Lead Review (The Midwife)
- Book: The Midwife
- Location: London, Northumberland
- Author: Tricia Cresswell
Two stories unfold, one in London, one in Northumberland. In London 1840s Dr Borthwick tends to pregnant women, together with his midwife, Mrs Bates. He is harbouring a secret which will clearly be exposed as the stories evolve.
In 1838 Joanna is discovered on the Moors, near death, and is taken in by a family. She has no memory of her previous life, but she can speak French and is skilled in midwifery. Her talents are put to good use in the poor, provincial community.
This is nice storytelling with heart and competence, and insights into birthing and medical procedures of the era. The stories naturally dovetail later in the novel. The pace of the novel can, at times, be a little uneven but the depth of research counterbalances the trajectory and makes for an informative and interesting read.
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