A tense and concerningly believable read, ‘Queentide’ by Donna Fisher is a dystopian fiction about women. Set in 2026 Australia (in the near future but not futuristic-feeling), authoritarianism is rife and women are fast losing their voice in the maelstrom of patriarchal outrage. In a sort of exacerbated truth, 2020 pandemic lockdowns led to an increase of domestic abuse reports, and a society that, instead of resolving these cases, turned the blame on women, leading to an escalation in harassment and prejudice.
As I read I saw the modern world we live in now but twisted, as though perceived in a carnival mirror.
The writing in this book is brilliant. The radio broadcast with Kathleen Rae had my blood boiling and the characterisation of slippery, manipulative politicians and media outlets were all so well crafted and believable. I enjoyed reading as Lillith grows in strength and confidence, and I was intrigued and daunted by Insley’s more aggressive path.
There are plenty of strong female characters, with their own backstories, flaws and views that helped to demonstrate a realistic variety of feminist perspectives. Amongst the agenda of Queentide, and as with any brilliant story focusing on people, individual beliefs cause conflicts about what the end goal is, and the means to achieve it.
Will Queentide be able to remain united? Will their plans make a positive difference or lead to a direct role reversal?
An evocative merging of political thriller and dystopian fiction, ‘Queentide’ has claws. It is a gripping read with grit, heart and good intentions and I’d highly recommend it.
Charlotte Walker, A LoveReading Ambassador
Australia in 2026 is not an easy place to be a woman. Authoritarianism has crept into the country. Women have lost their rights and voices.
| Primary Genre | Modern and Contemporary Fiction |
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Australia in 2026 is not an easy place to be a woman. Authoritarianism has crept into the country.
Queentide features in the following genres: Modern and Contemporary Fiction, Indie Books We Love, Dystopian and utopian fiction, Political / Legal Thrillers, Thriller and Suspense, General Fiction, Fiction, Recommendations, Speculative fiction
Paperback. Not Available.
Queentide was written by Donna Fisher and published by SheSaw Press
