I can honestly say this is one of the best books I’ve ever read.
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This book comes with no easy answers to the issues and themes it touches on, but I like that the author trusts the reader not to have everything wrapped up neatly by the end. You are left with questions in terms of the subject matter, but not when it comes to the story, which is expertly plotted, in my opinion.
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What an amazing, well-written novel. I can honestly say this is one of the best books I’ve ever read. A completely engrossing story about an unusual woman, Edith, and her psychiatrist, Dr. Maynard. The prose sets this book apart from all the others I read and forget. Such beautiful, poignant writing.
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Not a predictable ending or an enjoyable read but nonetheless compelling stuff.
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The plot kept me riveted to the end, what a twist. The descriptions of the various institutions and other locations made me feel that I was there observing events as they unfolded.
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One of the best books I’ve read for quite a while; it is superbly written, thought-provoking and says a lot about society’s attitude at the time.
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Incredibly immersive, thoroughly well researched. Engaging use of language. Strong characters. Complex twists & turns. Keeps you guessing until the very end. The best ending I have read for many years.
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A unique insight into the fallibility of the human mind. This book kept me reading late into the night as I attempted to untangle Edith’s story. Don’t waste time reading reviews – buy the book and settle down for a weekend’s reading. It will hold your attention to the very end.
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Well researched, but not overly descriptive, this book is really well plotted and written. The characters are interesting and multi-dimensional and the ending unexpected. A good insight into the treatment of WW1 shell victims and the psychology of the early 20th century. A great read.
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What I have been left with, after reading this book, is the equivalent of that feeling when you go over that hump back bridge in a car. This book just took me off my feet.
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I highly recommend you read this book, but it is brutal and heart wrenching so be forewarned.
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This is a thoroughly great historical look at mental health issues and a twisty psychological thriller combined. It is dark and scary and despite the despair I loved it.
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I loved this book, the story was brilliant and I was gripped! Stephen and Edith are great characters and work so well with the plot. The pace for the story, descriptive nature and setting in the late 1920s is great – I love historical fiction so books set in this era are normally a winner with me and this one is superb!!
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Truly this held my interest throughout . . . The descriptions of of the asylum and early mental health treatment was very well done. It was a sad story of a life wasted by those who were trusted with the main character’s care.
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I was lost in this book. The prose is elegant, the subject matter is emotionally visceral, and the answer to the mystery is brilliant. I rarely read with mouth agape, but this book’s conclusion found me there.
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Well written, prompting the reader to see what is not said. Dark and brooding.
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Having been set in the time in history that mental illness was something that was just beginning to be taken seriously and medical help only in its infancy, I was truly amazed by Ruth Wade and her ability to go so far into the actual conditions of the time. This story deserves to be read and then, read again!
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