Secret Sisters
Illinois, 1881: Beth Carrington is studying to become a doctor, but as the sole female student in the physicians’ program, she is constantly being singled out and penalized for her ambitions by her professors. Most females at Whitsitt College are studying Divinity, so Beth finds herself alone and ostracized. Then she has an inspiration: a women’s fraternity. A society for students like herself so they can connect and support one another. Her roommate Lily, Mary, and another woman staying at the boarding house become the founding members of Beta Xi Beta, but they risk expulsion, as secret societies are forbidden. There is only one fraternity allowed on campus, and Beth seeks their help. The all-male fraternity is run by Grant Richardson, the son of a coal tycoon and nephew to a congressman. His family heavily finances the college. While Grant doesn’t see a female fraternity as beneficial, he is intrigued by Beth and agrees to help her. Soon, feelings between Beth and Grant develop, but is she putting her budding fraternity at risk by trusting him?
Callaway’s historical details are fantastic. The way medical theory was used to classify women as inferior to men is absurd but also frightening in its honest portrayal. Thus, Callaway brings to life a diverse group of women to meet the stereotypes of 1881 head on. While there was a bit more romance than I expected, overall Secret Sisters is an intriguing story about intelligent women, perseverance, and the bonds of friendship.
