The Purple Nightgown by A. D. Lawrence–Book Review

I chose this book because it was presented as “historical fiction” based on a true crime.  It is indeed set around the crimes committed by Linda Burfield Hazzard and her fasting clinic which was operated in Washington State during the early twentieth century.  Linda Burfield was a quack, swindler and possibly a murderer, who lured patients into her clinic with promises that fasting would cure their ills.  Many of them died, essentially starved to death.

However, the main plot is a formulaic romance.  Stella, a wealthy heiress, loves Henry, her driver, whom she has known since childhood.  He is in love with her as well, but because of their different stations in life, they do not confess their feelings to one another.  Stella, who suffers from migraines, checks herself into the Hazzard clinic, finds that it is not what she expected, and that people are dying.  When she tries to leave, she is thwarted by Dr. Hazzard.  In the end, she is rescued by Henry, they admit to their mutual love.  As Stella is approaching her twenty-fifth birthday, she will have control of her fortune and can marry as she chooses.  Hooray!  Together they decide to found a home for orphaned children (as well as raising some of their own).

The plot was predictable and the characterization superficial. A situation that should have seemed full of suspense, somehow fell flat. There is a thin veneer of Christianity, but no deep spiritual struggles or insights. If you’re looking for some light escapism, you may enjoy this.  I found it disappointing.

This is part of a series called True Colors if you are interested in reading more of this genre.  If you are interested in purchasing this book, follow the link below:

The Purple Nightgown (barbourbooks.com)

VERDICT:  2 STARS.  Not my cup of tea.

The Lutheran Ladies received a free e-copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review.  Disclaimer pursuant to FTC 16 CPR 255.

For more Christian fiction reviews see:

white picket fences by Susan Meissner–Book Review

a long time comin’ by Robin W. Pearson — Book Review

Shades of Light by Sharon Garlough Brown–Book Review