Isobel’s past is difficult for some to accept but it is surprising what goes on behind the closed doors of others. This puts more stress on the relationship between Will and his father. The revelations which come to light after the tragic death of his brother Edward in India throw a huge curveball into the lives of Isobel, Will and his family and lead to a great deal of soul searching for the family. I have read a number of this author’s books and she excels at interweaving deep characterisations with an emotional and stirring plot line. All is seen through the eyes of Will and Isobel whose love manages to hold everything together despite all of the many difficulties that come to pass – cue you will need a handkerchief! Isobel in particular is one strong character and the couple are well matched in terms of wisdom and strength. The book delves deeply into relationships between the sexes and between social classes – not solely the relationship between the couple, but those between other family members and wider society. The book can be read as a stand-alone but I recommend that you pick up the first book to get the most of this most emotional and page turning read.

I just loved this latest release from Lorna Peel! A Suitable Wife, set in 1881, continues the story of the Dublin doctor Will and his wife Isobel who we first meet in A Scarlet Woman. A stirring and heartfelt read with colourful characters

A Suitable Wife by Lorna Peel