saxz_library 's review for:

Anatomy: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz

4.0

adventurous dark informative tense fast-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Strong character development: No

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

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Dana Schwartz weaves a captivating tale of ambition, forbidden romance, and the grim realities of 19th-century Edinburgh in Anatomy: A Love Story. Hazel Sinnett, a fiercely independent young woman with dreams of becoming a surgeon, defies societal expectations in a world where women are relegated to traditional roles. Her journey intertwines with Jack Currer, a resourceful resurrection man, and together they uncover secrets lurking in the city's shadows... 

The historical setting felt super immersive, especially all the details about early medicine (it gets descriptive in parts, but personally I love hearing and learning about the anatomy of the human body so this didn't bother me!). Hazel’s character is headstrong, determined, and doesn’t let anything stop her

which is why the ending just seemed to take a complete 180 turn for her character. I just didn't see Hazel sacrificing her dreams and aspirations for Jack since their love story was rushed and also the build up to the exam fell flat since she just ended up missing it when that was the main plot of the book

. The romance wasn’t the focus, but it added just enough heart to balance out the darker elements (keep in mind this is not a romance novel, nor a slow burn!) 

While the concept and characters were compelling, some plot developments felt abrupt or overly convenient, lessening the impact of the story’s central mysteries. Additionally, the pacing occasionally felt rushed, leaving certain moments under-explored.

All in all Anatomy: A Love Story is a striking mix of gothic intrigue and feminist empowerment, making it a gripping read for those who love historical fiction with a dark, romantic twist and it will leave you eagerly anticipating the sequel, Immortality: A Love Story.
P.S. If you've watched the TV series - The Artful Dodger - and are a fan of that show this book will definitely be a good read!