My Girl

The Babes in the Woods murders. A mother’s fight for justice.

By: Michelle Hadaway

Narrated by: Kristin Atherton

Brought to you by Penguin.

On Thursday 9th October, Michelle Hadaway's worst fears came true. After watching her daughter Karen playing in the neighbour's garden with her best friend Nicola, Michelle returned to cook dinner for her family. Unbeknownst to her, this would be the last time she would ever see Karen alive.

In the following days and months, shocking details would come to light about the nature of Karen and Nicola's murders, and the case which had come to be known as 'the Babes in the Wood murders' would lead to one of the most infamous and cruellest miscarriages of justice in British history.

For decades, Michelle fought tirelessly to bring justice to her daughter's murder, shining light on countless police failings and media manipulations in the process. Finally, in 2018 after 32 years of suffering, Russell Bishop, the man Michelle had long known to be guilty, was sentenced in court.

This is the story of two stolen lives, of the long road to justice, but most of all the story of a mother's love and determination.

©2023 Michelle Hadaway (P)2023 Penguin Audio

The strength of Michelle Hadaway

I can’t stop crying. Please read this book. Michelle shares her life with us in a most compelling and personal that I feel like I know her.

Couldn’t stop listening until I finished it

This was an incredible story. I’d seen the case over the years on several crime shows, but having the full story told by a mother was absolutely mind-blowing. I cried throughout the listen. What a brave woman. What an outstanding person. She definitely inspired me to be a better mother. May her heart find peace.