The Purple Nightgown

Another hit in the True Crimes series. I am really enjoying this series of books due to the historical information intertwined within a novel. Stella had debilitating headaches and is searching for a cure or at least some relief. She gets her friend and chauffeur to drive her to an inpatient clinic that supposedly can offer a cure. Will it be a cure or a nightmare come to life? Some parts are really horrible but many true crimes certainly are. It can be difficult to read at times but I couldn't put it down. It is a reminder to all of us that though the worst God's love is always there.

This story will have you quickly page turning for answers, how could this possibly happen and then was justice really served? This is the story of a young, wealthy, young woman, struggling to find her place, and about to inherit her fortune. Stella Burke does have a problem of debilitating headaches. Her childhood friend and chauffeur is there for her, but can she see the real him? Stella desperately wants help for her headaches and decides to go to the Hazzard Clinic. Now this is part of the true crime series, and you will soon find your heart in your throat. We are there at the clinic, or known as the Starvation Clinic, run by Linda Hazzard, a quack, and as you are reading, a very scary evil woman. As we meet the people currently at the clinic you will soon wonder if any will leave alive. You really need to read this to see how everything turns out, but I for one did not feel justice was served! You also can judge! I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour, and was not required to give a positive review.

Another intriguing story, with suspense and romance, based on real crimes. This one had moments edging on horror, yet not without hope. The author draws a clear picture of the main character's desperation to be healed from debilitating migraines; desperate enough to try anything. "She wasn’t alone. Not really. God, in all His vastness and unbounded love, saw her." Stella's experience at the institute grows darker on one hand, as she feels trapped there and alone. Her epiphanies of faith bring a wonderful contrast of light in the darkness, as she realizes God has not abandoned her. The tension grows tighter in the last half and the main characters rise to the challenges, overcoming fears, taking risks to help others. Henry proves himself to be a terrific hero and a true friend. He had me cheering him on, especially towards the end. I was especially interested in this installment of the True Crimes series because it took place in the county where I live. I had heard about the institute and shudder to think of what went on there. Olalla was quite remote at the time. Recommend to readers who like historical suspense with faith and a little romance. 4.5 stars (An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)