FABClub (Female Authors Book Club) discussion

... is When She Woke by Hillary Jordan.

"In the mid–21st century, a young woman in Texas awakens to a nightmare: her skin has been genetically altered, turned bright red as punishment for the crime of having an abortion.

Inspired by The Scarlet Letter, When She Woke depicts an American dystopia where terrorist attacks, natural disasters and a pandemic causing infertility have swung the country to the far right, and convicted criminals are “chromed” according to the nature of their crime and then released. A stigmatized woman in a hostile and frightening world, Hannah Payne must seek a path northward to safety. Her perilous journey becomes one of self-discovery and transfiguration as she realizes that faith, love and sexuality are not just political. They’re personal."

Hi, I love the premise of this book club! I'm trying to decide if I want to re-read The Scarlet Letter first (even though it might sort of violate club rules) or just dive right in. Any opinions?
Alexa in North Carolina

I haven't read the Scarlet Letter, but I really want to now! I just finished When She Woke and I thought it was amazing. It's up to you what to read first; I couldn't wait to dive into WSW so my vote might be for that option haha

I've got When She Woke on reserve at the library but it will probably be a couple of weeks before my turn comes up. In the meantime I might try the Scarlet Letter again. I don't have good memories of it, but I might be more receptive now.

Awesome! It will be worth the wait.

I just joined here, and am getting the book now. I'll catch up quickly.

Thanks Janel!

I'm done with the book and really liked, it except for the ending. Maybe I thought there would be more. The beginning and middle were superb. I guess the end was predictable. What did you think?

The end was a bit of a loose thread, and things could have wrapped up a bit better, I thought. But it didn't particularly bother me. I wonder if there will be any follow ups? Trilogies are so hot right now, haha.