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Liberty Street
Not yet published
Expected 24 Feb 26From #1 bestselling Canadian author Heather Marshall (Looking for Jane) comes a riveting, page-turning and intertwining story of two women whose destinies are linked over decades.
Toronto, 1961: Emily Radcliffe works as an editorial assistant at Chatelaine magazine, surrounded by a group of the best women journalists in the country, whose articles tackle the controversial topics no other women’s publication dares to touch. When a bombshell letter lands on Emily’s desk from an inmate at the notorious Mercer Women’s Prison, Emily sees a scoop that could launch her career as a real, hard-boiled journalist like the colleagues she admires. After convincing her boss to let her cover the story, Emily goes undercover in the prison to learn whether the shocking claims in the inmate’s letter are true. But what she doesn’t know is that getting into the prison will turn out to be the easy part; it’s getting back out that will be difficult.
Huron County, 1996: Rachel Jamieson spends her days working at a small-town cemetery, alone amid the peace and quiet. As an anxious and introverted person, the solitude of the job suits her just fine. But when one of her staff stumbles across an unmarked grave containing the remains of a woman in an old prison uniform, Rachel’s work takes a sinister turn. While she assists the police in uncovering the woman’s identity and how she came to be buried in a secret unmarked grave, trauma from Rachel’s past threatens to surface from where she’s kept it carefully hidden.
Inspired by the real-life Toronto women’s prison that was the first of its kind in Canada, as well as true figures and events, Liberty Street vividly brings to life the historic treatment of mentally ill and incarcerated women while shining a light on the dark realities of various ‘prisons’ that hold women captive.
Toronto, 1961: Emily Radcliffe works as an editorial assistant at Chatelaine magazine, surrounded by a group of the best women journalists in the country, whose articles tackle the controversial topics no other women’s publication dares to touch. When a bombshell letter lands on Emily’s desk from an inmate at the notorious Mercer Women’s Prison, Emily sees a scoop that could launch her career as a real, hard-boiled journalist like the colleagues she admires. After convincing her boss to let her cover the story, Emily goes undercover in the prison to learn whether the shocking claims in the inmate’s letter are true. But what she doesn’t know is that getting into the prison will turn out to be the easy part; it’s getting back out that will be difficult.
Huron County, 1996: Rachel Jamieson spends her days working at a small-town cemetery, alone amid the peace and quiet. As an anxious and introverted person, the solitude of the job suits her just fine. But when one of her staff stumbles across an unmarked grave containing the remains of a woman in an old prison uniform, Rachel’s work takes a sinister turn. While she assists the police in uncovering the woman’s identity and how she came to be buried in a secret unmarked grave, trauma from Rachel’s past threatens to surface from where she’s kept it carefully hidden.
Inspired by the real-life Toronto women’s prison that was the first of its kind in Canada, as well as true figures and events, Liberty Street vividly brings to life the historic treatment of mentally ill and incarcerated women while shining a light on the dark realities of various ‘prisons’ that hold women captive.
400 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 24, 2026
2541 people want to read
About the author
Heather Marshall
3 books1,346 followersHeather Marshall lives with her family near Toronto. She worked in politics and communications before turning her attention to her true passion: storytelling. Her debut novel Looking for Jane was an instant #1 bestseller. Visit HeatherMarshallAuthor.com or connect on Instagram @heathermarshallauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 28, 2025
Utterly captivating. I found myself sneaking extra pages in whenever I could. Heather Marshall writes with urgency and passion about the injustices placed on women's lives and weaves it into a story that will latch onto your mind, with characters so real you'll want to reach through the pages to shout at them, but also to ache and cry and root for them. It's said often, and maybe too easily, but in this case I believe it to be true: This book is a triumph. Heather Marshall is a dedicated champion of women's rights, revealing the hard truths behind untold women's stories.
November 3, 2025
FABULOUS. No notes 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻Heather Marshall delivers another Canadian History hit set in the same 1960s universe as Looking for Jane with some fun crossovers but a completely different focus on a little known Toronto women’s reformatory.
This one is for the Nelly Bly and Orange is the new black fans and anyone who loves Genevieve Graham stories. Told in dual timeline structure, Liberty Street follows the mystery of a body discovered in 1990s Huron County and how one woman police detective’s investigation leads her to 1960s Toronto and the life of Emily Radcliffe, a young Chatelaine assistant who goes undercover as a girl stunt reporter for a story about the Female Refuges Act and the deplorable conditions of the Mercer Women’s Prison.
I couldn’t put this down and I can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next! HUGE thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Canada for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!!
This one is for the Nelly Bly and Orange is the new black fans and anyone who loves Genevieve Graham stories. Told in dual timeline structure, Liberty Street follows the mystery of a body discovered in 1990s Huron County and how one woman police detective’s investigation leads her to 1960s Toronto and the life of Emily Radcliffe, a young Chatelaine assistant who goes undercover as a girl stunt reporter for a story about the Female Refuges Act and the deplorable conditions of the Mercer Women’s Prison.
I couldn’t put this down and I can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next! HUGE thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Canada for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an advanced copy from the publisher in trade for a fair review. I entered the book give away on Goodreads. I am so excited to finally receive a book to review.
I wanted to know if the characters in the book were fictionalized or real people, so I started at the end where the references and acknowledgments are written. I found this very interesting to learn how the author was inspired to write the book and her research into obtaining the information and the actual accounts of women's abuses under the laws at the time. There are two real characters mentioned in the story, Nellie Bly an undercover reporter exposing injustices in a women’s prison in the USA, Doris Anderson, editor of Chatelaine Magazine in the nineteen-sixties.
The story was two fold, one with Emily Radcliffe, a burgeoning author for Chatelaine Magazine,, excited to get the scoop that would solidify her career in 1961, as an undercover reporter at Mercer Women's prison and one of a
female police detective, Rachel Mackenzie finding a Jane Dough in an unmarked grave in 1996 at Millgate Cemetery where after much investigation bring Emily and Rachel together to share a sad but true story and bring closure to a family.
In the story we go from Emily's undercover story during her imprisonment learning about some of the injustices done to her fellow inmates and Rachel's story regarding the case of the unmarked grave but also of Rachel's life living with her grandmother Dora and her mother Mary who was unstable and would drop in once a year to "visit".
Some of the women in the Mercer's prison were locked up because of mental illness (post partum depression)(domestic violence), prostitution, under age petty theft, inter -racial children, teen pregnancy, women having too many children with different fathers, gender identity, being a lesbian, being incorrigible (Emily's case for admittance). The only way to be released was approval from the doctor who was Iris Stone. It was often denied.
While Emily was in the Mercer prison, she made friends with inmates to find out information for her story but over time these women’s lives mattered to her, and she forged some interesting friends. After her experience there she was no longer the idealistic young woman, but a woman damaged that had to fight anxiety and post traumatic stress seeking therapy. Yes, this experience helped her in her writing career, but at what cost to her soul?
Rachel MacKenzie, police detective investigating the Jane Dough has issues with her own family history regarding mental illness. She lived with her mother who was unstable, who drank and did drugs and had various affairs with different men. She ended up living with her Grandmother Dora and they both endured her mother’s visits every summer. There was some tragedy that occurred that people still talk about. It is a mystery until near the end of the story. This kept me turning the pages to find out what happened. As you read you can really empathize with Rachel and her grandmother.
Rachel is an objective detective always following the evidence. She excelled in math and science in school and liked absolutes. She is a likeable character. She was lucky to have a good mentor on the force, Detective Stevens. In the story her partner is Officer Stevens, the nephew of her retired mentor. They work together to piece together the unidentified corpse, solve a mystery and help a family member bring closure after 30 years.
I believe what this Historical Fiction account is trying to teach society is to understand abuse and the injustices to women of the past from 1880 - 1961 based on society's current and past beliefs on what is just; regarding women's sexuality, mental health as well as criminal activity. Many of these laws were based on misogynistic legislation, old beliefs regarding women's mental health and many laws regarding marriage and the rights of husbands and fathers. Basically, this story is about the worst abuses women have endured under the law while incarcerated. This is why the telling of women's stories is so important and the freedom to tell them.
I wanted to know if the characters in the book were fictionalized or real people, so I started at the end where the references and acknowledgments are written. I found this very interesting to learn how the author was inspired to write the book and her research into obtaining the information and the actual accounts of women's abuses under the laws at the time. There are two real characters mentioned in the story, Nellie Bly an undercover reporter exposing injustices in a women’s prison in the USA, Doris Anderson, editor of Chatelaine Magazine in the nineteen-sixties.
The story was two fold, one with Emily Radcliffe, a burgeoning author for Chatelaine Magazine,, excited to get the scoop that would solidify her career in 1961, as an undercover reporter at Mercer Women's prison and one of a
female police detective, Rachel Mackenzie finding a Jane Dough in an unmarked grave in 1996 at Millgate Cemetery where after much investigation bring Emily and Rachel together to share a sad but true story and bring closure to a family.
In the story we go from Emily's undercover story during her imprisonment learning about some of the injustices done to her fellow inmates and Rachel's story regarding the case of the unmarked grave but also of Rachel's life living with her grandmother Dora and her mother Mary who was unstable and would drop in once a year to "visit".
Some of the women in the Mercer's prison were locked up because of mental illness (post partum depression)(domestic violence), prostitution, under age petty theft, inter -racial children, teen pregnancy, women having too many children with different fathers, gender identity, being a lesbian, being incorrigible (Emily's case for admittance). The only way to be released was approval from the doctor who was Iris Stone. It was often denied.
While Emily was in the Mercer prison, she made friends with inmates to find out information for her story but over time these women’s lives mattered to her, and she forged some interesting friends. After her experience there she was no longer the idealistic young woman, but a woman damaged that had to fight anxiety and post traumatic stress seeking therapy. Yes, this experience helped her in her writing career, but at what cost to her soul?
Rachel MacKenzie, police detective investigating the Jane Dough has issues with her own family history regarding mental illness. She lived with her mother who was unstable, who drank and did drugs and had various affairs with different men. She ended up living with her Grandmother Dora and they both endured her mother’s visits every summer. There was some tragedy that occurred that people still talk about. It is a mystery until near the end of the story. This kept me turning the pages to find out what happened. As you read you can really empathize with Rachel and her grandmother.
Rachel is an objective detective always following the evidence. She excelled in math and science in school and liked absolutes. She is a likeable character. She was lucky to have a good mentor on the force, Detective Stevens. In the story her partner is Officer Stevens, the nephew of her retired mentor. They work together to piece together the unidentified corpse, solve a mystery and help a family member bring closure after 30 years.
I believe what this Historical Fiction account is trying to teach society is to understand abuse and the injustices to women of the past from 1880 - 1961 based on society's current and past beliefs on what is just; regarding women's sexuality, mental health as well as criminal activity. Many of these laws were based on misogynistic legislation, old beliefs regarding women's mental health and many laws regarding marriage and the rights of husbands and fathers. Basically, this story is about the worst abuses women have endured under the law while incarcerated. This is why the telling of women's stories is so important and the freedom to tell them.
January 26, 2026
Wow, I absolutely loved this one!
I really enjoyed reading about the history of my province and the horrible things that happened in the 60s as well as the outlet Chatelaine was for women, at a time of suppression.
From the very beginning, you are rooting for Emily Radcliffe’s character, an aspiring journalist, wanting to succeed and expose the malpractice, illegal medical procedures and drug experimentation happening in the Mercer Women’s prison. The entire story was captivating, heartbreaking and eye opening. I read about similar experiences in university but to think about this happening so close to home was disturbing. Although the beginning was a little slow, once the undercover mission started, I was itching to pick up this book any chance I got.
If you’re looking for a captivating women’s historical fiction, this is it. I’ll be recommending it everyone and I feel so lucky to have stumbled upon it on Netgalley. A huge thank you to Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley for an e-arc!
I really enjoyed reading about the history of my province and the horrible things that happened in the 60s as well as the outlet Chatelaine was for women, at a time of suppression.
From the very beginning, you are rooting for Emily Radcliffe’s character, an aspiring journalist, wanting to succeed and expose the malpractice, illegal medical procedures and drug experimentation happening in the Mercer Women’s prison. The entire story was captivating, heartbreaking and eye opening. I read about similar experiences in university but to think about this happening so close to home was disturbing. Although the beginning was a little slow, once the undercover mission started, I was itching to pick up this book any chance I got.
If you’re looking for a captivating women’s historical fiction, this is it. I’ll be recommending it everyone and I feel so lucky to have stumbled upon it on Netgalley. A huge thank you to Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley for an e-arc!
January 24, 2026
Heather Marshall has once again knocked it out of the park with Liberty Street. The research that goes into her writing is top-notch and while the circumstances surrounding the story itself is both infuriating and devastating it is also so captivating and well written. Heather Marshall has told another important story inspired by true events in Canadian history. With a dual timeline set in 1961 and 1996, in 1961 we meet Emily Radcliffe who is working as an editorial assistant at Chatelaine magazine and the magazine is tackling controversial stories that no other women’s publications are prepared to touch. Emily learns through a letter about the deplorable conditions at the Mercer Women’s Prison and goes undercover to investigate the claims. In 1996, we meet Detective Rachel Mackenzie who is tasked with unravelling the mystery when human remains are discovered in an unmarked grave in a small-town cemetery. Which leads to the Detective learning about the Mercer Women’s Prison.
This is the first time I heard of the Female Refuges Act and really appreciate the author for continuing to tell these types of stories as they play an important role in championing human rights and serve as a reminder to the reader of the injustices that happened in the not so distance past.
Thank you to the publisher Penguin Random House Canada (Adult) | Doubleday Canada, NetGalley and the author for an eARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first time I heard of the Female Refuges Act and really appreciate the author for continuing to tell these types of stories as they play an important role in championing human rights and serve as a reminder to the reader of the injustices that happened in the not so distance past.
Thank you to the publisher Penguin Random House Canada (Adult) | Doubleday Canada, NetGalley and the author for an eARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2026
Heather Marshall proved once again that she’s a fantastic writer and storyteller with this new novel. “Liberty Street” is such an excellent novel I didn’t want to put it down! Highly recommend!
January 4, 2026
REVIEW TO COME
December 6, 2025
Heather Marshall delivers an absolutely captivating novel. She has quickly become one of my favourite authors, and her books are always a must-read. Liberty Street is a dual-timeline story about courage, truth, and the silencing of women in the early 1960s—and their fight to finally be heard.
The narrative shifts between Emily in the early ’60s and Rachel in the ’90s. Emily, a reporter for Chatelaine, goes undercover in Toronto’s Mercer Women’s Prison to expose the deplorable conditions and mistreatment of the women held there. Getting into the prison is the easy part; getting out is far more dangerous. Rachel, a detective in the 1990s, is trying to solve a case involving women’s remains discovered in an unmarked grave, with clues leading back to the old prison. As the investigation unfolds, Rachel must confront her own painful history.
Both women carry deep trauma, and the novel explores their courage and resilience as they face horrific circumstances. I loved that the story is rooted in real events, and I found it a compelling, powerful read. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Canada for an advanced copy of this book.
The narrative shifts between Emily in the early ’60s and Rachel in the ’90s. Emily, a reporter for Chatelaine, goes undercover in Toronto’s Mercer Women’s Prison to expose the deplorable conditions and mistreatment of the women held there. Getting into the prison is the easy part; getting out is far more dangerous. Rachel, a detective in the 1990s, is trying to solve a case involving women’s remains discovered in an unmarked grave, with clues leading back to the old prison. As the investigation unfolds, Rachel must confront her own painful history.
Both women carry deep trauma, and the novel explores their courage and resilience as they face horrific circumstances. I loved that the story is rooted in real events, and I found it a compelling, powerful read. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Canada for an advanced copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A very good story, historical fiction in fact, about an actual Women's institution in Toronto and the abuses that occurred there. A parallel story line one taking place years later, eventually dovetails to a conclusion and the solving of a mystery.
The author strongly highlights the way women were (mis)treated as second class citizens and the misunderstanding of mental health issues.
The conclusion gets a little maudlin at times, but this will undoubtedly be a popular book upon its release. (I was provided with an ARC by the publisher)
The author strongly highlights the way women were (mis)treated as second class citizens and the misunderstanding of mental health issues.
The conclusion gets a little maudlin at times, but this will undoubtedly be a popular book upon its release. (I was provided with an ARC by the publisher)
November 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this book.
November 9, 2025
Incredible!! Heather Marshall is a national treasure.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Liberty Street by Heather Marshall
Publishing February 24th, 2026 in Canada by Doubleday Canada
Publishing June 16, 2026 in US by Random House Publishing
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars - LOVED reading this
What do you do when you know you have just finished your favourite book of the year on January 2nd?
I’ve never experienced this overwhelming concern that any review I write of this novel will never convey just how good this book is. With that said, there is a good chance I may continue editing my review to give it the recognition and the credit it so deserves.
I spent the week reading this book suffering an internal struggle, warring between taking my time to enjoy what I knew from the get go was going to be an incredible book, to desperately wanting to get to the conclusion and read the Author’s Note.
Heather Marshall’s books continue to be so well researched, so captivating, so devastating, so infuriating and so beautifully written. She writes in three different timelines in this novel, each one as interesting as the next. So often in multi-timeline novels, I rush through one decade or storyline to get to another, but with Heather Marshall’s books - she gives you enough intrigue, mystery and suspense in each storyline, as well as connection with each main character, that leaves you happy to return to each storyline and learn more and to figure out how they will eventually connect and intersect. It’s also always so fun to read about places I’ve been to and even a mention of the city I’m from!
📖 Rachel is a Detective on Lake Huron, Ontario in the mid 90’s with her share of skeletons from her past, when she’s called to a cemetery to investigate an unmarked grave with female remains found in an enumerated cemetery plot.
In 1961, Emily is an editorial assistant at Chatelaine magazine, a magazine for women, largely ignored by men and the more respected male magazine company that owns it. The cover shares articles about lipsticks, recipes and place settings - the makings of a good housewife, while the inside attempts to open women’s eyes and minds to more controversial topics. When a letter from an inmate at Mercer Women’s Prison lands in Emily’s hands, detailing the terrible conditions, mistreatment and abuse the inmates suffer, as well as the Incorrigible law, a law that can place any women in jail for very little reason with zero evidence, she knows its up to her to go undercover and break this story. Getting into jail ends up being quite easy, getting out is a different story that only she can tell.
I widely recommend this book, especially for those who loved Looking for Jane, like I did.
Who else would love this?
* Readers who loved Looking for Jane, Heathers debut novel.
* Readers who love historical fiction
* Readers who love reading about the fight for women’s rights
* Readers who love intersecting multiple timelines
* Readers who love to learn something
Thank you to Doubleday Canada, Heather Marshall and Netgalley for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Publishing February 24th, 2026 in Canada by Doubleday Canada
Publishing June 16, 2026 in US by Random House Publishing
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars - LOVED reading this
What do you do when you know you have just finished your favourite book of the year on January 2nd?
I’ve never experienced this overwhelming concern that any review I write of this novel will never convey just how good this book is. With that said, there is a good chance I may continue editing my review to give it the recognition and the credit it so deserves.
I spent the week reading this book suffering an internal struggle, warring between taking my time to enjoy what I knew from the get go was going to be an incredible book, to desperately wanting to get to the conclusion and read the Author’s Note.
Heather Marshall’s books continue to be so well researched, so captivating, so devastating, so infuriating and so beautifully written. She writes in three different timelines in this novel, each one as interesting as the next. So often in multi-timeline novels, I rush through one decade or storyline to get to another, but with Heather Marshall’s books - she gives you enough intrigue, mystery and suspense in each storyline, as well as connection with each main character, that leaves you happy to return to each storyline and learn more and to figure out how they will eventually connect and intersect. It’s also always so fun to read about places I’ve been to and even a mention of the city I’m from!
📖 Rachel is a Detective on Lake Huron, Ontario in the mid 90’s with her share of skeletons from her past, when she’s called to a cemetery to investigate an unmarked grave with female remains found in an enumerated cemetery plot.
In 1961, Emily is an editorial assistant at Chatelaine magazine, a magazine for women, largely ignored by men and the more respected male magazine company that owns it. The cover shares articles about lipsticks, recipes and place settings - the makings of a good housewife, while the inside attempts to open women’s eyes and minds to more controversial topics. When a letter from an inmate at Mercer Women’s Prison lands in Emily’s hands, detailing the terrible conditions, mistreatment and abuse the inmates suffer, as well as the Incorrigible law, a law that can place any women in jail for very little reason with zero evidence, she knows its up to her to go undercover and break this story. Getting into jail ends up being quite easy, getting out is a different story that only she can tell.
I widely recommend this book, especially for those who loved Looking for Jane, like I did.
Who else would love this?
* Readers who loved Looking for Jane, Heathers debut novel.
* Readers who love historical fiction
* Readers who love reading about the fight for women’s rights
* Readers who love intersecting multiple timelines
* Readers who love to learn something
Thank you to Doubleday Canada, Heather Marshall and Netgalley for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book. This is a must read, and I couldn’t recommend it more.
I don’t even know where to start with how unbelievably good this book was, and how it drew me in to the point that I was rushing home to read as much as I could. I certainly wanted to know how it ended, but all of the detail in the story was equally as intriguing as the desire to know how things turned out.
The book is two separate story lines- Emily, who is a reporter in the 1960’s and pursuing a story about a women’s prison, and Rachel who is a detective in the 1990’s pursuing a case about a body being found. I won’t go into a significant amount of detail because I think that it is good to go into a book knowing broad strokes about the issues, but really allowing yourself to get lost in the story along the way.
I’ve never read any of Heather Marshall’s other books, but I will certainly be exploring her backlist now. The way she weaves a truly engaging story with historical detail was so enthralling that it pushed me to explore more about the prison featured in the book.
I thought the characters were equally as engaging. I found myself enjoying each of the time periods, and thought that the author did a good job of mingling two very different time periods together while still drawing similarities between them. Sometimes when there is a dual storyline, I find myself drawn more to one than the other, but in this case I liked both female leads and thought they each had a good balance of ingratiating traits and relatable flaws.
This book is about feminism, women’s rights, but also human rights and what people are willing to turn a blind eye to. It also highlights parenting and the complex relationships women navigate with each other, with the workplace, and with society in general. It is thought-provoking while still being a genuinely good story.
I would highly recommend this book to others, and will certainly be giving it to people in my life once it is released. This would be a great read for a book club because there is so much to discuss in it.
I am happy to give this book 5 stars, and I truly hope it makes it’s way onto bestseller lists.
Thank you to NetGalley and DoubleDay Canada for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review.
I don’t even know where to start with how unbelievably good this book was, and how it drew me in to the point that I was rushing home to read as much as I could. I certainly wanted to know how it ended, but all of the detail in the story was equally as intriguing as the desire to know how things turned out.
The book is two separate story lines- Emily, who is a reporter in the 1960’s and pursuing a story about a women’s prison, and Rachel who is a detective in the 1990’s pursuing a case about a body being found. I won’t go into a significant amount of detail because I think that it is good to go into a book knowing broad strokes about the issues, but really allowing yourself to get lost in the story along the way.
I’ve never read any of Heather Marshall’s other books, but I will certainly be exploring her backlist now. The way she weaves a truly engaging story with historical detail was so enthralling that it pushed me to explore more about the prison featured in the book.
I thought the characters were equally as engaging. I found myself enjoying each of the time periods, and thought that the author did a good job of mingling two very different time periods together while still drawing similarities between them. Sometimes when there is a dual storyline, I find myself drawn more to one than the other, but in this case I liked both female leads and thought they each had a good balance of ingratiating traits and relatable flaws.
This book is about feminism, women’s rights, but also human rights and what people are willing to turn a blind eye to. It also highlights parenting and the complex relationships women navigate with each other, with the workplace, and with society in general. It is thought-provoking while still being a genuinely good story.
I would highly recommend this book to others, and will certainly be giving it to people in my life once it is released. This would be a great read for a book club because there is so much to discuss in it.
I am happy to give this book 5 stars, and I truly hope it makes it’s way onto bestseller lists.
Thank you to NetGalley and DoubleDay Canada for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Fight for Women’s Voices Behind Bars
Heather Marshall’s Liberty Street is the kind of novel that grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go. Set in motion by a mysterious letter, young journalist Emily plunges undercover into the grim world of Mercer Women’s Prison in the 1960s. As she digs into rumours of abuse, Marshall braids her fate with that of a modern-day detective, whose investigation decades later unearths the truths Emily risked everything to expose.
The heart of the book is Emily, a gutsy and unyielding crusader for women who’ve been all but erased by a system more interested in punishment than in healing. Around her, the cast pulses with life: fellow inmates, each carrying scars and secrets, and a detective piecing together Emily’s legacy long after the headlines have faded. Marshall’s empathy runs deep, painting not just the literal prison walls but the invisible ones society builds around women’s autonomy and dignity.
Marshall doesn’t pull punches. The novel tackles state power, mental health, and the generational toll of trauma, all without ever feeling preachy. The dual timelines work in harmony, echoing the way injustice lingers, refusing to stay buried. Her prose is crisp, her pacing relentless, and the emotional stakes stay high throughout. Readers will like how seamlessly Marshall weaves past and present, and how her characters leap off the page.
What makes Liberty Street stand out is its grounding in real history and its insistence that these stories matter. Yes, the subject matter is tough, sometimes heartbreakingly so. The cruelty depicted is real, and the narrative doesn’t flinch, but the storytelling remains compassionate and cathartic. If there’s a downside, it’s that the emotional weight and shifting timelines demand your full attention, but the payoff is more than worth it.
Liberty Street isn’t just a novel about the past; it’s a call to remember, to resist, and to honour the women who dared to speak up when it mattered most. For anyone drawn to historical fiction with teeth, this book is essential reading.
Rating: 3.5/5
Heather Marshall’s Liberty Street is the kind of novel that grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go. Set in motion by a mysterious letter, young journalist Emily plunges undercover into the grim world of Mercer Women’s Prison in the 1960s. As she digs into rumours of abuse, Marshall braids her fate with that of a modern-day detective, whose investigation decades later unearths the truths Emily risked everything to expose.
The heart of the book is Emily, a gutsy and unyielding crusader for women who’ve been all but erased by a system more interested in punishment than in healing. Around her, the cast pulses with life: fellow inmates, each carrying scars and secrets, and a detective piecing together Emily’s legacy long after the headlines have faded. Marshall’s empathy runs deep, painting not just the literal prison walls but the invisible ones society builds around women’s autonomy and dignity.
Marshall doesn’t pull punches. The novel tackles state power, mental health, and the generational toll of trauma, all without ever feeling preachy. The dual timelines work in harmony, echoing the way injustice lingers, refusing to stay buried. Her prose is crisp, her pacing relentless, and the emotional stakes stay high throughout. Readers will like how seamlessly Marshall weaves past and present, and how her characters leap off the page.
What makes Liberty Street stand out is its grounding in real history and its insistence that these stories matter. Yes, the subject matter is tough, sometimes heartbreakingly so. The cruelty depicted is real, and the narrative doesn’t flinch, but the storytelling remains compassionate and cathartic. If there’s a downside, it’s that the emotional weight and shifting timelines demand your full attention, but the payoff is more than worth it.
Liberty Street isn’t just a novel about the past; it’s a call to remember, to resist, and to honour the women who dared to speak up when it mattered most. For anyone drawn to historical fiction with teeth, this book is essential reading.
Rating: 3.5/5
January 29, 2026
Three Canadian books in one month? I am doing well on my resolution to read more books set in Canada or by Canadian authors. Liberty Street is fiction but inspired by true events surrounding women's prisons and reformatories in the 60s. Different plot, but it reminds me of The Silent Ones by Anna McPartlin which has similar themes of women's rights in 1980s Ireland.
Toronto's Andrew Mercer Reformatory and Prison saw women sent there without trials for "undesirable" social behaviour. It could be anything from drinking, children out of wedlock, mental health issues or actual crimes. The women held there were often subjected to involuntary medical procedures and testing, abuse and more.
Liberty Street starts in 1961 when these institutions were already facing scrutiny before the Female Refuges Act was repealed in 1964. The book has bit of a slow start as we follow Emily on her daily life working at Chatelaine and deciding her future. But really picks up about 25% in when she goes undercover at Mercer. After that, it is a real page turner and something I suggest all women read because even now, there are people would would have us go back to these days. It is a reminder of the price women paid for the freedoms we now have and should fight to keep.
The book has three timelines, Emily in the 60s, the discovery of a body in an unmarked grave in the 90s and the childhood of the detective investigating that case. I am not always the biggest fan of multiple timelines and started to wonder where we were going with the detective's childhood but it does all make sense in the end and the timelines work for this book. Without spoiling it, I wish we could have seen a little more of the fallout of Emily's time in the prison. The book covers it but only in passing.
Content warnings for pretty much everything. Liberty Street is dark with themes of generational trauma, women's rights (or lack of them), mental health, involuntary medical testing, racism, abortion and postpartum depression/psychosis, trans/homophobia, abuse and more.
Thanks to Doubleday Canada for the advance copy to review through Netgalley
Toronto's Andrew Mercer Reformatory and Prison saw women sent there without trials for "undesirable" social behaviour. It could be anything from drinking, children out of wedlock, mental health issues or actual crimes. The women held there were often subjected to involuntary medical procedures and testing, abuse and more.
Liberty Street starts in 1961 when these institutions were already facing scrutiny before the Female Refuges Act was repealed in 1964. The book has bit of a slow start as we follow Emily on her daily life working at Chatelaine and deciding her future. But really picks up about 25% in when she goes undercover at Mercer. After that, it is a real page turner and something I suggest all women read because even now, there are people would would have us go back to these days. It is a reminder of the price women paid for the freedoms we now have and should fight to keep.
The book has three timelines, Emily in the 60s, the discovery of a body in an unmarked grave in the 90s and the childhood of the detective investigating that case. I am not always the biggest fan of multiple timelines and started to wonder where we were going with the detective's childhood but it does all make sense in the end and the timelines work for this book. Without spoiling it, I wish we could have seen a little more of the fallout of Emily's time in the prison. The book covers it but only in passing.
Content warnings for pretty much everything. Liberty Street is dark with themes of generational trauma, women's rights (or lack of them), mental health, involuntary medical testing, racism, abortion and postpartum depression/psychosis, trans/homophobia, abuse and more.
Thanks to Doubleday Canada for the advance copy to review through Netgalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Inspired by true events, Liberty Street is a haunting and unforgettable novel that kept me reading well past my usual bedtime.
Following the recommendation of another reader, I read the Author’s Notes at the back of the book first -- something I almost never do. This kept the unimaginable realities behind this story front and center throughout my reading, deepening both the emotional impact and my understanding of what so many women endured.
As I read, I continually found myself Googling the Andrew Mercer Reformatory for Women, the Female Refugees Act, and the Incorrigible law, amongst other things, horrified to learn that these laws and institutions were not fictional constructs but devastating truths of our history.
Liberty Street is more than historical fiction -- it powerfully gives voice to women who were unfairly judged and then discarded and forces us to confront a past that is uncomfortable but essential to acknowledge.
For readers who appreciate immersive historical fiction, modern Canadian literature, and stories that challenge, educate, and linger long past the final page, I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
Thank you to the author, Heather Marshall, Penguin Random House Canada, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy.
Expected publication date: February 24, 2026.
Following the recommendation of another reader, I read the Author’s Notes at the back of the book first -- something I almost never do. This kept the unimaginable realities behind this story front and center throughout my reading, deepening both the emotional impact and my understanding of what so many women endured.
As I read, I continually found myself Googling the Andrew Mercer Reformatory for Women, the Female Refugees Act, and the Incorrigible law, amongst other things, horrified to learn that these laws and institutions were not fictional constructs but devastating truths of our history.
Liberty Street is more than historical fiction -- it powerfully gives voice to women who were unfairly judged and then discarded and forces us to confront a past that is uncomfortable but essential to acknowledge.
For readers who appreciate immersive historical fiction, modern Canadian literature, and stories that challenge, educate, and linger long past the final page, I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
Thank you to the author, Heather Marshall, Penguin Random House Canada, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy.
Expected publication date: February 24, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I don’t quite know how to sum up this book. So good, but with a storyline that is also so awful. We really only understand the world in which we live, so it is hard to fathom how recent it was that women were subject to wildly sketchy laws, stripping them of their autonomy and dignity.
At the start of the book I wasn’t a fan of the dual narrative- it hops around a lot, not just between narrators but also jumping around decades. Personally, it’s just not my favourite story structure and it took a long time before we saw connections between characters. I got over that though, as it is a compelling story that draws you right in.
I really enjoyed this book. Despite the fact that it took a while for me to get into it, I became invested in the mysteries happening in both timelines. This is the kind of book that turned into a very late night read because I needed “just one more chapter to see what happens next”. It feels like the kind of history we should all care about. It makes me want to go do more research into the various historical people who were referenced, and learn more about the real stories that inspired this fictional one.
Side note- As a Canadian woman, I have read Chatelaine magazine many times, but had no idea the part it played in the women’s rights movement in Canada.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Penguin House in exchange for my honest review.
At the start of the book I wasn’t a fan of the dual narrative- it hops around a lot, not just between narrators but also jumping around decades. Personally, it’s just not my favourite story structure and it took a long time before we saw connections between characters. I got over that though, as it is a compelling story that draws you right in.
I really enjoyed this book. Despite the fact that it took a while for me to get into it, I became invested in the mysteries happening in both timelines. This is the kind of book that turned into a very late night read because I needed “just one more chapter to see what happens next”. It feels like the kind of history we should all care about. It makes me want to go do more research into the various historical people who were referenced, and learn more about the real stories that inspired this fictional one.
Side note- As a Canadian woman, I have read Chatelaine magazine many times, but had no idea the part it played in the women’s rights movement in Canada.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Penguin House in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The author magnificently captured the struggles of women in the 1960s. I found this book inspiring and empowering, especially with Emily Radcliffe’s character. She tried to challenge society’s expectation of women’s role (in a family, to husband, and motherhood). This includes the importance of choice and independence, two things women fought hard for. This book felt like reading a mystery story and a horror story at the same time. I couldn’t put it down last night because it had put me on the edge, and I kept turning pages to know what happened.
There were definitely a lot of shocking moments and astounding reveals. I’ll be honest, this book made me research the actual reformatory, and I was further educated about life back then in the 1960s. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like reading about brave protagonists!
🧾 This is an early review, and I was provided an eARC from NetGalley.
There were definitely a lot of shocking moments and astounding reveals. I’ll be honest, this book made me research the actual reformatory, and I was further educated about life back then in the 1960s. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like reading about brave protagonists!
🧾 This is an early review, and I was provided an eARC from NetGalley.
January 28, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy of this novel. I had read Looking for Jane previously-it’s phenomenal so I was excited to see Marshall’s latest novel available for review.
The novel is set in both 1961 and 1996 and features Emily, a young editorial assistant at Chatelaine magazine looking to launch her career as a serious journalist at a time when women were not really expected to have careers and Rachel a newer police detective trying to solve a case who also faces gender discrimination in her career. The intertwining storylines are fascinating, and a history lesson I knew nothing about. I’ve added two of the memoirs featured in the authors notes to my TBR list.
The novel is set in both 1961 and 1996 and features Emily, a young editorial assistant at Chatelaine magazine looking to launch her career as a serious journalist at a time when women were not really expected to have careers and Rachel a newer police detective trying to solve a case who also faces gender discrimination in her career. The intertwining storylines are fascinating, and a history lesson I knew nothing about. I’ve added two of the memoirs featured in the authors notes to my TBR list.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book no words!! And that it takes place where I live is even mindblowing. No idea any of this happened here. My heart goes out to all the woman. The author was amazing and getting to the core of this brutal story and bringing life and feelings to it. Seen by all perspectives not just the woman was amazing. Definitely one of the best books I've read in a long while. I will be thinking of this book.for quiet some time I think. It's one that sticks with you.
Thanks to the author the publisher and Netgalley for a early release of this book.
Thanks to the author the publisher and Netgalley for a early release of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was lucky to receive an advance readers copy of this gorgeous book.
Liberty Street is the story of resistance we need right now, a brilliantly heartfelt novel of two remarkable women—separated by decades yet linked by a passion for justice—who take on patriarchal corruption. You will be on the edge of your seat as this story comes to its unforgettable conclusion.
Heather Marshall fans: you'll want to preorder this one. So good!
Liberty Street is the story of resistance we need right now, a brilliantly heartfelt novel of two remarkable women—separated by decades yet linked by a passion for justice—who take on patriarchal corruption. You will be on the edge of your seat as this story comes to its unforgettable conclusion.
Heather Marshall fans: you'll want to preorder this one. So good!
January 30, 2026
3.75🌟 Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of this book. What a mindblowing and disturbing story based on the true history of Canadian laws and the enslavement of females. I did think the two storylines were disjointed and didn’t necessarily come together in the end… I could have done without Rachel’s backstory.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Fantastic book! Two intertwined stories focused on women, and such interesting women! So grateful that I was able to read an advanced copy. This should be listed for required reading in school.
Additionally, I grew up in Southwest Ontario so I am familiar with the locations.
Additionally, I grew up in Southwest Ontario so I am familiar with the locations.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another fantastic novel from Heather Marshall. I tore through this! This story had intrigue, courage, conflict, and sheer excitement! It is layered with great characters and the writing is superb. Thank you Penguin Random House Canada and NetGalley for the advanced copy!
December 8, 2025
🎧Song Pairing: Concrete Angel - Martina McBride
💭What I thought would happen:
Heather Marshall writes it, I read it.
This book was teased at the end of The Secret History of Audrey James and I’ve been waiting ever since!
📖What actually happens:
📍Toronto 1961
2️⃣Timelines & POVs
⚰️Unmarked grave
💉Torture
⛓️Asylum
📝Undercover journalist
🗯Thoughts/sassy musings:
Heather Marshall, I am not worthy of your beautiful writing 🫡
Women’s👏🏼Mental👏🏼Health👏🏼Representation👏🏼
This book was set in 61’ & 96’ while we have made strides how have we not gotten further in the last half a century?!
I read a lot of thriller, watch a lot of horror films and nothing and I mean NOTHING terrifies me more than the content and truth this book is based on.
It’s written so sooooo well. I am sobbing writing this review. I desperately want people to read this and give a silent prayer to all the women who fought and suffered for the freedoms we have today. 💔
💭What I thought would happen:
Heather Marshall writes it, I read it.
This book was teased at the end of The Secret History of Audrey James and I’ve been waiting ever since!
📖What actually happens:
📍Toronto 1961
2️⃣Timelines & POVs
⚰️Unmarked grave
💉Torture
⛓️Asylum
📝Undercover journalist
🗯Thoughts/sassy musings:
Heather Marshall, I am not worthy of your beautiful writing 🫡
Women’s👏🏼Mental👏🏼Health👏🏼Representation👏🏼
This book was set in 61’ & 96’ while we have made strides how have we not gotten further in the last half a century?!
I read a lot of thriller, watch a lot of horror films and nothing and I mean NOTHING terrifies me more than the content and truth this book is based on.
It’s written so sooooo well. I am sobbing writing this review. I desperately want people to read this and give a silent prayer to all the women who fought and suffered for the freedoms we have today. 💔
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
full review to come. A devastating, beautiful and important read. Just wow.
January 31, 2026
Excellent!! So well written. Heather Marshall please continue to write these amazing pieces of work!!
Thankful for the advanced read opportunity
Thankful for the advanced read opportunity
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