Valerie S. (VolunteerVal) - reviewed on 11/3/2021 + 646 more book reviews

"We all have monsters within." - Lost in Darkness by Michelle Griep

This is such a unique and interesting novel, especially in the Christian fiction genre. Lost in Darkness by Michelle Griep is a Regency-era Gothic romance that imagines events which could have inspired Mary Shelley to write Frankenstein. In fact, each chapter begins with an excerpt from Frankenstein. Ms. Griep's novel is dark, moody, and atmospheric, perfect for October reading.

The premise: Amelia, 27 and single, is a travel writer who's been awarded an all-expenses-paid trip to Cairo by her employer. Her excitement is quashed when she learns her estranged father has died and she's appointed guardian for Colin, her 21-year-old brother. As their father's last wish, Colin will soon undergo major (and questionable) surgery to "cure" his unusual appearance resulting from childhood facial burns and acromegalia.

During Colin's daily pre-surgery treatments, he and Amelia form a friendship with Mr. Lambert, a physician with a kind heart and deep personal regrets. It's quickly evident that Mr. Peckwood, the surgeon who's eager to operate on Colin, cares more about his fame and prestige for curing "unfortunates" rather than the health and safety of his patients.

This novel explores the often barbaric care and treatment of individuals with mental health disorders and physical illnesses in the early 19th century. It was difficult to read some chapters, and I had a growing concern for Colin as the story progressed. Ms. Griep excels at creating characters readers feel strongly about, whether those feelings are positive or negative. I especially enjoyed the secondary characters in this novel.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

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