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The Heart of Doctor Steele
Are the rumors about him true? She intends to find out.
The mysterious Dr. Steele has taken up residence next door, and scandalous rumors about him are spreading through Margaret Landeau’s small Massachusetts town. Rumors of women he’s ill-used and exploited for his experimental surgeries. Never one to believe gossip, Margaret arms herself with a basket of baked goods and ventures to discover the truth from the man himself.
John Steele has lost everything. His parents, his aunt, too many women he intended to save, and his good name. All he has left is his aunt’s home in a far-flung village and a library he’s stocked with whiskey. He has nothing to offer anyone. Especially not the bold woman next door whose passion for healing reminds him of the man he once was.
But when a dangerously ill girl arrives on his doorstep, pleading for help, Margaret is thrust into his world. She will learn who the real Dr. John Steele truly is, and soon, not even his dark past can stop her from fighting for the brilliant doctor she now loves. But he must deny his crushing desire for her—loving a man like him can only cast a shadow over her own bright future.
The mysterious Dr. Steele has taken up residence next door, and scandalous rumors about him are spreading through Margaret Landeau’s small Massachusetts town. Rumors of women he’s ill-used and exploited for his experimental surgeries. Never one to believe gossip, Margaret arms herself with a basket of baked goods and ventures to discover the truth from the man himself.
John Steele has lost everything. His parents, his aunt, too many women he intended to save, and his good name. All he has left is his aunt’s home in a far-flung village and a library he’s stocked with whiskey. He has nothing to offer anyone. Especially not the bold woman next door whose passion for healing reminds him of the man he once was.
But when a dangerously ill girl arrives on his doorstep, pleading for help, Margaret is thrust into his world. She will learn who the real Dr. John Steele truly is, and soon, not even his dark past can stop her from fighting for the brilliant doctor she now loves. But he must deny his crushing desire for her—loving a man like him can only cast a shadow over her own bright future.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2020
4 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Colette Dixon
6 books25 followersA two-time Golden Heart award finalist, Colette worked for a hospital for twenty years while dreaming up love story plots and now writes (steamy) books about the healing power of love. Whether in modern times or bygone eras, her heart-mending romances feature intelligent heroines and the men who can’t live without them. She loves to drink tea, cuddle with her rescue pup, and sun herself every chance she can get to survive the Midwest winter.
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https://instagram.com/cdixonfiction
https://twitter.com/cdixonbooks
Facebook: https://facebook.com/colettedixonauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 18, 2020
Many thanks to Net Galley, Crimson Fox Publishing and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
The Heart of Doctor Steele is an absolutely fascinating book. The romance between a cynical man who have lost all faith in his profession and in humanity and the vibrant and filled with hope Margaret Landeau was captivating. How Margaret uses her no-nonsense approach to life to turn the man around in his beliefs was quite believably done and it was nice to see the woman in a much emotionally stronger position in the story.
Margaret was like a breath of fresh air, intelligent and strong in her convictions, having no qualms in facing any adversity, the scene where she faces the director of admissions in Harvard was pure joy.
The author has a background in medicine and it is evident in multitude ways in the book and understanding the development of gynecology as a field of medicine for the treatment of various problems categorized as simply female issues was absorbing to read.
The relationship between the sisters Charlotte and Margaret and also between Margaret and her father was another brilliant touch. I loved how Charlotte changes from a simpering gossipy girl to a mature woman helping her sister in every decision as the story progresses and the ending with a courtroom drama was surprising.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/; Amazon India, Goodreads, and Twitter.
The Heart of Doctor Steele is an absolutely fascinating book. The romance between a cynical man who have lost all faith in his profession and in humanity and the vibrant and filled with hope Margaret Landeau was captivating. How Margaret uses her no-nonsense approach to life to turn the man around in his beliefs was quite believably done and it was nice to see the woman in a much emotionally stronger position in the story.
Margaret was like a breath of fresh air, intelligent and strong in her convictions, having no qualms in facing any adversity, the scene where she faces the director of admissions in Harvard was pure joy.
The author has a background in medicine and it is evident in multitude ways in the book and understanding the development of gynecology as a field of medicine for the treatment of various problems categorized as simply female issues was absorbing to read.
The relationship between the sisters Charlotte and Margaret and also between Margaret and her father was another brilliant touch. I loved how Charlotte changes from a simpering gossipy girl to a mature woman helping her sister in every decision as the story progresses and the ending with a courtroom drama was surprising.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/; Amazon India, Goodreads, and Twitter.
October 8, 2020
Fabulous new historical romance by Colette Dixon with a strong heroine and sensual hero. Loved it!
September 28, 2020
The Heart of Doctor Steele
Colette Dixon
https://m.facebook.com/colettedixonau...
Release date 10/06/2020
Publisher Crimson Fox Publishing
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
The mysterious Dr. Steele has taken up residence next door, and scandalous rumors about him are spreading through Margaret Landeau’s small Massachusetts town. Rumors of women he’s ill-used and exploited for his experimental surgeries. Never one to believe gossip, Margaret arms herself with a basket of baked goods and ventures to discover the truth from the man himself.
John Steele has lost everything. His parents, his aunt, too many women he intended to save, and his good name. All he has left is his aunt’s home in a far-flung village and a library he’s stocked with whiskey. He has nothing to offer anyone. Especially not the bold woman next door whose passion for healing reminds him of the man he once was.
But when a dangerously ill girl arrives on his doorstep, pleading for help, Margaret is thrust into his world. She will learn who the real Dr. John Steele truly is, and soon, not even his dark past can stop her from fighting for the brilliant doctor she now loves. But he must deny his crushing desire for her—loving a man like him can only cast a shadow over her own bright future.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will his dealing of his past tear them apart ...
It appears this book to be the first foray of the author in the historical romance world.
I loved it was set in a period and place I do not often read about, plus its main subject is not one I have read a lot about.
Sure, there are many tales of women looking for medical training, yet here the heroine is intrigued and decides about entertaining such prospect only truly after attending her first surgery.
John Steele is the enigma of this book, he is a broken man with a past full of shadows. A past he tries to bury but when it comes knocking at his door, he still can’t turn his back to the plea of a woman in pain.
Margaret is a kind young woman, she longs for more from life than marriage, she wants her own adventure but the woman’s brain is not seen as equally effective as men’s.
But while their possible future is threatened by overreacting and ignorant people, they are their worth enemies, what ever is thrown at them, it is them and only them that keep them apart.
For a clever and well taught woman, Margaret acts childishly at time. She is upset he did not spill his secrets in the few days they have met, then she believes the first gossips over the man she has worked with and is falling for, she pouts when she misinterprets his words, acting like a spoiled brat and not a balanced adult.
Yet, in the moment it counts most, she stands by his side, a hand to hold, her faith in him unwavering.
John is no better, in his darkest time, he chooses to run away, letting things fester instead of confronting them. It is only with Margaret’s help, he will stand up to face his detractors.
Along the pages, Margaret grows but she is not the only one, and while John has my sympathetic view, he too is very flawed. By playing the ostrich, not standing up for himself, he had a hand on the damages of his reputation.
Be forewarned there are gory details, but they appear as accurate and part of the tale. What women had to endure because of a world controlled by men and propriety over well being is unimaginable.
4.5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Colette Dixon
https://m.facebook.com/colettedixonau...
Release date 10/06/2020
Publisher Crimson Fox Publishing
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
The mysterious Dr. Steele has taken up residence next door, and scandalous rumors about him are spreading through Margaret Landeau’s small Massachusetts town. Rumors of women he’s ill-used and exploited for his experimental surgeries. Never one to believe gossip, Margaret arms herself with a basket of baked goods and ventures to discover the truth from the man himself.
John Steele has lost everything. His parents, his aunt, too many women he intended to save, and his good name. All he has left is his aunt’s home in a far-flung village and a library he’s stocked with whiskey. He has nothing to offer anyone. Especially not the bold woman next door whose passion for healing reminds him of the man he once was.
But when a dangerously ill girl arrives on his doorstep, pleading for help, Margaret is thrust into his world. She will learn who the real Dr. John Steele truly is, and soon, not even his dark past can stop her from fighting for the brilliant doctor she now loves. But he must deny his crushing desire for her—loving a man like him can only cast a shadow over her own bright future.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will his dealing of his past tear them apart ...
It appears this book to be the first foray of the author in the historical romance world.
I loved it was set in a period and place I do not often read about, plus its main subject is not one I have read a lot about.
Sure, there are many tales of women looking for medical training, yet here the heroine is intrigued and decides about entertaining such prospect only truly after attending her first surgery.
John Steele is the enigma of this book, he is a broken man with a past full of shadows. A past he tries to bury but when it comes knocking at his door, he still can’t turn his back to the plea of a woman in pain.
Margaret is a kind young woman, she longs for more from life than marriage, she wants her own adventure but the woman’s brain is not seen as equally effective as men’s.
But while their possible future is threatened by overreacting and ignorant people, they are their worth enemies, what ever is thrown at them, it is them and only them that keep them apart.
For a clever and well taught woman, Margaret acts childishly at time. She is upset he did not spill his secrets in the few days they have met, then she believes the first gossips over the man she has worked with and is falling for, she pouts when she misinterprets his words, acting like a spoiled brat and not a balanced adult.
Yet, in the moment it counts most, she stands by his side, a hand to hold, her faith in him unwavering.
John is no better, in his darkest time, he chooses to run away, letting things fester instead of confronting them. It is only with Margaret’s help, he will stand up to face his detractors.
Along the pages, Margaret grows but she is not the only one, and while John has my sympathetic view, he too is very flawed. By playing the ostrich, not standing up for himself, he had a hand on the damages of his reputation.
Be forewarned there are gory details, but they appear as accurate and part of the tale. What women had to endure because of a world controlled by men and propriety over well being is unimaginable.
4.5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
October 17, 2020
Loved this cover. I choose this book for two reasons. Romance and historical. It was written well and I learned a lot about what happened to Doctors and there reputations. I also learned it was impossible for a women to earn the right to go to medical school.
John was a complicated man. He struggled with many things, his parent’s death and failed surgeries made it hard for him to move forward.
I wanted more chemistry between
these two. The romance almost felt forced at time.
Thank you NETGALLEY and the publisher for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review. ♥️
John was a complicated man. He struggled with many things, his parent’s death and failed surgeries made it hard for him to move forward.
I wanted more chemistry between
these two. The romance almost felt forced at time.
Thank you NETGALLEY and the publisher for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review. ♥️
November 24, 2020
When a mysterious stranger moves in next door, Margaret finds a man who sees her as more than what society will allow.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Margaret Landeau is the daughter of a professor - whilst her own family has always encouraged her intellect, and aren't forcing her to marry - life for a woman in 1845 is restrictive. Margaret is only meant to aspire to marriage and children, as women at that time aren't thought capable of big decisions.
When a disgraced doctor moves in next door, Margaret jumps at the opportunity to be his surgical assistant.
Dr John Steele has been chased from Boston by gossip and rumours of malpractice. His forte is removing ovarian cysts, a treatment that is held as a taboo. Many intelligent people and doctors would rather leave a woman in agony, than treat them as seriously as a man.
Hiding in his late-aunt's house, Dr Steele doesn't get chance to wallow, as Margaret is pushing him to be involved with the world again.
I really liked learning about the historical medical practises of the time, and how poor female care was. Not just in the non-treating of cysts, but the puerperal fevers because of poor hygiene, and how little autonomy a woman had over her own body.
I found it absolutely fascinating. This wasn't a gimmick or fluffy filler, but very well-written. It felt well-researched and is woven strongly throughout the story.
I enjoyed following Margaret as she uncovers the truth behind Dr Steele's past, as well as establishes her desire to become a doctor. You get the feeling that she wants to help people, but she also wants to prove that she is as capable as a man.
I liked how supportive Margaret's family is, and especially how all of this brought her closer to her little sister Charlotte. Charlotte starts as a pretty young girl, who conforms to society's standards; buy grows throughout to show she's smart, but still different from her sister.
I liked the route the plot took, as it could have easily bailed out.
It also didn't portray this as being aa fluffy happy-ever-after. Margaret isn't blind to Dr Steele's faults, she recognises his depression and dark moods, and realises that they may return.
The not-so-good.
For an historical novel, I felt that the writing and narrative were on the blunt side.
There's a lot of descriptive work around the surgical side of things which works well, but the social side wasn't always believable for the period, and disrupted the flow of the story.
For example, at the very beginning, Margaret lets herself into Dr Steele's house because he didn't answer the door, and when he doesn't respond she has a snoop around.
In the first half of the book, I found their dialogue exchanges somewhat blocky and unrealistic.
About half-way Margaret has a complete personality change - she's been Dr Steele's most fervent supporter, and she is adamant in not judging anyone based on gossip and second-hand information. Yet when she hears a new foul rumour about him she completely flips, despite the rumour having no evidence, and that she has witnessed what a good man he is.
After it was resolved, Margaret went back to her old faithful self.
It was like it was wedged in to add drama.
Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. I would be interested in reading more of this author's work.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Margaret Landeau is the daughter of a professor - whilst her own family has always encouraged her intellect, and aren't forcing her to marry - life for a woman in 1845 is restrictive. Margaret is only meant to aspire to marriage and children, as women at that time aren't thought capable of big decisions.
When a disgraced doctor moves in next door, Margaret jumps at the opportunity to be his surgical assistant.
Dr John Steele has been chased from Boston by gossip and rumours of malpractice. His forte is removing ovarian cysts, a treatment that is held as a taboo. Many intelligent people and doctors would rather leave a woman in agony, than treat them as seriously as a man.
Hiding in his late-aunt's house, Dr Steele doesn't get chance to wallow, as Margaret is pushing him to be involved with the world again.
I really liked learning about the historical medical practises of the time, and how poor female care was. Not just in the non-treating of cysts, but the puerperal fevers because of poor hygiene, and how little autonomy a woman had over her own body.
I found it absolutely fascinating. This wasn't a gimmick or fluffy filler, but very well-written. It felt well-researched and is woven strongly throughout the story.
I enjoyed following Margaret as she uncovers the truth behind Dr Steele's past, as well as establishes her desire to become a doctor. You get the feeling that she wants to help people, but she also wants to prove that she is as capable as a man.
I liked how supportive Margaret's family is, and especially how all of this brought her closer to her little sister Charlotte. Charlotte starts as a pretty young girl, who conforms to society's standards; buy grows throughout to show she's smart, but still different from her sister.
I liked the route the plot took, as it could have easily bailed out.
It also didn't portray this as being aa fluffy happy-ever-after. Margaret isn't blind to Dr Steele's faults, she recognises his depression and dark moods, and realises that they may return.
The not-so-good.
For an historical novel, I felt that the writing and narrative were on the blunt side.
There's a lot of descriptive work around the surgical side of things which works well, but the social side wasn't always believable for the period, and disrupted the flow of the story.
For example, at the very beginning, Margaret lets herself into Dr Steele's house because he didn't answer the door, and when he doesn't respond she has a snoop around.
In the first half of the book, I found their dialogue exchanges somewhat blocky and unrealistic.
About half-way Margaret has a complete personality change - she's been Dr Steele's most fervent supporter, and she is adamant in not judging anyone based on gossip and second-hand information. Yet when she hears a new foul rumour about him she completely flips, despite the rumour having no evidence, and that she has witnessed what a good man he is.
After it was resolved, Margaret went back to her old faithful self.
It was like it was wedged in to add drama.
Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. I would be interested in reading more of this author's work.
November 24, 2020
This is a combination of two genres you don’t often see together; medical romance and historical romance. Frankly, the state of medicine in the mid-19th century doesn’t lend itself well to doctor heroes, considering most of them were very keen on bloodletting and had little clue about hygiene.
Doctor John Steele, however, is on the cutting edge (no pun intended) of medicine. He believes in the germ theory of infection, and has specialized in surgery on ‘women’s troubles’ which, in practice, means performing hysterectomies and oophorectomies (ovarian removal). This in an era when many doctors wouldn’t even touch a female patient, to protect their reputation, set him up as a target when something goes wrong - which of course, it does. After the death of a patient for which he is blamed, John retreats to lick his wounds, with a convenient bolthole of a house his aunt just left him after her passing. And this is where the heroine comes in… Margaret is his next door neighbour, daughter of a well-respected family.
Margaret is rather fascinated by their grumpy new neighbour. He’d obviously like to keep her at arms length - but he’s unwillingly impressed by her calm good sense, and soon enough he’s asking for her help, needing her to assist in a surgery when he cannot turn a desperate young woman away. (Trigger warnings: the surgeries do get a little gory). Margaret is very intelligent and keen to pursue the study of medicine herself - she even applies to Harvard - and I really liked that John was so supportive of her goals.
The romance is never in danger of being overwhelmed by the medical issues side of the story here; the attraction is there from the first moment for John and Margaret, but they don’t start to act on it until a level of trust has been established between them. There are a couple of nicely done love scenes (I thought from the cover this might be a sweet/inspirational romance, so don’t be taken in - this isn’t closed-door).
Overall, this is a really excellent story, inspired by real-life historical figures and events, with a solid romance at the heart of it. I have no hesitation in awarding it five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
Doctor John Steele, however, is on the cutting edge (no pun intended) of medicine. He believes in the germ theory of infection, and has specialized in surgery on ‘women’s troubles’ which, in practice, means performing hysterectomies and oophorectomies (ovarian removal). This in an era when many doctors wouldn’t even touch a female patient, to protect their reputation, set him up as a target when something goes wrong - which of course, it does. After the death of a patient for which he is blamed, John retreats to lick his wounds, with a convenient bolthole of a house his aunt just left him after her passing. And this is where the heroine comes in… Margaret is his next door neighbour, daughter of a well-respected family.
Margaret is rather fascinated by their grumpy new neighbour. He’d obviously like to keep her at arms length - but he’s unwillingly impressed by her calm good sense, and soon enough he’s asking for her help, needing her to assist in a surgery when he cannot turn a desperate young woman away. (Trigger warnings: the surgeries do get a little gory). Margaret is very intelligent and keen to pursue the study of medicine herself - she even applies to Harvard - and I really liked that John was so supportive of her goals.
The romance is never in danger of being overwhelmed by the medical issues side of the story here; the attraction is there from the first moment for John and Margaret, but they don’t start to act on it until a level of trust has been established between them. There are a couple of nicely done love scenes (I thought from the cover this might be a sweet/inspirational romance, so don’t be taken in - this isn’t closed-door).
Overall, this is a really excellent story, inspired by real-life historical figures and events, with a solid romance at the heart of it. I have no hesitation in awarding it five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
November 17, 2020
The Heart of Doctor Steele is a standalone novel
by Colette Dixon.
Doctor John Steele has moved into his late aunt's house and is licking his wounds after his promising medical career has come to a halt through no fault of his own. A pioneer in women's abdominal surgery he was already looked down upon but when women he treated died all sorts of rumours started circulating.
Margaret Landeau, her parents and sister were very fond of John's aunt and because of that and in the spirit of being good neighbours they want to welcome him. He is hardly ever seen and seems reclusive but Margaret is determined to meet him and welcome him. She is a feminist and is very interested in medicine. It really rankles that women are not accepted into any medical schools but that doesn't stop her learning all that she can herself. Meeting John would be wonderful because there is so much he could teach her.
Their first meeting doesn't go as Margaret plans when she takes a food basket as a welcome. There was an immediate attraction between them, one that John wasn't going to act on because of his feelings of having no worth. That doesn't stop him being fascinated with Margaret. She reminds him of his old self, the one that was keen on medicine and helping people. When he realises that she could easily push her way into his life he does something a little drastic to make her frightened of him. It didn't frighten her but it certainly shocked him. He was quick to make her leave after that.
Perhaps they wouldn't have anything more to do with each other, not if John could help it. But when a woman in dire need of surgery ends up on his doorstep begging for his help he knows the only person he can call on to assist him is Margaret. She makes an excellent assistant and he is very impressed by her stoicism.
What follows is a captivating story about how John and Margaret help each other and find themselves falling in love. Margaret doesn't want to marry because she wants her independence, and John doesn't feel worthy enough to ask her to marry him. Will things conspire to help him find his self worth again, and will Margaret be convinced that marriage doesn't have to mean the end of her dreams?
I really enjoyed this story. Reading about John and Margaret's relationship develop through their trials and tribulations was moving. They shared some beautifully romantic moments and some equally emotional ones that had me close to tears. The women that John treats and some of the treatment he receives because of the false rumours about him were another source of emotion for me. But don't worry, there were some equally light-hearted moments that had me smiling. There were also some passionate moments between John and Margaret that were most sigh-worthy. All in all, this was a great read and one that I am more than happy to recommend.
by Colette Dixon.
Doctor John Steele has moved into his late aunt's house and is licking his wounds after his promising medical career has come to a halt through no fault of his own. A pioneer in women's abdominal surgery he was already looked down upon but when women he treated died all sorts of rumours started circulating.
Margaret Landeau, her parents and sister were very fond of John's aunt and because of that and in the spirit of being good neighbours they want to welcome him. He is hardly ever seen and seems reclusive but Margaret is determined to meet him and welcome him. She is a feminist and is very interested in medicine. It really rankles that women are not accepted into any medical schools but that doesn't stop her learning all that she can herself. Meeting John would be wonderful because there is so much he could teach her.
Their first meeting doesn't go as Margaret plans when she takes a food basket as a welcome. There was an immediate attraction between them, one that John wasn't going to act on because of his feelings of having no worth. That doesn't stop him being fascinated with Margaret. She reminds him of his old self, the one that was keen on medicine and helping people. When he realises that she could easily push her way into his life he does something a little drastic to make her frightened of him. It didn't frighten her but it certainly shocked him. He was quick to make her leave after that.
Perhaps they wouldn't have anything more to do with each other, not if John could help it. But when a woman in dire need of surgery ends up on his doorstep begging for his help he knows the only person he can call on to assist him is Margaret. She makes an excellent assistant and he is very impressed by her stoicism.
What follows is a captivating story about how John and Margaret help each other and find themselves falling in love. Margaret doesn't want to marry because she wants her independence, and John doesn't feel worthy enough to ask her to marry him. Will things conspire to help him find his self worth again, and will Margaret be convinced that marriage doesn't have to mean the end of her dreams?
I really enjoyed this story. Reading about John and Margaret's relationship develop through their trials and tribulations was moving. They shared some beautifully romantic moments and some equally emotional ones that had me close to tears. The women that John treats and some of the treatment he receives because of the false rumours about him were another source of emotion for me. But don't worry, there were some equally light-hearted moments that had me smiling. There were also some passionate moments between John and Margaret that were most sigh-worthy. All in all, this was a great read and one that I am more than happy to recommend.
November 27, 2020
A disgraced doctor, a new surgical technique, a young woman determined to save lives.
The Heart of Dr. Steele by Colette Dixon is a moving historical romance about the evolution of gynecological medicine and its challenges.
Margaret was the daughter of a university professor and had been raised in an intellectually stimulating environment. She had a specific interest in medical studies and was frequently questioning the parson's wife about the herbs she used for healing.
When a mysterious doctor moved into the neighborhood, not even the unsavory gossip about his past could keep Margaret from checking him out.
Dr. John Steele was a man in tatters. Idealistic and innovative, he associated himself with the wrong person and ended up paying with his reputation and his career.
He moved into his deceased aunt's home, looking for isolation, refuge, and to drown his sorrows in spirits, not to be importuned by a noisy miss.
Dr. Steele had quite a dark aura, and Margaret was pure light. Their romantic relationship revolved around their common medical interest, especially the all-new techniques for operating tumors in the uterus/ovaries.
I enjoyed the surgeries (despite all the blood). They were fascinating and an excellent opportunity to get to know the real John and Margaret.
The side characters were lovely, especially Margaret's father, who always believed in her ability to become a doctor. The patients, their families, worries, and sorrows made the story very emotional.
The Heart of Dr. Steele is an engaging medical historical romance with a strong and determined heroine and a talented hero in need of a north.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Heart of Dr. Steele by Colette Dixon is a moving historical romance about the evolution of gynecological medicine and its challenges.
Margaret was the daughter of a university professor and had been raised in an intellectually stimulating environment. She had a specific interest in medical studies and was frequently questioning the parson's wife about the herbs she used for healing.
When a mysterious doctor moved into the neighborhood, not even the unsavory gossip about his past could keep Margaret from checking him out.
Dr. John Steele was a man in tatters. Idealistic and innovative, he associated himself with the wrong person and ended up paying with his reputation and his career.
He moved into his deceased aunt's home, looking for isolation, refuge, and to drown his sorrows in spirits, not to be importuned by a noisy miss.
Dr. Steele had quite a dark aura, and Margaret was pure light. Their romantic relationship revolved around their common medical interest, especially the all-new techniques for operating tumors in the uterus/ovaries.
I enjoyed the surgeries (despite all the blood). They were fascinating and an excellent opportunity to get to know the real John and Margaret.
The side characters were lovely, especially Margaret's father, who always believed in her ability to become a doctor. The patients, their families, worries, and sorrows made the story very emotional.
The Heart of Dr. Steele is an engaging medical historical romance with a strong and determined heroine and a talented hero in need of a north.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2021
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: 📖📖📖 – I thought the plot was okay. It was better in the beginning but then as you found out more of the truth, I felt like the characters actions weren't as logical.
Feels: 🦋🦋 – The beginning half of the book had decent feels for me. There's a scene towards the beginning where Doctor Steele barely brushes Margaret's ankle and it was very sexy. But then it all fizzled away for me.
Romance: 💞💞
Emotional Depth: 💔💔 – There were emotional scenes to this book, trauma, loss, characters bearing their hearts, yet I still was left feeling like I didn't know either character super well. Only large events in their lives that made up the major plot points.
Sexual Tension: ⚡️⚡️
Sensuality: 🔥🔥 - The intimate scenes are a decent mix of emotional and physical aspects. Though it wasn't quite as explicit as I like, and a fair use of euphemisms during the act.
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑 – longer than a paragraph but not by much
Number of Sex Scenes: 🍆🍆
Safety warnings attached at end.
Doctor Steele (John) turns up in town with rumors swirling around him. That he's a quack doctor. That he experiments on women. That he's a murderer. Margaret is determined to give him the benefit of a doubt and find out what kind of person he really is. John tries to push Margaret away with his surly personality, but she's determined to see the best in him.
Give this book a try if you are in the mood for:
-An American backdrop – this book takes place in Deerfield, Massachusetts
-1845 time frame. John is 29 and Margaret is 25.
-A doctor hero – John is a doctor (if you couldn't tell from the title 😜) and Margaret is also interested in surgery/care taking
-Some mystery added in with your romance. There's a bit of a mystery behind Doctor Steele and what he has suffered that's slowly unraveled throughout the book.
-Light to moderate steam – a few kisses and two fairly short scenes
The author's notes are fascinating. Some background on germ theory and disease from the 1800s and on women attempting to enter Harvard Medical School. You can easily see how she formed this story after being sparked by this research.
I enjoyed some aspects of this story. The beginning I really liked, the mystery surrounded John as Margaret was getting to know him. But as the story went on, it lost the tension for me. I also felt like the characters actions were a bit illogical. I was uncomfortable with how Margaret had a few misgivings about certain things but was willing to move on in a intimate way. I felt like we were missing a conversation that should have taken place. Still, the story was pleasant, and had a different feel than what I usually read. There's a lot of doctor talk, surgery scenes, and the like and those started to drag a bit for me.
Safety warnings for (possible spoilers)
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Plot: 📖📖📖 – I thought the plot was okay. It was better in the beginning but then as you found out more of the truth, I felt like the characters actions weren't as logical.
Feels: 🦋🦋 – The beginning half of the book had decent feels for me. There's a scene towards the beginning where Doctor Steele barely brushes Margaret's ankle and it was very sexy. But then it all fizzled away for me.
Romance: 💞💞
Emotional Depth: 💔💔 – There were emotional scenes to this book, trauma, loss, characters bearing their hearts, yet I still was left feeling like I didn't know either character super well. Only large events in their lives that made up the major plot points.
Sexual Tension: ⚡️⚡️
Sensuality: 🔥🔥 - The intimate scenes are a decent mix of emotional and physical aspects. Though it wasn't quite as explicit as I like, and a fair use of euphemisms during the act.
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑 – longer than a paragraph but not by much
Number of Sex Scenes: 🍆🍆
Safety warnings attached at end.
Doctor Steele (John) turns up in town with rumors swirling around him. That he's a quack doctor. That he experiments on women. That he's a murderer. Margaret is determined to give him the benefit of a doubt and find out what kind of person he really is. John tries to push Margaret away with his surly personality, but she's determined to see the best in him.
Give this book a try if you are in the mood for:
-An American backdrop – this book takes place in Deerfield, Massachusetts
-1845 time frame. John is 29 and Margaret is 25.
-A doctor hero – John is a doctor (if you couldn't tell from the title 😜) and Margaret is also interested in surgery/care taking
-Some mystery added in with your romance. There's a bit of a mystery behind Doctor Steele and what he has suffered that's slowly unraveled throughout the book.
-Light to moderate steam – a few kisses and two fairly short scenes
The author's notes are fascinating. Some background on germ theory and disease from the 1800s and on women attempting to enter Harvard Medical School. You can easily see how she formed this story after being sparked by this research.
I enjoyed some aspects of this story. The beginning I really liked, the mystery surrounded John as Margaret was getting to know him. But as the story went on, it lost the tension for me. I also felt like the characters actions were a bit illogical. I was uncomfortable with how Margaret had a few misgivings about certain things but was willing to move on in a intimate way. I felt like we were missing a conversation that should have taken place. Still, the story was pleasant, and had a different feel than what I usually read. There's a lot of doctor talk, surgery scenes, and the like and those started to drag a bit for me.
Safety warnings for (possible spoilers)
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.
.
.
.
.
.
October 7, 2020
A clever book that also has a lot of heart!
I have read this book with genuine pleasure, glad to have found a historical romance with style that is true to the age, and where the characters behave in a credible manner for the era they live in. I loved it that the author recreated an authentic feel of mid-nineteenth century American life in a small town and did not attempt to modernize the characters unduly (As unfortunately too many historical romance authors feel entitled to do today…). The feminist medical plot (with the hero and heroine as pioneers in the treatment of ovarian tumors) is well researched and interesting, reminding us the courage it took to address such issues in the nineteenth century and the struggle to change certain ideas involving both women and women’s bodies.
The mysterious John Steele becomes Margaret next-door neighbor and soon Margaret’s curiosity about her doctor neighbor becomes much more than that…Fascination, admiration and lust all blend in….Both characters are convincing and complex, and there is good chemistry between the dark-haired brooding hero and the cerebral, yet inexperienced heroine. What I loved most about the book though is the way the author played with scents and tastes – in both recipes and remedies. Cardamon tastes and bergamot scents are just delicious...and very much a part of the romance and sexual tension between the characters… I also loved the references to and quotes from Emerson (not only because I’ve always been an admirer of Emerson), but because they gave a very authentic feel to the plot and appropriate depth to the characters.
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I have read this book with genuine pleasure, glad to have found a historical romance with style that is true to the age, and where the characters behave in a credible manner for the era they live in. I loved it that the author recreated an authentic feel of mid-nineteenth century American life in a small town and did not attempt to modernize the characters unduly (As unfortunately too many historical romance authors feel entitled to do today…). The feminist medical plot (with the hero and heroine as pioneers in the treatment of ovarian tumors) is well researched and interesting, reminding us the courage it took to address such issues in the nineteenth century and the struggle to change certain ideas involving both women and women’s bodies.
The mysterious John Steele becomes Margaret next-door neighbor and soon Margaret’s curiosity about her doctor neighbor becomes much more than that…Fascination, admiration and lust all blend in….Both characters are convincing and complex, and there is good chemistry between the dark-haired brooding hero and the cerebral, yet inexperienced heroine. What I loved most about the book though is the way the author played with scents and tastes – in both recipes and remedies. Cardamon tastes and bergamot scents are just delicious...and very much a part of the romance and sexual tension between the characters… I also loved the references to and quotes from Emerson (not only because I’ve always been an admirer of Emerson), but because they gave a very authentic feel to the plot and appropriate depth to the characters.
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2020
I was enchanted by The Heart of Doctor Steele by Colette Dixon. The author breathed new life into historical romance with subject matters that women are still having to fight with men about today - the right to treatment for our own bodies and the right to be equal (attending medical school in Margaret's day and equal pay in modern day, for example). I found myself completely absorbed in the tale of Dr. John Steele, disgraced doctor of female ailments. His desire to help those of the fairer sex is noble but, at the point in history, not widely approved. Being run out of town after the spread of lies and the threat of a lawsuit, Dr. Steele finds himself holed up in his late aunt's home in a small town in Massachusetts.
Margaret Landeau is curious about their new, reclusive neighbor. Unflattering rumors about him have being to circulate but Margaret being of sound mind and not prone to the beliefs of idle gossip, refuses to believe the stories. She's intent on being neighborly and finding out the truth about Dr. Steele. Let's just say his first impression was less than stellar. Yet, Margaret feels drawn to him and is eager to know more. As her unwavering confidence in Dr. Steele, as not only a capable surgeon but also a gentleman, continues to grow, feelings develop between them. When his past drops onto his porch like a rock rolling down a mountain, John and Margaret will be tested in ways they never expected.
This book was amazing and I couldn't put it down. The author created and developed wonderful and likable characters. The subject matter was timeless, pertaining to history and current events. The research done and incorporated into this book by Colette Dixon was on point. I loved the additional historical detail the author provides at the end of the book. The world building was flawless and showed me a small town in the early 1800's where I could see everything from the homes to the church, and feel the tension between John and Margaret and the stress during surgeries that, at the time, included surgeries without anesthesia. This is a must read!
I was provided an ebook of The Heart of Doctor Steele to review and my thoughts and opinions are my own.
Margaret Landeau is curious about their new, reclusive neighbor. Unflattering rumors about him have being to circulate but Margaret being of sound mind and not prone to the beliefs of idle gossip, refuses to believe the stories. She's intent on being neighborly and finding out the truth about Dr. Steele. Let's just say his first impression was less than stellar. Yet, Margaret feels drawn to him and is eager to know more. As her unwavering confidence in Dr. Steele, as not only a capable surgeon but also a gentleman, continues to grow, feelings develop between them. When his past drops onto his porch like a rock rolling down a mountain, John and Margaret will be tested in ways they never expected.
This book was amazing and I couldn't put it down. The author created and developed wonderful and likable characters. The subject matter was timeless, pertaining to history and current events. The research done and incorporated into this book by Colette Dixon was on point. I loved the additional historical detail the author provides at the end of the book. The world building was flawless and showed me a small town in the early 1800's where I could see everything from the homes to the church, and feel the tension between John and Margaret and the stress during surgeries that, at the time, included surgeries without anesthesia. This is a must read!
I was provided an ebook of The Heart of Doctor Steele to review and my thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 14, 2020
Medicine from the heart
Dr Steele aka John is a true physician who literally feels the pain of his patients! People fear what they do not understand and its always been so! Charting a course in women's surgeries was considered beyond brave! Feeling like a failure John sojourn to his aunt home steeped in despair unable to say goodbye to a woman who loved and nurtured him! Immersed in alcohol and slovenly house keeping he intrigues Margaret curiosity! I love how her interactions with John bring about her own hidden gifts and strengths!! Some of their conversations appear at time they are talking at each other and not to each other! Margaret has confusing views on marriage and she is outspoken in other respects! But John grew a backbone and fights for their future! Proud of the strategy and ways Margaret stood by him and used every event to their advantage was brilliant! I love this author!!
Dr Steele aka John is a true physician who literally feels the pain of his patients! People fear what they do not understand and its always been so! Charting a course in women's surgeries was considered beyond brave! Feeling like a failure John sojourn to his aunt home steeped in despair unable to say goodbye to a woman who loved and nurtured him! Immersed in alcohol and slovenly house keeping he intrigues Margaret curiosity! I love how her interactions with John bring about her own hidden gifts and strengths!! Some of their conversations appear at time they are talking at each other and not to each other! Margaret has confusing views on marriage and she is outspoken in other respects! But John grew a backbone and fights for their future! Proud of the strategy and ways Margaret stood by him and used every event to their advantage was brilliant! I love this author!!
October 6, 2020
Honestly, when I started this book I was afraid it was going to be a DNF (even though I rarely ever do that). It was slow and I did not think it would get its groove. But hold the phone, when the story really took off it took off. The setting is unusual, the storyline is nothing I have ever read before and it was wonderful. John is the youngest most curmudgeonly man I have ever read. It is almost hysterical if it was not so tragic. Margaret is a women ahead of her time and does not let men stop her from what she wants and craves – to be helpful even applying to Harvard medical college. The dynamic of John and Margaret’s relationship is loving and so sweet. I am so glad I gave this story a second chance because it became a great story.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
October 15, 2020
This was an enjoyable read, with strong characters, and interesting in sight into the state of women's medical care at the time. There were places where I definitely rolled my eyes, where the characters got a little preachy, or in Dr Steele's case to indulgent. I do appreciate that the heroine, Margaret insists that well she sees the good in Doctor Steele, she needs him to step up and be the good that she sees. So often the heroine is taken by potential and forgives too much. I appreciate that Margaret requires Dr Steele to actualize his potential.
Many thanks to Netgalley for this opportunity.
Many thanks to Netgalley for this opportunity.
June 25, 2023
this was fine. i liked the medical aspect, it seemed well-researched; not exactly sure if i bought the love story though, i thought the catching of feelings was a bit too rushed; also the writing was a bit too convoluted and archaic, but i guess i got used to it after a while. loved the sisters relationship though! and the supportive family!
October 6, 2020
This was my first story from author Collette Dixon but it will in no way be my last. I am a voracious reader when it comes to historical romance however there are very few - that I've read - set in the US. I'm so used to immersing myself in London, in the ton and amongst the dukes and aristocracy. So right off the bat this story was original to me.
This story was exceptionally well crafted. The research, the writing, the execution, it all conglomerated into a fantastic romance that not only had me falling in love with our dashing and mysterious Doctor hero but with our heroine. She is full of energy, inquisitiveness and tenacity. She's remarkably fearless, intelligent and utterly amazing, a woman striving to be a part of the medical field regardless of her sex and the push against her because of it . When you have a female protagonist on par with the hero, then you definitely have an immensely powerful and wonderful story.
If you love strong, multifaceted characters, an exciting and challenging storyline and a superb and swoony thread of love weaving through a tale of intrigue, mystery and redemption, then this story is the one for you.
This story was exceptionally well crafted. The research, the writing, the execution, it all conglomerated into a fantastic romance that not only had me falling in love with our dashing and mysterious Doctor hero but with our heroine. She is full of energy, inquisitiveness and tenacity. She's remarkably fearless, intelligent and utterly amazing, a woman striving to be a part of the medical field regardless of her sex and the push against her because of it . When you have a female protagonist on par with the hero, then you definitely have an immensely powerful and wonderful story.
If you love strong, multifaceted characters, an exciting and challenging storyline and a superb and swoony thread of love weaving through a tale of intrigue, mystery and redemption, then this story is the one for you.
November 2, 2020
Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Rinou
Review Copy from the Publisher
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3,5/5
The Heart of Doctor Steele takes place in 1845 in Massachusetts and features a hero who’s a pioneer in gynecological surgery. You can guess that at a time when seeing a feminine ankle was shameless, talking to a woman about her private parts was shocking, so imagine the reception for such a surgeon…
So here we have as hero John Steele who, after threats done by a female patient’s family, has been forced to hide and abandon his practice. He drowns his depression on alcohol, and refuses to socialize with his neighbors, but his meeting with the heroine and the arrival of a new patient on his doorstep are going to force him to begin to pull himself together. We then follow his journey to gain back his self-assurance and his trust in his practice, and the heroine is there to support him, to shake him, or even force him to face his problems.
Margaret is an intelligent heroine whose father always encouraged her thirst for knowledge, and she’s fascinated by medicine. She’s also obstinate and determined, so she isn’t frightened by the hero’s deliberately impolite behavior when they first meet, and she doesn’t hesitate either to apply at Harvard’s medicine university when only men are accepted. However she annoyed me when she was complaining because the hero hadn’t proposed, when a few days before she told him she never wanted to marry. How could he know it wasn’t true?
Between them the attraction is fast, but if you like novels with graphic sex scenes, there are only some deep kisses, and a few soft love scenes late in the book.
The hero’s profession is at the center of the story, and we assist at two times to an abdominal surgery described with lots of realism. The descriptions, if they’re not gory, are quite detailed and could disturb sensitive readers. They fascinated me, even if I’m really glad I was born after the anesthesia’s invention: during the first surgery, the hero puts one knee across the patient’s legs to prevent her from moving too much…
By the way it can seem strange that for this first surgery John doesn’t hesitate to ask for help a young woman he’s only seen three time, one of those at church, but 1) it’s a romance so they need to get closer and 2) she’s quite the only person he knows in the village. We also can recognize Margaret’s courage in this occasion, staying calm and holding the patient still during a surgery without general anesthetic, not everyone could do it!
The story about the hero’s problems is revealed slowly, Joh being afraid of Margaret’s reaction as he stopped believing in himself, but I liked how he’s finally forced to face his past and how the affair is solved, putting back in place in a satisfying way bigoted and jealous people.
The author’s notes at the end, about medicine and surgery at that time, pseudo-doctors, the discovery of what causes infections, were very interesting. And all in all I had a good reading time with this novel I recommend for its originality.
Reviewed by Rinou
Review Copy from the Publisher
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3,5/5
The Heart of Doctor Steele takes place in 1845 in Massachusetts and features a hero who’s a pioneer in gynecological surgery. You can guess that at a time when seeing a feminine ankle was shameless, talking to a woman about her private parts was shocking, so imagine the reception for such a surgeon…
So here we have as hero John Steele who, after threats done by a female patient’s family, has been forced to hide and abandon his practice. He drowns his depression on alcohol, and refuses to socialize with his neighbors, but his meeting with the heroine and the arrival of a new patient on his doorstep are going to force him to begin to pull himself together. We then follow his journey to gain back his self-assurance and his trust in his practice, and the heroine is there to support him, to shake him, or even force him to face his problems.
Margaret is an intelligent heroine whose father always encouraged her thirst for knowledge, and she’s fascinated by medicine. She’s also obstinate and determined, so she isn’t frightened by the hero’s deliberately impolite behavior when they first meet, and she doesn’t hesitate either to apply at Harvard’s medicine university when only men are accepted. However she annoyed me when she was complaining because the hero hadn’t proposed, when a few days before she told him she never wanted to marry. How could he know it wasn’t true?
Between them the attraction is fast, but if you like novels with graphic sex scenes, there are only some deep kisses, and a few soft love scenes late in the book.
The hero’s profession is at the center of the story, and we assist at two times to an abdominal surgery described with lots of realism. The descriptions, if they’re not gory, are quite detailed and could disturb sensitive readers. They fascinated me, even if I’m really glad I was born after the anesthesia’s invention: during the first surgery, the hero puts one knee across the patient’s legs to prevent her from moving too much…
By the way it can seem strange that for this first surgery John doesn’t hesitate to ask for help a young woman he’s only seen three time, one of those at church, but 1) it’s a romance so they need to get closer and 2) she’s quite the only person he knows in the village. We also can recognize Margaret’s courage in this occasion, staying calm and holding the patient still during a surgery without general anesthetic, not everyone could do it!
The story about the hero’s problems is revealed slowly, Joh being afraid of Margaret’s reaction as he stopped believing in himself, but I liked how he’s finally forced to face his past and how the affair is solved, putting back in place in a satisfying way bigoted and jealous people.
The author’s notes at the end, about medicine and surgery at that time, pseudo-doctors, the discovery of what causes infections, were very interesting. And all in all I had a good reading time with this novel I recommend for its originality.
November 22, 2020
I always look forward to read a historical romance, especially when it's the first book I read of that author. And when I saw that this novel appeared, based on the synopsis, to have drama, some darkness and, of course, a doctor... I was in.
In "The Heart of Doctor Steele" we follow Margaret Landeau and Dr. John Steele as they go through life, dealing with all the problems in their lives (including secrets, rumors and love). I actually may have liked Steele a lot more than Margaret, but still I absolutely loved getting to know them and their pasts as the story went along.
I also enjoyed the blunt approach in the story between the characters, that made it kind of refreshing, plus the open and detailed way medicine and medical procedures occur. The medical aspect made it very real and, in a way, dark. It also made me wonder about how things were back them and the change that may or may not have happened. Since the author as a background in the medical world, it makes sense that I felt the realism.
The characters were intriguing. I really liked Dr. Steele, he was a mystery that I enjoyed getting to know. Margaret, although sometimes I wanted to slap her, was quite entertaining and she gave me a view of the context of the story and allowed for some reflecting because of her thoughts. They are both intelligent and you can see there is kindness in them, but they do have flaws. That's the best part in a way. Although frustrating at times, the imperfections is what makes a character real. We all mess up, we all act childish occasionally, we all have run away at least once in our lives, and we all have tried to forget parts of our past.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. I enjoyed the way the plot went and the revelations along the way. I loved the thought provoking aspect related to the medical elements and the way women were treated back them. I had fun with the main characters interactions and how they grow with the story and with the changes.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Colette Dixon for the eCopy of this book, and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
In "The Heart of Doctor Steele" we follow Margaret Landeau and Dr. John Steele as they go through life, dealing with all the problems in their lives (including secrets, rumors and love). I actually may have liked Steele a lot more than Margaret, but still I absolutely loved getting to know them and their pasts as the story went along.
I also enjoyed the blunt approach in the story between the characters, that made it kind of refreshing, plus the open and detailed way medicine and medical procedures occur. The medical aspect made it very real and, in a way, dark. It also made me wonder about how things were back them and the change that may or may not have happened. Since the author as a background in the medical world, it makes sense that I felt the realism.
The characters were intriguing. I really liked Dr. Steele, he was a mystery that I enjoyed getting to know. Margaret, although sometimes I wanted to slap her, was quite entertaining and she gave me a view of the context of the story and allowed for some reflecting because of her thoughts. They are both intelligent and you can see there is kindness in them, but they do have flaws. That's the best part in a way. Although frustrating at times, the imperfections is what makes a character real. We all mess up, we all act childish occasionally, we all have run away at least once in our lives, and we all have tried to forget parts of our past.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. I enjoyed the way the plot went and the revelations along the way. I loved the thought provoking aspect related to the medical elements and the way women were treated back them. I had fun with the main characters interactions and how they grow with the story and with the changes.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Colette Dixon for the eCopy of this book, and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
August 10, 2020
This book is a fascinating glimpse into pre-civil war medicine, with a side of romance. The medical aspect of the book was extremely interesting - and terrifying. I cannot imagine undergoing a hysterectomy or cyst removal surgery without anesthesia. Of course the other treatments are equally horrifying - but still.
John Steele is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of women with what we would term gynecological issues. This book takes place before that was a specialty and when a man examining a woman below the waist was consider beyond impropriety. John is pioneering surgical treatment for large ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and adhesions. Because of what he is doing and some bad results of the surgeries - he has been vilified and has really sunk into a serious depression.
Margaret lives with her family next door to where John has moved to drink himself into oblivion. She is a very smart daughter of a professor. She is fascinated by medicine and wants to learn more. She sees John moving in as an opportunity to study medicine with him. And makes every effort to draw him out of his depression and back to life. She also assists him with a surgery to remove a 7lb cyst (OMG) shortly after meeting him. They are drawn together - and seem to quickly fall in love.
Overall - the book was very well written and historical detail was on point. The descriptions of the surgeries aren't for the faint of hear though! And if you struggle with cysts and fibroids or other related issues, this story might be triggering for you.
Fans of very accurate historical romance will enjoy this one for sure! The only reason I'm not giving this four stars is because it dragged somewhat - and I didn't always understand the motivations for the way Margaret was acting. Both she and John seemed a little over-the-top melodrama at times.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
John Steele is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of women with what we would term gynecological issues. This book takes place before that was a specialty and when a man examining a woman below the waist was consider beyond impropriety. John is pioneering surgical treatment for large ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and adhesions. Because of what he is doing and some bad results of the surgeries - he has been vilified and has really sunk into a serious depression.
Margaret lives with her family next door to where John has moved to drink himself into oblivion. She is a very smart daughter of a professor. She is fascinated by medicine and wants to learn more. She sees John moving in as an opportunity to study medicine with him. And makes every effort to draw him out of his depression and back to life. She also assists him with a surgery to remove a 7lb cyst (OMG) shortly after meeting him. They are drawn together - and seem to quickly fall in love.
Overall - the book was very well written and historical detail was on point. The descriptions of the surgeries aren't for the faint of hear though! And if you struggle with cysts and fibroids or other related issues, this story might be triggering for you.
Fans of very accurate historical romance will enjoy this one for sure! The only reason I'm not giving this four stars is because it dragged somewhat - and I didn't always understand the motivations for the way Margaret was acting. Both she and John seemed a little over-the-top melodrama at times.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
November 24, 2020
Margaret Landeau has a passion for healing and a terrible curiosity about their new neighbour. John Steele is an expert (for the time) at women's health, particularly surgery, at a time when women's problems were mysterious maladies to be treated with laudanum and bloodletting. However, his cutting edge (heh) surgical techniques make him unpopular with his peers and suspicious to the uninformed, so he retreats to his aunt's home, his reputation in tatters. If only his blasted, beautiful neighbour would leave him alone with his whiskey.
I'm not a huge fan of medical romances, but I am a sucker for historical romances, especially when they deal with the untitled common folk whose lives and problems are far closer to our own than the aristocracy of the day. Margaret faces institutionalised sexism in the medical industry and John is pit against the anti-medicine crowd who won't believe in ailments or treatments they do not understand.
I really enjoyed that while the attraction was there from the start, they grow to appreciate each other's minds. John does not denigrate or dismiss Margaret's dream of medical training and is in fact incredibly supportive, and Margaret does support John in his own troubles but insists that he also stand up to his problems and fight for their relationship. I did find her a bit inconsistent in the matter of Winsome Michaels and too easily swayed by rumour but this did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.
I will note that there is a bit of surgical gore, so faint-hearted, beware!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources, all opinions are my own.
I'm not a huge fan of medical romances, but I am a sucker for historical romances, especially when they deal with the untitled common folk whose lives and problems are far closer to our own than the aristocracy of the day. Margaret faces institutionalised sexism in the medical industry and John is pit against the anti-medicine crowd who won't believe in ailments or treatments they do not understand.
I really enjoyed that while the attraction was there from the start, they grow to appreciate each other's minds. John does not denigrate or dismiss Margaret's dream of medical training and is in fact incredibly supportive, and Margaret does support John in his own troubles but insists that he also stand up to his problems and fight for their relationship. I did find her a bit inconsistent in the matter of Winsome Michaels and too easily swayed by rumour but this did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.
I will note that there is a bit of surgical gore, so faint-hearted, beware!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources, all opinions are my own.
April 2, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley, the publishers and the author for an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This historical romance, set in the late 19th Century in Massachusetts was unexpected in its depth and well-researched dive into women's medical issues of the time.
Doctor Steele becomes the neighbour of the Landeaus, and Margaret Landeau is intrigued by the handsome man and wants to find out more about the scandal surrounding his self-imposed exile from the medical profession. Doctor Steele is drawn to both Margaret's attractiveness and her intelligence.
As he comes out of his shell and she learns more about medicine, a passion of hers, they overcome the townspeople's prejudice and try to forge a life with each other. But just when things look positive his past rears its ugly head.
Some of the descriptions of medical procedures in this book could be considered graphic but are period-appropriate. I think the characters are very well drawn and the emphasis on women's medical issues is rare and treated empathetically.
I would love to read more from this author as I really enjoyed this book.
This historical romance, set in the late 19th Century in Massachusetts was unexpected in its depth and well-researched dive into women's medical issues of the time.
Doctor Steele becomes the neighbour of the Landeaus, and Margaret Landeau is intrigued by the handsome man and wants to find out more about the scandal surrounding his self-imposed exile from the medical profession. Doctor Steele is drawn to both Margaret's attractiveness and her intelligence.
As he comes out of his shell and she learns more about medicine, a passion of hers, they overcome the townspeople's prejudice and try to forge a life with each other. But just when things look positive his past rears its ugly head.
Some of the descriptions of medical procedures in this book could be considered graphic but are period-appropriate. I think the characters are very well drawn and the emphasis on women's medical issues is rare and treated empathetically.
I would love to read more from this author as I really enjoyed this book.
December 23, 2020
Review:
Two genres I don’t usually see together – medical romance and historical romance. I thought this was an intriguing combination. I’ve never read a medical romance, so this was one I was interested to read.
The Heart of Doctor Steele has really fascinating characters. Doctor John Steele is an intriguing doctor. I really enjoyed his take on things. He felt very real. Margaret is also realistic and I really enjoy the build up of romance. I think it was well spaced out and it didn’t feel rushed.
I enjoyed this one. I am looking forward to reading more by Colette Dixon in the future.
Rating:
4/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
Two genres I don’t usually see together – medical romance and historical romance. I thought this was an intriguing combination. I’ve never read a medical romance, so this was one I was interested to read.
The Heart of Doctor Steele has really fascinating characters. Doctor John Steele is an intriguing doctor. I really enjoyed his take on things. He felt very real. Margaret is also realistic and I really enjoy the build up of romance. I think it was well spaced out and it didn’t feel rushed.
I enjoyed this one. I am looking forward to reading more by Colette Dixon in the future.
Rating:
4/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
November 2, 2020
3,5/5
Un roman historique avec un héros pionnier de la chirurgie abdominale féminine, c’est franchement original, et la partie médecine est particulièrement fascinante – et terrible (vive l’invention de l’anesthésie !). L’histoire d’amour est mignonne et l’héroïne est particulièrement volontaire.
Avis complet VO https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
VF https://www.tapatalk.com/groups/lesro...
Un roman historique avec un héros pionnier de la chirurgie abdominale féminine, c’est franchement original, et la partie médecine est particulièrement fascinante – et terrible (vive l’invention de l’anesthésie !). L’histoire d’amour est mignonne et l’héroïne est particulièrement volontaire.
Avis complet VO https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
VF https://www.tapatalk.com/groups/lesro...
March 18, 2021
Miscommunication as a plot device is boring af, especially when there is also nothing much happening in-terms of plot. The main couple would have an issue (one-sided, most of the time) and then it would be resolved within like 5 pages or less.
Also there was a bit of promising steam in the middle of the book but then it 100% fizzled out by the end. Fading-to-black is fine, but it felt edited out maybe due to length opposed to censure? Idk the ending was a bit abrupt.
Also there was a bit of promising steam in the middle of the book but then it 100% fizzled out by the end. Fading-to-black is fine, but it felt edited out maybe due to length opposed to censure? Idk the ending was a bit abrupt.
August 10, 2020
The Heart of Doctor Steele was a quick read; with real depth. Dr. Steele has lost everything until his neighbor Margaret steps into his life. She seeks to repair his reputation. Sweet novel of finding a way to stand up for yourself against all odds and triumphing.
August 24, 2020
This book hooked me from the get go I just couldn’t put it down I fell in love with these characters and omg what a story just a perfect read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
January 27, 2021
A helping hand
If you're into medical Dr's, and young ladies with a dream to go to Harvard
Medical school ,you,ll enjoy this
Story, it's wonderfully written, pages
After my own heart.
Thank you ❤
If you're into medical Dr's, and young ladies with a dream to go to Harvard
Medical school ,you,ll enjoy this
Story, it's wonderfully written, pages
After my own heart.
Thank you ❤
May 5, 2021
This is a rich, beautifully written, and emotional book with multi-faceted, engaging characters and wonderful historical detail, especially medicine and medical practices of the mid-19th century. Highly recommended!
Read
October 12, 2020I'm not going to rate this because I didn't finish....not good not bad. I might revisit and try again when I am in a different mood.
January 18, 2021
Super slow but cute read
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