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The Waverly Place #1
The Gilded Hour
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Historical Fiction (2015)The year is 1883, and in New York City, it’s a time of dizzying splendor, crushing poverty, and tremendous change. With the gravity-defying Brooklyn Bridge nearly complete and New York in the grips of anti-vice crusader Anthony Comstock, Anna Savard and her cousin Sophie—both graduates of the Woman’s Medical School—treat the city’s most vulnerable, even if doing so may put everything they’ve strived for in jeopardy.
Anna's work has placed her in the path of four children who have lost everything, just as she herself once had. Faced with their helplessness, Anna must make an unexpected choice between holding on to the pain of her past and letting love into her life.
For Sophie, an obstetrician and the orphaned daughter of free people of color, helping a desperate young mother forces her to grapple with the oath she took as a doctor—and thrusts her and Anna into the orbit of Anthony Comstock, a dangerous man who considers himself the enemy of everything indecent and of anyone who dares to defy him.
Anna's work has placed her in the path of four children who have lost everything, just as she herself once had. Faced with their helplessness, Anna must make an unexpected choice between holding on to the pain of her past and letting love into her life.
For Sophie, an obstetrician and the orphaned daughter of free people of color, helping a desperate young mother forces her to grapple with the oath she took as a doctor—and thrusts her and Anna into the orbit of Anthony Comstock, a dangerous man who considers himself the enemy of everything indecent and of anyone who dares to defy him.
741 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2015
1822 people are currently reading
35950 people want to read
About the author
Sara Donati
28 books3,357 followersWorking on the next novel in the Waverly Place series. Looking for more information? Visit the wilderness universe wiki. Register to comment and participate in giveaways.
Sara Donati is the pen name of Rosina Lippi, also here on Goodreads because she writes too. All book reviews you'll find under Rosina's name.
Sara Donati is the pen name of Rosina Lippi, also here on Goodreads because she writes too. All book reviews you'll find under Rosina's name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,238 reviews
August 12, 2015
I'll say first and foremost that I loved this book. I found the characters intoxicating and fascinating. Their voices are incredibly present, their motives flow from scene to scene; I always understood why they did things, and how those actions grew naturally out of who they were. It was great.
The plot follows the evolution of a family of upper-class(ish) women in 19th Century New York as they encounter, and are changed by, the lives teeming in the city around them. It's difficult to go into much detail without giving away the story but, essentially, two female doctors -- cousins -- in the early years of women's medical practice in the United States, find themselves embroiled in controversies and conspiracies arising from hypocrisies that are both uniquely Victorian, and sadly applicable to the age we live in now. Along the way they meet housewives, nurses, charming police detectives, printers (also charming), ambulance drivers, ambulance chasers, politicians, orphans, criminals, clergy and inquisitors. The ensemble cast is enormous, yet Rosina sketches each character as a complete person, with his or her own motives, and conveys them so thoroughly to the reader that, when a number of important events occur "off-screen", as it were, there is little need for explanation or exposition. The clarity with which events are implied, and the ease with which they are inferred, is one of the great joys of Rosina's writing.
New York is here too, in all its decadence, hope, and savagery. And I suppose I'll say a few words about that as well, because depictions of late 19th Century New York tend to go either Age of Innocence, or Gangs of New York, but not both -- until now. The lives of the upper crust, famous and notorious, are shown in all their splendor, cheek by jowl with the lives of the middle class, the working poor, and the poor criminal classes, with an honesty that is enthusiastic, appreciative, and pleasantly unromantic. Neither are they separated by chapters or point-of-view characters, as some authors would choose to do. Instead, they're all mixed up together, as they likely were in real life, and the result is that the entire city, and all its people, are present for the reader moment to moment, scene to scene.
The Gilded Hour is a remarkably good book. Its characters have stayed with me in the weeks and months since I first encountered them, and I'm desperate to know how their stories progress. The worst thing about the book, really, is that I'll have to wait to read the second one.
The plot follows the evolution of a family of upper-class(ish) women in 19th Century New York as they encounter, and are changed by, the lives teeming in the city around them. It's difficult to go into much detail without giving away the story but, essentially, two female doctors -- cousins -- in the early years of women's medical practice in the United States, find themselves embroiled in controversies and conspiracies arising from hypocrisies that are both uniquely Victorian, and sadly applicable to the age we live in now. Along the way they meet housewives, nurses, charming police detectives, printers (also charming), ambulance drivers, ambulance chasers, politicians, orphans, criminals, clergy and inquisitors. The ensemble cast is enormous, yet Rosina sketches each character as a complete person, with his or her own motives, and conveys them so thoroughly to the reader that, when a number of important events occur "off-screen", as it were, there is little need for explanation or exposition. The clarity with which events are implied, and the ease with which they are inferred, is one of the great joys of Rosina's writing.
New York is here too, in all its decadence, hope, and savagery. And I suppose I'll say a few words about that as well, because depictions of late 19th Century New York tend to go either Age of Innocence, or Gangs of New York, but not both -- until now. The lives of the upper crust, famous and notorious, are shown in all their splendor, cheek by jowl with the lives of the middle class, the working poor, and the poor criminal classes, with an honesty that is enthusiastic, appreciative, and pleasantly unromantic. Neither are they separated by chapters or point-of-view characters, as some authors would choose to do. Instead, they're all mixed up together, as they likely were in real life, and the result is that the entire city, and all its people, are present for the reader moment to moment, scene to scene.
The Gilded Hour is a remarkably good book. Its characters have stayed with me in the weeks and months since I first encountered them, and I'm desperate to know how their stories progress. The worst thing about the book, really, is that I'll have to wait to read the second one.
September 1, 2024
This story could have been stunning but in my opinion, The Gilded Hour tries to tackle too many subjects. Donati's book reads as though she is trying impress the reader with all that she knows about 19th century New York City history. This novel would have been more effective to have focused upon a couple of story lines and developed them solidly rather than flitting around and laundry listing everything that was going on in Society at the time.
Most of the subjects that author Doniti tackles have been explored numerous times in other novels over the years; the New York slums, the Orphan Trains, the corruption of police, the anti-contraception wave and so on. If she had given more life to a few of her characters and stayed with her central theme she would have produced a better novel. I also feel that Donati's editors shortchanged her.
Most of the subjects that author Doniti tackles have been explored numerous times in other novels over the years; the New York slums, the Orphan Trains, the corruption of police, the anti-contraception wave and so on. If she had given more life to a few of her characters and stayed with her central theme she would have produced a better novel. I also feel that Donati's editors shortchanged her.
September 25, 2015
www.melissa413readsalot.blogspot.com
I won this book in a GOODREADS GIVEAWAY.
I am so glad I won this book, otherwise I might not have ever seen it. This is the first book I have read from this author and I thought it was wonderful. It took me some time to read it, not because it was boring in the least, but because I read a lot of books at one time and this is a large book you want to take time with.
As you can read from the blurb the time is 1883 in New York City and you have the cousins Anna Savard( who is a physician/surgeon) and Sophie Savard (who is an obstetrician and a woman of color)
As you can imagine these woman have some trials with people that in those days, have issues with women being doctors and a colored woman at that. I think the author made such rich characters out of these two women. Actually, there are many characters in the book that are rich in the story telling.
I forgot to mention the cousins live with their Aunt Quinlan and she is quite a character, I like her a lot.
Sophie has to deal with delivering babies and women wanting to be on birth control, which in those days, is a big no no. You could go to jail and lose your license! And then the horrible abortions women are getting from unsavory people and everyone dies in that case :(
Anne works at a charity hospital and does a lot of work with the poor. She tries to get vaccinations to all of the orphans at St. Patrick's Orphan Asylum, and back in that day as well, they are afraid of vaccines but are giving them out as much as possible. There are so many orphans and poor people in the book it's heartbreaking.
There are so many characters in the book and I love how the author puts all of the primary people and some extras in the front of the book in case you get confused. I love that.
There are love interests, great friends, sad situations, and history in this book. I love the vivid descriptions the author gives of everything in the book. This might be tedious to some, but I thought it was wonderful. I don't know, just sometimes those things in certain books grab you and take you into the place and I enjoyed it. At times I felt like I was in an episode of Downtown Abbey and not New York :)
I am definitely looking into this author's previous and future works!
I won this book in a GOODREADS GIVEAWAY.
I am so glad I won this book, otherwise I might not have ever seen it. This is the first book I have read from this author and I thought it was wonderful. It took me some time to read it, not because it was boring in the least, but because I read a lot of books at one time and this is a large book you want to take time with.
As you can read from the blurb the time is 1883 in New York City and you have the cousins Anna Savard( who is a physician/surgeon) and Sophie Savard (who is an obstetrician and a woman of color)
As you can imagine these woman have some trials with people that in those days, have issues with women being doctors and a colored woman at that. I think the author made such rich characters out of these two women. Actually, there are many characters in the book that are rich in the story telling.
I forgot to mention the cousins live with their Aunt Quinlan and she is quite a character, I like her a lot.
Sophie has to deal with delivering babies and women wanting to be on birth control, which in those days, is a big no no. You could go to jail and lose your license! And then the horrible abortions women are getting from unsavory people and everyone dies in that case :(
Anne works at a charity hospital and does a lot of work with the poor. She tries to get vaccinations to all of the orphans at St. Patrick's Orphan Asylum, and back in that day as well, they are afraid of vaccines but are giving them out as much as possible. There are so many orphans and poor people in the book it's heartbreaking.
There are so many characters in the book and I love how the author puts all of the primary people and some extras in the front of the book in case you get confused. I love that.
There are love interests, great friends, sad situations, and history in this book. I love the vivid descriptions the author gives of everything in the book. This might be tedious to some, but I thought it was wonderful. I don't know, just sometimes those things in certain books grab you and take you into the place and I enjoyed it. At times I felt like I was in an episode of Downtown Abbey and not New York :)
I am definitely looking into this author's previous and future works!
September 22, 2022
There are several things about this sprawling historical novel set in 1883 that I really liked: the New York setting, the main character Anna, who is a surgeon and feminist, the other offbeat people in her life, the informative historical detail, especially about the perilous situation of women held hostage by those determined to restrict their rights. Although twice as long as it needed to be, I enjoyed the leisurely read. That is until the end.
At the heart of this book is a mystery about crimes committed against women. Yet the author chooses to leave it unfinished, the investigation still in process, clearly setting the stage for her next 800 page opus. That is unacceptable. This book was way too long to play that kind of game. So it is demoted to 3 stars. Although I admit her ploy may have worked because I'll probably read the sequel.
At the heart of this book is a mystery about crimes committed against women. Yet the author chooses to leave it unfinished, the investigation still in process, clearly setting the stage for her next 800 page opus. That is unacceptable. This book was way too long to play that kind of game. So it is demoted to 3 stars. Although I admit her ploy may have worked because I'll probably read the sequel.
September 23, 2015
3.5 stars
I found this historical novel, featuring female doctors in the 19th century, both enjoyable and frustrating; it will best suit readers who value immersion in characters’ lives over plot-driven narratives, and who don’t mind reading a long (732-page) novel only to have resolutions of major plot threads and mysteries deferred to the sequel. For those readers, the rewards include an extensively researched depiction of New York City in 1883, and a warmhearted story of a large and unusual family. I’d call it comfort reading if it weren’t for the serial killer.
This is my first book by Sara Donati, who previously authored a popular historical romance series; this book, though featuring the descendants of characters from that series, appears to be her transition from historical romance to straight historical fiction. And she certainly picked an interesting subject. Little did I know, by the late 19th century the U.S. had several medical schools specifically for women, including one in New York, which operated from 1863 to 1918, until a coed medical school was available to women. (You can read more about the college here.) And the small number of female physicians practicing at the time included black as well as white women (the first African-American female doctor, Rebecca Lee Crumpler, graduated from the New England Female Medical College in 1864).
The Gilded Hour gives us two doctors, Anna and Sophie Savard, cousins who were orphaned in childhood and raised by their elderly aunt. Anna is a surgeon, and white; Sophie is an obstetrician and pediatrician, and is of mixed race. Both have love troubles, which take up a significant chunk of the book (Anna’s in particular; we see less of Sophie, especially in the second half). They also have run-ins with one Anthony Comstock, a historical crusader for Victorian morality who arrested doctors for sharing information about contraception. Another plotline deals with two young orphan girls for whom the family becomes responsible, and the search for their missing brothers. And then there is a mystery involving a serial killer who brutally murders women through deliberately botched abortions, described in gruesome detail.
Donati is in no rush, and the book wanders through these and other subplots, as well as spending time on the characters’ domestic lives. She has a tendency to resolve threats to the protagonists before they get truly serious, and to include scenes that don’t strictly advance the plot, as well as a great deal of description and detail about New York at the time. I don’t always have the patience for this type of novel, but found myself invested in the characters and immersed in the setting to the point that this worked for me. The author has clearly done her research on the time period, and I am particularly impressed with the unapologetic focus on women’s health.
But I see no excuse for leaving readers hanging as to the identity of the murderer; in a book this long, there is certainly space to resolve that issue. Much time is spent on Anna’s romance with police detective Jack Mezzanotte, but despite his getting more page time than anyone besides Anna, Jack is never developed beyond the role of generic male love interest. Their many scenes together show us at length why Jack is attracted to Anna – which is not difficult to understand; she has a strong personality and is an attractive young woman – rather than why Anna would be attracted to Jack. Thus, I neither became engaged in this romance, nor found their whirlwind courtship convincing. And there are a couple of detailed S&M-type scenes that contained more information than I wanted to know. Meanwhile, the characters sometimes seemed a little too modern: discussing relatives’ sex lives, for instance, or making out in public.
All that said, Donati can tell a good story, convincing readers of one view of events only to change our minds with new information. Anna and Sophie are tough and believable as professionals, and are sympathetic characters who are easy to root for. The depiction of New York at the time – from hospitals to police stations to orphanages unable to keep up with the vast numbers of homeless children – is fascinating, and the book inspired me to do a bit of my own research. Ultimately, I enjoyed it enough to want to read the sequel, which hopefully will not be long in coming.
I found this historical novel, featuring female doctors in the 19th century, both enjoyable and frustrating; it will best suit readers who value immersion in characters’ lives over plot-driven narratives, and who don’t mind reading a long (732-page) novel only to have resolutions of major plot threads and mysteries deferred to the sequel. For those readers, the rewards include an extensively researched depiction of New York City in 1883, and a warmhearted story of a large and unusual family. I’d call it comfort reading if it weren’t for the serial killer.
This is my first book by Sara Donati, who previously authored a popular historical romance series; this book, though featuring the descendants of characters from that series, appears to be her transition from historical romance to straight historical fiction. And she certainly picked an interesting subject. Little did I know, by the late 19th century the U.S. had several medical schools specifically for women, including one in New York, which operated from 1863 to 1918, until a coed medical school was available to women. (You can read more about the college here.) And the small number of female physicians practicing at the time included black as well as white women (the first African-American female doctor, Rebecca Lee Crumpler, graduated from the New England Female Medical College in 1864).
The Gilded Hour gives us two doctors, Anna and Sophie Savard, cousins who were orphaned in childhood and raised by their elderly aunt. Anna is a surgeon, and white; Sophie is an obstetrician and pediatrician, and is of mixed race. Both have love troubles, which take up a significant chunk of the book (Anna’s in particular; we see less of Sophie, especially in the second half). They also have run-ins with one Anthony Comstock, a historical crusader for Victorian morality who arrested doctors for sharing information about contraception. Another plotline deals with two young orphan girls for whom the family becomes responsible, and the search for their missing brothers. And then there is a mystery involving a serial killer who brutally murders women through deliberately botched abortions, described in gruesome detail.
Donati is in no rush, and the book wanders through these and other subplots, as well as spending time on the characters’ domestic lives. She has a tendency to resolve threats to the protagonists before they get truly serious, and to include scenes that don’t strictly advance the plot, as well as a great deal of description and detail about New York at the time. I don’t always have the patience for this type of novel, but found myself invested in the characters and immersed in the setting to the point that this worked for me. The author has clearly done her research on the time period, and I am particularly impressed with the unapologetic focus on women’s health.
But I see no excuse for leaving readers hanging as to the identity of the murderer; in a book this long, there is certainly space to resolve that issue. Much time is spent on Anna’s romance with police detective Jack Mezzanotte, but despite his getting more page time than anyone besides Anna, Jack is never developed beyond the role of generic male love interest. Their many scenes together show us at length why Jack is attracted to Anna – which is not difficult to understand; she has a strong personality and is an attractive young woman – rather than why Anna would be attracted to Jack. Thus, I neither became engaged in this romance, nor found their whirlwind courtship convincing. And there are a couple of detailed S&M-type scenes that contained more information than I wanted to know. Meanwhile, the characters sometimes seemed a little too modern: discussing relatives’ sex lives, for instance, or making out in public.
All that said, Donati can tell a good story, convincing readers of one view of events only to change our minds with new information. Anna and Sophie are tough and believable as professionals, and are sympathetic characters who are easy to root for. The depiction of New York at the time – from hospitals to police stations to orphanages unable to keep up with the vast numbers of homeless children – is fascinating, and the book inspired me to do a bit of my own research. Ultimately, I enjoyed it enough to want to read the sequel, which hopefully will not be long in coming.
December 31, 2015
Oh, for CHRISSAKES, what did I just pay $12.99 for on Amazon? Based on the reviews, I was expecting a well-researched historical novel...instead, I got two ponderous romances accompanied by a one-note plot about women physicians in New York. They're women. Doctors. Women doctors. Did the author mention they were women doctors who went to medical school? Women. Abortions. Oh shit, a love story! Two love stories! Gasp! [Predictable sex scene that ends in shuddering simultaneous orgasms]. He touched her wrist. She shuddered again at LEAST once. A courtroom. An invalid who loves a half-black woman. Who is a WOMAN DOCTOR! Abortion. Courtroom. Romance novel sex scene, more orgasms. Some annoying orphans.
Kill me.
Two stars because maybe it got better.
Kill me.
Two stars because maybe it got better.
February 5, 2016
If you like historical fiction and need a great long saga ( complete with list of primary characters) to read by the fireplace this is a great choice. Set in New York City in the 1880's, this is the story of two women Anna and Sophie ( referred to here as being Mulatto) Savard, who are cousins and though unexpected for the time physicians. It's a time before Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. The Brooklyn bridge is being built, and the city is full of dazzling splendor and abject poverty. The practice of medicine is just learning about aseptic procedure, a technique which will change the course of history.
Unfortunately, it's a time when women rich or poor have few rights , especially when it comes to choosing how many children they will bear. Contraception is illegal and because of this many women end up with disastrous results after resorting to desperate measures, and orphanages are bursting with children who cannot be provided for. Besides being full of colorful history this book includes an appealing cast of characters, along with a lot of action including trying to find missing family , romance, solving several mysteries, and even the search for a morally minded murderer. 5 stars , for this book which I highly recommend by the author of the bestselling Wilderness series ( which I must now read !)
Unfortunately, it's a time when women rich or poor have few rights , especially when it comes to choosing how many children they will bear. Contraception is illegal and because of this many women end up with disastrous results after resorting to desperate measures, and orphanages are bursting with children who cannot be provided for. Besides being full of colorful history this book includes an appealing cast of characters, along with a lot of action including trying to find missing family , romance, solving several mysteries, and even the search for a morally minded murderer. 5 stars , for this book which I highly recommend by the author of the bestselling Wilderness series ( which I must now read !)
October 20, 2015
I wanted a book about two female doctors in the late 19th century. While there is that plot line there are also too many forays into sexual liaisons and other plot lines that bog down the book.
As soon as I read about a penis head smacking into a belly, I couldn't read anymore. I'm no prude but the author is no romance writer either.
Oh well.
As soon as I read about a penis head smacking into a belly, I couldn't read anymore. I'm no prude but the author is no romance writer either.
Oh well.
October 17, 2015
4.25★ Thoughts on The Gilded Hour
I love historical fiction. At over 700 pages with meticulous detail to multiple characters and story lines including the city of New York in 1883, a reader who isn’t such a fan might find this one hard to get through. It builds slowly. That said I really liked it. I include a link that gives a better overview to anyone who might be interested in learning more of its background, especially if you are familiar with the author’s Wilderness Series.
http://thegildedhour.com/?doing_wp_cr...
The Brooklyn bridge is nearing completion, the Statue of Liberty expected to arrive soon. Abortion and contraceptives are illegal and thousands of children, some of whom will end up on the orphan trains headed west are homeless and destitute on the streets. Many of the agencies charged with their care are not much better than street life. People sicken daily and succumb to all sorts of disease and danger. In describing what the book is about the author states on her blog that at its core it's about “violence toward and control of women.” I agree. Especially to the immigrant poor. If you have any family history of bloodlines coming to America via New York during the time period it paints a vivid portrait of what awaited them. It’s also a great story about 4 orphaned children who come to the attention of our main characters Anna and Jack. Their personal relationship brings back many of the elements I loved about Elizabeth (Boots) and Nathaniel in Donati's book Into the Wilderness. Enlightening, educational, and entertaining as it covers a divisive and controversial topic still an issue in current affairs as well as at a recent family dinner table. This is not a superficial or topical presentation. Not all the story elements are neatly wrapped up at the end and this may bother some readers. It is the first in a series and I have no idea if she will continue where it leaves off but I do look forward to the next installment.
I love historical fiction. At over 700 pages with meticulous detail to multiple characters and story lines including the city of New York in 1883, a reader who isn’t such a fan might find this one hard to get through. It builds slowly. That said I really liked it. I include a link that gives a better overview to anyone who might be interested in learning more of its background, especially if you are familiar with the author’s Wilderness Series.
http://thegildedhour.com/?doing_wp_cr...
The Brooklyn bridge is nearing completion, the Statue of Liberty expected to arrive soon. Abortion and contraceptives are illegal and thousands of children, some of whom will end up on the orphan trains headed west are homeless and destitute on the streets. Many of the agencies charged with their care are not much better than street life. People sicken daily and succumb to all sorts of disease and danger. In describing what the book is about the author states on her blog that at its core it's about “violence toward and control of women.” I agree. Especially to the immigrant poor. If you have any family history of bloodlines coming to America via New York during the time period it paints a vivid portrait of what awaited them. It’s also a great story about 4 orphaned children who come to the attention of our main characters Anna and Jack. Their personal relationship brings back many of the elements I loved about Elizabeth (Boots) and Nathaniel in Donati's book Into the Wilderness. Enlightening, educational, and entertaining as it covers a divisive and controversial topic still an issue in current affairs as well as at a recent family dinner table. This is not a superficial or topical presentation. Not all the story elements are neatly wrapped up at the end and this may bother some readers. It is the first in a series and I have no idea if she will continue where it leaves off but I do look forward to the next installment.
July 13, 2015
As a fan of Sara Donati's Wilderness novels, I've been looking forward to her newest book for a long time now. I was lucky enough to win an ARC of the book and was delighted to be reunited with the descendants of the Bonner family, now living in NYC in the 1880's.
One of my favorite aspects of The Gilded Hour was the level of detail in the author's historical research. I don't think I knew much about this period of time in New York history. The two main protagonists, Anna and Sophie Savard, were fascinating characters. I could see the threads that linked them back to their ancestors from the previous series. All of the characters were richly drawn and brought additional depth to the overall story. I found myself wanting to know more about this era of history, some 20 years after the Civil War and before automobiles and telephones.
If you loved The Wilderness series and carefully researched historical fiction, you will love this newest book. I look forward to the next installment of this series.
One of my favorite aspects of The Gilded Hour was the level of detail in the author's historical research. I don't think I knew much about this period of time in New York history. The two main protagonists, Anna and Sophie Savard, were fascinating characters. I could see the threads that linked them back to their ancestors from the previous series. All of the characters were richly drawn and brought additional depth to the overall story. I found myself wanting to know more about this era of history, some 20 years after the Civil War and before automobiles and telephones.
If you loved The Wilderness series and carefully researched historical fiction, you will love this newest book. I look forward to the next installment of this series.
November 30, 2015
I've made three serious attempts to write a review for this novel but just can't marshal my many thoughts into a definitive text. So, so much of this book is addictive reading, the characters strong and likable. I cannot wait to read the next part of the series and more about the Quinlans, the Savards and Jack, Rosa and Lia.
I'm sharing with you a review I think mirrors my experience of the book. It is by the writer Jason Schmidt. His review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 29, 2016
This book needed an editor and a picture of Fabio on the cover.
May 22, 2024
3,5 ⭐
Un libro bien escrito y bien contado. Destaca como recrea el Nueva York de final del XIX, el aspecto físico de la ciudad y el social, así como la vida cotidiana y las costumbres. Las dos observaciones de la autora tras los agradecimientos, me han parecido muy interesantes y ayudan a contextualizar.
Con respecto a la trama en general bien. Sin embargo, he tenido momentos en los que me parecía que la historia no terminaba de fluir, que pasaban demasiadas cosas y al mismo tiempo ninguna.
Los personajes bien trazados. Mis favoritos, Anna, Jack y la tía Quinlan.
El final aunque no puedo decir que esté mal, me ha dejado con demasiadas incógnitas a resolver en dos siguientes (recordemos que es trilogía). Tras 800 páginas de lectura esperaba un poco más de concreción y un poco menos de tener que suponer.
En definitiva, una novela bien escrita, bien contada y en general interesante, con un final más flojo que el resto.
Un libro bien escrito y bien contado. Destaca como recrea el Nueva York de final del XIX, el aspecto físico de la ciudad y el social, así como la vida cotidiana y las costumbres. Las dos observaciones de la autora tras los agradecimientos, me han parecido muy interesantes y ayudan a contextualizar.
Con respecto a la trama en general bien. Sin embargo, he tenido momentos en los que me parecía que la historia no terminaba de fluir, que pasaban demasiadas cosas y al mismo tiempo ninguna.
Los personajes bien trazados. Mis favoritos, Anna, Jack y la tía Quinlan.
El final aunque no puedo decir que esté mal, me ha dejado con demasiadas incógnitas a resolver en dos siguientes (recordemos que es trilogía). Tras 800 páginas de lectura esperaba un poco más de concreción y un poco menos de tener que suponer.
En definitiva, una novela bien escrita, bien contada y en general interesante, con un final más flojo que el resto.
April 3, 2022
Really good storytelling and lots of characters to love. Set over a few months in 1883, two women doctors in New York City struggle against sexism, racism, and narrow social expectations while trying to locate and reunite separated orphaned siblings, negotiate reproductive constraints for their patients, and find love on their own terms.
March 20, 2016
I received this book thanks to Goodreads Giveaways and the publishers.
I was excited to start in on this book because who doesn't love a good chunky Historical Fiction novel? It started out very well. I found the characters to be likeable and well developed, the writing was good, the story seemed interesting, and I appreciated the feminist stance that the author took in terms of opportunities for women and reproductive freedom. This book received very high ratings from other readers so I seem to be in the minority with my two star rating but the book didn't deliver what I thought it would from its promising start and quickly fell apart. While many books span a number of genres successfully, that wasn't the case here. It might have been better had the author stuck with HF but she branched out into the realms of Romance. While the traditional HF sections were well-written, the romantic elements were not, thereby creating a choppy, inconsistent read. If that wasn't enough, half way through the author chose to throw in a murder mystery. The whole thing was just a mess. While reading, I had planned on giving the book three stars but, upon finishing, after investing the time to read 732 pages, I found that very few of the many plot lines had actually been resolved. Obviously there will be a sequel. Which I will not be reading.
I was excited to start in on this book because who doesn't love a good chunky Historical Fiction novel? It started out very well. I found the characters to be likeable and well developed, the writing was good, the story seemed interesting, and I appreciated the feminist stance that the author took in terms of opportunities for women and reproductive freedom. This book received very high ratings from other readers so I seem to be in the minority with my two star rating but the book didn't deliver what I thought it would from its promising start and quickly fell apart. While many books span a number of genres successfully, that wasn't the case here. It might have been better had the author stuck with HF but she branched out into the realms of Romance. While the traditional HF sections were well-written, the romantic elements were not, thereby creating a choppy, inconsistent read. If that wasn't enough, half way through the author chose to throw in a murder mystery. The whole thing was just a mess. While reading, I had planned on giving the book three stars but, upon finishing, after investing the time to read 732 pages, I found that very few of the many plot lines had actually been resolved. Obviously there will be a sequel. Which I will not be reading.
March 23, 2016
The year is 1883 and in New York City change is in the air. There is very little middle ground in this burgeoning metropolis. There are the glittering rich and the poorest of the poor.Both rich and poverty stricken are over the top in their respective roles.
But amid all this are women and to a lesser degree men, blazing a trail of independence and social change. Anna and Sophie Savard are two of these women. Cousins,both orphaned at an early age, raised by forward thinking family, they are trained and duly licensed physicians. This is their story.
I love historical fiction and this author stole my heart with her previous ,Into the Wilderness saga. She draws loosely from her previous work but make no mistake, this stands by itself just fine. A sequel is planned and I can't wait.
But amid all this are women and to a lesser degree men, blazing a trail of independence and social change. Anna and Sophie Savard are two of these women. Cousins,both orphaned at an early age, raised by forward thinking family, they are trained and duly licensed physicians. This is their story.
I love historical fiction and this author stole my heart with her previous ,Into the Wilderness saga. She draws loosely from her previous work but make no mistake, this stands by itself just fine. A sequel is planned and I can't wait.
September 5, 2019
This is an exceptional book that delves into so many interesting subjects.
In 1883, Anna Savard and her cousin Sophie Savard, both doctors, find themselves embroiled in a death investigation involving a woman who died as a result of a botched abortion. Anna, who had no interest in romantic relationships, finds herself strongly attracted to Jack Mezzanotte, a detective sergeant from the NYPD. As they further look into a young woman’s death, they get caught up in what appears to be a series of murders by an unknown abortionist.
There are so many characters in this book. Fortunately the author gives a listing of the most important characters at the beginning of the book. And doubly fortunate, all the characters are wonderfully portrayed. Each is unique in their own right and after a while the reader no longer needs the list. Some characters become favorites. For me it was Anna and Jack, along with the ever wise Aunt Quinlan.
So many themes are touched upon in this book, but it all works. Women’s economic rights; racial discrimination; the power of the Catholic Church; women’s reproductive rights; child welfare; medical practices; women’s marriage vs. employment issues; poverty; ethnic discrimination; the powerlessness of women in marriage; men’s views about women. These are just some of the issues that are addressed. Some are delved into in great depth; others are there but in the background. Even though this book takes place in 1883, many of these issues still haunt us and effect us today, especially the issue of men controlling women’s reproductive rights.
The book is incredibly well written. I’ll admit that at first it was a slow go as there was so much to take in. But once I got into the rhythm of the writing and the story, I was hooked.
Some storylines are left hanging. There is a sequel, Where the Light Enters, and I am really looking forward to reading it. This is one of those books that gives you a “book hangover.” I miss these characters already.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. Now I can’t wait to read more of her books.
A definite recommend.
In 1883, Anna Savard and her cousin Sophie Savard, both doctors, find themselves embroiled in a death investigation involving a woman who died as a result of a botched abortion. Anna, who had no interest in romantic relationships, finds herself strongly attracted to Jack Mezzanotte, a detective sergeant from the NYPD. As they further look into a young woman’s death, they get caught up in what appears to be a series of murders by an unknown abortionist.
There are so many characters in this book. Fortunately the author gives a listing of the most important characters at the beginning of the book. And doubly fortunate, all the characters are wonderfully portrayed. Each is unique in their own right and after a while the reader no longer needs the list. Some characters become favorites. For me it was Anna and Jack, along with the ever wise Aunt Quinlan.
So many themes are touched upon in this book, but it all works. Women’s economic rights; racial discrimination; the power of the Catholic Church; women’s reproductive rights; child welfare; medical practices; women’s marriage vs. employment issues; poverty; ethnic discrimination; the powerlessness of women in marriage; men’s views about women. These are just some of the issues that are addressed. Some are delved into in great depth; others are there but in the background. Even though this book takes place in 1883, many of these issues still haunt us and effect us today, especially the issue of men controlling women’s reproductive rights.
The book is incredibly well written. I’ll admit that at first it was a slow go as there was so much to take in. But once I got into the rhythm of the writing and the story, I was hooked.
Some storylines are left hanging. There is a sequel, Where the Light Enters, and I am really looking forward to reading it. This is one of those books that gives you a “book hangover.” I miss these characters already.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. Now I can’t wait to read more of her books.
A definite recommend.
Read
June 22, 2024Dos jóvenes médicas en la Nueva York del siglo XIX, una sociedad que persigue las conductas indecentes de la época y la búsqueda de una familia de huérfanos separados por extrañas circunstancias.
Cuando Anna Savard sustituye a su prima Sophie en una visita a unos pobres huérfanos, la joven conoce a cuatro hermanos italianos que lo han perdido todo y a los que se siente inexplicablemente vinculada desde el principio. Ese mismo día conoce a un policía de origen italiano, que le ayudará cuando el peligroso Anthony Comstock, el líder de la Sociedad de la Supresión del Vicio, se cruce en su camino y a tratar de unir a la familia de los pequeños huérfanos.
Sara Donati construye en "La época dorada" un viaje al Nueva York de finales del siglo XIX protagonizado por un joven médica, valiente y adelantada para su época. Una historia que se adentra en temas como la pobreza, la familia, la sociedad, los derechos de las mujeres, el aborto, la medicina, la inmigración, la corrupción policial y la xenofobia.
✔️ Puntos fuertes: lectura amena, lenguaje sencillo, el personaje de Anna Savard y su evolución, personajes bien perfilados, una trama bien construida, los múltiples giros, la envolvente ambientación y las cuidadas descripciones-
❤ Te gustará si: buscas una ficción histórica y romántica, una historia autoconclusiva y/o protagonizada por una mujer valiente y adelantada a su época.
Cuando Anna Savard sustituye a su prima Sophie en una visita a unos pobres huérfanos, la joven conoce a cuatro hermanos italianos que lo han perdido todo y a los que se siente inexplicablemente vinculada desde el principio. Ese mismo día conoce a un policía de origen italiano, que le ayudará cuando el peligroso Anthony Comstock, el líder de la Sociedad de la Supresión del Vicio, se cruce en su camino y a tratar de unir a la familia de los pequeños huérfanos.
Sara Donati construye en "La época dorada" un viaje al Nueva York de finales del siglo XIX protagonizado por un joven médica, valiente y adelantada para su época. Una historia que se adentra en temas como la pobreza, la familia, la sociedad, los derechos de las mujeres, el aborto, la medicina, la inmigración, la corrupción policial y la xenofobia.
✔️ Puntos fuertes: lectura amena, lenguaje sencillo, el personaje de Anna Savard y su evolución, personajes bien perfilados, una trama bien construida, los múltiples giros, la envolvente ambientación y las cuidadas descripciones-
❤ Te gustará si: buscas una ficción histórica y romántica, una historia autoconclusiva y/o protagonizada por una mujer valiente y adelantada a su época.
January 9, 2016
I am perplexed by this book. It was full of interesting characters and an unusual story line (although, while I am pro choice I became weary of all the detail) but the reader feels like she came in in the middle and then it came to a surprising stop at the end. It was 2 am and I was reading an electronic version from the library so did not have the expectation one has with a real book at nearing the conclusion. I was very surprised and wondered if I was so tired I had missed key resolution. But no. Perhaps, as used to happen when I worked in publishing, the author wrote so much it had to be broken into two books. However, the overall result was disappointing, perhaps because my expectations were so high.
September 18, 2016
Reading The Gilded Hour by Sara Donati confirms to me why I love reading historical fiction! The almost 800 pages could be daunting for some but each page was read eagerly with anticipation as I became more invested in the characters' lives. The focus of this saga is the tale of two independent, clever, strong women in NYC in the 1880's. Donati explores the plight of women's issues, especial the poor, immigrants with regard to their medical concerns.
Donati clearly wrote this book with the plan to write a sequel! I am eagerly waiting for the next saga to answer some lingering questions.
Donati clearly wrote this book with the plan to write a sequel! I am eagerly waiting for the next saga to answer some lingering questions.
June 30, 2015
I'm not sure how I feel about this book. I have loved all of her other books but found this one a little long. I think what I really disliked was the pacing.It took me a long time to get interested in the characters though once I did I truly liked them. Then the plot, which I really enjoyed, sped up in the middle of the book & then slowed way down at then end & then it ended abruptly. While reading it I had no idea that it was going to have a sequel so I was annoyed that a couple of main characters left right in the middle of the book. I was also distracted by trying to figure out how these characters were related to the characters from Donati's previous series. You eventually find out but a family tree would have been helpful. (the advanced ebook version I read didn't have one but maybe the printed version will include one.) All in all, I loved the characters and plot so I would recommend it to historical fiction fans, for sure.
January 8, 2016
I was totally engrossed in this terrific novel about two women doctors and their extended family in post civil war New York City. The characters are very likable and well developed. There are several subplots that keep the reader engaged.
The only reason I did not give this book five stars is the narrative around the romance. As one reviewer described "It was superfluous"- So true. The book stood just fine without the cheesy corset ripping or chemise lifting sex. I also wished author Donati would have solved the primary mystery before concluding the 700 pages, but alas this is a new series and she wants to keep us coming back.
I am certainly looking forward to the next installment of this series as I feel invested in the many different characters Donati has put forth.
The only reason I did not give this book five stars is the narrative around the romance. As one reviewer described "It was superfluous"- So true. The book stood just fine without the cheesy corset ripping or chemise lifting sex. I also wished author Donati would have solved the primary mystery before concluding the 700 pages, but alas this is a new series and she wants to keep us coming back.
I am certainly looking forward to the next installment of this series as I feel invested in the many different characters Donati has put forth.
Read
September 22, 2015No rating. The style and flow is such that I have difficulty in following the characters or the storyline. Continuity is off, IMHO, and coupled with the subject matter and era placement, I'm just not at all connecting nor becoming interested. Way too many words to say way too little for me to want to attempt further engagement. It could be a good book, but definitely not for me. There are some pages I read 2 times and still don't understand their context. I tried this author before and had connection issue too. So it's just not for me.
February 3, 2016
I was prepared to give this book 5 stars until the author wrapped up the book without resolving major plot points. I enjoyed the subject matter and many of the characters although some of them were very underdeveloped. However, if I am going to commit myself to a 700+ page novel, I really do not want to feel short-changed at the end of it and that's exactly what I felt as this book wound down. The reader gets absolutely no resolution to really ANYTHING. I can only conclude that this means that there is eventually going to be a sequel to this book but if so I would have liked to know this up front.
December 24, 2015
I have adored Sara Donati (aka Rosina Lippi) since the day I opened the first book in her Wilderness series so when I saw that this book was coming, it was an automatic read for me. I have to preface this review by saying that she would have to write a pretty awful book for me to dislike it and I might be a little biased by love of her previous work.
This book plops you down right into the middle of the lives of two women at its center, as well as all the wonderful supporting cast around them. A theme throughout the story is the strong foundation that this family provides for each other. Really, these people are so charming I just want to sit down and have dinner with them! Sophie and Anna are cousins, both orphaned at a young age and raised by their Aunt Quinlan (Lily Bonner, now 80-some y/o, for those who have read the Wilderness books). Both are doctors and strong, free-thinking women in a time where most people considered these to be “unnatural” traits in women.
There are a couple of plot lines to follow but, mostly, reading this book is like living for a span of about 4 months in late 19th century Manhattan. Through everyday interactions in the story Donati paints a scary picture of how perilous life could be for women, African Americans, orphaned children and immigrants. I hope that reading this will at least make people pause and really consider what life was like back then for people who were not privileged white males. As a woman, I came away from this book feeling very fortunate to be living in the times that I do. In some areas we’ve come a long way and in other areas we still have so far to go. It does give me hope though!
I enjoyed this reading experience this from the very first chapter. It’s so nice to learn history about different geographies and cultures without feeling like I’m reading a text book. Even better, this is a book that makes you feel right at home with people who are determined to be kind and do good in a world that won’t reward them for it. I will be recommending this one and the entire Wilderness series to my reading friends!
This book plops you down right into the middle of the lives of two women at its center, as well as all the wonderful supporting cast around them. A theme throughout the story is the strong foundation that this family provides for each other. Really, these people are so charming I just want to sit down and have dinner with them! Sophie and Anna are cousins, both orphaned at a young age and raised by their Aunt Quinlan (Lily Bonner, now 80-some y/o, for those who have read the Wilderness books). Both are doctors and strong, free-thinking women in a time where most people considered these to be “unnatural” traits in women.
There are a couple of plot lines to follow but, mostly, reading this book is like living for a span of about 4 months in late 19th century Manhattan. Through everyday interactions in the story Donati paints a scary picture of how perilous life could be for women, African Americans, orphaned children and immigrants. I hope that reading this will at least make people pause and really consider what life was like back then for people who were not privileged white males. As a woman, I came away from this book feeling very fortunate to be living in the times that I do. In some areas we’ve come a long way and in other areas we still have so far to go. It does give me hope though!
I enjoyed this reading experience this from the very first chapter. It’s so nice to learn history about different geographies and cultures without feeling like I’m reading a text book. Even better, this is a book that makes you feel right at home with people who are determined to be kind and do good in a world that won’t reward them for it. I will be recommending this one and the entire Wilderness series to my reading friends!
January 1, 2020
Loved this book although it was over 700 pages and I thought I would never finish. Had to finish today. Happy New Year 2020
September 11, 2015
The Gilded Hour is latest (and launch of a new series) by historical fiction writer Sara Donati. Having loved her Wilderness series, I jumped at the chance to read her latest that features the ancestors of the fictional Bonner family introduced in Donati’s Wilderness. It is one of my most anticipated reads of the fall. Here, the setting in 1883 New York and focuses on two cousins, Drs. Anna Savard and Sophie Savard. Both these young doctors face trials, both personally and professionally, and through them readers are taken on a tour of historic New York. And, it’s one of those books that you finish and can’t quite let go – which makes writing a coherent review that praises the awesomeness that is this book quite difficult!
At 752 pages The Gilded Hour is a behemoth. With this somewhat daunting length you would expect or assume that this due to be a tedious read. Nothing could be farther from the truth. The Gilded Hour was a book that I flew through and thought about when I wasn't reading it. The subject matter and the characters that are introduced create a compelling and emotionally engaging read. It's a story that I wanted to talk about, and talk about it I did. I'm fairly certain co-workers are sick of hearing me rave about the book, but if it gets them to read the book, well, mission accomplished.
What I really like about Donati’s writing in general and in The Gilded Hour in particular is her ability to elicit an emotional reaction to historical details. Rather than giving readers the facts and figures, readers get a sense of the people who lived during the period the book is set in. There were many instances in The Gilded Hour where I could feel myself getting so angry because of the behaviour of people our heroines encountered. The opposition that Anna and Sophie face as women doctors is infuriating as well as the comments and disrespect that they receive from their male colleagues. Birth control, abortion and women’s rights are all themes that are explored extensively throughout the book. And being a woman, I, you know, care about these things. What I didn’t expect was the anger I felt on these characters’ behalf. Anna and Sophie are treated as second-class citizen in several notable occasions and their professions also open the doors to the patients they administer. The information that Donati delivers with this peak into history wasn’t new, but I think it’s something that shouldn’t be forgotten. The fact that I was emotional invested in the book, and sharing it with every reader I know, is a testament to the strength of the storytelling in The Gilded Hour.
While themes of women’s rights, immigration, and race were are an integral part of The Gilded Hour what makes this book something extra special is the characters that are introduced. Both Anna and Sophie are strong woman, but strong in different ways. Anna is more clinical and practical and Sophie the more compassionate and emotional. Unlike many women their age, both are unconventional in that they have both pursued a career in medicine. While both characters were interesting and complex, I think readers get to “know” Anna much better than Sophie. Arguably, The Gilded Hour is Anna’s book.
Anna Savard grew up cared for but also impacted by the fact she was orphaned as a child. By circumstances Anna encounters a family of four young, recently orphaned Italian children, and she becomes embroiled in keeping these children together because of the parallels she sees to her own childhood. These children also bring Anna into contact with Italian police sergeant Jack Mezzanotte, who assists her when two of the four orphaned children go missing. Jack is all too happy to help since he’s been captivated by the practical Dr. Savard since laying eyes on her. The romance between Anna and Jack is a significant aspect of the story and it was absolutely lovely and it provided a means for Anna’s character to explore other facets to her personality. Anna was more than a doctor and this romance helped to show that. Seriously, it was swoon worthy. It helps that Jack is really quite cool with having a working wife and respects her opinion and knowledge, even seeking her help when he and his partner investigate what appear to be the work of a serial killer.
Finishing The Gilded Hour there is not the sense that the story is completed. There is so much left at loose ends. Jack and Anna are still trying to track down the doctor that is butchering woman that attempt to have abortions. Sophie’s narrative seemed to have dropped off when she left the country for Europe. And new characters are introduced like former nun turned aspiring doctor, Elise. There is so much fodder for future books I’m left astounded that this book was only 700+ pages – it needs to be more! Anyone familiar with Donati’s writing will love this newest book, and it sparks my own desire to go back and revisit the Wilderness series. Romance and a rich historical setting were combined so effortlessly in The Gilded Hour I can’t recommend it enough for historical and romance readers alike.
It's hard to put into words what makes The Gilded Hour such a wonderful read. It's smart and thought provoking, and I can say is that you should read it. Right now.
Originally reviewed at The Book Adventures.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss.
At 752 pages The Gilded Hour is a behemoth. With this somewhat daunting length you would expect or assume that this due to be a tedious read. Nothing could be farther from the truth. The Gilded Hour was a book that I flew through and thought about when I wasn't reading it. The subject matter and the characters that are introduced create a compelling and emotionally engaging read. It's a story that I wanted to talk about, and talk about it I did. I'm fairly certain co-workers are sick of hearing me rave about the book, but if it gets them to read the book, well, mission accomplished.
What I really like about Donati’s writing in general and in The Gilded Hour in particular is her ability to elicit an emotional reaction to historical details. Rather than giving readers the facts and figures, readers get a sense of the people who lived during the period the book is set in. There were many instances in The Gilded Hour where I could feel myself getting so angry because of the behaviour of people our heroines encountered. The opposition that Anna and Sophie face as women doctors is infuriating as well as the comments and disrespect that they receive from their male colleagues. Birth control, abortion and women’s rights are all themes that are explored extensively throughout the book. And being a woman, I, you know, care about these things. What I didn’t expect was the anger I felt on these characters’ behalf. Anna and Sophie are treated as second-class citizen in several notable occasions and their professions also open the doors to the patients they administer. The information that Donati delivers with this peak into history wasn’t new, but I think it’s something that shouldn’t be forgotten. The fact that I was emotional invested in the book, and sharing it with every reader I know, is a testament to the strength of the storytelling in The Gilded Hour.
While themes of women’s rights, immigration, and race were are an integral part of The Gilded Hour what makes this book something extra special is the characters that are introduced. Both Anna and Sophie are strong woman, but strong in different ways. Anna is more clinical and practical and Sophie the more compassionate and emotional. Unlike many women their age, both are unconventional in that they have both pursued a career in medicine. While both characters were interesting and complex, I think readers get to “know” Anna much better than Sophie. Arguably, The Gilded Hour is Anna’s book.
Anna Savard grew up cared for but also impacted by the fact she was orphaned as a child. By circumstances Anna encounters a family of four young, recently orphaned Italian children, and she becomes embroiled in keeping these children together because of the parallels she sees to her own childhood. These children also bring Anna into contact with Italian police sergeant Jack Mezzanotte, who assists her when two of the four orphaned children go missing. Jack is all too happy to help since he’s been captivated by the practical Dr. Savard since laying eyes on her. The romance between Anna and Jack is a significant aspect of the story and it was absolutely lovely and it provided a means for Anna’s character to explore other facets to her personality. Anna was more than a doctor and this romance helped to show that. Seriously, it was swoon worthy. It helps that Jack is really quite cool with having a working wife and respects her opinion and knowledge, even seeking her help when he and his partner investigate what appear to be the work of a serial killer.
Finishing The Gilded Hour there is not the sense that the story is completed. There is so much left at loose ends. Jack and Anna are still trying to track down the doctor that is butchering woman that attempt to have abortions. Sophie’s narrative seemed to have dropped off when she left the country for Europe. And new characters are introduced like former nun turned aspiring doctor, Elise. There is so much fodder for future books I’m left astounded that this book was only 700+ pages – it needs to be more! Anyone familiar with Donati’s writing will love this newest book, and it sparks my own desire to go back and revisit the Wilderness series. Romance and a rich historical setting were combined so effortlessly in The Gilded Hour I can’t recommend it enough for historical and romance readers alike.
It's hard to put into words what makes The Gilded Hour such a wonderful read. It's smart and thought provoking, and I can say is that you should read it. Right now.
Originally reviewed at The Book Adventures.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss.
June 19, 2015
This book will seem very long and drawn out to some people, but I like these types of historical fiction where you get to know all the people very well. Fascinating history of female doctors and what they were thru. We don't think about how good we have it now a days.
September 8, 2015
"The Gilded Hour" is a new historical fiction offering from Sara Donati, author of the "Wilderness" series, which I would now really like to read. In this book, she takes us to 1880s New York and into the lives of Anna and Sophie Savard. Anna is a physician and so is Sophie, but she is also a "free woman of color," which adds another layer of complexity to her life. This book has a lot of intrigue and weaves an intimate picture of some fascinating characters.
The story focuses on the women as they try to make a living in the rapidly changing New York City. Through their work, they put themselves in the sights of Anthony Comstock, author of the Comstock Act, which banned sending items such as erotica and contraceptives through the U.S. Postal Service. Because of some of the procedures that the women perform, they are targets. It was fascinating to me to see how far acts like the Comstock Act went in the name of legislating morality. I actually did not know much about the Comstock Act before this book.
This book is not merely about the politics and morality at the time. There is a huge part of the story arc that has to do with one of the cousins' patients that was endlessly fascinating to me. The book also has a family aspect as well as a romantic aspect. There is something for everyone!
This book is quite long at over 700 pages. Some parts could definitely be slimmed down such as some of the parts where the author gave a little bit too much detail about what various characters were thinking. There were some cases of telling instead of showing here, which bogged down the story. Overall, though, the story was interesting and kept me entertained. I am looking forward to reading more by this author!
The story focuses on the women as they try to make a living in the rapidly changing New York City. Through their work, they put themselves in the sights of Anthony Comstock, author of the Comstock Act, which banned sending items such as erotica and contraceptives through the U.S. Postal Service. Because of some of the procedures that the women perform, they are targets. It was fascinating to me to see how far acts like the Comstock Act went in the name of legislating morality. I actually did not know much about the Comstock Act before this book.
This book is not merely about the politics and morality at the time. There is a huge part of the story arc that has to do with one of the cousins' patients that was endlessly fascinating to me. The book also has a family aspect as well as a romantic aspect. There is something for everyone!
This book is quite long at over 700 pages. Some parts could definitely be slimmed down such as some of the parts where the author gave a little bit too much detail about what various characters were thinking. There were some cases of telling instead of showing here, which bogged down the story. Overall, though, the story was interesting and kept me entertained. I am looking forward to reading more by this author!
November 26, 2015
I was excited to get this book and I pushed through half of it hoping at some point it would hold my interest. It never did. Sara Donati played heavily on stereotypes ad nauseam. The problem is, these stereotypes were not as deep set that century as they are now. The author wrote 18th century characters with 21st century mindsets which is blasphemy to me in a period piece...this is exactly where the authenticity of the period is lost and where she inevitably lost me.
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