OnlineBookClub.org

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Gardens of Eden" by Eve Willoughby.]

The Gardens of Eden by Eve Willoughby depicts a world where straight women are in charge, and LGBTQ+ relationships are the majority. Straight men are used as breeders to keep the population intact. When a woman gives birth, if the child is identified as homosexual based on a genetic test, they are given to a homosexual couple. Straight females are trained to lead, and straight males are sent to be raised to be breeders. Eve, a young woman, has taken her place as a leader. She is set to visit the breeders and become a mother. However, what should have been a mere appointment develops into love. She falls in love with one of the breeders, David. Their love is forbidden, however, as heterosexual couples are not allowed. Will Eve choose duty or love?

I thought this book was an interesting case study of the thin divide between dystopian and utopian societies. On paper, this world is beautiful. Each member has a purpose, and non-traditional relationships are allowed to flourish. Most everyone is happy and devoted to maintaining their world. However, Eve and David's relationship is forbidden, women are forced to give up their children, and non-conformity to societal standards is not acceptable. I thought this novel showcases how one person's utopia is another's dystopia.

I also appreciated the vivid language that was used. Willoughby used a poetic tone to describe the world and bring the characters' emotions to life. I found the setting and characters easy to picture.

One of my main issues with the book was the lack of a clear timeline. There were very few concrete details that pointed to how much time had passed, and I spent the majority of the book thinking it had only been a few days, only to realize later months had passed. This made the developing romance between Eve and David seem unrealistic at times because it seemed as though it moved at lightning speed; however, I do not believe this was the intention. I think a few more indications of time would have been helpful.

Overall, I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. I am taking off a star due to the above-mentioned issue with the timeline. I also thought the ending felt a tab rushed. Overall, the strong writing style and unique concept held my attention. If you enjoy romance and the exploration of the line between utopia and dystopia, then The Gardens of Eden is a great option!

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The Gardens of Eden
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The Gardens of Eden flips societal norms, placing straight women in power and making LGBTQ+ relationships the default. While the concept is bold and thought-provoking, exploring the blurred line between utopia and dystopia, the execution has its flaws. Eve and David’s forbidden romance highlights the cost of a seemingly perfect system. The writing is poetic and immersive, but the unclear timeline weakens the emotional depth of their relationship. Despite a rushed ending, the book’s originality and message stand out

The story sounds interesting, but, indeed, it still shows that one person's dystopia could be another's utopia. In my view, the world presented in the book is really totalitarian and it seems the inhabitants are just there to follow rules. My curiosity is piqued to know what Eve will choose. Thanks for the review, @Laney K.

This story has employed out-of-the-norm world building. It will be interesting to see the stakes that are involved and how one's dystopia could be another's utopia. I am intrigued! Great review!

I clicked on this review because I was intrigued by the title of the book. After reading your post, all I can say is: Wow, that is not the plot I was expecting. I wonder why straight women are in charge if homosexuality is the norm. I would also be interested to know what social roles (domestic, bread-winner, etc.) the different genders are typed with. The whole society being undermined by a woman named Eve doesn't seem all that different from what we are pressured to believe already.

Thank you for this well thought out review! Sounds like this one needs to be added the the bookshelf!