I have to admit that one was terrifying as I didn't want to picture or even imagine a world in which Germany won WWII. But it was well written and I'm pretty sure that it did what it was suppose and that was to terrify the reader.

A rich, challenging--and disturbing dystopian novel based on an absolutely fascinating premise and woven of gorgeously researched history. A truly provocative and unique read--Highly recommended!

Many thanks to Sourcebook and to Netgalley for the opportunity and the pleasure of the read.

“Widowland” by CJ Carey is a dystopian book that asks a “what if” question - what if during WWII Britain had lost to Germany - what might’ve happened?

As others have noted, this book sparks a resemblance to “1984” and “The Handmaidens Tale,” and having read both of those books, I agree. Rewriting history is mentioned, along with not talking or “remembering” the Before Times, and how women - praised for being able to bear children - are second class, or worse, citizens. Reading is, for all intents and purposes, forbidden outside of school - but the only books to be read are those that have been modified by the government to enforce the ideal feminine traits.

I found the idea of this book very interesting - and I can see it being a popular book club book, especially with the discussion questions listed in the back. The world building I enjoyed - I liked the explanation of “how things worked” and found it rather interesting. I liked how, to throw in a “Hunger Games” reference, the lowest (poorest) people weren’t as downtrodden as believed by those not living in that segregated area. I enjoyed reading about the rewriting of history - not just news, but also literature, movies, and the like (thinking of a corrected “Casablanca” makes me think the entire movie wouldn’t be available). I also liked how, unlike in Hunger Games, the story was told with a main character who seemed to almost have it all - the privilege, the extended family - but inside was conflicted.

But somewhere around the 80% mark, things started falling flat for my enjoyment. I know that the story picks up around that point, but things seemed to move very quickly, but at the same time (at least to me) rather from left field. I do think I want to reread the book at another time, but I think it’s more to enjoy the world building and some of the literary mentions. I was a titch disappointed that Ms. Carey is working on a sequel - while I understand why the world was an interesting one to visit, but I hope that Rose’s story isn’t continued as I rather liked the ending as it stands. Maybe a further visit into Widowland? Speaking of Widowland, do read the Author’s Interview as she mentions how she came up with the title of the book.

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC.

What if the United Kingdom had surrendered itself to Nazi Germany?

Set in London 1953, Widowland follows Rose Ransom, a 29-year-old woman who works for the Ministry of Culture. She is in charge of changing classic works of literature to fit in with the Alliance's view of women. She is also a Geli, the highest class in the Alliance's system of classification for women. The ones at the bottom live in 'widowland'. As an important event approaches, whispers of plans to murder the Alliance's Leader, as well as mysterious graffiti made up of lines from famous women writers whose books had been banned, appear, and Rose is tasked with discovering the culprits behind these graffiti.

Unfortunately, this novel didn't work for me. The idea is fascinating (what would happen to women had the UK allied itself with Nazi Germany), but I think that it got lost along the way. The dystopian aspects are not exactly new (if you've read The Handmaid's Tale, 1984, Brave New World, etc. you will immediately see where the author drew inspiration from). This isn't a bad thing, per se, but I felt like the author tried to incorporate too many dystopian elements and ended up not being able to fully, deeply explore them. Because of this, the main plot wasn't as strong as it could've been, and it often got lost in the middle of unnecessary scenes.

The characters, including Rose, were mostly flat. I don't know if this is an issue of the writing style or if it's just me. The author definitely focuses more on world-building than exploring her characters' motivations, which is not necessarily a bad thing; however, I am usually drawn to stories that are more character- than plot-driven, so to me this was a negative aspect.

On the other hand, this is an easy, addictive read. The writing style is really accessible and I liked how the author linked historical characters with the narrative - it's always an interesting part of any 'what if?' story. Overall, I was disappointed because the premise seemed incredible, but this just wasn't for me.

Widowland by C. J. Carey is a unique and entertaining dystopian and alternative history novel that gives us the insight into what if…

This novel is set in England and gives us the alternative history of what the world could look like if WWII never happened as it did. This book takes a few givens: Nazi control over England, a new and created society, segregation along not just race/religion, but also among gender and usefulness as decided by the new government.
Societal classes are enforced, and history is being rewritten by the victors.

Rose is a great character. Her quest is very unique and dare I say I was drawn to her personality and the fundamental concepts, decisions, and inner voice that were presented within this story.

I don’t want to give anything away, so I will just say I went into this with certain expectations, but the book delivered so much more…and with a side of attitude and flare. I was pleasantly surprised and definitely recommend it.

4/5 stars

Thank you NG and Sourcebooks Landmark for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 8/6/22.

This was the first book for me to read by these authors but definitely not my last!! The story and characters are so well developed and the book is beautifully written. This will stick with you long after you finish the book. Highly recommend!!!