Eric Stone
3.75 Stars. This period of historical fiction doesn't usually appeal to me, but I wanted to read an account of historical women's oppression written by a woman.
About 40% of the way through, I noted that the characters weren't quite distinct enough to tell apart. I still think that’s a fair criticism, but I’m pleased to report that the story itself really came into its own after that point. Inspired by true events, this is a tale that cannot be told enough. It’s a stark example of how far we’ve come, but also a reminder of how far we have to go.
Specifically, the way the book handles the "Hysteria" diagnosis of the late 1800s - and how the ruling class used it as an acceptable tool of control - is great food for thought. It's impossible not to draw parallels to modern injustices that are still viewed as "acceptable" by society today.
The story had some solid twists that felt grounded enough to maintain immersion. Overall, it’s a quick read and a powerful reminder of the systems man is capable of building to keep others down.
3.75 Stars. This period of historical fiction doesn't usually appeal to me, but I wanted to read an account of historical women's oppression written by a woman.
About 40% of the way through, I noted that the characters weren't quite distinct enough to tell apart. I still think that’s a fair criticism, but I’m pleased to report that the story itself really came into its own after that point. Inspired by true events, this is a tale that cannot be told enough. It’s a stark example of how far we’ve come, but also a reminder of how far we have to go.
Specifically, the way the book handles the "Hysteria" diagnosis of the late 1800s - and how the ruling class used it as an acceptable tool of control - is great food for thought. It's impossible not to draw parallels to modern injustices that are still viewed as "acceptable" by society today.
The story had some solid twists that felt grounded enough to maintain immersion. Overall, it’s a quick read and a powerful reminder of the systems man is capable of building to keep others down.
