When she fell asleep, the world was doomed. When she awoke, it was dead.In the wake of a fever that decimated the earth s population killing women and children and making childbirth deadly for the mother and infant the midwife must pick her way through the bones of the world she once knew to find her place in this dangerous new one. Gone are the pillars of civilization. All that remains is power … remains is power and the strong who possess it.
A few women like her survived, though they are scarce. Even fewer are safe from the clans of men, who, driven by fear, seek to control those remaining. To preserve her freedom, she dons men s clothing, goes by false names, and avoids as many people as possible. But as the world continues to grapple with its terrible circumstances, she ll discover a role greater than chasing a pale imitation of independence.
After all, if humanity is to be reborn, someone must be its guide.
Philip K. Dick Award Winner for Distinguished Science Fiction
more
One of the best books I’ve ever read. Although it’s post apocalyptic, the story is very realistic. If a virus killed most of the women, it’s unfortunately easy to believe that many survivors would become increasingly hardened, doing things to survive that are straight out of a horror movie. Beyond that, the main character is not only very likeable, but also her story is just incredible. She’s a force to be reckoned with and her desire to help is inspiring.
If I could give this book 3.5 stars, I would. I usually really like dystopian fiction but this one just missed.
What I liked: the realistic depiction of what life would be like for women without the civility afforded by government, characters and characterization, that peoples’ stories are followed through to their ends.
What I didn’t like: it wasn’t particularly suspenseful.
This is the first book I have read by this author; it will not be the last. This is the best book I have read in a long time. The plot line is intriguing and the characters are so true to life, and drawn with honesty. I read far into the night, not able to put this book down. All I wanted to do was read this book, and I found myself neglecting chores and errands to continue to breath in this book. I highly recommend this novel!
I love Dystopian fiction, and this book did not disappoint. When I really like a book I read it really slow to make it last. I don’t want it to end. Luckily its part of a series. I strongly recommend this book