The Fertile Ones

A Dystopian Novel

By: Kate L. Mary

Narrated by: Isabella Tugman

Ara Murphy never wanted to be a mother, but the law is clear. She’s fertile, which means her body belongs to the human race.

It’s the year is 2067, and the world has been ravaged by pandemics. The population has dwindled, and fertile women are a rare and valuable commodity. In hopes of preserving our species, the United States has passed the Fertility Act, forcing all women to be screened. Participation in the program is supposed to be straight forward. Three years, one baby, then freedom.

But as Ara navigates the complex and invasive procedures within the program, she’s plagued by questions. Is the government really looking out for the good of the people, or do they have hidden motives? And how much more can they take from her in the name of survival?

Perfect for fans of The Handmaid's Tale, Station Eleven, The Power, and Vox, this dystopian tale of courage and bravery will keep you listening!

©2024 Kate L. Mary (P)2024 Kate L. Mary

Story is good, but…

I liked the story even though it seemed like a take off on The Handmaids Tale. Or maybe because it did, lol.

The story could have been a bit tighter since it was a bit repetitive at times, but it was still interesting. My biggest problem was with the narration. It was too much “telling instead of showing” like the narrative of a documentary.

Still, I would recommend the book. Will I buy another of the author’s books? Probably - as long as it doesn’t have the same documentary style narration.

The pacing was painfully slow

This was a great premise, and there were a lot of great ideas in the story, but there is so much fluff - so much “this this this” happened, so much that could’ve been taken out so that all that remained was the actual story. it’s a good idea executed with mediocrity. There were a few places in the narration that were repeated (editing) which doesn’t really bother me but I figured if I was going to review, the author would want to know this. Again, good premise but it’s not quite there.

Terrifying because it’s not impossible

Very well written. I was hooked from the beginning. What makes it so terrifying is the fact it’s not that far fetched. Worth the credit or money spent. Kate L Mary draws you into the worlds she creates and I’m looking forward to listening to more of her books. Narration was good. Wasn’t a fan that all the people that worked for the department of fertility sounded the same but otherwise it was okay.

The story seems like it should be really out there, but under the right circumstances I could see it happening

The story was well written and believable.The narrator did a wonderful job.I started listening in the morning and it was so good I listened straight through until it was done.Now I'm going to look for more books by this author!

Hits Close to Home

Very possible in today’s climate. Pace was good and story was exciting. Very descriptive writing style.