The Whores’ Asylum (The Unpierced Heart) by Katy Darby
The Whores’ Asylum (also known as The Unpierced Heart) by Katy Darby is a fabulously dark Victorian tale. The novel is set in and around the seedy underbelly of 19th century London.
Synopsis
As a young student, Edward Fraser witnessed his best friend’s murder after a gunfight with a bitter love rival. Edward never forgave the wicked, heartless woman he blamed for leading these two men astray, ultimately leading to his friend’s death.
Years pass and he continues his studies at Oxford. He lives with a medical student called Stephen, in a run-down area called Jericho. Stephen studies women’s ailments and specialises in the tropical and sexual diseases spread among the streetwalkers of the city. When he is approached to work in a home for fallen women, he takes the opportunity to help and study their ailments. He soon falls in love with the head of the household, the lady who cares for the girls and runs the home. However, when Stephen introduces his love to Edward, he recognizes her instantly. He takes it upon himself to make sure Stephen knows the woman’s terrible past.
The Whores’ Asylum (The Unpierced Heart) by Katy Darby review
This book is beautifully written in a Victoriana style to add to the overall effect. The tale itself is so fabulously woven that it’ll have you hating a character one moment and admiring them the next. Also, it makes some very interesting points about actions that were acceptable for men but deemed improper for women. With moments of utter despair, sexual depravity and blindless love, this book is sure to keep the reader absolutely captivated.
If you like The Whore’s Asylum (The Unpierced Heart) by Katy Darby you’ll love Florence and Giles by John Harding