A remarkable new voice in American fiction enchants readers with a moving and uplifting novel that celebrates the miracle of life. In The Midwife of Hope River, first-time novelist Patricia Harmon transports us to poverty stricken Appalachia during the Great Depression years of the 1930s and introduces us to a truly unforgettable heroine. Patience Murphy, a midwife struggling against disease, … disease, poverty, and prejudice—and her own haunting past—is a strong and endearing character that fans of the books of Ami McKay and Diane Chamberlain will take into their hearts, as she courageously attempts to bring new light, and life, into an otherwise cruel world.
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Very much enjoyed this book set in Appalachia which is a very poor region of the United States. Midwife had obstacles to over come as well as a surprise at the
end of the book.
Could not put this book down. The characters are so very brave & human, the stories about midwifery are both wonderful & sad. A very human story about the best & the worst of us.
Its been a while since I read it but recall that I liked it very much and liked character development. I know this is not a strong recommendation particularly , but I would read other books by this author.
Great read! Enlightening story of the Great Depression…
I truly enjoyed this book. Hated to have to put it down to live my own life! Surprises throughout the book that will keep your interest and your heart will fill with grief on one page and joy on another. Felt like I was right there with her experiencing all she went through. Patricia Harman is a suburb storyteller! Lookig forward to reading the …
Great story!
Historical fiction at its best, reading it was a learning, loving experience.
Very interesting and easy to read. Historic way of life shown.
I was quickly drawn into the the midwife’s life and anxious to read more. The reveal of her past and how that played into the present was well done. The author illuminated that era very well. A book that gave you a lot to think about. Hope River Series, Book 1
I learned, I laughed, I cried, but most of all I was deeply impressed by the artistry of the midwife and her central role in women’s lives prior to the advent of commercialized, institutionalized medicine. This novel will live in my heart for years to come.
A luminous novel of new beginnings, loss, love…and yes hope! Patricia Harman’s all-too-human stories of birth mingle with the harsh realities of rural life in the 1930s…A thoroughly satisfying read by a talented storyteller.
The Midwife of Hope River…is still on my mind days after finishing. From start to satisfying conclusion, it is a beautifully imagined novel, a marvel of a debut, rich with fully realized characters and events. This is one I’ll read again, more slowly next time.
The characters quickly grow to be your friends and you are lost in their world. You won’t want the book to end and will be eager to read the next one!
Read a while ago and liked it. Am now reading The Reluctant Midwife by same author and am loving it. Will read all her books.
Great read, down to earth story that reflects how life can be!
Wonderful book!