Likes: the spunky & determined main character Louisa, who wants things out of life that Victorian women just don't get to have, the stark portrayal of life in an asylum, the lesbian love interest, the fact that there is a lesbian love interest in a story set in the Victorian era, the conclusion.Also: sometimes that stark portrayal of life in an asylum is a bit hard to read, the family's response to a spunky Victorian tomboy was truly maddening, and it read pretty YA (which, of course, is what it is). What's truly terrifying about this book is not what the main character goes through, being sent to an asylum simply for being a woman who wants better for herself than the essential servitude of marriage, it's that this was a very real threat and part of our history. The supporting themes of class, "traditional" female roles, lesbianism, and mental health are beautifully interwoven to create a strong story with a far from quaking female character. But by no means is this a joyous read with a happy ending. It's excellent writing, but a difficult story due to the real life Louisas given the same disgraceful treatment.
Do You like book Mein Herz So Wild (2000)?
I Love books about 19th century Asylums & this one didn't disappoint. Great story.
—Megan
I was okay. It was really confusing. Not really sure what to day
—beethebear
Good book, but I have to say it did give me nightmares...
—mrsmontalvo
