At the start of the
story, Isabelle Larkin exemplifies all the attributes that the
society of 1875 felt most desirable. She was a well-brought-up young
woman who, although she did not agree with her mother, did what her
parent and society demanded. She was engaged to Gregory, a young man
looking to start a career in politics helped by Isabelle’s family
connections. Isabelle felt she was lucky and doing the right things
for a successful life.
However, Isabelle’s
path is not to be smooth. She witnesses Gregory commit a murder and
refusing to marry him is now in fear of her life. She finds refuge in
Bellevue, a sanatarium, the same one Mrs. Lincoln was committed to by
her son. The two women become supportive of each other and Isabelle
finds the courage to face Gregory’s misdeeds.
The book is
primarily a romance although the events are driven by the murder.
Isabelle is not in a position until the very end to try to figure out
the secrets behind the murder, so the book is not really a mystery.
The historical background is accurate. Bellvue was a real sanatarium
in the 1800s and did house Mrs. Lincoln.
I found the
characters rather flat. Isabelle seems unable to decide to act for
herself until the end making her seem a weak character. However, this
may be due to the author’s feeling that that would be what the
period required.
The writing was
fair. I dislike dialog used to convey information. This happened
fairly often with Isabelle. The historical detail was well done, but
I couldn’t get interested in the characters. If you enjoy
historical romance, this is a quick read.
I received this book
from Net Galley for this review.
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