A review by juanat77
The Stolen Marriage by Diane Chamberlain

adventurous emotional hopeful informative inspiring mysterious reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

The Stolen Marriage is a book of fiction written around true events. Set in the 1940s in the South during the WWII and the Polio outbreak. 

This is an extraordinary story about love, loss, betrayal, secrets, racism, communication and forgiveness. The FMC, Tess, is stuck in a loveless marriage after a poor decision one fateful night. She has dreams of becoming a nurse but her husband, Henry, and his mother won’t allow it. Initially I was a bit upset at Tess when she wouldn’t stand up for herself to her husband or her mother in law but I understand that was pretty much the expectation at that time. Though Tess grows into such a strong and confident woman throughout the story. 

There is so much more to the story. It has so many layers. Even if you do not usually read historical fiction take a chance on this one. It does not read like most. 

It is evident on the amount of research Diane Chamberlain has done for the novel. She is able to capture the culture and details of the time and create a variety of believable likable and unlikable characters as well as the medical content in regards to polio. She is also able to expertly weave twists and turns while keeping the integrity of the historical events. 

Some historical fiction novels tend to lag at times. I did not find that with this one. I was always eager to dive right back in whenever I had a chance. 

I recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading about history, drama, love, and mystery.

4.5 stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Expand filter menu Content Warnings