All She Left Behind is a fictionalized historical account of the life of Jennie Pickett, a woman from 1870s Oregon who becomes a doctor.

The novel follows the life of Jennie. It reads like a fiction story, with fictionalized conversations joining the recorded historical events. At first, it isn’t terribly clear where the story is going because it simply follows the Jennie’s life, starting from her wedding as a young woman. But by the end, the story showed that she was a woman worth remembering as a feminist, a woman doctor, and a loving wife and mother who overcame much to do what she did. It had a lot of feminist themes and contrasted the difficulties of women during the time to the joys of family and a marriage of equals.

I enjoyed this story and learned a lot about how women were treated during the time period. I cheer Jennie on for what she accomplished and am eternally grateful for the freedoms I enjoy as a woman in the United States. I appreciate that the author wrote about the real struggles Jennie went through, both from the sexists against her and in daily and family life. She wasn’t any more perfect than the men around her, and I am glad that was represented.

I recommend this book to those who are interested in learning about women feminists in history in a relatable way (as historical fiction).

I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and I was not obligated to give a positive review.

“It was as though she ran a race against time…and yet it was in being a doctor where she found the great joy that fed her love for all around.”
Calling all history buffs! “All She Left Behind” is based on the true story of Jennie Pickett Parrish, one of the first woman doctors in 1870 Oregon. This is a story of triumph and tragedy as this woman faces addiction and divorce.
“You’re a collector of lost souls, Jennie” She held her friend’s eyes with warmth. “It’s one reason why I love you so.”
It reads more like a biography than a fairy tale, do to the factual nature of Jennie’s life events. If you love books based off historical accounts, this book is for you. This is my first book by Jane Kirkpatrick and it won’t be my last. The author has done her research in both the account of Mrs. Parrish and the advancements of the medical field during the late 1800’s.
Jennie started out with homeopathic treatments and oils, so if you are into essential oils, this would be an interesting read.
“There are herbs. I have oils meant to help with that. I’m a healer. Please let us heal this, us.”
People have always had problems—always faced hardships. I think we tend to romanticize the past and forget that they faced the same difficulties that we face today.
“Life hands out would that need healing where one is ready or not.”
Was this book sad? A little depressing? Yes, but it was also eye-opening. Mrs. Parrish helped pave the way for woman to enter the medical field. She didn’t let her heart-breaking circumstances stop her from reaching her dreams.
“The world needs healers, Jennie. All kinds. You were willing to dream.”
In spite of social distain and a learning disability, she persevered against all odds.
“How far she’d come from the timid child afraid to stand in front of a class because she could not read.”
This book does address some adult topics like adultery, addiction, and medical treatments, so I would only recommend it for a mature readership.
“We are all disappointments to ourselves. But we are loved nonetheless.”

All She Left Behind is another great book by Jane Kirkpatrick! Her characters have depth, her dedicated research authenticates it, and the trials faced you into the story.. Jennie Pickett is an unusual woman for her time and is a real person in history. She has goals most women would not dream of pursuing. Her longing to be a physician and bring healing to others never leaves her. She is raising her young son with very little help from her husband and continues to find her way. She faces many disappointments and often wants to quit. How will she maintain her desires with all that is going against her?
This is another of my favorite books and I don't want to spoil any of the plot for you. It is worthy of reading!
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. My thoughts in my review are my own and I was under no obligation to write one.

Jane Kirkpatrick is an amazing author and storyteller. I always enjoy her work. Especially her latest masterpiece. Savor every page of this story. It's that good!

JAN
4
Kirkpatrick brings history alive!




I recently read Jane Kirkpatrick's historical fiction novel, All She Left Behind. This is another winner, in a line of Kirkpatrick's novels that bring real women to life in fiction. Meet Jennie Pickett, a fascinating, determined, brave young woman left out of history textbooks, yet an essential role model for all women who have ever chased a dream.

Jennie was surrounded by obstacles to the one thing she wanted more than anything. Some of these obstacles were caused by her poor choices, and others were beyond her control. However, Kirkpatrick weaves a thrilling tale of Jennie's tenacity and hope that propel her forward despite the odds.

Many years ago, I read my first Kirkpatrick novel, All Together in One Place. It focused on a group of women traveling together in the pioneer days to "go west." That was the first in a series, and ever since, I have been captivated by her novels that reveal these treasures -- these women -- in our history that we would never learn about without her talent and willingness to write. This novel continues this same adventure -- following a real woman in her real footsteps. The emotion and drama are raw and often heart-breaking. Yet Kirkpatrick always brings us back to hope through her stories of these women.

Kirkpatrick's writing style is beautiful. Her characters are vivid, with a strong voice, and a vibrant personality. I have tucked all of these women into my heart, and bring them out occasionally when I encounter a difficulty, a loss, or even just discouragement. Jennie is one I will not soon forget. I can relate to her on so many levels. I, too, have a dream I am chasing. It feels small and insignificant compared to Jennie's dream, and the effort she had to make, the sacrifices she did not shrink back from. Yet her story helps me move forward toward it.

Kirkpatrick's characters grab your heart. It took me a few chapters to really delve into the story, to get to know Jennie, and to sympathize with her challenges. But once I felt I knew her, I wanted to watch everything that shaped her into the woman she would become. Historic fiction is not often the type of book I reach for. Though I have now read many fantastic historic novels by different authors, I always am confident that ANY book written by Jane Kirkpatrick will be a winner. This one is no exception.

You will be changed by Jennie's story. No matter what your hope is, your dream is, your disappointment is, she will cheer you and energize you to face your future with faith!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. These opinions and words are my own.

This book was not at all what I expected. The synopsis did not set me up for the book that I read. Before I get into that though there’s a couple of warnings I need to throw out here. This book is based on a real person. It is a work of fiction but we all know that there is always a nugget of truth even in pure fiction. While based on a real person and a lot of research was put into her there is not a play by play account of Jennie’s life. Much can be ascertained from historical records and those ideas are used to create this book. That being said there is mention of spousal abuse. There is mention of alcoholism and drug abuse. These are things that may be offensive to some Christian readers as well as triggering to other readers. I do not in any way think that they negatively impact this book but I also know that different readers have different experiences.

This book is the story of Jane E “Jennie” Lichtenthaler Pickett Parrish. The life she lived, the people she loved, the struggles she overcame, the trails she blazed, the heartaches she endured. It’s about more than Jennie though, in my opinion. Yes, Jennie left a lot behind. A thriving medical practice, a family, unfinished business. But Elizabeth is the story that spoke to me the most. What she left behind created where this story led. Without Elizabeth there would have been no trails for Jennie to blaze. There would have been no family for her to love. No one would have cared all these years later about the life she lived. Elizabeth Parrish paved the way for Jennie. She had no idea that would be her outcome but sometimes the best way, right? The prologue did not enhance the story in any way and while I drew a few inferences to things that happened it was never returned to nor incorporated into the story in any meaningful way.

This story drew me into these characters that were filled with depth and personality. They filled the pages with a story that never caved under. I realize this is easier to do when it’s based on real people and real accounts of history. It’s also harder to do to keep it engaging and accurate. The writing style was engaging and I never felt a lag or lull even when there was little action and more narrator and storytelling. I’d recommend this book for anyone who likes a nugget of truth with their fiction. I’d recommend this story to anyone with an interest in history and even human behavior. While steeped in faith it’s not over the top or even jumping off the pages making it a great book for even a secular reader.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by NetGalley. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.

All She Left Behind by Jane Kirkpatrick is a marvellous Christian historical novel. It is an epic read that blends fact and fiction into a wonderful story.
Jane Kirkpatrick tells the story of a modern woman, a pioneer of her time who became a doctor. As well as researching into obstetrics. The reader 'feels' the passion of the leading lady to help those around her.
There is the difficult topic of alcoholism and drug dependency. It is heartbreaking to see the consequences of these taking hold. A terrible craving where everything else comes second to drugs and alcohol is terrible to witness.
The novel is peppered with tragedy. Life was precarious in the nineteenth century. Poor choices can spell disaster. Forgiveness ties in to this. "He had yet to forgive himself." Often we are the hardest person to forgive.
Characters sometimes lose the fight to survive. This description when facing death really lodged in my heart. "It's still a new beginning... Just one we have to take alone." Tears are referred to as 'liquid love' which I think is beautiful.
There are some very comprehensive descriptions of the landscape, making the area come alive for the reader.
God has a prominent part to play in the novel. There are some battles that only God can fight when we commit our struggles to Him in prayer.
Strong friendships in the novel withstand both time and tragedy.
All She Left Behind is an epic tale of nineteenth century pioneers of medicine. It is a wonderful story that both educates and entertains.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

Dr. Quinn with Grit

If you are a fan of Jane Kirkpatrick you will want to pick up this one and give it a read. If you have never read her work before, you will want to pick up this book if you like real life, hard reads that pull you in and you can’t stop reading no matter how hard the words are to hear. That’s a sign of an amazing author. Jane drew me in and I just couldn’t stop reading until it was over. There were definitely parts to this book that were very hard to read and I found myself wanting to pray for the characters. Disturbing, raw, realistic, real life situations… all fit into this read.

This book was out of my comfort zone and typical genre I read. I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Jennie Pickett and her struggle as a woman in 1800s Oregon to become/ fulfill her dream of being a physician.
The homeopathic elements were very interesting.
The character of Jennie was relatable, and told through her perspective - and the many obstacles she had to overcome with her own learning challenges , family life, and norms of society.
I would definitely read another novel by this author in the future.

I love reading stories about those that lived before me. Hearing about life in a certain era and realizing they struggled with the same things that we struggle with now is fascinating.

One amazing life's journey is the story of Jennie Pickett in All She Left Behind by Jane Kirkpatrick. When the story begins, Jennie is living with her sister's family and her husband and son in Oregon, shortly after the Civil War ended. Her husband works at a jail with her brother-in-law and is secretly addicted to drugs and alcohol. He is becoming more and more verbally and physically abusive with her. Jennie dreams of being a doctor but has struggled with reading and writing her entire life so she quenches her hunger for healing by using herbs to heal with naturopathy and hopes to one day be able to cure her husband's addiction.

When Charles secretly divorces her, and leaves her and their son for the "vile, enticing siren," that is drugs and alcohol, Jennie and her son move in with her parents and Jennie feels like her life is over. Little does she know that this choice by her addicted husband sets her on the path to her dreams.

At times, Jennie's story is slow and seems to drag in parts but isn't that life? It was a slower read for me, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. I felt such emotions as Jennie had to deal with quite a bit of loss in her life but I also rejoiced as I saw her dreams become reality. Being based on a true story, I enjoyed the author's notes at the end of the book that give even more details about Jennie and those she shared her life with as well as where the author found her sources.

Another treat was "Jennie's Herbs and Oils," which lists out what homeopathic physicians used in Jennie's day. Many of them are familiar and are still used to this day. There is also a short reader's guide which several questions that would be perfect for book clubs.

Though this story is a little on the slow side, I feel like it is worth the read. It is an inspiration to see a woman that is able to rise above her circumstances and fulfill her dreams despite the obstacles she faces.

I really enjoyed the story. Found it easy to read, wrapped up in her story and experience of alcohol and effects it had on the family. Found it a bit long at times, but appreciated the story so much more when at the back learnt that it was historical and taken from excerpts of others lives.

All she left behind is a fantastic heart wrenching love entangling , boundary pushing story . You start off in the book with Jennie getting married and having her husband falling – hitting his head – her wanting to help but of course she can't she is just a woman . Then all of a sudden she has a strong willed challenging three-year-old. She then realizes – hey wait I'm not going to tell you the whole story, let's just say something miraculous,I believe, but others wouldn't , happens and in that something serious will happen and she even maybe finds true love , all the while having this challenging son. I think she is amazing , a Blessing, true grit and strong as could be .

I can't get enough of Jane Kirkpatrick's historical novels. She has such a gift of resurrecting long forgotten figures from the past and allowing us to take a journey with them. Most of her leading characters are women and that's what we find in All She Left Behind.

Jennie Pickett is a young bride when we first meet her. A minor accident on her wedding day changes the entire scope of her married life. But Jennie is nothing but persistent. She's the epitome of "when life gives you lemons . . . make lemonade." For the first part of the novel we see Jennie being dealt blow after blow until the dreams she had for herself and her family seem impossible.

But Jennie serves a God of the possible. I don't want to give away the plot so I will just say that Jennie's story is inspiring. You will be reminded to never give up on a dream. It may be delayed far longer than you can imagine but if it's from God it will come to pass.

I can't stress enough to read the author's notes at the end. There is an epilogue that gives you part of the rest of the story. But the author's notes are like an epilogue to the epilogue. Fascinating stuff. If you are looking for a great read about a real person that will inspire you to dream big, this is the book for you!

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

Stories that take me back to a different time period always pique my interest. Even though Jennie Pickett didn’t seem to have much self esteem she did possess a dream. It wasn’t a dream that most women were encouraged to have. The though to have a lady doctor in the late 1800s was not very popular. It reminds me of the show Dr. Quinn. I loved that show because despite what the men though of her in town, she opened her own practice. Just like Dr. Quinn. Jennie was determined that she would become a doctor. Her strength to overcome so many obstacles was encredible to read.

She does give the elderly woman the best care possible when she finds out she is ill. When the woman dies Jennie is heartbroken and wonders what her widower and son will do know. Is it possible that Jennie has developed feelings for the widower?
The best part of this story is that it is based on a true story and the author really shines with the research she did to make the story authentic. As with all her books, the author writes with a style that captures each character and builds them slowly to be an intregal part of her beautifully written story. Jennie does have some bad luck when it comes to marriage, but perhaps that will change when she meets Josiah. He is a welcome addition to the story and encourages Jennie to fulfill her dream. I loved how the author brought up some hard subjects that some people are uncomfortable talking about.

Jennie had a big heart and wanted to treat everyone who was ill. She recognized the need to address alcoholism, and abuse. I can’t imagine the turmoil she went through as she spoke to patients who were afraid to speak up. Would you be willing to help women and children find shelter for them knowing that some didn’t approve? I found the book te quite a journey and loved how the author took us to many different scenarios that Jennie faced. Will she find true love again after getting hurt before? Will the community recognize her as a well respected and gifted doctor. I keep thinking about the scripture that says, “Treat your neighbor as you would want to be treated.” I think Jennie heard her calling on her life and wanted to treat the sick, because she would want the same for herself if she was ill. I loved her character and she will be one I remember for a very long time .

I received a copy of this book from Revell Books. The review is my own opinion.

This is an amazing account of the life of Jenny Parrish as she became a well known doctor in the Oregon Territory. This fictionalized story has such details and historical knowledge that the reader will feel a part of the story. Highly recommended!

This book made me laugh and cry a lot. It was so sad in many places. This is based on true people and Jennie’s life is so sad and happy. It was interesting to see how women were treated and what they go through each day. I love how she shows so much courage her whole life. I received this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

I like how this author takes real stories and incorporates them into her writings. She gives you insight into a time long past, but lets you feel like you could have been a part of them. Jennie has a gift of healing and uses it to help others, but wants to be able to do more. She wants to be a doctor, but that is not the norm for her time and place. She instead does what she can with what she has learned on her own and works to meet the best goal possible.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher, the review is entirely my own.

This is the first book written by Jane Kirkpatrick that I read. At first, I didn't realize that the book was based on an actual historical figure. When I realized that Jennie Pickett Parrish was a real physician in Oregon and the first female Vice President of Oregon Medical Society, I was totally intrigued. As a physician myself, I had such expectations to enjoy the story greatly.

Ms. Kirkpatrick's writing is easy to read and follow. The setting of Oregon in 1860s is quite realistic and she addresses quite a few social issues: divorce, addiction to alcohol and drugs, unconventional marriages, rights for blacks and women, and discrimination against women physicians as they took first steps to becoming trained in medicine. The plot has some interesting twists and turns. The thread of faith, prayer, and forgiveness was transparent throughout the story.

As much as I really wanted to love the book, I couldn't connect with the characters. Jennie, as kind, loving, compassionate, persistent and passionate about healing and helping people as she was, seemed too superficial and inconsistent. Her determination to get to medical school is admirable and her putting off schooling to raise her children first is understandable. But after she graduated from medical school, she seemed almost obsessed with medicine and providing other women the opportunity to succeed that she felt almost out of character from the original Jennie we met first.
Josiah is saintly, patient, loving, kind, compassionate, understanding, and too perfect. He provides everything Jennie ever wanted or needed but came off as cookie-cutter perfect hero.

I am disappointed that I didn't enjoy this book as much as I expected. It is a well-written realistic story with great and detailed research.
I received a review copy of this book from Revell via NetGalley. I was not required to write a review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

I didn't hate it but it wasn't what I was expecting
The story was ok but heavier than I expectet