In this complicated historical fiction novel, readers alternate between Eloise in 1890s Boston and Ruby in 1913 Devonshire, England, as they deal with the struggles of courtship, their futures, and their family secrets. Living two very different lives, these two women are connected by a shared tragedy across the Atlantic. Unfolding in a nonlinear narrative and alternating between their perspectives, readers begin to discover the truths behind their secrets and how these two women are connected. Both women are complex and strong-willed with their own personalities and minds of their own that chafe at the rules of their respective societies, yet they are very distinct and Cole keeps their narratives from blending together and confusing the reader. The dual timeline aspect allows the narrative to unfold naturally and keeps readers on their toes, and both timelines are well-developed and complex. As for the characters of the novel, Eloise and Ruby are the stars of the novel while the minor characters -- their families and members of their community -- are also complex, with different backgrounds and motivations that impact their narratives. Some other significant characters have the chance to narrate chapters (to share their names would be a spoiler) and further enhance Eloise and Ruby’s stories in this incredible novel.

Loved it
It gave me pride and prejudice vibes .
Mr pinker is like the butcher and miss summer is like Elizabeth ! So charming but defiant in nature

This is an absolute 5 stars from me. I was entrance, enthralled and totally immersed in this book and I couldn't put it down. This is a story that gets right to the heart. A short but very well written story that took me no time at all to read. With interesting and real characters you could relate to and a story with heart and emotion, this is a book I won't forget in a hurry. Loved it.

Thank you NetGalley and Troubador for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

What happens to a young priveleged woman in the late 1800's when a respected doctor takes advantage of her innocence ? Pregnant, she is sent to England to have her child and then returns home to try to take up her life again. Society norms at that time shows a young woman at that time struggling to live as if nothing had happened. Fascinating read that I thoroughly enjoyed, I will definitely recommend.

The Weight of Her Heart
by Julia Cole

Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews

Genre: Historical fiction, Romance, Womens fiction

I enjoyed this, not gripped to the page, must keep reading enjoyment, more a sense of exploration, where would the story take me next.
It perfectly illustrates how powerless women were, how easily they are taken advantage of, and of course, the lies men told themselves to justify their actions.
Poor naive Eloise, she's a kid, so innocent. For her family the money allowed them to disguise the shame, hide what happened. For less wealthy families the girl risked being literally thrown on to the street.
Its not so easy to just wipe away what happens in life though, it leaves scars on many of the major participants. As here they can have lifelong impact.
Some great characters, and some sweet surprises and intriguing twists.
Stars: Three, good story with viewpoints from different characters, which I like, but not a book I'd reread.

ARC supplied by netgalley and publishers

Across the ocean and all alone at a hotel in Denvon, Eloise holds her baby daughter for the last time before leaving her to be found and taken in by a family in the village.
Eloise will go from a naive and trusting girl to a mother sacrificing her happiness for her daughters, to a woman trying to assemble a life for herself.
With an incredibly compelling protagonist in Eloise I fell in love with this heartfelt story. There is a bit of switching perspectives and timelines but it was well marked and well done and really flushed out the story. I also appreciated how historical realities were handled. The author worked with the practicalities and limitations that 1890’s society would have imposed and crafted a loving story within them. This is truly a gem of a story. Thank you to @troubador_publishing and @netgalley for letting me read #theweightofherheart a little early in exchange for a review.
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The story was well written. I read it in a few days. Love, loss and strength.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.