Strong-minded and independent Julia Bernay comes to London to study medicine and become a doctor–a profession that has only just opened up to women. She witnesses a serious accident, and through her quick actions saves the life of an ambitious young barrister named Michael Stephenson.Coming from a family that long ago lost its money and its respectability, Michael Stephenson has achieved what … achieved what many would have thought was impossible. Hard work and an aptitude for the law have enabled him to rise above his family’s stigma and set him on the path to wealth and recognition. But his well-laid plans are upended when the accident brings Julia into his life.
Michael soon discovers he’s met a woman every bit as stubborn and determined to make her mark on the world as he is. Sparks fly–but will they find common ground?
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This was my first time reading a Jennifer Delamere novel, and I truly enjoyed this story! I listened to the audio version and the narrator was exceptional. It’s clear Jennifer did a great deal of research to give the story a wonderful backdrop. The characters were very unique, and the plot had several twists and turns. Very well done!
This is the first book by Jennifer Delamere that I have read and I absolutely adore this book! I need to backtrack and read The Captain’s Daughter, which is the first book in this series. This second installment can definitely be read as a stand-alone. Anyone who enjoys a well-written historical romance set in 1881 England will love this book. If you’re already a fan of Jennifer Delamere’s, then you’re in for a treat. If you’re not, this book will turn you into one!
The characters Michael and Julia are very real, flawed, and completely lovable. Michael, as a lawyer, is charming, upstanding, hard-working, and intelligent but needs his moral compass and his faith realigned. Julia, a nurse aspiring to matriculate into the women’s medical college, is compassionate, dedicated, straight-forward, stubborn, curious, and faithful. Her goal in life is to become a medical missionary to Africa and with this goal in mind, she presses forward, no matter the obstacle. Her faith carries her through many trials and tribulations and ends up helping quite a few people around her.
The plot is well-crafted and the infusion of faith is natural to the story. The setting of Victorian England is captivating and the story itself is totally engaging. As a physician myself, I have been intrigued by the history of women in medicine and the author highlighted so poignantly a segment of what women in the late 1800s went through to obtain their heart’s desire and calling.
I was given a copy of this book by the author/publisher and via Celebrate Lit Tour. I was not required to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Wonderful book!!
This was my first time reading a Jennifer Delamere novel, and I truly enjoyed this story! I listened to the audio version and the narrator was exceptional. It’s clear Jennifer did a great deal of research to give the story a wonderful backdrop. The characters were very unique, and the plot had several twists and turns. Very well done!
I loved how this book started out with a bang! I was instantly enthralled and invested in Julia and Michael. They are both strong and intense characters so it was interesting to get to know them as their deeper layers were revealed and they grew closer together. They had good chemistry, but the romance felt like it happened suddenly and I missed some of the development. The pace of the book slowed a few times and I could feel my interest begin to wane throughout the technical descriptions, but I was too curious how the story would come together in the end with so much conflict keeping them apart. I enjoyed many other characters in the book as well, even though some of them had sharp edges as they fight to make their way and follow their dreams. I appreciated learning more about the history of women in medicine and the struggle to be accepted as equals in a male-dominated field. The story wraps up nicely, but also leaves the reader with a bit of a cliffhanger, so I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series, which I assume will be the youngest sister Cara’s story.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
I really liked this second installment of Jennifer Delamere’s London Beginnings series. After reading the first book, The Captain’s Daughter, I couldn’t wait to see what Ms. Delamere had in store for Rosalyn’s sister Julia Bernay. I was not disappointed. The writing style is unique and the characters are well developed and endearing.
Julia Bernay is a nurse who has come to London to study to be a doctor in a time when women were not generally accepted as doctors. She plans on attending the women’s medical college there and finds that there is a lawsuit brought on by a member of the local aristocracy against the women’s medical college that may close it’s doors for good.
After an accident on the underground railway, Julia saves the life of barrister Michael Stephenson and even though he is one of the lawyers in the lawsuit against the college, he agrees to tutor Julia in Latin so she can pass her entrance exams into the college. During these tutoring sessions, they develop an attraction for each other against their better judgement.
What will become of the budding relationship between Julia and Michael if the college loses the lawsuit? What will become of the college and Julia’s dreams, which do not include marriage, of becoming a doctor and a missionary in Africa? I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys clean, Christian historical romance. Enjoy!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and the publisher, Bethany House Publishers, in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts I have given are purely my own and not influenced by anyone.
This one was just as good as the first one and really held my attention! I can’t wait for the next one!!
Julia Bernay may have been taken to an orphanage as a child but she is now an independent young woman who intends to overcome opposition and become a doctor! Julia is an exceptional character in a time when most people do not think women are smart enough to be doctors. Michael Stephenson is a young barrister who loves his sister and wants her to regain her desired social status. Julia plans to be a medical missionary in Africa but learns our mission field may be right where we are. The Heart’s Appeal was an excellent book which I recommend to others. The story was complete but I was left with a question at the end. I assume this will be the basis for the next book in the series. I received my copy of The Heart’s Appeal from Bethany House Publishers and author Jennifer Delamere. This is my honest opinion.
“She’d had an air of confidence and independence . . .Her unadorned clothing had only accentuated, rather than minimized how attractive she was.”
A first impression of the woman who had ended up saving Michael Stephenson’s life following an unfortunate accident on the Metropolitan Underground Railway. Her quick thinking and calm demeanor would leave him with merely a scar; and a distinct feeling that he would enjoy seeing this woman again, if only to determine why she would ever want to become a doctor.
Julia Bernay will not be dissuaded from her life’s calling, to become a physician and travel to Africa as a medical missionary. First things first; she must pass the entrance exam into the only London institution training female medical students; the London School of Medicine for Women. Latin has managed to be her Achilles heel, so when she visits the young aspiring solicitor whose life she saved on the train, she accepts a gift; a gift of Latin tutelage. If only Michael Stephenson wasn’t on the legal team trying to shut down the very program that would ensure her future.
Life becomes complicated as Julia’s faith and determination becomes a curious anomaly to an aspiring lawyer, who has considered sacrificing his own future happiness in order to elevate his family’s name into good stead again among London’s social elite. Not to mention, that a powerful earl will stop at nothing to thwart Julia’s dream. . . . . .”Solvitur ambulando – It is solved by walking.”
What a lovely story; with its impressive mix of history and story line, unique and endearing characters, and a deep, authentic inspirational undercurrent.
This story caught my attention from the first and kept me engrossed until the last line. This is the first story I’ve read by Jennifer Delamare, but I’m sure it won’t be the last. Although there is a prior book in this series, it can be read as a stand-alone.
Set against the backdrop of London, England in 1881, this book is rich in historical detail and replete with masterfully created characters that are realistic and engaging. Julia Bernay, the heroine, is a strong, independent, and courageously determined young lady pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor in a society that is not very supportive of women doctors. Michael Stephenson has worked hard, against the odds, to become a successful lawyer. When these two collide–quite literally—it creates an interesting friendship.
Woven expertly throughout the story is a message of hope, trust in God, and faith in his loving care and concern. I would recommend this to those who enjoy clean, Christian historical fiction. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
The Heart’s Appeal Tama what better thing than to fight for the life of someone else? Which is what Julia did for Michael – she is a medical student, he is a barrister hurt on a train. She saves his life. Now what happens after that? That, I’m not going to tell you, because I’m not going to be one of the ones to ruin it for you but I will tell you the book is about women’s rights, missionaries, Faith, forgiveness and not to judge before getting to know. Isn’t that right! This is 1 of the great ones – don’t let this slip through your fingers. I received a copy of this book from the Publisher and Netgalley; all of the opinions expressed in this review are all my own.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreivewers.blogspot.com
I loved this book! To see what women would have gone through to become doctors, and to see what was really expected of them was eye opening. And while this is book 2 in the series it really does standalone. Except now I want to go back and read book 1.
Author Jennifer Delamere created really good character. You will like some. Dislike others. Julia is meddlesome and strong willed. Michael loves his family and will do anything for them. Some are mean. Some are simply climbing the corporate ladder. A few want to help others. But all of them are well developed and seem real.
This book is not “fluffy”. In fact, parts of it are pretty stark and realistic. However God is woven throughout the story. I seriously couldn’t put it down. If you enjoy historical fiction then you will enjoy this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Have you ever had a character that you didn’t like in a book get their own story and change your mind about them? That happened to me with Julia Bernay. I like it when that happens because it represents hope for people. It shows that when we get to know someone’s story better, we can be surprised. I really enjoyed this story with its strong characters and romance, as well as a good historical setting. Full review is at my website. I was gifted this book by the author. I was not required to give a review. All of the opinions I have expressed are my own.
This is the second book in this series that I have read and enjoyed, and there is a third sister, so there is hope of another book.
Again, the author has set this read in 1870’s England, definitely a man’s world, and there are those that will do all they can to keep it as such.
Our heroine is a woman, Julia, who heart’s desire is to be a doctor, and she uses her skills to save the life of the man that is destined to help her, Michael.
There are twists and turns and several surprises and bombshells, and misguided intentions, but we hope for the Lord to work on these people’s hearts, and we are there to watch things unfold.
Now I wait patiently for the third sister, and her story.
I received this book through Net Galley, and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.
On a scale of cotton candy to Brussels sprouts, The Heart’s Appeal by Jennifer Delamere is a milk chocolate dipped marshmallow. It’s lovely sweet and melts across the tongue. But it’s good for the heart.
[Book received. Opinion my own.]
Julia Bernay has set her eye on entrance to the only school in London that admits females who want to become doctors. Her dream is to serve the Lord and the Africans with her medical skills. When she experiences a train crash, her entire world goes sideways. Can she be true to her dreams and her heart?
Jennifer Delamere highlights some of the struggles that female doctors surely had when women first entered the profession (and may still experience). Despite loving the historical aspect of this story, every dark moment seemed laced with sugar and a quick resolution. I found myself wanting more depth and grittiness from the main characters. I did really enjoy the hero’s internal conflict with his values of his profession and family.
If you love sweet stories without flawed characters, then The Heart’s Appeal is for you.
The Heart’s Appeal had such a wealth of history contained within its pages. I loved that Julia spent part of her childhood in one of the orphanages run by George Müller. Adding to the story the probable impact of being raised in this manner by such a man of faith was a great touch.
This story is a great mix of faith, history, and romance. The love the author has for the Lord and for history shines through bright and clear.
I really appreciate that the author didn’t attempt to take the easy road in the conflict of interest Michael experienced because of his attraction to Julia and the fact that he was obligated to assist the man who was trying to shut down the only medical school open to women. Additionally, during this conflict, more details about what was involved in being a barrister were shared.
Reading this book gave me a much greater appreciation for Women’s Suffrage than I had before. I have known of the inequalities between men and women but didn’t really understand the implications in the way that I do now.
While I hesitate in describing this book as “gritty”, that adjective comes to mind. Julia and Edith go to the slums of London to help and to gain medical experience in a clinic there and the circumstances and events that take place reveal deplorable conditions. With this book being about aspiring doctors, there is also quite a bit of discussion about diseases and the treatment of conditions that has the potential to affect people with weak stomachs (which would be me!) The entire story is not this way, but I felt this was worthy of mention so you would perhaps carefully pick the time when you read this. 🙂
This review was originally posted on AmongTheReads.net
You can read Jennifer’s guest post at AmongTheReads.net
I would like to thank Celebrate Lit for giving me this item. My opinion and review were not influenced by this gift.
How many of you have seen an accident and hesitated to stop and render aide? As we step back in time to the late 1880s we find a young woman who finds herself a witness to an accident. I loved how Julia did not hesitate to help the injured when disaster strikes. She is a very gifted and determined young woman. Her actions save the life of Michael Stephenson and another woman on that fateful day. I admire Julia for her quick thinking and confidence. Her desire to become a medical doctor is within her reach until something gets in her way. I always enjoy stories about women in a different time period who pursue a career that is frowned upon by some simply because they are female. Julia will have a battle to overcome and she will need strength and guidance to not let her dream be taken away.
Michael is thankful for Julia’s abilities to save his life after an accident happens. He is a true gentleman and wishes to pay his debt of gratitude to Julia. I loved how Julia was able to get Michael to help her with something that would direct her to becoming a doctor. Michael has a prestigious career as a barrister. He is ambitious and I really liked his energy to be the best at his job. It was very refreshing to read how Julia shared her faith with Michael. She reminds me of a gentle soul who cares for others without hesitation. What happens when Julia finds out that Michael could cause the school she wants attend to become a doctor be shut down?
Family is very important to both Julia and Michael. When things start to heat up with the upcoming court case, will Michael turn his back on Julia? I could feel the anguish from both of them. Their feelings for each other have grown strong but something may tear them apart. The story is like a magical scene of Lords and Ladies as they try to find their standing among the aristocrats. The author brings out a lovely look at the rich and famous during this time period in a way that captures the curiosity of many. I was stunned when the earl said to Julia “You’re another of those females who simply will not understand your place. You ought to get back home to your family ” I can assure you that did not sit well with Julia.
The story is very captivating and written with historical details that make the characters so realistic. You don’t want to miss this enchanting story of a very determined woman who wants to prove that women are qualified to do jobs that will help save lives and open doors for others to reach their destiny. The ending is one you don’t want to miss as the court decides if the London School of Medicine for Women will remain open or close their doors forever. Sparks fly between Julia and Michael as they find themselves on opposing sides What will the verdict be? You can find out by grabbing a copy of this mesmerizing story.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
The Heart’s Appeal (2018) by Jennifer Delamere is the second book in her London Beginnings series This story is available in all forms including eBook, and is 384 pages in length. With a full-time job and a very busy five-year old, this book took me four days to read. I received a review copy of this novel in paperback form from Bethany House Publishers. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give this book 5 STARS. This story is a Christian Historical Romance set in London, England in 1881.
I really enjoyed the first novel in this series, The Captain’s Daughter, and highly recommend it, but The Heart’s Appeal, for me, is the better book. This story has everything — excellently created characters, fantastic historical settings and references, an excellent call to share the Gospel with others, romance, action, and a bit of suspense. I devoured this story, and hated when I had to put it down.
Both Julia and Michael have a plan. Julia will scrimp and save, study hard, and get into medical school. She will then become a missionary doctor and go to Africa where she can spread God’s Gospel message, but also heal bodies. Michael is going to become one of the greatest barristers London has ever seen. He is going to marry a lady of excellent standing, and he is going to be wealthy. Both Julia and Michael will see their plans through no matter what! BUT GOD…has other plans. I absolutely loved this set-up because I can totally relate to both Julia and Michael. Man, did I have plans when I was a teenager/young adult. I was going to college no matter what. I was going to get my bachelors, masters, and my teaching credential no matter what. I was going to become a professor of English and teach at a great university no matter what. I imagined, back then, that I would meet the man of my dreams at college, court for a year or two, get married, have four babies, and live happily ever after. I was sure that God wanted all of this for me. BUT GOD…had other plans. Some of my dreams came true. Some of them came true quickly. Some of them came true so late after I had originally made the plans that I was sure God was telling me, “NO!” And many of my dreams never came true. At the time, achieving my goals and losing some of my dreams felt like some of the best and worst times in my life. At some points, I questioned if God even liked me. BUT, as a 38 year old woman looking back, I can only smile. God’s plans for me were/are better than anything I could have ever dreamed, and I can see exactly where God was at every point in my life. The same is true for Julia and Michael in this book. At the end, when they look back at how God worked everything out, they could only smile and thank Him so much. It’s such a funny human quality that we think we know better than God!
What else did I love about this book?! How about everything. LOL!
The plot is excellently written. I was SO thoroughly engaged that at one point my daughter was talking to me for about five minutes before I even realized my sweet girl was standing in front of me. One aspect that made the plot so good, to me, I were the few medical scenes in this book. They were fascinating! Don’t worry, they are not overly graphic and gross, but they are so educational. It was so cool to see what practiced medicine was becoming in 1881. At one point, Julia rushes to a not-so-excellent part of town in London to attend a birth. She is horrified by the dirtiness of the room because of her latest studies in germ theory. Of course, we know so much about germs today, but it was a burgeoning field of study in the 1880s. I enjoyed watching Julia’s reaction to this germ-filled environment. I particularly appreciated how she adapted to her surroundings and made the best choices possible even though her surroundings were not the best place to perform medical procedures.
There is so much more I could say about this book, but I am afraid I would get too excited and spill some beans! Suffice it to say, this book needs to be experienced. I highly, highly recommend The Heart’s Appeal. If you are looking for a fantastic historical fiction to escape into, then I recommend running to your nearest bookstore and purchasing a copy of this book today. It’s SO good!!!