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Tiny Tin House
In the Christian States of America, a woman’s place is with a man. No exceptions.
Although she’s legally an adult, eighteen-year-old Meryn Flint must live at home until her stepfather, Ray, finds her a husband. That’s the law.
But when Ray kills her mother and Meryn must flee for her own safety, she quickly discovers there’s no safe place in the CSA for a woman on the run. Unless she’s willing to marry her former boyfriend—a man who’s already demonstrated his capacity for violence—she’ll be forced to live on the street. And that’s a dangerous option for a woman alone.
As time runs out, Meryn is offered a third path: build herself a tiny house, a safe place to call home. Even though it’s a violation of her Family Duty as well as every moral law on the books, Meryn seizes the chance.
But even a tiny tin house might not be enough to save her...
15 hrs. 30 min.
Although she’s legally an adult, eighteen-year-old Meryn Flint must live at home until her stepfather, Ray, finds her a husband. That’s the law.
But when Ray kills her mother and Meryn must flee for her own safety, she quickly discovers there’s no safe place in the CSA for a woman on the run. Unless she’s willing to marry her former boyfriend—a man who’s already demonstrated his capacity for violence—she’ll be forced to live on the street. And that’s a dangerous option for a woman alone.
As time runs out, Meryn is offered a third path: build herself a tiny house, a safe place to call home. Even though it’s a violation of her Family Duty as well as every moral law on the books, Meryn seizes the chance.
But even a tiny tin house might not be enough to save her...
15 hrs. 30 min.
16 pages, Audible Audio
First published August 24, 2022
1 person is currently reading
704 people want to read
About the author
L. Maristatter
1 book12 followersAuthor of Tiny Tin House, L Maristatter is a Christian feminist, unapologetic. She's also published poetry in Defuncted journal and fiction in The Saturday Evening Post and Persimmon Tree journal. Her fiction often explores the territory between feminism, faith, and misogyny. Maristatter loves cats, books, and chocolate, in that order. Usually.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 8, 2023
The book started out good, but the over-the-top religious zealotry of the characters is off-putting. They're basically in a cult, know the cult leaders are lying, but still believe in and fervently worship the same God as their cult leaders. If their God loves them so much, and wants the best for them, he's doing a terrible job. Also, there are several references to a resistance movement, and the reader learns nothing about the group. Basically, they just run an illegal underground market, and write Liberté on walls occasionally. It's a pretty pathetic attempt at resistance especially since half the city knows about it. I wish the author had included a map of the split country. I'd like to know what former states make up the new country, and how big it is. Also, if they live by the ocean, what's stopping them from cobbling together a boat and leaving in the dead of night? The harbor is wildly desolate so it's unlikely the Guardian Angels regularly patrol it. Overall, I struggled to finish the book, and the characters deep belief in God was grating and unbelievable in the end. Even people living in North Korea have more self-awareness than these characters.
September 14, 2023
This book caught me by surprise. While Christian novels aren't usually to my taste (despite being one), this one really grabbed me by the throat and wouldn't let me go until I'd finished it.
It's not an action-packed read, but it's a deep, psychological book that looks at so many elements of the church, faith, and how our walks intersect with that. Further, the characters are excellent, the experiences they go through are so raw and so real, I found it hard to read at times. Not because it was badly written (the editing was clean, and the writing is good quality) but because I've experienced many of the things the main character has. Not in so extreme a manner, but I could relate to her so deeply.
The author's voice is compassionate, loving, and lovely. Even the bad things and hard things are treated with compassion and love, and there are very few characters for whom I have absolutely no empathy. Even the antagonists. There are probably two that I could punt into the sun and be satisfied with it. And they deserve it. You'll know when you meet them.
While the book's pacing isn't breakneck, it feels right for the story. The dystopian setting very much mirrors some of the things in play in the modern day, and evokes elements of A Handmaid's Tale without attempting to duplicate it. The story invites consideration, meditation on the things that happen in it, reflection, and also just tells a darn good story about a woman discovering herself, her place in life, and her own power in a world that works so hard to take those things from her.
I can't wait for book two.
It's not an action-packed read, but it's a deep, psychological book that looks at so many elements of the church, faith, and how our walks intersect with that. Further, the characters are excellent, the experiences they go through are so raw and so real, I found it hard to read at times. Not because it was badly written (the editing was clean, and the writing is good quality) but because I've experienced many of the things the main character has. Not in so extreme a manner, but I could relate to her so deeply.
The author's voice is compassionate, loving, and lovely. Even the bad things and hard things are treated with compassion and love, and there are very few characters for whom I have absolutely no empathy. Even the antagonists. There are probably two that I could punt into the sun and be satisfied with it. And they deserve it. You'll know when you meet them.
While the book's pacing isn't breakneck, it feels right for the story. The dystopian setting very much mirrors some of the things in play in the modern day, and evokes elements of A Handmaid's Tale without attempting to duplicate it. The story invites consideration, meditation on the things that happen in it, reflection, and also just tells a darn good story about a woman discovering herself, her place in life, and her own power in a world that works so hard to take those things from her.
I can't wait for book two.
March 25, 2023
This book was so good I didn't want it to end. I'm glad a sequel is on the horizon. From the first chapter, the teen girl's situation grabbed me. In Meryn's world, women live in fear of men, church leaders, and the state.
When Meryn's stepfather beats her mother to death, she's left to fend for herself. The law is on his side. Before her mom dies, she tells Meryn where to find a small stash of money and tells her to run. But where can a single woman go when she's required to marry or live at home?
Meryn hits the streets and discovers a subculture hidden in plain sight. It's hard to fit in when the government burdens everyone with a caste system, and the guards watch from every corner. Females report each other to avoid risking the unspeakable punishments. It's brainwashing at its worst. The whole society is a cult, and Meryn's life is at stake, though some things are worse than dying. No spoilers here.
L. Maristatter wrote a story that seemed so real, that I felt like I was experiencing the same hell as her main character. I literally caught myself gasping for air while reading this novel. The author did a marvelous job crafting fascinating characters, unpredictable twists, and vivid descriptions which stuck with me after I finished the book. It's a novel I will read again. It's that good. I highly recommend it.
When Meryn's stepfather beats her mother to death, she's left to fend for herself. The law is on his side. Before her mom dies, she tells Meryn where to find a small stash of money and tells her to run. But where can a single woman go when she's required to marry or live at home?
Meryn hits the streets and discovers a subculture hidden in plain sight. It's hard to fit in when the government burdens everyone with a caste system, and the guards watch from every corner. Females report each other to avoid risking the unspeakable punishments. It's brainwashing at its worst. The whole society is a cult, and Meryn's life is at stake, though some things are worse than dying. No spoilers here.
L. Maristatter wrote a story that seemed so real, that I felt like I was experiencing the same hell as her main character. I literally caught myself gasping for air while reading this novel. The author did a marvelous job crafting fascinating characters, unpredictable twists, and vivid descriptions which stuck with me after I finished the book. It's a novel I will read again. It's that good. I highly recommend it.
December 7, 2022
It starts off with a bang which sets the tone for the novel. Meryn, the main character, drew me in and I was rooting for her the entire way.
December 28, 2023
Good , but rather dark.
January 27, 2023
This book, unfortunately, is apropos to the times we're living in, or could be living in. But while the subject matter is dark in many ways, the reader has plenty of reason to stay with the story and to hope for a better future. We find ourselves rooting for the heroine and her friends, and mired in their journey to stand for what they, and many others, know is right. This author is skilled and the world she builds is one that grabs the leader and doesn't let go.
March 7, 2023
Following a second civil war, the United States of America is split in two. The Christian States of America has become the Christian equivalent of the Islamic states of Iran and Afghanistan. Although legally an adult, eighteen-year-old Meryn Flint lives at home with her mother and under the thumb of her stepfather. As the law requires, her stepfather is responsible for finding her a husband—the sooner the better. Following the death of her mother, at the hands of her stepfather, Meryn breaks free and finds sanctuary and a new life among a lower caste group of people living outside the law in a tiny house community.
Tiny Tin House, by L. Maristatter, leaves the starting gate with a burst of narrative, scope, and action that tends to provide a sense of Handmaiden's Tale or for some readers similarities to the dystopian world as described in 1984. The CSA is defined and organized into a governmental structure that ever larger numbers of people are coming to believe will be the future of what America will become; a theocratic autocracy. In her first novel, L. Maristatter has demonstrated authoring skills such as believable characters, detailed scene settings, and several plot lines that weave a web as sticky as any spider's creation to keep the reader glued to the story and turning the pages. Ms. Maristatter clearly knows her Bible and uses this knowledge to define and clarify the differences in personal religious belief against the misinterpreted, fanatical aspects of how powerful men misuse and abuse the Biblical teachings, especially as regards a women's place in the church, the home, and world at large. An in-the-park home run guaranteed to please readers interested in stories that speak to the realities of modern America, religious freedoms, and dystopian futures.
Tiny Tin House, by L. Maristatter, leaves the starting gate with a burst of narrative, scope, and action that tends to provide a sense of Handmaiden's Tale or for some readers similarities to the dystopian world as described in 1984. The CSA is defined and organized into a governmental structure that ever larger numbers of people are coming to believe will be the future of what America will become; a theocratic autocracy. In her first novel, L. Maristatter has demonstrated authoring skills such as believable characters, detailed scene settings, and several plot lines that weave a web as sticky as any spider's creation to keep the reader glued to the story and turning the pages. Ms. Maristatter clearly knows her Bible and uses this knowledge to define and clarify the differences in personal religious belief against the misinterpreted, fanatical aspects of how powerful men misuse and abuse the Biblical teachings, especially as regards a women's place in the church, the home, and world at large. An in-the-park home run guaranteed to please readers interested in stories that speak to the realities of modern America, religious freedoms, and dystopian futures.
September 26, 2023
Tiny Tin House is an elegantly told story of an unfortunately possible future if power hungry delusional charismatic faith leaders descend into the “Christian” version of Sharia law. I shiver…
The future L Maristatter portrays took only a few generations to develop. After the world is devastated, the US breaks up into little governances. The one our heroine, Meryn, dwells in uses a terribly disturbing anti-Biblical approach to legalized misogyny. One murder witnessed by a child should be more than enough, but when Meryn sees the continued hypocrisy of the state in which she lives, the murder of her mother, and the offhand response by the cops, or Guardian Angels, “Don’t worry, you can marry again,” to her stepfather, she finally realizes she must flee for her life. To top if off, dear old stepdad sells her to a man obsessed with her, willing to go to any lengths to get her.
The Christian States are broken beyond repair; even gardening and greenhouses are outlawed. Caste rules what people are allowed to do with their lives, much like slavery; and Biblical-based law and culture is horribly misinterpreted and enforced.
Friends living on the edge are Meryn’s safety net. But how can she drag them into the quagmire of her life and certain death if they’re exposed?
Real faith in the Christ who loves us all and the Holy Spirit who intercedes for us is the foundation of this engaging and horrifying alternate life. I kept turning pages to find out what would happen next.
I agreed to provide an unbiased review for the author, and highly recommend this to anyone who like inspirational, edgy fiction, and dystopian lit.
The future L Maristatter portrays took only a few generations to develop. After the world is devastated, the US breaks up into little governances. The one our heroine, Meryn, dwells in uses a terribly disturbing anti-Biblical approach to legalized misogyny. One murder witnessed by a child should be more than enough, but when Meryn sees the continued hypocrisy of the state in which she lives, the murder of her mother, and the offhand response by the cops, or Guardian Angels, “Don’t worry, you can marry again,” to her stepfather, she finally realizes she must flee for her life. To top if off, dear old stepdad sells her to a man obsessed with her, willing to go to any lengths to get her.
The Christian States are broken beyond repair; even gardening and greenhouses are outlawed. Caste rules what people are allowed to do with their lives, much like slavery; and Biblical-based law and culture is horribly misinterpreted and enforced.
Friends living on the edge are Meryn’s safety net. But how can she drag them into the quagmire of her life and certain death if they’re exposed?
Real faith in the Christ who loves us all and the Holy Spirit who intercedes for us is the foundation of this engaging and horrifying alternate life. I kept turning pages to find out what would happen next.
I agreed to provide an unbiased review for the author, and highly recommend this to anyone who like inspirational, edgy fiction, and dystopian lit.
November 25, 2024
**Book Review: *Tiny Tin House* by L. Maristatter**
In Tiny Tin House, L. Maristatter crafts a gripping story of dystopian theocracy. The novel follows the journey of Meryn Flint, whose decision to flee her family duty and escape her stepfather's clutches leads you on a riveting journey through the different class levels of the Christian States of America where women have virtually no freedom.
Maristatter deftly explores the emotional landscape of her characters, delving into themes of loneliness, connection, and the quest for meaning in this dystopian world.
One of the most compelling aspects of Tiny Tin House is its exploration of community and belonging. As Meryn navigates her new life, she discovers the importance of relationships and the support that can be found in unexpected places.
Overall, Tiny Tin House is a thoughtful and beautifully written novel. Looking forward to the next installation.
In Tiny Tin House, L. Maristatter crafts a gripping story of dystopian theocracy. The novel follows the journey of Meryn Flint, whose decision to flee her family duty and escape her stepfather's clutches leads you on a riveting journey through the different class levels of the Christian States of America where women have virtually no freedom.
Maristatter deftly explores the emotional landscape of her characters, delving into themes of loneliness, connection, and the quest for meaning in this dystopian world.
One of the most compelling aspects of Tiny Tin House is its exploration of community and belonging. As Meryn navigates her new life, she discovers the importance of relationships and the support that can be found in unexpected places.
Overall, Tiny Tin House is a thoughtful and beautifully written novel. Looking forward to the next installation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2024
I found I didn't want to put this book down once I started reading it. I finished it in two days. The story follows Meryn Flint as she tries to navigate life as an 18 year old single woman in a society that elevates church and it's absolute control over women and in this society a single woman is basically the property of her father, stepfather, husband or the male who is head of the family. In this case, it is Ray, Meryn's stepfather. In the beginning of the book, he murders her mother, leaving Meryn in his care. He attempts to force her into marriage with a cruel man who is their superior in this society so he can gain caste status. She runs .......and goes to her only real friend and with the help of her friend's grandmother Mags, they devise a plan to help Meryn. This book is well written and I'm anxiously awaiting another book by this author. I'm hoping it's another book about this society and this becomes a series. I enjoyed it tremendously!
April 21, 2023
I liked it
Tiny Tin House is a good story and very easy read. I thought at the beginning it should commit more to dystopian setting. It seemed to have random futuristic details without enough world building to back them up. A dystopian Christian theocracy is an interesting subject but the details weren’t all there. It got better as the story on. There were some pacing issues towards the middle but it picked up in the last third. It is written in a similar style to a wattpad fanfiction. I loved the message of found family and having faith even when religion is being used to oppress you. Overall interesting ideas.
Tiny Tin House is a good story and very easy read. I thought at the beginning it should commit more to dystopian setting. It seemed to have random futuristic details without enough world building to back them up. A dystopian Christian theocracy is an interesting subject but the details weren’t all there. It got better as the story on. There were some pacing issues towards the middle but it picked up in the last third. It is written in a similar style to a wattpad fanfiction. I loved the message of found family and having faith even when religion is being used to oppress you. Overall interesting ideas.
October 22, 2023
This is a very well-written novel. It deals with the plight of a young woman, Meryn, who rebels against a fundamentalist Christian society where men have all the power. The main character is strong, sympathetic, and smart; the author really makes the reader care about her plight. The other characters are also interesting and fit very well into the story, especially Ray, Meryn’s cruel stepfather. And the corrupt, futuristic society depicted by the author is both scary and all-too realistic. A compelling, thought-provoking book.
June 22, 2024
This is a very well written book, with some brilliant pieces of prose spoken by believeable, well-developed characters. The message is one we all better pay attention to, now. This is not fiction, it is prediction. It is a logical projection of where we could end up in just a few generations if we lose the separation between church and state in this country.
I hope young people, both women and men, will read this book and use their imaginations to realize how this could happen, and how the resistance would be weakened as this way of life becomes normalized.
I hope young people, both women and men, will read this book and use their imaginations to realize how this could happen, and how the resistance would be weakened as this way of life becomes normalized.
April 7, 2023
I really loved the idea of this book. The only issue I had with it is the constant scripture and preachiness throughout. I still think I would want to read a sequel to it to find out what happens.
I want to add that I received this for free through a Goodreads giveaway and this is my honest review.
I want to add that I received this for free through a Goodreads giveaway and this is my honest review.
April 9, 2023
It was an interesting concept. I don't think I've read anything like this. I felt bad for Meryn and what she went through, but I was rooting for her.
I won this book on goodreads-giveaways. Thank you.
I won this book on goodreads-giveaways. Thank you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2024
I don't even know what I just read. So many things happened but little got resolved. I kept waiting for something to make sense. And then it just......ended. Even if there was a second book, I wouldn't read it. Would not recommend.
February 11, 2025
This book was really good. I experienced every emotion. The author has a beautiful writing style that allowed me to truly picture the scenery. Meryn is an amazing and strong woman. I can’t wait to experience the next book!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews