The second instalment of this series was an easy read, quick and fluid... but slightly disappointing and underwhelming.

The book felt a bit detached and lacked the emotional undercurrent the first book had. Several side plots packed more of an emotional punch than Hazel’s main story— like the incident with Florence or the story of Charlotte. But, the book felt a bit shallow and rushed, with not a lot happening until the last 30%. It was incredibly slow on the uptake, dragging out aspects of the story that felt unnecessary and amounted to nothing. So, with everything occurring in the final third meant the ending felt rushed and incomplete. I just feel rather underwhelmed and unsatisfied, unfortunately.

Especially with the romance. The romance in book one was achingly beautiful, so convincing and gut-wrenching... here it felt like an after thought. I was just waiting for Jack’s reappearance and found that his character was done a severe disservice. He felt so one-dimensional. Blink and you miss him, honestly.

But I appreciate the historicism— as an avid reader and lover of romanticism, I adored all of the references and the eye for detail Schwartz has in her books. Truly a phenomenal elegance that just adds a touch of realism to the story. It’s what initially drew me in and made me love the first book.

So, while this book was beautifully crafted, it lacked feeling and emotion more than anything. I can see there’s potential for a third book but I hope Schwartz just leaves the story here. Honestly, I feel like Anatomy should have been left as a standalone despite how tragic the ending was, it was incredibly moving with a hint of hope to make you feel satisfied with the ending. This book just... didn’t add much to the pre-existing narrative unfortunately.

Hazel Sinnet is a forced to be reckoned with though. Her character is just wonderful, and ultimately why this is a settled three stars for me.

A worthy sequel to Anatomy: A Love Story (one of my favourite books last year).
Secrets, mortality, royalty scandals and medicine. Hazel Sinnett is a fierce, feminist heroine whose resilience and perseverance gives this book an emotional depth I wasn't expecting. I absolutely flew through this book, and can't wait to buy a physical copy when it comes out due to that gorgeous cover.