The Path Beneath Her Feet: A Novel

by Janis Robinson Daly

"Meticulously researched and beautifully written. The story of a life well lived." –KATHLEEN GRISSOM, NY Times Bestselling author of The Kitchen House

Steeped in rich historical detail, Dr. Eliza Edwards, the ingénue student in The Unlocked Path, becomes the mature mentor, steadfast in her calling to effect social change by addressing women’s health issues and guiding others to realize their dreams. In 1936, as the Depression ravages careers, Eliza re-defines her abilities, traveling to Georgia and Tennessee as she reclaims her purpose and rediscovers her ambitions. Returning to Boston, she endures heartbreak with the eruption of World War II, bringing chaos to the world and sending her sons into battle. Will her unyielding pursuit to limit suffering and save lives sustain her amid the tumultuous landscapes of 1930s and 1940s America?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Medical

359 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 5, 2024

About the author

Splitting her time between Cape Cod, NH, NJ, and snowbird destinations, a tablet becomes Janis Robinson Daly’s library and desk, packed for reading and writing, wherever she might land. Inspired by the discovery that an ancestor founded the Woman’s Medical College of PA, Daly’s first novel, The Unlocked Path, celebrates pioneering women doctors at the turn of the 20th century. Its sequel, The Path Beneath Her Feet, honors the work of the American Women’s Hospitals in rural America during the 1930s. Her third book with Black Rose Writing, Under Two Flags, is a retelling of a memoir of a young Boston woman who travels to Berlin in 1916 to study opera. Daly's grandfather, Eliot H. Robinson, Sr. ghost-wrote the original memoir in 1918.

Daly graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from Wheaton College, at the time, a women’s college. At Wheaton, she developed a heightened awareness of female-centric issues. Her annual literary citizenship program, #31titleswomeninhistory, has gained recognition as an innovative way to celebrate Women's History Month in March.

A presentation of how her genealogy research inspired her to begin writing has made Daly a sought-after speaker for book clubs, women’s groups, libraries, and writers’ groups. Her monthly newsletter includes updates on her writing, book reviews and recommendations, tips for book clubs, upcoming events, and a book giveaway. Learn more at her website, www.janisrdaly.com

Reviews

[Taury · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Path Beneath Her Feet by Janis Robinson Daly is the sequel to The Unlocked Path, which I loved. This historical fiction novel is based on the author’s own family, specifically her great-great-grandfather, who helped establish the Women’s Medical College in Philadelphia. True to Daly’s style, the book centers on themes of female empowerment, resilience, and self-discovery.

Set in the 1930s, the novel follows Dr. Eliza Edwards, a real historical figure, as she defies the societal norms and expectations placed on women of that era. Daly emphasizes the importance of these women's stories, saying, “their stories needed to be heard.” I love reading about real women who break away from society's constraints, and in this case, women who used education to carve out their independence in a male-dominated world.

Character-driven and rich with strong female protagonists, the story highlights how perseverance and inner strength allowed women like Dr. Edwards to challenge the status quo in the medical field. These trailblazers played a crucial role in shaping the fight for women's rights as we know them today.

Thank you, Janis Robinson Daly, for providing me with an audio copy of your newest novel for my honest review. As always, this is a 5-star read! One of the best narrators I have ever listened to! I highly recommend it to anyone interested in historical fiction that highlights the women who paved the way for the future we know today.

[Simon · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Janis Robinson Daly started her family researching, she solely intended it to stay within the family. Ultimately, she realized she had enough for at least one novel, and so in 2022, “The Unlocked Path” was created.

In The Unlocked Path, Janis Daly gave us the character of Eliza Edwards, who tread her own path in enrolling in the Woman’s College of Pennsylvania when at the time only less than 5% of doctors were female.

Eliza Edwards is back in The Path Beneath Her Feet, however the challenges still face Eliza, although not in the same ways. The Path Beneath Her Feet presents challenges in the 20th century such as the Great Depression, polio epidemic, racism but this novel also brings to the forefront a formidable woman who has the courage and optimism to forge ahead.

I close with this: “She had chosen a different path. With each step she took, her path widened into a journey down a road of uncertainty. Yet, it had become her path beneath her feet, defined by the choices she had encountered at each waypoint along the way”.

Coming September 5, 2024!

[Denise S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a sequel to The Unlocked Path! Another great title and enticing cover is just the beginning of the continuation of Dr Eliza Edward’s story from 1936 to 1947. Eliza is in her 50s and 60s during this time. Written with the same great detail to history of this time period, especially with World War II going on. This book is concentrated in Boston, Georgia and Appalachia Tennessee, with different reasons for being in each locale. From the polio ward in Georgia to creating a Maternity Shelter in Tennessee to caring for a relative back home in Boston, each part of the story is interesting. As in her first book, a cast of characters are with Eliza, from relatives to friends to patients to co workers to love interests. The details and research are excellent. I learned tax day was March 15 in 1936! Please read The Unlocked Path first and continue your journey with this sequel. This is my honest review for an ARC received from the author.

[Patti Procopi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sequel to The Unlocked Path and I really, really liked this book. I am impressed by how much research the author did. There was so much history that we often forget - the things our parents and grandparents dealt with - 2 World Wars, the Great Depression, and diseases that claimed and crippled millions that we don't even think about anymore like polio. Not to mention how badly women were treated - including not being considered as 'persons' by the US military. I loved the continuing story of Eliza who has reached great heights at the end of The Unlocked Path and now is having to start from scratch because of the depression and continuing prejudice against women.
Love all the little bits - like mentioning books of the time which were all classics and the music. I laughed. I cried. HIGHLY recommended but you should read the first one first! I love things to be orderly.

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a continuation of the book, THE UNLOCKED PATH, which has Dr. Eliza Edwards as the main character.

You don’t have to read the first book in order to understand this read. BUT Eliza’s journey will take on even more meaning if you read THE UNLOCKED PATH first.

This book is historical fiction set from 1936-1945 and it is told in three parts.

I loved this book because Eliza is 57 years old as the book begins. Eliza modifies her life as times are changing. Eliza remains a strong female main character.

Over the course of the read, Eliza goes to work in rural Tennessee, takes care of her Aunt, and worries about her two sons as WWII rages.

She looses, loves, and always keeps taking care of mothers and babies.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE PATH BENEATH HER FEET is a followup to THE UNLOCKED PATH but can be read as a standalone. The book is well researched and beautifully written rich in details of events during 1937 to 1947 during the depression and WWll. Eliza continues to fight for the rights of women to become doctors and work in hospitals. She cares for her poor patients in Appalachia giving them much needed medical care. She goes through love, divorce, loss, her son's heading to war and caring for her elderly aunt. Through all her obstacles she preserved and moved forward fighting racial prejudice and social change.

[Marilyn Goncalves · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved continuing Eliza’s journey from The Unlocked Path to this sequel, The Path Beneath Her Feet. What intrigued me the most about this book aside from the characters was the detailed research, the history during the World Wars, Great Depression and the little descriptions interweaved through out. This book made me smile and hurt my heart.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this sequel to The Unlocked Path, we follow the life of Dr Eliza Edwards through the the Depression and two World Wars. Eliza is a female physician carving her legacy in a world that does not recognize a woman's right to exist beyond the belief that women should know their place, and stay there. I was drawn in and held captive throughout this entire book. Janis Robinson Daly's attention to detail and writing style delivers an engaging and unforgettable story. I found it hard to put down, and the story lingered on my mind while I was away from reading it. I would highly recommend reading The Path Beneath Her Feet.
I received this book as an advanced reading copy.

[Jackie Sunday · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has it all: women’s rights and health issues, historical events, racial prejudice in the south and wisdom from the beloved character, Dr. Eliza Edwards.

Beautifully written, it starts in 1936 when Roosevelt was President with a challenging agenda of people that were hungry for food and a better life. Sadly, it was common in this time period for professional women to be turned away from employment opportunities because of their gender.

Dr. Eliza Edwards was well qualified as a medical doctor from a respected woman’s college. She had worked for years with another doctor in a successful practice until the economy took a turn. She had experience delivering newborns but the hospital administrator in Boston refused to hire her for the maternity ward at 57 years old when she desperately needed a job.

When things got tough, there was always a path that Eliza followed to move forward. She had been separated from her husband for years and now he was insisting on a divorce. That’s when she was approached to be a caretaker to Kay Morrison Clark, a Black pregnant patient with polio.

Eliza would be monitoring Mrs. John Clark’s health at a spa in the deep south where prejudice was prevalent. President Roosevelt went to Warm Springs, Georgia to strengthen his legs and was convinced it helped him and others with polio. Kay’s father, Congressman Morrison from Chicago was going to do everything he could to help his daughter and send her to this place.

There’s so many accomplishments Eliza had in her life as a doctor, healer and friend to many. She comforted mothers bringing newborns into the world without a concern for their financial situations, color of their skin or medical condition. She had her share of obstacles and held her head high.

This is a story with characters that were easy to like and those that should not be forgotten. Readers will no doubt find parts they can relate to personally from friends or family members who have suffered from tuberculosis, polio, dementia, pregnancy difficulties and situations of racial prejudice along with the sadness of divorce or separations from loved ones. There are positives and strengths one finds from their circle of friends.

It’s the second book that Janis Robinson Daly has written and an excellent one for discussions. While it's a sequel to "The Unlocked Path," it reads very well also as a standalone.

My thanks to Black Rose Writing for an advanced copy of this book with an expected release date of September 5, 2024.

[Vivian · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sequel of The Unlocked Path is a well researched and very engagingly written novel that continues telling the story of Dr. Eliza Edwards, now in her 50s and 60s.
Not only this book gives us the struggle of a female doctor to practice medicine at this time, during the Depression and the WWII era, because of her sex, but also because of her age. But also the books shows us the sometimes unfamiliar existence of poverty and lack of health access for the families in the Appalachian mountains, and especially during this time of history.
An amazingly very well researched book, the details and descriptions of situations and places makes you feel you are walking along with Eliza the path beneath her feet.

[HalKid2 · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE PATH BENEATH HER FEET is the worthwhile sequel to this author's previous book, THE UNLOCKED PATH - both books telling stories related to the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania, which one of the author's ancestors founded. This institution was the first American medical college in the country dedicated exclusively to awarding medical degrees to women.

THE PATH BENEATH HER FEET continues the story of protagonist Dr. Eliza Edwards (who fought hard to become a physician in the author's first book). Now in her 60s, Eliza is looking for ways to share her considerable skills and remain useful. Unfortunately, in the 1930s, Eliza's age and gender, and the massive unemployment stemming from the Great Depression (1929-1939) make this difficult. During hard times, employers give precedence to male breadwinners who are supporting families. The skills of women are too often questioned. Even the government initially rejected women physicians who wanted to care for soldiers during World War II.

Despite the obstacles, Eliza perseveres. In fact, accomplishes much. Her success, in part, comes out of her many friendships with other women and the ways in which they assist one another. Eliza's story is a wonderful way to learn about what it was like for women physicians in the years leading up to and including World War II.

The novel also integrates some key events and efforts of this era. Like the deadly 1942 Coconut Grove nightclub fire in Boston. Or efforts to expand health care services in remote rural areas of the country. Or the widespread fear surrounding the crippling disease of polio (pre-vaccine,) and the treatment available at places like Warm Springs, GA, where former President Franklin D. Roosevelt spent time. And the prevalence of racism and some of the ways in which it was manifested.

This is historical fiction with plenty of drama and I recommend it, especially to see both how much and how little has changed for women in the last 90 years. Like so many of us, Eliza faces decisions about balancing family obligations with professional responsibilities.

I will caution that I found the pace a bit uneven in places with some parts feeling quite slow. (Though, I found the last third of the book moved much faster.) There's also a lot of research detail included, some of which you may feel is unnecessary. Overall, though, a good way to learn about an interesting time.

[Chelsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved Eliza's story in The Unlocked Path and so I as really looking forward to continuing her story in The Path Beneath Her Feet and this was so good as well! We follow Eliza's life during some of the most tumultuous decades in the US. The great depression is sill affecting many families, racism is still very high and forefront and soon another war is about to break out and change history once again. Eliza looking for meaning again, agrees to accompany a patient down to Georgia where she once again feels the joy of what she does with helping others. This has made her want to be back in practice and her need is found in the Appalachia mountains in Tennessee. Going as an assistant she at first is a bit disappointed to be more of a gopher but as time passes, she realizes the potential in this are and sees a vision to help transform these peoples lives and their children's lives and other generations to come. As things come to fruition with her hard work and a few community members who believe in her, she gets summoned back home. Family needs her once again and she cannot turn her back on them. Knowing she is leaving Jellico in great hands, she head back to Boston where her life will change once again with the outbreak of war directly affecting her family and women once again needing to step into the roles the men are leaving behind to fight for our country. Eliza's story is just so good! There is so much history and other characters in this novel, that I just loved it all and it was so well written. You feel for her in all decisions she has to make and situations she is put in. I was sad that Eliza's career has come to an end, but I feel there are other characters that could also have stories written! Thank you to the author for the complementary book and book goodies and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.

[Deborah Fontaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Path Beneath Her Feet is the poignant historical fiction follow-up to Janis Robinson Daly's novel, The Unlocked Path. Can I just say how immensely I enjoyed both of these wonderfully crafted books?!

Janis Robinson Daly continues the story of the mature and determined Dr. Eliza Edwards—a fervent advocate for women's equality and health. We accompany Eliza as she faces numerous obstacles and hardships through World War II, the Great Depression, and the Polio outbreak. We are reminded of the mistreatment of professional women being turned away from employment opportunities because of their gender. Eliza is a woman who struggles, but is strong and independent. However, her determination helps her get through the most difficult times. Eliza guides and encourages others to pursue their dreams.

I experienced so many emotions reading this story. This is a must-read for fans of historical fiction—you are guaranteed to love this story and you won’t want to put the book down!

Events that occurred in the United States from the 1930s through the 1940s have been thoroughly researched and well-written. All the characters are memorable. I was totally immersed in this story.

My sincere thanks to Janis Robinson Daly for the signed copy of her book for my Little Free Library and a digital Advanced Readers Copy for my review. Mark your calendars, its expected release date is September 5, 2024!

[Lisbeth Ivies · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading The Path Beneath Her Feet, I had two initial thoughts. First, there really needs to be more fiction with powerful women protagonists who aren't barely adults. And second, the author has grown substantially in her craft from debut novel to sequel. Considering how much I had already enjoyed the first journey with Dr. Eliza Edwards, a marked improvement is commendable!

The doctor might be facing new challenges such as the Great Depression, the World War II, and grandmotherhood, but her determination to succeed, especially as a woman in the medical field, didn't change. Like The Unlocked Path, I learned from this piece of historical fiction, a testament to how well researched both titles are. The weaving of true people and events in with the fictional was just as compelling as the first time around.

There's a smattering of typos, but the writing and readability overall is largely very solid. The only major thing keeping me from giving The Path Beneath Her Feet a higher rating stemmed from how I felt Dr. Edwards' growth was honored from book to book. Sequels often fall prey to dialing back or resetting parts of character arcs to create conflict again in the new story. That happens a little here while a new complication felt more rushed. Expanding on it would have only benefitted the larger story.

Those who enjoy historical fiction, particularly with a slant toward empowerment of women, should read The Path Beneath Her Feet. Like the first novel in the duology, the characters come alive from the page.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Following Eliza's path through her career was an exciting journey. After meeting her in the debut novel, The Unlocked Path by the same author, I was happy that the sequel followed her all the way until she retired from her long career as a physician. It is evident that an enormous amount of research went into this historical fiction story covering the years 1936-1947, with reference to events of earlier years. Eliza Edwards, MD is a fascinating woman who impacted the lives of many people...friends, patients, and family members. Her desire to help people, no matter who they are, was a driving force which took her on many adventures. Ms. Daly was able to create characters that I want to know and described the settings so that I was able to imagine being there. I can, without hesitation, recommend this book to anyone that has interest in historical fiction, medical fiction, or just plain good stories.

[Laurie Enos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to hear that Janis wrote a sequel to The Unlocked Path. I am happy to say that this book did not disappoint. Eliza's story continues throughout the depression and WWII. Eliza shows us what a strong, independent woman can accomplish when she doesn't take no for an answer. Always believe in yourself, and you can accomplish great things. As Eliza got older, she did struggle but found her purpose and persevered.

Janis writes so beautifully and brings her characters to life. I was immersed in the story and savored it. I always know a story is good when even after reading the book, the scenes keep playing through my mind.

If you enjoy Historical Fiction and strong female characters, you need to read this book. You won't be disappointed!

[Elaine Schroller · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Path Beneath Her Feet, Janis Daly Robinson’s sequel to The Unlocked Path, is inspiring and imaginative, taking readers into Eliza Edwards, MD’s world as she battles the boundaries society places on women in general and women professionals in particular. I loved experiencing Eliza’s world as a mature woman, with all age’s attendant emotional and physical pains and joys. Eliza’s experiences in Appalachia were particularly evocative, and I was thoroughly immersed in that world of hardship and poverty. Brava Janis, and thank you for allowing readers to continue walking vicariously in Eliza’s footsteps.

[Marilyn Rumph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having been fully captivated by Dr. Eliza Edwards in The Unlocked Path, I was excited to read about her life as a mature woman. The book shows how one woman moves forward her career of medicine in the time of the Great Depression and World War II. Times were hard, but our female protagonist forges ahead despite numerous setbacks to continue her medical career. As with any historical fiction, we learn about various aspects of medical care during the years covered in the book. The book is inclusive of Dr. Edwards’ life as we see her struggles with her finances, her family, and her desires for love. There is no need to read the first book in the series, but I loved it. I highly recommend you indulge yourself in this wonderful two-book series.

[Kim Dague · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was eager to read author Janis Daly’s second novel, “The Path Beneath Her Feet”, where we rejoin her character Dr. Eliza Edwards from her debut novel. The continuing story of “Doctor Ma’am” and her challenges as a practicing obstetrician in the first half of the 20th century are engrossing. This is enjoyable and rewarding reading for historical fiction fans. With storylines touching on WWII and Japanese internment, Appalachian struggles, polio and it’s treatment at Warm Springs, and glimpses of daily life for women in the 30’s and 40’s, there is a so much here! Read “The Unlocked Path” first, if you haven’t read it; then highly recommend you read this sequel.

[Booksandcoffeemx · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved The Unlocked Path and Dr. Edwards story and this book was a fantastic sequel.
An inspiring and powerful story based on real characters and events.
Beautifully written, well researched a story about overcoming obstacles and pursuing dreams, perfect for historical fiction fans.

Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝘁 by Janis Robinson Daly releases September 5, 2024.

[Sharmila · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Path Beneath Her Feet” is a captivating sequel that truly lives up to expectations. Following Eliza’s path through Janis’s historical lens, readers are immersed in a rich narrative that intertwines personal struggles with broader historical contexts. As a Bostonian, I also appreciated the local landmarks and references that resonated deeply. The storytelling is both engaging and thought-provoking, making it a compelling read for those interested in history and women's rights.

[Lizy Gaines · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this audiobook because of the narrator and it was wonderful. Not a book I would otherwise have read, but it is an audiobook I have recommended to several people who I know will enjoy listening to it. Women have made such a difference to so many things in this century. I enjoyed listening to this story. I did not listen to the first in the series, but that wasn't necessary to love this one.

[Darlene Golbitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Goodreads, I won this historical novel in a Kindle Giveaway! This sequel to The Unlocked Path does not disappoint! Following Eliza and her fellow graduates of the Women's Medical College of Philadelphia, from the Depression and FDR's programs through the resolution of WWII, these beloved characters, both fiction and real, populate this informative and well researched narrative..I learned so much about the early treatment of polio and the women's health programs of Appalachia! Highly recommend!!

[MICHELE · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really well researched historical fiction about women doctors in the 1930s and 1940s. I always enjoy a book with strong female characters who are pushing the boundaries of society's expectations of them and standing up for their rights. This is book two of a two book series and the author has definitely improved upon her craft. Well done!

[margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true depiction of what woman doctors ( all professional woman in that era) experienced in the male dominated society. It is heartening to read the overcoming abilities portrayed by each woman in this historical novel. Disheartening to look at the circumstances that still exist for women today but we have come a long way baby. Yet miles to go!!!!

[Helene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very excited to learn that Janis Robinson Daly wrote a sequel to her first novel The Unlocked Path. I didn't think it was possible, but this sequel is even better!
I was a part of Eliza's journey from page one and was mesmerized until the end. This was a page turner!
I appreciated that the characters were written as multidimensional. They weren't good or bad people, but very true to life.
Great Historical Fiction teaches the reader about the era and The Path Beneath Her Feet did its job.
Dr. Eliza Edward's story is finished. What's next? I'm looking forward to reading Janis's next novel!

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a book that I was very lucky to win in a goodreads giveaway and let me tell you it was such a lovely story. I enjoyed it because it really explored some of the issues women faced when it came to the medical field. Our main female character faced many obstacles but she managed to come out strong in the end.

[Christina McComiskie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing follow up to "The Unlocked Path". The amazing writing made for a wonderful reading experience.

[Diane Hamel · Rating 4 out of 5]

5 for history - especially since I finished it on International Women’s Day, 3 for choppy transitions, 4 for enjoyment.

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simply good historical fiction. Especially for those interested in the history of women in medicine or WWII era fiction. A wonderful continuation of the series, but I recommend reading the first book in the series The Unlocked Path beforehand. Otherwise, you’d miss too much character background to really appreciate this book.