed the scenes where they would work around the system, problem, or President to get the solution they wanted. While this is an engaging story of historical friendship, it also delves into the politics of the times to a great degree. I love politics, both past and present, but for some who are hoping for a book only about the two women’s friendship, they may not enjoy it as much as I did.

    This is a book of a loving friendship, but it also delves into the darkness of racial hate, lynching, and segregation. The disrespect of humans for just the color of their skin was ever present in this period of American history (not that it isn’t today), but Eleanor was the First Lady and with her power and the help of her friend Mary, she continuously and publicly fought to change society.

    I highly recommend this powerful biographical historical fiction about two amazing First Ladies!
  • debreads
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great book with a historical perspective.
    Reviewed in the United States on November 7, 2024
    Interesting way the book was written by two people. It was an easy read you will enjoy and keeps you going to the end.
  • BeeWell
    4.0 out of 5 stars Amazing Read but Paperback Poor Quality
    Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2024
    I ordered this book in paperback because it was a great read and I wanted my own copy. The only problem is that the font is extremely small and little space between the sentences. Great book..poorly executed. Would have loved to keep it but will return. Will order Hardcover

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