Doctor Cupid: A Novel

In 'Doctor Cupid', Victorian novelist Rhoda Broughton weaves a tale of love entanglements and societal expectations, a romantic narrative embroidered with her signature wit and incisive character portrayals. This novel, with its juxtaposition of an older, sensible sister and her passionate younger sibling, thrust into the complexities of forbidden love, serves as a commentary on the rigid social mores of Victorian England. Broughton's literary style in 'Doctor Cupid' is marked by lively dialogue and insightful descriptions, situating it within the context of late 19th-century literature where it straddles the line between the moralistic tales of the era and the burgeoning genre of sensational fiction. Rhoda Broughton, a niece of novelist Sheridan Le Fanu, was an early trailblazer for women in literature, and her own experiences and observations of the era's gender constraints are reflected in her work. Her personal acquaintance with the restrictions placed upon women's romantic choices lends authenticity and depth to the narrative of 'Doctor Cupid'. Broughton's own professional struggles and victories seep into the fabric of her characters' lives, infusing the work with a subtle critique of the societal norms she herself navigated. Recommended for enthusiasts of Victorian literature, 'Doctor Cupid' will appeal to those interested in the exploration of love, duty, and the pursuit of happiness within a strict social framework. Broughton's work is a must-read for its nuanced portrayal of women's experiences and the complexities of personal desire versus societal expectation. It is an engaging and thought-provoking novel that continues to resonate with modern readers.