Farthing

Farthing is an alternate history novel set in 1949 Britain, where the UK made peace with Nazi Germany in 1941 and withdrew from World War II. The story takes place in a world where Germany and the Soviet Union remain locked in conflict while Britain has turned toward isolationism and fascist-leaning policies. The narrative follows a murder investigation at a countryside estate when a prominent political figure is found dead. The case is investigated through two perspectives: Lucy Kahn, the daughter of a powerful political family who has married a Jewish man, and Inspector Carmichael of Scotland Yard. The book combines elements of classic English country house mysteries with political intrigue and historical speculation. The investigation unfolds against a backdrop of rising antisemitism and authoritarianism in British society. This novel explores themes of complicity, prejudice, and how societies can gradually accept the unacceptable through small compromises. The marriage between Lucy and David serves as a focal point for examining personal choices in the face of systemic discrimination.

Readers describe Farthing as a murder mystery that serves as a warning about how fascism can take root gradually. Many highlight the book's atmosphere of creeping dread and its relevance to modern politics. Readers appreciated: - The blend of classic country house mystery with political thriller elements - Character development, especially Lucy's narrative voice - Historical details and world-building - The realistic portrayal of how societies accept authoritarianism Common criticisms: - Slow pacing in the first third - Some found the political messaging heavy-handed - Several readers wanted more resolution to certain plot threads Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (6,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (180+ ratings) Representative review: "Like watching a train wreck in slow motion - you see the disaster coming but can't look away. The murder mystery pulled me in, but the political implications kept me thinking long after." - Goodreads reviewer

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🔹 The book is part of the "Small Change" trilogy, followed by "Ha'penny" and "Half a Crown," each exploring different aspects of this alternate historical timeline. 🔹 Jo Walton won the Prometheus Award for "Ha'penny," the second book in this series, which recognizes outstanding works promoting libertarian themes. 🔹 The novel's structure alternates between two narrators: a third-person account following Inspector Carmichael and first-person chapters from Lucy Kahn's perspective. 🔹 The "Farthing Set" mentioned in the book is loosely inspired by the real-life "Cliveden Set," a 1930s group of influential British aristocrats who advocated for appeasement with Nazi Germany. 🔹 The book was published in 2006 and marked Walton's successful transition from writing primarily fantasy (her previous works) to alternate history fiction.