Member Reviews
There has been adventure in every book I have read by Jennifer Moore. The Blue Orchid Society books are no different. Healing Hazel, however, takes that to a whole other world. War time medicine in an unfamiliar land sounds pretty intense to me. But the grace that Jennifer put into this beautifully done story, let's one see that humanity has to be seen and heard in this world, even in war.
The challenges that Hazel specifically faces with her panic attacks, make it seem like this would bury her. These trials set on her could have easily defeated her. But one has hope and support, the ability to grow beyond what their individual struggles are. I loved the support her friends in the Blue Orchid Society give her as the book starts and finishes. I loved how Hazel also uses their love for her and care for her, to in turn care for the patients in her care through them.
Hazel isn't taken out of her struggles and I liked that comparison for us. We will always have burdens placed upon us and some we cannot control or get away from. We can't write them off. But we can learn to cope and move forward. That is how we heal, and that is why I love the title so much! Hazel wasn't miraculously healed from her ails, but as the book goes on, she finds a strength from those around her as they all care for one another, and those that are injured.
What a wonderful book this was! Definitely one to pick up!
I love this series, but even more than that, I love Hazel. Her anxieties and imperfections combined with her pure determination make her beautifully flawed and completely relatable. She is brave and compassionate in the most unexpected and harrowing circumstances. This story left me breathless for her at moments.
Dr. Jim Jackson is an American on a mission for the red cross. He is determined to save all he can from the ravages of war, no matter the side. Headstrong Hazel is definitely his match and challenges his long held beliefs and his determination to stay alone.
This story has these two thrown together, working side by side. Hazel had not been able to finish her nurses training due to unresolved trauma and she is thrown into a situation where she has to face those fears head on.
Beyond the drama of the story, there is a piece I love about this series. It is the enduring support and friendship of this group of ladies. They cheer for each other, lift each other, and support each other. There is no competition between them. Together they work to overcome. Even as Hazel is facing unexpected circumstances beyond her control, she depends on these ladies and their love for strength.
This is a story about the best of women. It is Hazel's story but it is also brought to pass through this society. The truth about this story is the growth that is experienced by both Hazel and Jim. They work through their pasts and come together. It rings true and realistic but with the escape of the happy ever after. I could not put this one down and read it in one sitting. If you haven't read these books, this is a good place to start.
I received an early copy of this book through NetGalley and this is my honest review.
I enjoyed this book by Jennifer Moore. I have enjoyed the other books in the series and I am glad that this one did not disappoint. I liked how in this book we got to understand why Hazel has her panic attacks in crowded/small spaces. I liked how Jim was able to help her work through them and find ways to cope. I also liked how Hazel was able to do what she always wanted to do as a nurse. I liked that she gained more confidence in herself and was able to achieve her dream. I also liked how Hazel helped Jim with his own demons and how they were a compliment to each other. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I just finished reading this book and it definitely deserves all the heart eyes. It was seriously the sweetest story.
Hazel has ben one of my favorite characters in the Blue Orchid Society so far so I was very excited to finally get her story. I love how tender-hearted and compassionate Hazel is; she definitely brings to softer side to her group of friends. Jim was the perfect for Hazel. He was equally compassionate and treated Hazel so well (despite his grumpiness towards her at the beginning of the story).
I loved that the majority of the story took place in Spain. It was so interesting to learn about a different area of the world while still getting the Victorian feels I've come to love.
Moral of the story here, friends, is that you should definitely add this to your TBR list. Y'all aren't going to want to miss this one!
Thank you so much to the publisher, author, and NetGalley for the early copy! All thoughts are my own :)
“Healing Hazel” The Blue Orchid Society Book #3 by Jennifer Moore
Love, War, and Romance
For me this was an intense story relating love of friends and family and the trauma of war not just for the active soldiers but also for civilians caught in the war zone; plus, the sweet clean growth of romantic love, too! There is more to this story than I have mentioned; but you most likely would like to find that out for yourself. I really did love my time in this story. If you are not a history buff, you might find it helpful to read the Author’s notes before the story rather than after. I think that would have enhanced my reading of the story. Happy Reading ! !
NOTE: This review expresses my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this story from the publisher via NetGalley.
3.5, maybe 3.75
Very cool premise.
It wasn't for me though because I hate blood so the beginning was tough. And then unfortunately, I had a tough time getting into it. I loved the ending and I enjoyed so so many of the characters.
It was well written, well timed, flowed well. I'm sure so many people will love it!
I loved this story! I found both Hazel and Jim to be intriguing characters with backstories that were well-integrated with their present journeys—nothing felt contrived or unrealistic. The setting and history were particularly fascinating. I have read plenty of Victorian romances, but Healing Hazel merged Spain, England, America, India, and our present day seamlessly (no, the story doesn’t involve time travel, but in terms of the emotional experience of medical workers, it all felt very timely). Some of the medical descriptions may make certain readers squeamish, but those passages can be easily skimmed and won’t detract from the reader’s overall enjoyment of the story. And, as Jennifer Moore said in her author’s note, it is refreshing to see true and steady female friendship represented in the Blue Orchid Society.
I highly recommend this series! 4.5/5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
“Jim groaned. "Can't we be content in keeping the patients healthy and the hospital running smoothly?"
"Don't tell me you're a Christmas curmudgeon, Dr. Jackson." She wagged
a finger at him, shook her head in exaggerated disappointment, and started
back to the ward.”
This quote is perfectly shows Jim and Hazel’s personalities. Jim likes order and is a tad bit grumpy if we can call it that. Hazel is a little shy, but brings happiness wherever she goes. Hazel’s happiness rubs off onto Jim. She shows him it’s okay to not be so closed off with the people he takes care of.
I really enjoyed reading about Hazel and how she found the courage in a hard place. She had her challenges like any heroine, but she over comes them. She really comes into her own, and I love that! Hazel was is such a lovable and relatable character. I wish the book was longer, so we could see where Hazel goes next.
Dr. Jim Jackson was a fun character to read about. He was “grumpy” if you call him that. Mostly he just didn’t know how to handle Hazel and her cheeriness. But he comes around and is able to learn from Hazel and how she treats their patients as individuals.
I think my favorite part of the book was how it all ended. It was so romantic and I loved it. It was great! I love how Jennifer Moore, weaves historical facts into a fictional story. There was never a dull moment in this book. Jennifer is great at getting you invested in her characters and their stories.
These thoughts and opinions are my own. Thanks NetGalley and Covenant Communication for the ARC.
I really enjoyed this third book in The Blue Orchid Society series. Getting Hazel's story was really exciting -- I have been anticipating hers since the first book!
Hazel is such a sweet protagonist, and I loved getting to know her better. It's so easy to cheer for her and hope that she reaches all her dreams. I was impressed by her ambitions to complete her nursing training and how many modern innovations were beginning at this time. Hazel is a natural caregiver with a sweet bedside manner and a unique ability to connect with people of all walks of life. I was cheering for her throughout the novel. She works through the trauma of her past and wants to do something worthwhile instead of wallowing in self pity. I respect her for that. And I love the way she falls in love with someone who becomes her safety and refuge from the panic and uncertainty that at times surround her.
Jim Jackson is such a fantastic compliment to Hazel. He is brooding and stand offish at first. But soon we see his kind, caring nature and the true reasons he became a doctor and why he works so hard to save patients. I admired his determination, his desire to help, and his willingness to teach Hazel. Their romance is slow building and beautiful. Their first kiss is swoony and sweet -- perfect! And I love how they both begin to realize how much they mean to each other as the story progresses. They don't judge each other for their pasts or their challenges. Instead they help each other through those challenges. The climax at the army camp and escape for their lives is gripping and reveals the depths of especially Jim's feelings. I loved his vulnerable, loving self and how much Hazel means to him.
I was fascinated by this time period during the Spanish war as the backdrop to this story. I haven't read anything previously set in that location during the Victorian Age and it was so interesting. The contrasts between upcoming modern medical details and old style fighting were so interesting. I was surprised by how far medicine had come at this time with innovations like disinfecting instruments and bandages, the life saving surgeries with anesthesia, and the creation of the International Red Cross. That was in stark contrast to the hospital setup in an old monastery using candles for light, limited postal service, kidnapping and the guerrilla warfare in the hills around them. The beginnings of the Red Cross were fascinating to read about as well. People didn't trust them from both sides of the conflict and it was interesting to think about a time when the Red Cross was new and unknown.
I love the ending when Hazel and Jim realize their feelings and are reunited with a little help from the Blue Orchid Society. Such a clever and silly way to bring them together again. I felt that there could have been more development at the end as they prepare to go after each other. It felt a bit rushed. And I wish there had been an epilogue with a glimpse into their life in the future. I loved the small moments we get with the other members of the Blue Orchid Society and would have loved more of them somehow! What makes these books so engaging and memorable to me are the friendships between these women. They are true friends -- fighting for each other, helping each other, supporting each other in their dreams, and loving each other as true friends.
Overall a fantastic addition to the series! I loved seeing Hazel take the spotlight as she shows everyone including herself how strong and capable she is. That journey is augmented by a beautiful love story that only adds to the beauty of the experience. Seeing her fulfill her dreams was a delight!
I received an ARC copy of the novel from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
I have loved all of the Blue Orchid Society books and this one did not disappoint.
I loved how different this one was in theme and location. Most of the story takes place in Spain near the Basque country, which was unexpected, but fun to learn about. It was fascinating to see how the Red Cross tried to provide aid as a neutral party during a war. I love learning a bit about history while being entertained by a story.
Hazel and Jim were so great! Swoon! I love how they overcame first impressions and learned to work together. I just loved Hazel and the person she was and what she had to overcome.
I was kind of in a historical funk and this pulled me out. I absolutely loved it!
Sweet romance story.
I'm usually not a fan of war romance nor hospital stories, but I was surprised by how pleasant this read was. Both characters are extremely likable, and the romance is a sweet slow burn - you can see how they are perfect for each other! I also loved how they clearly communicated with each other, and how true to their hearts both of them are. I truly liked the pace of the book, and would definitely recommend it to historical romance readers.
This is definitely my favourite book of the entire month, because not only I really liked the romance between the MCs m, Jim and hazel but also I simply loved and adored hazel for her strength and beautiful soul. Undoubtedly a full 5 stars read for me.
I've enjoyed every book in this series and this one was no exception! Each member of the Blue Orchid Society is unique in their own way and it was so fun to see how Hazel grew and progressed throughout her story. The dynamic between Hazel and Jim was great too and her experiences in Spain made it hard to put this book down.
Healing Hazel was my first book by Jennifer Moore, and I will be checking out more after I write this review! I absolutely loved this book!
Hazel's panic attacks were not front and center in the story, but were constantly on Hazel's mind. Jim battled guilt over his brother's death in the American Civil War. When Hazel's train derailed in Spain because of a bombing, neither realized it would be a turning point in both of their lives. Hazel joins the Red Cross efforts as a nurse while her companions heal, and she shows great fortitude and determination as she learns to be a nurse.
Hazel and Jim's relationship was lovely. There were misunderstandings (like Hazel believing that Jim found her presence burdensome to the hospital), but the author did not drag them out. The characters communicated well, which is a show of maturity on the author's part. She did not rely on misunderstandings and poor communication/ assumptions to drive her plot.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys clean romances and historical novels. I cannot wait to read more from Jennifer Moore!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
Very sweet and enjoyable story in part of a series. I have not read the other books but will look for them next. This story is about Hazel’s desire to overcome the lingering effects of a childhood trauma to become a nurse and take control of her life. She becomes embroiled in fighting and finds she thrives in the difficult environment. The romance is sweet and well done, and Jim is a well-drawn, complete character too.
Oh, I adored this third book in The Blue Orchid Society. I love this group of friends. They are so wonderful and good to each other! Isn't that the best thing to read about? Characters who care about each other and who have each other's best interest at heart draws me into books very quickly. And keep drawing me back!
Hazel is very excited to travel to be with her father for Christmas but plans are thwarted and she finds herself traveling the way back home, feeling great loss. But an unexpected explosion blows the train off the tracks and she finds herself thrust into the desire of her heart. Nursing!
I just adore Hazel. She is such a sweet character. She has some struggles and that has held her back from fulfilling her dream. But I loved watching her step up to the challenge and working through her struggles to help those in need.
Dr. Jim Jackson isn't a big fan of Hazel's. He sees her dressed nicely and thinks she's just there at his hospital in the way. Boy, oh boy, does he have it a little wrong. It was so fun to watch their interactions and see how they changed and developed over the course of the book. The trust and friendship that was built between the two. Very sweet.
The hospital is in Spain in an old monastery. And close around it, is Basque country with the Carlists war happening. Bringing in many different people in need of medical attention. Of course this causes some tensions to be raised and puts the medical staff in danger.
Such a great read! I loved it! My favorite so far in the series! Such a sweet and tender story with a beautiful love story. When you think all is going wrong and not going to work out, just hold on and trust. Love will win! I know this is book #3 and it hasn't released yet while I'm writing this review, but I'm really excited for book #4 to come out! Can't wait to see more of these lovely Blue Orchid Society Ladies!!!
Content: Clean. This book of course deals with war and fights and an office so there are some descriptions of the care given to the wounded as well as some deaths. Written very well and not overly graphic. I'd recommend for teens and up. Nothing more than just kisses.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This is the third in a series of books. I have not read the first two, but I don’t think that affected my ability to understand and enjoy this book.
Hazel had started training as a nurse but was unable to finish due to panic attacks resulting from experiences in her youth. In this story she was traveling on a train in Spain during their civil war. The train is attacked by explosives and crashes. As a result she and her companions are taken to a makeshift Red Cross Hospital to heal.
While there Hazel is able to use her nursing skills to help with patient care. She meets Jim, a doctor there. At first they both have negative first impressions of the other. It was interesting to see how their opinions changed and improved with more time and experiences together.
This is a story of personal growth, confidence and growing love. The author did a good job of letting us inside the characters’ heads and helping us come to know and care about them.
This was an enjoyable read with some surprising twists and turns. It was a clean read with a little more serious and dramatic tone. Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy.
Hazel really wants to be a nurse. She started training, only to discover her panic attacks stemming from childhood trauma make it impossible for her to sit in crowded lecture halls. This changes when a trip through Spain ends with her companions injured in the middle of a war hospital. Hazel convinces the grumpy Dr. Jackson to allow her to assist with the patients, and she ends up finding more than she had anticipated.
I loved the previous Blue Orchid Society books, so I was excited to read Hazel’s story. And I wasn’t disappointed! I loved Hazel’s compassion and determination. I loved how her friends instinctively knew what she needed, even though they weren’t right there with her. I also thought it was interesting to read about a Red Cross hospital. I didn’t know how the Red Cross came to be, never really even thought it, but it was interesting.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and this is my freely given opinion.
Full disclosure, I have not read the preceding books in the series as yet - they are saved on my tablet and on my to-read book, but I skipped ahead to read this one instead since the subject caught my interest, being a nurse myself, and lover of historicals also.
On saying that, I was also a bit trepidatious because I was worried this would be a stereotypical nurse-doctor romance, which would be a huge disappointment to me, since I don't like the portrayal of the googoo-eyed nurse who hero-worships the all-knowing superior doctor ideal, and is the unthinking handmaiden, ego-masseuse to said doctor. Not a fan of that world-view of the nurse.
Hazel is a nurse-in-training who has yet to complete her formal training because she has an anxiety issue and occasionally has panic attacks. She is greatly troubled by this and feels it is a weakness she must keep hidden and hinders her ability to be a nurse, and stops her from completing her training. But she is supported and loved by her friends in the Blue Orchid Society.
Near Christmas time, she travels with a companion, Nella Westbrook, to Spain, with the hopes of spending time with her father, an officer in the military. It is an arduous journey and at the end, she faces great disappointment as he had to cancel their plans at the last minute. She and her companion travel by train, joined by a soldier on leave, to return to England. Enroute, there is a serious derailment caused by an explosion, as this was a time when there is civil war in Spain. Many people are dead or injured in the explosion, and Hazel is lucky enough to only be shaken and mildly hurt, but her travelling companions are quite seriously injured. She initially feels overwhelmed, but through Nella's calm encouragement, finds the fortitude to use her training to provide aid to her friends and other passengers while they wait for help.
Help arrives in the form of the local Red Cross contingent, housed at a local abbey. Dr. Jim Jackson is an American doctor who served in the American Civil war and has joined the Red Cross in Spain to help those on both sides. Initially Hazel rubs him the wrong way, and he does not trust her to be useful as a nurse/aide to their work. But Hazel is stuck, since her companions are hurt and need help, the rail is down, and she is alone, so she joins them at the hospital/abbey and earns her keep by providing nursing assistance where she can. She is a smart, hard working woman, despite the harrowing circumstances and her own fears and perceived weaknesses. Despite the language barriers, and her own inexperience, she finds her place and earns the respect and appreciation of other members of the Red Cross contingent. Eventually Jim comes to value her as a member of the team. His feelings for her grow the more they come to know each other and Hazel demonstrates what a warm, caring heart she has.
I found this to be a beautifully written story set in the background of the Spanish civil war. There was elements of the distrust of the different factions against the Red Cross members, that mirrors some of the distrust and elements of the risk of abuse that health care workers still are at risk of today. Despite the fact that the staff, as part of the Red Cross, were there as impartial actors to provide care to those in need, regardless of which faction they were part of. The characterizations of Jim and Hazel were nicely drawn out, with their own frailties and self-doubt. Jim obviously has some PTSD and some compassion fatigue, and Hazel made a nice foil for that, as an earnest ingenue who wants to do her best to provide wholistic care to others, including her friends, and other workers. I think she brings back that sense of hope and wonder that Jim may have lost over time. On many levels I connected with elements of this story, and found it paralleled a bit of my own modern-day experiences; I even cried a bit when she suffers a loss of a patient; empathizing with my own recent and not so recent experiences. Initially I found it to be a bit boring with the story of Hazel travelling to Spain. But the story clicked and grabbed my interest at the point where the explosion happened and Hazel and the Red Cross become involved.
This was a nice balance, for me, of a sweet, slow growth of respect, to friendship, to love, and adventure/suspense, and medical suspense.
4.75 stars out of 5.
I am IN LOVE. 😍
I've been looking forward to "Healing Hazel" for awhile now because I've loved the rest of The Blue Orchid Society series. But this one might be my favorite one yet.
This book was a big shift from the other two books in the series, but in a really great way.
The first book in the series, "Solving Sophronia" is essentially a Victorian murder mystery. The second book, "Inventing Vivian" is similar. The book is mostly about Vivian trying to enter one of her inventions into an exhibition, but with a murder mystery thrown in at the end.
I expected "Healing Hazel" to be similar. But instead of murder mystery, the book is about holiday trips gone horribly wrong, explosions, civil wars, and *of course* handsome doctors. If you want to find out how a young woman from London suddenly ends up in a Red Cross hospital in the middle of a civil war, this book is for you.
Hazel was an amazing protagonist! In the earlier books from the series, Hazel has been a quieter character. She's depicted as a very good friend, but was mostly memorable due to the panic attacks she has in large groups or crowded spaces. Seeing her character grow, develop, and overcome now that's she's the protagonist was an absolute joy.