7.8 /10 1 Votes
Language English Publication date September 30, 2008 ISBN 978-0-7653-1621-9 Originally published 30 September 2008 Preceded by Ha'penny Publisher Tor Books | 3.9/5 Goodreads Series Small Change Media type Print (Hardcover) OCLC 213301014 Genre Alternate history Country United States of America | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Similar Jo Walton books, Alternate history books | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Half a Crown is a science fiction novel written by Jo Walton published by Tor Books in September 2008. The first "Small Change" novel, Farthing, was released in August 2006. The second novel in the trilogy, Ha'penny, was released in October 2007.
Contents
Plot summary
The book is a thriller set inside an alternate history in which the United Kingdom made peace with Adolf Hitler and the United States did not become involved in World War II. The British government has become fascist and authoritarian. Peter Carmichael, formerly a police inspector at Scotland Yard, is now head of the secret police called "The Watch". He must deal with political intrigue by those jealous of his position and safeguard his teenage ward while keeping secret his illicit activities helping Jews and dissidents who wish to flee the country.
Reception
Publishers Weekly was mixed in its review saying "Walton's understated prose and deft characterizations elevate this above similar works such as Fatherland and SS-GB. Some readers, though, may feel let down by an optimistic ending that jars with the series' overall downbeat tone."
Awards and nominations
Half a Crown was a finalist for the 2009 Prometheus Award.