K. Lyn Smith became one of my favorite authors when I read the first book in this series, “The Astronomer’s Obsession.” Smith’s newest tale, “The Physician’s Dilemma” is similar in all the best ways. The heroine, Charlotte Grace, has worked for years alongside her father, a doctor. It’s a career for which she has passion and commitment. When her father retires, she quickly realizes she will have to give up her dream, because in Regency England, the idea of a woman doctor is unfathomable.
Enter Dr. Julian Grey, a physician who once studied with Charlotte’s father. He knows how talented and knowledgeable Charlotte is, but he also knows he’ll be a laughingstock if he suggests a woman can practice medicine. The two end up butting heads more often than not, but he and his friend Alexander Marchand (from the second novel in the series, “The Artist’s Redemption”) are willing to give Charlotte a rare opportunity to practice her craft.
The main thing I love about this book is how Charlotte Grace doesn’t care what others think – about her appearance, her choice to work, or her decision not to get married. She’s confident and comfortable with who she is. She has an abundance of care for others and a thirst for knowledge about how best to treat ailments.
I also appreciate the reasons why Charlotte and Dr. Grey don’t think they can ever be together – personally or professionally. I like how Smith develops the supporting cast by giving them quirks, personality traits, and little characteristics like the descriptions of their hair. She also delivers a few small callbacks to the previous books without being heavy-handed. If you haven’t read the previous books, you’ll be fine here, although I heartily recommend reading them in order.
I am grateful that I received a free review copy of this book, giving me the chance to read it before publication. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions are genuine reflections of my enjoyment of the book and the series.
Rhyme Schemes and Daydreams 