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The Surgeon of Royaumont
A young Australian woman on the battlefields of World War I finds her calling through her work as a surgeon - and her legacy in compassion. Based on real-life characters and events this thought-provoking novel is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst the ravages of war.
As one of only a handful of female medical graduates working at the Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, Clara Heywood refuses to be denied the chance to become a surgeon because of her sex. As her male colleagues, including her unofficial fiance Edward, head off to war, Clara grapples with a sense of her own unfulfilled purpose. In defiance of her own family and all convention, she leaves for France to work at the Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont Abbey, a hospital managed entirely by women on the Western Front.
There, under the tutelage of Miss Frances Ivens, Clara is thrust into the brutal realities of war, the technical intricacies of surgery and the profound ethical and emotional toll it exacts. Surgery tests not only her skills but her values and Clara discovers that her greatest adversaries are not the wounds of war but the internal conflicts that shape her understanding of humanity, and the heavy burden of her own ambition.
Clara's journey transcends the confines of history, embodying the timeless struggle for identity, purpose, and humanity amidst the horrors of war, and bringing to light the courage and sacrifice of women.
PRAISE FOR THE SURGEON OF
'In a novel equal parts heart-wrenching and fascinating, Susan Neuhaus tells a riveting story of the hurdles and entrenched and internalised misogyny female doctors faced in their efforts to serve their countries during WWI. Filled with unforgettable characters and moments, made more so because of her own experience as both an army officer and surgeon in contemporary war zones, this is imbued with an insider's knowledge. An important book that shines a grim light on the battles never spoken about, and the unsung heroines who waged them.' - Karen Brooks
'Neuhaus shines a light on Australia's unsung medical heroines with meticulous historical detail. Stunningly told.' - Victoria Purman
As one of only a handful of female medical graduates working at the Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, Clara Heywood refuses to be denied the chance to become a surgeon because of her sex. As her male colleagues, including her unofficial fiance Edward, head off to war, Clara grapples with a sense of her own unfulfilled purpose. In defiance of her own family and all convention, she leaves for France to work at the Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont Abbey, a hospital managed entirely by women on the Western Front.
There, under the tutelage of Miss Frances Ivens, Clara is thrust into the brutal realities of war, the technical intricacies of surgery and the profound ethical and emotional toll it exacts. Surgery tests not only her skills but her values and Clara discovers that her greatest adversaries are not the wounds of war but the internal conflicts that shape her understanding of humanity, and the heavy burden of her own ambition.
Clara's journey transcends the confines of history, embodying the timeless struggle for identity, purpose, and humanity amidst the horrors of war, and bringing to light the courage and sacrifice of women.
PRAISE FOR THE SURGEON OF
'In a novel equal parts heart-wrenching and fascinating, Susan Neuhaus tells a riveting story of the hurdles and entrenched and internalised misogyny female doctors faced in their efforts to serve their countries during WWI. Filled with unforgettable characters and moments, made more so because of her own experience as both an army officer and surgeon in contemporary war zones, this is imbued with an insider's knowledge. An important book that shines a grim light on the battles never spoken about, and the unsung heroines who waged them.' - Karen Brooks
'Neuhaus shines a light on Australia's unsung medical heroines with meticulous historical detail. Stunningly told.' - Victoria Purman
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 1, 2025
Doctor Clara Heywood works at the Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney and she wants to be to surgeon and has little chance of becoming one because she’s a woman. When the First World War breaks out, Clara's greatest wish is to help and sign up like her colleagues, she’s courting and her beau Surgical Registrar Edward Burnett joins the army and she sees him off.
Despite Australian women having the right to vote, they couldn’t serve in uniform, and they were told they would be more useful rolling bandages and raising money and keeping out of the way. Clara’s father was a Colonel, as a child she lived in India and she’s always wanted to make him proud, and feels like she should have been a boy. Clara leaves Australia and to work at the Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont Abbey, managed by women on the Western Front and she will be treating French soldiers.
Here, under the guidance of Miss Frances Ivens, she observes battlefield surgery and sees the realities of war, how the cases are assessed and tagged and learns that not everyone can be saved and time is against them. Preforming the surgery herself tests not only Clara’s physical strength and stamina, but her principles and ethics, and the relationships with her peers and other staff at the hospital.
I received a copy of The Surgeon of Royaumont written by Susan Neuhaus a surgeon and ex-army officer from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia. A Historical fiction narrative based around real people and events and you can tell the author has an extensive knowledge about the army and medicine and surgery and the First World War.
A story about war and sexism, self-discovery and development, overcoming challenging situations and trying to pursue goals and being with liked minded and ground breaking women. Clara and her friend and fellow doctor and microbiologist Elsie Dayell and VAD Cicely Worthington shared a special bond and of course her mentor and boss Miss Frances Ivens.
Clara gained inspiration and the will to keep going from Elsie and her favourite motto being “deeds not words” and they will be remembered for their actions and what they did and thanks to Susan Neuhaus who's novel has made me aware of these unknown heroines and the sacrifice and achievements they made. I highly recommend and five stars from me and I'm keen to read Not for Glory.
Despite Australian women having the right to vote, they couldn’t serve in uniform, and they were told they would be more useful rolling bandages and raising money and keeping out of the way. Clara’s father was a Colonel, as a child she lived in India and she’s always wanted to make him proud, and feels like she should have been a boy. Clara leaves Australia and to work at the Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont Abbey, managed by women on the Western Front and she will be treating French soldiers.
Here, under the guidance of Miss Frances Ivens, she observes battlefield surgery and sees the realities of war, how the cases are assessed and tagged and learns that not everyone can be saved and time is against them. Preforming the surgery herself tests not only Clara’s physical strength and stamina, but her principles and ethics, and the relationships with her peers and other staff at the hospital.
I received a copy of The Surgeon of Royaumont written by Susan Neuhaus a surgeon and ex-army officer from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia. A Historical fiction narrative based around real people and events and you can tell the author has an extensive knowledge about the army and medicine and surgery and the First World War.
A story about war and sexism, self-discovery and development, overcoming challenging situations and trying to pursue goals and being with liked minded and ground breaking women. Clara and her friend and fellow doctor and microbiologist Elsie Dayell and VAD Cicely Worthington shared a special bond and of course her mentor and boss Miss Frances Ivens.
Clara gained inspiration and the will to keep going from Elsie and her favourite motto being “deeds not words” and they will be remembered for their actions and what they did and thanks to Susan Neuhaus who's novel has made me aware of these unknown heroines and the sacrifice and achievements they made. I highly recommend and five stars from me and I'm keen to read Not for Glory.
May 23, 2025
*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
👩⚕️A full and glowing endorsement from author Victoria Purman enticed me to pick up The Surgeon of Royaumont over the Anzac Day weekend. What I encountered when I cracked open the spine of this debut novel was a compelling medical history narrative set against the backdrop of the First World War. A story that champions the forgotten female pioneers of the World War One campaign, The Surgeon of Royaumont was insightful, resonating and emotionally stirring.
👩⚕️This novel provides the reader with an informative tale of perseverance, sacrifice and resilience on the battlefields of Europe, through the viewpoint of a female eye. From the bustle of Sydney’s streets, through to the ravaged wartime landscapes of France, Neuhaus introduces us to her admirable lead Clara. An undeniably formidable and inspiring protagonist, Clara works hard throughout this narrative to defy the rigid expectations placed on her of this time period. What I found heartbreaking to read is the fact that Clara is denied the right to practice as a surgeon simply because she is a woman. Clara's experience in this story is definitely one of determination and quiet defiance. She is a true trailblazer of her time and I found myself admiring her inner strength and conviction. I’m sure other readers out there will feel the same!
👩⚕️The historical detail present in this novel is both rich and immersive. Neuhaus expertly portrays the harrowing conditions of typical wartime based medical practices. We are exposed to situations featuring complex surgeries under threat of bombardment, often with limited supplies and relentless pressure. The realism is confronting, but this pure honesty gives the novel further weight and authenticity.
👩⚕️The conclusion of the novel delivers quite an unexpected twist. I found the close of the story to one that is both shocking and thought-provoking. It left me reflecting on the human cost of war and the bravery of those who serve in ways that are often overlooked by history.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4 stars, out now!
👩⚕️A full and glowing endorsement from author Victoria Purman enticed me to pick up The Surgeon of Royaumont over the Anzac Day weekend. What I encountered when I cracked open the spine of this debut novel was a compelling medical history narrative set against the backdrop of the First World War. A story that champions the forgotten female pioneers of the World War One campaign, The Surgeon of Royaumont was insightful, resonating and emotionally stirring.
👩⚕️This novel provides the reader with an informative tale of perseverance, sacrifice and resilience on the battlefields of Europe, through the viewpoint of a female eye. From the bustle of Sydney’s streets, through to the ravaged wartime landscapes of France, Neuhaus introduces us to her admirable lead Clara. An undeniably formidable and inspiring protagonist, Clara works hard throughout this narrative to defy the rigid expectations placed on her of this time period. What I found heartbreaking to read is the fact that Clara is denied the right to practice as a surgeon simply because she is a woman. Clara's experience in this story is definitely one of determination and quiet defiance. She is a true trailblazer of her time and I found myself admiring her inner strength and conviction. I’m sure other readers out there will feel the same!
👩⚕️The historical detail present in this novel is both rich and immersive. Neuhaus expertly portrays the harrowing conditions of typical wartime based medical practices. We are exposed to situations featuring complex surgeries under threat of bombardment, often with limited supplies and relentless pressure. The realism is confronting, but this pure honesty gives the novel further weight and authenticity.
👩⚕️The conclusion of the novel delivers quite an unexpected twist. I found the close of the story to one that is both shocking and thought-provoking. It left me reflecting on the human cost of war and the bravery of those who serve in ways that are often overlooked by history.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4 stars, out now!
April 26, 2025
The Surgeon of Royaumont was a wonderful story to read in the lead up to ANZAC Day. Set during WWI the story follows Australian Doctor, Clara Heywood, as she navigates discrimination and criticism in her new profession, for simply being a female. Clara travels to the Western Front to work as a surgeon treating the casualties of war. Once she begins working at the Scottish Women’s Hospital located in Royaumont Abbey, France, Clara is faced with the brutality and bravery that surrounds her. Susan Neuhaus’s debut fiction novel is a real tearjerker however, it is also a story about strong passionate women (some based on real female doctors), and their fight for equality. Thanks to Better Reading for my preview copy.
June 9, 2025
‘You’ve spent years training for this, Doctor Heywood … Now is your chance.’
Sydney, February 1914. Doctor Clara Heywood is one of a handful of female medical graduates working at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. She has worked hard for acceptance: not everyone accepts women as doctors. Clara Heywood would like to become a surgeon, but there’s little likelihood of this within Australia at the time. And, when war breaks out in August 1914, the Australian Army does not accept female doctors. Clara’s male colleagues, including her unofficial fiancé Edward Burnett, head off to war in Europe.
Clara is determined and, despite opposition from within her family, she leaves for France. Here, working within the Scottish Women’s Hospital at Royaumont Abbey, a voluntary hospital entirely run by women, she learns surgical skills in a demanding environment. Clara is treating French soldiers, dealing with complex cases. The pressures increase as the war progresses, and Clara finds her values as well as her skills tested.
On a personal level, Clara’s father tries to have her return to London where he believes she will be safe. And Clara takes some comfort in the letters she receives from Edward. Clara and the other doctors at the hospital, including the remarkable Miss Frances Ivens, deal with the harsh realities of war: the shocking injuries, the horrific infections and the need to triage patients to try to maximise survival. Clara is ambitious, and longs for a medical role working with the Australian Army. Finally, it seems that an opportunity may arise!
Susan Neuhaus is a doctor, with experience in the Australian Army, and this novel reflects her knowledge and research. I was caught up in Clara’s story, in the choices medical staff had to make, and the reminder that sometimes mistakes are made, and not all endings can be happy.
Highly recommended.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Sydney, February 1914. Doctor Clara Heywood is one of a handful of female medical graduates working at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. She has worked hard for acceptance: not everyone accepts women as doctors. Clara Heywood would like to become a surgeon, but there’s little likelihood of this within Australia at the time. And, when war breaks out in August 1914, the Australian Army does not accept female doctors. Clara’s male colleagues, including her unofficial fiancé Edward Burnett, head off to war in Europe.
Clara is determined and, despite opposition from within her family, she leaves for France. Here, working within the Scottish Women’s Hospital at Royaumont Abbey, a voluntary hospital entirely run by women, she learns surgical skills in a demanding environment. Clara is treating French soldiers, dealing with complex cases. The pressures increase as the war progresses, and Clara finds her values as well as her skills tested.
On a personal level, Clara’s father tries to have her return to London where he believes she will be safe. And Clara takes some comfort in the letters she receives from Edward. Clara and the other doctors at the hospital, including the remarkable Miss Frances Ivens, deal with the harsh realities of war: the shocking injuries, the horrific infections and the need to triage patients to try to maximise survival. Clara is ambitious, and longs for a medical role working with the Australian Army. Finally, it seems that an opportunity may arise!
Susan Neuhaus is a doctor, with experience in the Australian Army, and this novel reflects her knowledge and research. I was caught up in Clara’s story, in the choices medical staff had to make, and the reminder that sometimes mistakes are made, and not all endings can be happy.
Highly recommended.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
March 16, 2025
The Surgeon of Royaumont is a brilliantly written book set in WW1 France. Focused on a young Australian woman, a newly graduated surgeon, who is determined to serve in either the Australian or British Medical Corps, but faces discrimination every step she takes.
A thought provoking, important story of the growth, self discovery and groundbreaking work by women of the time.
A thought provoking, important story of the growth, self discovery and groundbreaking work by women of the time.
July 13, 2025
Captivating historical fiction about a pioneering female surgeon, set in world war one. The author's experience as a war time surgeon really shone through, the story felt realistic and well researched.
Where it fell a bit flat for me was the plot (not much development beyond 'lady surgeon goes to war'), especially the ending. I also didn't particularly relate to Clara's character, which made me less invested in the story.
Overall, an enjoyable, easy read - but missing the plot and character depth needed for me to really love it.
Where it fell a bit flat for me was the plot (not much development beyond 'lady surgeon goes to war'), especially the ending. I also didn't particularly relate to Clara's character, which made me less invested in the story.
Overall, an enjoyable, easy read - but missing the plot and character depth needed for me to really love it.
March 7, 2025
My 6P review: Premise, Plot, People, Place, Prose/Pace, Praise
Based on real people, this story tells of the female surgeons and nurses keeping the front line stitched up and mended.
A lot has changed in a 130 years and a lot has remained the same. Women are still undermined and undervalued and under recognised.
This was such a beautifully written story of how Clara defied her father and society in order to pursue her dreams of becoming a recognised surgeon.
A powerful story of personal goals and beliefs. What is important? Depends who you ask.
The characters were wonderful. Each one was unique and so lifelike.
The setting was so I felt I was assisting Clara in the Abbey.
I knew I was going to like this book after reading the first chapter. It was so beautifully written.
The letter to the reader was very powerful too.
I’ve read plenty of World War I books, but this one resonated with me. I laughed. I cried. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Such a powerful ending.
Thank you to Better Reading for an Advanced Readers Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Score: 146/150=0.973
Based on real people, this story tells of the female surgeons and nurses keeping the front line stitched up and mended.
A lot has changed in a 130 years and a lot has remained the same. Women are still undermined and undervalued and under recognised.
This was such a beautifully written story of how Clara defied her father and society in order to pursue her dreams of becoming a recognised surgeon.
A powerful story of personal goals and beliefs. What is important? Depends who you ask.
The characters were wonderful. Each one was unique and so lifelike.
The setting was so I felt I was assisting Clara in the Abbey.
I knew I was going to like this book after reading the first chapter. It was so beautifully written.
The letter to the reader was very powerful too.
I’ve read plenty of World War I books, but this one resonated with me. I laughed. I cried. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Such a powerful ending.
Thank you to Better Reading for an Advanced Readers Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Score: 146/150=0.973
March 9, 2025
Thank you so much to Harlequin Australia and NetGalley for this advanced readers copy. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
This was an incredibly moving and important story capturing a young Australian woman fighting to be recognised and respected after being denied the opportunity to enlist as a doctor in the Australian Army during WWI.
Clara has the talent, determination, and drive to prove herself, that after refusals from several enlisting offices, she sets off to France to work at the Royaumont Abbey, an all women hospital just 20 miles from the Western Front. At the Abbey she broadened her skills to be trained as a surgeon, completing a wide range of operations that grew more complex as her experience and confidence in the operating theatre increased. The growth and development in Clara is inspiring as she begins to realise just how big of an impact she can have at the Abbey, even without the recognition from the Australian Army. The relationships between the characters including Miss Ivens, Dr Elsie Dalyell, Loic and Beau provided some lightheartedness to the story that was needed!
This story has been impeccably researched with real people, inventions and events integrated flawlessly alongside the gritty injury and surgery details. I am so incredibly impressed with how well Susan Neuhaus has captured all of this information and I definitely plan to read her other novel "Not for Glory" which is also about medical women in the Australian Army.
This was an incredibly moving and important story capturing a young Australian woman fighting to be recognised and respected after being denied the opportunity to enlist as a doctor in the Australian Army during WWI.
Clara has the talent, determination, and drive to prove herself, that after refusals from several enlisting offices, she sets off to France to work at the Royaumont Abbey, an all women hospital just 20 miles from the Western Front. At the Abbey she broadened her skills to be trained as a surgeon, completing a wide range of operations that grew more complex as her experience and confidence in the operating theatre increased. The growth and development in Clara is inspiring as she begins to realise just how big of an impact she can have at the Abbey, even without the recognition from the Australian Army. The relationships between the characters including Miss Ivens, Dr Elsie Dalyell, Loic and Beau provided some lightheartedness to the story that was needed!
This story has been impeccably researched with real people, inventions and events integrated flawlessly alongside the gritty injury and surgery details. I am so incredibly impressed with how well Susan Neuhaus has captured all of this information and I definitely plan to read her other novel "Not for Glory" which is also about medical women in the Australian Army.
July 17, 2025
One women’s incredible story to not only gain recognition as a doctor but fight for the right to represent her country during WW1. But as history shows, women were not acknowledged or accepted in these roles. The women in this story, set in Royaumont Abbey in worn torn France, are just some of the unsung heroines of war. As a volunteer makeshift hospital near the frontlines, run entirely by women, Royaumont changes the lives of all who pass through.
I’m glad there’s authors out there who are telling the stories of these women who were never celebrated like their male counterparts.
Highly recommend
I’m glad there’s authors out there who are telling the stories of these women who were never celebrated like their male counterparts.
Highly recommend
August 16, 2025
The last chapters of this book were so unnecessary. I was really enjoying this book, with some complex medical and ethical issues, but the last third went in a completely different direction and I was really thrown. I enjoyed this read, but the character development was completely wasted by the ending, which changed the major theme from determination to futiliry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2025
3.5 stars.
April 10, 2025
The Surgeon Of Royaumont, while fictional, gives readers a marvelous, if at times somewhat gruesome insight into life in a hospital close to the World War One battlefront. While not a book for the squeamish, this is nonetheless a gripping and fascinating read. I empathised with Clara Heywood as she fought for the right to be seen as equally good as a surgeon as her male counterparts. Clara has incredible inner strength, steeling herself to take on surgical tasks she’s only ever assisted with before arriving at Royaumont Abbey. I loved her passion and her drive as well as her compassion for the patients in her care. I was impressed that the Scottish /women’s Hospital, with whom Clara was contracted for a year of the war, was so advanced in its approach at a time when traditional organisations that were crying out for doctors were unwilling to take a chance on them. The setting at the Abbey was beautifully presented and I felt as though I was right there. The secondary characters were also realistic and added to the depth of Clara’s story, a story that kept me immersed and keen to see what would happen next right to the last page. The other thing I found fascinating was the collection of author’s notes at the end of the story. Don’t cheat and read them first, but do read them because they provide a wonderful background.
September 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Three and a half stars rounded down to three.
The Surgeon of Royaumont by Susan Neuhaus is a historical fiction novel set during World War I, following Australian Dr. Clara Heywood as she defies convention to become a surgeon at a women-staffed Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont Abbey on the Western Front. The novel explores her personal and professional challenges as she confronts the brutal realities of war surgery, her own internal conflicts, and the historical struggle of women in medicine, inspired by the real-life experiences of female Australian doctors during the war.
So this began and continued as a solid 4 to 4.5 stars. I was straight away fascinated about the premise. Australian women doctors during the First World War? I’m in!! I love reading actual biographical accounts and general books about World War One. I find it fascinating, over 100 years ago. I love history, and the interplay of factors that led to and then occurred during the war make it very interesting to learn about. So straight up, this book seems to be a good option for me. I wasn’t a huge fan of Clara throughout the story. She had her moments for sure, but other times I just wanted to smack her. Some of her decisions and the things she chose to do and then justified to herself…well let’s just say she acted like someone not in the middle of a war and situated very close to the front lines in France. But I could get past that. I got into the story. I did really like a lot of the supporting characters and they really added to the story in a substantive way.
So overall at that point I was happy with the book. So why you ask, did I only give this 3 stars when it came down to this review? Well dear person who isn’t actually reading this because I’m sure no one actually reads my reviews, there was one very big and very important reason. That reason was the ending. The ending was just appalling. I was so annoyed. The author could have literally chosen any ending possible and she chose this. After following the character all the way through this book and that’s the ending she gives. I was so pissed that I dropped a whole star. In my opinion, the author ruined this book with that ending. Ugh. 😤
Three and a half stars rounded down to three.
The Surgeon of Royaumont by Susan Neuhaus is a historical fiction novel set during World War I, following Australian Dr. Clara Heywood as she defies convention to become a surgeon at a women-staffed Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont Abbey on the Western Front. The novel explores her personal and professional challenges as she confronts the brutal realities of war surgery, her own internal conflicts, and the historical struggle of women in medicine, inspired by the real-life experiences of female Australian doctors during the war.
So this began and continued as a solid 4 to 4.5 stars. I was straight away fascinated about the premise. Australian women doctors during the First World War? I’m in!! I love reading actual biographical accounts and general books about World War One. I find it fascinating, over 100 years ago. I love history, and the interplay of factors that led to and then occurred during the war make it very interesting to learn about. So straight up, this book seems to be a good option for me. I wasn’t a huge fan of Clara throughout the story. She had her moments for sure, but other times I just wanted to smack her. Some of her decisions and the things she chose to do and then justified to herself…well let’s just say she acted like someone not in the middle of a war and situated very close to the front lines in France. But I could get past that. I got into the story. I did really like a lot of the supporting characters and they really added to the story in a substantive way.
So overall at that point I was happy with the book. So why you ask, did I only give this 3 stars when it came down to this review? Well dear person who isn’t actually reading this because I’m sure no one actually reads my reviews, there was one very big and very important reason. That reason was the ending. The ending was just appalling. I was so annoyed. The author could have literally chosen any ending possible and she chose this. After following the character all the way through this book and that’s the ending she gives. I was so pissed that I dropped a whole star. In my opinion, the author ruined this book with that ending. Ugh. 😤
April 22, 2025
Susan Neuhaus has excelled with this debut novel. She has produced a remarkable and inspiring historical account of an incredibly authentic female doctor: Dr Clara Heywood. Everything about Clara – particularly her courage and determination to make a difference during WWI – strongly resonates. There is so much to love about the telling of this story…
We get vivid descriptions of life in Sydney at the start of the book, and the journey Clara takes as she is faced with so many of the barriers to women that were the norm in those days. Through it all, and despite frequent bouts of self-doubt, she perseveres to arrive in France.
From there, we are introduced to some wonderful characters who all add to the reality of life during that time. But it is the descriptions and complexities of how Clara and her fellow Royaumont Abbey colleagues deal with the multitude of injuries and surgeries on a daily basis that are most memorable. I often felt I was there smelling the smells and marveling at the tenacity of Clara as she grows in capability and confidence.
This is more than historical fiction. It’s a record of triumph and a reminder to us of how women like Clara have challenged the status quo for all women and opened up opportunities because of the personal sacrifices people like her have made, and of the resilience they demonstrate.
Read this book - You will be transported to a time that is retold in a deep and respectful and thoughtful way by Susan Neuhaus, with characters that will linger long after the final chapter.
We get vivid descriptions of life in Sydney at the start of the book, and the journey Clara takes as she is faced with so many of the barriers to women that were the norm in those days. Through it all, and despite frequent bouts of self-doubt, she perseveres to arrive in France.
From there, we are introduced to some wonderful characters who all add to the reality of life during that time. But it is the descriptions and complexities of how Clara and her fellow Royaumont Abbey colleagues deal with the multitude of injuries and surgeries on a daily basis that are most memorable. I often felt I was there smelling the smells and marveling at the tenacity of Clara as she grows in capability and confidence.
This is more than historical fiction. It’s a record of triumph and a reminder to us of how women like Clara have challenged the status quo for all women and opened up opportunities because of the personal sacrifices people like her have made, and of the resilience they demonstrate.
Read this book - You will be transported to a time that is retold in a deep and respectful and thoughtful way by Susan Neuhaus, with characters that will linger long after the final chapter.
March 10, 2025
Clara Heywood trained as a doctor at the Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney and worked, initially, in the children's ward. With the advent of war, surgeons were needed to work overseas treating wounded troops. However, the Australian Army would not accept female doctors in their ranks. Also, Clara's father, an army officer who had served in India, was adamant that no daughter of his would serve in Army medical units.
But Clara was determined to assist soldiers wounded during the war so when Clara heard of the Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont in France, which was run by women to treat wounded soldiers in France, she travelled to England and then to France to take up a position at the hospital.
Treating severely wounded soldiers was an entirely new experience for Clara and it took some time for her to even begin to adjust to her new environment. Fortunately, it would be three months before she would be expected to amputate limbs but treating other battle injuries could also be a challenge.
Trying to establish a role for herself in the medical profession, Clara constantly faced discrimination because she was not male. Overseas she also discovered, from time to time, discrimination because she was Australian. Clara soon discovered that discrimination also existed in a variety of other forms at the hospital.
Although working at Royaumont provided many challenges for the young doctor it allowed her to expand her medical knowledge and expertise. But it took time for her to accept that if a patient died it was not necessarily her fault. She still hoped to eventually work in Australian or British Army medical corps but until that time she would learn all that she could at Royaumont.
The Surgeon of Royaumont by Susan Neuhaus is a thought-provoking novel about the challenges faced by women who wanted to help serve their country overseas by helping their countrymen wounded in battle. This book also provides an insight into the dedicated work of doctors, nurses and VADs in treating the injured with limited resources. Australian women had achieved the right to vote in elections, however there was still a long way to go before equality with men in other areas would be possible.
Many thanks to Better Reading and HQ Books for a preview copy of this book - #BRPreview.
But Clara was determined to assist soldiers wounded during the war so when Clara heard of the Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont in France, which was run by women to treat wounded soldiers in France, she travelled to England and then to France to take up a position at the hospital.
Treating severely wounded soldiers was an entirely new experience for Clara and it took some time for her to even begin to adjust to her new environment. Fortunately, it would be three months before she would be expected to amputate limbs but treating other battle injuries could also be a challenge.
Trying to establish a role for herself in the medical profession, Clara constantly faced discrimination because she was not male. Overseas she also discovered, from time to time, discrimination because she was Australian. Clara soon discovered that discrimination also existed in a variety of other forms at the hospital.
Although working at Royaumont provided many challenges for the young doctor it allowed her to expand her medical knowledge and expertise. But it took time for her to accept that if a patient died it was not necessarily her fault. She still hoped to eventually work in Australian or British Army medical corps but until that time she would learn all that she could at Royaumont.
The Surgeon of Royaumont by Susan Neuhaus is a thought-provoking novel about the challenges faced by women who wanted to help serve their country overseas by helping their countrymen wounded in battle. This book also provides an insight into the dedicated work of doctors, nurses and VADs in treating the injured with limited resources. Australian women had achieved the right to vote in elections, however there was still a long way to go before equality with men in other areas would be possible.
Many thanks to Better Reading and HQ Books for a preview copy of this book - #BRPreview.
March 18, 2025
The Surgeon of Royaumont deals with sexism and discrimination in the early 20th century as well as sacrifice and resilience, and the horrors of war. Clara Heywood has trained as a doctor at the Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney and is battling the discrimination against female doctors in the hospital and beyond. Forced to work in the children’s ward her ambition is to become a surgeon. With the outbreak of war in Europe in 1914, Clara watches her beau, Doctor Edward Burnett sign up with the Australian army and leave for France. She, however, is refused a place in the army and decides to go to England where she again is not accepted as a member of the armed forces. Nevertheless, she gets to France by joining the Scottish Women’s Hospital based in Royaumont Abbey, close to the frontline. This hospital is run by Miss Frances Ivens with only female staff. Here Clara learns about battlefield surgery and despite her reservations about her ability becomes a surgeon. She still faces discrimination from some of the nursing staff and is refused a place in the armed forces more than once but this is compensated by the camaraderie among the other medical staff, the chance to spend time with the horses used to pull ambulances and the opportunities to make a difference to the futures of many of her patients. Susan Neuhaus is a former army surgeon and brought her understanding of battlefield medicine to this story. Her research of this little known story is excellent, and I learned a great deal about these courageous women mostly forgotten in the history of WW1.
My thanks to Better Reading and Harper Collins for an advance reading copy of this book
My thanks to Better Reading and Harper Collins for an advance reading copy of this book
May 29, 2025
Doctor Clara Heywood is still completing her medical degree in Sydney, Australia when WWI breaks out. Her 'almost fiance', Edward joins the army as a Surgeon and sails away to Europe. Clara wants to become a surgeon too as well as join the army but after she graduates, the doors close in her face. She's female, war is not for women! Her own father was a Colonel when they lived in India and within days, he's gone, his services are needed again.
Clara is bound and determined to help and with the support from her mother and younger sister, she travels to England even knowing her father would not approve. She joins the Scottish Women's Hospital team and finds work at the famous Royaumont Abbey helping treat injured French soldiers and others who arrive at the door.
From the moment she arrives, she witnesses chaos, injured men are coming in at times non-stop with injuries she has never even dreamed of and triage is important. With each day, she grows as a surgeon and a woman and learns how to survive in the difficult environment of the hospital. She learns how important it is for other medical staff to respect her by respecting them first. She struggles with the anger and demands of her father when he discovers where she is as well as some of the comments she receives from Edward through their letters. When her one year contract is nearly up, she is called to (Dr.) Miss Frances Ivens' office for a discussion on her future.
I've read other books about these wonderful women who played a huge role in treating the wounded and can't help but admire their tenacity for the huge role they played during WWI.
Clara is bound and determined to help and with the support from her mother and younger sister, she travels to England even knowing her father would not approve. She joins the Scottish Women's Hospital team and finds work at the famous Royaumont Abbey helping treat injured French soldiers and others who arrive at the door.
From the moment she arrives, she witnesses chaos, injured men are coming in at times non-stop with injuries she has never even dreamed of and triage is important. With each day, she grows as a surgeon and a woman and learns how to survive in the difficult environment of the hospital. She learns how important it is for other medical staff to respect her by respecting them first. She struggles with the anger and demands of her father when he discovers where she is as well as some of the comments she receives from Edward through their letters. When her one year contract is nearly up, she is called to (Dr.) Miss Frances Ivens' office for a discussion on her future.
I've read other books about these wonderful women who played a huge role in treating the wounded and can't help but admire their tenacity for the huge role they played during WWI.
September 5, 2025
4.5 stars
The Surgeon of Royaumont is a fabulous debut that tells the extraordinary story of Clara Heywood, a young woman determined to become a surgeon in a time when such ambitions were nearly impossible for women.
Working at Prince Albert Hospital in Sydney in 1914, Clara knows the odds are against her. But when war breaks out, she defies her family and joins the Scottish Women’s Hospital at Royaumont Abbey in France, an all-female-run hospital near the front lines.
What Clara endures there is harrowing. The injuries are horrific, the conditions extreme, and the emotional toll is enormous. Yet Clara flourishes, performing complex surgeries and showing incredible inner strength. Her passion and courage are inspiring, though her stubbornness and refusal to follow protocol lead to some heartbreaking consequences. Fair warning, this book doesn’t sugar-coat the realities of wartime medicine. The surgical scenes are raw, detailed, and at times, difficult to read.
Clara is a phenomenal character. She is fierce, driven, and completely unforgettable. I admired her refusal to accept the limitations placed on her simply because she was a woman.
The author’s real-life experience as a doctor in war zones gives the story authenticity. I felt like I was right there beside Clara through every triumph and tragedy. And the ending? It completely shocked me - I never saw it coming.
The Surgeon of Royaumont is an inspirational, gut-wrenching, and deeply moving novel and a powerful tribute to the women who served with courage and determination. I absolutely loved it.
The Surgeon of Royaumont is a fabulous debut that tells the extraordinary story of Clara Heywood, a young woman determined to become a surgeon in a time when such ambitions were nearly impossible for women.
Working at Prince Albert Hospital in Sydney in 1914, Clara knows the odds are against her. But when war breaks out, she defies her family and joins the Scottish Women’s Hospital at Royaumont Abbey in France, an all-female-run hospital near the front lines.
What Clara endures there is harrowing. The injuries are horrific, the conditions extreme, and the emotional toll is enormous. Yet Clara flourishes, performing complex surgeries and showing incredible inner strength. Her passion and courage are inspiring, though her stubbornness and refusal to follow protocol lead to some heartbreaking consequences. Fair warning, this book doesn’t sugar-coat the realities of wartime medicine. The surgical scenes are raw, detailed, and at times, difficult to read.
Clara is a phenomenal character. She is fierce, driven, and completely unforgettable. I admired her refusal to accept the limitations placed on her simply because she was a woman.
The author’s real-life experience as a doctor in war zones gives the story authenticity. I felt like I was right there beside Clara through every triumph and tragedy. And the ending? It completely shocked me - I never saw it coming.
The Surgeon of Royaumont is an inspirational, gut-wrenching, and deeply moving novel and a powerful tribute to the women who served with courage and determination. I absolutely loved it.
September 4, 2025
💬 “To plunge a scalpel into the flesh takes real confidence and courage—courage as real as any soldier’s.”
💬 “Deeds not words—isn’t that the motto of this hospital?” She said, squaring her shoulders. “Then let’s show them what doctors in petticoats are capable of.”
This story follows surgeon Clara Heywood as she follows her calling to the battlefields during WWI - she is met with many closed doors and resistance, due to her being a woman, but soon finds her place as a surgeon at Royaumont Abbey, a Scottish Women’s Hospital in France.
While this is a work of fiction, it is based on real life characters and events and Susan created such a vivid, fascinating and brutal story that transports you back in time.
I was right there feeling every little thing, alongside the soldiers as they slept in trenches, while rats gnawed and scratched at them - which lead to disease and infection and I was right there alongside Clara as she performed her first procedure, lost her first patient, the death of a close friend and the many amputations that she performed.
It shocked me to find out that woman doctors and surgeons were not accepted by the Australian Army to serve and that their stories and acts were never recognised following the war - so thank-you Susan for bringing their stories to light.
It is a story of resilience, dedication, recognition, the brutalities of war and compassion and was just left amazed by Susan’s debut novel. I also attended her author talk her in Adelaide and her passion while discussing her book and research, was palpable.
💬 “Deeds not words—isn’t that the motto of this hospital?” She said, squaring her shoulders. “Then let’s show them what doctors in petticoats are capable of.”
This story follows surgeon Clara Heywood as she follows her calling to the battlefields during WWI - she is met with many closed doors and resistance, due to her being a woman, but soon finds her place as a surgeon at Royaumont Abbey, a Scottish Women’s Hospital in France.
While this is a work of fiction, it is based on real life characters and events and Susan created such a vivid, fascinating and brutal story that transports you back in time.
I was right there feeling every little thing, alongside the soldiers as they slept in trenches, while rats gnawed and scratched at them - which lead to disease and infection and I was right there alongside Clara as she performed her first procedure, lost her first patient, the death of a close friend and the many amputations that she performed.
It shocked me to find out that woman doctors and surgeons were not accepted by the Australian Army to serve and that their stories and acts were never recognised following the war - so thank-you Susan for bringing their stories to light.
It is a story of resilience, dedication, recognition, the brutalities of war and compassion and was just left amazed by Susan’s debut novel. I also attended her author talk her in Adelaide and her passion while discussing her book and research, was palpable.
April 7, 2025
https://denisenewtonwrites.com/?p=6584
I had not long finished reading and writing about another book on WWI (Soldiers Don’t Go Mad) when this new release landed on my ‘to be read’ pile. A novel, rather than non-fiction, it also deals with the dark legacies of war: the devastating injuries inflicted on young bodies which doctors and surgeons must try to repair.
Susan Neuhaus is herself a surgeon and an ex-army officer and she has chosen to tell the story of some of the trail-blazing women who undertook this challenging task during that earlier war.
Clara, the times and surrounds in which we meet her, are all presented in a way that makes her a totally believable character as she interacts with the real historical figures who also people the story. She is flawed in ways the modern reader can relate to, while we also admire the guts and determination of women like her who forged new pathways at some of history’s most difficult moments. They not only made a difference in their own time, but also opened doors for those women following them.
The Surgeon of Royaumont
Susan Neuhaus
I had not long finished reading and writing about another book on WWI (Soldiers Don’t Go Mad) when this new release landed on my ‘to be read’ pile. A novel, rather than non-fiction, it also deals with the dark legacies of war: the devastating injuries inflicted on young bodies which doctors and surgeons must try to repair.
Susan Neuhaus is herself a surgeon and an ex-army officer and she has chosen to tell the story of some of the trail-blazing women who undertook this challenging task during that earlier war.
Clara, the times and surrounds in which we meet her, are all presented in a way that makes her a totally believable character as she interacts with the real historical figures who also people the story. She is flawed in ways the modern reader can relate to, while we also admire the guts and determination of women like her who forged new pathways at some of history’s most difficult moments. They not only made a difference in their own time, but also opened doors for those women following them.
The Surgeon of Royaumont
Susan Neuhaus
March 8, 2025
Former army surgeon, Susan Neuhaus, begins her immersive tale with the warm nostalgia of a bygone era in Sydney, before transporting the reader to the horrors of war in France. The female run hospital in a beautiful ancient Abbey however offers some sense of stability so close to the front.
Our main character Clara is fighting a battle of her own, to be recognised, valued and respected, and to be admitted as a surgeon into the armed forces. Repeatedly Clara finds herself having to prove herself as she seeks approval and acceptance. As Clara’s experience grows, so does her confidence and ambition, which at times causes her to be impulsive and reckless.
The medical details in the book are fascinating and illuminating, especially the necessary inventiveness, without loss of humanity, as Clara’s mentor Miss Frances Ivens states ‘what is right for the wound is not always right for the patient.’
On a tangent we witness the lovely connection between humans and horses, especially poignant in the context of wartime.
Clara’s character matures quickly, growing in courage and humility, yet always caring deeply, with the final realisation that ‘sometimes it is not what we do but that we care enough to try that matters.’
Our main character Clara is fighting a battle of her own, to be recognised, valued and respected, and to be admitted as a surgeon into the armed forces. Repeatedly Clara finds herself having to prove herself as she seeks approval and acceptance. As Clara’s experience grows, so does her confidence and ambition, which at times causes her to be impulsive and reckless.
The medical details in the book are fascinating and illuminating, especially the necessary inventiveness, without loss of humanity, as Clara’s mentor Miss Frances Ivens states ‘what is right for the wound is not always right for the patient.’
On a tangent we witness the lovely connection between humans and horses, especially poignant in the context of wartime.
Clara’s character matures quickly, growing in courage and humility, yet always caring deeply, with the final realisation that ‘sometimes it is not what we do but that we care enough to try that matters.’
March 24, 2025
The Surgeon of Royaumont is one of the most inspirational books I've ever read. Fiction but based heavily on historical fact, dealing with women doctors in World War 1. I am indebted to #Better Reading for my Advanced Reading copy.
The lack of respect for women surgeons at that time in history, the novel opens in 1914, is mind blowing. Australian Army refuses to accept the women surgeons into service and so many look down on these pioneering women, including, quite often, nurses.
Clara Heywood is based on real life characters, Miss Frances Ivens who was in charge of the Scottish Women's Military Hospital is a real person. Royaumont Abbey, where the Scottish Women's Hospital operated from is near the site of the Battle of the Somme.
A brilliant, inspiring and wonderful debut novel from Susan Neuhaus, which Susan says "Although it is a work of fiction, this story is firmly rooted in historical fact." It describes in detail many medical procedures but if I coped, someone who doesn't even really like the sight of my own blood, I can't see that this would stop anyone from becoming totally involved in the story.
It is, without doubt, an exceptional book, one that will stay in my mind for a long, long time.
The lack of respect for women surgeons at that time in history, the novel opens in 1914, is mind blowing. Australian Army refuses to accept the women surgeons into service and so many look down on these pioneering women, including, quite often, nurses.
Clara Heywood is based on real life characters, Miss Frances Ivens who was in charge of the Scottish Women's Military Hospital is a real person. Royaumont Abbey, where the Scottish Women's Hospital operated from is near the site of the Battle of the Somme.
A brilliant, inspiring and wonderful debut novel from Susan Neuhaus, which Susan says "Although it is a work of fiction, this story is firmly rooted in historical fact." It describes in detail many medical procedures but if I coped, someone who doesn't even really like the sight of my own blood, I can't see that this would stop anyone from becoming totally involved in the story.
It is, without doubt, an exceptional book, one that will stay in my mind for a long, long time.
March 23, 2025
✨ Thank you to Susan Neuhaus and HQ Fiction Australia for providing me with a copy of "The Surgeon of Royaumont" to review. ✨
Some stories work their way so deeply into your heart and mind that you are forever changed by reading them. For me, 'The Surgeon of Royaumont' is one of those stories. After reading the blurb, I knew that it would be compelling, but I wasn’t prepared for the very profound impact it would have on me.
Having served in contemporary war zones as a surgeon for the Australian Army, author Susan Neuhaus transports the reader to the frontlines of World War I with vivid detail born of meticulous research, personal insight and a clear respect for the women who provided medical care there.
Although the book is a work of fiction, the author has noted that Clara and her colleagues were ‘heavily inspired’ by the real Australian women who served as doctors in World War I. In this way, ‘The Surgeon of Royaumont’ provides its readers with the honour of coming to understand the experiences of these brave women, who battled sexism, racism and personal hardship on the frontline - the women whose shoulders we are so fortunate to stand upon today.
5 stars.
Some stories work their way so deeply into your heart and mind that you are forever changed by reading them. For me, 'The Surgeon of Royaumont' is one of those stories. After reading the blurb, I knew that it would be compelling, but I wasn’t prepared for the very profound impact it would have on me.
Having served in contemporary war zones as a surgeon for the Australian Army, author Susan Neuhaus transports the reader to the frontlines of World War I with vivid detail born of meticulous research, personal insight and a clear respect for the women who provided medical care there.
Although the book is a work of fiction, the author has noted that Clara and her colleagues were ‘heavily inspired’ by the real Australian women who served as doctors in World War I. In this way, ‘The Surgeon of Royaumont’ provides its readers with the honour of coming to understand the experiences of these brave women, who battled sexism, racism and personal hardship on the frontline - the women whose shoulders we are so fortunate to stand upon today.
5 stars.
April 3, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from the moment I met Clara Heywood on page 1.
Clara wants is to be a surgeon in a male dominated field. Gritty and determined, she has the talent- she just needs a chance. After a series of rejections, she lands at Royaumont Abbey, a Scottish Women’s hospital in France.
Putting her money where her mouth is, Clara dives into her role, under the considered and expert guidance of Miss Ivens, who is as much Clara’s conscience as she is her mentor. Clara flourishes, but her stubborn and at times wilful behaviour causes her to make mistakes and disregard protocol, which leads to heartbreaking outcomes.
Her relationships are strong, and she bonds easily with the likeminded women she works with- Elsie, Cicely and Miss Ivens. She is compassionate and kind- her obvious love of animals was beautiful to read, her adventures with Beau were quite poignant, as was her friendship with Loic.
The last pages were unexpected-after all that growth and finding her place, I was so sad it had to end,. However, I wonder if Clara would have been happy with what she thought she wanted- marriage and to be working with her compatriots.
Clara wants is to be a surgeon in a male dominated field. Gritty and determined, she has the talent- she just needs a chance. After a series of rejections, she lands at Royaumont Abbey, a Scottish Women’s hospital in France.
Putting her money where her mouth is, Clara dives into her role, under the considered and expert guidance of Miss Ivens, who is as much Clara’s conscience as she is her mentor. Clara flourishes, but her stubborn and at times wilful behaviour causes her to make mistakes and disregard protocol, which leads to heartbreaking outcomes.
Her relationships are strong, and she bonds easily with the likeminded women she works with- Elsie, Cicely and Miss Ivens. She is compassionate and kind- her obvious love of animals was beautiful to read, her adventures with Beau were quite poignant, as was her friendship with Loic.
The last pages were unexpected-after all that growth and finding her place, I was so sad it had to end,. However, I wonder if Clara would have been happy with what she thought she wanted- marriage and to be working with her compatriots.
August 5, 2025
A very disappointing read unfortunately! I wanted to love this book, as it was a thoughtful gift given to me and after previously finishing a well written WWI novel, I was excited to continue the genre. It completely fell short of any and all expectations I had.
Neuhaus exhibited inexperienced and underdeveloped writing skills. I struggled to connect to the female protagonist Clara, whose character I often found arrogant throughout the novel.
Plot development was poor. I found myself completely bored by the story and its repetitive nature. It did not seem to move past “female surgeon goes to war”.
However, i can appreciate the authors main theme here. She is trying to shine a light on female surgeons and Australia’s forgotten medical heroins during war times. But also currently in our world today, where sadly women are still falling short in medicine, in a professional world still largely dominated by men.
This theme was the overbearing basis of the entire novel and sadly left little room for any real facts or history regarding world war 1.
I believe Neuhaus should have stayed in her career as a surgeon rather than attempt to dabble in authorship.
Neuhaus exhibited inexperienced and underdeveloped writing skills. I struggled to connect to the female protagonist Clara, whose character I often found arrogant throughout the novel.
Plot development was poor. I found myself completely bored by the story and its repetitive nature. It did not seem to move past “female surgeon goes to war”.
However, i can appreciate the authors main theme here. She is trying to shine a light on female surgeons and Australia’s forgotten medical heroins during war times. But also currently in our world today, where sadly women are still falling short in medicine, in a professional world still largely dominated by men.
This theme was the overbearing basis of the entire novel and sadly left little room for any real facts or history regarding world war 1.
I believe Neuhaus should have stayed in her career as a surgeon rather than attempt to dabble in authorship.
March 7, 2025
Susan Neuhouse
Book review:
This book had me transfixed from start to finish. I was fascinated by the work undertaken by these doctors and nurses under such harsh conditions. Amazed by the bravery of these women having to practise complex surgery on these young soldiers. Which must have been exhausting day after day, far from their homes, families and loved ones.The central character Clara is extraordinary in her tenacity in completing her duties in this Abbey fitted out as a hospital near the front in France.
Her evolving skills and character development is so well described that you find yourself immersed in reliving each step forward and the occasional step back.
Her personal battle against the hopes and wishes of her father and her fiancé for her future and her expansion of thoughts towards her own desires following her surgical and personal experiences consume her daily.
I cannot praise the author enough for this thrilling read which is a must especially for nurses such as myself.
I loved this book, certainly a novel to relish and treasure.
Book review:
This book had me transfixed from start to finish. I was fascinated by the work undertaken by these doctors and nurses under such harsh conditions. Amazed by the bravery of these women having to practise complex surgery on these young soldiers. Which must have been exhausting day after day, far from their homes, families and loved ones.The central character Clara is extraordinary in her tenacity in completing her duties in this Abbey fitted out as a hospital near the front in France.
Her evolving skills and character development is so well described that you find yourself immersed in reliving each step forward and the occasional step back.
Her personal battle against the hopes and wishes of her father and her fiancé for her future and her expansion of thoughts towards her own desires following her surgical and personal experiences consume her daily.
I cannot praise the author enough for this thrilling read which is a must especially for nurses such as myself.
I loved this book, certainly a novel to relish and treasure.
March 24, 2025
This impressive debut novel by former Army surgeon Susan Neuhaus uses real-life characters and events to create a fictional account of Clara Heywood, an Australian female medical graduate at the time of World War I. Clara wants to become a surgeon to assist in the war efforts and she moves to France to work in a hospital run by women at Royaumont Abbey. There she treats wounded French soldiers and witnesses the horrors and reality of war.
The novel explores the barriers that women doctors faced, and the rights of women more generally, at a time when women in Australia had only recently received the right to vote.
The author’s knowledge of medicine and surgery, and her extensive research of the period are apparent in the detailed descriptions of the medical issues and treatments.
I enjoyed the sympathetic characters and strong female friendships and particularly the portrayal of the relationship between Clara and her mentor, Miss Ivens. The sensitive handling of some of the ethical and moral dilemmas encountered during this period make this a highly recommended read.
Thanks to Better Reading and Harlequin for my ARC
March 16, 2025
The Surgeon of Royaumont is the debut novel by army doctor and surgeon Susan Neuhaus. Loosely based on the lives of real women, it shines a light on women in the medical professions during World War I. The story primarily focuses on Clara Heywood, a recent medical graduate who is fighting for her right to become a surgeon at a time when women were allowed to be nurses but not taken seriously as doctors. With the outbreak of war, the mass casualties bring both opportunities and horrors for women. I found this novel fascinating and I was feeling all of Clara’s frustrations and excitement at seeing her dreams come true. The novel honours the hard work and sacrifices of medical women in WWI. With descriptions of horrific injuries and medical procedures, although not gory, it won’t be for squeamish readers. Highly recommended for anyone interested in war or medical history and female progress.
March 23, 2025
The Surgeon of Royaumont is set in World War 1 and covers issues of sexism, prejudice, sacrifice, resilience and the casualties of war.
The protagonist, Australian Clara Heywood, has successfully fought discrimination to become a medical graduate at the Prince Alfred Hospital, only to find herself once again fighting the powers that be to attain a position as a surgeon in the Australian Army or British Army on the battlefields. She is finally offered a position at the Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont Abbey in France where, under the guidance of Miss Frances Ivens, Clara becomes proficient at performing surgery on the French casualties.
This story is told with compassion and insight by a former Army surgeon whose extensive research has melded the experiences of a number of real life people into an enjoyable fictional read which I found hard to put down.
The protagonist, Australian Clara Heywood, has successfully fought discrimination to become a medical graduate at the Prince Alfred Hospital, only to find herself once again fighting the powers that be to attain a position as a surgeon in the Australian Army or British Army on the battlefields. She is finally offered a position at the Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont Abbey in France where, under the guidance of Miss Frances Ivens, Clara becomes proficient at performing surgery on the French casualties.
This story is told with compassion and insight by a former Army surgeon whose extensive research has melded the experiences of a number of real life people into an enjoyable fictional read which I found hard to put down.
April 27, 2025
An eye-opening, hard hitting, unforgettable story of an Australian female doctor - at a time when there were still almost no female doctors - and her brave efforts to help in WW1. She has to battle society and her own family for the right to work as a surgeon in a makeshift hospital near the front lines in France.
I read this over ANZAC day. It was the perfect read. I learnt so much about medicine, war injuries, social attitudes towards women and women's rights during this period in history. The characters are unique and memorable, from Clara, the ambitious, intelligent main character, to her family, the other doctors and nurses and wounded soldiers they treat - and the abandoned horses that Clara cares for, which offer her a few minutes respite from the horrors of war.
Eye-opening, thought-provoking, heart-breaking and compulsive.
I read this over ANZAC day. It was the perfect read. I learnt so much about medicine, war injuries, social attitudes towards women and women's rights during this period in history. The characters are unique and memorable, from Clara, the ambitious, intelligent main character, to her family, the other doctors and nurses and wounded soldiers they treat - and the abandoned horses that Clara cares for, which offer her a few minutes respite from the horrors of war.
Eye-opening, thought-provoking, heart-breaking and compulsive.
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