THE NATURE OF FRAGILE THINGS by Susan Meissner – A Gripping Historical Fiction Mystery

Spoiler-Lite Synopsis

I have to start this review off saying there is nothing about Susan Meissner’s The Nature of Fragile Things that I did not like.

Meissner introduces us to Irish immigrant Sophie, a young woman who travels across the country to San Francisco as a mail order bride. We travel along with her as she meets and weds Martin Hawking within hours and becomes mother to Martin’s daughter, Kat. Although her circumstances are peculiar, Sophie chooses to embrace the security of her new position – the protection Martin affords, the household she now manages, and the child she cares for – but it doesn’t take long for her to realize things are not exactly as they seem with her new husband. The unveiling of the true nature of her husband comes to light as the ground tears apart in the now historic 1906 San Francisco earthquake. 

Why This Novel Works SO Well

1906 San Francisco Earthquake Book

I had been looking for a book on or centered around the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, for no reason other than being interested in it and discovered this one. I had no expectations for what this book would be about, except there would be some amount of earthquake plot in there. There was a bit less on the natural disaster than I had initially hoped for, but Meissner delivers SO much more that I didn’t even care! It was a historical fiction book that just did everything right. 

Engaging, Likable Characters & Female Friendship

Sophie is one of the most likable characters I’ve encountered in a while. I felt close to her and invested in what she was experiencing. She is strong and resilient, yet gentle, selfless, and feminine. She’s deeply devoted to the ones she loves – especially to young Kat – and desires to do the right thing. I really enjoyed her arc throughout the book. There’s also some wonderful, strong female friendships throughout the story that I enjoyed. 

Mystery Element

I loved the mystery surrounding Sophie’s husband Martin Hawking. It had me hooked and guessing from the very beginning until the end. This novel really takes you on a trip; it starts as though it’s going to be one thing and begins taking twists and turns the reader doesn’t expect.

Quality Writing

Meissner is a gifted author who writes believable dialogue and character interactions, as well as providing excellent descriptions without being too flowery. The novel is free of foul language or any graphic content, which I feel like is rare these days. 

Audibook Bonus!

As an aside, I listened to the audiobook version of this novel, narrated by Alana Kerr Collins. I downloaded it as something to listen to shortly after the birth of my son as my hands were occupied with feedings and diaper changes all day and night long. I don’t generally enjoy audiobooks, but this one made the book completely come to life! Collins uses an Irish accent for Sophie, and it really felt like I was listening to Sophie tell her story to me. It was also one of the most calming things I’ve ever listened to. I really enjoyed every minute of it. I honestly would recommend the audiobook version of this novel over just reading it for that reason. 

Final Rating:

The Nature of Fragile Things is a must-read for fans of historical fiction! I am so glad I picked it up, and I can’t wait to read more Susan Meissner books in the future!

Content Rating: Mild

some natural disaster peril

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Copyright Susan Meissner and Berkley. Image from Amazon.com.