This story which was emotional, sad and joyous too takes us into the world of orphanages in Britain in Victorian times and how hard life was for a great proportion of its people.
Gemma works as a nurse at the Foundling hospital. She considers herself lucky to get this job, and she knows she has to be careful not to overstep any of the rules and regulations governing her life as a single, unmarried woman. Her relationship with Detective Bell in its very early stages has to be kept secret as it can affect both their jobs. Her attachment to Lucy a little girl in the orphanage is viewed with suspicions causing distress to them both.
A body of a young girl, murdered in the laundry of the hospital begins an investigation which is fraught with difficulties. The Orphanage Matron wants it shoved under the carpet as an accidental death, not bringing any notoriety or press attention. Her focus more than on the safety of her charges, lies more with self preservation and keeping the sponsors happy.
Gemma from within the hospital has a better chance of obtaining clues as to who was responsible and despite the Detectives warning to stay clear, she pursues and gets clues which will link the very basic information they now have.
The murder and detective work was very well depicted, but it is the story of the orphanage its working, its rigidity and regulations that form the heart of the story.
Beautifully written.
Sent by Storm Publishing for an unbiased review, courtesy of Netgalley.
Orphanages back then were such sad places. But this book sounds really good.
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