Reviews
“The Beauty Doctor by Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard is a compelling historical novel steeped in mystery with strong elements of a medical thriller…The setting in New York City is excellently done and readers will enjoy this tale from the moment Abigail is introduced to New York high society and her subsequent involvement with Dr. Rome. The prose is elegant and the dialogue exciting. Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard creates very compelling characters and the emotional as well as the moral implications of the story are well explored. Great pacing, gripping plot, and very suspenseful. It is an engaging read.” —READERS’ FAVORITE Book Review
“I liked this story. It kept me reading and did not disappoint . . . I would recommend this book as an easy read, with an interesting plot and insight into the practice of medicine in the early twentieth century.”—HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY Book Review
“I read The Beauty Doctor and really enjoyed it. Some great research! A fascinating read.”
—MEGAN CHANCE, bestselling author of historical fiction including Bone River,Inamorata, and A Splendid Ruin
“A fine historical tale that veers from recorded history into scientific and almost supernatural considerations that are handled plausibly, deftly, with the real possibilities treated carefully and full of introspective considerations. The narrative is tightly woven and compelling, moving at a fast pace while still allowing the reader to experience a true depth of characterization as they develop a full appreciation of the events as they take place.” —JUDGE, Fifth Annual Writer’s Digest Awards
“A fantastic work of historical fiction. If I could have scored it higher than five stars, I would have.”— READERVIEWS.com
“The changing role of women in Edwardian society and America’s struggle to define a new morality for the twentieth century are uniquely explored in this memorable and truly original story. Elizabeth Hutchison Bernard has created a stunning cast of characters that will stay with readers for a long time.”
—MARCIA FINE, award-winning author of historical fiction including Paris Lamb, Paper Children, The Blind Eye and Hidden Ones: A Veil of Memories
“An interesting and unexpected story line that will keep readers wanting to know what happens next.”
—JOAN KRON, award-winning filmmaker (“Take My Nose…Please!”); author of Lift: Wanting, Fearing and Having a Facelift; Contributing Editor, Live Box magazine; former Contributing Editor-at-Large, Allure magazine
“As a plastic surgeon and a woman, I was fascinated by this tale that reflects on the early days of cosmetic surgery and the many ways in which human beings search for beauty and purpose in their lives. I loved the story from the very first chapter!”
—LAURIE A. CASAS, MD, Senior Clinical Educator (Plastic Surgery), University of Chicago Pritzer School of Medicine
“I loved The Beauty Doctor! One you don’t want to miss!”
—THE READER’S HANDBOOK
“A thrilling novel. This intriguing story follows Abigail Platford as she works alongside a New York City beauty doctor in 1907, which ultimately makes Abigail question everything she knows.”
—IMAGES ARIZONA Magazine
“The Beauty Doctor is a fascinating look at early 1900s New York society. The book takes a potent look at class structure, gender equity, and ethical questions of science. Abigail is naïve enough to engage with the duplicitous Dr. Franklin Rome, but self-possessed enough to question his motivation. When Rome partners with an enterprising and questionable investor to create a beauty institute, the novel takes a dark and dramatic turn. The beauty doctor is historical fiction meets macabre thriller.”
—I SMELL SHEEP Book Reviews
“Has all the elements of a great book…intriguing and well-written storyline, and lovely time period. I look forward to reading more books from this author.”
—CHERYL’S BOOK NOOK
“I thought The Beauty Doctor had a very interesting and unique premise, and the book was very well researched. The writing flowed extremely well, and the dialogue and settings stayed true to the historical setting. An enjoyable read, worthy of a B.R.A.G. Medallion.”
–REVIEWER, B.R.A.G. Medallion
“The Edwardian era is a fascinating period to explore ideas of beauty and power and showcase the history of medicine at a time when it was truly in flux. A great backdrop for this intriguing drama!”
—LAUREN MARKEWICZ, MA, Public Historian
