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The Specimen
Walk carefully, lest you become a part of Dr. Burnett's collection…
1826. Isobel Tait finds herself, by chance, staring at a tiny human heart floating in a jar. It should be of little consequence; Dr. Burnett is renowned for his collection of oddities and medical specimens, and this, a juvenile heart with a damaged mitral valve, is not the strangest thing on display. Except that the condition is rare, and that Isobel's young son, who has been missing for months, suffered from the ailment.
A phantom pulse beats in Isobel's ears. She knows something here isn't right.
Missing persons cases are all too common in Edinburgh, where people simply vanish like mist. But Burnett is obsessed with his specimens – how far would he go to acquire a new one? Determined to investigate, Isobel joins his staff as the keeper of his collection. What she'll unearth, though, is far worse than any of her nightmares…
Based on true crimes, The Specimen is a mesmerizing story about one woman's search for truth and vengeance in the darkest of places—where the deadliest secrets lie hidden in plain sight, on a freshly dusted shelf.
1826. Isobel Tait finds herself, by chance, staring at a tiny human heart floating in a jar. It should be of little consequence; Dr. Burnett is renowned for his collection of oddities and medical specimens, and this, a juvenile heart with a damaged mitral valve, is not the strangest thing on display. Except that the condition is rare, and that Isobel's young son, who has been missing for months, suffered from the ailment.
A phantom pulse beats in Isobel's ears. She knows something here isn't right.
Missing persons cases are all too common in Edinburgh, where people simply vanish like mist. But Burnett is obsessed with his specimens – how far would he go to acquire a new one? Determined to investigate, Isobel joins his staff as the keeper of his collection. What she'll unearth, though, is far worse than any of her nightmares…
Based on true crimes, The Specimen is a mesmerizing story about one woman's search for truth and vengeance in the darkest of places—where the deadliest secrets lie hidden in plain sight, on a freshly dusted shelf.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2024
155 people are currently reading
17647 people want to read
About the author
Jaima Fixsen
15 books191 followersJaima Fixsen is a USA Today and international bestselling author living and writing in Alberta, Canada. Her novel The Girl in His Shadow (co-authored under the pen name Audrey Blake) was selected as Libby's 2022 Big Library Read and has been translated into eight languages.
Jaima studied occupational therapy at the University of Alberta, and her experiences learning anatomy and dissecting cadavers began her fascination with the history of science and medical ethics. She loves reading, snow, mountains, snow, history and snow. And Diet Coke.
Jaima studied occupational therapy at the University of Alberta, and her experiences learning anatomy and dissecting cadavers began her fascination with the history of science and medical ethics. She loves reading, snow, mountains, snow, history and snow. And Diet Coke.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 354 reviews
November 13, 2024
In a Nutshell: A historical Gothic mystery focussed on some stomach-churning crimes. Based on true events. Not exactly a whodunnit as we already know the guilty party. But fabulous as a story depicting the extent a mother can go for her son. Slow-paced, yet gripping all the way. I loved it!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
PSA: Do yourself a favour and don't read the Goodreads blurb. It doesn't reveal too much, but it does reveal a key point that botches some of the initial suspense. Just trust me and go in blind.
Bookish Yays:
❤︎ Isobel – What an amazing character! Courageous and determined, Isobel depicts the extent to which a mother can go for her child. As a fellow mother, I felt her pain throughout and was rooting for her with all my heart.
❤︎ The two kids in the story: Thomas and ten-year-old Nan. Child characters anyway win my heart more often than not, but these two are especially memorable.
❤︎ Police detective Adam Kerr, whose biracial roots, neither from England, ensure that he faces racial discrimination from within the police force. Loved the realistic way in which his character is portrayed.
❤︎ The other supporting characters. There are quite a few of them but the book never felt overloaded to me. Each one’s personality is carved so sharply that within just a few lines, we get a pulse of their personality. None of the women in the story are weak, though not all might be angelic. The characters serve as a masterclass in human behaviour and how social aspirations and/or requirements affect personal behaviour. Brilliantly done!
❤︎ Beautiful lyrical writing with such lovely imagery that the scenes played like a movie in my head. (Admittedly, this isn't the best thing to happen in a story with such a grisly plot… Oh well!)
❤︎ As Isobel teaches the piano, Isobel’s first-person narration had plenty of musical metaphors, which I relished. These depict Isobel's musical aptitude as well as her music-oriented manner of thinking even in her descriptions of people and sounds. Best of all, these are not written in a technical way, so even readers without knowhow of classical music would be able to understand them.
❤︎ Fabulous atmosphere throughout, with several scenes causing my pulse to beat faster. The macabre medical practices thrill and chill in equal measure. The historical setting is used excellently, whether in the police investigation or the local superstitions or the medical professionals’ clique-like behaviour or the dark truth behind some medical practices.
❤︎ Several brilliant scenes where characters tell scary stories to each other – perfect to amp up the spook factor of the book.
❤︎ Multiple parallel arcs, thanks to so many events and characters, but every single arc fits into the narrative neatly without its feeling forced, and the whole plot is even settled smoothly by the end.
❤︎ So many emotions generated by this story – it is simultaneously heartwarming and heartbreaking, possibly more of the latter.
❤︎ No forced romance or any romance. The focus stays where it ought to be.
❤︎ The ending. Can’t go into spoilers so I’ll just say: Loved almost all of it!
Bookish-Yays-For-Me-Might-Be-Nays-For-Others
💕 This is not a whodunnit as the “mystery” becomes clear quite early in the plot. It is more about avenging a crime than trying to figure out the guilty party. I wasn’t reading it for the mystery anyway, so this didn’t bother me. Mystery lovers might need to realign their expectations.
💕 The proceedings are on the slower side, but this didn't bother me at all as the plotline was engrossing. Not once did my attention dip! Those who don’t like slowburn stories might need to have patience.
💕 There are some mildly paranormal events, nothing spooky or nightmare-inducing. However, these are not explained, so if you are the kind to need answers for everything, you just have to go with the flow for this.
💕 The overall story comes from three characters, two in third person and one in first person. Each of these is written brilliantly with never any confusion about why the plot needed these three points of view. Moreover, each of the perspectives has a lot happening and are thus equally important in the overall storyline. Those who don’t enjoy multi-character perspectives might struggle to keep up.
Bookish Nays:
💔 Without going into major spoilers, all I can say is: the witchy content in the final quarter doesn’t fit smoothly into the overall plot. It’s not bad, but it just feels awkwardly shoved in.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at a little more than 13 hours, is narrated by Cathleen McCarron. How have I not heard any book narrated by her before!??! She is outstanding! She has a mild Scot accent, which worried me at first as I am not too used to it. But her lilt was impeccable and not at all difficult to comprehend. The way she voices every single character distinctly was just brilliant. Emotions, conversations, inner monologues – no confusion about anything. I’d love to hear more books narrated by her.
The only issue with the audio version is that I wanted to go even faster! There were so many scenes in this fascinating story where I would have flipped the pages at full speed had I had the physical/digital version, in which case I'd have devoured the book in a day! Of course, you can increase the tempo of the audio to crazy levels if you want, but I never go above 1.75x as I want to feel like I am actually listening to a human and not a chipmunk.
The author’s note is yet again missing from the audio copy. A peek at some other reviews showed me that the note details the actual case this story was based on, so it is a vital part of the reading experience. I don’t know why we don’t get access to it. So annoying!
(Editing to Add: The author is such a gem of a person. When I wrote to her about this issue, she emailed me the author's note! Reading it confirms that it should have been added to the ALC as it reveals several vital details and writing choices.)
Newbie audiobook listeners might have trouble keeping up with the multiple character perspectives, so better if they stick to reading. They could also try immersion reading – eyes plus ears at once. This would work well with such a wonderful narrator.
All in all, this is easily one of my top reads for 2024. It’s a great option for the spooky season, though it might work better for historical fiction lovers than mystery lovers.
Do note that it isn't an easy read considering the theme. There are many disturbing events so do check out the content warnings before you opt for this. The ending is highly satisfying, if that helps.
I had assumed this to be my first book by this author, but as it turns out, it is the second one! As ‘Audrey Blake’, this author co-writes STEMinist historical fiction with fellow author and friend Regina Sirois. I remember reading ‘The Surgeon’s Daughter’, and while I was quite annoyed that it hadn’t been marked as a sequel, I had enjoyed the historical and medical parts of that novel. Those aspects are fabulous in this book as well. I am definitely going to keep a keen eye out for her future works.
Much, much recommended to every historical fiction lover who doesn’t mind dark content based on true crimes. If you are an audio aficionado, do opt for the audio version.
4.5 stars, more than happy to round up!
My thanks to Recorded Books for providing the ALC of “The Specimen” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
Content Warnings: (DO NOTE THAT THIS LIST CONTAINS MAJOR SPOILERS AND MIGHT NOT BE EXTENSIVE.)
Child death, heart issues, organ harvesting, body snatching, murder, physical assault, racial discrimination, bullying, prostitution, extramarital pregnancy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
1826. Edinburgh. Isobel Tait, a single mother who teaches piano to earn a living, loves one person more than anyone else in the world: her seven-year-old son Thomas. Unfortunately, Thomas has been sickly ever since he contracted scarlet fever about a year before. When an acquaintance suggests that Isobel take Thomas to the acclaimed Dr. Burnett for a reliable cure, little does the young mother know that her life is soon to turn into a nightmare.
With frequent kidnappings and grisly human organ museums and phantom voices and nefarious activities under the guise of medical research, this plot thus turns into a horrifying slow-burn historical mystery.
The story comes to us in Isobel’s first-person point of view, along with two other character perspectives in third person: Dr. Burnett and police detective Adam Kerr.
PSA: Do yourself a favour and don't read the Goodreads blurb. It doesn't reveal too much, but it does reveal a key point that botches some of the initial suspense. Just trust me and go in blind.
Bookish Yays:
❤︎ Isobel – What an amazing character! Courageous and determined, Isobel depicts the extent to which a mother can go for her child. As a fellow mother, I felt her pain throughout and was rooting for her with all my heart.
❤︎ The two kids in the story: Thomas and ten-year-old Nan. Child characters anyway win my heart more often than not, but these two are especially memorable.
❤︎ Police detective Adam Kerr, whose biracial roots, neither from England, ensure that he faces racial discrimination from within the police force. Loved the realistic way in which his character is portrayed.
❤︎ The other supporting characters. There are quite a few of them but the book never felt overloaded to me. Each one’s personality is carved so sharply that within just a few lines, we get a pulse of their personality. None of the women in the story are weak, though not all might be angelic. The characters serve as a masterclass in human behaviour and how social aspirations and/or requirements affect personal behaviour. Brilliantly done!
❤︎ Beautiful lyrical writing with such lovely imagery that the scenes played like a movie in my head. (Admittedly, this isn't the best thing to happen in a story with such a grisly plot… Oh well!)
❤︎ As Isobel teaches the piano, Isobel’s first-person narration had plenty of musical metaphors, which I relished. These depict Isobel's musical aptitude as well as her music-oriented manner of thinking even in her descriptions of people and sounds. Best of all, these are not written in a technical way, so even readers without knowhow of classical music would be able to understand them.
❤︎ Fabulous atmosphere throughout, with several scenes causing my pulse to beat faster. The macabre medical practices thrill and chill in equal measure. The historical setting is used excellently, whether in the police investigation or the local superstitions or the medical professionals’ clique-like behaviour or the dark truth behind some medical practices.
❤︎ Several brilliant scenes where characters tell scary stories to each other – perfect to amp up the spook factor of the book.
❤︎ Multiple parallel arcs, thanks to so many events and characters, but every single arc fits into the narrative neatly without its feeling forced, and the whole plot is even settled smoothly by the end.
❤︎ So many emotions generated by this story – it is simultaneously heartwarming and heartbreaking, possibly more of the latter.
❤︎ No forced romance or any romance. The focus stays where it ought to be.
❤︎ The ending. Can’t go into spoilers so I’ll just say: Loved almost all of it!
Bookish-Yays-For-Me-Might-Be-Nays-For-Others
💕 This is not a whodunnit as the “mystery” becomes clear quite early in the plot. It is more about avenging a crime than trying to figure out the guilty party. I wasn’t reading it for the mystery anyway, so this didn’t bother me. Mystery lovers might need to realign their expectations.
💕 The proceedings are on the slower side, but this didn't bother me at all as the plotline was engrossing. Not once did my attention dip! Those who don’t like slowburn stories might need to have patience.
💕 There are some mildly paranormal events, nothing spooky or nightmare-inducing. However, these are not explained, so if you are the kind to need answers for everything, you just have to go with the flow for this.
💕 The overall story comes from three characters, two in third person and one in first person. Each of these is written brilliantly with never any confusion about why the plot needed these three points of view. Moreover, each of the perspectives has a lot happening and are thus equally important in the overall storyline. Those who don’t enjoy multi-character perspectives might struggle to keep up.
Bookish Nays:
💔 Without going into major spoilers, all I can say is: the witchy content in the final quarter doesn’t fit smoothly into the overall plot. It’s not bad, but it just feels awkwardly shoved in.
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at a little more than 13 hours, is narrated by Cathleen McCarron. How have I not heard any book narrated by her before!??! She is outstanding! She has a mild Scot accent, which worried me at first as I am not too used to it. But her lilt was impeccable and not at all difficult to comprehend. The way she voices every single character distinctly was just brilliant. Emotions, conversations, inner monologues – no confusion about anything. I’d love to hear more books narrated by her.
The only issue with the audio version is that I wanted to go even faster! There were so many scenes in this fascinating story where I would have flipped the pages at full speed had I had the physical/digital version, in which case I'd have devoured the book in a day! Of course, you can increase the tempo of the audio to crazy levels if you want, but I never go above 1.75x as I want to feel like I am actually listening to a human and not a chipmunk.
The author’s note is yet again missing from the audio copy. A peek at some other reviews showed me that the note details the actual case this story was based on, so it is a vital part of the reading experience. I don’t know why we don’t get access to it. So annoying!
(Editing to Add: The author is such a gem of a person. When I wrote to her about this issue, she emailed me the author's note! Reading it confirms that it should have been added to the ALC as it reveals several vital details and writing choices.)
Newbie audiobook listeners might have trouble keeping up with the multiple character perspectives, so better if they stick to reading. They could also try immersion reading – eyes plus ears at once. This would work well with such a wonderful narrator.
All in all, this is easily one of my top reads for 2024. It’s a great option for the spooky season, though it might work better for historical fiction lovers than mystery lovers.
Do note that it isn't an easy read considering the theme. There are many disturbing events so do check out the content warnings before you opt for this. The ending is highly satisfying, if that helps.
I had assumed this to be my first book by this author, but as it turns out, it is the second one! As ‘Audrey Blake’, this author co-writes STEMinist historical fiction with fellow author and friend Regina Sirois. I remember reading ‘The Surgeon’s Daughter’, and while I was quite annoyed that it hadn’t been marked as a sequel, I had enjoyed the historical and medical parts of that novel. Those aspects are fabulous in this book as well. I am definitely going to keep a keen eye out for her future works.
Much, much recommended to every historical fiction lover who doesn’t mind dark content based on true crimes. If you are an audio aficionado, do opt for the audio version.
4.5 stars, more than happy to round up!
My thanks to Recorded Books for providing the ALC of “The Specimen” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook.
Content Warnings: (DO NOTE THAT THIS LIST CONTAINS MAJOR SPOILERS AND MIGHT NOT BE EXTENSIVE.)
Child death, heart issues, organ harvesting, body snatching, murder, physical assault, racial discrimination, bullying, prostitution, extramarital pregnancy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
October 15, 2024
📚 Happy Publication Day 📚
I will proudly say that I have finally read my first historical fiction novel and I really loved it! This is a historical fiction mystery novel that is done really well. Plus, isn’t this cover just GORGEOUS! One of the best of the year!
It’s 1826 and Isobel has a seven year old boy that has a heart condition, a heart murmur. She takes him to a doctor and the doctor informs her that he probably only has three more years left to live. Soon, he disappears without a trace.
Isobel becomes deeply depressed and the women invite her out one night. The show? A display of the doctor’s specimens, body parts collected in jars and whatnot. She begins to hear the exact beat of her son’s heart. Freaked out, she becomes determined to get closer to the doctor to find out if he killed him and stole his heart.
The writing hooked me right away! I could feel the distress and pain for Isobel. Rich descriptions of the town of Edinburgh, Scotland and the characters in the story. I loved that technology or social media was not even possible. Just a fleshed out story written really well! My favorite characters were the detective and a young girl named Nan!
The author’s note was phenomenal! Do NOT MISS IT! These things really happened back then! The characters are based on a true story that is highly fascinating yet frightening. Even her husband plays a part in a character.
Thank you so much to Jaima Fixsen, Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the opportunity!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I will proudly say that I have finally read my first historical fiction novel and I really loved it! This is a historical fiction mystery novel that is done really well. Plus, isn’t this cover just GORGEOUS! One of the best of the year!
It’s 1826 and Isobel has a seven year old boy that has a heart condition, a heart murmur. She takes him to a doctor and the doctor informs her that he probably only has three more years left to live. Soon, he disappears without a trace.
Isobel becomes deeply depressed and the women invite her out one night. The show? A display of the doctor’s specimens, body parts collected in jars and whatnot. She begins to hear the exact beat of her son’s heart. Freaked out, she becomes determined to get closer to the doctor to find out if he killed him and stole his heart.
The writing hooked me right away! I could feel the distress and pain for Isobel. Rich descriptions of the town of Edinburgh, Scotland and the characters in the story. I loved that technology or social media was not even possible. Just a fleshed out story written really well! My favorite characters were the detective and a young girl named Nan!
The author’s note was phenomenal! Do NOT MISS IT! These things really happened back then! The characters are based on a true story that is highly fascinating yet frightening. Even her husband plays a part in a character.
Thank you so much to Jaima Fixsen, Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the opportunity!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 10, 2024
This was an incredible read! Truly love that real life events brought this story to life.
Releases October 15th, go out and get it!
Thank you @NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this in advance to release day!
#netgalley #jaimafixsen #thespecimen
Releases October 15th, go out and get it!
Thank you @NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this in advance to release day!
#netgalley #jaimafixsen #thespecimen
March 26, 2025
4.5⭐️
i support women's wrongs
i support women's wrongs
October 20, 2024
Jaime Fixsen’s The Specimen is historical fiction with gothic elements which begins in Edinburgh, Scotland of 1826 with the life of Isobel Tait and her seven year old son, Thomas. Thomas has been ailing, weak and not getting better and Isobel was referred to a specialist, a surgeon/anatomist, a Doctor Burnett, for further evaluation and opinions. She meets him at his office which also contains various specimen from bodies he has apparently studied with his medical students. Here Isobel learns of a new method of listening to the heart and she actually is able to listen to Thomas’ unusual heartbeat and learn what it means for his future. He has a fault in his heart.
Resigned to having a shortened time with her boy, she is destroyed when only weeks later he disappears, apparently kidnapped. The novel becomes a mother’s pursuit of who would take her son and why. Isobel begins to have suspicions, has talked with police, but there is no real evidence of anything wrong. Meanwhile, Adam Kerr, a detective who met Isobel during the initial investigation after Thomas’s disappearance, has become aware of some other missing people in the city who might have something in common. Could there be a link?
This is a very interesting story, covering a period in medical practice and history that isn’t dealt with often: the early days of medical studies and teaching about and with the human body. The author’s note at the end ties this novel in to the historical landscape it grew out of, albeit with a very individual story. Recommended.
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for an eARC of this book.
Resigned to having a shortened time with her boy, she is destroyed when only weeks later he disappears, apparently kidnapped. The novel becomes a mother’s pursuit of who would take her son and why. Isobel begins to have suspicions, has talked with police, but there is no real evidence of anything wrong. Meanwhile, Adam Kerr, a detective who met Isobel during the initial investigation after Thomas’s disappearance, has become aware of some other missing people in the city who might have something in common. Could there be a link?
This is a very interesting story, covering a period in medical practice and history that isn’t dealt with often: the early days of medical studies and teaching about and with the human body. The author’s note at the end ties this novel in to the historical landscape it grew out of, albeit with a very individual story. Recommended.
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for an eARC of this book.
July 10, 2024
Amongst Dr. Burnett's collection of oddities and medical specimens sits a heart in a jar. To anyone else, this juvenile heart with its damaged mitral valve would simply be another exhibit to gawk at. But for Isabel Tait, a woman whose son has been missing for months now... a son who just happened to have that same rare defect... the heart beats out a different story.
The Specimen by Jaima Fixsen is one of my most anticipated reads of 2024. After falling in love with her previous work The Girl in His Shadow and The Woman with No Name (co-written under the name Audrey Blake), I was beyond excited to see what Jaima had up her sleeve next. And this new novel absolutely lived up to my expectations!
The book combines all my favorite genres: historical fiction, mystery, and true crime. Add in a sprinkle of gothic fiction and you've got this eerie and chilling tale set amidst the historical backdrop of Edinburgh in the 1820s.
While it took me a few chapters to get into the book, this true-crime-inspired novel quickly captivated me and I struggled to put it down at the end of the day. The writing is rich and mesmerizing, and the story is extremely well-set -- almost as if you're walking the gritty Edinburgh streets along with Isobel. It's a time period that I really enjoy (but find is often overlooked in newer historical fiction) and I loved getting transported there. The story can be a slow burn at times but it is absolutely worth investing in this intricate world-building and strong character development.
Isobel's character is wrapped up in a mother's love and fierce determination to find justice for her son. It's an equally heartbreaking and inspiring read to see her take things into her own hands and push for truth when the world seems to be battling against her. Fixsen brought this grieving-mother protagonist to life and in the process, gave us a haunting and unique historical mystery.
I also appreciated that Fixsen wasn't afraid to give us a darker mystery with more gothic vibes. While the story isn't overly graphic in its descriptions, it's definitely not a cozy mystery -- and that's not always as easy to come by with the historical mystery genre. It's clear that Jaima did an extensive amount of research into getting the setting and historical plot details accurate and that made for an immersive and memorable read.
For fans of gothic-feeling, historical mysteries, I highly recommend adding this novel to your shelves! Huge thanks to the author for my advance copy.
The Specimen by Jaima Fixsen is one of my most anticipated reads of 2024. After falling in love with her previous work The Girl in His Shadow and The Woman with No Name (co-written under the name Audrey Blake), I was beyond excited to see what Jaima had up her sleeve next. And this new novel absolutely lived up to my expectations!
The book combines all my favorite genres: historical fiction, mystery, and true crime. Add in a sprinkle of gothic fiction and you've got this eerie and chilling tale set amidst the historical backdrop of Edinburgh in the 1820s.
While it took me a few chapters to get into the book, this true-crime-inspired novel quickly captivated me and I struggled to put it down at the end of the day. The writing is rich and mesmerizing, and the story is extremely well-set -- almost as if you're walking the gritty Edinburgh streets along with Isobel. It's a time period that I really enjoy (but find is often overlooked in newer historical fiction) and I loved getting transported there. The story can be a slow burn at times but it is absolutely worth investing in this intricate world-building and strong character development.
Isobel's character is wrapped up in a mother's love and fierce determination to find justice for her son. It's an equally heartbreaking and inspiring read to see her take things into her own hands and push for truth when the world seems to be battling against her. Fixsen brought this grieving-mother protagonist to life and in the process, gave us a haunting and unique historical mystery.
I also appreciated that Fixsen wasn't afraid to give us a darker mystery with more gothic vibes. While the story isn't overly graphic in its descriptions, it's definitely not a cozy mystery -- and that's not always as easy to come by with the historical mystery genre. It's clear that Jaima did an extensive amount of research into getting the setting and historical plot details accurate and that made for an immersive and memorable read.
For fans of gothic-feeling, historical mysteries, I highly recommend adding this novel to your shelves! Huge thanks to the author for my advance copy.
September 5, 2024
✨ Review ✨
The Specimen
Jaima Fixsen
Historical fiction, mystery
Release date: October 15, 2024
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Walk carefully, lest you become a part of Dr. Burnett's collection…
Based on true crimes, The Specimen is a mesmerizing story about one woman's search for truth and vengeance in the darkest of places—where the deadliest secrets lie hidden in plain sight, on a freshly dusted shelf.
This story was so beautifully written. I knew when I read the blurb about this story back in April that I HAD to get my hands on it.
We follow Isobel Tait through trying to find her missing son after a child’s heart is displayed in a Drs Oddities collection, matching the condition of her son.
Is that her son’s heart? Was he killed for it?
Who can she trust? Or will she be deemed as a mad woman in Edinburg?
Thank you @netgalley, @poisonedpenpress, & @jaimiafixsen for this ARC
I loved this read. It was suspenseful, gothic, & loosely based on true events.
One of my favorites from this year & I highly recommend the read! 🤍
#review #arc #reviewer #bookish
The Specimen
Jaima Fixsen
Historical fiction, mystery
Release date: October 15, 2024
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Walk carefully, lest you become a part of Dr. Burnett's collection…
Based on true crimes, The Specimen is a mesmerizing story about one woman's search for truth and vengeance in the darkest of places—where the deadliest secrets lie hidden in plain sight, on a freshly dusted shelf.
This story was so beautifully written. I knew when I read the blurb about this story back in April that I HAD to get my hands on it.
We follow Isobel Tait through trying to find her missing son after a child’s heart is displayed in a Drs Oddities collection, matching the condition of her son.
Is that her son’s heart? Was he killed for it?
Who can she trust? Or will she be deemed as a mad woman in Edinburg?
Thank you @netgalley, @poisonedpenpress, & @jaimiafixsen for this ARC
I loved this read. It was suspenseful, gothic, & loosely based on true events.
One of my favorites from this year & I highly recommend the read! 🤍
#review #arc #reviewer #bookish
January 10, 2025
4.25⭐️
September 4, 2024
How far would you go for justice? In this gripping tale of gothic suspense, Isobel Tait is a mother whose chronically ill son mysteriously vanishes, leaving her bereft. One year later, while on a tour of the medical specimen collection of Dr. Conall Burnett, she is shocked to see a heart with the exact same mitral valve defect as young Thomas. When she hears his heartbeat calling out to her from inside its glass jar prison, nothing can stop her from exposing the truth.
If more historical fiction were based on true crime, I would absolutely be a more avid reader of the genre. The Specimen, set in 19th century Scotland, is based on the real life tale of the Edinburgh resurrection men, among whose ranks, most notoriously, were Burke and Hare.
Fixsen also incorporates elements of folkloric superstition, gothic horror reminiscent of Edgar Allan Poe, and Mètis history to craft a truly one of a kind page turner. Isobel, the clever, brave mother whose burning desire for vengeance ripples through every page, is formidable and easily lovable all at once. Isobel’s unlikely allies, mixed-Indigenous detective Adam Kerr and wily street girl Nan, won my heart as well.
I truly couldn’t put this down and read it cover to cover in only three days. Fixsen absolutely has a new fan in me, especially after her brilliant author’s note sharing more about her inspiration for writing The Specimen.
Absolutely phenomenal. Don’t sleep on this one!
I received a NetGalley e-ARC as compensation for this honest review. Thank you so much to Poisoned Pen Press and Jaima Fixsen!
If more historical fiction were based on true crime, I would absolutely be a more avid reader of the genre. The Specimen, set in 19th century Scotland, is based on the real life tale of the Edinburgh resurrection men, among whose ranks, most notoriously, were Burke and Hare.
Fixsen also incorporates elements of folkloric superstition, gothic horror reminiscent of Edgar Allan Poe, and Mètis history to craft a truly one of a kind page turner. Isobel, the clever, brave mother whose burning desire for vengeance ripples through every page, is formidable and easily lovable all at once. Isobel’s unlikely allies, mixed-Indigenous detective Adam Kerr and wily street girl Nan, won my heart as well.
I truly couldn’t put this down and read it cover to cover in only three days. Fixsen absolutely has a new fan in me, especially after her brilliant author’s note sharing more about her inspiration for writing The Specimen.
Absolutely phenomenal. Don’t sleep on this one!
I received a NetGalley e-ARC as compensation for this honest review. Thank you so much to Poisoned Pen Press and Jaima Fixsen!
August 5, 2024
I would like to sincerely thank whoever left this ARC on a bench in Cental Park. The book happily made its way across the Atlantic Ocean.
Now this book:
It was tense.
It was gothic.
It was vivid.
In short, it was unputdownable.
The story and characters were wonderfully conceived and developed. You can't help but root for the main characters, and cheer for their courage, despite their occasional morally grey actions. At times, the writing style was disturbingly detailed, adding beautifully to both the 1800s setting and the feeling of injustice behind the imagery. Despite this, the core values of love and family are dissolved within the very ink with which the book was printed.
I would recommend The Specimen to anyone who likes a good gothic novel, and I'm excited to have discovered a new author I like reading from.
Now this book:
It was tense.
It was gothic.
It was vivid.
In short, it was unputdownable.
The story and characters were wonderfully conceived and developed. You can't help but root for the main characters, and cheer for their courage, despite their occasional morally grey actions. At times, the writing style was disturbingly detailed, adding beautifully to both the 1800s setting and the feeling of injustice behind the imagery. Despite this, the core values of love and family are dissolved within the very ink with which the book was printed.
I would recommend The Specimen to anyone who likes a good gothic novel, and I'm excited to have discovered a new author I like reading from.
January 25, 2025
4.5
So well written, an easy way to pass the time. I loved the author’s note at the end explaining how she got the idea for the book based on real facts. Incredibly interesting.
So well written, an easy way to pass the time. I loved the author’s note at the end explaining how she got the idea for the book based on real facts. Incredibly interesting.
November 27, 2025
I’ve been feeling like crap lately because of the weather, but this spectacular read made me feel better knowing that there’s such great historical horror out there. A grieving mother goes on a desperate and unnerving hunt to find out what exactly happened to her son, one who had a rare heart condition. After finding a heart on display in a doctor’s study, she becomes convinced that herself and others have fallen mercy to the body robber scheme of the 1800s. I felt such immense grief for all of the victims in this book, the writing makes you feel like you personally know everyone.
October 16, 2024
It’s 1826 in Edinburgh, Scotland when Isobel’s seven-year-old son, Thomas, goes missing. She’s wild with grief and hounds the police daily, but there’s not sign of him anywhere. Months later, Isobel, at the urging of friends, is attending a museum of morbid curiosities when she starts to hear the beating of Thomas’ heart!
The Specimen was suspenseful and had me on the edge of my seat as Isobel searches for the truth and stumbles on a way to do it that puts her in danger! I was rooting for her as she uncovered the details and looked for a way to serve up justice! There’s a splash of spine-tingling supernatural here, too!
The writing was rich and vivid without sacrificing pace! Don’t miss reading the author’s note at the end which gives a bit of the history of the true story The Specimen was based on and how she came up with the story!
I alternately read and listened to The Specimen. The audio was fantastic! Cathleen McCarron’s Scottish accent was wonderful to listen to and there were pronunciations I wouldn’t have got right otherwise. She seamlessly performed both male and female voices. Loved!
I voluntarily read and listened to a copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
The Specimen was suspenseful and had me on the edge of my seat as Isobel searches for the truth and stumbles on a way to do it that puts her in danger! I was rooting for her as she uncovered the details and looked for a way to serve up justice! There’s a splash of spine-tingling supernatural here, too!
The writing was rich and vivid without sacrificing pace! Don’t miss reading the author’s note at the end which gives a bit of the history of the true story The Specimen was based on and how she came up with the story!
I alternately read and listened to The Specimen. The audio was fantastic! Cathleen McCarron’s Scottish accent was wonderful to listen to and there were pronunciations I wouldn’t have got right otherwise. She seamlessly performed both male and female voices. Loved!
I voluntarily read and listened to a copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 26, 2024
A perfect Gothic style spooky season read set in early 19th century Edinburgh that sees a mother's young son stolen for his dysfunctional heart by a doctor who likes to collect the body parts of unusual 'specimens' - even if it means resorting to murder to do so.
A tad long-winded at times, this was still an enjoyable read that sees a mother teaming up with a detective to bring justice for her son and put a stop to the doctor's illegal smuggling/murder ring. I especially loved the part where she can hear the voice of her dead son when she gets near his heart and the way she infiltrates the doctor's house.
This was my first book by Canadian author, Jaima Fixsen and I would definitely recommend it! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy (narrated excellently by Cathleen McCarron) in exchange for my honest review.
A tad long-winded at times, this was still an enjoyable read that sees a mother teaming up with a detective to bring justice for her son and put a stop to the doctor's illegal smuggling/murder ring. I especially loved the part where she can hear the voice of her dead son when she gets near his heart and the way she infiltrates the doctor's house.
This was my first book by Canadian author, Jaima Fixsen and I would definitely recommend it! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy (narrated excellently by Cathleen McCarron) in exchange for my honest review.
October 24, 2024
“how did Burnett not understand how easily it was to recognise the pieces of people you loved? they announced themselves in a thousand different ways, in a living voice, in a handwritten word, in the blend of browns in a lock of hair of the precise shape of an ear. this blindness would be his undoing.”
October 22, 2024
3.5/5 stars
April 7, 2025
Sooooo good!! Historical fiction based on a true story, with a gothic undertone. Spooky, gruesome, heartbreaking, frustrating and ultimately hopeful with bittersweet triumph. The author’s note at the end was the cherry on top.
dnf
February 24, 2025Petty DNF. I donnnnnnt care about characters who have children I don’t care about reading them interacting with their children I truly do not want to read even a few chapters of babysitting it’s not fun.
May 3, 2025
So transporting! Full review soon!
Thank you to the publisher for my copy!
Thank you to the publisher for my copy!
November 6, 2024
Thank you to one of my favorites @kelseylitsliftsanddips for sending me her copy of this! It sounded so good and I was RIGHT! Another HF?! Say what?! Who even am I lol
The vibes are as gothic as the cover let me tell you. Taking place in 1826, based on true events, we get a slow burn that really pays off in the end. The writing hooked me right away and I was entranced in the mystery. Medicine from the past is always a …interesting thing to read about. Most of it was barbaric and horrifying. You can feel Isobel’s desperation and her fight for her son, the truth and justice. Do not miss the author’s note at the end. It really added to the overall enjoyment! Loved it!
4.5 rounded up***
The vibes are as gothic as the cover let me tell you. Taking place in 1826, based on true events, we get a slow burn that really pays off in the end. The writing hooked me right away and I was entranced in the mystery. Medicine from the past is always a …interesting thing to read about. Most of it was barbaric and horrifying. You can feel Isobel’s desperation and her fight for her son, the truth and justice. Do not miss the author’s note at the end. It really added to the overall enjoyment! Loved it!
4.5 rounded up***
November 15, 2024
Audiobook (13 hours) narrated by Cathleen McCarron
From the opening paragraph it's clear that Cathleen McCarron is an experienced narrator. Upon a little investigation, she has earned several Earphones and Audie Awards as well as received nominations for British Book Awards for Best Audiobook and a runner up for Audible Best of the year for her work in Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, a narration that she did win an Earphones award for.
The audio itself is good, without issues.
The Specimen is a great historical fiction based in 1826.
While the book is listed as a horror, it's more of a mystery thriller, a story in the ballpark of Jack the Ripper for the time, setting, and medical aspects, along with the true crimes association. There is a bit of a paranormal type flair, which would be more unusual if it wasn't included for a story based in 1826.
If you do go with the audiobook, please know that it does not include the notations relating to the real life story that this one is based on. They could have added it to the end of the book but instead, left it out. It is included in the print versions, from what I'm told.
From the opening paragraph it's clear that Cathleen McCarron is an experienced narrator. Upon a little investigation, she has earned several Earphones and Audie Awards as well as received nominations for British Book Awards for Best Audiobook and a runner up for Audible Best of the year for her work in Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, a narration that she did win an Earphones award for.
The audio itself is good, without issues.
The Specimen is a great historical fiction based in 1826.
While the book is listed as a horror, it's more of a mystery thriller, a story in the ballpark of Jack the Ripper for the time, setting, and medical aspects, along with the true crimes association. There is a bit of a paranormal type flair, which would be more unusual if it wasn't included for a story based in 1826.
If you do go with the audiobook, please know that it does not include the notations relating to the real life story that this one is based on. They could have added it to the end of the book but instead, left it out. It is included in the print versions, from what I'm told.
December 18, 2024
Soooooo….i really didn’t like this book. The writing was really well done. The concept was different but it just fell so flat for me. I was bored out of my mind. None of the twists or reveals got me at all. I could’ve cared less about the main characters and their journey. I was definitely not the audience for this one.
October 8, 2024
A story of a woman who has a child with a rare heart disease goes missing. Ironically, after a year of the child missing a new exhibit has arrived at a local doctor's collection of human organs with the same defect as her child. After the doctor publicly shames the woman for her accusations she then goes undercover as a house maid. It turns out that the dirty rink of Doctors were hunting and harvesting humans. However, it turns into a tale of Money vs. truth.
This book was OK, I was really into. However, it got so boring. There was so much that could have been left out. This book would have been 5 stars if the author would have stuck to the point.
Such a great gothic style tale. Great for Halloween
This book was OK, I was really into. However, it got so boring. There was so much that could have been left out. This book would have been 5 stars if the author would have stuck to the point.
Such a great gothic style tale. Great for Halloween
November 12, 2024
I would recommend this to fans of Stranger Things, hear me out:
- there's a mom looking for her missing son, and going to insane lengths to find him (perhaps even communicating beyond our plane of existence)
- there's a single policeman who believes her
- the policeman is also kinda secretly adopting a daughter that's somehow tangentially involved in that whole plot that's going on
-----------------------------------
I really freaking liked this. This was a perfect spooky season read. 4.5/5
In the tradition of Burke & Hare, this story follows unscrupulous doctors blinded by their ambitions and need for constant bodies to further their careers and one mother who demands justice for her son. And if the police can't help her then she'll take matters into her own hands.
Normally I prefer my fiction to be speculative in nature, but I didn't need that at all here. (Granted, there's a slight magical realism/maybe speculative elements, but it's very, very minor so as to basically be inconsequential.) This captivated me from the start. The pacing and tension and raw emotion and vengeance were excellently portrayed.
I also quite liked the different POVs that we got that helped to round out the characters, round out the knowledge the reader is privy to, and truly cement what a despicable villain there was.
Overall I highly recommend this, especially around Halloween (which also gets a passing mention in the book!)
Audiobook Notes:
Consider me an instant fan of Cathleen McCarron. From the opening paragraph I already rushed to tell my friends how immediately in love I was with the narrator's accent. She has a lovely voice to listen to and did a fantastic job portraying the text. 10/10
Not for Jeeps:
- there's a mom looking for her missing son, and going to insane lengths to find him (perhaps even communicating beyond our plane of existence)
- there's a single policeman who believes her
- the policeman is also kinda secretly adopting a daughter that's somehow tangentially involved in that whole plot that's going on
-----------------------------------
I really freaking liked this. This was a perfect spooky season read. 4.5/5
In the tradition of Burke & Hare, this story follows unscrupulous doctors blinded by their ambitions and need for constant bodies to further their careers and one mother who demands justice for her son. And if the police can't help her then she'll take matters into her own hands.
Normally I prefer my fiction to be speculative in nature, but I didn't need that at all here. (Granted, there's a slight magical realism/maybe speculative elements, but it's very, very minor so as to basically be inconsequential.) This captivated me from the start. The pacing and tension and raw emotion and vengeance were excellently portrayed.
I also quite liked the different POVs that we got that helped to round out the characters, round out the knowledge the reader is privy to, and truly cement what a despicable villain there was.
Overall I highly recommend this, especially around Halloween (which also gets a passing mention in the book!)
Audiobook Notes:
Consider me an instant fan of Cathleen McCarron. From the opening paragraph I already rushed to tell my friends how immediately in love I was with the narrator's accent. She has a lovely voice to listen to and did a fantastic job portraying the text. 10/10
Not for Jeeps:
October 24, 2024
In 1826 Edinburgh, Isobel Tait lives with her seven-year-old, very ill son Thomas, and supports herself teaching piano to young gentlewomen in Edinburgh.
After a consultation with Dr. Burnett, on the advice of her doctor, she’s told that Thomas' heart, specifically the mitral valve, is too damaged by the scarlet fever he recovered from for Burnett to heal the boy. Soon after the appointment, Thomas goes missing, and despite neighbours’ help, Isobel can find him nowhere. She goes to the police, but Detective Fraser judges her to be not worthy of respect as she’s a single mother, and dismisses her concerns. His partner, Adam Kerr, takes her more seriously, but Thomas is never found.
Over a year later, and still bereft, Isobel is convinced by friends to accompany them to view Dr. Burnett’s medical specimens collection, and it’s there that she sees a preserved small heart with a damaged mitral valve. Isobel hears the familiar sound of Thomas’ labouring heart then, and she loses it. She attempts to rouse interest in the police and the newspapers, but no one takes her claims seriously, as what Isobel is implying is too horrible.
She tells Adam, and even he has a hard time believing that a doctor, especially one so prominent, would harm someone to secure a specimen for his collection, even as Adam is learning about people in the city with unusual physical conditions are disappearing.
Dr. Burnett discredits Isobel, and no other doctor will support her claims, as they are all too dependent on a supply of dead bodies to expand their knowledge. It never pays to delve too deeply into the provenance of their supply, so they close ranks against the supposedly “hysterical woman”, with Isobel losing clients, and feeling increasingly alone. This prompts her to hatch a dangerous and daring plan to find out more about Burnett and take the heart back herself.
Meanwhile, Adam Kerr begins his own quiet investigation into missing people. As a Métis, he has no real support amongst the bigoted officers, and is unlikely to be believed as the missing are generally poor or sex workers.
Author Jaima Fixsen has based this story on the real life Resurrection Men, who secretly exhumed bodies to sell them to doctors. Fixsen has skillfully combined actual history with mystery and a nice sprinkling of the slightly fantastic to create a fascinating and totally engaging story.
I loved the atmosphere of Fixsen's 1820s Edinburgh; it's damp, chilly, with prejudice and small-mindedness combining with the almost scandalous interest evinced by the public for various gentlemen's collections. There is also the lack of interest by police to take missing persons cases seriously, particularly when those missing occupy the lower rungs of society, much as happens today.
In Isobel, Fixsen has created a woman whose love for her son and for justice are powerful motivators. She's unwilling to be ignored or dismissed, and once set on her course, is incredibly determined. Though Isobel sometimes acts without thinking, but she's always driven by her love for Thomas.
Adam Kerr is equally interesting. It's easy to assume that no one from the New World would end up in Europe, but the historical information Fixsen provides in her afterward notes otherwise. He's a good ally for Isobel, as he's got an outsider's perspective on the police, and on Edinburgh Society, allowing him to see problems that the majority don't. He's also a capable detective, persisting in his investigation to the point that he and Isobel's efforts reveal a horrendous situation.
I could not put this down once I started; the concept and the characters kept me hooked right to the end. This book's main character was captivating, and Isobel's and Adam's eventual partnership was a wonderful aspect of the novel.
I went back and forth from the prose to the audiobook, and voice actor Cathleen McCarron's portrayal of Isobel was sublime, while her portrayal of Dr. Burnett was genuinely scary, at times. McCarron's Adam is a calm, empathetic and steady presence throughout, and a nice contrast to Isobel's passionate refusal to accept the flawed authority of Adam's fellow detective, and the abrasiveness of the villain of the piece.
I highly recommend both the novel and the audiobook; I loved this story and its wonderful heroine.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Poisoned Pen Press and to RBMedia for the ARCs in exchange for my review.
After a consultation with Dr. Burnett, on the advice of her doctor, she’s told that Thomas' heart, specifically the mitral valve, is too damaged by the scarlet fever he recovered from for Burnett to heal the boy. Soon after the appointment, Thomas goes missing, and despite neighbours’ help, Isobel can find him nowhere. She goes to the police, but Detective Fraser judges her to be not worthy of respect as she’s a single mother, and dismisses her concerns. His partner, Adam Kerr, takes her more seriously, but Thomas is never found.
Over a year later, and still bereft, Isobel is convinced by friends to accompany them to view Dr. Burnett’s medical specimens collection, and it’s there that she sees a preserved small heart with a damaged mitral valve. Isobel hears the familiar sound of Thomas’ labouring heart then, and she loses it. She attempts to rouse interest in the police and the newspapers, but no one takes her claims seriously, as what Isobel is implying is too horrible.
She tells Adam, and even he has a hard time believing that a doctor, especially one so prominent, would harm someone to secure a specimen for his collection, even as Adam is learning about people in the city with unusual physical conditions are disappearing.
Dr. Burnett discredits Isobel, and no other doctor will support her claims, as they are all too dependent on a supply of dead bodies to expand their knowledge. It never pays to delve too deeply into the provenance of their supply, so they close ranks against the supposedly “hysterical woman”, with Isobel losing clients, and feeling increasingly alone. This prompts her to hatch a dangerous and daring plan to find out more about Burnett and take the heart back herself.
Meanwhile, Adam Kerr begins his own quiet investigation into missing people. As a Métis, he has no real support amongst the bigoted officers, and is unlikely to be believed as the missing are generally poor or sex workers.
Author Jaima Fixsen has based this story on the real life Resurrection Men, who secretly exhumed bodies to sell them to doctors. Fixsen has skillfully combined actual history with mystery and a nice sprinkling of the slightly fantastic to create a fascinating and totally engaging story.
I loved the atmosphere of Fixsen's 1820s Edinburgh; it's damp, chilly, with prejudice and small-mindedness combining with the almost scandalous interest evinced by the public for various gentlemen's collections. There is also the lack of interest by police to take missing persons cases seriously, particularly when those missing occupy the lower rungs of society, much as happens today.
In Isobel, Fixsen has created a woman whose love for her son and for justice are powerful motivators. She's unwilling to be ignored or dismissed, and once set on her course, is incredibly determined. Though Isobel sometimes acts without thinking, but she's always driven by her love for Thomas.
Adam Kerr is equally interesting. It's easy to assume that no one from the New World would end up in Europe, but the historical information Fixsen provides in her afterward notes otherwise. He's a good ally for Isobel, as he's got an outsider's perspective on the police, and on Edinburgh Society, allowing him to see problems that the majority don't. He's also a capable detective, persisting in his investigation to the point that he and Isobel's efforts reveal a horrendous situation.
I could not put this down once I started; the concept and the characters kept me hooked right to the end. This book's main character was captivating, and Isobel's and Adam's eventual partnership was a wonderful aspect of the novel.
I went back and forth from the prose to the audiobook, and voice actor Cathleen McCarron's portrayal of Isobel was sublime, while her portrayal of Dr. Burnett was genuinely scary, at times. McCarron's Adam is a calm, empathetic and steady presence throughout, and a nice contrast to Isobel's passionate refusal to accept the flawed authority of Adam's fellow detective, and the abrasiveness of the villain of the piece.
I highly recommend both the novel and the audiobook; I loved this story and its wonderful heroine.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Poisoned Pen Press and to RBMedia for the ARCs in exchange for my review.
July 3, 2024
I won this ARC copy on good reads.
This book was so well and beautifully written and to create this story out of true events made it all the more interesting and compelling. I really enjoyed this story very much and Isobel was such a inspiration and such a strong and devoted mother and character and her fight to find justice, for her son and all who fell under Dr. Burnett hands. She won’t give up as she continues to fight to get justice for those who couldn’t get it themselves and won’t let them be forgotten. I was sucked into this story from the beginning from just the way it was written alone that made me get drawn in. It was beautiful, tragic and captivating and I’m so thankful I could get the chance to read such a wonderful story early before release. As soon as I received it I couldn’t put it down. Thank you so much!
This book was so well and beautifully written and to create this story out of true events made it all the more interesting and compelling. I really enjoyed this story very much and Isobel was such a inspiration and such a strong and devoted mother and character and her fight to find justice, for her son and all who fell under Dr. Burnett hands. She won’t give up as she continues to fight to get justice for those who couldn’t get it themselves and won’t let them be forgotten. I was sucked into this story from the beginning from just the way it was written alone that made me get drawn in. It was beautiful, tragic and captivating and I’m so thankful I could get the chance to read such a wonderful story early before release. As soon as I received it I couldn’t put it down. Thank you so much!
December 8, 2024
The Specimen is a masterfully crafted tale that sweeps readers into a gothic, atmospheric world brimming with suspense and heartbreak. This thrilling story unravels the dark intricacies of love, loss, and the boundless power of a mother’s devotion. The vivid Edinburgh setting and chilling twists kept me spellbound, while the protagonist’s relentless pursuit of justice struck a deep emotional chord. Haunting and deeply moving, this novel beautifully explores how far a mother will go for her child. And for justice! An unforgettable read for fans of dark, suspenseful, and emotionally rich stories
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
December 13, 2024
A beautiful example of a slow-paced but thrilling Gothic novel and I don't like slow OR gothic! As a mother, I often think about the lengths I would go to for my kids (because anxiety) and this is a perfect portrayal of a mother's love set in a gruesome and spooky setting filled with interesting characters and historical tidbits. Such a great read and a beautiful cover!
November 1, 2024
I looooved the constant suspense in this book. At some point, we reach a point where we are no longer wondering who did it, but why and how to gather the evidence to prove it. Things are constantly happening, people are constantly dying, and you will be constantly on the edge of your seat as you wait for the next pin to drop. I highly recommend this book for your next gothic thriller book.
October 8, 2024
*Thank you to Netgalley and RBMedia for the advanced audiobook copy!*
Jaima Fixsen’s "The Specimen" is an atmospheric dive into historical Edinburgh, leaning heavily into historical fiction with a sprinkle of magical realism. Set against the backdrop of 1826 Edinburgh, the book draws inspiration from the infamous Burke and Hare murders, creating a dark, suspenseful narrative about a mother’s desperation and determination.
The plot of "The Specimen" starts with a gradual buildup, which, at times, may feel slow-paced for some readers. However, the third act is where the book truly shines, tying all the plotlines together in a gripping and satisfying way. Isobel’s journey is emotionally charged, and Fixsen does an excellent job of balancing the historical with the macabre, weaving in enough magical realism to keep it intriguing but not overwhelming. It’s important to note that understanding a bit about the time period adds to the richness of the story—there’s a lot of medical and historical terminology that feels authentic but can be dense if unfamiliar.
Specifically for the audio version, narrator of this audiobook delivered a strong performance, perfectly capturing the eerie tone of the novel. Their ability to differentiate between characters was particularly impressive, giving each a distinct voice that added depth to the experience. Isobel’s voice, laced with determination and pain, felt genuine, while Dr. Burnett’s composed, eerie presence came through chillingly. The pacing of the narration did feel a bit slow at times, but it ultimately served the story, especially in building tension. The flow between chapters was seamless, and despite the slower pacing, it never felt confusing or disjointed. The narrator’s style really elevated the text, helping me stay immersed in the world.
TLDR:
I highly recommend "The Specimen" in audiobook format, particularly for fans of historical fiction with dark undertones. The narrator’s performance adds another layer of atmosphere to the already tense and moody narrative. If you enjoy a slow-burn mystery with a strong payoff, this is a great pick. However, if you’re someone who prefers a faster pace throughout, you may want to opt for the print version, where you can more easily control the pacing.
Jaima Fixsen’s "The Specimen" is an atmospheric dive into historical Edinburgh, leaning heavily into historical fiction with a sprinkle of magical realism. Set against the backdrop of 1826 Edinburgh, the book draws inspiration from the infamous Burke and Hare murders, creating a dark, suspenseful narrative about a mother’s desperation and determination.
The plot of "The Specimen" starts with a gradual buildup, which, at times, may feel slow-paced for some readers. However, the third act is where the book truly shines, tying all the plotlines together in a gripping and satisfying way. Isobel’s journey is emotionally charged, and Fixsen does an excellent job of balancing the historical with the macabre, weaving in enough magical realism to keep it intriguing but not overwhelming. It’s important to note that understanding a bit about the time period adds to the richness of the story—there’s a lot of medical and historical terminology that feels authentic but can be dense if unfamiliar.
Specifically for the audio version, narrator of this audiobook delivered a strong performance, perfectly capturing the eerie tone of the novel. Their ability to differentiate between characters was particularly impressive, giving each a distinct voice that added depth to the experience. Isobel’s voice, laced with determination and pain, felt genuine, while Dr. Burnett’s composed, eerie presence came through chillingly. The pacing of the narration did feel a bit slow at times, but it ultimately served the story, especially in building tension. The flow between chapters was seamless, and despite the slower pacing, it never felt confusing or disjointed. The narrator’s style really elevated the text, helping me stay immersed in the world.
TLDR:
I highly recommend "The Specimen" in audiobook format, particularly for fans of historical fiction with dark undertones. The narrator’s performance adds another layer of atmosphere to the already tense and moody narrative. If you enjoy a slow-burn mystery with a strong payoff, this is a great pick. However, if you’re someone who prefers a faster pace throughout, you may want to opt for the print version, where you can more easily control the pacing.
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