Prize Women cover art

Prize Women

The fascinating story of sisterhood and survival based on shocking true events

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Prize Women

By: Caroline Lea
Narrated by: Norma Butikofer
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About this listen

In 1920s Toronto, best friends Lily di Marco and Mae Thebault used to be inseparable. They lived under the same roof and cared for each other's children - in a world where men held all the power, they looked out for one another. But then the Great Depression hits, changing their relationship forever, as both women are forced to make impossible decisions to save themselves - and their families - from ruin.

As times get increasingly desperate, the fever of the Great Stork Derby grips the nation, where the woman who bears the most children is in line for a cash prize. The derby is both a cruel game and a welcome distraction, but for Lily and Mae, what bond will prove most sacred? That of family, or that of unimaginable wealth?

 20th Century Family Life Genre Fiction Historical Mystery Thriller & Suspense Women's Fiction Fiction Romance Money Suspense

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Critic reviews

Gorgeous. Prize Women - with its powerful, important message about women's choices, freedom and motherhood - took my breath away. I haven't stopped thinking about it (Jennifer Saint, bestselling author of Ariadne)
A profoundly moving and absolutely gripping novel about the choices women face - and the choices they are denied. I cannot recommend it highly enough (Elodie Harper, bestselling author of The Wolf Den)
A story that sounds stranger than fiction and Lea handles it with the utmost compassion. Wonderfully researched and full of evocative historical detail
Masterful. Caroline Lea is a superb storyteller, and Prize Women deserves a huge readership. So good, I had to pull myself away (Elizabeth Macneal)
Fascinating historical fiction with a feminist slant
Wonderfully evocative and intelligent, Prize Women sheds a light on a scandalous moment in history I knew nothing about. Lily and Mae's story is unforgettable, told with great sensitivity and grace. I was entranced (Emma Stonex, bestselling author of The Lamplighters)
This heartbreaking story explores friendship, strength and the fight to survive
Praise for Caroline Lea
Memorable and compelling (Sarah Moss)
Caroline's beautiful writing transported me entirely to another time and land (Susan Fletcher)
All stars
Most relevant
Listen to the whole book almost in 3 sittings. Read beautifully, written beautifully. An enthralling exciting and devastating novel. I learnt a lot about the plight of women from all social and class backgrounds, both as tragic and moving as each other. More than just a tale of a mothers’ love for her children.

An education in hardship and wealth

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A beautiful story following the lives of Lily and Mae and the true friendship between the two unlikely women. I had previously not herd of the Great Stork Derby however on finishing the book I am entrigued to learn more of the real event. stunningly written.

The reviews didn't do it justice. its a must read.

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Can't stop thinking about this breathtaking novel. It's amazing to think that this is based on a true story. Lea transports you into the heartbreaking perspectives of these women who struggle to raise their families during the great depression whilst having the carrot of a huge prize dangled by the media... a prize that goes to the woman that has the most children in a ten year period!

An astonishing story!

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