BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'A New Doctor At Orchard Cottage Hospital' by Lizzie Lane

I really enjoyed this extremely beautifully written historical novel which is a fantastic introduction to what promises to be a great series. With a storyline filled with friendship, war, medicine, women, prejudice, romance, drama and everything you could ask in an intriguing page turner you will be hooked from the beginning to the end. I have yet to read an historical novel where the protagonist is a female doctor and I was fascinated as well as angered by the disgraceful attitudes many males had towards females of the time. It is absolutely rammed with emotions that will make you smile, cry and laugh on thi historical roller-coaster ride. Lizzie has done an immense amount of research and brings Frances's story to life along with Orchard Cottage Hospital, the surroundings and all of the other characters. I was absolutely fascinated with not just the storyline itself which I found to be unique but also all the historical facts and information included in the storyline. The fact that she made the main protagonist female living during the war and in a time where, although women were doing the same roles that men would have done they were still not seen as being able to do a males role to the same standard and the discrimination and prejudice that Frances receives, especially from certain horrid characters is absolutely disgraceful but true to those times. My heart broke but at the same time soared at the end of this beautiful story filled with romance, passion, war, love, prejudice determination and just absolutely everything you could ask for in an emotional rollercoaster page turning historical novel. This is one of those fascinating and intriguing page turners that I was just absolutely hooked to and could not put down!! Each time I even thought about putting it down something happened and I just had to know what happened next so I ended up picking it back up and devouring it in one sitting of several hours. I am pleased that this is just the start of what promises to be an absolutely fantastic and addictive series and I cannot wait to get stuck into the next book in this series! An absolutely fascinating read that can be read curled up under a blanket or while relaxing on the beach as regardless of where you read this book Lizzie's fantastic evocative writing skills ensures the readers are transported back to the 1900's and into beautiful Somerset.


Each of the characters in the book came completely to life thanks to Lizzie's amazing evocative writing skills and although I could not stand several of them, there were characters that were absolutely amazing and unforgettable!! Our main protagonist is the amazing Frances Brakespeare who I absolutely adored and became completely invested in her immediately. She is such an amazing and strong protagonist who is caring and determined!! My heart went out to her and I was rooting for her from the very moment I met her and I cannot wait to meet her again and again in this amazing series!! These amazing and eclectic characters made me angry, joyful, sad, blissful, hopeful and so, so much more in between!!! They most definitely wont be forgotten by me anytime soon!! Lizzie does an amazing job building up each of these truly amazing characters and her fantastic evocative writing skills brings each and every one of them to life. Regardless of whether you love or hate the characters one thing is certain and that is that Lizzie has the talent to bring them out of the pages so you feel you are surrounded by them as you walk along next to them all in this beautiful book.

Congratulations Lizzie Page on all your historical research and for writing this amazing story. I cannot wait to get stuck into more of your amazing books especially the next one in this series!!!

Overall an absolutely fantastic start to what promises to be an addictive series!

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A New Doctor at Orchard Cottage Hospital by Lizzie Lane takes us to Somerset, England in 1930. Women doctors were a rarity, and they were not treated as peers by their male counterparts. Unfortunately, women were seen as inferior to men. Frances Brakespeare is a strong, independent, and intelligent woman. When she becomes the new physician at the Orchard Cottage Hospital, it will take her time to overcome resistance. There were some good characters and I enjoyed getting to know them. Of course, there were some unpleasant ones as well (I want to see one get his just desserts). The story was easy to read. I thought the author captured the time period. There was one thing that I thought dragged on a little too long (when it was finally revealed, my thought was it’s about time). The ending was abrupt (I flipped back and forth going, “that’s it”). There were a couple of plot lines that were not resolved by the conclusion (which is frustrating). I am hoping that these dangling threads will be picked up in the next book. The author’s vivid descriptions of Somerset allowed me to picture the quaint town (I would love to visit). It will be interesting to see what happens next.

I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.

This is a historical saga set in the 1930s, and it's the first in a series. At the beginning, we meet Dr Frances Brakespeare, who moves to a country town in Somerset.

When I first started reading this, I felt something about the atmosphere and the general tone of the writing was quite poignant, and that made me feel compelled to keep reading.

I immediately felt a connection with Frances. She seemed to possess a kind of inner strength that I admired. There were some characters that I liked, and some that I disliked, or at least, I disliked their standoffish attitudes towards Frances. That only increased my desire to see her succeed in her endeavours.

As I read on, I warmed to the countryside setting, forming images of it in my mind, as it was brought to life by the author. I enjoyed following Frances on her journey as a doctor, and it seemed that in the end, what I wanted most was for her to be happy, as well as successful.

I found this quite a light read, and it was touching, but heartwarming at the same time. If you like historical sagas, you may want to give this a try.

Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.

Straightaway I knew Frances was my sort of character - caring, strong, resilient and determined, despite her own losses and heartache, she works to help others.

I love how she stands up for herself, despite the criticism and sexism faced, as this is the start of a new series, I am looking forward to seeing Frances and the hospital/towns growth.

This is a heartwarming read, with some endearing characters (and some not so!) and in such an idyllic setting, I could completely visualise the setting.

I started this around 9:00 pm but before I knew it, it was 3:30 am. I couldn't put it down. I forced myself to put it down. I would never get up at this rate.

I have read a few of Lizzie Lane's books. I have enjoyed everyone. This is no exception. I really liked Frances Isabelle Brakespeare. She had spunk. She studied hard to be a doctor after suffering a terrible loss. She was apprehensive about taking the position at Orchard Cottage Hospital.

Frances barely could take a breather when she arrived at the hospital. She soon learned that she had much to learn about the community and the residents of this town.

A New Doctor at Orchard Cottage Hospital is set in Somerset in 1930. Women are at this time still not valued as doctors, and have to put up with the men and the system devaluing them.

Driven by such male chauvinistic behaviour Frances obtains a job in a cottage hospital. This is through women who know where to pull the right strings. She settles in and soon proves she is more than capable.

She is given a place to live - near the vicarage where she soon has a friendship with a very understanding vicar. She makes friends too with the two local nurses. Frances sets about modernising things and while drawing ire upon herself is successful.

There are other minor characters who play a role in underlining the chauvinism of the day and not least of all the manager at the local mine.

I really liked Frances and the way she approached her life, and I liked many of the other characters. As well I enjoyed the story.

I did feel somewhat disappointed that the various plot lines were not totally brought to a satisfying conclusion and some things were just left hanging. One of those books you come to the end unexpectedly and say "What, is that all there is!?" It is evidently the start of a new series so perhaps there is to be more? If so I would certainly read on to the next one.

A new saga series and we know a saga book is one of my go to genres! Lizzie Lane knows how to grab your attention and reel you in with her writing. Frances Breakspere has to leave the Dr role she is in and find a new job elsewhere and female Drs were very few in the time this was written. Frances finds a job but is met with lots of obstacles along the way. A great book in a new series and I can't wait to read the next one.

This is the first book by Lizzie Lane that I've read, and I'm happy to discover this new historical series. This is a character-driven historical fiction, a tale of loss and courage, professional challenges and fulfilment.
Loved the story setting, it gave me the vibes of Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman.Though the setting is different (both the historical period and country), it also addresses the issue of gender, and the obstacles professional women faced in the male-dominant world. Both doctors are strong characters, who need to fight against prejudices.

A New Doctor at Orchard Cottage Hospital is a beautiful evocative story, full of secrets and emotions, with a likeable protagonist and lashings of romance to come. Utterly compelling.

Review is part of the blog tour with Rachel's Random Resources.

I really enjoy this story and it had many likeable characters. I enjoyed that it was set in a village where everyone knows each other. The main character of Frances, as a woman doctor, came up against much prejudice from some males. However, she did have her supporters and she was strong willed and determined. I liked that there were resolute women in all sections of society, who didn’t hesitate in expressing their opinions or taking action. There are a number of men who think they have the right to do as they wish. A number of issues are unresolved but I assume as this is the first in a series, they will be resolved in future books. This was a lovely read, it had a real sense of community and friendship. I look forward to reading more in this series. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A New Doctor at Orchard Cottage Hospital is a women’s fiction story dealing with women’s rights to have equal treatment and pay in a male dominated work field. By Lizzie Lane this looks closely at Frances Brakespeare who also has experienced social status prejudice in her life. Her adopted mother instilled in her the skills needed to survive and live a life independently from social bias. A true women’s suffragette novel.

The writing was well done with the beginning being dismal for Frances. Stick with the story as this survivor finds ways to thrive despite the struggles she faces in the 1930’s. A character that you cheer for and become invested in seeing her become successful. There are supporting characters who friendship enhances her life and the story. Read today a story that will make you shout, “You go, girl! Never give up!”

A New Doctor at Orchard Cottage Hospital is the first novel in a brand new series for historical author, Lizzie Lane.

We meet the new doctor, Frances Brakespeare who is the first female doctor in the town! Can she make her mark especially past all the naysayers on the hospital committee? Fortunately, she has a couple of allies in the form of lady of the manor, Minty and Gregory, the vicar.

Another captivating read from Lizzie; her attention to detail is fabulous along with the way she develops her characters to be so relatable.

Join me on this journey to Somerset!

Thoroughly enjoyed this largely "feel good" book and cannot wait for future additions to the series.

Women's rights is at the forefront but it is not shoved down the readers' throats; I am liking the mystery/intrigue with the unknown solider storyline, and can't wait to see where the author goes with the villain character.

This is not a heavy read but it certainly has substance and made for a satisfying weekend of reading.

Frances Brakespeare was born in All Saints Workhouse and she's adopted by a former suffragette, who encouraged her to be strong, independent woman and became a doctor. Frances lost her fiancée in the Great War, and plans on dedicating her life to healing the sick and delivering other women’s babies.

Frances is working at a hospital in London and here she’s treated badly by the male doctors, and when her adopted mother Izzy passes away, she finds herself homeless and without a job. She applies for a position in Somerset, they need a doctor at the Orchard Cottage Hospital in Norton Dene, a coal mining town. Of course there’s some confusion over her being a female, they were expecting a man and some of the members on the hospital committee didn’t pick up on her name being the feminine version and Frances is relieved when she's employed as the new general practitioner.

As you would expect Frances wants to make changes, some people are not keen, but she plans on starting an out patients and maternity clinic, and promote health and hygiene in the town. Frances enjoys life in the country, she becomes friends with two of the nurses, Lucy Daniels and Nancy Skittings, Reverend Gregory Sampson and she butts heads with Sister Harrison.

I received a copy of A New Doctor at Orchard Cottage Hospital by Lizzie Lane from Boldwood Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The classic historical fiction narrative is set in Somerset in 1930, as you would expect people are still getting over The Great War, every family either lost a love one or they were injured, and this is the case of one of the minor characters in the novel Captain Delvin Compton-Dixon.

I look forward to the next installment in the series, for Frances relationships to grow and hopefully flourish with the people she’s met in Norton Dene. However the mine owner’s son is a horrible man and Doctor Brakespeare is worried about his workers lungs and the accidents that happen underground.

Four stars from me, a character driven story, I found Ma Skittings antics amusing and one that takes the reader back to a quaint time in England, and set in a small country Cottage Hospital in Somerset.

I’ve enjoyed many of Lizzie’s books and this one is looking to be the start of a great new series. This book starts in 1930 and tells the story of Frances Brakespeare. Frances was adopted by Izzy Brakespeare a former suffragette who made sure that Frances did well in what was still very much a man’s world. Frances trained to become a Doctor and even though she was top of the class she was still ignored and men less qualified than her were promoted above her. After Izzy dies her family kick Frances out of the home she’d grown up in making her homeless. Frances applied for a job which came with a home at a Cottage Hospital. Unbeknown to her with a little help from her adopted mother’s suffrage friends she got the job. This book follows her as she tries to help the local community and bring the hospital up to date. I look forward to reading more about the people of Norton Dene.

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book

Frances Brakespeare is a trained doctor but being in the early 1900 a womans place was really only at home looking after her family but frances had been adopted as a baby and brought up by a woman who herself was trained doctor....

but even though frances was trained it was still a mans world and she was never taken seriously and when an altercation happened with another doctor a male one and one that wasnt up to much she was dismissed

and so began frances new journey which took her to orchard cottage hospital

her life was never going to be plain sailing...after all she was a woman and not many people took her seriously.... interesting times ahead

i for one am looking forward to reading more in this series as i am quite invested in some of the characters now.... its a well written and round book that keeps you glued with anticipation of whats going to happen next

This is the first book in a brand new series by Lizzie Lane . I’ve read and loved other series by this author and after finishing this book I can say it’s going to be another great series. I always enjoy starting a new series in one of my favourite genres and after only a few chapters in I was hooked on the story, I enjoyed the development of the characters and getting to know them all and I look forward to watching them develop as the series progresses.

Thank you for the chance to read this ARC in return for my honest opinion

I had read the blurb for this book and looked forward to read it with anticipation. I was not at all disappointed.

Its the tale of Dr Frances Brakespeare and her humble beginnings and loss in WW1 and her life as a female doctor in the mid War years.
She ends up in a fictional town in rural Somerset where there are coal mines and limestone quarries after being outspoken in her views.
So she has many new conditions to treat that she wont have met in the East End of London. (This has parallels with my own life where I went from a somerset town to London to train as a nurse in the 70s because I would see different conditions and illnesses)

The book is well written and well researched and a joy to read.
The aftermath of WW1 is described and how the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier was made fits into the narrative.
There are characters to love and those to dislike who might well come on the wrong side of Ma Skittings - who loves her natural remedies .

There are obviously more secrets to be revealed - this is hinted at in the prologue and later in the book - and I look forward to another in the series.

Definitely worth its 5 stars

In a new doctor at Orchard cottage Hospital by Lizzie Lane we meet Francis who lost her fiancé in the great war and has recently lost her adoptive mother and her job due to the fact she refused to apologize for standing up to a man that was way too Handsy. Thankfully she found an opening in a little village in Somerset and because they missed the femanin spelling of her name in with the support of the main benefactor she gets a second interview in person. when she arrives she hits the ground running having to go to an emergency call before she even gets out of her car. By the time she deals with the explosion at the mine she is moving in to her new home with the help of the Vicar Greg, who’s friendship, meals and homemade wine she will come to rely on while settling in she will meet other people some friends some foe a new mystery and not to mention all the changes she wants to make to benefit the women and children in the town. Many people she will meet in town have been affected by World War I but none affect her like Lady ADCs son Devlin. He was blinded during the war and the good lady implores Dr. Francis to find help from Mr. Grimes who is elderly and his only companion. Can I just say this was my favorite part of the book I loved the whole book but the ending with Lucy and Devlin with the good lady looking on almost made me cry. This is an absolutely brilliant story there’s so much I haven’t put in my review but once again Lizzie Lane has out done her self in this reader appreciates it so much! Like most of the authors main characters Dr. Francis proves that despite being born from rape and an a work house she is so worth more than what people see at a passing glance. I love this authors books and she did not disappoint I cannot wait for the next book in the series I want to think Boldwood books for my free arc copy via NetGalley please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

This is a story about Frances Brakespear who was adopted from the workhouse by Isabelle Brakespear. She is raised to be I independent as Isabelle was.Isabelle wanted to be a doctor and encouraged Frances.Isabelle dies and Frances looses her home and at the same time her job at the hospital as a doctor. Frances applies for a job at Orchard Cottage Hospital where she faces many set backs as many people don't like women doctors even though she is good at her job. This was a great read and am looking forward too the next in the series. Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood.

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I enjoyed this first book in a new series.

Francis is adopted from a workhouse and wants to work as a doctor.

After WW1 there aren't that many and therefore she begins her journey on becoming one. When she locates to a small hospital, she finds love with the vicar.

But, it seems not everyone likes to have a doctor who is a lady, especially those that are well off.

I recommend this book.