A review by katietotallybooked
The Girl in His Shadow by Audrey Blake

informative tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

 My first pick for my library branch’s adult book club was The Girl in His Shadow by Audrey Blake. As a historical fiction novel set in Victorian-era England I figured it was a safe bet to start with. I love historical fiction and based on some of the books the Book Club has read in the past, I thought it would be still in the comfort zone of the members. I was right! We all enjoyed it and gave it a rating ranging from 3-4 stars.

I had no idea until after I finished reading the book that Audrey Blake is a pseudonym for two authors - Jaima Fixsen and Regina Sirois. I could not tell this was the case at all from the writing. The book had a great flow with richly-detailed writing and evocative storytelling. Nora Beady is a strong, intelligent, and powerful character to read about. I felt connected to her journey throughout the novel. There were parts of the story that really gripped me and I was compelled to keep reading. However, the writing lacked some of the emotion that I connect with most in my favourite historical fiction novels is reflected in my lower rating. I don’t feel drawn at this time to pick up more of Audrey Blake’s novels either - not even the sequel to this one which is very telling to me in regards to my enjoyment level of the book.

All in all it was still an interesting read and it was very eye-opening about the medical field in 1845 England. I am not surprised at all by the dynamic between men and women that was portrayed. I can only hope that we have made meaningful strides towards change in the 181 years since.

I recommend this book to historical fiction readers who enjoy Victorian era novels and have an interest in medical science, history, and novels with strong female protagonists.