The Women on Platform Two by Laura Anthony (Audiobook)

This powerful novel, based on a true story, is my first five star listen of the year! It showcases the strength and resiliency of women and the ability we have to overcome hardships and unite together for what we believe in.

The story alternates in time between 1969 and 2023. In 1969, in Dublin, Maura marries Dr. Christy Davenport. It’s also a time when contraception of any kind was forbidden and illegal. In the beginning of her marriage this is fine for Maura as she wants a family with Christy. However Christy’s horrific temper shows its ugly face soon enough and Maura is left knowing that she can’t possibly bring a child into that kind of environment but what can she possibly do to prevent a pregnancy? Thus begins the journey with a group of brave women to fight to change the law. They fiercely believed it was the right of every woman to be able to make decisions regarding their own bodies.

In 2023, Saoirse is having struggles of her own. Her fiancé desperately wants a family but she isn’t ready and isn’t sure she ever will be. A chance occurrence has her meeting Maura on the train and she is treated to hearing about some of Maura’s life. Not only does she come away knowing what she needs to do in her life but also deeply grateful for the women who came before her who had an impact on the laws that allow her to decide what is right for her.

This novel is so incredibly powerful (I know I said this already but I’m saying it again) and timely given what is going on in the world now. It’s hard to believe that women, in 2025, still need to fight for the right to decide what is best for them. As for me I alternated between tears and hopefulness while listening. The audiobook is incredible! It is read by Jessica Regan, Shakira Shute, and Maeve Smyth and they brought so much emotion and life to the story that I felt I knew all the characters personally. Very well done!

The Women on Platform Two will stay with me for a long time. Please keep in mind for those sensitive to certain triggers to read the description before delving in. For everyone else I highly recommended this novel!

Review copy provided by the publisher for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

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