About This Book
Reach for this book when your teen is feeling restricted by societal expectations or is navigating the frustration of being told 'no' because of who they are. It is an ideal choice for a young person with a passion for science or medicine who values independence and intellectual rigor over traditional social milestones. Set in 19th-century Edinburgh, the story follows Hazel Sinnett, a young woman who defies gender norms to study anatomy, even if it means secretively dissecting corpses alongside a resurrection man named Jack. While the book features a gothic atmosphere and a central romance, its heartbeat is Hazel's unwavering resilience and her pursuit of a career during a time of plague and deep-seated sexism. Parents should note that while the prose is sophisticated, the descriptions of surgery and anatomy are medically detailed and graphic. It is a powerful narrative about standing up for oneself and the gritty reality of scientific discovery, making it perfect for mature teens who appreciate historical fiction with a darker, more realistic edge.
