Book Review: ‘The Hidden Child: A Novel’ By Louise Fein

A historical fiction novel based in part on author Louise Fein’s own personal experiences finds one mother’s love for her child takes priority in her life. What if your child had a bad illness and they’re may not be a cure? For Eleanor Hamilton and her 4 year old daughter Mable their lives are going to change. She has epilepsy in 1928 and there’s no real cure for it. Eleanor’s rich, war-hero husband, decides it’s best to put her in a hospital away from public view in hopes of helping her. Eleanor is against it but the decision has been made. On top of that she has just had a baby boy Jimmy and her 18 year old sister has told her she’s in love with a French artist that has no money (and Edward is furious about this). Eleanor hears about a clinical trial that has been going on and helps with the condition. She decides that she will do whatever she can to help her daughter. On top of that Edward has secrets that come to light and the family must deal with the NY Stock Exchange crashing and how it will impact their family.

This is an intense story of family, love and how protective a mother can be about her child. A great historical novel filled with twists and a look at real life of 1928/1929. A well-written follow up to Daughter Of The Reich.

You can pick up The Hidden Child in stores on Tuesday, October 19th from William Morrow Paperbacks.