Reviews

So the novel actually follows George Orwell's 1984 plotline but from another character's (Julia's) perspective. If I had known that I wouldn't have picked up the book, as I didn't really enjoy 1984. This story, however, was a fairly good read.

thepennotthesword's review

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5.0

… there is more than one way to leave people behind.

There are certain books that you wish you could read for the first time, again. The Sisterhood is one of these books. The Sisterhood is a brilliant feminist retelling of 1984, that whilst following the original storyline of 1984 by George Orwell, shines a light on characters not previously given a voice, providing the reader with a new alternative feminist perspective. Through this retelling the author provides us with an alternative to the Brotherhood, with characters who set out to redefine what it is to be a women in their society, whilst fighting to end Big Brother’s reign and control over their society.

An incredibly well-written, stifling and oppressive novel, almost a haunting mirror of certain aspects of modern day society. Not only does this develop on the themes and conclusions drawn in 1984, but it echoes dystopian developments within our own civilisation.

She is actually staring at nothing. Her anger is for nothing. It is for everything. It is for our fear-sodden, cold, controlled lives.

The character Julia is given an entire backstory through this feminist retelling where we as the reader can see how she fits within her role not only in Oceania, but within the Sisterhood, gathering intelligence and observing characters such as Winston Smith. However, it is the power and determination she has in achieving her goals, fighting for herself and for those she loves, and how she will do anything to protect those she holds most dear that makes this character so compelling.

Julia is less of a woman to be characterised as a love interest for Winston, content with her own sensual small rebellions. Throughout The Sisterhood she is given agency, and a voice. And this fervent voice is one of power, one of sacrifice, and one of hope amidst the most horrific of times.

In my darker moments, I almost envy the dead, envy that for them, there is nothing left to fear.

I was absolutely blown away by this book. One of the easiest five stars I have ever given and a contender for favourite read of the year already. This book really had it all, a classic with a modern spin, taking Orwell’s main premise and building upon this further, highlighting the in-depth research and reading undertaken by the author. The power and emotion that you feel throughout, especially from characters who society goes to great lengths to control and censor, is exceptional and the ending is one that will definitely leave a long lasting impression. I couldn’t recommend this book enough, especially for lovers of classics, retellings, feminist readings and for readers who want to read female main characters that will stop at nothing to reach their goals.

This was enthralling, unputdownable, and a true literary masterpiece.

Many thanks to Random Things Tours, Katherine Bradley and Simon Schuster UK for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

always_need_more_books's review

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adventurous challenging dark inspiring tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

1984 by George Orwell is a novel that has always stayed with me since I read it back in the 1980s at school. I revisited it in 2016 and found it just as disturbing. So when Katherine Bradley’s novel The Sisterhood came out in 2023, I was keen to read it.
In The Sisterhood we are in the same world as 1984 but this story is about Julia, the woman who in 1984 begins a relationship with Winston Smith before they are captured. We don’t hear much about Julia or her motivations in 1984 and in The Sisterhood, Bradley imagines Julia’s story.
As the book begins, Julia is attending the weekly screening of the lottery meeting. She is joined by her fellow members of The Sisterhood, a small group of women whose ultimate aim is to overthrow Big Brother. To do this they hope to infiltrate and join forces with The Brotherhood, a group of men who are already fighting Big Brother. Fellow Sisterhood member Ruby believes she has found a member of The Brotherhood and has made contact but as the crowds gather waiting for the lottery results, the Thought Police arrive and take Ruby. The other women are devastated and scared for their own lives and so Julia attempts to find Ruby’s contact and this is what leads her to Winston Smith.
We also go back in time to when Julia was a girl, who lives in relative comfort with her parents and brother, attending school, away from the harsh realities of living in the Big Brother regime. Her origins are not a story she has shared with anyone and as the revelations come they are heart-breaking and shocking.
The Sisterhood was everything I hoped it would be – a feminist retelling that captures the essence of 1984 perfectly. There are some truly shocking moments that took my breath away and it is a thrilling read as this strong group of women fight for their freedom and the freedom of everyone in Oceania in what seems like an impossible situation.
The feeling of tension is huge – the women never know if their tricks to not arouse suspicion are working. Planning a revolution is not an easy thing to do when their are spies everywhere and the telescreens are always on, watching and listening.
I think The Sisterhood can be read without having read 1984 but I think you’ll appreciate it’s cleverness more if you have. A brilliant read and one I can’t stop thinking about, it is such a clever idea and is perfectly executed.
I loved it so much I have arranged for the author to visit our book club in April to chat about the book – I think it is one everyone will enjoy.