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Longing for Liberty
From New York Times bestselling author Wendy Higgins comes a sexy, genre-bending adult dystopian about a post-war United States of America.
Before World War III, Liberty Carson remembers what it was like to chase her dream and become a writer. She vividly recalls the feeling of her three precious children crowding her lap and her husband’s smiling face when he used to laugh. She still dreams of eating international street food in Baltimore. And sometimes, she envies this newer generation who never knew the taste of freedom.
Libby cannot forget what her country was like when it was still fifty states. Before the war turned half of the U.S. into dust and radiation. Before three men rose to power and sanitized what was left into their macabre version of America. Long before making a living meant taking whatever job they chose for her.
Now, she’s entering the penthouse of one of those powerful men, wearing her maid’s uniform, woefully unprepared to be in the presence of the unnervingly handsome Amos Fitzhugh, who gives off the distinct dark energy of domination. Libby distrusts everything about this man and what he stands for. She hates how he looks at her and how she can’t help but react, even in the face of her marriage vows.
If he plans to use her, she will return the favor, all the while stoking the ashes of the raging phoenix inside her soul, intent on revolution. Caught in a devious web of power, desire, and deadly secrets, Liberty will get one shot to burn it to the ground.
Before World War III, Liberty Carson remembers what it was like to chase her dream and become a writer. She vividly recalls the feeling of her three precious children crowding her lap and her husband’s smiling face when he used to laugh. She still dreams of eating international street food in Baltimore. And sometimes, she envies this newer generation who never knew the taste of freedom.
Libby cannot forget what her country was like when it was still fifty states. Before the war turned half of the U.S. into dust and radiation. Before three men rose to power and sanitized what was left into their macabre version of America. Long before making a living meant taking whatever job they chose for her.
Now, she’s entering the penthouse of one of those powerful men, wearing her maid’s uniform, woefully unprepared to be in the presence of the unnervingly handsome Amos Fitzhugh, who gives off the distinct dark energy of domination. Libby distrusts everything about this man and what he stands for. She hates how he looks at her and how she can’t help but react, even in the face of her marriage vows.
If he plans to use her, she will return the favor, all the while stoking the ashes of the raging phoenix inside her soul, intent on revolution. Caught in a devious web of power, desire, and deadly secrets, Liberty will get one shot to burn it to the ground.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2025
13 people are currently reading
220 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Higgins
20 books7,954 followersWendy Higgins is a USA Today and NY Times bestselling author.
After earning a Creative Writing degree from George Mason University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford, Wendy taught high school English until achieving her dream job as a full-time writer.
After earning a Creative Writing degree from George Mason University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford, Wendy taught high school English until achieving her dream job as a full-time writer.
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September 5, 2025This book is a dark dystopian (think THE HANDMAID'S TALE), an alternate version of the USA. The ebook will only be available on my selling platform (https://payhip.com/dashboard) but the paperback will be available on September 23 on various platforms. This is my most genre-bending book yet.
Trigger Warnings
The following sensitive topics are found on the page or alluded to heavily in this story.
Racism, misogyny, ableism, ageism, homophobia, transphobia, violence, war, rape, drugging, adultery, oppression, cultism, domestic violence, slavery, boss/worker abuse, and miscarriage.
Trigger Warnings
The following sensitive topics are found on the page or alluded to heavily in this story.
Racism, misogyny, ableism, ageism, homophobia, transphobia, violence, war, rape, drugging, adultery, oppression, cultism, domestic violence, slavery, boss/worker abuse, and miscarriage.
September 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Key Themes:
- Forced proximity (boss/employee)
- Psychological Trauma
- Femme fatale vengeance/revenge
Think: Hunger games for adults meets handmaids tale
“If you try to fight clean against the dirty, the filth will get on you and weigh you down. The only way to win against scum when the playing field was so low was to play just as dirty. Or dirtier.”
Wow, this one was a doozy to read for so many reasons. First & foremost - Wendy Higgins is an INCREDIBLE writer. This is the first book I’ve read by her & I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to get an ARC copy, not just for the book itself but because I have now been introduced to her as a writer.
Longing for Liberty follows the story of Liberty (Libby) and her husband, Jeremy, as they navigate a dystopian America where everyone left alive has been rounded up and sectioned off into 4 different “communities” and assigned roles. Libby is assigned to work for one of the 3 main leaders of “The State” - what has replaced the US - and, in the process of her employment, learns things no layperson in The State should know…things she inevitably uses to her advantage.
If you weren’t already aware, literature is inherently political and this book, while fiction, does not shy away from this truth. Reading this book was chilling at times because, whether intended or not, the parallels between the book events and what is currently occurring in our own country are striking. Sobering. Downright scary.
Not only was the story written in both an eloquent and captivating way, everything is NOT as it seems - the twist near the end quite literally left me in tears. But never fear, they were not tears of sadness…but tears of absolute joy.
While there WERE spicy scenes, I’d be hard pressed to consider this a “spicy” book - sex is used by the FMC as a weapon to further her own plans, and the scenes are well written, but spice is not the focal point. There is also one very brutal SA scene that is NOT described in detail on page, but alluded to after its conclusion.
Overall, this book and everything about it deserves all 5 stars I have given it. There is little that could’ve made this book better than it already was…but it does leave me wanting for more. Like Rebecca & Stanley’s story. Or Wright’s story. Maybe one day!
🌶️🌶️
Key Themes:
- Forced proximity (boss/employee)
- Psychological Trauma
- Femme fatale vengeance/revenge
Think: Hunger games for adults meets handmaids tale
“If you try to fight clean against the dirty, the filth will get on you and weigh you down. The only way to win against scum when the playing field was so low was to play just as dirty. Or dirtier.”
Wow, this one was a doozy to read for so many reasons. First & foremost - Wendy Higgins is an INCREDIBLE writer. This is the first book I’ve read by her & I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to get an ARC copy, not just for the book itself but because I have now been introduced to her as a writer.
Longing for Liberty follows the story of Liberty (Libby) and her husband, Jeremy, as they navigate a dystopian America where everyone left alive has been rounded up and sectioned off into 4 different “communities” and assigned roles. Libby is assigned to work for one of the 3 main leaders of “The State” - what has replaced the US - and, in the process of her employment, learns things no layperson in The State should know…things she inevitably uses to her advantage.
If you weren’t already aware, literature is inherently political and this book, while fiction, does not shy away from this truth. Reading this book was chilling at times because, whether intended or not, the parallels between the book events and what is currently occurring in our own country are striking. Sobering. Downright scary.
Not only was the story written in both an eloquent and captivating way, everything is NOT as it seems - the twist near the end quite literally left me in tears. But never fear, they were not tears of sadness…but tears of absolute joy.
While there WERE spicy scenes, I’d be hard pressed to consider this a “spicy” book - sex is used by the FMC as a weapon to further her own plans, and the scenes are well written, but spice is not the focal point. There is also one very brutal SA scene that is NOT described in detail on page, but alluded to after its conclusion.
Overall, this book and everything about it deserves all 5 stars I have given it. There is little that could’ve made this book better than it already was…but it does leave me wanting for more. Like Rebecca & Stanley’s story. Or Wright’s story. Maybe one day!
September 24, 2025
Longing for Liberty is the kind of story that sneaks up on you—in the best way possible. It’s not a genre I would typically gravitate toward, yet from the very first chapter Wendy Higgins had me completely hooked. This book blends real-life issues with high-stakes, unique scenarios that keep you turning the pages long after you should have set it down. Higgins doesn’t just write a story; she crafts an experience that pulls you in emotionally, mentally, and even morally, as you consider the risks, sacrifices, and determination that define her characters.
At the heart of the novel is Liberty, a woman whose courage and conviction are as inspiring as they are nerve-wracking. Liberty’s mission feels both personal and universal, touching on themes of justice, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom. What really stood out to me, however, was the dynamic between Liberty and her husband. His steady calm in the face of her dangerous pursuit provided a fascinating counterbalance to the intensity of Liberty’s journey. Personally, I don’t know how he managed such composure—because if my wife were on a mission like that, I’d be pacing the floor in panic. That dynamic gave the story a deeply human element, grounding the larger themes in something intimate and relatable.
What makes Higgins’ storytelling so addictive is her ability to weave tension into every chapter while still delivering characters you genuinely care about. Liberty’s bravery isn’t portrayed as superhuman or detached; instead, Higgins gives us a protagonist who is flawed, determined, and very real. Add to that a plot that raises important social questions while still delivering excitement and intrigue, and you have a book that resonates on multiple levels.
For someone like me, who doesn’t normally dive into this genre, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Higgins has a gift for pulling readers out of their comfort zones and into a story that feels both urgent and necessary. By the time I reached the end, I wasn’t just invested in Liberty’s mission—I was eager to see what comes next.
Longing for Liberty is bold, heartfelt, and unforgettable. It’s a story that blends danger with hope, grit with compassion, and realism with imagination. Whether or not you typically read this genre, this is a book that will hold your attention and remind you why stepping outside your usual reading lane can lead to some of the most rewarding experiences.
At the heart of the novel is Liberty, a woman whose courage and conviction are as inspiring as they are nerve-wracking. Liberty’s mission feels both personal and universal, touching on themes of justice, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom. What really stood out to me, however, was the dynamic between Liberty and her husband. His steady calm in the face of her dangerous pursuit provided a fascinating counterbalance to the intensity of Liberty’s journey. Personally, I don’t know how he managed such composure—because if my wife were on a mission like that, I’d be pacing the floor in panic. That dynamic gave the story a deeply human element, grounding the larger themes in something intimate and relatable.
What makes Higgins’ storytelling so addictive is her ability to weave tension into every chapter while still delivering characters you genuinely care about. Liberty’s bravery isn’t portrayed as superhuman or detached; instead, Higgins gives us a protagonist who is flawed, determined, and very real. Add to that a plot that raises important social questions while still delivering excitement and intrigue, and you have a book that resonates on multiple levels.
For someone like me, who doesn’t normally dive into this genre, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Higgins has a gift for pulling readers out of their comfort zones and into a story that feels both urgent and necessary. By the time I reached the end, I wasn’t just invested in Liberty’s mission—I was eager to see what comes next.
Longing for Liberty is bold, heartfelt, and unforgettable. It’s a story that blends danger with hope, grit with compassion, and realism with imagination. Whether or not you typically read this genre, this is a book that will hold your attention and remind you why stepping outside your usual reading lane can lead to some of the most rewarding experiences.
September 22, 2025
Thank you Wendy Higgins and Love Notes PR. I was given this book as an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
This was my first read by Wendy Higgins, and honestly…I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. I don’t usually reach for historical or war romances, but Longing for Liberty surprised me. The dystopian side of the story kept me hooked in a way I wasn’t prepared for.
The book blends a post-WWIII setting with dystopian romance vibes, and that mix felt fresh. From the very beginning (epilogue included) I was both curious and a little scared about everything going on and this would be a D.N.F. but dang, it was good. The AI capabilities the author mentions? Wild! The scariest part is, they don’t feel that far-fetched in our real world.
I’ve got to confess…the cover is what grabbed me first. 😅 It’s beautiful and made me want to dive in. Inside, the story delivered tension, politics, survival, and a romance with some serious psychological weight. The power imbalance between men and women was tough to read in places, definitely something that could be triggering depending on the reader, but it made sense for the world Higgins built.
I loved that even though this has elements I usually avoid (war and politics), I actually enjoyed the ride. The political mentions went a bit over my head here and there, but they didn’t take away from the story. If anything, they made the setting feel more layered.
As much as I hate to admit it to myself, I’d probably read more “war books” if they were written half as well as this one. Higgins gave me something different, tense, and thought-provoking, and I think that’s why it worked for me. I’ll be looking out for more from this author.
Happy reading friends,
~ Maebae 💚
This was my first read by Wendy Higgins, and honestly…I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. I don’t usually reach for historical or war romances, but Longing for Liberty surprised me. The dystopian side of the story kept me hooked in a way I wasn’t prepared for.
The book blends a post-WWIII setting with dystopian romance vibes, and that mix felt fresh. From the very beginning (epilogue included) I was both curious and a little scared about everything going on and this would be a D.N.F. but dang, it was good. The AI capabilities the author mentions? Wild! The scariest part is, they don’t feel that far-fetched in our real world.
I’ve got to confess…the cover is what grabbed me first. 😅 It’s beautiful and made me want to dive in. Inside, the story delivered tension, politics, survival, and a romance with some serious psychological weight. The power imbalance between men and women was tough to read in places, definitely something that could be triggering depending on the reader, but it made sense for the world Higgins built.
I loved that even though this has elements I usually avoid (war and politics), I actually enjoyed the ride. The political mentions went a bit over my head here and there, but they didn’t take away from the story. If anything, they made the setting feel more layered.
As much as I hate to admit it to myself, I’d probably read more “war books” if they were written half as well as this one. Higgins gave me something different, tense, and thought-provoking, and I think that’s why it worked for me. I’ll be looking out for more from this author.
Happy reading friends,
~ Maebae 💚
November 18, 2025
Dark Dystopian with Spice and Teeth
- Power imbalance (undeniable boss/employee)
- Forced proximity
- Psychological Trauma
- Rebellion
- Heroine fighting for others
- Heroine seeking retribution
The Handmaid's Tale meets Frieda McFadden. A must-read for today, and for anyone who discounted Margaret Atwood's warnings.
Wendy Higgins has an incredible ability to craft heroines who don't know they are heroes. Liberty isn't superhuman. She doesn't wield an arrow like Katniss. She's gaunt from grief, rage, and lack of food at the beginning, but she's a beautiful, fiesty redheaded former romance writer trying to keep herself in check as she trudges back and forth to work every day as a maid while avoiding surveillance drones and police puffed up on their own authority. But then she gets chosen to serve as a maid to the 2nd most important man in the new version of American political leadership.
The writing was so spare and carefully rendered that it left room for all the emotion to fly off the page. The spice was original and dark, but what blew me away was the tension, the careful balance of kindness and predatory behavior that Wendy brought to Amos, making him such a perfect morally grey character that I wasn't sure until the last few pages where he was going to end up. The knife's edge of creepy versus kind was sliver thin, leaving it unclear exactly what shade of morally dark grey he would turn out to be.
My heart broke for Liberty so many times, and yet her empathy wasn't reserved for herself. Her goodness shone from her in dozens of small ways, and it was incredible to see her character arc as she truly emerged into a unique and memorable character that deserves to be remembered long after the book is closed.
- Power imbalance (undeniable boss/employee)
- Forced proximity
- Psychological Trauma
- Rebellion
- Heroine fighting for others
- Heroine seeking retribution
The Handmaid's Tale meets Frieda McFadden. A must-read for today, and for anyone who discounted Margaret Atwood's warnings.
Wendy Higgins has an incredible ability to craft heroines who don't know they are heroes. Liberty isn't superhuman. She doesn't wield an arrow like Katniss. She's gaunt from grief, rage, and lack of food at the beginning, but she's a beautiful, fiesty redheaded former romance writer trying to keep herself in check as she trudges back and forth to work every day as a maid while avoiding surveillance drones and police puffed up on their own authority. But then she gets chosen to serve as a maid to the 2nd most important man in the new version of American political leadership.
The writing was so spare and carefully rendered that it left room for all the emotion to fly off the page. The spice was original and dark, but what blew me away was the tension, the careful balance of kindness and predatory behavior that Wendy brought to Amos, making him such a perfect morally grey character that I wasn't sure until the last few pages where he was going to end up. The knife's edge of creepy versus kind was sliver thin, leaving it unclear exactly what shade of morally dark grey he would turn out to be.
My heart broke for Liberty so many times, and yet her empathy wasn't reserved for herself. Her goodness shone from her in dozens of small ways, and it was incredible to see her character arc as she truly emerged into a unique and memorable character that deserves to be remembered long after the book is closed.
September 24, 2025
Oh boy. This book is heavy. It's also scary. And makes me realize I'm very much like Liberty six years prior to the worst day of the lives in the USA.
I don't know how Libby did it. How she was with Amos the way she was. How she conformed to the new society. How she was able to seem meek and lowly wheen she had so much rage and anger and justice inside of her. I would not have survived the beginning years. I would have fought tooth and nail. I would have ended it all before becoming a slave. My temperament would not be able to hold my sharp tongue or expressive face.
This book made me uncomfortable because for the Itty bitty little bit I've seen in today's news, I feel like this isn't far off from our world. And that is probably the scariest nightmare I'll ever have. I should be more aware of what's going on and invoke my rights, but I'm just hiding away, hoping it will go away.
Libby is a hero. She sacrificed herself, her mind, her body, her soul, to penetrate the situation and got results. She deserves happiness and from the ending we got it looks like she's on her way there.
This book is unlike anything I've read. I tend to read happy romances. But Wendy Higgins is an auto read and buy author, so i knew i had to read this novel. And while it was definitely uncomfortable, it brought a lot of thoughts and realizations to me that will stay with me for years to come I'm sure.
I don't know how Libby did it. How she was with Amos the way she was. How she conformed to the new society. How she was able to seem meek and lowly wheen she had so much rage and anger and justice inside of her. I would not have survived the beginning years. I would have fought tooth and nail. I would have ended it all before becoming a slave. My temperament would not be able to hold my sharp tongue or expressive face.
This book made me uncomfortable because for the Itty bitty little bit I've seen in today's news, I feel like this isn't far off from our world. And that is probably the scariest nightmare I'll ever have. I should be more aware of what's going on and invoke my rights, but I'm just hiding away, hoping it will go away.
Libby is a hero. She sacrificed herself, her mind, her body, her soul, to penetrate the situation and got results. She deserves happiness and from the ending we got it looks like she's on her way there.
This book is unlike anything I've read. I tend to read happy romances. But Wendy Higgins is an auto read and buy author, so i knew i had to read this novel. And while it was definitely uncomfortable, it brought a lot of thoughts and realizations to me that will stay with me for years to come I'm sure.
September 23, 2025
Before World War III, Liberty Carson had dreams—of writing, of love, of tasting life beyond borders. But now, in a fractured, authoritarian America rebuilt from ashes, all she has are memories, a uniform, and a job cleaning up after the powerful.
This dystopian story is gripping from the very first page. Liberty is a bold, complex heroine whose quiet strength and inner fire make her unforgettable. Her reflections on the past add emotional depth, while her present-day struggle pulses with intensity and purpose.
Amos Hempshire, one of the powerful rulers of the new regime, brings mystery, danger, and undeniable chemistry to the story. The tension between him and Libby crackles, creating a dynamic that’s both provocative and thrilling. Every interaction is laced with power, intrigue, and unspoken truths.
The world-building is vivid and immersive, offering a chilling vision of a post-war America, and the plot masterfully blends danger, desire, and the spark of rebellion. There’s an undercurrent of revolution in every scene, and watching Liberty step into her power is deeply satisfying.
This dystopian story is gripping from the very first page. Liberty is a bold, complex heroine whose quiet strength and inner fire make her unforgettable. Her reflections on the past add emotional depth, while her present-day struggle pulses with intensity and purpose.
Amos Hempshire, one of the powerful rulers of the new regime, brings mystery, danger, and undeniable chemistry to the story. The tension between him and Libby crackles, creating a dynamic that’s both provocative and thrilling. Every interaction is laced with power, intrigue, and unspoken truths.
The world-building is vivid and immersive, offering a chilling vision of a post-war America, and the plot masterfully blends danger, desire, and the spark of rebellion. There’s an undercurrent of revolution in every scene, and watching Liberty step into her power is deeply satisfying.
November 19, 2025
Let Freedom Ring!
This book isn’t a traditional Wendy Higgins novel. It’s a stark and chilling look at one possible future-America, where corruption runs unchecked and voiceless women are treated as bargaining chips in the games of powerful men.
This is not a romance. It is a fierce, emotionally charged story about survival, agency, and the cost of rebellion.
Wendy paints a disturbingly plausible dystopia, one built on political decay, institutional cruelty, and the erosion of personal liberties. She has created the kind of world that feels uncomfortably close, which makes the story hit even harder.
The pacing is sharp. The stakes are high. The story, often uncomfortable, but too gripping to put down.
Higgins doesn’t shy away from darkness, but she also offers glimmers of hope through small acts of defiance that remind you why the fight matters.
Fans of dystopian fiction that leans into political corruption, gritty realism, and fierce female resilience will find this story deeply satisfying and impossible to forget.
This book isn’t a traditional Wendy Higgins novel. It’s a stark and chilling look at one possible future-America, where corruption runs unchecked and voiceless women are treated as bargaining chips in the games of powerful men.
This is not a romance. It is a fierce, emotionally charged story about survival, agency, and the cost of rebellion.
Wendy paints a disturbingly plausible dystopia, one built on political decay, institutional cruelty, and the erosion of personal liberties. She has created the kind of world that feels uncomfortably close, which makes the story hit even harder.
The pacing is sharp. The stakes are high. The story, often uncomfortable, but too gripping to put down.
Higgins doesn’t shy away from darkness, but she also offers glimmers of hope through small acts of defiance that remind you why the fight matters.
Fans of dystopian fiction that leans into political corruption, gritty realism, and fierce female resilience will find this story deeply satisfying and impossible to forget.
December 23, 2025
Longing for Liberty is a crazy read. It’s basically if you took the current political state of the US and pushed it even further, to the point where a literal cult has control of the US government.
All medical knowledge has been “debunked” and God is the one who decides who survives diseases, plagues, and other ailments. But don’t worry! The rich cult members have access to “herbal remedies” that are actually just the medical advances we’ve made that everyone knows work! But only SOME people deserve access to medicine. Everyone who isn’t white has been segregated and shipped off to Florida, because society needs to be kept “pure.”
Media has been banned and replaced with State Force, a news outlet run by the government that is the only one allowed to report on anything. Higgins opens every chapter with a headline from State Force and it’s uncanny how well she’s nailed Trump’s speech patterns. I guess I don’t know for sure that’s where she took inspiration from, but I could picture his voice reading each headline because they perfectly match his cadence and grammatical choices.
I personally feel like the end wrapped up too neatly and seemed almost cheesy with how… optimistic everyone was. These characters suffered severe trauma but seemed to bounce back very quickly.
All medical knowledge has been “debunked” and God is the one who decides who survives diseases, plagues, and other ailments. But don’t worry! The rich cult members have access to “herbal remedies” that are actually just the medical advances we’ve made that everyone knows work! But only SOME people deserve access to medicine. Everyone who isn’t white has been segregated and shipped off to Florida, because society needs to be kept “pure.”
Media has been banned and replaced with State Force, a news outlet run by the government that is the only one allowed to report on anything. Higgins opens every chapter with a headline from State Force and it’s uncanny how well she’s nailed Trump’s speech patterns. I guess I don’t know for sure that’s where she took inspiration from, but I could picture his voice reading each headline because they perfectly match his cadence and grammatical choices.
I personally feel like the end wrapped up too neatly and seemed almost cheesy with how… optimistic everyone was. These characters suffered severe trauma but seemed to bounce back very quickly.
September 18, 2025
What to expect:
😏 Forced Proximity
🏢 Boss x Employee
🧠 Psychological Societal Trauma
💋 Femme Fatale
✊🏻 Underground Resistance
Before World War III, Liberty dreamed of being a writer. Now, with half the U.S. in ruins and power in the hands of three ruthless men, she finds herself in the penthouse of Amos Hempshire. Fueled by desire, secrets, and a fire to burn it all down, Libby’s fight for survival uncomfortably close to our own world. Think The Handmaid’s Tale meets modern history.
As a general rule, I don’t like giving books less than 3 stars. This one had moments where it felt like it was trying a bit too hard to be The Handmaid’s Tale — almost like fanfic at times — but it was still compelling enough to keep me turning the pages. Dark, heavy, and occasionally frustrating, but worth the read if you enjoy dystopian drama.
‼️ Check content warnings before diving in ‼️
😏 Forced Proximity
🏢 Boss x Employee
🧠 Psychological Societal Trauma
💋 Femme Fatale
✊🏻 Underground Resistance
Before World War III, Liberty dreamed of being a writer. Now, with half the U.S. in ruins and power in the hands of three ruthless men, she finds herself in the penthouse of Amos Hempshire. Fueled by desire, secrets, and a fire to burn it all down, Libby’s fight for survival uncomfortably close to our own world. Think The Handmaid’s Tale meets modern history.
As a general rule, I don’t like giving books less than 3 stars. This one had moments where it felt like it was trying a bit too hard to be The Handmaid’s Tale — almost like fanfic at times — but it was still compelling enough to keep me turning the pages. Dark, heavy, and occasionally frustrating, but worth the read if you enjoy dystopian drama.
‼️ Check content warnings before diving in ‼️
September 19, 2025
Wendy freaking Higgins has done it again. Longing for Liberty is hands down one of my favorite books I’ve read this year. It is a dark dystopian, similar to the handmaid tale, and is unlike any of Higgins previous books. It has romance in it, but the romance is not the centre of the story.
Higgins showcases her brilliant ability to step outside of her “norm” and tells a story that perfectly encapsulates a “primal scream of female rage”. This book has everything you’d want in a novel—political strife, spice 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️, dynamic characters and a badass femme heroine that fights back against a system of oppression. The world Liberty lives in has parallels to the political environment we live in, but do not let that deter you. Instead let Liberty’s courage inspire you to let your inner phoenix raise from its ashes and fight for what you believe in.
Higgins showcases her brilliant ability to step outside of her “norm” and tells a story that perfectly encapsulates a “primal scream of female rage”. This book has everything you’d want in a novel—political strife, spice 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️, dynamic characters and a badass femme heroine that fights back against a system of oppression. The world Liberty lives in has parallels to the political environment we live in, but do not let that deter you. Instead let Liberty’s courage inspire you to let your inner phoenix raise from its ashes and fight for what you believe in.
September 23, 2025
Longing for Liberty is an intense and captivating dystopian romance that kept me hooked from the start. Liberty Carson’s journey is full of heart, as she navigates a world that strips her of freedom and tests her resilience. The setting is vividly imagined, immersing readers in a society ruled by oppression and strict control. Amos Fitzhugh is enigmatic, powerful, and undeniably magnetic, creating an irresistible tension between him and Liberty. Their forced closeness makes every interaction charged with emotion and suspense. The romance builds slowly, layered with passion, vulnerability, and moral complexity. Higgins expertly blends danger, desire, and personal growth, keeping the story dynamic and gripping. This novel is perfect for readers who love high-stakes romance with heart, intensity, and unforgettable characters.
- Vanesa Gjolaj, Author Of “The Enchanted Manuscript”
- Vanesa Gjolaj, Author Of “The Enchanted Manuscript”
September 23, 2025
Talk about HEAVY. 😮💨
I've been a fan of Wendy's YA work for years, so when I saw her newest adult book on an ARC list I *RAN* to apply.
Longing For Liberty is a dark (DARK) Dystopian set in America post WW3. It's heavily political and i find myself constantly drawing parallels between the events happening in the book and what's happening in real life.
It's terrifying, it's orwellian, and I can absolutely picture it all coming real a mile a minute.
I'm really took my time with this one because it was messing with my head. The writing and storytelling is truly SUPERB. Its all very well done.
By the end I was a SOBBING MESS.
Even as I write this review, the tears are streaming down my cheeks.
Longing for Liberty is going to be a very impactful read for a lot of people I think.
Thank you lovenotespr for the ARC.
I've been a fan of Wendy's YA work for years, so when I saw her newest adult book on an ARC list I *RAN* to apply.
Longing For Liberty is a dark (DARK) Dystopian set in America post WW3. It's heavily political and i find myself constantly drawing parallels between the events happening in the book and what's happening in real life.
It's terrifying, it's orwellian, and I can absolutely picture it all coming real a mile a minute.
I'm really took my time with this one because it was messing with my head. The writing and storytelling is truly SUPERB. Its all very well done.
By the end I was a SOBBING MESS.
Even as I write this review, the tears are streaming down my cheeks.
Longing for Liberty is going to be a very impactful read for a lot of people I think.
Thank you lovenotespr for the ARC.
October 8, 2025
WOW. This book will sit with me for a while. I highly recommend picking up a copy if you want to be able to think about what COULD happen if the wrong leaders are in charge. My heart broke for the community and broke for the main character, Liberty.
There is DEFINITELY some smut in this book, so read the triggers beforehand if that’s not your thing.
I felt so much for the man characters that the last chapter and epilogue had me in tears. This was beautifully written and truly makes you think. About what you would do in their situation. About if you would be strong enough mentally and physically. About what actually matters to you. About what we take for granted.
This book is based in the future, after a WW3 had occurred, where those in charge have created a New America. The land *not* of the free.
There is DEFINITELY some smut in this book, so read the triggers beforehand if that’s not your thing.
I felt so much for the man characters that the last chapter and epilogue had me in tears. This was beautifully written and truly makes you think. About what you would do in their situation. About if you would be strong enough mentally and physically. About what actually matters to you. About what we take for granted.
This book is based in the future, after a WW3 had occurred, where those in charge have created a New America. The land *not* of the free.
September 27, 2025
This book terrified me in ways I never thought possible. Beautifully written and honing in on all the ways the main character Libby sacrifices herself throughout her journey of this Dark Dystopian America. Author Wendy Higgins tastefully weaves in romance, spice, and passion alongside feminine rage and revenge. After reading ‘The Handmaids Tale’ I thought I was prepped and ready for another dark dystopian based in the USA. However, I was very wrong. The way the author has taken this dystopian drama and crafted it in a way so similar and yet so unlike the handmaids tale. As I stated before this book was terrifying realistic. And I highly recommend everyone give this a read. Please check all content warnings before reading.
September 21, 2025
🖤Arc review.🖤
I’d love to thank the author for giving the opportunity to read this ARC💋♥️
Please read the trigger warnings before diving into this book, your mental health matters first.💋🖤
I had a lot of time to process and I thoroughly enjoyed this book, this story was very well written. I felt so connected with the character and the plot. The character development was amazing, the tension, the thoughts, the longing, and this whole new society was created and changed people’s lives so much.
Overall, I recommend reading this book, I could not put it down, I was very intrigued and I devoured the story. Thank you so much, babes.💋💋
I’d love to thank the author for giving the opportunity to read this ARC💋♥️
Please read the trigger warnings before diving into this book, your mental health matters first.💋🖤
I had a lot of time to process and I thoroughly enjoyed this book, this story was very well written. I felt so connected with the character and the plot. The character development was amazing, the tension, the thoughts, the longing, and this whole new society was created and changed people’s lives so much.
Overall, I recommend reading this book, I could not put it down, I was very intrigued and I devoured the story. Thank you so much, babes.💋💋
September 23, 2025
Set in a brutal post–World War III America, the story follows Liberty "Libby" Carson, a former wife and mother who’s now trapped under a regime that strips away freedom and controls every aspect of life. When she crosses paths with Amos Fitzhugh, one of the powerful men who still holds influence over what’s left of the country, she’s forced to navigate distrust, survival, and a dangerous attraction. What I loved most was how Libby quietly fuels rebellion, holding onto her fire even in the darkest times. This book has all the tension, twists, and raw emotion that kept me hooked. Thought-provoking, haunting, and empowering.
October 2, 2025
I loved this book so so much, Wendy write an horrific world for women, and inside of it, she infuse hope for a better world. At least for a woman, shy at first, she became a fighter.
It's easy to see an apocalytic world actually, because the world is a mess, but in Longing for Liberty, it's about autoritarism, power over people and women, separations of people by race, sex, preferences.
I love Liberty, at first she doesn't want to do everything bad, but she sees the world from another vue and she began to fight or at least to resist.
This book was incredible.
It's easy to see an apocalytic world actually, because the world is a mess, but in Longing for Liberty, it's about autoritarism, power over people and women, separations of people by race, sex, preferences.
I love Liberty, at first she doesn't want to do everything bad, but she sees the world from another vue and she began to fight or at least to resist.
This book was incredible.
September 21, 2025
This is a dark dystopian book - kinda Hunger Games/Handmaids Tale-style. As such, this is of course political - be aware of that before reading.
Here we follow the FMC, Liberty (Libby) and her husband, Jeremy, as they fight to survive in a new version of America. I enjoyed the power struggle here, as well as the interplay between history and modern events - although it did at some times feel painful to think about our current situation.
Overall a good read and food for thought.
Here we follow the FMC, Liberty (Libby) and her husband, Jeremy, as they fight to survive in a new version of America. I enjoyed the power struggle here, as well as the interplay between history and modern events - although it did at some times feel painful to think about our current situation.
Overall a good read and food for thought.
October 2, 2025
this is not the typical book I pick up but wow I am so glad I did ... Higgins writing style is so unique and abnormally real. this story gave handmaids tale for me and I was not mad at it ... liberty (libby) was the perfect Fmc..she isnt anything but brave and willing to sacrifice anything for liberty and justice for all ... the events in this book were scary and had me in my feelings the whole time ... this book is extremely political and dark ...well done ...
October 15, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
I finished this book and had to think how best to review it.
It is a dark political dystopian story of future America. Scary discrimination, familial separation and mental health issues portrayed had left me on edge.
Some sexy scenes are 🔥 hot and others sweet and loving.
I hope she writes more stories of some of these other characters I became invested in.
Liberty will linger with me for quite awhile.
I finished this book and had to think how best to review it.
It is a dark political dystopian story of future America. Scary discrimination, familial separation and mental health issues portrayed had left me on edge.
Some sexy scenes are 🔥 hot and others sweet and loving.
I hope she writes more stories of some of these other characters I became invested in.
Liberty will linger with me for quite awhile.
September 23, 2025
Longing for Liberty is a gripping dystopian World War III story that feels scarily close to reality. With the turmoil in today’s world, the collapse Higgins imagines feels all too possible. I couldn��t stop reading—wide-eyed the whole way through—and I still can’t stop thinking about it. A powerful, unsettling, and timely read.
October 1, 2025
✨ Longing for Liberty is bold, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
It blends danger with hope, grit with compassion, and realism with imagination in the best way. Even if this isn’t your usual genre, trust me—you’ll be hooked. Sometimes stepping outside your reading comfort zone leads to the most rewarding stories. 💛📖
It blends danger with hope, grit with compassion, and realism with imagination in the best way. Even if this isn’t your usual genre, trust me—you’ll be hooked. Sometimes stepping outside your reading comfort zone leads to the most rewarding stories. 💛📖
October 1, 2025
This was a book genre I don’t usually read, and I’m glad I gave it a try.
I did have to stop and have a break from reading, but I’m glad I finished it.
The writing was well done, and sets the scenes your reading wonderfully, to the point where in some parts of the book I felt like I was right there aswell.
I did have to stop and have a break from reading, but I’m glad I finished it.
The writing was well done, and sets the scenes your reading wonderfully, to the point where in some parts of the book I felt like I was right there aswell.
October 5, 2025
This book really hit home with what is going on the world right now. It reminded me of Handmaid's Tale but better. I admired how Libby found her strength and outwitted Amo's and the others. Ultimately bringing down this whole cult like following. I loved how Jeremy was able to stay strong and let her do what she needed to get them to the other side.
September 30, 2025
Dark, emotional, and full of tension. Longing for Liberty mixes dystopian grit with a slow burn, morally complex romance. Liberty’s journey is heartbreaking but powerful, and the world building really pulled me in!
don-t-want-to-read
September 18, 2025WWlll
October 1, 2025
😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨 man what a amazing book. Well written and had me on the edge of my seat, I could not put it down!
December 7, 2025
Handmaids tale meets 50 shades and I’m here for it
September 22, 2025
Honestly it's a great book. It wasn't really my cup of tea though. I do recommend that you check the trigger warnings before you read this book if you're going to. If you're into like a history type thing with fantasy mixed with like a modern day setting, this book is definitely for you. I wasn't that into it. Like I said it wasn't really my cup of tea but that doesn't mean that it's not going to be yours. I hate giving lower than four stars to anyone because this is how they make a living and honestly it's greatly written. I mean like I said it wasn't my cup of tea. It took me a bit longer to get through than I would have liked. However, it was a great book. It really does make you think 4⭐/5⭐ honestly I didn't feel like it was very spicy or the parts that had spice just want for me and normally I love spice 2🌶️/5🌶️. Her writing was amazing. Overall, I think that I would have liked it more if I was more into like the historical mixed with the modern along with like a war vibe. I feel like I would have liked it a bit more. Normally those aren't my cup of teas, but I love reading just about everything so I figured I'd give it a shot
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