Farthing

Author: Jo Walton

What happens when the great United States fails to provide assistance? Disputes are negotiated peacefully, and everyone kisses and makes up, with a nice cup 'o tea, as is the English way. Farthing is set in 1949, but the divergence from actual history occurs in 1940, when the U.S. didn't provide aid to Britain. Without U.S. support, Britain's peace negotiations were accepted by Nazi Germany, the U.K. withdrew from World War 2, and the U.S. never became involved. World War 2 continued between Germany and the Soviet Union. Sir James Thirke, a popular minister, is murdered at a weekend party at Farthing House, found with a yellow Star of David pinned to his chest. Obviously, blame is pointed at David Kahn, the only Jewish person in the party. Luckily for Kahn, Inspector Carmichael (who has his own secre) suspects this is a ruse to divert attention from the real murderer, particularly given Thirke was having an affair with his sister in law, and his pregnant wife seems to know something was up. In an Agatha Christie style move, Carmichael insists the guests stay at the house. Evidence is found of members of "the Farthing Set", and underground Jewish organization bent on killing Thirke, and one of the guests/suspects is announced as Prime Minister. The novel is written in two view points, and rather than being jarring, it's an effective, engaging device to explore the themes of fascism, class, families, relationships, and sex. If you enjoy murder mysteries and novels full of twists and turns that will keep the reader on their toes, then put this on your reading list. It was nominated for Benula, Quill, John W. Campbell Memorial, Locus and Sidewise Awards.

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