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The Beauty Doctor
"Beauty is power," Dr. Rome told her. "And with enough power, one can achieve anything." Straightening noses, trimming eyelids, lifting jowls . . . In the year 1907, his revolutionary beauty surgery is considered daring, perhaps dangerous. Still, women want what Dr. Rome promises. Neither is his young assistant Abigail Platford immune to Dr. Rome's persuasive charm.
Abigail once dreamed of becoming a doctor, though of a much different sort. That dream ended with her father's tragic death from a medical error for which she holds herself responsible. Dr. Rome, who proudly displays his medical degree from Johns Hopkins, seems to believe in her. If he were willing to act as her mentor, might there still be a chance to fulfill her dream of someday becoming a doctor serving New York City's poor?
But something feels terribly wrong, as though an insidious evil is closing in. Broken promises, lies, and intrigues abound. The powerful are threatening to destroy the weak, and a doctor's sacred duty hangs in the balance. Abigail no longer knows who to believe; but with Dr. Rome now her mentor and her lover, she desperately wants to trust him.
Even when she discovers that one of their patients has mysteriously disappeared.
Abigail once dreamed of becoming a doctor, though of a much different sort. That dream ended with her father's tragic death from a medical error for which she holds herself responsible. Dr. Rome, who proudly displays his medical degree from Johns Hopkins, seems to believe in her. If he were willing to act as her mentor, might there still be a chance to fulfill her dream of someday becoming a doctor serving New York City's poor?
But something feels terribly wrong, as though an insidious evil is closing in. Broken promises, lies, and intrigues abound. The powerful are threatening to destroy the weak, and a doctor's sacred duty hangs in the balance. Abigail no longer knows who to believe; but with Dr. Rome now her mentor and her lover, she desperately wants to trust him.
Even when she discovers that one of their patients has mysteriously disappeared.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2024
476 people are currently reading
4872 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard
5 books299 followersElizabeth Hutchison Bernard is an award-winning author of historical fiction. Her Amazon Kindle bestselling novel SISTERS OF CASTLE LEOD (2023) is the haunting, emotionally charged story of two sisters torn apart by jealousy and superstition, and the impossible leap of faith that could finally bring them together.
“Heartbreaking and redemptive, inspired by a true story of two very different, equally passionate sisters who were both destined to forge new paths for women in a tumultuous time. A richly imagined and thoroughly engrossing tale that will have readers quickly turning the pages.” --Megan Chance, bestselling author of A SPLENDID RUIN
In researching her novel, Elizabeth traveled to Scotland to tour Castle Leod and meet with the 5th Earl of Cromartie, grandson of one of the sisters, Sibell Lilian Mackenzie--countess, spiritualist, and romantic novelist. Lord Cromartie talked about the mystery of the fifteenth-century castle’s resident ghost, The Night Watchman, which plays a role in the novel. Elizabeth’s exploration of the psychic realm, key to Sibell’s life and character, led her to London and the Spiritualist Association of Great Britain, where she met with several psychics who attempted to contact the departed countess. But Elizabeth’s travels to the Highlands and London were only the beginning. Upon her return, she spent three years on further research and writing. Telling the story of the Mackenzie sisters in Sibell’s voice, Elizabeth deftly transports readers to another time and place, introducing them to two incredible women who, in many ways, were ahead of their time.
"This expertly written novel is a beautiful example of how historical facts can be researched and transformed into a work of art. To say this novel was difficult to put down would be an understatement. From the first page, I knew this would become one of my favorite historical novels." --Sublime Book Reviews, 5 stars
Elizabeth's novels have received honors including: Editors' Choice, Historical Novel Society (2023); Gold Medal, 2023 Maxy Awards; Silver Medal, 2023 Arizona Literary Contest; Finalist, Eric Hoffer Book Award; Finalist, National Indie Excellence Awards; Gold Medallion, Book Readers Appreciation Group; and Discovered Diamond emblem.
TEMPTATION RAG: A NOVEL. The world of ragtime is the backdrop for a remarkable story about the price of freedom, the longing for immortality, and the human need to find forgiveness. From vaudeville's greatest stars to the geniuses of early African American musical theater, an unforgettable cast of real-life characters populates this richly fictionalized historical saga.
THE BEAUTY DOCTOR. In 1907, a young woman’s quest to become a physician entangles her in a web of treachery that challenges her most cherished beliefs about a doctor’s sacred duty and threatens to destroy all she loves. Set in New York City, this gripping historical thriller delves into the early practice of cosmetic surgery.
Elizabeth is a summa cum laude graduate of Northwestern University (Evanston, Illinois) and a former public relations executive. She and her family live near Phoenix, Arizona.
“Heartbreaking and redemptive, inspired by a true story of two very different, equally passionate sisters who were both destined to forge new paths for women in a tumultuous time. A richly imagined and thoroughly engrossing tale that will have readers quickly turning the pages.” --Megan Chance, bestselling author of A SPLENDID RUIN
In researching her novel, Elizabeth traveled to Scotland to tour Castle Leod and meet with the 5th Earl of Cromartie, grandson of one of the sisters, Sibell Lilian Mackenzie--countess, spiritualist, and romantic novelist. Lord Cromartie talked about the mystery of the fifteenth-century castle’s resident ghost, The Night Watchman, which plays a role in the novel. Elizabeth’s exploration of the psychic realm, key to Sibell’s life and character, led her to London and the Spiritualist Association of Great Britain, where she met with several psychics who attempted to contact the departed countess. But Elizabeth’s travels to the Highlands and London were only the beginning. Upon her return, she spent three years on further research and writing. Telling the story of the Mackenzie sisters in Sibell’s voice, Elizabeth deftly transports readers to another time and place, introducing them to two incredible women who, in many ways, were ahead of their time.
"This expertly written novel is a beautiful example of how historical facts can be researched and transformed into a work of art. To say this novel was difficult to put down would be an understatement. From the first page, I knew this would become one of my favorite historical novels." --Sublime Book Reviews, 5 stars
Elizabeth's novels have received honors including: Editors' Choice, Historical Novel Society (2023); Gold Medal, 2023 Maxy Awards; Silver Medal, 2023 Arizona Literary Contest; Finalist, Eric Hoffer Book Award; Finalist, National Indie Excellence Awards; Gold Medallion, Book Readers Appreciation Group; and Discovered Diamond emblem.
TEMPTATION RAG: A NOVEL. The world of ragtime is the backdrop for a remarkable story about the price of freedom, the longing for immortality, and the human need to find forgiveness. From vaudeville's greatest stars to the geniuses of early African American musical theater, an unforgettable cast of real-life characters populates this richly fictionalized historical saga.
THE BEAUTY DOCTOR. In 1907, a young woman’s quest to become a physician entangles her in a web of treachery that challenges her most cherished beliefs about a doctor’s sacred duty and threatens to destroy all she loves. Set in New York City, this gripping historical thriller delves into the early practice of cosmetic surgery.
Elizabeth is a summa cum laude graduate of Northwestern University (Evanston, Illinois) and a former public relations executive. She and her family live near Phoenix, Arizona.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 15, 2017
The author takes me back in time. Instantly, I shared a connection with Abigail. Additionally, she was a bit of a feminist. She did not conform to the idea that she had to marry. She threw that away for a chance to pursue her interest in medicine. This is where Dr. Rome steps in. He was a charmer. As the story started out, he was kind but the further you get into the story, you start to see a different side of Dr. Rome. He was like Dr. Jekyll and Dr. Hyde.
The price of beauty became more about what it was worth to you and how far would you go. I have never been sold on the idea of plastic surgery for myself but it was amazing to think of how far back people have desired perfection. Although, Dr. Rome may have changed, he was not the only one. Abigail went from a young naïve girl to a strong woman. This book had all the elements of a great book...characters, intriguing and well-written storyline, and lovely time period. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
The price of beauty became more about what it was worth to you and how far would you go. I have never been sold on the idea of plastic surgery for myself but it was amazing to think of how far back people have desired perfection. Although, Dr. Rome may have changed, he was not the only one. Abigail went from a young naïve girl to a strong woman. This book had all the elements of a great book...characters, intriguing and well-written storyline, and lovely time period. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
January 4, 2024
A tale of ambition, manipulation and beauty surgery. Abigail dream to be a doctor, when she became Doctor Rome assistant she thinks that is her opportunity to shine. But Dr. Rome starts to made belive that she can be only a beauthiful ornament, just like his actions start to made her doubt his true nature.
This book is a intrestion portion of the society of xix centuary, the way people view someone as "beauthiful" and who they dispise the ones that have deformations.
This book is a intrestion portion of the society of xix centuary, the way people view someone as "beauthiful" and who they dispise the ones that have deformations.
September 4, 2017
Elizabeth Bernard's debut novel will grip you from the beginning with its strong historical details of the Edwardian Age, a time of propriety and second-class citizenship for women. I liked Abigail because of her naivety. She's the innocent we all were at one time. Without family support she is brave enough to extricate herself from an engagement and thrust herself out into the world. The suspense builds as she meets Dr. Rome, a man who offers her some independence and an opportunity to learn something new—beauty surgery. Bernard paints the scenes that will keep you turning pages—the smell of fresh grass at a garden party, an encounter with men who support eugenics, an innovative idea at the time, and the snobbery of women who are threatened by her. The moral question of whether we're different on the inside after we've changed the outside is a good one to ponder in today's beauty-hungry world. Bernard expresses herself well and I look forward to more from this author.
April 20, 2024
What an amazing book Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard has written! The Beauty Doctor will leave you stunned and feeling lucky you weren't around in 1907 when cosmetic surgeons, or as they were called then beauty doctors were just becoming popular with the rich and elite. I'm always looking for that great historical fiction read that teaches me something about the past I'd never thought of, and this book was stellar in portraying the rudimentary procedures offered. Everything from paraffin injections for wrinkles to nose jobs to remove unwanted bumps on their noses. It's chilling to read how these procedures were conducted, but the book is so much more.
When greed takes over the oath that says, "First do no harm" it is Abigail who saw her doctor father do amazing things with his ever-grateful patients which lead to her dream of also attending medical school. After her father's death she takes a job with Dr. Rome, a beauty doctor who trained at John Hopkin hoping to further her medical experience but instead she is the one who breaks open the trail of disasters and unlawful catastrophes being carried out and the greed behind those decisions.
The book covers a lot of ground and most of it may shock you. It was a quick read and unputdownable. The characters are well written and reading what Abigail went through as Dr. Rome's assistant is astounding. She had her morals and values, and every time Dr. Rome did something unscrupulous with a patient, she tried to make things right for the sake of the patient, not the doctor. Through most of the book Aigail is torn between furthering her medical knowledge and caring for these patients in a humane way. The two don't often come together in this story. "First do no harm" is not every doctor's individual oath especially when notoriety and money come into the picture. I enjoyed this one very much and can't see it leaving my mind any time soon! Happy Reading!
When greed takes over the oath that says, "First do no harm" it is Abigail who saw her doctor father do amazing things with his ever-grateful patients which lead to her dream of also attending medical school. After her father's death she takes a job with Dr. Rome, a beauty doctor who trained at John Hopkin hoping to further her medical experience but instead she is the one who breaks open the trail of disasters and unlawful catastrophes being carried out and the greed behind those decisions.
The book covers a lot of ground and most of it may shock you. It was a quick read and unputdownable. The characters are well written and reading what Abigail went through as Dr. Rome's assistant is astounding. She had her morals and values, and every time Dr. Rome did something unscrupulous with a patient, she tried to make things right for the sake of the patient, not the doctor. Through most of the book Aigail is torn between furthering her medical knowledge and caring for these patients in a humane way. The two don't often come together in this story. "First do no harm" is not every doctor's individual oath especially when notoriety and money come into the picture. I enjoyed this one very much and can't see it leaving my mind any time soon! Happy Reading!
January 16, 2024
The Beauty Doctor by Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard is an enchanting Historical Fiction novel set in the early 1900s New York City, a time when women were still often regarded as second-class citizens and men ruled the world.
Abigail dreamed of becoming a doctor, especially after her father died of a medical error. After breaking off her engagement to a man she didn't know or love, she sought work and housing. She met Doctor Franklin Rome who offered her a job as his assistant as well as a place to live. As a transformative surgeon he made his living beautifying women, known as cosmetic surgery today. The two were irresistible to each other and began a romantic relationship. However, life has a funny way of not working out as planned. There are many deliciously deep layers of deception in this story beneath the ripples on the surface.
As I am very interested in medicine, the procedures themselves captivated me, especially the (non-gory) details of how they were done over one hundred years ago. Abigail's growth from naivete to maturity was interesting to observe as were the personal ambitions of the characters, all with different motivations. One of the reasons to read Historical Fiction is to learn historical information and The Beauty Doctor is a unique portrayal of the lengths women at the time went through to improve their physical features (in their minds). Not only did the story itself pull me in but the gorgeous writing carried me to a different world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Abigail dreamed of becoming a doctor, especially after her father died of a medical error. After breaking off her engagement to a man she didn't know or love, she sought work and housing. She met Doctor Franklin Rome who offered her a job as his assistant as well as a place to live. As a transformative surgeon he made his living beautifying women, known as cosmetic surgery today. The two were irresistible to each other and began a romantic relationship. However, life has a funny way of not working out as planned. There are many deliciously deep layers of deception in this story beneath the ripples on the surface.
As I am very interested in medicine, the procedures themselves captivated me, especially the (non-gory) details of how they were done over one hundred years ago. Abigail's growth from naivete to maturity was interesting to observe as were the personal ambitions of the characters, all with different motivations. One of the reasons to read Historical Fiction is to learn historical information and The Beauty Doctor is a unique portrayal of the lengths women at the time went through to improve their physical features (in their minds). Not only did the story itself pull me in but the gorgeous writing carried me to a different world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 3, 2017
I’ll start by saying, in short: I enjoyed this book very much and would highly recommend it.
Historical fiction can be a difficult genre, especially when it’s set against the backdrop of a scientific advance. Too much focus on the facts alone can make for a dry narrative; too much focus on the narrative can result in anachronism, when an author forgets the historical setting.
I’m so pleased to report that this book (and its author) fell prey to neither of those traps! The narrative – storyline, pacing, dialogue, character development – are anything but dry. Quite the opposite! In fact, I finished the book in less than 24 hours because even when I put it down, I found myself wondering how the situation in which Abigail found herself would resolve! (That, for me, is the mark of a good read.)
Further, I found that the author’s treatment of an interesting medical era – specifically, the development of plastic surgery – was full and rich, woven seamlessly into a plot that contained questions about scientific ethics (including eugenics), socioeconomic class issues, feminism in the pre-suffrage era, romance and professional propriety, and a woman’s role in the working world. To take on those looming questions (some of which still face us in the modern era) through fiction had to be no easy feat, and I commend Ms. Bernard highly for such an accomplishment. Anyone who purchases “The Beauty Doctor” undoubtedly will learn something, and I daresay each reader will end up engaged in a “dialogue” with the book over some of the interesting ethical dilemmas Abigail faces!
I’ve never come across a book quite like this in the genre, and I believe this book truly offers something for everyone!
Historical fiction can be a difficult genre, especially when it’s set against the backdrop of a scientific advance. Too much focus on the facts alone can make for a dry narrative; too much focus on the narrative can result in anachronism, when an author forgets the historical setting.
I’m so pleased to report that this book (and its author) fell prey to neither of those traps! The narrative – storyline, pacing, dialogue, character development – are anything but dry. Quite the opposite! In fact, I finished the book in less than 24 hours because even when I put it down, I found myself wondering how the situation in which Abigail found herself would resolve! (That, for me, is the mark of a good read.)
Further, I found that the author’s treatment of an interesting medical era – specifically, the development of plastic surgery – was full and rich, woven seamlessly into a plot that contained questions about scientific ethics (including eugenics), socioeconomic class issues, feminism in the pre-suffrage era, romance and professional propriety, and a woman’s role in the working world. To take on those looming questions (some of which still face us in the modern era) through fiction had to be no easy feat, and I commend Ms. Bernard highly for such an accomplishment. Anyone who purchases “The Beauty Doctor” undoubtedly will learn something, and I daresay each reader will end up engaged in a “dialogue” with the book over some of the interesting ethical dilemmas Abigail faces!
I’ve never come across a book quite like this in the genre, and I believe this book truly offers something for everyone!
August 21, 2017
I loved this book. Elizabeth captured the protagonist's struggle with the standards of the time, and I was profoundly impressed with the historical research she must have done to establish the setting and the theme. To me, it was a real page-turner. I flew through the pages although I didn't want it to end. Couldn't wait to see how Abigail Platford would overcome all the obstacles. What a strong young woman.
Highly recommended!
Highly recommended!
September 7, 2017
"The Beauty Doctor" was an interesting period piece about a young medical apprentice who begins to notice the doctor she shadows is becoming more mysterious and strange. He operates on children without their permission. Abigail becomes increasingly worried as she meets a pair of conjoined twins who Dr. Rome plans to operate on. His collaboration with an oddities museum terrifies Abigail and the readers to read on and see what happens next.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, and I'm very appreciative of this historical fiction thriller. I plan to follow Ms. Bernard's books in the future.
I also have to mention that I really enjoyed the "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" and Alfred Hitchcock vibes.
I received a complementary copy from the author for review purposes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, and I'm very appreciative of this historical fiction thriller. I plan to follow Ms. Bernard's books in the future.
I also have to mention that I really enjoyed the "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" and Alfred Hitchcock vibes.
I received a complementary copy from the author for review purposes.
August 25, 2024
This was an amazing book! I was impressed with the dialog and character development.. But more interesting was the introduction of early practices of eugenics and "beauty" doctors also known as transformative surgeons. Quite the fascinating start of new medical practices. I highly recommend this book!
October 18, 2024
The story was interesting from the beginning and eventually became a page turner.
December 11, 2017
Hutchison Bernard took me back to a historical time in New York City before women had the right to vote, when most did not have a ‘voice.’ Miss Platford, our young heroine, struggles to find her way alone through a maze of people who love her, abandon her, snub her, betray her, test her, and condemn her. Lacking confidence and resources, Abigail faces life altering situations that haunt her as she carries the guilt of her past into a dark world of treachery, lies, kidnapping, and murder.
Abigail longs to be a physician. She is torn in following her father’s career path, a family physician focused on health; or that of the charismatic doctor she loves and respects, who focuses on beauty… and greed. Dr. Rome ‘rescues’ her and capitalizes on her youthful beauty and naivety as he plots to become powerful in the largely unregulated field of medicine at the turn of the century. This journey is wrought with adversity, risky decisions, and troubling dilemmas.
I read the 356-page book in less than three days…one night reading until dawn. The book captures the essence of history: the struggle of women in the early 1900s with the tenacity of one young woman who refuses to let go of her dream.
Abigail longs to be a physician. She is torn in following her father’s career path, a family physician focused on health; or that of the charismatic doctor she loves and respects, who focuses on beauty… and greed. Dr. Rome ‘rescues’ her and capitalizes on her youthful beauty and naivety as he plots to become powerful in the largely unregulated field of medicine at the turn of the century. This journey is wrought with adversity, risky decisions, and troubling dilemmas.
I read the 356-page book in less than three days…one night reading until dawn. The book captures the essence of history: the struggle of women in the early 1900s with the tenacity of one young woman who refuses to let go of her dream.
January 20, 2018
Perfect autumnal weather to read my fellow writing friend's book debut! Update: so it took me awhile to sit/read EHB's book but - my fault, not hers - so when I did (thanks winter/cold/flu storm!) it flew by. Truly a fast read, but not due to slick surface writing. Her prose is smooth, detailed and delicate - delightful. She grounds her story using historical research brought alive via real-life sensory input. Fancy dinner parties, surgical suites, carriages rattling across cobblestone streets - the reader is invited into a beautifully painted landscape where characters interact, manipulate and triumph. Class and gender roles restrict a woman seeking to realize her dream of becoming a doctor. This is not a melodramatic book and wouldn't fit EHB's writing if it was. Characters quietly make big decisions and take action in believable ways. Morals shift, compromised by basic needs then reassert when faced with another's life-or-death outcome. A well-plotted storyline is led by a fully-rounded heroine set in an area and time not often written about, let alone entertainingly. Cosmetic surgery in 1900s NYC? Kudos, Elizabeth! Now... please gift us with another book. Music, perhaps? ;-)
January 8, 2024
I was drawn to this book because of the premise of it and also by the gorgeous cover, unfortunately the book didn't live to my expectations.
Even though the story was very engaging until almost half of the book it wasn't much after that. Abigail perils and story was very interesting, her interest in medicine, her background and her desire to learn about medicine was very uplifting to read, but as the book moved along it felt that this goal of hers gets relegated to the back burner and the morbid curiosity for the less unfortunate beings in society, like the siamese twins, get first stage in the story.
I do liked the writing and the research the author shows in the details of the setting of the book, but I'm afraid I'll have to go against the current and not give the book more than 3 stars. I would have loved to love this book, since this isn't the first book that I have read by this author, and having love the other one that I read by her.
Even though the story was very engaging until almost half of the book it wasn't much after that. Abigail perils and story was very interesting, her interest in medicine, her background and her desire to learn about medicine was very uplifting to read, but as the book moved along it felt that this goal of hers gets relegated to the back burner and the morbid curiosity for the less unfortunate beings in society, like the siamese twins, get first stage in the story.
I do liked the writing and the research the author shows in the details of the setting of the book, but I'm afraid I'll have to go against the current and not give the book more than 3 stars. I would have loved to love this book, since this isn't the first book that I have read by this author, and having love the other one that I read by her.
August 31, 2017
The year is 1907. Women still wear their hair over layers of padding, they wear corsets and covers, which require a maid to help with dressing, they have no recourse when it comes to homeliness or when a small facial defect assumes huge proportions in a young woman’s mind. Make-up is minimal or non-existent in most homes. This is a prime time for the Beauty Doctor to move into your neighborhood.
Abigail Platford is about to flee the home of her soon-to-be in-laws and their son, her fiancé, leaving them far behind. These very wealthy people are smothering Abigail with their disapproval of both her and the upcoming marriage between her and their son. Arthur Hennessy isn’t truly interested in Abigail and she isn’t in him either. This is an easy way for Abigail to regain a home that was lost and for Arthur to cover his interest in a young man. The night before she is leaving, she meets Dr. Franklin Rome, a very handsome man, who causes a hot flush to creep over her face, as they introduce themselves to each other.
Abigail’s father had been a doctor and had encouraged her dream of one day becoming one, as well. Now, without the support of her father, she knows it is only a dream, but she does have a good start in the medical field, having worked with him. She must find employment immediately, if she is to survive. She thinks of Dr. Rome and, knowing where his current patient resides, she chooses to wait outside for him in the hope of him employing her.
It takes a little time for the doctor to decide he has just the job for her. He explains to her that he is a ‘Beauty Doctor’. He is the one who fixes a bump on a woman’s nose, injects her wrinkled skin with paraffin, and heals lesions on her face. He needs Abigail to attend parties or women’s gatherings, where she can basically advertise for him. Abigail, herself a beautiful woman, is unsure of the honesty of this ploy, but involves herself deeper and deeper in Dr. Rome’s medical practice.
As I read this book, I wondered if Dr. Rome is for real. He’s very good at his job, but soon he shows himself to be wholly driven by money. He does work hard to improve his skill, but that involves kidnapping people off the street. Abigail is so enthralled by him that she talks herself into accepting anything. Even a very questionable business venture involving other doctors.
I didn’t find Dr. Rome to be an empathetic character. In fact, I pretty much disliked him from the beginning. He’s a philanderer on a grand scale and Abigail is overly innocent when he starts to be interested in her. Abigail hasn’t any discernment; she hopes this is true love.
There were several characters you are meant to dislike. In fact, it seemed like almost everyone lacked any redeeming qualities. The book is well written without any shortcuts in the storyline. I do think that I should have liked Abigail more, but her turning a blind eye to the doctor put me off. Most readers will find this to be a very good story. It’s highly involved in right-and-wrong, good vs. evil.
The rating:
Genre and general reading age – I call this ‘historical’. It is not a romance in my opinion, and the reading age would be late teen and adult.
Level of sexuality – There was one scene that was a bit graphic. Other than that, it was tame.
Is there graphic language? Not a lot.
Did I cry? No.
Did I laugh? No.
Is this part of a series? No.
Level of character development – I was most interested in Abigail, as she is the main character. I was sorry for her predicament; it was go along or be back on the streets. However, I really didn’t think much of her. She gained strength as time went on. I just expected more from her.
I give this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars.
Abigail Platford is about to flee the home of her soon-to-be in-laws and their son, her fiancé, leaving them far behind. These very wealthy people are smothering Abigail with their disapproval of both her and the upcoming marriage between her and their son. Arthur Hennessy isn’t truly interested in Abigail and she isn’t in him either. This is an easy way for Abigail to regain a home that was lost and for Arthur to cover his interest in a young man. The night before she is leaving, she meets Dr. Franklin Rome, a very handsome man, who causes a hot flush to creep over her face, as they introduce themselves to each other.
Abigail’s father had been a doctor and had encouraged her dream of one day becoming one, as well. Now, without the support of her father, she knows it is only a dream, but she does have a good start in the medical field, having worked with him. She must find employment immediately, if she is to survive. She thinks of Dr. Rome and, knowing where his current patient resides, she chooses to wait outside for him in the hope of him employing her.
It takes a little time for the doctor to decide he has just the job for her. He explains to her that he is a ‘Beauty Doctor’. He is the one who fixes a bump on a woman’s nose, injects her wrinkled skin with paraffin, and heals lesions on her face. He needs Abigail to attend parties or women’s gatherings, where she can basically advertise for him. Abigail, herself a beautiful woman, is unsure of the honesty of this ploy, but involves herself deeper and deeper in Dr. Rome’s medical practice.
As I read this book, I wondered if Dr. Rome is for real. He’s very good at his job, but soon he shows himself to be wholly driven by money. He does work hard to improve his skill, but that involves kidnapping people off the street. Abigail is so enthralled by him that she talks herself into accepting anything. Even a very questionable business venture involving other doctors.
I didn’t find Dr. Rome to be an empathetic character. In fact, I pretty much disliked him from the beginning. He’s a philanderer on a grand scale and Abigail is overly innocent when he starts to be interested in her. Abigail hasn’t any discernment; she hopes this is true love.
There were several characters you are meant to dislike. In fact, it seemed like almost everyone lacked any redeeming qualities. The book is well written without any shortcuts in the storyline. I do think that I should have liked Abigail more, but her turning a blind eye to the doctor put me off. Most readers will find this to be a very good story. It’s highly involved in right-and-wrong, good vs. evil.
The rating:
Genre and general reading age – I call this ‘historical’. It is not a romance in my opinion, and the reading age would be late teen and adult.
Level of sexuality – There was one scene that was a bit graphic. Other than that, it was tame.
Is there graphic language? Not a lot.
Did I cry? No.
Did I laugh? No.
Is this part of a series? No.
Level of character development – I was most interested in Abigail, as she is the main character. I was sorry for her predicament; it was go along or be back on the streets. However, I really didn’t think much of her. She gained strength as time went on. I just expected more from her.
I give this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars.
December 20, 2023
The Beauty Doctor is a work of fiction set in the early 1900's when the medical field was in it's infancy. Regulatory bodies were not yet in place and quackery abounded.
It was also a time of social upheaval as well. Women were just starting to demand attention not only for their family ties, but also for their own inherent worth as individuals. It was a time when the old and the new were very much at loggerheads with each other and social status was not the defining standard.
Many people made fortunes selling snake oils that promised all kinds of magical results and often times these potions and lotions were causing some very serious problems.
European trends on what constituted beauty abounded. Hence some very unsavory characters who called themselves "Doctor", managed to make themselves known to those who were wealthy and could afford their services. Working on these women's weaknesses was what worked for them. Subtle and sometimes not so subtle augmentation could make a woman feel beautiful and therefore much more attractive to her peer group.
The Beauty Doctor is the story of a young woman (Abigail), whose father was a decent doctor, and in whose footsteps she had hoped to follow. She routinely would aid her father when he made house calls and became quite efficient and proficient at many of the tasks she assisted with. What she needed now was the proper education to continue in her quest to become a doctor in truth. Alas, such was not to be the case, Abigail's father has died and her mother remarried. The new step father was not adverse to make lewd advances to his beautiful new step-daughter.
Stunned by this turn of events in her life, she decides to leave home and ask a friend for sanctuary. Arthur has taken her into his home. Being part of New York society at that time, it was only shortly after her arrival in the Hennessy Family that Arthur knew he would have to propose so that the family could keep their heads held high in their social circle. Again Abigail's life is taking a turn she did not wish for herself. She wants to become a doctor and has to find a way to do just that.
At the party to introduce Abigail to the rest of New York society, Abigail finds herself seated next to Dr. Franklin Rome, who is accompanying another wealthy socialite to this affair. He has a way about him. ""Beauty is power," Dr. Rome told her. "And with enough power, one can achieve anything." And here the plot thickens. Abigail sees a possibility that might just get her out of this engagement and further her own desires.
What follows is a twisting and turning story of her introduction to what we know today as cosmetic surgery.
This book was a very interesting story and you could picture yourself watching these lives unfold. What lengths some people would go through for their own sometimes perverse ideas of what human beauty should be and look like. I'm sure you will find it interesting and thought provoking. So many ideas being put forth by the new medical establishment and funded by those who have the money to do so.
This book certainly makes you see what was possible in an unregulated profession such as medicine was and why it's a good thing that regulations are in place today. It's a history lesson that I won't forget anytime soon for sure.
For anyone who enjoys historical novels and the development of society as we know it today, this book will surely be a hit. The Beauty Doctor scores more than 4 out of 5 stars on it's Amazon ratings.
I was given an advanced copy of the second edition by #booksirens in exchange for my honest review,
I would not hesitate to recommend this as a great book to read and/or enjoy with a book club. It certainly makes you stop and think!
It was also a time of social upheaval as well. Women were just starting to demand attention not only for their family ties, but also for their own inherent worth as individuals. It was a time when the old and the new were very much at loggerheads with each other and social status was not the defining standard.
Many people made fortunes selling snake oils that promised all kinds of magical results and often times these potions and lotions were causing some very serious problems.
European trends on what constituted beauty abounded. Hence some very unsavory characters who called themselves "Doctor", managed to make themselves known to those who were wealthy and could afford their services. Working on these women's weaknesses was what worked for them. Subtle and sometimes not so subtle augmentation could make a woman feel beautiful and therefore much more attractive to her peer group.
The Beauty Doctor is the story of a young woman (Abigail), whose father was a decent doctor, and in whose footsteps she had hoped to follow. She routinely would aid her father when he made house calls and became quite efficient and proficient at many of the tasks she assisted with. What she needed now was the proper education to continue in her quest to become a doctor in truth. Alas, such was not to be the case, Abigail's father has died and her mother remarried. The new step father was not adverse to make lewd advances to his beautiful new step-daughter.
Stunned by this turn of events in her life, she decides to leave home and ask a friend for sanctuary. Arthur has taken her into his home. Being part of New York society at that time, it was only shortly after her arrival in the Hennessy Family that Arthur knew he would have to propose so that the family could keep their heads held high in their social circle. Again Abigail's life is taking a turn she did not wish for herself. She wants to become a doctor and has to find a way to do just that.
At the party to introduce Abigail to the rest of New York society, Abigail finds herself seated next to Dr. Franklin Rome, who is accompanying another wealthy socialite to this affair. He has a way about him. ""Beauty is power," Dr. Rome told her. "And with enough power, one can achieve anything." And here the plot thickens. Abigail sees a possibility that might just get her out of this engagement and further her own desires.
What follows is a twisting and turning story of her introduction to what we know today as cosmetic surgery.
This book was a very interesting story and you could picture yourself watching these lives unfold. What lengths some people would go through for their own sometimes perverse ideas of what human beauty should be and look like. I'm sure you will find it interesting and thought provoking. So many ideas being put forth by the new medical establishment and funded by those who have the money to do so.
This book certainly makes you see what was possible in an unregulated profession such as medicine was and why it's a good thing that regulations are in place today. It's a history lesson that I won't forget anytime soon for sure.
For anyone who enjoys historical novels and the development of society as we know it today, this book will surely be a hit. The Beauty Doctor scores more than 4 out of 5 stars on it's Amazon ratings.
I was given an advanced copy of the second edition by #booksirens in exchange for my honest review,
I would not hesitate to recommend this as a great book to read and/or enjoy with a book club. It certainly makes you stop and think!
December 18, 2017
Abigail’s engagement reception is here, but the fact that her fiancée Arthur doesn’t seem so keen, indicated in line, “there was a young man standing there, rather handsome in a delicate sort of way, with a look of distress about him that mirrored Arthur’s distracted air,” means the marriage is soon called off, and by Abigail who was reluctant to join Arthur’s rich family, and have the role of a wife, so it would have been a marriage of convenience. She met at this reception a man with an acrid scent, who will soon set Abigail on a new path, and employment, as, with her engagement off, Abigail is now without a home, and destitute.
The man is Doctor Franklin Rome, and what follows is a slow unfolding story of deception, intrigue, and mystery. The reveal of Abigail’s background, why she is so alone in the world, and her father, her biggest influence, and the tragedy that occurred plays into the text.
Abigail is shocked to find it is not medicine that Rome is a Doctor in, but beauty surgery, or what we now call cosmetic, or plastic, surgery. She agrees to become his assistant.
There seems to be two stories here, one is the very infancy of Rome’s beauty surgery business, and the astute observations between the lofty heights of the rich, where the money is, and the poor, who are used as guinea pigs to practise the surgery on. Abigail wishes she can help the poverty stricken children, and is a caring person, who does grow as a character, and becomes more confident with her decisions. Rome does not so much undergo transformation, he is a baddie through and through. You can see right through him.
From us finding out the methods that are used to get bumps out of noses, and remove wrinkles, Rome becomes ambitious, as he partners with a man willing to provide the ideas, the chutzpah
and to draw in investors interested in funding a beauty surgery, while the ultimate prize, which will elicit much attention, and therefore business, the operation of smoothing the bumps on the noses of conjoined twins. This could be a risky procedure, and the twins guardian is against it, but duped into parting with them, it is only Abigail who can step in and stop the twins becoming fodder for the unscrupulous surgeon Rome, and his business partner.
The Beauty Doctor questions what is beauty, what are the benefits of surgery? And also the roles of women at that time – the ‘new woman’ who dresses like a man, and has short hair, and the women, like Abigail, who find themselves unable to have a high position in medicine. Simply because they are a woman.
I was not at all surprised one of the author’s favourite author’s is Sarah Walters, as their styles are quite similar. This is a solid debut. I enjoyed The Beauty Doctor even more reading it a second time, and it’s an excellent fictional account of cosmetic surgery, that continues to be debated today, and was even more of a novelty in the early 1900’s, that you won’t often find written about, with such great accuracy as well. It also talks about the woman’s role in society, and that’s a relevant subject too. There can be a lot learnt from the past.
(I received a free copy of The Beauty Doctor for an honest, unbiased, review)
The man is Doctor Franklin Rome, and what follows is a slow unfolding story of deception, intrigue, and mystery. The reveal of Abigail’s background, why she is so alone in the world, and her father, her biggest influence, and the tragedy that occurred plays into the text.
Abigail is shocked to find it is not medicine that Rome is a Doctor in, but beauty surgery, or what we now call cosmetic, or plastic, surgery. She agrees to become his assistant.
There seems to be two stories here, one is the very infancy of Rome’s beauty surgery business, and the astute observations between the lofty heights of the rich, where the money is, and the poor, who are used as guinea pigs to practise the surgery on. Abigail wishes she can help the poverty stricken children, and is a caring person, who does grow as a character, and becomes more confident with her decisions. Rome does not so much undergo transformation, he is a baddie through and through. You can see right through him.
From us finding out the methods that are used to get bumps out of noses, and remove wrinkles, Rome becomes ambitious, as he partners with a man willing to provide the ideas, the chutzpah
and to draw in investors interested in funding a beauty surgery, while the ultimate prize, which will elicit much attention, and therefore business, the operation of smoothing the bumps on the noses of conjoined twins. This could be a risky procedure, and the twins guardian is against it, but duped into parting with them, it is only Abigail who can step in and stop the twins becoming fodder for the unscrupulous surgeon Rome, and his business partner.
The Beauty Doctor questions what is beauty, what are the benefits of surgery? And also the roles of women at that time – the ‘new woman’ who dresses like a man, and has short hair, and the women, like Abigail, who find themselves unable to have a high position in medicine. Simply because they are a woman.
I was not at all surprised one of the author’s favourite author’s is Sarah Walters, as their styles are quite similar. This is a solid debut. I enjoyed The Beauty Doctor even more reading it a second time, and it’s an excellent fictional account of cosmetic surgery, that continues to be debated today, and was even more of a novelty in the early 1900’s, that you won’t often find written about, with such great accuracy as well. It also talks about the woman’s role in society, and that’s a relevant subject too. There can be a lot learnt from the past.
(I received a free copy of The Beauty Doctor for an honest, unbiased, review)
March 23, 2024
The Beauty Doctor is a powerful, richly drawn historical thriller that is as terrifying as it is absorbing. Highly recommended.
Aspiring doctor Abigail Platford has nearly given up on her dream to follow in her father’s footsteps to help New York City’s poor. After her father’s death and her mother’s remarriage, she fends off an attempted rape by her alcoholic stepfather – a situation that finds her agreeing to marry a man she can’t imagine a future with in order to escape. The Beauty Doctor opens five months before the planned wedding date, as Abigail prepares to attend an engagement party intended to introduce her to New York high-society.
The lavish costume party achieves the exact opposite of what Abigail’s future in-laws hoped. Instead of ingratiating the young couple into high society, Abigail is revolted by the wealthy in attendance, and her career aspirations are reinvigorated by a discussion of Gray’s Anatomy with the handsome doctor seated next to her. The next morning she awakens convinced that she must somehow call it off. She throws herself at the mercy of the man she met at the party, Dr. Franklin Rome, a surgeon who has trained at Johns Hopkins and in Europe. Dr. Rome’s speciality is “transformative surgery” (what will eventually become known as plastic surgery), and he offers her a position as his assistant as well as a place to stay.
The first sign that she’s made a terrible mistake comes when an unconscious boy is mysteriously delivered to Dr. Rome’s practice. Abigail is put into an impossible situation as she realizes that the boy is about to undergo experimental surgery without his consent. To her horror, she realizes that this – experimenting on the defenseless and the poor – is how Dr. Rome develops new techniques. “One day, he’ll be grateful,” Dr. Rome assures her. When she doesn’t agree, he threatens her position: “Maybe you’re not a good fit for this practice after all.”
If Dr. Rome is in the habit of experimenting on unconscious boys, what else is he capable of? And when Abigail discovers what else he’s up to, what will she do about it?
Throughout the novel, author Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard — who excels at using vivid imagery to bring the Edwardian era to life – creates suspense by putting Abigail into a series of realistic scenarios in which she has to make impossibly difficult choices. The moment Abigail dons a butcher’s apron and assists with Dr. Rome’s surgery is a new low, and one in which the opportunity to somehow fulfill her dreams to work in medicine and live with herself seem completely at odds. To add context to Abigail’s decisions, Bernard opens the book with a prologue explaining that in the early 20th century, a shutdown in many American medical schools meant far fewer legitimate opportunities for women to become doctors.
Through Abigail’s vulnerability, Bernard provides a trusted lens through which we can experience the horror and promise of early 20th century medicine. Every indignity Abigail endures only serves to create an even bigger payoff when she eventually hatches a workable plan forward. The Beauty Doctor will no doubt earn Bernard new fans.
Aspiring doctor Abigail Platford has nearly given up on her dream to follow in her father’s footsteps to help New York City’s poor. After her father’s death and her mother’s remarriage, she fends off an attempted rape by her alcoholic stepfather – a situation that finds her agreeing to marry a man she can’t imagine a future with in order to escape. The Beauty Doctor opens five months before the planned wedding date, as Abigail prepares to attend an engagement party intended to introduce her to New York high-society.
The lavish costume party achieves the exact opposite of what Abigail’s future in-laws hoped. Instead of ingratiating the young couple into high society, Abigail is revolted by the wealthy in attendance, and her career aspirations are reinvigorated by a discussion of Gray’s Anatomy with the handsome doctor seated next to her. The next morning she awakens convinced that she must somehow call it off. She throws herself at the mercy of the man she met at the party, Dr. Franklin Rome, a surgeon who has trained at Johns Hopkins and in Europe. Dr. Rome’s speciality is “transformative surgery” (what will eventually become known as plastic surgery), and he offers her a position as his assistant as well as a place to stay.
The first sign that she’s made a terrible mistake comes when an unconscious boy is mysteriously delivered to Dr. Rome’s practice. Abigail is put into an impossible situation as she realizes that the boy is about to undergo experimental surgery without his consent. To her horror, she realizes that this – experimenting on the defenseless and the poor – is how Dr. Rome develops new techniques. “One day, he’ll be grateful,” Dr. Rome assures her. When she doesn’t agree, he threatens her position: “Maybe you’re not a good fit for this practice after all.”
If Dr. Rome is in the habit of experimenting on unconscious boys, what else is he capable of? And when Abigail discovers what else he’s up to, what will she do about it?
Throughout the novel, author Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard — who excels at using vivid imagery to bring the Edwardian era to life – creates suspense by putting Abigail into a series of realistic scenarios in which she has to make impossibly difficult choices. The moment Abigail dons a butcher’s apron and assists with Dr. Rome’s surgery is a new low, and one in which the opportunity to somehow fulfill her dreams to work in medicine and live with herself seem completely at odds. To add context to Abigail’s decisions, Bernard opens the book with a prologue explaining that in the early 20th century, a shutdown in many American medical schools meant far fewer legitimate opportunities for women to become doctors.
Through Abigail’s vulnerability, Bernard provides a trusted lens through which we can experience the horror and promise of early 20th century medicine. Every indignity Abigail endures only serves to create an even bigger payoff when she eventually hatches a workable plan forward. The Beauty Doctor will no doubt earn Bernard new fans.
March 17, 2018
Abigail Platford is the daughter of a doctor though now she's on her own in New York City. After a failed engagement, she finds work as an assistant for Dr. Franklin Rome. She always wanted to study medicine like her father, and Dr. Rome offers to help her. He's one of a new breed of doctors, a beauty doctor or, what we'd call today, a cosmetic surgeon. Abigail is beautiful, perfect as a foil to help Dr. Rome acquire new and wealthy clients.
When a very rich man invites them to Scarsdale and offers to make Dr. Rome a partner in his new institute for beauty surgery, Abigail is dubious. But she's in love with Dr. Rome and goes along with his wishes. As time goes on, events prove there is more to Dr. Rome, his wealthy patron, and the institute.
This is a very interesting book about the beginnings of cosmetic surgery and the study of eugenics which was a popular doctrine from around 1900 to World War II. The book is well-researched and also an enthralling story that makes the reader want to continue. There's a mix of interesting characters surrounding Abigail, and the author does a nice job of integrating them into the story.
As a personal quirk, I didn't care for Abigail much, but she fit into the story well. She's so naive and blunders into situations that I had a hard time sympathizing with her, but that was probably just me, and it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book. A very interesting read about a subject I knew little about.
When a very rich man invites them to Scarsdale and offers to make Dr. Rome a partner in his new institute for beauty surgery, Abigail is dubious. But she's in love with Dr. Rome and goes along with his wishes. As time goes on, events prove there is more to Dr. Rome, his wealthy patron, and the institute.
This is a very interesting book about the beginnings of cosmetic surgery and the study of eugenics which was a popular doctrine from around 1900 to World War II. The book is well-researched and also an enthralling story that makes the reader want to continue. There's a mix of interesting characters surrounding Abigail, and the author does a nice job of integrating them into the story.
As a personal quirk, I didn't care for Abigail much, but she fit into the story well. She's so naive and blunders into situations that I had a hard time sympathizing with her, but that was probably just me, and it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book. A very interesting read about a subject I knew little about.
September 19, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Beauty Doctor is a fascinating look at early 1900s New York society. The book takes a potent look at class structure, gender equity, and ethical questions of science. Abigail is naïve enough to engage with the duplicitous Dr. Franklin Rome, but self-possessed enough to question his motivation. When Rome partners with an enterprising and questionable investor to create a beauty institute, the novel takes a dark and dramatic turn. The beauty doctor is historical fiction meets macabre thriller.
The Beauty Doctor is a bit of an isolating read; few characters are worth identifying with, save Abigail. She is smart and resourceful while maintaining charming likeability. Her unbreakable spirit and wide-eyed optimism contrast nicely with the dark subject matter within. She’s not perfect, however. Abigail is seduced by the opportunities Rome provides, albeit temporarily. Given the historical context, however, who can blame her? Ultimately, Abigail navigates a world where she is very much an underdog with pluck and determination.
Bernard’s fictional take on the advent of plastic surgery is both educational and entertaining. It’s demoralising, however, that in the last 100 years not much has changed; female insecurity remains highly profitable.
Reviewed for ismellsheep.com
The Beauty Doctor is a fascinating look at early 1900s New York society. The book takes a potent look at class structure, gender equity, and ethical questions of science. Abigail is naïve enough to engage with the duplicitous Dr. Franklin Rome, but self-possessed enough to question his motivation. When Rome partners with an enterprising and questionable investor to create a beauty institute, the novel takes a dark and dramatic turn. The beauty doctor is historical fiction meets macabre thriller.
The Beauty Doctor is a bit of an isolating read; few characters are worth identifying with, save Abigail. She is smart and resourceful while maintaining charming likeability. Her unbreakable spirit and wide-eyed optimism contrast nicely with the dark subject matter within. She’s not perfect, however. Abigail is seduced by the opportunities Rome provides, albeit temporarily. Given the historical context, however, who can blame her? Ultimately, Abigail navigates a world where she is very much an underdog with pluck and determination.
Bernard’s fictional take on the advent of plastic surgery is both educational and entertaining. It’s demoralising, however, that in the last 100 years not much has changed; female insecurity remains highly profitable.
Reviewed for ismellsheep.com
December 18, 2023
This was not the book I expected. From the book's description, I thought that it would be historical fiction mixed with a bit of romance. While there is a historical fiction element to the book, I wouldn't really consider it a romance. Mystery, crime fiction, or suspense would be the genres that I would pick to describe this book.
As a warning to readers, there is a bit of swearing, and there's some behind-the-scenes violence. The on-the-page violence is mostly domestic violence. This includes physical violence as well as at least one scene where there was some sexual violence (although it was not described in graphic detail).
There are a few scenes where you know that the characters are about to have sex or where they talk about it having happened, but you don't get the graphic details of the actual events.
This book includes some potentially controversial topics. Some of them are particularly controversial for the time frame. Some that come to mind include cosmetic surgery, natural selection of humans, involuntary sterilization of humans, involuntary institutionalization, domestic violence, prostitution, the exploitation of those with deformities (such as Siamese twins), and sexism. I felt like the author handled these topics in a sensitive manner.
Overall, while this wasn't the book that I expected to read, it was a really enjoyable read. I'd probably give it 4.5 stars.
I received an ARC for free from BookSirens, and I left a voluntary review.
As a warning to readers, there is a bit of swearing, and there's some behind-the-scenes violence. The on-the-page violence is mostly domestic violence. This includes physical violence as well as at least one scene where there was some sexual violence (although it was not described in graphic detail).
There are a few scenes where you know that the characters are about to have sex or where they talk about it having happened, but you don't get the graphic details of the actual events.
This book includes some potentially controversial topics. Some of them are particularly controversial for the time frame. Some that come to mind include cosmetic surgery, natural selection of humans, involuntary sterilization of humans, involuntary institutionalization, domestic violence, prostitution, the exploitation of those with deformities (such as Siamese twins), and sexism. I felt like the author handled these topics in a sensitive manner.
Overall, while this wasn't the book that I expected to read, it was a really enjoyable read. I'd probably give it 4.5 stars.
I received an ARC for free from BookSirens, and I left a voluntary review.
April 21, 2024
THE BEAUTY DOCTOR by Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard intertwines the allure of beauty with the sinister depths of human ambition. Given recent news reports, as of this writing, in April 2024, around serious side effects from Botox injections, it appears little has changed since 1907, the timeframe of the story when paraffin wax was used in a similar manner.
In THE BEAUTY DOCTOR, beauty is measured not only on the surface, but presented as a currency of power. The story’s antagonist, Dr. Rome, performs his revolutionary surgeries with an irresistible promise to women who seek to transform their lives. The exploration of societal standards of beauty and the lengths individuals will go to attain it adds a layer of depth to the narrative, resonating with contemporary themes. At the heart of the story is Abigail Platford, whose troubled journey reveals her hopes and flaws. A haunting of past aspirations and Abby’s loyalty to Dr. Rome, serve as captivating anchors amidst intrigue and suspense.
Bernard presents a vivid portrayal of early 20th-century New York City to add authenticity to the setting. Readers become immersed in the darker side of glamour in a quest for perfection, moving along a spectrum of an interpretation of perfection when the disturbing issue of eugenics emerges. I thoroughly enjoyed this surprising tale of history interwoven with human desires. 4.5 rounded to 5.
In THE BEAUTY DOCTOR, beauty is measured not only on the surface, but presented as a currency of power. The story’s antagonist, Dr. Rome, performs his revolutionary surgeries with an irresistible promise to women who seek to transform their lives. The exploration of societal standards of beauty and the lengths individuals will go to attain it adds a layer of depth to the narrative, resonating with contemporary themes. At the heart of the story is Abigail Platford, whose troubled journey reveals her hopes and flaws. A haunting of past aspirations and Abby’s loyalty to Dr. Rome, serve as captivating anchors amidst intrigue and suspense.
Bernard presents a vivid portrayal of early 20th-century New York City to add authenticity to the setting. Readers become immersed in the darker side of glamour in a quest for perfection, moving along a spectrum of an interpretation of perfection when the disturbing issue of eugenics emerges. I thoroughly enjoyed this surprising tale of history interwoven with human desires. 4.5 rounded to 5.
Read
September 24, 2024The story is about Abagail Platford, who wants more than anything to be a doctor. Her father is a doctor and she watched and help him, however he dies.
Abigail takes a basement apartment in NYC under Dr. Franklin Rose. The two characters couldn't be more different. Abigail is moral, kind, idealistic, and cares about the patient. However, she has the courage to do the right thing.
Dr. Rose is ambitious, self centered, and controling, not to mention good looking. He wants to be famous for his "Transformative surgery* in other words, cosmetic.
The story examines the meaning of beauty. What does it mean to fix a bump in the nose. Wrinkle on the face or lips that are full?
The story is set in 1907, a time of women's suffrage and only the high class can entertain the thought of cosmetic surgery. The story moves when Dr Rose forms a partnership with a rich man and is promised his own operating theater together with a museum of human oddities, which include siamese twins.
Abagail will have her fundamental values and beliefs and scientific ethics tested.
There is deceit, lies kidnapping and even murder, yes murder!
The language is written so well. The research was massive, the characters are so well done. I read it in 3 days it was so interesting to follow. I totally recommend this book. It is unlike other mystery, murder, female, historical fiction books that i have read.!
Abigail takes a basement apartment in NYC under Dr. Franklin Rose. The two characters couldn't be more different. Abigail is moral, kind, idealistic, and cares about the patient. However, she has the courage to do the right thing.
Dr. Rose is ambitious, self centered, and controling, not to mention good looking. He wants to be famous for his "Transformative surgery* in other words, cosmetic.
The story examines the meaning of beauty. What does it mean to fix a bump in the nose. Wrinkle on the face or lips that are full?
The story is set in 1907, a time of women's suffrage and only the high class can entertain the thought of cosmetic surgery. The story moves when Dr Rose forms a partnership with a rich man and is promised his own operating theater together with a museum of human oddities, which include siamese twins.
Abagail will have her fundamental values and beliefs and scientific ethics tested.
There is deceit, lies kidnapping and even murder, yes murder!
The language is written so well. The research was massive, the characters are so well done. I read it in 3 days it was so interesting to follow. I totally recommend this book. It is unlike other mystery, murder, female, historical fiction books that i have read.!
October 14, 2023
The Beauty Doctor is a thrilling historical fiction novel set in Edwardian New York City. The story follows Abigail Platford, a young woman who dreams of becoming a doctor. However, when her father dies from a medical error for which she blames herself, she abandons her dream and takes a job as a medical assistant to Dr. Franklin Rome, a renowned beauty doctor.
Dr. Rome is a charming and charismatic man, and Abigail is quickly drawn to him. However, she soon begins to suspect that something is not quite right with him. His revolutionary beauty treatments are often dangerous, and he seems to be more interested in making money than in helping his patients.
Abigail's suspicions are confirmed when she discovers that one of their patients has mysteriously disappeared. As she investigates, she uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal that threatens to destroy everything she holds dear.
The Beauty Doctor is a well-written and suspenseful novel. The author does a masterful job of creating a vivid and atmospheric portrait of Edwardian New York City. The characters are complex and believable, and the plot is full of twists and turns.
I highly recommend The Beauty Doctor to fans of historical fiction, mystery, and suspense. It is a truly unforgettable novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.
Dr. Rome is a charming and charismatic man, and Abigail is quickly drawn to him. However, she soon begins to suspect that something is not quite right with him. His revolutionary beauty treatments are often dangerous, and he seems to be more interested in making money than in helping his patients.
Abigail's suspicions are confirmed when she discovers that one of their patients has mysteriously disappeared. As she investigates, she uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal that threatens to destroy everything she holds dear.
The Beauty Doctor is a well-written and suspenseful novel. The author does a masterful job of creating a vivid and atmospheric portrait of Edwardian New York City. The characters are complex and believable, and the plot is full of twists and turns.
I highly recommend The Beauty Doctor to fans of historical fiction, mystery, and suspense. It is a truly unforgettable novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.
August 18, 2017
This was one of the most interesting books I have read in some time. I enjoy the historical aspect to it. Being set in 1907 New York City intrigued me from the very beginning. Add it to that aspect of the story the lovely Abigail Platford. She was a thrilling woman who had long wanted to be involved in medicine, like her father.
Unfortunately for Abigail at first she was engaged but that took a turn after she met Dr. Rome. Dr. Rome caused her curiosity to pique. He worked in medicine and offered her a position. He wanted to use her to help him get patients for his beauty procedures. An assortment of interesting situations is experienced by Abigail. She meets unusual characters such as Shark, conjoined twins, a young girl, and a young boy who was a patient of Dr. Rome.
She makes her way through this life asking questions. Trying to find out who she really is and what she wants out of her life. The twists and turns in this book were rather surprising to me. I admired some of the things Abigail did and would love to think that in my mind, I knew what happened to her after the book ended.
Overall this was an interesting book, which poses a number of interesting questions regarding vanity, plastic surgery, being true to oneself, as well as following your heart.
Unfortunately for Abigail at first she was engaged but that took a turn after she met Dr. Rome. Dr. Rome caused her curiosity to pique. He worked in medicine and offered her a position. He wanted to use her to help him get patients for his beauty procedures. An assortment of interesting situations is experienced by Abigail. She meets unusual characters such as Shark, conjoined twins, a young girl, and a young boy who was a patient of Dr. Rome.
She makes her way through this life asking questions. Trying to find out who she really is and what she wants out of her life. The twists and turns in this book were rather surprising to me. I admired some of the things Abigail did and would love to think that in my mind, I knew what happened to her after the book ended.
Overall this was an interesting book, which poses a number of interesting questions regarding vanity, plastic surgery, being true to oneself, as well as following your heart.
October 30, 2023
In this debut novel, a beautiful young woman desires to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a doctor. Not an easy task in the early 1900s. She finds herself impulsively going from one uncomfortable, untenable situation to another. Will she always be judged and used for her beauty?
A strange mix of YA romance and historical mystery thriller, this book will either intrigue or frustrate you. I appreciated the authors research into early cosmetic surgery as it added authenticity to the scenes. I felt it lacked a true historical feel and could have been set at any time. A bit more fleshing out of her family life and the high society she found herself in would have helped.
Abigail seems so isolated and alone and the interactions between the different characters is quite abrupt. I think the disconnect I felt between the characters typify novels written during Covid. The character interactions improved greatly towards the end. Although it touched on many deeply disturbing themes, they were tastefully handled. Everything was tied up in a neat bow at the end with some intriguing options available for Abigail’s future. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All in all, a good first novel.
A strange mix of YA romance and historical mystery thriller, this book will either intrigue or frustrate you. I appreciated the authors research into early cosmetic surgery as it added authenticity to the scenes. I felt it lacked a true historical feel and could have been set at any time. A bit more fleshing out of her family life and the high society she found herself in would have helped.
Abigail seems so isolated and alone and the interactions between the different characters is quite abrupt. I think the disconnect I felt between the characters typify novels written during Covid. The character interactions improved greatly towards the end. Although it touched on many deeply disturbing themes, they were tastefully handled. Everything was tied up in a neat bow at the end with some intriguing options available for Abigail’s future. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All in all, a good first novel.
January 7, 2024
The Beauty Doctor, by Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard, is a facinating historical medical drama. It was so interesting to read about the different procedures performed in early plastic surgery.
Dr Rome believes in the power of beauty. So, when he meets aspiring physician, Abigail Platford, he sets his sights on convincing her to become his assistant. Though he doesn't practice the kind of medicine that she's interested in, she agrees. She still hopes that she can glean some important medical tidbits from him.
At first she's excited to find that they're helping the less fortunate, though it's not in the most ethical way. But the more she gets to know the good doctor, the more confused she becomes. Refusing to listen to her instincts, she soon finds herself in the company of some of the most inhumane people that she's ever met. These people want to do away with those that they believe are less than themselves.
When she learns that one of their most recent patients has disappeared, she finally realized that she must do whatever it takes to try and right some very serious wrongs.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Dr Rome believes in the power of beauty. So, when he meets aspiring physician, Abigail Platford, he sets his sights on convincing her to become his assistant. Though he doesn't practice the kind of medicine that she's interested in, she agrees. She still hopes that she can glean some important medical tidbits from him.
At first she's excited to find that they're helping the less fortunate, though it's not in the most ethical way. But the more she gets to know the good doctor, the more confused she becomes. Refusing to listen to her instincts, she soon finds herself in the company of some of the most inhumane people that she's ever met. These people want to do away with those that they believe are less than themselves.
When she learns that one of their most recent patients has disappeared, she finally realized that she must do whatever it takes to try and right some very serious wrongs.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2017
In the book, we meet Abigail, a young woman who dreams of becoming a doctor. She takes a job with a cosmetic surgeon in hopes of learning all she can, but soon becomes infatuated with the lure of what cosmetic surgery can do for a person. Abigail starts to admire what she is learning even though working with Dr. Rome has her stepping way out of her comfort zone, while introducing her to some of the most prominent people in New York. Abigail is doing things she would normally not do because this opportunity means everything to her.
This book touches on women’s roles in this era of time, politics, hint of romance and how concern people were with their looks and cosmetic surgery, which I wasn’t expecting when I started reading it. The characters are ones you either like or don’t like. I will say the transformation Abigail goes through and the actions she takes throughout the book made me invest in her character. This has been by far the strangest book I have read in 2017 but it was enjoyable.
I received this book from the author for review purpose only.
Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews
3 Stars=Okay Page Turner
This book touches on women’s roles in this era of time, politics, hint of romance and how concern people were with their looks and cosmetic surgery, which I wasn’t expecting when I started reading it. The characters are ones you either like or don’t like. I will say the transformation Abigail goes through and the actions she takes throughout the book made me invest in her character. This has been by far the strangest book I have read in 2017 but it was enjoyable.
I received this book from the author for review purpose only.
Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews
3 Stars=Okay Page Turner
November 27, 2023
The early days of plastic surgery is such an interesting topic, and I think the author did a great job of delving into it. Her attention to historical detail is evident, and I enjoyed her setting descriptions and variety of characters.
I think this book had a lot of potential for moral ambiguity, but it was quite clear who the reader was supposed to like and dislike. For me, this made the book a lot more predictable. I would have liked the “bad guys” to be a bit more relatable and the “good guys” to have more faults. For instance, our heroine, Abigail, seemed to conveniently share the same opinions on all social issues as a modern reader would, despite the story taking place in the early twentieth century.
Beyond that, I would definitely recommend The Beauty Doctor to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Incredible debut novel and beautiful story!
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I think this book had a lot of potential for moral ambiguity, but it was quite clear who the reader was supposed to like and dislike. For me, this made the book a lot more predictable. I would have liked the “bad guys” to be a bit more relatable and the “good guys” to have more faults. For instance, our heroine, Abigail, seemed to conveniently share the same opinions on all social issues as a modern reader would, despite the story taking place in the early twentieth century.
Beyond that, I would definitely recommend The Beauty Doctor to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Incredible debut novel and beautiful story!
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 7, 2024
This book The beauty doctor piqued my interest with its title and description.
It does mention this is a republication which the timing I think is perfect.
1907- New York
All Abigail Platchard wanted was to be a doctor knowing the restrictions women faced and being groomed for high society that just wasn't her path. Being raised with greys anatomy by her father knowing it back and forth it seemed all was well.
Dr. Rome a transformative beauty doctor runs into her raving about her looks with the idea of her being a foil girl. The poor women rich women of today how can they get married. Abigail platchard soon sees that it turns into Eugenics as the Perfect Person which leaves Abigail conflicted also the idea of rich versus poor.
I recommend this book due to the historical accuracy the author goes in and it is really well written and captiviating. ( I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
It does mention this is a republication which the timing I think is perfect.
1907- New York
All Abigail Platchard wanted was to be a doctor knowing the restrictions women faced and being groomed for high society that just wasn't her path. Being raised with greys anatomy by her father knowing it back and forth it seemed all was well.
Dr. Rome a transformative beauty doctor runs into her raving about her looks with the idea of her being a foil girl. The poor women rich women of today how can they get married. Abigail platchard soon sees that it turns into Eugenics as the Perfect Person which leaves Abigail conflicted also the idea of rich versus poor.
I recommend this book due to the historical accuracy the author goes in and it is really well written and captiviating. ( I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
December 29, 2025
I rarely read modern day fiction novels, unless they are of a historical nature. On the surface, it appeared this novel would be some sort of exaggerated thriller with an innocent ingenue corrupted by an evil, mature male--almost Phantom of the Opera-esque in its story. However, this novel had many significant universal messages, applicable to modern times.
Medical Ethics and Moral Responsibility: I find it interesting that the doctor's name was Frank, a diminutive of Dr. Frankenstein. In Shelley's Frankenstein, we question the right of any doctor to behave in a god like fashion without considering the moral repercussions of their work. In this novel, Dr. Rome is preoccupied with his own glory and not the satisfaction of his patients, particularly when disasters are imminent. If we apply this to modern day, how many times do patients complain about feeling dismissed by their doctors? Or, think about the amount of malpractice suits filed against morally deficient surgeons. Plus, medical doctors are complicit in the abuse of pain medication, becoming pushers with degrees.
Nature vs Man Made: What is beauty? Is it in the eye of the beholder? Should it be created or perfected? Are all of nature's imperfections truly perfections? In this novel, patients are looking for outward perfection in order to feel better in their lives. Abigail is derided for believing that Nature is where true beauty lies, which contradicts Dr. Rome's mission.
Suppression of Women: Abigail, who is inquisitive, ambitious and intelligent , is only valued for her beauty. She is constantly dismissed and patronized by the males around her. The women are looked upon as hysterical fools, often treated like sex objects or children.
Eugenics: An abhorrent notion. In the novel, the seemingly educated and powerful believe people with mental and physical impairments should be eradicated. The story suggests, that left unchecked, science can be used to fulfill diabolical advancement of those in authority, which we've seen throughout history.
Exploitation: I was impressed that the author introduced this topic. (I've always been fascinated by the tragic story of John Merrick and how he strived for dignity.) Valencia and Melilla's story is fascinating and the author used them to symbolize how man exploits and demeans anyone who is unique or different.
Poverty vs Wealth: The author expertly uses poorer characters to show how wealth determines your treatment in the medical/ beauty industry. Certain characters are refused treatment or surreptitiously experimented on because of poverty.
Wellness and Beauty Industry: The author demonstrates that this is an industry, although frivolous to some, that still has a moral responsibility to be rid of its "snake-oil " reputation. It shouldn't prey on the frailties of others. Conversely, if handled correctly, it's an industry that can be used for good.
This is the best fiction novel I've read in years.
Medical Ethics and Moral Responsibility: I find it interesting that the doctor's name was Frank, a diminutive of Dr. Frankenstein. In Shelley's Frankenstein, we question the right of any doctor to behave in a god like fashion without considering the moral repercussions of their work. In this novel, Dr. Rome is preoccupied with his own glory and not the satisfaction of his patients, particularly when disasters are imminent. If we apply this to modern day, how many times do patients complain about feeling dismissed by their doctors? Or, think about the amount of malpractice suits filed against morally deficient surgeons. Plus, medical doctors are complicit in the abuse of pain medication, becoming pushers with degrees.
Nature vs Man Made: What is beauty? Is it in the eye of the beholder? Should it be created or perfected? Are all of nature's imperfections truly perfections? In this novel, patients are looking for outward perfection in order to feel better in their lives. Abigail is derided for believing that Nature is where true beauty lies, which contradicts Dr. Rome's mission.
Suppression of Women: Abigail, who is inquisitive, ambitious and intelligent , is only valued for her beauty. She is constantly dismissed and patronized by the males around her. The women are looked upon as hysterical fools, often treated like sex objects or children.
Eugenics: An abhorrent notion. In the novel, the seemingly educated and powerful believe people with mental and physical impairments should be eradicated. The story suggests, that left unchecked, science can be used to fulfill diabolical advancement of those in authority, which we've seen throughout history.
Exploitation: I was impressed that the author introduced this topic. (I've always been fascinated by the tragic story of John Merrick and how he strived for dignity.) Valencia and Melilla's story is fascinating and the author used them to symbolize how man exploits and demeans anyone who is unique or different.
Poverty vs Wealth: The author expertly uses poorer characters to show how wealth determines your treatment in the medical/ beauty industry. Certain characters are refused treatment or surreptitiously experimented on because of poverty.
Wellness and Beauty Industry: The author demonstrates that this is an industry, although frivolous to some, that still has a moral responsibility to be rid of its "snake-oil " reputation. It shouldn't prey on the frailties of others. Conversely, if handled correctly, it's an industry that can be used for good.
This is the best fiction novel I've read in years.
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