The First Ladies by Marie Benedict & Victoria Christopher Murray – Historical Fiction Paperback

THE FIRST LADIES
By Marie Benedict & Victoria Christopher Murray

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
TARGET'S 2023 BOOK OF THE YEAR

Two extraordinary women. One unlikely friendship. A powerful partnership that helped change American history.

From the bestselling authors of The Personal Librarian comes an unforgettable historical fiction novel inspired by the remarkable friendship between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights pioneer Mary McLeod Bethune.

In an era when racial segregation and discrimination shaped nearly every aspect of American society, two women from vastly different backgrounds formed a friendship that would challenge expectations and help transform a nation.

Mary McLeod Bethune was born to formerly enslaved parents.

Determined to create opportunities for others, she dedicated her life to education, equality, and the advancement of African Americans.

As an educator, activist, and influential leader, Mary refused to let prejudice or powerful opposition silence her voice.

Eleanor Roosevelt grew up in a world of privilege.

But behind the expectations of high society, she longed to make a meaningful difference.

As the wife of Franklin D. Roosevelt, Eleanor found herself increasingly drawn toward public service, women's rights, and social justice.

When Mary and Eleanor meet, they discover an unexpected connection.

Despite their different backgrounds, they share a fierce belief in education, equality, and the power of women to create change.

What begins as mutual admiration soon develops into a profound friendship.

As Franklin Roosevelt rises to the presidency, Eleanor becomes First Lady and gains a powerful platform from which to advocate for change.

Mary, already a respected educator and civil rights leader, becomes an important ally and trusted friend.

Together, the women challenge racial barriers, confront discrimination, and advocate for those whose voices have too often been ignored.

But their friendship is not without consequences.

Eleanor faces public criticism and threats for her outspoken support of civil rights.

Mary must continually confront the dangers and injustices of a deeply segregated society.

And both women struggle with personal heartbreak, family responsibilities, and the enormous expectations placed upon them.

Through political upheaval, personal tragedy, and historic change, their friendship becomes a source of strength and inspiration.

THE FIRST LADIES is a moving historical novel about courage, loyalty, friendship, and the extraordinary impact two determined women can have on the world.

Rich in historical detail and emotional storytelling, this unforgettable novel celebrates the women whose partnership helped lay important groundwork for the modern civil rights movement.

Perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah, Kate Quinn, historical fiction, and powerful stories about women who changed history.

THEMES & READING VIBES

• Historical fiction
• Based on real historical figures
• American history
• Women's historical fiction
• Civil rights movement
• Women's rights
• Female friendship
• Strong female characters
• Political history
• Eleanor Roosevelt
• Mary McLeod Bethune
• Racial equality
• Education and empowerment
• Courage and resilience
• Social justice
• Historical drama
• Women's leadership
• Inspiring true-life figures
• Emotional storytelling
• Book club fiction

BOOK DETAILS

Title: The First Ladies
Authors: Marie Benedict & Victoria Christopher Murray
Format: Trade Paperback
Publisher: Berkley
Publication Date: June 4, 2024
Pages: 416
ISBN-13: 9780593440292
Language: English
Genre: Historical Fiction / Biographical Fiction

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

• New York Times Bestseller
• Target's 2023 Book of the Year
• From the bestselling authors of The Personal Librarian

PERFECT FOR READERS WHO LOVE

• Marie Benedict
• Victoria Christopher Murray
• The Personal Librarian
• Kristin Hannah
• Kate Quinn
• The Nightingale
• The Alice Network
• Sadeqa Johnson
• The House of Eve
• Historical fiction
• Women's historical fiction
• Stories inspired by real events
• Powerful female friendships
• American history
• Civil rights history
• Inspirational historical novels
• Books about remarkable women
• Thought-provoking book club selections