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Obstetrix
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50 copies available
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From the Hugo award-winning author Naomi Kritzer comes a tense portrait of a future we desperately hope to escape.
O Lord, deliver us.
Doctor Liz has just been acquitted for performing the last abortion in North Dakota when she's kidnapped.
They're not just any kidnappers, but a fundamentalist cult, deep in the rural west, without respect for law or decency, and in desperate need of an OB/GYN.
Guarded, isolated, without access to the outside world, Liz nevertheless is treated with respect as the only doctor on the compound, but she is very aware of what happened to the last obstetrician they kidnapped.
She must escape, and bring help to the girls trapped at the compound, if it's the last thing she does.
O Lord, deliver us.
Doctor Liz has just been acquitted for performing the last abortion in North Dakota when she's kidnapped.
They're not just any kidnappers, but a fundamentalist cult, deep in the rural west, without respect for law or decency, and in desperate need of an OB/GYN.
Guarded, isolated, without access to the outside world, Liz nevertheless is treated with respect as the only doctor on the compound, but she is very aware of what happened to the last obstetrician they kidnapped.
She must escape, and bring help to the girls trapped at the compound, if it's the last thing she does.
6 pages, Audiobook
Expected publication June 9, 2026
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November 13, 2025A fast-moving feminist thriller, in which an obstetrician is kidnapped by a violently patriarchal extremist christian cult somewhere in nowhere USA and forced to provide midwifery and medical help for their (many) pregnant women. Great atmosphere of surveillance and fear, and a very realistic depiction of how a normal person would react in the circumstances, which is to say, if you are expecting the heroine to go Jackie Reacher on the cultists, you will be disappointed. Rather, it builds a horrifying high-tension picture of the heroine's helplessness and desperation to escape, along with her sense of obligation to her patients, and an awful feeling of not knowing who to trust or help. Compelling reading that feels all too plausible in the current climate.
I had an ARC from the publisher (which is also my publisher).
I had an ARC from the publisher (which is also my publisher).
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April 27, 2026I received this audiobook through NetGalley and Macmillan Audio.
Obstetrix was a quick, tense, fast-paced listen, and I really enjoyed it. It pulled me in fast and stayed easy to follow. I didn’t even mean to finish it in one sitting.
What worked for me was how plausible it felt. The story deals with medical control, abortion, cults, and kidnapping in a way that does not feel that far removed from reality. So this is not a light casual listen if you have those specific triggers.
The audiobook worked really well for this. Jennifer Pickens handled the single narration smoothly, and the voice transitions between characters never pulled me out of the story. Her pacing kept everything moving, and the audio made it easy to stay locked in from beginning to end.
I’d recommend this to readers and listeners who like tense, fast-paced speculative fiction that feel a little too believable and who are okay with the heavier subject matters.
Obstetrix was a quick, tense, fast-paced listen, and I really enjoyed it. It pulled me in fast and stayed easy to follow. I didn’t even mean to finish it in one sitting.
What worked for me was how plausible it felt. The story deals with medical control, abortion, cults, and kidnapping in a way that does not feel that far removed from reality. So this is not a light casual listen if you have those specific triggers.
The audiobook worked really well for this. Jennifer Pickens handled the single narration smoothly, and the voice transitions between characters never pulled me out of the story. Her pacing kept everything moving, and the audio made it easy to stay locked in from beginning to end.
I’d recommend this to readers and listeners who like tense, fast-paced speculative fiction that feel a little too believable and who are okay with the heavier subject matters.
November 26, 2025
** I received an advance digital copy from the publisher, because I am a librarian and librarians are awesome **
While the publisher bills this as near-future science fiction, the "science" aspect is that the narrator is a physician, and the "future" (where an OB/GYN is prosecuted for her role in terminating a viable pregnancy) basically feels like it could happen any second, so, yeah.
I found myself flying through the story, though, because it has many features that I like in a book, among them: natural childbirth, cults, and a premise ripped from true crime.
While the ending felt like it wrapped up too quickly, and absolutely nothing can compare to Candace Fleming's Death in the Jungle when it comes to capturing the insidious creep of a cult's control over its members (like falling in love John Green style - slowly, then all at once), the story was realistic enough and entertaining enough. This is a case of appreciating what it is, even if I probably would have enjoyed a novel-length version with rotating POVs even more for its ability to ratchet up the tension and stakes.
While the publisher bills this as near-future science fiction, the "science" aspect is that the narrator is a physician, and the "future" (where an OB/GYN is prosecuted for her role in terminating a viable pregnancy) basically feels like it could happen any second, so, yeah.
I found myself flying through the story, though, because it has many features that I like in a book, among them: natural childbirth, cults, and a premise ripped from true crime.
While the ending felt like it wrapped up too quickly, and absolutely nothing can compare to Candace Fleming's Death in the Jungle when it comes to capturing the insidious creep of a cult's control over its members (like falling in love John Green style - slowly, then all at once), the story was realistic enough and entertaining enough. This is a case of appreciating what it is, even if I probably would have enjoyed a novel-length version with rotating POVs even more for its ability to ratchet up the tension and stakes.
January 14, 2026
Another typically fresh and fantastic novella from Tor, and from Naomi Kritzer, author of the delightful Catfishing on CatNet!
I read this 200-ish-page treat in basically one sitting. I relished the voice and thought process of Dr. Liz, the pragmatic and straightforward but compassionate (and fantasy literature-loving) obstetrician who finds herself mysteriously stuck in the rural compound of the cult-like group Harvest during a time when obstetricians are in short regional supply due to increasing hardship and pressure for medical professionals in that line of work - as Dr. Liz has already discovered all too well.
This moving and suspenseful little story read like a mix of Big Love, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Call the Midwife. In some ways - and especially in their shared ability to find calmness and inspiration through escapism into a fantasy narrative - Dr. Liz reminded me of another favorite Tor character who is also beloved for their keen-eyed observations and askance assessments of the humankind around them: that’s right, Murderbot! The book should also appeal to fans of Tor luminary Sarah Gailey. And is not the cover striking?
I’m not sure that Tor ever commits a misstep, and they certainly haven’t done so with this one. Obstetrix is due on June 9, 2026. Big thanks to Tor Publishing Group, NetGalley, and the author for the ARC!
I read this 200-ish-page treat in basically one sitting. I relished the voice and thought process of Dr. Liz, the pragmatic and straightforward but compassionate (and fantasy literature-loving) obstetrician who finds herself mysteriously stuck in the rural compound of the cult-like group Harvest during a time when obstetricians are in short regional supply due to increasing hardship and pressure for medical professionals in that line of work - as Dr. Liz has already discovered all too well.
This moving and suspenseful little story read like a mix of Big Love, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Call the Midwife. In some ways - and especially in their shared ability to find calmness and inspiration through escapism into a fantasy narrative - Dr. Liz reminded me of another favorite Tor character who is also beloved for their keen-eyed observations and askance assessments of the humankind around them: that’s right, Murderbot! The book should also appeal to fans of Tor luminary Sarah Gailey. And is not the cover striking?
I’m not sure that Tor ever commits a misstep, and they certainly haven’t done so with this one. Obstetrix is due on June 9, 2026. Big thanks to Tor Publishing Group, NetGalley, and the author for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a quick, tense read that felt a little too real.
I appreciated the ending and the follow-up on what happened to the characters. This gave the story a sense of closure that a lot of dystopian novellas skip. That said, I did wish we’d gotten more backstory on the cult itself. I kept wondering how the world got to that point. But honestly… with the way things are right now, it’s not that hard to imagine.
I also would have liked more character development. There were several people introduced that I never fully connected with, and I think a little more depth would have made the emotional stakes hit harder.
Still, what this book does well is capture something deeply unsettling about living in a world where women’s bodies are constantly treated as something to control. It’s dark, uncomfortable, and unfortunately very relevant. At its core, it’s a story about survival and the quiet, relentless strength it takes for women to endure cruelty and keep going.
Not an easy read... but a powerful one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.75 rounded up to 4 for platforms that don't allow this rating.
I appreciated the ending and the follow-up on what happened to the characters. This gave the story a sense of closure that a lot of dystopian novellas skip. That said, I did wish we’d gotten more backstory on the cult itself. I kept wondering how the world got to that point. But honestly… with the way things are right now, it’s not that hard to imagine.
I also would have liked more character development. There were several people introduced that I never fully connected with, and I think a little more depth would have made the emotional stakes hit harder.
Still, what this book does well is capture something deeply unsettling about living in a world where women’s bodies are constantly treated as something to control. It’s dark, uncomfortable, and unfortunately very relevant. At its core, it’s a story about survival and the quiet, relentless strength it takes for women to endure cruelty and keep going.
Not an easy read... but a powerful one.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.75 rounded up to 4 for platforms that don't allow this rating.
May 5, 2026
This dystopian is very terrifying considering the current political climate. It sucks you in to it following Dr. Elizabeth’s daily attempts at trying to solve an escape from her captors. Emotional pulls throughout the story. The climax to this story is everything, I can’t say anything more without spoilers. Thank you to Netgalley & Macmillan audio for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 10, 2026
I finished this book (edit: this is considered a novella!) in one, four-hour sitting. It was a fast paced thriller about an obstetrician that was kidnapped by a religious cult to help the often very young women (and children) deliver babies. Naturally it had strong feminist themes, but also presented really interesting moral/philosophical debates within the main character that made me consider what I would do in a similar situation.
It is everything I hoped for when I requested this ARC, if anything I wished it was a little longer. I would have loved more character development from some secondary characters, like Bethany’s parents, or backstory about Pastor John and the development of the compound (although, I think we can assume, these types of cults are all essentially a copy-paste). The ending came fast, but I loved it.
A free ARC was provided through NetGalley and Tor publishing exchange for an honest review.
It is everything I hoped for when I requested this ARC, if anything I wished it was a little longer. I would have loved more character development from some secondary characters, like Bethany’s parents, or backstory about Pastor John and the development of the compound (although, I think we can assume, these types of cults are all essentially a copy-paste). The ending came fast, but I loved it.
A free ARC was provided through NetGalley and Tor publishing exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2026
Meh I thought this was gonna be a banger of a sci-fi horror kidnapping, but it was almost YA it was so tame? I know the stakes were *technically* high because our main character is kidnapped by a cult who is violently, fundamentally religious, but it was written in a way that never had you doubting a happy ending. I skipped over every single instance of the childhood book references after the first three. And there’s A LOT. Anyway. I didn’t hate. But it was forgettable. Thanks for my ARC, NetGalley!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgally and Tor for providing this ARC.
This was a very fast-paced novella about an obstetrician who was recently acquitted for a medically nessceary abortion. While looking for a job, she gets kidnapped by a cult. The premis was very interesting and what kept me reading.
However, I am sad to say this story fell a bit short for me. The story lacked character development. I wasn't invested in any of the characters. The ending was very unrealistic and rushed.
This was a very fast-paced novella about an obstetrician who was recently acquitted for a medically nessceary abortion. While looking for a job, she gets kidnapped by a cult. The premis was very interesting and what kept me reading.
However, I am sad to say this story fell a bit short for me. The story lacked character development. I wasn't invested in any of the characters. The ending was very unrealistic and rushed.
May 3, 2026
Thank you Tordotcom and Macmillan Audio for my free ARC of Obstetrix by Naomi Kritzer — available Jun 9!
» READ IF YOU «
🏥 want a tense dystopian read centered on reproductive rights
✊ are furious about the state of women's healthcare in America
📖 aren't looking for something with sky-high stakes
» SYNOPSIS «
Dr. Liz has just escaped a guilty verdict for performing an abortion in North Dakota when she's kidnapped by a fundamentalist cult. They are way, way out there—geographically and ideologically—and very much in need of an Obstetrician. Their last doctor? Buried in a shallow grave after refusing to treat patients. Liz is desperate to leave, but to take the young, innocent girls with her.
» REVIEW «
Alright, so, the beginning of this book? Completely gripping. A doctor BARELY acquitted for performing an abortion is kidnapped by a religious cult? I was so in. But after that, somehow, the stakes were so low that I had trouble remembering our girl Liz was actually, like, in danger.
The middle of the book (and it's a short one) settles into a routine that, while intentional (life in this isolated cult IS monotonous), does drain a lot of the urgency. I kept waiting for the stakes to ratchet back up and they just...didn't really. There were definitely some tense moments! But I wish we had kept up the suspense of the beginning.
My main beef is actually with the ending, which I won't spoil, but it reeeeally didn't do the female empowerment message any favors. I needed more from Kritzer here. The writing itself is genuinely good and the subject matter is important as hell. But this is a book that had the bones to be something truly devastating, and it played it a little too safe for my liking.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
» READ IF YOU «
🏥 want a tense dystopian read centered on reproductive rights
✊ are furious about the state of women's healthcare in America
📖 aren't looking for something with sky-high stakes
» SYNOPSIS «
Dr. Liz has just escaped a guilty verdict for performing an abortion in North Dakota when she's kidnapped by a fundamentalist cult. They are way, way out there—geographically and ideologically—and very much in need of an Obstetrician. Their last doctor? Buried in a shallow grave after refusing to treat patients. Liz is desperate to leave, but to take the young, innocent girls with her.
» REVIEW «
Alright, so, the beginning of this book? Completely gripping. A doctor BARELY acquitted for performing an abortion is kidnapped by a religious cult? I was so in. But after that, somehow, the stakes were so low that I had trouble remembering our girl Liz was actually, like, in danger.
The middle of the book (and it's a short one) settles into a routine that, while intentional (life in this isolated cult IS monotonous), does drain a lot of the urgency. I kept waiting for the stakes to ratchet back up and they just...didn't really. There were definitely some tense moments! But I wish we had kept up the suspense of the beginning.
My main beef is actually with the ending, which I won't spoil, but it reeeeally didn't do the female empowerment message any favors. I needed more from Kritzer here. The writing itself is genuinely good and the subject matter is important as hell. But this is a book that had the bones to be something truly devastating, and it played it a little too safe for my liking.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 29, 2025
This novella/short book went by so fast I was left wanting so much more! I wish there had been a little more depth and character development, but the premise for the story was interesting and it’s hard to go very deep in a novella.
I really enjoyed the story overall though. It feels very timely and very likely to happen, if it isn’t already. I think fans of Neal Shusterman’s Unwind series would enjoy this book and I would recommend it to teens and young adults. This might also be a great book for adults who are learning to read since it has adult topics but isn’t too long.
Many thanks to the author, publisher, and Edelweiss for providing this advanced readers copy for free for review.
I really enjoyed the story overall though. It feels very timely and very likely to happen, if it isn’t already. I think fans of Neal Shusterman’s Unwind series would enjoy this book and I would recommend it to teens and young adults. This might also be a great book for adults who are learning to read since it has adult topics but isn’t too long.
Many thanks to the author, publisher, and Edelweiss for providing this advanced readers copy for free for review.
March 19, 2026
This one is difficult to rate. I was definitely engrossed in the story and entertained the entire time, but it didn’t feel exceptionally fresh. & I was not fond of how the ending wrapped up.
Thank you to Tor for the ARC
Thank you to Tor for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
it was fine. the premise was interesting but I just didn't connect with it. I consume a lot of content about cults and fundementalist christian groups, and I am by NO MEANS an expert, but the 'kidnapping a doctor who was involved in a high profile court case' seems like something a cult would NOT do, as it would put them in a position for their actions (not just the kidnapping but the inner workings of the cult) to be exposed. also why have an educated secular outsider come into your cult? wouldn't that itself be a risk to the control of the members, at least in the eyes of the cult leaders? I also have no idea what the cult actually believes in besides a vague blanket of christian fundamentalism. this made the story seem more topical and trendy rather than really thinking about how religious doctrines and spiritual abuse and manipulation play out in groups like this and endanger women, children, queer folks, and more. I think if the novel was longer (my ARC is just under 200 pages, but im not sure what the final printing will be like) then some of these topics could have been fleshed out a bit more and explored more thoroughly. the ending was also pretty sudden and kind of unbelievable. of course, this is fiction and some suspension of belief I am fine with, but this was so unbelievable I laughed out loud. I'll hide this review for SPOILERS COMING AHEAD:
her dad just gets his Air Force buddies to go find her and rescue her and raid the compound? like come on. the cult has so many people, liz doesn't even know or has even met all of the members by the end of the book, and they all have guns and are familiar with the terrain and layout of the compound but a handful of some retired Air Force guys can just handle the whole situation? idk. seems a little messy to me.
her dad just gets his Air Force buddies to go find her and rescue her and raid the compound? like come on. the cult has so many people, liz doesn't even know or has even met all of the members by the end of the book, and they all have guns and are familiar with the terrain and layout of the compound but a handful of some retired Air Force guys can just handle the whole situation? idk. seems a little messy to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
It's not often that I immediately turn around a review after finishing a book, but sometimes you read something incredibly special and know you're going to be hearing a lot about it coming up and want to be part of hyping it up. Takes place in a near future where we are still living in the aftermath of Roe v Wade calling, and our main, Liz, is an ob/gyn who was just acquited for performing the last abortion in North Dakota. She's kidnapped by a fundamentalist cult with the lure of a job interview in Minnesota to be their doctor. We get a hell of a tale of how she survives, the things she witnesses, how she tries to prevent harm as best she can in a place where fourteen year old girls are married to forty year olds with the expectation of rapid and frequent childbirth, and how the power of stories gives hope and shared power in a patriarchal nightmare cult. This comes out in June, but preorder it now, and enjoy the summer treat.
January 13, 2026
This was a really good read from start to finish, as is the usual with Naomi Kritzer’s books no matter the subject matter. There were so many small details that gave the story a face no matter how central any particular characters were, and I couldn’t help but be invested in every plot point no matter how small.
The narrative also makes the cult seem like a parallel for rigid gender roles overall, with details such as the myriad of ways that the cult seems to only care about healthcare when it extends to pregnancy, that have an effect on their whole society.
The narrative also makes the cult seem like a parallel for rigid gender roles overall, with details such as the myriad of ways that the cult seems to only care about healthcare when it extends to pregnancy, that have an effect on their whole society.
May 11, 2026
This was a very straightforward story about the horrors of living in a cult. It was equal parts entertaining and horrifying, and the kind of book I could see playing out well as a movie. It definitely makes me even more thankful for modern medicine.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
March 30, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of Obstetrix in exchange for an honest review.
I was initially drawn to Obstetrix because of its eye-catching cover and compelling premise. The core idea behind the story is meaningful and highlights themes that feel important and worth exploring.
That said, the execution didn’t work for me. The writing is repetitive, and the overall style comes across as underdeveloped. I also found the use of parentheses for background information distracting, as it interrupts the flow of the narrative instead of blending naturally into the story.
The pacing felt uneven due to a lack of smooth transitions between scenes, and the dialogue occasionally seemed unnatural or difficult to follow. I think the story would benefit from more “showing” rather than “telling” to create a stronger emotional connection with the reader.
Overall, while I appreciated the concept and message, this one didn’t meet my expectations in terms of execution. The manuscript would greatly benefit from additional developmental editing and refinement before reaching its full potential.
I was initially drawn to Obstetrix because of its eye-catching cover and compelling premise. The core idea behind the story is meaningful and highlights themes that feel important and worth exploring.
That said, the execution didn’t work for me. The writing is repetitive, and the overall style comes across as underdeveloped. I also found the use of parentheses for background information distracting, as it interrupts the flow of the narrative instead of blending naturally into the story.
The pacing felt uneven due to a lack of smooth transitions between scenes, and the dialogue occasionally seemed unnatural or difficult to follow. I think the story would benefit from more “showing” rather than “telling” to create a stronger emotional connection with the reader.
Overall, while I appreciated the concept and message, this one didn’t meet my expectations in terms of execution. The manuscript would greatly benefit from additional developmental editing and refinement before reaching its full potential.
February 17, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
January 18, 2026
'm not usually a dystopian reader, but one that has to do with women's rights, sure I'll buy in! Yesterday I shared a book about ethics in fertility treatment, today I'm here with a 5⭐ read about an OB/GYN in a future we hope to escape!
In Obstetrix, Dr. Liz has just been acquitted for performing the last abortion in North Dakota when she’s abducted by an isolated fundamentalist cult in need of an OB/GYN. Cut off from the outside world and keenly aware of what happened to the doctor before her, Liz must navigate fear, control, and uneasy respect to survive. Gripping and unsettling, the novel follows her race to escape and find help for the girls trapped alongside her.
I really liked this book. The cult aspect was great, the kidnapping/held captive situation was a bit stressful without being too scary, and the lack of books and technology was a huge difference from the reality we live in today. I would highly recommend this book and am looking forward to checking out some of the author's other books.
Obstetrix comes out in June, so add this one to your TBR and keep your eye out for it in the summer!
Thanks to @netgalley and the publisher @tordotcompub for giving me the chance to read and review this excellent book!
In Obstetrix, Dr. Liz has just been acquitted for performing the last abortion in North Dakota when she’s abducted by an isolated fundamentalist cult in need of an OB/GYN. Cut off from the outside world and keenly aware of what happened to the doctor before her, Liz must navigate fear, control, and uneasy respect to survive. Gripping and unsettling, the novel follows her race to escape and find help for the girls trapped alongside her.
I really liked this book. The cult aspect was great, the kidnapping/held captive situation was a bit stressful without being too scary, and the lack of books and technology was a huge difference from the reality we live in today. I would highly recommend this book and am looking forward to checking out some of the author's other books.
Obstetrix comes out in June, so add this one to your TBR and keep your eye out for it in the summer!
Thanks to @netgalley and the publisher @tordotcompub for giving me the chance to read and review this excellent book!
March 14, 2026
*Thank you to the publisher for providing an eARC via NetGalley for review.
This was a disappointing read. I wanted more from the plot. I was hoping this would be a thrilling novella, but I was bored throughout most of it.
I liked the beginning, where this doctor is kidnapped by this crazy cult and forced to be their obstetrician. It had a good setup, but not a lot happened. I lost interest pretty quickly and it wasn’t a long book. Most of the action happened towards the end of the story and the ending was not my favorite.
I did like the author’s writing style, so I would read another book from them, but this book was not for me.
👉Recommended for: readers interested in cults, who enjoy shorter reads or slower paced plots
✍️Also by this author: Catfishing on Catnet
This was a disappointing read. I wanted more from the plot. I was hoping this would be a thrilling novella, but I was bored throughout most of it.
I liked the beginning, where this doctor is kidnapped by this crazy cult and forced to be their obstetrician. It had a good setup, but not a lot happened. I lost interest pretty quickly and it wasn’t a long book. Most of the action happened towards the end of the story and the ending was not my favorite.
I did like the author’s writing style, so I would read another book from them, but this book was not for me.
👉Recommended for: readers interested in cults, who enjoy shorter reads or slower paced plots
✍️Also by this author: Catfishing on Catnet
February 20, 2026
An interesting idea for a story ruined by amateurish writing. Also prob not the author’s fault but this is not sci-fi or spec fic. Like, at all. And shouldn’t be tagged as such
May 4, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley & MacMilliam Audio for the ARC Audiobook.
I highly recommend reading this, regardless of your genre of choice. It’s only 200 pages so it’s not a huge commitment and it’s absolutely worth it.
Obstetrix follows Dr. Liz, an obstetrician whose life is thrown into chaos after a highly publicized trial for performing a life saving abortion.
This is one of those books that just keeps getting worse (in a good way; it’s emotionally devastating, not poorly written). I knew that the book was going to be dark but what really got me was how real everything felt. The situation, being kidnapped by an extremist religious cult to be an on-site Obstetrician for said cult; the situation itself is extreme but the reactions from people, the systems that are supposed to help but don’t, and the way certain characters justify what’s happening… especially in this political climate that we are living in, it felt way too real which is why it felt like a psychological horror novel.
There’s a character named Bethany, she’s a few months shy of turning 14; you very quickly realize that although life on the compound is all she’s ever known - it’s obvious to the reader that she wants more than what this compound has to offer. Bethany’s character is one that sticks in your brain long after you finish the book.
Specifically, the thing that stuck with me the most is that Bethany was scheduled to marry a man in his 30’s (I believe, he may have been in his 40’s) and the way that Liz did everything she could to protect her from it. She tried to tell Sarah (the lady who kidnapped her, she is essentially Liz’ babysitter throughout the entire novel) that Bethany was not physically ready to get pregnant and Sarah responds by saying that “God will not bless us with a baby too big for our bodies to carry” and I wanted to scream! I wanted to reach through the book and shake Sarah. It was absolutely infuriating especially considering the state of things in America currently and we constantly have people completely disregarding science because it doesn’t match their beliefs. That interaction made the whole novel feel a little TOO REAL.
The FBI doing basically nothing to find Liz and Liz’ father having to take matters into his own hands? Again, it hits a little too close to real life. Time and time again, while listening to true crime stories, we hear that the police sat back and did nothing and had they just done their jobs; the victim may have survived.
This is not an easy read. It’s uncomfortable, frustrating, and at times I was straight up angry reading it—but I also could not put it down. It was the first book in a long time that I stayed up way past my bedtime to read.
I do wish a few things had gone differently. There were moments where I wanted certain characters to go a little more… feral. And I definitely thought that we were going to watch Liz lose her shit when it was mentioned that the men on the compound carried guns. I was hoping we were going to see Liz take lives into her own hands and I’m not talking about her obstetrician duties.
But overall this is the kind of book that stays with you. Specifically at the end, [SPOILER ALERT!!!] Liz is watching the very people who made her a victim go on the news and talk about how badly they wanted to escape. The reality of this sank in because how many times have we seen people get away with horrific things and face zero repercussions for their horrendous actions? Way more times than I can count. People who were complicit in the crimes of this religious cult cried on television and painted themselves as the victims while the REAL victims in this story, people like Joy and her newborn baby who are forced to live in a shelter. Children like Bethany, who truly has NO idea how the real world works because she asks Liz if she can “still be her apprentice” at 13/14 years old!
It’s absolutely horrifying because you know that this is happening right now to a child somewhere in America.
If you like darker, more realistic stories that make you feel something (even if that feeling is rage), you’ll probably get a lot out of this book! I will be recommending this book to all of my friends who read.
Notes on the audiobook specifically: The narrator, Jennifer Pickens, is officially one of my favorite audiobook narrators. She was incredibly easy to listen to. She doesn’t just read the book to you, she makes you feel the words that are being spoken. It makes for an incredibly immersive experience which is sometimes difficult when you listen to audiobooks on anything other than 1.0x. Some narrators sound like an AI robot voice - Jennifer Pickens does a great job doing the opposite. She sounds like a human, speaks with emotion and it feels like someone is telling you their story; not like you’re just reading another book. I will be looking for more books that she narrates in the future.
I highly recommend reading this, regardless of your genre of choice. It’s only 200 pages so it’s not a huge commitment and it’s absolutely worth it.
Obstetrix follows Dr. Liz, an obstetrician whose life is thrown into chaos after a highly publicized trial for performing a life saving abortion.
This is one of those books that just keeps getting worse (in a good way; it’s emotionally devastating, not poorly written). I knew that the book was going to be dark but what really got me was how real everything felt. The situation, being kidnapped by an extremist religious cult to be an on-site Obstetrician for said cult; the situation itself is extreme but the reactions from people, the systems that are supposed to help but don’t, and the way certain characters justify what’s happening… especially in this political climate that we are living in, it felt way too real which is why it felt like a psychological horror novel.
There’s a character named Bethany, she’s a few months shy of turning 14; you very quickly realize that although life on the compound is all she’s ever known - it’s obvious to the reader that she wants more than what this compound has to offer. Bethany’s character is one that sticks in your brain long after you finish the book.
Specifically, the thing that stuck with me the most is that Bethany was scheduled to marry a man in his 30’s (I believe, he may have been in his 40’s) and the way that Liz did everything she could to protect her from it. She tried to tell Sarah (the lady who kidnapped her, she is essentially Liz’ babysitter throughout the entire novel) that Bethany was not physically ready to get pregnant and Sarah responds by saying that “God will not bless us with a baby too big for our bodies to carry” and I wanted to scream! I wanted to reach through the book and shake Sarah. It was absolutely infuriating especially considering the state of things in America currently and we constantly have people completely disregarding science because it doesn’t match their beliefs. That interaction made the whole novel feel a little TOO REAL.
The FBI doing basically nothing to find Liz and Liz’ father having to take matters into his own hands? Again, it hits a little too close to real life. Time and time again, while listening to true crime stories, we hear that the police sat back and did nothing and had they just done their jobs; the victim may have survived.
This is not an easy read. It’s uncomfortable, frustrating, and at times I was straight up angry reading it—but I also could not put it down. It was the first book in a long time that I stayed up way past my bedtime to read.
I do wish a few things had gone differently. There were moments where I wanted certain characters to go a little more… feral. And I definitely thought that we were going to watch Liz lose her shit when it was mentioned that the men on the compound carried guns. I was hoping we were going to see Liz take lives into her own hands and I’m not talking about her obstetrician duties.
But overall this is the kind of book that stays with you. Specifically at the end, [SPOILER ALERT!!!] Liz is watching the very people who made her a victim go on the news and talk about how badly they wanted to escape. The reality of this sank in because how many times have we seen people get away with horrific things and face zero repercussions for their horrendous actions? Way more times than I can count. People who were complicit in the crimes of this religious cult cried on television and painted themselves as the victims while the REAL victims in this story, people like Joy and her newborn baby who are forced to live in a shelter. Children like Bethany, who truly has NO idea how the real world works because she asks Liz if she can “still be her apprentice” at 13/14 years old!
It’s absolutely horrifying because you know that this is happening right now to a child somewhere in America.
If you like darker, more realistic stories that make you feel something (even if that feeling is rage), you’ll probably get a lot out of this book! I will be recommending this book to all of my friends who read.
Notes on the audiobook specifically: The narrator, Jennifer Pickens, is officially one of my favorite audiobook narrators. She was incredibly easy to listen to. She doesn’t just read the book to you, she makes you feel the words that are being spoken. It makes for an incredibly immersive experience which is sometimes difficult when you listen to audiobooks on anything other than 1.0x. Some narrators sound like an AI robot voice - Jennifer Pickens does a great job doing the opposite. She sounds like a human, speaks with emotion and it feels like someone is telling you their story; not like you’re just reading another book. I will be looking for more books that she narrates in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An Obstetrician kidnapped by a cult? I was immediately sucked in by this premise. Dr Liz has difficulty finding work after being acquitted in a state that has more and more anti-abortion legislation and, desperate, she agrees to take an interview from an unknown clinic. Obstetrix follows the story of her kidnap and plot to escape, except that instead of being especially involved, we see things through Liz’s very cult controlled and separated POV.
.
For 75% of the book, I was eating up the growing tension. There were so many tidbits of things falling apart - like the meals going from having a very small dessert, to running out of jam with a PB&J sandwich. The controlling of energy and also the dwindling of resources had so many breadcrumbs for something cataclysmic to happen that would implode the compound. I was a little bummed that this did end up really leading to nothing except shining the lack of funds for the cult.
Even when it came to the end of the book, Liz only played a very small part in having the climax achieve its goal, that it was a little dis-satisfying as a reader. I suppose I was hoping for this book to say something more than it ended up doing. But, I’m also wondering, because it felt like everything was laid out so thoughtfully, that I ended up missing the goal of this short novel.
There are great discussions on access to women’s health care in rural areas and how these areas are especially hit when anti-abortion laws make practicing any women’s health care unsafe. Doctors leave in exodus and women are left, usually trapped, to suffer the consequences. I could have gone for a bit more of a biting and in depth look, but I still enjoyed what I got.
.
Ultimately, at the end of this novel, I wanted just a Iittle bit more - little bit more sci-fi/speculative elements (tbh this is more of a contemporary thriller, the speculative element is stricter anti-abortion laws in the states and that really isn’t enough of a leap to be deemed speculative imo). I would love to listen to interviews from this author to see why Kritzer chose to take this book in the direction it did go - I get the feeling it would open my eyes immensely to the story being told.
.
If you’re looking for an interesting novel to pick through with contemporary issues, I would say give Obstetrix a call, but while there is a delicious tension through the novel, there is very little punchy cult action and more of a realistic approach when it comes to the resolution.
.
*I received an eARC from Tor Publishing Group | Tordotcom & NetGalley. All opinions are my own*
.
Note: HP mention. While it does make sense given the character who brings it up, it’s 2026, get rid of it or confront it in text.
.
For 75% of the book, I was eating up the growing tension. There were so many tidbits of things falling apart - like the meals going from having a very small dessert, to running out of jam with a PB&J sandwich. The controlling of energy and also the dwindling of resources had so many breadcrumbs for something cataclysmic to happen that would implode the compound. I was a little bummed that this did end up really leading to nothing except shining the lack of funds for the cult.
Even when it came to the end of the book, Liz only played a very small part in having the climax achieve its goal, that it was a little dis-satisfying as a reader. I suppose I was hoping for this book to say something more than it ended up doing. But, I’m also wondering, because it felt like everything was laid out so thoughtfully, that I ended up missing the goal of this short novel.
There are great discussions on access to women’s health care in rural areas and how these areas are especially hit when anti-abortion laws make practicing any women’s health care unsafe. Doctors leave in exodus and women are left, usually trapped, to suffer the consequences. I could have gone for a bit more of a biting and in depth look, but I still enjoyed what I got.
.
Ultimately, at the end of this novel, I wanted just a Iittle bit more - little bit more sci-fi/speculative elements (tbh this is more of a contemporary thriller, the speculative element is stricter anti-abortion laws in the states and that really isn’t enough of a leap to be deemed speculative imo). I would love to listen to interviews from this author to see why Kritzer chose to take this book in the direction it did go - I get the feeling it would open my eyes immensely to the story being told.
.
If you’re looking for an interesting novel to pick through with contemporary issues, I would say give Obstetrix a call, but while there is a delicious tension through the novel, there is very little punchy cult action and more of a realistic approach when it comes to the resolution.
.
*I received an eARC from Tor Publishing Group | Tordotcom & NetGalley. All opinions are my own*
.
Note: HP mention. While it does make sense given the character who brings it up, it’s 2026, get rid of it or confront it in text.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
(3.5🌟 rounded up)
Perfect for a short, simple, engrossing read!
The story follows Liz, a OB/GYN who was practically outlawed from North Dakota when she performed an abortion, even though she was acquitted. She's desperate for a new job and reluctantly accepts a job interview that feels suspicious. It ends up being a member of a cult who kidnaps Liz and forces her to become the cult's doctor, especially since they have so many pregnant women.
When I initially read the synopsis of this blurb, I was expecting something more outrightly sinister, so I was surprised by the direction this book took. It's sounds like it might be a dystopian book, but it really isn't, because this could have happened today, or even a couple of years ago, given the current policital climate in the US and frankly globally.
The story focuses on Liz's time with the cult, and while it initially feels like a story about escape, it ends up being an unsettling read because of the underlying horror of what it means to actually be a woman in that cult. There's a sense of dread as you learn more about the expectations of girls and women in this cult, and how Liz struggles with these revelations as a doctor who actually seems to care for her patients and who had taken it upon herself to become a knowledgeable and safe doctor for all types of patients.
I ended up really liking Liz's character, mostly because she was quite a uniquely written character given the circumstances. Instead of her becoming this unlikely hero who manages to do something wildly brave and become the saviour of the cult, she instead bides her time and waits for an opportunity to present itself while slowly learning more about the people around her and their beliefs. She provides the best care she feels she can, and she becomes fiercely protective over some of the girls and women she gets to know. She's unique because she feels extremely relatable, and I don't think I would have done anything differently if I was in her situation.
The book is quite short and it's a pretty straightforward read, which was exactly what I needed at this moment. It felt refreshing after reading quite a few lengthy and heavy reads, so I found myself speeding through this book! The writing seems overtly simplistic at first and almost choppy, but it took me about a chapter to get used to it and then I didn't even notice it anymore.
Highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a short and satisfying read with an interesting and realistic main character in an impossible situation.
Perfect for a short, simple, engrossing read!
The story follows Liz, a OB/GYN who was practically outlawed from North Dakota when she performed an abortion, even though she was acquitted. She's desperate for a new job and reluctantly accepts a job interview that feels suspicious. It ends up being a member of a cult who kidnaps Liz and forces her to become the cult's doctor, especially since they have so many pregnant women.
When I initially read the synopsis of this blurb, I was expecting something more outrightly sinister, so I was surprised by the direction this book took. It's sounds like it might be a dystopian book, but it really isn't, because this could have happened today, or even a couple of years ago, given the current policital climate in the US and frankly globally.
The story focuses on Liz's time with the cult, and while it initially feels like a story about escape, it ends up being an unsettling read because of the underlying horror of what it means to actually be a woman in that cult. There's a sense of dread as you learn more about the expectations of girls and women in this cult, and how Liz struggles with these revelations as a doctor who actually seems to care for her patients and who had taken it upon herself to become a knowledgeable and safe doctor for all types of patients.
I ended up really liking Liz's character, mostly because she was quite a uniquely written character given the circumstances. Instead of her becoming this unlikely hero who manages to do something wildly brave and become the saviour of the cult, she instead bides her time and waits for an opportunity to present itself while slowly learning more about the people around her and their beliefs. She provides the best care she feels she can, and she becomes fiercely protective over some of the girls and women she gets to know. She's unique because she feels extremely relatable, and I don't think I would have done anything differently if I was in her situation.
The book is quite short and it's a pretty straightforward read, which was exactly what I needed at this moment. It felt refreshing after reading quite a few lengthy and heavy reads, so I found myself speeding through this book! The writing seems overtly simplistic at first and almost choppy, but it took me about a chapter to get used to it and then I didn't even notice it anymore.
Highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a short and satisfying read with an interesting and realistic main character in an impossible situation.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“If care comes with conditions, is it still care... or just control with a softer voice?”
Rating: 4.5
I knew early on this book was about to stress me out. Obstetrix by Naomi Kritzer gave me immediate "The Handmaid's Tale" energy… but quieter, more controlled, and honestly? That made it feel even more uncomfortable.
Through Talia, everything felt normal at first. Structured. Purposeful. Even comforting. She believes in what she’s doing by serving both faith and community as an obstetrix. The deeper I got, the more that “care” started to feel… conditional. Like, it only exists as long as everyone stays obedient.
That’s what really made me say, IKYFL!
The women in this world are included in conversations about their bodies, but not actually given power. They’re guided, reassured, “allowed” to participate… but only within lines that were drawn for them. That blurred line between consent and compliance? Yeah, this book sits right there and refuses to get TF on... (STRESSED)
What made this especially tense is that Talia isn’t some instant rebel. She’s part of the system. She’s been trained by it, shaped by it, and benefits from it in certain ways. So watching her slowly realize what’s actually happening and what her role in it means, felt less like a rebellion arc, and more like a moral unraveling.
Once the stakes around childbirth really lock in... Whew. Every decision starts to feel like life or death because now it’s not just about belief, It’s about consequences.
By the end, I wasn’t looking for a perfect resolution. I just needed to see what she would choose when it actually mattered. I was also anticipating a plot twist at the end like something involving her dad... because, why not?
If I had one critique, I did find myself wanting just a little more of the world outside of Talia’s perspective. The focus allowed me to attach to her emotions and reasonings, but I was curious how far this system really extends.
Overall, this was deeply uncomfortable in a way that felt intentional. It doesn’t scream, it whispers, and somehow, that made it worse.
If you like stories that make you question the difference between care and control… with a Handmsid's Tale vibe, this one will absolutely get under your skin.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with this ALC in exchange for my honest feedback. I highly enjoyed the narrator and pace as this was for sure different from what I am used to. Thanks!
Rating: 4.5
I knew early on this book was about to stress me out. Obstetrix by Naomi Kritzer gave me immediate "The Handmaid's Tale" energy… but quieter, more controlled, and honestly? That made it feel even more uncomfortable.
Through Talia, everything felt normal at first. Structured. Purposeful. Even comforting. She believes in what she’s doing by serving both faith and community as an obstetrix. The deeper I got, the more that “care” started to feel… conditional. Like, it only exists as long as everyone stays obedient.
That’s what really made me say, IKYFL!
The women in this world are included in conversations about their bodies, but not actually given power. They’re guided, reassured, “allowed” to participate… but only within lines that were drawn for them. That blurred line between consent and compliance? Yeah, this book sits right there and refuses to get TF on... (STRESSED)
What made this especially tense is that Talia isn’t some instant rebel. She’s part of the system. She’s been trained by it, shaped by it, and benefits from it in certain ways. So watching her slowly realize what’s actually happening and what her role in it means, felt less like a rebellion arc, and more like a moral unraveling.
Once the stakes around childbirth really lock in... Whew. Every decision starts to feel like life or death because now it’s not just about belief, It’s about consequences.
By the end, I wasn’t looking for a perfect resolution. I just needed to see what she would choose when it actually mattered. I was also anticipating a plot twist at the end like something involving her dad... because, why not?
If I had one critique, I did find myself wanting just a little more of the world outside of Talia’s perspective. The focus allowed me to attach to her emotions and reasonings, but I was curious how far this system really extends.
Overall, this was deeply uncomfortable in a way that felt intentional. It doesn’t scream, it whispers, and somehow, that made it worse.
If you like stories that make you question the difference between care and control… with a Handmsid's Tale vibe, this one will absolutely get under your skin.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with this ALC in exchange for my honest feedback. I highly enjoyed the narrator and pace as this was for sure different from what I am used to. Thanks!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is coming out at exactly the right time. Netflix just dropped Trust Me: The False Prophet all about an FLDS man who, unshockingly, formed his own little psycho cult that believed the Queen of England was meant to marry him. This is a good precursor or follow up to watching that.
Obstetrix starts out very quickly. Dr. Liz is an obstetrician who received lots of unwanted attention after a routine abortion case turned into a media storm. Though she was found to be correct in her decision to abort for the safety of the pregnant woman, the reputation has followed her. During a job interview that seemed no more insidious than any other interview, Dr. Liz is kidnapped and taken to a strict religious compound in desperate need of an OB/GYN. Liz wars with her desire to escape and to help the women at this compound, but quickly realizes she will need to be careful if she wishes to survive at all.
The premise of this book is a banger - woman who performs an abortion is kidnapped by a freaky religious cult that is, ostensibly, extremely anti-abortion. The thing is, though, that the abortion thing doesn't really ever come up again. It's the prime selling point for the book, but the cult kidnaps Dr. Liz for her services and seems to know basically nothing about the scandalous abortion case - that, or they don't care.
The villain in this book feels like it never emerges because Liz's fight seems to be with the cult itself. As such, the inclusion of characters like the Pastor or Sarah doesn't really land in the way I assume that the author intended. Liz never has a one-on-one conversation with the Pastor so although there is physical punishment being doled out by his word, he never achieves the level of insidiousness that would make this book more tense. There is also a man who was charged with killing the last doctor on the compound (whose names I have forgotten because every character sort of meshes together) that seems like a threat, but doesn't technically show any threatening behavior towards Liz herself.
More or less, this book feels like a strong draft that relies heavily on the reader's knowledge of religious cults like Jonestown, FLDS, and Waco to fill in the gaps of the story. Of course the pastor is a bad guy - all these cult leaders are! I think some stronger character development and a bit more interaction between the characters would turn this into a really excellent read. The premise is there - the execution just fell a bit short for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a DRC of this title.
Obstetrix starts out very quickly. Dr. Liz is an obstetrician who received lots of unwanted attention after a routine abortion case turned into a media storm. Though she was found to be correct in her decision to abort for the safety of the pregnant woman, the reputation has followed her. During a job interview that seemed no more insidious than any other interview, Dr. Liz is kidnapped and taken to a strict religious compound in desperate need of an OB/GYN. Liz wars with her desire to escape and to help the women at this compound, but quickly realizes she will need to be careful if she wishes to survive at all.
The premise of this book is a banger - woman who performs an abortion is kidnapped by a freaky religious cult that is, ostensibly, extremely anti-abortion. The thing is, though, that the abortion thing doesn't really ever come up again. It's the prime selling point for the book, but the cult kidnaps Dr. Liz for her services and seems to know basically nothing about the scandalous abortion case - that, or they don't care.
The villain in this book feels like it never emerges because Liz's fight seems to be with the cult itself. As such, the inclusion of characters like the Pastor or Sarah doesn't really land in the way I assume that the author intended. Liz never has a one-on-one conversation with the Pastor so although there is physical punishment being doled out by his word, he never achieves the level of insidiousness that would make this book more tense. There is also a man who was charged with killing the last doctor on the compound (whose names I have forgotten because every character sort of meshes together) that seems like a threat, but doesn't technically show any threatening behavior towards Liz herself.
More or less, this book feels like a strong draft that relies heavily on the reader's knowledge of religious cults like Jonestown, FLDS, and Waco to fill in the gaps of the story. Of course the pastor is a bad guy - all these cult leaders are! I think some stronger character development and a bit more interaction between the characters would turn this into a really excellent read. The premise is there - the execution just fell a bit short for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a DRC of this title.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
*DOES CONTAIN SPOILERS*
Liz, an OB/GYN, looking for new work is kidnapped by a cult to be their doctor. Once she starts seeing patients, Liz must decide if she should escape and how to bring help to her patients in the cult.
This was a pleasant unexpected surprise. I enjoyed the character development and plot of the book. From the premise, I was assuming this was going to be a pro-life vs pro-choice book. However, the book, mainly in my opinion, is about the use of people controlling others' lives to the point of harm that gets overlooked. The author does a beautiful job bringing about the horrors of abusive religion that claims Jesus but is more about power and control. The pacing of this short read is great and keeps you going till the end. "Obsterix" is an easy on-sit read.
However... honestly...
There are some issues I had with the book. First, the premise of a cult going way out of their way across multiple states to kidnap this one doctor felt a farfetched as it wasn't really explained how they got her information or how there was a connection. Second, knowing from the premise that Liz had performed an abortion (which made her unemployed) felt a bit of a stretch for a fundamentalist cult to go after her when nothing in the book actually talked about the abortion issue. Third, the cult felt lacking. While the parts were there and had my attention, it felt odd how so many had cellphones and such and wanted to get out, but the controlling of people wasn't explained enough to warrant why these people didn't just call 911. That felt off as the story went on.
Overall, the book makes itself seem like a futuristic book, but cults like this do happen. But, is this book about pro-life vs pro-choice? It seems that it was so hounded on in the very beginning, but wasn't brought up why the cult wanted her specifically (clash of beliefs). But, good characters and emotions in the book have lows and highs perfect for an attention-grabbing read. Great for people to read as discussionS build of empathy for people in cults or the question of controlling people.
I would recommend this as a fairly good book to read for a short thriller. Sci-Fi? Maybe? But definitely thriller. But, this book could open up some great discussions.
On Sale June 9!!
*Thanks to Tor Publishing Group for a free ARC copy to honestly review for the upcoming sale!*
Liz, an OB/GYN, looking for new work is kidnapped by a cult to be their doctor. Once she starts seeing patients, Liz must decide if she should escape and how to bring help to her patients in the cult.
This was a pleasant unexpected surprise. I enjoyed the character development and plot of the book. From the premise, I was assuming this was going to be a pro-life vs pro-choice book. However, the book, mainly in my opinion, is about the use of people controlling others' lives to the point of harm that gets overlooked. The author does a beautiful job bringing about the horrors of abusive religion that claims Jesus but is more about power and control. The pacing of this short read is great and keeps you going till the end. "Obsterix" is an easy on-sit read.
However... honestly...
There are some issues I had with the book. First, the premise of a cult going way out of their way across multiple states to kidnap this one doctor felt a farfetched as it wasn't really explained how they got her information or how there was a connection. Second, knowing from the premise that Liz had performed an abortion (which made her unemployed) felt a bit of a stretch for a fundamentalist cult to go after her when nothing in the book actually talked about the abortion issue. Third, the cult felt lacking. While the parts were there and had my attention, it felt odd how so many had cellphones and such and wanted to get out, but the controlling of people wasn't explained enough to warrant why these people didn't just call 911. That felt off as the story went on.
Overall, the book makes itself seem like a futuristic book, but cults like this do happen. But, is this book about pro-life vs pro-choice? It seems that it was so hounded on in the very beginning, but wasn't brought up why the cult wanted her specifically (clash of beliefs). But, good characters and emotions in the book have lows and highs perfect for an attention-grabbing read. Great for people to read as discussionS build of empathy for people in cults or the question of controlling people.
I would recommend this as a fairly good book to read for a short thriller. Sci-Fi? Maybe? But definitely thriller. But, this book could open up some great discussions.
On Sale June 9!!
*Thanks to Tor Publishing Group for a free ARC copy to honestly review for the upcoming sale!*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An obstetrician who has found herself at a low point being post trial, jobless, and pretty hopeless after being almost prosecuted for giving the last abortion in North Dakota. Finds herself pretty desperate to practice again, she is lured to interview for a OB/GYN position that quickly goes south when she she wakes up rather deliriously in the back of a van with no clue how long she has been out or what state she is even in. She soon arrives at a commune where an extremely patriarchal, tech free, religious cult resides. The point of kidnapping is because they need her to serve as their onsite OB/GYN.
This was such an interesting read, I’ve consumed a lot of true crimes that specifically focus on cults but I have never had the perspective of someone being kidnapped and forced into a cult (obviously this is fiction). I know people are severely manipulated and preyed on and that’s how indoctrination works but this perspective of being truly forced and not “drinking the koolaid” if you will was just something I hadn’t considered before. So kudos there Naomi!
What I enjoyed about this book (which this is funny to say as I typed bc anxiety is not fun) is the second hand anxiety I felt. I was kidnapped by this cult, I was trapped by this cult, I had my autonomy stripped away by this cult. No way of contact to the outside world, no tech to even know what time it is, no way to even know what state you are in. That is so uncomfortable- I cannot even fathom.
Even though this story is somewhat repetitive because again, she has one assignment on this cult and the way most function is to almost keep in a hypnotized routine every day. I still felt the thriller aspect of this story. I think that’s something that can be very hard to nail down when the days have to be monotonous for the sake of the story telling.
My one yearn is that we got more of the main character interacting with people within the cult for the sake of character development and expansion. The amount of time that she was in there I felt this would’ve been a natural step in the story.
Overall enjoyed the read! Thank you NetGalley and Naomi Kritzer for the early copy!
3.7/5 stars.
This was such an interesting read, I’ve consumed a lot of true crimes that specifically focus on cults but I have never had the perspective of someone being kidnapped and forced into a cult (obviously this is fiction). I know people are severely manipulated and preyed on and that’s how indoctrination works but this perspective of being truly forced and not “drinking the koolaid” if you will was just something I hadn’t considered before. So kudos there Naomi!
What I enjoyed about this book (which this is funny to say as I typed bc anxiety is not fun) is the second hand anxiety I felt. I was kidnapped by this cult, I was trapped by this cult, I had my autonomy stripped away by this cult. No way of contact to the outside world, no tech to even know what time it is, no way to even know what state you are in. That is so uncomfortable- I cannot even fathom.
Even though this story is somewhat repetitive because again, she has one assignment on this cult and the way most function is to almost keep in a hypnotized routine every day. I still felt the thriller aspect of this story. I think that’s something that can be very hard to nail down when the days have to be monotonous for the sake of the story telling.
My one yearn is that we got more of the main character interacting with people within the cult for the sake of character development and expansion. The amount of time that she was in there I felt this would’ve been a natural step in the story.
Overall enjoyed the read! Thank you NetGalley and Naomi Kritzer for the early copy!
3.7/5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Obstetrix by Naomi Kritzer is a masterclass in suspense and tension. As someone who used to work in Labor & Delivery, I am naturally drawn to medical narratives, but combining that experience with the intriguing Branch Davidian-style cult and a veteran influenced sub plot made this a "recipe for success" for me.
The story follows Dr. Elizabeth Gwinn, who survives a high-profile trial only to find herself trapped in a living nightmare during a job interview gone wrong. The pacing was relentless—I was biting my nails the entire time, constantly questioning what I would do in her shoes. The world-building is so thorough and the characters so relatable that it often felt less like fiction and more like a true crime deep dive.
Final Verdict: Obstetrix is a high-tension thriller that feels terrifyingly plausible. Naomi Kritzer has crafted a story that is as intellectually stimulating as it is pulse-pounding. If you want a book that makes you question your own survival instincts, this is it. My only complaint? I wanted more, ended far too quickly! Add this to your TBR immediately!
🗓 Mark your calendars for June 9, 2026!
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars.
+++I have been given this eARC and this is my honest review+++
I want to thank @netgalley @naomikrit and @torbooks @tordotcompub for allowing me to read this amazing eARC. I truly feel honored to have had the privilege to read and review it.
The story follows Dr. Elizabeth Gwinn, who survives a high-profile trial only to find herself trapped in a living nightmare during a job interview gone wrong. The pacing was relentless—I was biting my nails the entire time, constantly questioning what I would do in her shoes. The world-building is so thorough and the characters so relatable that it often felt less like fiction and more like a true crime deep dive.
Final Verdict: Obstetrix is a high-tension thriller that feels terrifyingly plausible. Naomi Kritzer has crafted a story that is as intellectually stimulating as it is pulse-pounding. If you want a book that makes you question your own survival instincts, this is it. My only complaint? I wanted more, ended far too quickly! Add this to your TBR immediately!
🗓 Mark your calendars for June 9, 2026!
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars.
+++I have been given this eARC and this is my honest review+++
I want to thank @netgalley @naomikrit and @torbooks @tordotcompub for allowing me to read this amazing eARC. I truly feel honored to have had the privilege to read and review it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was an FLDS/Scientology vibe if I've ever read one (outside of Leah Remini's memoir). In it, an OBGYN named Liz is abducted during a fake interview after recently being acquitted for performing a medically-necessary abortion.
She is drugged and driven who-knows-where and forced to live on the compound of a religious cult that's in need of a permanent doctor. She spends every moment of every day trying to find ways to get help or leave or even get a message to her elderly father, but she has a hard time determining who she can trust - especially knowing someone on the compound shot the last kidnapped doctor for not following orders.
This book was...something. We learn a lot about how Liz works and thinks, and it's clear that Kritzer did her homework when it comes to medical terminology and procedures (she says in the Acknowledgments that she worked with a gynecologist). It wasn't overwhelmingly jargony but had the right about of information that made me understand what was serious and what these women went through on the compound.
We also see the daily minutia of the religious cult. What they're allowed to do (nothing but also sewing); what they're not allowed to do (be alone or talk); where they're allowed to go (the cafeteria). This aspect of the novel was the most interesting to me because we see it through the lens of an outsider. There were moments when not a lot was happening outside of Liz trying to strategize or build relationships, but when things were happening, it was bananas. My biggest gripe (and there really aren't many) is that it went on a little too long. Most of the last chapter felt unnecessary. I would have appreciated a little more ambiguity, but that's just my opinion. It was an overall good book, and I will be recommending it.
*Thanks to NetGalley, Tor Publishing Group, and Naomi Kritzer for this eARC. This review contains my honest, authentic thoughts and opinions.*
She is drugged and driven who-knows-where and forced to live on the compound of a religious cult that's in need of a permanent doctor. She spends every moment of every day trying to find ways to get help or leave or even get a message to her elderly father, but she has a hard time determining who she can trust - especially knowing someone on the compound shot the last kidnapped doctor for not following orders.
This book was...something. We learn a lot about how Liz works and thinks, and it's clear that Kritzer did her homework when it comes to medical terminology and procedures (she says in the Acknowledgments that she worked with a gynecologist). It wasn't overwhelmingly jargony but had the right about of information that made me understand what was serious and what these women went through on the compound.
We also see the daily minutia of the religious cult. What they're allowed to do (nothing but also sewing); what they're not allowed to do (be alone or talk); where they're allowed to go (the cafeteria). This aspect of the novel was the most interesting to me because we see it through the lens of an outsider. There were moments when not a lot was happening outside of Liz trying to strategize or build relationships, but when things were happening, it was bananas. My biggest gripe (and there really aren't many) is that it went on a little too long. Most of the last chapter felt unnecessary. I would have appreciated a little more ambiguity, but that's just my opinion. It was an overall good book, and I will be recommending it.
*Thanks to NetGalley, Tor Publishing Group, and Naomi Kritzer for this eARC. This review contains my honest, authentic thoughts and opinions.*
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