Helpful Score: 2
First time author for me. Enjoyed the historical setting of Crimean War and the beginning of modern day nursing w/Florence Nightingale. Very interesting descriptions of front line conditions in hospitals and the harsh conditions the women suffered through to pursue their dreams of helping others. Also, a nice underlying love story. Good read.
Helpful Score: 2
I just adore Julia Gregson's writing. It's historical fiction for strong women, with just a little bit of romance thrown in - though that's truly not the focus. She really digs deep into the atmosphere, the characters and does a terrific job of making you feel as if you have been transported. This novel centers on Florence Nightingale's nurses, and can actually be pretty dark at times. It features some graphic and detailed descriptions of the wounded, and of living conditions, mistreatment, etc that some of the early nurses encountered.
Two of my favorite genres--historical fiction and romance meet in this one. Very good.
