"The Lost Melody" by Joanna Davidson Politano

 


Vivienne Mourdant is finally free—free from her father's tight control over her life. Her desire is to help other women trapped in oppressive home situations. But a more immediate need arises when she learns her father had a secret ward in a pauper's asylum. Who is Rosamund and how is she related to Vivienne?

When Vivienne makes inquiries and Hurstwell says they've never had a patient by that name, Vivienne realizes her first rescue is going to be of a different nature. But things go wrong and Vivienne gets a much closer look at Hurstwell and its inmates than she ever imagined.

There was much to enjoy in this novel. The storytelling is rich, and there's just enough off-balance things thrown in that you're not quite sure what's real and who you can trust. I appreciated the strong faith theme that is woven throughout. I also liked that Vivienne never used her past as an excuse but was always looking to touch the lives of others, whether through her music or the gift of her presence and listening ear.

The Lost Melody was a book I didn't want to put down. If you enjoy Victorian stories with a slight side of spooky, while still shining a bright light, make sure to check out this one and other stories by this author.

I received my copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts in this review are my own.