The Lost Orphan

by Stacey Halls

[kimbacaffeinate]

Hard times forced unwed mother, Bess Blight to leave her newborn baby, Clara, at London’s Foundling Hospital. Six years of saving and she finally has enough to claim her daughter. However, when she arrives she is stunned to learn she has already been claimed by Bess herself.

Halls quickly pulled me into this tale and my heart bled for Bess. We also meet, Alexandra, a wealth, widowed recluse and her young daughter Charlotte.

Through a young doctor and member of the Foundling Hospital Bess is hired on as a nursemaid for the young daughter and the tale that unfolded quickly pulled me in.

Set in Georgian London, the author paints an accurate picture of life in 1700s London. From the social classes to the hardships facing young women the author smoothly tackles them while shedding light on addiction, poverty and anxiety.

Secondary characters from Bess’s siblings to Doctor Mead added to the tale. We also have elements of romance but these are secondary to the central theme of Bess and her daughter.

Betrayal, love, hardship and the unwavering love of a mother are central themes. We have elements of mystery, suspense and a few unexpected twists as our tale unfolds.

I admit I worried about the conclusion but the author left me content and wrapped things up in an uplifting bow for readers. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer