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All In Her Hands: A Novel
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Expected 24 Feb 26From USA Today bestselling author Audrey Blake comes a story of love, hope, and perseverance, following one woman's fight against an invisible enemy.
One woman physician. A group of talented midwives. A deadly disease spreading.
1849. Dr. Nora Gibson is the only female surgeon in London. In all of England, even. After earning her medical degree and overcoming the prejudice of those who wished to see her fail, she's finally earned her place at the Great Queen Street Hospital alongside her newlywed husband and her eccentric but ailing adoptive father, the great Dr. Horace Croft.
But peace is hard to come by as a physician, and for one like Nora, it's almost impossible. When Nora takes up the fight to bring midwives into the medical field, her already fragile reputation comes under fire by colleagues and London society itself. And if the possibility of losing her rights to practice medicine wasn't enough, a dangerous enemy has made itself the deadliest cholera epidemic in over a century. It's a swift disease that wreaks havoc and tragedy across the city, especially amongst the working classes, and Nora will do anything she can to help. Soon, she finds herself on the frontlines of the disease, and as those around her begin to fall, she'll have to find the strength to stand alone and maintain her greatest to save lives. Whether she'll make it through, though, is up to fate.
One woman physician. A group of talented midwives. A deadly disease spreading.
1849. Dr. Nora Gibson is the only female surgeon in London. In all of England, even. After earning her medical degree and overcoming the prejudice of those who wished to see her fail, she's finally earned her place at the Great Queen Street Hospital alongside her newlywed husband and her eccentric but ailing adoptive father, the great Dr. Horace Croft.
But peace is hard to come by as a physician, and for one like Nora, it's almost impossible. When Nora takes up the fight to bring midwives into the medical field, her already fragile reputation comes under fire by colleagues and London society itself. And if the possibility of losing her rights to practice medicine wasn't enough, a dangerous enemy has made itself the deadliest cholera epidemic in over a century. It's a swift disease that wreaks havoc and tragedy across the city, especially amongst the working classes, and Nora will do anything she can to help. Soon, she finds herself on the frontlines of the disease, and as those around her begin to fall, she'll have to find the strength to stand alone and maintain her greatest to save lives. Whether she'll make it through, though, is up to fate.
441 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 24, 2026
10 people are currently reading
6913 people want to read
About the author
Audrey Blake
23 books53 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author with this name on GR
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 3, 2025
Great read.
I won this from Goodreads & was not aware that it is the last in a series. The great thing is, you can read it as a stand alone. The only reason I found it it was a series was the author's note at the end of the story.
Easy read that dives into the medical drama of dr's vs midwives in the 19th century.
I won this from Goodreads & was not aware that it is the last in a series. The great thing is, you can read it as a stand alone. The only reason I found it it was a series was the author's note at the end of the story.
Easy read that dives into the medical drama of dr's vs midwives in the 19th century.
December 3, 2025
All in Her Hands is a great read, especially if you enjoy historical fiction. I didn't realize that it was a part of a series but it was written well enough to be a standalone. I really enjoyed diving into 19th century England and the taboo of women in medicine. Having been born in the late 1900's..🥴 it is hard to truly grasp the misogyny in early medicine. I couldn't imagine being Nora, surrounded by men who think women incapable of practicing medicine. I am thankful to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book. I really enjoyed the read and was fascinated by the history within. It started a little slow at first but it quickly picked up pace and was certainly keeping my attention. The characters are well written and show growth throughout. I do think that it ended kind of abruptly but it was a sweet ending nonetheless. I would absolutely recommend this book for historical fiction fans and those that love a strong female character who will not bow to others.
January 19, 2026
All in Her Hands, set during London’s 1849 cholera epidemic, follows Dr. Nora Gibson, the only female surgeon in the city, as she battles not just a deadly disease but a medical establishment determined to undermine her at every turn. Between the misogyny of her colleagues, the precarious finances of her family’s practice, and the sheer devastation of the epidemic, the stakes feel relentlessly high—and that tension is what makes this book so compelling. This was full of grime, urgency, and about as much pressure as you would expect from this type of book.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is how grounded it feels in real history without becoming dry or overly academic. The authors weave in the era’s shifting medical theories in a way that feels organic to the story, raising the ethical and scientific questions doctors truly faced at the time. The cholera epidemic itself acts as the central antagonist, indiscriminate and terrifying, cutting across class lines and forcing characters into moments of reckoning. Nora’s advocacy for midwives and women’s medical education adds another layer, making her fight feel both deeply personal and broadly political.
That said, this is a quieter, more methodical read rather than a fast-paced, twist-heavy one. The pacing occasionally lingers, especially in the first half of the book, and some conflicts resolve more neatly than expected. Still, Nora is a strong, intelligent, and admirably stubborn heroine—one whose courage feels earned rather than idealized. Overall, All in Her Hands is a thoughtful, immersive historical novel about resilience, sacrifice, and what it means to hold fast to your oath when the world seems determined to take everything from you. A solid four-star read, especially for fans of medical history and feminist historical fiction. Historical fiction centered around women and the medical field has slowly but surely become one of my favorite niche genres recently. I loved this!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for this eARC!
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is how grounded it feels in real history without becoming dry or overly academic. The authors weave in the era’s shifting medical theories in a way that feels organic to the story, raising the ethical and scientific questions doctors truly faced at the time. The cholera epidemic itself acts as the central antagonist, indiscriminate and terrifying, cutting across class lines and forcing characters into moments of reckoning. Nora’s advocacy for midwives and women’s medical education adds another layer, making her fight feel both deeply personal and broadly political.
That said, this is a quieter, more methodical read rather than a fast-paced, twist-heavy one. The pacing occasionally lingers, especially in the first half of the book, and some conflicts resolve more neatly than expected. Still, Nora is a strong, intelligent, and admirably stubborn heroine—one whose courage feels earned rather than idealized. Overall, All in Her Hands is a thoughtful, immersive historical novel about resilience, sacrifice, and what it means to hold fast to your oath when the world seems determined to take everything from you. A solid four-star read, especially for fans of medical history and feminist historical fiction. Historical fiction centered around women and the medical field has slowly but surely become one of my favorite niche genres recently. I loved this!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for this eARC!
November 6, 2025
I have enjoyed this novel very much! I read the first two books as well which I also loved. However, one can read this one as a standalone. I found this novel very interesting (as are the other books!): I loved reading about midwifery, the cultural and ethical fight with medical doctors who disapprove of women medical doctors and midwives... Incredible to think about this time for women who did not just want to be wives and mothers! Incredible to experience how they were considered by men (who most probably were scared to lose their power...). I liked the characters very much (Horace and aunt Abbott particularly!). The novel takes place at a time when cholera broke out. The authors described the medical situation showing good historical knowledge. It is a shame there will not be more novels in the series, but I was very satisfied with the conclusion!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
November 15, 2025
thank you to netgalley for an early copy of this book!
i enjoyed the second half of this book immensely. the first half took a bit of time to get stuck into but once i did, i really enjoyed it. i enjoyed the nuances of all the female characters which isn’t something that you get very often
i enjoyed the second half of this book immensely. the first half took a bit of time to get stuck into but once i did, i really enjoyed it. i enjoyed the nuances of all the female characters which isn’t something that you get very often
December 31, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to read this one. I went in blind not knowing it was technically book 3, so I quickly placed holds at my library for the others! I really enjoyed this piece of history I didn’t know about. I will definitely read more Audrey Blake books.
January 10, 2026
I loved visiting with Nora again. I think I might have missed the last book in this series but honestly I was able to pick up easily. This book deals with a lot of themes women are still dealing with today such as straddling work, marriage and motherhood. A nice ,slow and easy read.
November 30, 2025
Thank you to the author and publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this early copy.
All in Her Hands is a really compelling mix of medical history, resilience, and a woman trying to make her place in a world that keeps pushing her back. The 1849 London setting feels vivid, and the cholera outbreak adds real tension. I liked following her fight to be taken seriously and the emotional stakes that came with every choice she had to make.
Some parts moved a little slowly for me, but the story still held my interest and I liked how grounded and human it felt. Overall, a solid and thoughtful read with a strong main character.
All in Her Hands is a really compelling mix of medical history, resilience, and a woman trying to make her place in a world that keeps pushing her back. The 1849 London setting feels vivid, and the cholera outbreak adds real tension. I liked following her fight to be taken seriously and the emotional stakes that came with every choice she had to make.
Some parts moved a little slowly for me, but the story still held my interest and I liked how grounded and human it felt. Overall, a solid and thoughtful read with a strong main character.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In 1849 London, the medical profession remained a predominantly male field, one that often disparaged female practitioners. Despite such opposition, the Italian-educated Dr. Nora Gibson, the only female surgeon in the city, works alongside a talented group of doctors at the Great Queen Street Hospital. In the novel All in Her Hands by Audrey Blake - the pen name for the writing duo of Regina Sirois and Jaima Fixsen - Nora tries to balance her career, her marriage, and a devastating virulent cholera epidemic the likes of which London has not seen before. Whether her life, love, or profession remain fully intact, however, is up to fate.
Newly married and returned from Europe, Nora and her husband Daniel work and reside in the private practice of Dr. Horace Croft, Nora’s adopted father and mentor. The practice caters to poor families, and as a result, money is tight. Her status as a female surgeon bars Nora from many opportunities. In spite of the misogyny, prejudice, and ridicule she faces, Nora admirably persists, particularly in advocating for medical education for midwives.
When a cholera epidemic sweeps through the city, indiscriminately killing the poor and rich alike, Nora and her colleagues are on the front line. Resources stretch thin, and danger looms over them all. Amidst this, Nora remains brave and true to her oath to help as many people as possible, even at the risk to her own life.
All in Her Hands stands as a true testament to a woman's courage in the face of danger and adversity. Nora faces odds stacked against her with resilience, tenacity, and patience, sometimes with a stubbornness bordering on obstinacy. In an age when women rarely held non-domestic jobs, Nora up-ends traditional expectations, leading a crusade to change perceptions of women in the medical profession.
The authors’ intentional historical backdrop of the 1849 cholera epidemic offers rich societal, cultural, and scientific context from which they can draw. Of particular relevance was the 19th-century paradigm shift from the humorism and miasmic medical theories which pervaded ancient, medieval, and early modern societies to germ theory. English physician John Snow championed germ theory during the 1854 Broad Street epidemic in London, shortly after the novel’s time period. Such a forward-thinking physician inspired the creation of Dr. Croft, and the authors note other historical figures who influenced their characters. This close attention to history makes for more engrossing reading, fully-realized characters, and compelling plots.
The novel positions the cholera epidemic as the central antagonist, especially in its sobering equalizing nature, bypassing any cultural, geographic, social, political, and economic barriers. The disease surges through London’s labyrinthine warrens, at first targeting the poor in their tightly-packed, dingy tenements. But even the rich suffered. And it’s when cholera strikes one of Daniel’s wealthy, traditional relatives where Nora finds herself on equal footing with someone who treated her as inferior. It’s a fascinating juxtaposition that introduces the novel’s climax but also finds Nora at her strongest.
All in Her Hands offers readers a tight plot with fleshed-out, compelling characters; immersive but approachable interwoven history; a nuanced commentary on women in the medical profession and shifting medical theories; and a forward-thinking, intelligent, and tenacious heroine. Finally, All in Her Hands is the third novel in a series but can be read as a standalone.
Thank you to the authors and Sourcebooks Landmark for a digital copy of this novel via NetGalley for review consideration.
Newly married and returned from Europe, Nora and her husband Daniel work and reside in the private practice of Dr. Horace Croft, Nora’s adopted father and mentor. The practice caters to poor families, and as a result, money is tight. Her status as a female surgeon bars Nora from many opportunities. In spite of the misogyny, prejudice, and ridicule she faces, Nora admirably persists, particularly in advocating for medical education for midwives.
When a cholera epidemic sweeps through the city, indiscriminately killing the poor and rich alike, Nora and her colleagues are on the front line. Resources stretch thin, and danger looms over them all. Amidst this, Nora remains brave and true to her oath to help as many people as possible, even at the risk to her own life.
All in Her Hands stands as a true testament to a woman's courage in the face of danger and adversity. Nora faces odds stacked against her with resilience, tenacity, and patience, sometimes with a stubbornness bordering on obstinacy. In an age when women rarely held non-domestic jobs, Nora up-ends traditional expectations, leading a crusade to change perceptions of women in the medical profession.
The authors’ intentional historical backdrop of the 1849 cholera epidemic offers rich societal, cultural, and scientific context from which they can draw. Of particular relevance was the 19th-century paradigm shift from the humorism and miasmic medical theories which pervaded ancient, medieval, and early modern societies to germ theory. English physician John Snow championed germ theory during the 1854 Broad Street epidemic in London, shortly after the novel’s time period. Such a forward-thinking physician inspired the creation of Dr. Croft, and the authors note other historical figures who influenced their characters. This close attention to history makes for more engrossing reading, fully-realized characters, and compelling plots.
The novel positions the cholera epidemic as the central antagonist, especially in its sobering equalizing nature, bypassing any cultural, geographic, social, political, and economic barriers. The disease surges through London’s labyrinthine warrens, at first targeting the poor in their tightly-packed, dingy tenements. But even the rich suffered. And it’s when cholera strikes one of Daniel’s wealthy, traditional relatives where Nora finds herself on equal footing with someone who treated her as inferior. It’s a fascinating juxtaposition that introduces the novel’s climax but also finds Nora at her strongest.
All in Her Hands offers readers a tight plot with fleshed-out, compelling characters; immersive but approachable interwoven history; a nuanced commentary on women in the medical profession and shifting medical theories; and a forward-thinking, intelligent, and tenacious heroine. Finally, All in Her Hands is the third novel in a series but can be read as a standalone.
Thank you to the authors and Sourcebooks Landmark for a digital copy of this novel via NetGalley for review consideration.
January 4, 2026
ALL IN HER HANDS is the third novel in a wonderful historical fiction series about Dr. Nora Beady Gibson, a fictitious character representing the few determined women who fought to break down male-only barriers in the practice of medicine, particularly obstetrics. But, as Dr. Gibson finds out, becoming a doctor is not the end of the battles she must wage. Awarded four stars on Goodreads, but I might go as high as 4.5. Because ALL IN HER HANDS combines two of my particular interests: early medical practices and women struggling for recognition of their abilities.
It's summer in London, 1849. After completing medical school in Bologna, Italy (where training women as physicians is a bit more common), Nora has now returned to London, is married to her much loved physician-husband Daniel, and is applying her considerable skills treating patients in the small hospital built by her famous foster father/physician (Horace). Here's what is on her plate:
• Most men will not even consider seeing a woman physician, essentially limiting Nora's practice to women.
• Nora's male colleagues do not believe they can learn anything from her, even though Nora is one of the only doctors at this time who has successfully performed a Caesarian delivery.
• Horace has had a series of strokes and is having a difficult adjustment to not being able to perform as the brilliant doctor he once was.
• Nora's new in-laws (whom Daniel deeply loves) are scandalized that she is continuing to perform surgery, which they consider un-ladylike, and they are appalled that Nora plans to continue practicing even after she has children.
• • With an deep passion for improving the lives of women, Nora believes that physicians and midwives should work together to share knowledge and improve obstetrical care. Even though midwives usually deliver babies among the British lower classes while physicians handle upper class pregnancies. Not surprisingly, male physicians, who look down on midwives and worry about losing fees, want to prevent any cooperation.
• A few cases of cholera have been identified in the city, stirring up fear among those who witnessed a previous outbreak (1826-37), a pandemic where Nora lost her entire family. Remember, this is long before cholera vaccines and widespread understanding of germ theory.
So, you can see there's plenty of drama to go around. It turns out the few isolated cases of cholera mark the beginning of a third cholera pandemic (1846-60), that eventually kills tens of thousands of people in Great Britain. If you know any medical history, you may remember this is the very same pandemic where English physician Dr. John Snow (1813-58) identified contaminated water as the means of transmitting cholera.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable novel. The author certainly understands how to keep a story moving and successfully communicates their (pronoun explained below) own personal fascination with medical procedures. Nora is a wonderful heroine who manages to be fully human, often getting angry and even making some bad choices.
The author, Audrey Blake is not a real person. She is a pseudonym used by two authors (Canadian Jaime Fixsen and American Regina Sirois) who have been writing this series together over a dozen years. It appears from their website that ALL IN HER HANDS is the final book in Nora's story. So, don't miss it.
It's summer in London, 1849. After completing medical school in Bologna, Italy (where training women as physicians is a bit more common), Nora has now returned to London, is married to her much loved physician-husband Daniel, and is applying her considerable skills treating patients in the small hospital built by her famous foster father/physician (Horace). Here's what is on her plate:
• Most men will not even consider seeing a woman physician, essentially limiting Nora's practice to women.
• Nora's male colleagues do not believe they can learn anything from her, even though Nora is one of the only doctors at this time who has successfully performed a Caesarian delivery.
• Horace has had a series of strokes and is having a difficult adjustment to not being able to perform as the brilliant doctor he once was.
• Nora's new in-laws (whom Daniel deeply loves) are scandalized that she is continuing to perform surgery, which they consider un-ladylike, and they are appalled that Nora plans to continue practicing even after she has children.
• • With an deep passion for improving the lives of women, Nora believes that physicians and midwives should work together to share knowledge and improve obstetrical care. Even though midwives usually deliver babies among the British lower classes while physicians handle upper class pregnancies. Not surprisingly, male physicians, who look down on midwives and worry about losing fees, want to prevent any cooperation.
• A few cases of cholera have been identified in the city, stirring up fear among those who witnessed a previous outbreak (1826-37), a pandemic where Nora lost her entire family. Remember, this is long before cholera vaccines and widespread understanding of germ theory.
So, you can see there's plenty of drama to go around. It turns out the few isolated cases of cholera mark the beginning of a third cholera pandemic (1846-60), that eventually kills tens of thousands of people in Great Britain. If you know any medical history, you may remember this is the very same pandemic where English physician Dr. John Snow (1813-58) identified contaminated water as the means of transmitting cholera.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable novel. The author certainly understands how to keep a story moving and successfully communicates their (pronoun explained below) own personal fascination with medical procedures. Nora is a wonderful heroine who manages to be fully human, often getting angry and even making some bad choices.
The author, Audrey Blake is not a real person. She is a pseudonym used by two authors (Canadian Jaime Fixsen and American Regina Sirois) who have been writing this series together over a dozen years. It appears from their website that ALL IN HER HANDS is the final book in Nora's story. So, don't miss it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Best book of 2026. Historical fiction at its finest.
All in Her Hands is one of the best books I have ever read—and that is saying something, as I had just finished another deeply moving novel before starting this one.
This is the third book about a group of gifted Victorian-era doctors dedicated to helping patients rather than chasing money or prestige. You do not need any interest in medicine to be completely absorbed by this story.
Although I loved the first two books, it isn’t necessary to have read them to enjoy this one. I read it in a single day and immediately wanted to reread the earlier books because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to Nora, Daniel, Horace, and the other tenderly human, lovable characters. They are intelligent, noble, courageous, and deeply caring—even as they face profound personal challenges.
Set during the cholera pandemic, the novel follows Nora, a woman physician viewed with skepticism and hostility by society and her fellow doctors. Her tenacity and willingness to learn ultimately save lives.
The writing is eloquent and deeply affecting—I highlighted nearly 30% of the book. One line that stayed with me:
“She dipped into a deep well at the center of herself, drawing up a bucket of unshakable certainty.”
This is a beautiful, intelligent, historically rich novel filled with love. Though ultimately hopeful, I sobbed through the final chapters. Deeply satisfying and unforgettable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#Allinherhands #NetGalley
Best book of 2026. Historical fiction at its finest.
All in Her Hands is one of the best books I have ever read—and that is saying something, as I had just finished another deeply moving novel before starting this one.
This is the third book about a group of gifted Victorian-era doctors dedicated to helping patients rather than chasing money or prestige. You do not need any interest in medicine to be completely absorbed by this story.
Although I loved the first two books, it isn’t necessary to have read them to enjoy this one. I read it in a single day and immediately wanted to reread the earlier books because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to Nora, Daniel, Horace, and the other tenderly human, lovable characters. They are intelligent, noble, courageous, and deeply caring—even as they face profound personal challenges.
Set during the cholera pandemic, the novel follows Nora, a woman physician viewed with skepticism and hostility by society and her fellow doctors. Her tenacity and willingness to learn ultimately save lives.
The writing is eloquent and deeply affecting—I highlighted nearly 30% of the book. One line that stayed with me:
“She dipped into a deep well at the center of herself, drawing up a bucket of unshakable certainty.”
This is a beautiful, intelligent, historically rich novel filled with love. Though ultimately hopeful, I sobbed through the final chapters. Deeply satisfying and unforgettable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#Allinherhands #NetGalley
November 9, 2025
Historical fiction and medicine? I’m in! All In Her Hands by Audrey Blake drops us into a mid-19th-century cholera outbreak in London, following Nora, an Italian-trained physician and surgeon trying to balance the expectations of her era, her marriage, and a rapidly spreading epidemic.
The state of medicine at the time is done well but I have to say - Blake really shines with her character work. Everyone feels fully realized. Nora, especially, stands out with her unending determination to practice and teach medicine, even when it means ruffling more than a few feathers. The main antagonist (besides cholera itself), Dr. Adams, is a wonderfully infuriating misogynist surgeon who opposes both Nora and midwifery at every turn. As the outbreak hits London, Nora’s entire circle - Horace, Daniel, Harry, and Julia - throws themselves into caring for patients regardless of ability to pay, and each of them has enough depth that their motivations feel clear and convincing. That’s not always a given in a story with a strong central protagonist, so it’s a welcome strength here.
I was surprised to learn in the Author’s Note that this is actually the third book in a series. It reads perfectly well as a standalone though as Blake weaves in enough background to keep everything coherent without ever info-dumping.
Thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark and NetGalley for early digital access. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The state of medicine at the time is done well but I have to say - Blake really shines with her character work. Everyone feels fully realized. Nora, especially, stands out with her unending determination to practice and teach medicine, even when it means ruffling more than a few feathers. The main antagonist (besides cholera itself), Dr. Adams, is a wonderfully infuriating misogynist surgeon who opposes both Nora and midwifery at every turn. As the outbreak hits London, Nora’s entire circle - Horace, Daniel, Harry, and Julia - throws themselves into caring for patients regardless of ability to pay, and each of them has enough depth that their motivations feel clear and convincing. That’s not always a given in a story with a strong central protagonist, so it’s a welcome strength here.
I was surprised to learn in the Author’s Note that this is actually the third book in a series. It reads perfectly well as a standalone though as Blake weaves in enough background to keep everything coherent without ever info-dumping.
Thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark and NetGalley for early digital access. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. It’s technically part of a series, but it reads perfectly well as a standalone. We follow Dr. Nora Gibson, the only female surgeon in England, as she battles not only for her patients’ lives but for the recognition of midwives in a rigid, male-dominated medical world.
The historical detail is so vivid. From the tension from her fellow surgeons to the constant pushback Nora faces just for daring to exist in her profession. And layered over all of that is a devastating cholera outbreak sweeping through the city. Healing the people of London isn’t just duty for Nora; it’s deeply personal. She lost her own family to cholera and is one of the few who survived, and that grief fuels her determination as she steps into the chaos while carrying new life herself. Her pregnancy adds an entire layer of urgency and quiet bravery to everything she faces.
I also loved Nora and Daniel’s relationship. Their bond brings so much warmth to the story, and the way Daniel consistently stands up for her is genuinely heart warming. He never tries to dim her fire, he protects it.
It’s a compelling blend of medical history, resilience, and one woman’s fight to carve out space in a field determined to shut her out. Definitely a strong four star read from me.
Thank you SourceBooks Landmark and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The historical detail is so vivid. From the tension from her fellow surgeons to the constant pushback Nora faces just for daring to exist in her profession. And layered over all of that is a devastating cholera outbreak sweeping through the city. Healing the people of London isn’t just duty for Nora; it’s deeply personal. She lost her own family to cholera and is one of the few who survived, and that grief fuels her determination as she steps into the chaos while carrying new life herself. Her pregnancy adds an entire layer of urgency and quiet bravery to everything she faces.
I also loved Nora and Daniel’s relationship. Their bond brings so much warmth to the story, and the way Daniel consistently stands up for her is genuinely heart warming. He never tries to dim her fire, he protects it.
It’s a compelling blend of medical history, resilience, and one woman’s fight to carve out space in a field determined to shut her out. Definitely a strong four star read from me.
Thank you SourceBooks Landmark and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2025
"In our society, the women who break down barriers are those who ignore limits." (A. Schwarzenegger)
And nothing puts a shoulder to those barriers than a woman determined to find her rightful place in the medical field. Meet Dr. Nora Gibson. It's 1849 in London and the shades are drawn tight in admitting women to practice medicine in a profession garnered completely by men. Nora traveled to Italy to complete her studies where women in medicine was a common practice.
As circumstances change, Nora married a doctor herself in London. They reside in the private practice of Dr. Horace Croft who raised Nora from childhood when her family was wiped out by cholera. Their patients are numbered within the poor in the surrounding area. Money is tight. Although Nora has been trained as a surgeon, her opportunities are limited. Dr. Croft supports all her endeavors.
But the hand of fate strikes a blow to London once again. A few cases of cholera have been experienced from sailors at the port. And then, the horrendous epidemic takes hold throughout the city. Audrey Blake shines a light on the limited means that physicians had when treating these patients. It hit both rich and poor. Surviving was hardly an option.
I can readily attest to the fact that All in Her Hands can be read as a standalone. I had no idea that there were two previous books in this series. (The Girl in His Shadow (2021) and The Surgeon's Daughter (2022)). Read the Author's Notes. The character of Nora is loosely based on the first renowned female doctor, Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell. As with Dr. Blackwell, Nora fights discrimination left and right and proves to be an advocate for certifying midwives and for making inroads into women's health. Do yourself a favor. Although fiction, All in Her Hands is an eye-opener.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and to the talented Audrey Blake for the opportunity.
And nothing puts a shoulder to those barriers than a woman determined to find her rightful place in the medical field. Meet Dr. Nora Gibson. It's 1849 in London and the shades are drawn tight in admitting women to practice medicine in a profession garnered completely by men. Nora traveled to Italy to complete her studies where women in medicine was a common practice.
As circumstances change, Nora married a doctor herself in London. They reside in the private practice of Dr. Horace Croft who raised Nora from childhood when her family was wiped out by cholera. Their patients are numbered within the poor in the surrounding area. Money is tight. Although Nora has been trained as a surgeon, her opportunities are limited. Dr. Croft supports all her endeavors.
But the hand of fate strikes a blow to London once again. A few cases of cholera have been experienced from sailors at the port. And then, the horrendous epidemic takes hold throughout the city. Audrey Blake shines a light on the limited means that physicians had when treating these patients. It hit both rich and poor. Surviving was hardly an option.
I can readily attest to the fact that All in Her Hands can be read as a standalone. I had no idea that there were two previous books in this series. (The Girl in His Shadow (2021) and The Surgeon's Daughter (2022)). Read the Author's Notes. The character of Nora is loosely based on the first renowned female doctor, Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell. As with Dr. Blackwell, Nora fights discrimination left and right and proves to be an advocate for certifying midwives and for making inroads into women's health. Do yourself a favor. Although fiction, All in Her Hands is an eye-opener.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and to the talented Audrey Blake for the opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a solid historical fiction read. I enjoy books about women blazing a trail in male dominated careers, which is what we get with All In Her Hands.
As a reader, we are going all the way back to the mid 1800s. Nora is a knowledgeable surgeon trained in Italy and now working in London, where she is the only female surgeon. As you can imagine, the obstacles are immense. Not only are many male doctors resistant to her presence and qualifications, but Nora begins championing the movement to train and educate midwives. She believes that this benefit is mutually beneficial - doctors can learn from the experience of midwives and in turn, midwives can help address heavy patient loads.
Now, reading a story about this conflict between doctors and midwives could have been a whole story on its own. However, we also get the added issue of the cholera pandemics. I learned so much about this dreadful disease, but it really helped build up the backstory of Nora and those in her inner circle. The character development was fantastic all around.
Thank you to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark for the advanced digital copy via NetGalley. To my surprise, this is the third book in a series; however, this can definitely be read as a standalone. It's a complete, fulfilling story in and of itself. I only realised it was a series when coming across further reviews.
As a reader, we are going all the way back to the mid 1800s. Nora is a knowledgeable surgeon trained in Italy and now working in London, where she is the only female surgeon. As you can imagine, the obstacles are immense. Not only are many male doctors resistant to her presence and qualifications, but Nora begins championing the movement to train and educate midwives. She believes that this benefit is mutually beneficial - doctors can learn from the experience of midwives and in turn, midwives can help address heavy patient loads.
Now, reading a story about this conflict between doctors and midwives could have been a whole story on its own. However, we also get the added issue of the cholera pandemics. I learned so much about this dreadful disease, but it really helped build up the backstory of Nora and those in her inner circle. The character development was fantastic all around.
Thank you to SOURCEBOOKS Landmark for the advanced digital copy via NetGalley. To my surprise, this is the third book in a series; however, this can definitely be read as a standalone. It's a complete, fulfilling story in and of itself. I only realised it was a series when coming across further reviews.
November 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this third book in the Nora Beady series, although it can easily be read as a stand alone. In this historical fiction novel Nora continues to fight to be respected as the only female physician in England, and begins a new battle, one to train midwives so that they can be even more effective in their jobs. She battles two main protagonists this time, Dr. Adams, who is determined to discredit her and all midwives as well, and a cholera epidemic racing through the country.
I learned a lot about medicine in 1949, midwives and the cholera epidemic while reading a very interesting page turning story. The author team that makes up Audrey Blake always makes me get very invested in their characters, root for the good guys, hiss at the bad guys and worry about our heroes. There is nothing better in my reading than a historical fiction novel that can tell a wonderful story while helping me to learn something, so I highly recommend the whole series, although this can be read as a stand alone.
Thank you to Sourcebook Landmark and net galley for a digital copy of this book for review.
I learned a lot about medicine in 1949, midwives and the cholera epidemic while reading a very interesting page turning story. The author team that makes up Audrey Blake always makes me get very invested in their characters, root for the good guys, hiss at the bad guys and worry about our heroes. There is nothing better in my reading than a historical fiction novel that can tell a wonderful story while helping me to learn something, so I highly recommend the whole series, although this can be read as a stand alone.
Thank you to Sourcebook Landmark and net galley for a digital copy of this book for review.
December 5, 2025
By way of advance reading from Netgalley.
Nora is a doctor in 1840s England. The trouble is they do not appreciate women in the practice no matter how good they are. I really liked Nora at the start and she had a good circle of friends around her too. The first call we see her take in the book is for a woman giving birth to her first child and having difficulty. It was very interesting seeing Nora go through all of the steps of aiding in childbirth and reflecting on problem of the past. This really helped to flesh out the story. Nora is not what I like to call a “mouthpiece character”. That is she is not there to spout the views of the writer to the audience, but she is her own person and very fleshed out. The trouble with "mouthpiece characters” is they have no ‘soul’. They just exist to say things, usually what the writer of the book of show thinks so their personality changes as needed. Right off the bat you can see that Nora as well as her husband are not such characters. I enjoy reading books like this so much because it gives it a heart. These are character with their own skins.
January 10, 2026
In this third instalment of the Nora Beady series, Nora has returned to London after qualifying as a surgeon in Bologna and married fellow doctor Daniel. She is running Horace Croft’s small hospital on Queen Street. At a difficult delivery, Nora is impressed by a seasoned midwife who is eager to learn more, such as the use of forceps. When Nora starts training the local midwives, she is met with opposition by a large part of the medical community. Meanwhile, cholera, the disease that killed Nora’s family when she was a girl, is rearing its ugly head again in London.
When I requested the ARC, I didn’t realize it was the third in the series so I quickly listened to the first two books on audio. It was easy to breeze through them as I found them fascinating and incredibly engaging. The audio is very well done and I would have happily listened to the third that way if I hadn’t gotten a DRC.
In all three books, Blake explores medicine in the 1840s and doesn’t shy away from describing surgeries and disease. In this book, we learn about early experimentation in IV therapy as well as seeing the start of certification for midwives. I found the book to be utterly absorbing, perhaps because I’m a nurse, but apart from the medical aspects, Blake has created a family of characters that are easy to love.
I hope there is more to come from this series and have greatly enjoyed my reading experience.
When I requested the ARC, I didn’t realize it was the third in the series so I quickly listened to the first two books on audio. It was easy to breeze through them as I found them fascinating and incredibly engaging. The audio is very well done and I would have happily listened to the third that way if I hadn’t gotten a DRC.
In all three books, Blake explores medicine in the 1840s and doesn’t shy away from describing surgeries and disease. In this book, we learn about early experimentation in IV therapy as well as seeing the start of certification for midwives. I found the book to be utterly absorbing, perhaps because I’m a nurse, but apart from the medical aspects, Blake has created a family of characters that are easy to love.
I hope there is more to come from this series and have greatly enjoyed my reading experience.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
All in Her Hands is a sequel of sorts to Blake's previous book The Girl in His Shadow. Dr Nora Gibson is a full fledged doctor, trained at a leading medical school and now the only female physician in London. She is now working at the Great Queen Street Hospital along with her new husband and her mentor (and adoptive father). But the prejudice in London is worse even than it was in Italy, and Nora finds herself engaged in a battle for survival over the right of midwives to treat and deliver pregnant women. To doctors, the midwives are financial competitors. But midwives have much more knowledge and experience in labor, delivery and women's health needs than the male doctors, and they are saving lives while the ignorance of the male doctors are losing them. All in her hands is Nora's story of how she deals with this prejudice and seeks a way to incorporate midwives into women's health based on the benefits to women.
If you read The Girl in His Shadow you will definitely want to read All in Her Hands. It's absorbing and fascinating and well worth a read.
If you read The Girl in His Shadow you will definitely want to read All in Her Hands. It's absorbing and fascinating and well worth a read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an advanced copy of this book.
This historical fiction novel is a very interesting story about women entering the medical profession in the mid-1800's when it is definitely not the norm. Dr. Nora Gibson is the only female surgeon in London and helps run a hospital alongside her husband and other colleagues. She has the privilege to help bring several babies into the world, and through that process gets to know several local midwives who have a vast knowledge and understanding of how to help the mothers that they work with. Nora becomes a big advocate for the midwives and desires to help provide them additional training. Society is not open to this idea and Nora faces backlash from colleagues, family members, and the local community. While this is happening, a cholera epidemic sweeps through the area and the patient count rises faster than they can handle. Her stamina and own health as a doctor is tested as more and more fall ill.
This historical fiction novel is a very interesting story about women entering the medical profession in the mid-1800's when it is definitely not the norm. Dr. Nora Gibson is the only female surgeon in London and helps run a hospital alongside her husband and other colleagues. She has the privilege to help bring several babies into the world, and through that process gets to know several local midwives who have a vast knowledge and understanding of how to help the mothers that they work with. Nora becomes a big advocate for the midwives and desires to help provide them additional training. Society is not open to this idea and Nora faces backlash from colleagues, family members, and the local community. While this is happening, a cholera epidemic sweeps through the area and the patient count rises faster than they can handle. Her stamina and own health as a doctor is tested as more and more fall ill.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
✨I just went on the most epic historical women’s fiction binge, and I’m not even sorry.
Reading All in Her Hands, The Woman and Her Stars, Sweetbitter Song, and The Hope Keeper back-to-back reminded me why I love stories about women carving out their own destinies. From Dr. Nora Gibson fighting cholera in 1849 London, to Caroline Herschel defying societal limits and finding her place among the stars, to Melantho and Penelope’s forbidden love in ancient Greece, to Elisabeth Beaumont navigating the glittering danger of D.C.’s elite and the Hope Diamond, these books were packed with courage, passion, and resilience. Each story left me inspired, emotional, and utterly captivated by women refusing to be confined by the rules, expectations, or tragedies of their worlds.
✨️Thank you Sourcebooks Landmark, Heather Webb, Rosie Hewlett, Penny Haw, Audrey Blake and Netgalley for sharing these books with us!
Reading All in Her Hands, The Woman and Her Stars, Sweetbitter Song, and The Hope Keeper back-to-back reminded me why I love stories about women carving out their own destinies. From Dr. Nora Gibson fighting cholera in 1849 London, to Caroline Herschel defying societal limits and finding her place among the stars, to Melantho and Penelope’s forbidden love in ancient Greece, to Elisabeth Beaumont navigating the glittering danger of D.C.’s elite and the Hope Diamond, these books were packed with courage, passion, and resilience. Each story left me inspired, emotional, and utterly captivated by women refusing to be confined by the rules, expectations, or tragedies of their worlds.
✨️Thank you Sourcebooks Landmark, Heather Webb, Rosie Hewlett, Penny Haw, Audrey Blake and Netgalley for sharing these books with us!
November 7, 2025
All in Her Hands
By: Audrey Blake
Pub date: Feb 24, 2026
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
5🩺🩺🩺🩺🩺
1849-This was my first book by this author and her writing is beautiful. I was completely invested in Dr. Norma Gibsons story. She was the only female surgeon in London.
🩺
She works with midwives as an epidemic spreads. Midwives were fighting for their place in the medical world, and Dr. Norma was championing for their help and getting them recognized in the medical field.
🩺
She delivered babies during the toughest of times. Cholera was spreading fast and she was trying to save people. She is also fighting prejudices and her past to help with this disease.
A moving novel and I enjoyed her story. I had no idea until the author notes that this was Book #3, so I will be looking to read those too.
By: Audrey Blake
Pub date: Feb 24, 2026
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
5🩺🩺🩺🩺🩺
1849-This was my first book by this author and her writing is beautiful. I was completely invested in Dr. Norma Gibsons story. She was the only female surgeon in London.
🩺
She works with midwives as an epidemic spreads. Midwives were fighting for their place in the medical world, and Dr. Norma was championing for their help and getting them recognized in the medical field.
🩺
She delivered babies during the toughest of times. Cholera was spreading fast and she was trying to save people. She is also fighting prejudices and her past to help with this disease.
A moving novel and I enjoyed her story. I had no idea until the author notes that this was Book #3, so I will be looking to read those too.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was so excited for this book - a female doctor in London in the 1840s, an epidemic, and a fight for midwives. Sounds like an incredible read. Unfortunately, it just felt flat and boring to me. I was honestly bored during parts of the book, but on the other hand I enjoyed the historical aspect and the research into the time. I think I wanted a little more drama to the story, but even the dramatic parts felt bland. I loved that this book was focused on women in medicine during a time when that rarely happened. I thought that the emotions running were real, the characters were not over done. I thought that their place and fight felt real and believable. I just think I wanted the pace to move a little faster and there to be more oomph to the storyline. If you enjoy historical fiction, this is an interesting topic to read about. Thank you netgalley for my advanced reader copy.
December 20, 2025
This novel continues the story of Dr. Nora Gibson as she manages life as a newly-wed and the only female surgeon in England. Friction increases as she tries to collaborate with midwives in her medical practice. Dr Nora’s growth into a confident physician and a willing student of others expertise is satisfying. The obstacles a female physician faced at that time were formidable and vividly brought to life in this book. The interpersonal relationships of all those living at 43 Great Queen St brought warmth, empathy and some levity to the story. (There is a cameo or two by Dr Horace’s pet wombat!) Absolutely loved this book-well-researched, compelling, fascinating and human. Definitely recommend!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and Net Galley for the chance to read and review this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I have enjoyed this whole series written by Audrey Blake. This story takes place in 1849 London. Dr. Nora Gibson is now the only female surgeon in England. She is running the Great Queen Street Hospital with her husband Daniel and other medical personnel. She is fighting a battle to educate midwives so they can become partners in the medical field. The doctors are also facing a cholera epidemic. This book is so interesting-I learned a lot about early medical treatments. It is also a series that keeps your attention-very well-written with realistic characters. I highly recommend this book.
I have enjoyed this whole series written by Audrey Blake. This story takes place in 1849 London. Dr. Nora Gibson is now the only female surgeon in England. She is running the Great Queen Street Hospital with her husband Daniel and other medical personnel. She is fighting a battle to educate midwives so they can become partners in the medical field. The doctors are also facing a cholera epidemic. This book is so interesting-I learned a lot about early medical treatments. It is also a series that keeps your attention-very well-written with realistic characters. I highly recommend this book.
November 11, 2025
This novel is a compelling blend of personal struggle and an intense public health crisis, as Nora battles both the rampant sexism of the medical field and a deadly cholera epidemic. The writing is superb, offering a vivid and atmospheric portrayal of Victorian London, and the characters are so richly drawn they feel like old friends. Nora's determination and fight to legitimize midwives and save lives against all odds is truly inspiring. The pacing is perfect, building tension and delivering a deeply emotional and satisfying conclusion that lingers long after the final page. I couldn't put it down and highly recommend this brilliant, heartfelt read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Audrey Blake has delivered a fantastic page turner in All in Her Hands. I love historical fiction, medicine, and midwifery. So put all three together and it was a trifecta! The character development was great. The story line of a cholera outbreak and Nora’s struggles as a female doctor in a male dominated medical field drew me in immediately and kept me captivated. I didn’t want this one to end! I was pleased to find out that this is the third book by Blake about Nora but this book stood completely on its own. I look forward to reading the previous 2 books and would definitely welcome another to continue Nora’s story.
November 8, 2025
I read this as a stand alone and it worked very well. There were enough glimpses into the back story to make the plot flow evenly.
What I did find though, is that the content on birthing in the first quarter of the novel was a little too in depth for my liking. But that is a purely subjective note.
Otherwise, a very well written and strongly researched novel that highlights the plight of women breaking into medicine in the 19th century and the challenges faced by those affected by one of the major cholera epidemics of the times.
Recommended as a stand alone
What I did find though, is that the content on birthing in the first quarter of the novel was a little too in depth for my liking. But that is a purely subjective note.
Otherwise, a very well written and strongly researched novel that highlights the plight of women breaking into medicine in the 19th century and the challenges faced by those affected by one of the major cholera epidemics of the times.
Recommended as a stand alone
November 19, 2025
This is a beautifully written historical novel that drew me in right away. Audrey Blake does a great job balancing rich period detail with a character who feels honest, determined, and easy to root for. I especially enjoyed how the story highlights her strength while still showing her vulnerability. A couple of moments felt a bit rushed, but overall it’s an engaging, heartfelt read that stayed with me long after I finished.
📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, Audrey Blake and SOURCEBOOKS Landmark📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚
📚I was able to read an advanced copy of title thanks to NetGalley, Audrey Blake and SOURCEBOOKS Landmark📚
📚All reviews and opinions are entirely my own📚
November 22, 2025
I have read one other book by Audrey Blake featuring Dr Nora Beady and this one was just as enjoyable. In this story Nora is championing midwives and attempting to get the male dominated medical establishment to acknowledge their knowledge and skills. As with The girl in his shadow, there are graphic medical procedures, so if you’re squeamish, this may not be the book for you. But mostly it demonstrates how hard women in medicine have had to fight to be recognised as equal to their male colleagues. Much of it is based on real historical facts, this is a story you won’t want to put down.
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