The Doctor and the Diva: A Novel

I really had mixed emotions regarding this book. When I read the synopsis of this book I was intrigued and ordered it. When I started reading I felt it was a very disjointed read. I had a hard time keeping up with the narration. It was interesting in some ways (the ins and outs of conception) and the author did do an extensive history into the medical (obgyn profession). At times I felt let down with the characters. But knowing the history of the times was interesting.

Wow. I was overwhelmed by this book and read it in two days on my Kindle. Yes, it was tragic. Yes, the characters are flawed. Isn't that what makes a great book? Nobody was more flawed than Emma Bovary, but Flaubert managed to immortalize her foibles. So it is with the impulsive Erica and her longings. A mezzo, not a soprano; a talent which is inconsistent, (and a woman not that young), we get the feeling she is never really going to make it; yet she is driven--to the point of abandonning the child she adores to pursue a career which may or may not materialize. Along the way, McDonnell tugs at our heartstrings, as we see her actually lose her son. But what a story! And what great writing! A real tour de force. I loved it!

I read this book all in one night! It captured me right from the start and, as they say, I couldn't put it down. Both the doctor and the diva are well-drawn characters who act like real people would act. I know this is fiction (that's why I loved it so) but I do think the author really understood how these characters must have thought, what they felt and longed for and dreamed about. And she gathered her material only from old family letters, newspaper archives and tons of historical medical research.I read it first just to see how the story came out. Then I read it again, to understand the deeper issues: infertility in an era and culture where such things were shameful, not to be mentioned, certainly not to be addressed, at least to anyone's knowledge, and the issue of a woman having a lifelong calling (an opera career) when women were firmly expected to be wife, mother and confined to home and hearth.This book compared more than favorably with other historical writers I've enjoyed. When I ordered this book on Amazon, I was offered other books by similar authors that people have bought, and none of them were a surprise to me. When you see their names, you'll know what I mean.This a great writer. I'm looking forward to another book from her.

I could not put this book down. I saw this book once in a store and didn't get it, but I got the Kindle copy a while later. I couldn't believe I made myself wait! Such a wonderful story with great twists, I love Medicine and music so this book was a goldmine for me. If you enjoy history and drama you will enjoy this book.Note: This book does discuss some of the early methods for treating infertitlity. It is not graphic, just honest, but you have been warned.

Engaging story and style adds up to a compelling novel. The times and places are so thoroughly researched and presented, as you read you are transported into those times and places. Congrats to the author. When can we expect another?

I loved this story.it's so beautifully written.being a delivery nurse I was enthralled by the doctor.I can hardly stand the wait for her next book

An interesting novel partly based on a real person's life. I am an amateur opera singer, so there were parts I could relate to.. I would have changed a few things about this book, but for the most part, an enjoyable story.. You find yourself getting engrossed in the characters, and their relationships. There are a few plot twists and turns. I never expected Trinidad to play a big part in the story.

I had trouble putting this one down. It is written well, has a good plot line, and is set in desirable locations. It is interesting to see how the diva is tempted in so many ways. I won't mention how she deals with these temptations.

Quite good, enjoyed reading it although it wasnt one of those I couldnt put down. Thought the ending a bit abrupt