A review by rivulet027
Shadows of the Workhouse by Jennifer Worth

5.0

I wanted to read this not only because I enjoyed the first book in this series, but because I also enjoy the TV show. Several of the stories in the book inspired episodes and characters in the TV show. It was interesting to see how interconnected Jane was with Peggy and Frank, since her background for the TV show was changed. Getting background on all three of them really illustrated how Sister Julienne described them in the show, that by the time they left the Workhouse they weren't siblings anymore. It gave a clearer picture of how they ended up in the Workhouse, met Jane, how they were separated, and what Frank did to get Peggy out of the Workhouse.

I've worked in long term care with geriatric patients so found Sister Monica Jo's ordeal with kleptomania and Joe's friendship with Jenny especially touching. I felt that through Joe it was really illustrated how a caregiver and patient can become important to each other. I loved hearing Joe's stories (my library only had the audio book version) even if some of his life wasn't pleasant. The book also showed how wounds can heal with time and treatment, but left without any they can fester. I felt like I was given a glimpse into history. Some of it was joyous, a lot of it was difficult, and much of it was sad, but this book didn't shy away from any of this and for that I'm grateful.