The Widow’s War A Novel

The Widow’s War A Novel by Sally Gunning, published by HarperCollins on January 30, 2007, is a historical fiction narrative that explores the life of Lyddie, a woman grappling with the challenges of being a whaler’s wife in the Cape Cod village of Satucket, Massachusetts. After twenty years of marriage to Edward Berry, Lyddie faces the profound grief of losing her husband at sea, only to find herself further burdened by the legal constraints that transfer her property and rights to her daughter’s husband, a man she cannot tolerate. This edition, reprinted and comprising 336 pages, delves into Lyddie’s struggle against societal norms as she seeks to reclaim control over her life.

Readers will find a rich portrayal of Lyddie’s emotional journey as she confronts both personal loss and the rigid customs of her time. The narrative highlights her determination to challenge the legal and social barriers that dictate her fate, revealing the steep costs of her quest for independence. This edition also includes additional content such as the “story behind the story,” a map of colonial Brewster, and a driving tour of Satucket, providing further context to Lyddie’s world and the historical backdrop of her struggles.