The Hormone Factory

The Hormone Factory by Saskia Goldschmidt, published by Saraband in 2016, is a 296-page exploration of complex themes surrounding power and morality. Set against the backdrop of the years leading up to World War II, the narrative follows Mordechai de Paauw, a Dutch pharmaceutical entrepreneur who is determined to develop the contraceptive pill. His ruthless ambition drives him to test hormonal treatments on his female employees, intertwining their fates with his own as he navigates a world marked by greed and exploitation.

Readers will encounter a riveting thriller that delves into the darker aspects of human nature, focusing on the consequences of Mordechai’s actions and the impact on the women he manipulates. The story unfolds amidst the looming threat of Hitler’s rise and a scandal involving his son, raising questions about redemption and control. This edition presents a thought-provoking look at the intersections of gender, power, and ethics within the realm of literature and fiction.