Oh this sounds like a tough subject matter. That's too bad about the clunky prose. I think given the horrific subject matter I'd want the writing to really pull me in and fly by.

You already know I pretty much felt the same way as you about this one. Especially about that ending! It was way too conveniently wrapped up for my tastes. But I did like many of the characters Charlotte met in the asylum.

Novels on this subject are scarier and more horrifying than novels by Stephen King. Women in those institutions were often sexually abused and otherwise mistreated after being parked there, as you say, because they were "inconvenient" to their husbands.

I still vividly remember that old Jessica Lange movie, Frances, about movie star Frances Farmer whose mental problems saw her locked up - and abused while being "treated" for mental illness. And that was in the 1930s, not the 1890s.

Such an interesting topic! Too bad the book didn't live up your expectations. Clunky writing can just make it tough to get through.

Nice, honest review Susan. This sounds like a tough topic to read, but the writing itself might not take it to the top. I like to be shown and picture something, so not sure if this author is for me or now. Great share.