An Ocean of Stars

by Imogen Martin

Boston, 1879. Phoebe Van Bergen has poured everything into the Van Bergen Women’s Hospital—her inheritance, her defiance, her desperate need to be more than society’s gilded ornament. Within its cramped wards, she matters.

Here, she is not the obedient fiancée of a man whose charm masks something darker. Here, she can breathe.

Then Dr. Douglas McLennan arrives from Scotland—brilliant, abrasive, and haunted by a loss so devastating he’s vowed never to love again. He dismisses Phoebe as a privileged do-gooder. She thinks him insufferably arrogant. Neither expects their clashes to become the most honest conversations of their lives.

But Phoebe is keeping secrets that could destroy her. And when Douglas becomes the one person who knows the truth—the shame she carries, the violence she’s survived—she knows he’s seen her at her most broken, and she might lose him forever.

When Phoebe finally breaks free of her engagement and travels to Scotland for a medical symposium, she never expects Douglas to be on the same journey—or for a catastrophic disaster on the Tay Bridge to strip away everything but what matters most. Faced with death, they must finally confront the question they’ve been running Is the risk of heartbreak worth the chance at being truly known?

A sweeping tale of passion, redemption, and the power of second chances, perfect for fans of Olivia Hawker, Amy Harmon and Kristin Hannah.

What readers say about An Ocean of Stars:

“I inhaled this book, genuinely struggling to put it down, but becoming panicked when I hit the 80% mark because I really didn't want it to end... there is a moment of such jeopardy, I genuinely thought I might stop breathing as I read... An absolute must-read. I could not love it more.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Oh my goodness, Imogen Martin has done it again, with a love story that swept me across continents and left me wrung out as a wet rag... The pull between them was as real as the reasons which kept them apart; believable, human and heart-rending. The words 'sweeping love story' could have been invented for this emotionally accomplished novel.” Eva Glynn, author of The Olive Grove, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A glorious Gilded Age romance with fascinating, complex, superbly crafted central characters whose chemistry sparkles in every encounter... I resented every moment I had to stop reading to do other things. This is a love story to relish.” Luisa A. Jones, author of The Gilded Cage, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Historical romance at its most immersive—thoughtful, moving, and beautifully detailed... I was completely absorbed from start to finish and closed the book feeling both heartbroken and hopeful.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Has it all!... I felt I was there experiencing every moment with Phoebe and Douglas on both sides of the Atlantic. Storytelling at its best — I loved it!” Jan Baynham, author of The Secret Sister, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I was swept away into this captivating and emotional historical romance... The author did a fantastic job of slowly unveiling the scars and painful pasts as the story unfolded.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Audiobook, Historical Romance, Romance

405 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 2, 2026

About the author

Imogen writes sweeping, historical fiction set in nineteenth century America.

As a teenager, she took the Greyhound bus from San Francisco to New York. Over those three days of staring out of the window at the majestic mountains and endless flat plains, stories wound themselves into her head: tales of brooding, charismatic men captivated by independent women.

Since then, she has worked in a coffee-shop in Piccadilly London, a famous bookstore, and a children’s home. She has run festivals, and turned a derelict housing block on one of the poorest estates in the UK into an award-winning arts centre.

During 2020 Imogen was selected by Kate Nash Literary Agency as one of their BookCamp mentees, a mentorship programme designed to accelerate the careers of promising new writers.

Married with two children, Imogen divides her time between Wales and Sardinia.

Reviews

[Shyames · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely adored this one, it was very hard to put down.

The book is set in Boston and Edinburgh in 1897. Phoebe is a wealthy philanthropist working on building the very first women's hospital in Boston, all while dreading the prospect of marrying her fiancé in the near future. On the recommendation of a professor she respects, Douglas arrives from far-away Scotland to become a doctor at her hospital. When he mistakes her for a nurse and roughly barks instructions at her to assist him, nothing suggests there's any relationship about to bloom. And yet...

I loved Phoebe's portrayal from every angle. Even though she's a member of one of the richest families in Boston, she's not immune to misfortune, domestic abuse, and the various pressures that come with being a woman in the 19th century. She takes her life for what it is and is determined to push through anything that comes her way. When she finally finds the courage to save herself, it's a pleasure to watch her determination in following her heart.

As for Douglas, he may be rough around the edges, but he isn't free of a tragic past either, which influences his career choices and his stance on relationships. His surprise at the hospital being run by a woman quickly changes into a deep respect for Phoebe's engagement and her determination to build an entire facility dedicated to women's health. He goes through a lot of conflicting emotions in a very short time, having to resolve his internal conflict, but fortunately, he does so without further ado.

A few accidents along the way, lucky circumstances, and destiny pulling them both together do a good job of ensuring nothing is left unresolved. I adored the banter immensely—a Bostonian heiress versus a Scottish grumpy doctor - what could be better than that! The historical setting worked its magic as well, and I found the descriptions of both Boston and Edinburgh in 1897, with their respective buildings, culture, and societal differences, perfectly done. Highly recommend this journey!

Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.

[Sheila The Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked this one up from NetGalley since I’m preapproved for Storm Publishing, and they’ve honestly been pretty consistent for me when it comes to historical fiction.

What really pulled me in right away though was the Boston setting. I’m always going to say yes to a book set there since I was born there and still miss it. There were little moments in this story that felt really personal for me, especially when Mount Auburn Cemetery came up. That’s right near my hometown, and it’s where several members of my family are laid to rest. It’s such a peaceful, beautiful place, so seeing it mentioned here felt like a quiet little connection back home.

That said, I do wish we had gotten more of Boston. It’s there, but not in a way that fully lets you sink into it. We also spend time in Scotland and get a couple of ocean crossings, which added some variety, but overall this leaned much more into romance than I was expecting.

And this is definitely a clean historical romance. The relationship is a big focus, and while it was sweet and easy to read, I found myself wanting just a little more depth from the historical side of things.

There was also one storyline that didn’t quite land for me. Her brother Thaddeus is involved in something that feels like it should matter more, but it never fully comes together in a satisfying way. It left me with a few questions that didn’t quite get answered.

Overall though, this was an enjoyable, lighter read. Nothing super heavy or deeply impactful, but a solid option if you’re in the mood for something easy with a strong romantic thread. I also noticed it’s now on Kindle Unlimited, which makes it even more accessible.

I’d rate this about 3.5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

[Sue Sykes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant read by Imogen Martin, just love her books and this one did not disappoint. The story of Phoebe Van Bergen from a well known and prominent Boston family and her tireless work to build a women’s hospital. The new Dr, Dr. Douglas McLennan arrives from Scotland and from the first meeting they both clashed but he was an exceptional Dr.
No spoilers here so all I will say is this is a most lovely story based in Boston and Scotland and a building to be proud of. This book is so well written with strong characters and will not disappoint you, but will make you happy and sad that it comes to an end.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and to Publisher Storm Publishing for the chance of the early read, my biggest thanks to Imogen Martin who is a most gifted story teller and I just loved this book.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Ocean of Stars by Imogen Martin completely swept me away. I absolutely adored this book.

Phoebe was first introduced in a prior novel about Ginny and Lex, and it was such a pleasure to finally step fully into her story. Although Phoebe is extremely wealthy, she’s wonderfully down to earth—grounded, practical, and full of common sense in a way that makes her instantly relatable. Douglas McLennan is her fabulous counterpart: charming, layered, and the perfect balance to Phoebe’s steady presence.

Imogen Martin has a true talent for creating characters who feel real, nuanced, and deeply human. I was fully invested from start to finish and didn’t want their story to end. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC—I cannot wait to see who Imogen Martin brings to life next.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imogen Martin never fails to enchant, inspire and enlighten me with her riveting historical fiction. An Ocean of Stars is a beautiful emotionally charged story that truly captivated my heart. I just could not stop reading as I became so involved with the characters’ lives that they felt like real people I would enjoying knowing!

It is 1879. The novel is off to a racing start from page one when Dr McLennan literally deboards the sailing ship, is picked up by a Van Bergen employee and ferried away quickly to an emergency at the women’s hospital. All this before he even gets to unpack or arrive at his accommodation. Then he is met by Mrs Hale who leads him through the facility where a ‘strong noxious smell’ hits him. Apparently from overloaded drains with too many patients for the size of the building. It is easy to see why Phoebe is so keen to build a new and larger facility. When the Scottish doctor encounters the patient he has been asked to urgently help, he gets frustrated by the rules imposed upon him by a woman who he thinks is a nurse. He is annoyed by the lack of respect for him and becomes increasingly agitated.

The next scene I cannot help but mention for its humour. It is the day after Dr. Douglas McLennan’s arrival. He returns to his new place of employment but to attend a meeting with the president of the Board of Trustees for the hospital. He is astonished to see the ‘incompetent’ nurse occupy one of the chairs and tries to think of a way to remove her. So he asks for a cup of tea which she obliges to do. Her reason, though, is amusing, and she desires to play along. Mrs. Hale and Phoebe have a good laugh, knowing the doctor is not aware of who she is. The rest that follows is a fun and moving story of how these two opinionated characters deal with their misconceptions and barriers.

This novel delivers an excellent development in characterisation. An Ocean of Stars focuses on the second chances, passion, penitence and redemption of these two brilliant generous souls, Phoebe Van Bergen and Dr. Douglas McLennan. They come together on a professional level for a worthy cause: a women’s hospital. Their first encounter with each other, as noted, is a frosty one. Douglas arrives from Scotland with hopes to put his troubled past behind him. He has suffered a loss that haunts him but he wants to work hard and make a difference in the medical realm. Yet his first experience with the American hospital is not a pleasant one. Phoebe is annoyed by his presumptions and seemingly arrogant attitude.

As we dig deeper into the layers of these two characters, we learn they each have had some very bad personal experiences. As a result, they have created walls and formed opinions that mask or cover their wounds (literally in one case). The immediate friction and frustration between them eventually fades in their quiet, unguarded moments. Phoebe initially thinks Douglas is rude and disrespectful to her and the hospital staff. But eventually respect begins to build as she watches him work and sees his strengths and capabilities. He is an incredible doctor with the same vision for her hospital. But they go through a lot together and apart before the deeper realisations come. As they deal with family members, disasters and encounters with the past, the walls fall and the unveiling of naked truths move them forward to a happy future. Phoebe must deal with her fears and engagement to an opportunist. Douglas worries for her as his feelings continue to increase but he also must face his own ghosts and learn that he deserves a second chance at love. Which begins with a trip home to a symposium where lots of surprises await.

I admired Phoebe. She lived in a time when women’s every movement was governed by men. Phoebe often bucked this archaic set of rules and had courage to go against the culture. Her strength, vitality and honourable ambitions took her far as she used her family’s wealth to create better health care for women. Dr. Douglas McLennan is the smart, handsome hero (yes, he actually saves more than one life in different situations outside of the hospital) who brings new medical ideas and ways into the mix. It is easy to see why they are a good match in business aspirations but also as friends and romantic partners. There are some negative characters who try to slow this pair down, but lovely supporters like Mrs Hale and Douglas’s sister offer encouragement and insight.

This is a solid and exciting novel with a brilliant outcome. I loved An Ocean of Stars so much I really cannot praise it enough. This stunning love story has emotional depth. I was moved and mesmerised and felt truly transported to the atmospheric historical setting through the descriptions, dialogue and characters. I loved, loved, loved this novel that now is my favourite book by Imogen Martin. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC

[Amanda Bennett at passionforprose · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a few slower nonfiction reads, I pivoted to an author whose historical romances are easily devoured in one sitting. An Ocean of Stars by Imogen Martin delivers exactly what I’ve come to expect from her: strong female leads and an engaging plot that makes it nearly impossible to set the book down.

Phoebe Van Bergen, born into a prominent Boston Brahmin family, is expected to marry well and move gracefully through society. Though engaged to a man of equal standing, she quietly resists setting a date, feeling increasingly trapped by expectations that don’t align with her ambitions. Her true passion lies in founding a women’s hospital, something her guardian and older brother dismisses as little more than a hobby.

When Dr. Douglas McLennan arrives as her newest recruit, Phoebe is unimpressed by his high-handed manner and lack of regard for her authority. Yet as his guarded past slowly comes into focus, so does her understanding of the trauma that shaped him. When a catastrophe quite literally throws them together, professional tension gives way to something far deeper.

The novel leans heavily on the miscommunication trope, but it’s still an enjoyable, fast-paced read. For a story centered on women’s health, I did wish for more historical depth on the state of women’s healthcare at the time. Still, this is firmly historical romance rather than historical fiction—the relationship takes center stage, and for readers looking for swoon over scholarship, it delivers.

Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and author Imogen Martin for the advanced copy of the book. An Ocean of Stars is out March 2nd. All opinions are my own.

http://www.instagram.com/passionforprose

[Tammy Moldovan · Rating 5 out of 5]

<>Love, healing and redemption

I was swept away into this captivating and emotional historical romance set in 1879. I loved the healing and redemption that was woven beautifully with social commentary and history of the rights and constraints of being a woman during this time period. The history nerd in me loved the glimpses into 19th century life, women’s rights and medicine. And the sappy romantic in me loved Claire and Douglas‘s love story. Phoebe is from a wealthy Boston family. She is engaged to be married to a gregarious but abusive man. While she’s resigned herself to the marriage, her passion is building a hospital to care for women. Douglas is a widower and a Scottish physician who arrives in Boston to work at the small women’s hospital started by Phoebe. Due to his past, he never intends to remarry. When they first meet, Phoebe and Douglas do not like each other but as time goes on, they both end up admiring and respecting each other but still keep their distance. There is delicious pushing-pulling in their relationship as they deal with feelings, family, and society. Everything changes after a tragic accident, but to find their way to an HEA, they’ll have to be baggage unpacking, healing, and truth telling. The author did a fantastic job of slowly unveiling the scars and painful pasts of Claire and Douglas as the story unfolded and their relationship deepened. It made both characters very real and relatable as they tried to do their best as a messy humans living complicated lives within the constraints of society. This is my first book by this author but it will not be my last. I loved the writing style, the depth of characters, and the richness of the storyline.

[Ashley Kalhagen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been looking forward to a new Imogen Martin book ever since I discovered her last year, and An Ocean of Stars became another favorite. I like how she incorporates historical fiction with romance, and her fast paced storytelling and interesting characters. This book is a companion to Under A Gilded Sky, but can be read on its own. It was fun to revisit characters from that book in this one!
There were a lot of components to this story, from Douglas’ difficult past, his and Phoebe’s working relationship, Phoebe’s abusive relationship, and the family drama she also has going on. It made for a compelling story that had me interested the whole way through. If you’re a fan of historical fiction but would like it to be slightly heavier on the romantic plot line, I highly recommend Imogen Martin as an author!
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Tammy O · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not expect to like this book so much, but I couldn’t put it down! The story moves along at a good clip with a lot happening. There were several likable characters, along with some unlikable and even despicable ones. I liked Phoebe and wanted her to succeed with her hospital. The Gilded Age setting in Boston pulled me in; the ship crossing to Liverpool and train ride to Edinburgh were wonderful.

Thanks to the publishers at NetGalley for an advanced reader copy for review.

[C.R. Comacchio · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advance copy.

Imogen Martin writes a solid historical romance set in Boston and Edinburgh at the turn of the 20th century. In both settings, you can almost hear the unrelenting hustle and hum of the industrial age, with new feats of railway building especially in the forefront. The main female character, Phoebe, is the no nonsense only daughter of the Van Bergens, whose fortune in construction will bypass her in favour of her twin brothers, thanks to the laws of the time. Women could hold property in their own right only if single. Even then, it was at their disposal only with the signature of their nearest male relative. Any money brought into marriage belonged immediately to their husbands, even after divorce, the ‘hysteria’ that provided a pseudo-scientific justification to lock them in an asylum for the remainder of their lives. And of course there were countless other ways in which women were deprived of rights and citizenship status solely because of their gender.

Phoebe has it better than most, in that her wealth opens doors into public spaces otherwise firmly shut to women. As the story opens, she is engaged to an unprincipled and dangerous man, but unmarried. With one brother’s permission, she is able to set up a barely adequate hospital for women and children. And she insists on taking her place on site, in its running, and in a campaign calling on all Boston’s elite to donate for a new, state of the art hospital. She wants to hire only the best physicians, those experienced in women’s and children’s ailments, especially the afflictions associated with pregnancy and childbirth.

To that end, her former ladies’ college mentor, an important Scottish medical professor, strongly recommends a brilliant former student to take on the current and later the new hospital’s director role. The young and handsome Edinburgh native, Dr Douglas McLennan. McLennan has no sooner disembarked than he is hauled off to the hospital to attend to a tortuous labour. Mistaking Phoebe for a mere nurse, he sets off on the wrong foot. They dislike each other from the start.

I really didn’t much like Phoebe in the beginning. She is clearly intelligent and capable, but also
imperious, keen to show off her charitable endeavours, all
backed up by family money and inherited social status. She claims that McLennan is rude and ‘rustic,’ and humiliates him by insisting on a lengthy probationary period . But McLennan is keen to start over in America, and to distance himself from a youthful tragedy that all but estranged him to his own wealthy family. Phoebe, meanwhile, is caught in her own dilemma. When Douglas saves her, first in Boston and then again in Scotland where they are the only survivors of the Christmas Day collapse of the famous Tay Bridge (a true story), their relationship becomes a way of healing themselves and each other.

I like the way the author showed glimpses into the treatment of women in an American society that declared itself ‘modern’ and ‘progressive.’ It was especially interesting to see how women, if they had the skills or other means to support themselves financially, were often better off unmarried. She also unveils the period’s hypocrisy and double standards concerning sexuality. McLennan, especially in contrast to the calculating half of the Van Bergen twins and to the nasty fiance, seems too good to be true. But, on the whole, Martin tells a captivating story.

[Deanna Loves to Read!!:) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Phoebe Van Bergen is a wealthy young heiress who has started a womens hospital. Douglas McLennan is a Scottish doctor looking to start over in Boston and get away from trauma in his past. When they first meet, there is miscommunication and misperception. This trope follows them throughout the entire book.

Phoebe is also dealing with a traumatic sexual abuse situation with her fiance. Her older brother does not take her seriously, and seems to constantly dismiss her. Eventually, Douglas comes to see who she really is- a woman passionate about creating a safe environment and medical place for women of all socio economic situations.

So, I am torn. On one hand, we have a clean romance. However, I was not really engaged in this. There seemed to be too many times of miscommunication. The two lead characters were each dealing with trauma from the past and present, I did not feel the urgency in the situations. There is healing and even redemption in the story.

On the other hand, when I read the blurb, I was excited to read about a free thinking woman fighting to open the hospital at a time when this was not seen as a priority. I am fascinated about the history of women. Thinking I'd get informed and a little clean romance was a win for me.

But... the story surrounding the hospital was very lacking. I wanted to know about the women they were caring for, how did Phoebe even get interested in this, and how did she accomplish this. We are told that she used some of her money to buy the house that the hospital was in, but how did she know what would be needed, how did she convince doctors to believe in her cause and come to work there, what were the things she had to fight against to even get the building approved as a medical facility???? There was very little of this in the story. They take care of a few women, but no meat as to how Phoebe became this champion. I was hoping that the author would have a note at the end of the book, but nope. SO I have been reading about this fascinating era of women on my own!

So overall, it was a decent read. I guess I was hoping for more depth into an area of women that I feel is very pertinent and important today.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[aishareadsnrambles · Rating 4 out of 5]

REVIEW
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

STORYLINE :
FMC, Phoebe Van Bergen is an heiress who's committed to building a hospital for women only, a notion not championed in the 1800s. She looked like she had a perfect life, but she had her issues, too. The MMC is a Scottish doctor who's looking for a new beginning in Boston.
The book was centred on the women's hospital, modern medicine, and the romance between the MCs.
I loved the romance between the MCs. They were good for each other, healed each other, and supported each other. I liked the pace of their relationship, not too fast or slow, just perfect. I loved seeing them get over their traumas, especially the FMC.
I liked the storyline, it was good and I had no problem reading it, but I felt some parts were more developed than others. I would have loved to read more about the hospital, its patients, nurses, and doctors I would also loved to read more about the new one Phoebe was building. The book ended so abruptly too, I wanted more of the HEA.

CHARACTERS:
The characters were amazing from badass fearless Phoebe who went against society's norms to build a hospital to the brilliant gallant Doctor Douglas. I liked them both individually and together. But, I would have loved to see more of them when they got together
I also liked that even though there were only two POVs, I still got the hang of who the other characters are. Like Nurse Adeline and Phoebe's family.

WRITING STYLE:
It was okay, fast-paced, and I had no issues with it. I liked that there were important historical details inserted.

SETTINGS:
I loved the Boston and Edinburgh setting. Especially the Edinburgh one which included a medical seminar, the rugged setting, loved it, and the mention of important HCWs then, especially the women, especially Florence Nightingale (I'm particular because I'm a Nurse).


OVERALL:
I'm such a huge fan of Imogen Martin, and so far, I love everything of hers I've read. Obviously, this was no exception. I liked almost everything about this book and it was a fast read for me. I couldn't stop once I started despite my busy schedule

[Darla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading an HF title by Imogen Martin is a bit like ending your day with a soothing bubble bath.

The prose rolls by so smoothly as the well-developed characters help us to learn about the nineteenth century.

This is my second read from the author and here is what I liked:

🏥In 1879 Boston, a socialite named Phoebe Van Bergen is determined to improve health care access for women. She uses her influence to plan a new hospital. Will her family stay out of her way?

👨‍⚕️Dr. Douglas McClennan takes a post at the fledgling institution and gets off on the wrong foot. A series of missteps will plague his relationship to Phoebe, but they clearly have a shared vision. Will he find a way to stay in Boston?

🚂Phoebe is a railroad heiress so there is much talk about the boom in train transport. Is it safe or are some cutting corners for the sake of speed? I would also note that Miss Van Bergen travels across the Atlantic to and from the United Kingdom. On her return trip she travels on the Cunard Line which was also the parent line for the Lusitania (featured in a recent read called A Crown of Stars.

📚There is a companion book to this one Under a Gilded Sky and it is set in my home state of Missouri. I usually prefer to read books in order, but this one works just fine as a standalone. I look forward to checking out a book featurine Phoebe's brother Lex and wife Ginny.

While this was very well written, I prefer having more real characters from history in my HF titles. It appears that the research Imogen Martin did was setting oriented and I commend her for that. Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, can we just admire that gorgeous cover? An ocean journey is an important part of the story, however most of the book is set firmly on dry land. Phoebe Van Bergen is from a rich family living in late 19th century Boston and she has ambitions to create a first class hospital for women. She is a driven and strong character who recognises that she can use her society connections to raise the funds to realise her ambition. When Dr Douglas McLennan arrives from Scotland, he mistakes her for a nurse and is rather arrogant and dismissive towards her. There were some rather amusing scenes as first Phoebe plays along with him and then he realises his mistake.

It’s clear from the outset that these two would be well suited to each other but Phoebe is already engaged and following a tragedy, Dr McLennan has vowed never to marry. Phoebe is rather trapped in her relationship and certainly unhappy. Her fiancé was just awful, a horrible man who was cruel and vindictive. I really felt for her. Despite her money and position in society, she had just as many constraints on her life as women from poorer parts of society.

Not all the book takes place in America though and both Phoebe and Douglas travel back to Scotland for a conference on women’s health so there are scenes in both Edinburgh and Dundee. Here they get caught up in the dramatic events of the Tay Rail Bridge Disaster which forces them to face their feelings for each other. I don’t know Dundee very well, but I felt the author captured the feel of 19th century Edinburgh really well. I enjoyed reading about places I know well such as the Royal Botanic Garden, in what was then a relatively new location.

I particularly enjoyed the social history which the author incorporated so well into the story. It was so interesting to read about how women’s healthcare was developing for example, as well as what life was like for women across different levels of society.

An Ocean of Stars is just the kind of historical fiction I enjoy with great characters, especially strong women, compelling storytelling, and a pleasing romance too. It’s the first book I’ve read by Imogen Martin but I’d be very happy to read more from her in the future.

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say that I was totally emersed in this story from the first page is possibly an understatement, Imogen Martin has written such wonderful, diverse characters, some very likeable and some deplorable but all add to this beautifully told story.
Phoebe Van Bergen was a wealthy, Boston socialite, she could have lived a life of luxury and ease but Phoebe was driven with ambition, the ambition to build the best woman's hospital in the US, only the fact that it would bear the Van Bergen name were her snobbish mother, her arrogant, overbearing brother and his social climbing wife on board with what they thought of as her "hobby", non of them could wait for her to marry her abusive gold digging fiancé, Hector Gregson.
Phoebe had big plans for the hospital, she would fund raise and even use her inheritance to make it happen, in the meantime she had rented a three story house for the women in need, it wasn't ideal but it was better than nothing.
On the advise of her friend, Professor Moncrieff, she had appointed Scottish Doctor, Douglas McLennan to work in the hospital. Dour, but handsome Douglas and Phoebe clashed from the word go, they argued, she had never been spoken to or treated like that, Douglas McLennan needed to be taught a lesson, and Phoebe was just the person to do it, she might be a woman, but she was a woman with guts......Oh, and a sense of humour.
After a short period, there was a grudging appreciation, she was awed by his medical skills and likewise he was awed by her drive and ability to get things done.
The attraction between them soon became evident but guilt over the death of his wife had Douglas vowing never to marry again and Douglas was the only man that knew Phoebe's shameful secret, a secret that would deter any man from taking her as their wife.
Phoebe and Douglas' journey stretched across the ocean from Boston to the Scottish Highlands, it was fraught with heartbreak and danger but also with laughter and an all consuming love.
Thank you Storm Publishing for this ARC, my review is totally voluntary.

[Shreedevi Gurumurty · Rating 5 out of 5]

A compelling narrative that explores how lives, much like iron girders, can break under pressure and be rebuilt stronger.

​In the late 19th century, wealthy American women transformed from mere benefactors into medical professionals. Dr. Mary Putnam Jacobi and Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell (who founded the New York Infirmary for Indigent Women and Children) were central figures. They didn't just sign checks; they performed surgeries and lectured at medical symposiums, challenging the "biological" argument that women were too frail for medicine.
​Anne Morgan and Edith Wharton later expanded this by establishing frontline hospitals and mobile dispensaries. These women faced immense societal pressure; pursuing a medical career was often viewed as a "betrayal" of their class and gender roles. They persevered by leveraging their social status to secure funding that male-led institutions refused, creating safe havens for vulnerable women who otherwise lacked access to dignified care.

​The Tay Bridge Disaster: A Night of Iron and Gale
​On the night of December 28, 1879, during a violent storm, the first Tay Rail Bridge in Scotland collapsed while a train was crossing.
​The Moments Before: The 5:27 PM train from Burntisland entered the "high girders" section at approximately 7:15 PM. Onlookers saw sparks flying from the wheels as the gale reached Force 10-11.

​The Cause: Designed by Sir Thomas Bouch, the bridge had fatal flaws: the use of brittle cast iron, poor bracing against lateral wind pressure, and "lug" failures on the piers. The wind simply pushed the high girders—and the train within them—into the Firth of Tay.

​Victims & Survivors: There were no survivors. Approximately 75 people perished. Only 46 bodies were ever recovered.

​The Aftermath: The disaster remains one of the worst structural failures in engineering history. A public inquiry blamed Bouch for "insufficiently" considering wind loading, leading to his professional ruin and a total overhaul of bridge-building standards, eventually resulting in the much sturdier Forth Bridge.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

"It was the frustrating pattern of their relationship: easy warmth followed by awkward distance."

An Ocean of Stars is a beautifully written historical fiction/romance story. In it, we meet Phoebe van Bergen. She is a society girl, coming from one of the richest families in Boston, but she desperately wants to break away from that inheritance and do something good. She's rented a home and turned it into a hospital for women. Now that it is bursting out of its seems, Phoebe is dreaming of building something even bigger and better. To help run the hospital, she is hiring a new doctor. Enter Dr. Douglag McLennan. The brooding doctor has just arrived from Scotland. While he is good at what he does, he's your typical smug and arrogant doctor, so Phoebe decides to put him on probation, rather than give him the job straight away. But a lot can change in 6 months. Especially when Phoebe is hiding secrets that are soon discovered by Douglas. And what is Douglas fleeing away from on the other side of the Atlantic?

I had really enjoyed one of Imogen Martin's earlier books (To The Wild Horizon) despite it being more of a romantic story than I normally enjoy. And well, she is back. No one quite writes a young woman trying to step away from societal expectations all consequences be damned, or a brooding male character who is more stubborn than the most stubborn mule you've ever come across, quite like Imogen Martin does. The story is of course wholy predictable, but that's why I read these books. To find a romace story that is set against an interesting historical setting (because the setting is full of detail and therefore so rich it is almost like watching a movie) which also teaches me a thing or two. It's a comfort read and sometimes that hug in book form is just what you need.

Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for providing a Digital Advanced Reader Copy of the book. This review is entirely my own.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was 1879 in Boston, and Phoebe Van Bergen, whom everyone believed was a wealthy socialite, was deep in the planning of her new Women's Hospital. The one she currently ran was out of an old home, and too small for the volume of people who came through. Using her own resources, and every donation she could put her hands on, the plans were slowly coming to fruition. Phoebe was also engaged to a cruel, brutal man, who was all kindness and concern on the outside, and couldn't see a way of getting out of the engagement. And when the hospital's new doctor arrived from Scotland, Dr Douglas McLennan, she found him to be a rude and arrogant man; while he found her incompetent and flighty. Of course, he didn't know who she really was...

When Phoebe was invited to a symposium in Edinburgh, by her mentor, she was desperate to go. Refusing to bow to her fiance's orders, she organised a friend and fellow hospital employee, Mrs Hart, to accompany her on the ship to Britain. But trouble was ahead for them in Scotland with a devastating tragedy which would tear lives apart.

An Ocean of Stars is the 4th by Imogen Martin that I have read (so all of them) and I've loved them all. Exceptionally written characters, with Phoebe a strong young woman, courageous and caring, and Douglas a grief stricken young man, trying to assuage his guilt. When the tragedy struck, I googled it as I was sure it had happened, and it had. I love the author's writing, and look forward to her next historical novel. Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley & Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read and review.

[Meg Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Ocean of Stars by Imogen Martin tells an epic, emotionally rich love story that unfolds over just a couple of years, yet feels vast in scope and deeply lived-in. This is historical romance at its most immersive—thoughtful, moving, and beautifully detailed.

Set against the rigid social expectations of the late 19th century, the novel follows Phoebe Van Bergen and Dr. Douglas McLennan, two wounded souls carrying profound pain they struggle to voice. Martin’s writing is lush and well researched, bringing Boston and Scotland vividly to life while grounding the story in the realities of the era—particularly for women navigating power, ambition, and vulnerability in a society determined to limit them.

The antagonists are genuinely awful in the most effective way—cruel, manipulative, and impossible not to loathe—while Phoebe and Douglas are characters you can’t help but root for. Their relationship is a slow, sometimes frustrating burn, shaped by miscommunication, fear, and unspoken trauma, but that realism only makes their emotional journey more rewarding. Watching them learn to trust, to heal, and to move forward together is deeply satisfying.

What truly stands out is the care with which sensitive topics such as abuse and assault are handled. These elements are written with compassion and restraint, never sensationalized, and always respectful of both the characters and the historical context. The result is a story that feels honest, poignant, and quietly powerful.

An Ocean of Stars is not just a romance—it’s a story about resilience, purpose, and finding light after darkness. I was completely absorbed from start to finish and closed the book feeling both heartbroken and hopeful.

✨ I received an ARC; this is my honest review.

[Tzia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say I found this book hard to get into at first but really devoured it once the story got going. Set in Boston, we follow Phoebe Van Bergen as she strains against the boundaries and strives to build a brand new hospital exclusively for women's medicine. An unpopular decision with her family, and unseemly to popular society, she strikes out on her own - but all is not as it seems. Despite being the wealthy heiress to a railroading family, Phoebe isn't as free to act as she might like; until the arrival of one Dr Douglas McLennan from Scotland.

This was a real slow burn of a story, set over about 2 years and slowly unfolding. The story takes an unexpected turn a couple of times and each time you as a reader can't help being pulled along with it and investing more. I found Phoebe irritating at points but overall she's a character you can't help respecting, and deeply empathising with. Likewise with Douglas, he starts somewhat brusque and difficult to warm to but in the end you can't help being taken with him.

The couple of frustrations I had were that the pacing did seem very slow - it suits the book but I think that's why I found it hard to invest in initially. Also, I really would have liked some more resolutions for the characters aside from Douglas and Phoebe. Did Hector get his comeuppance? What was going on with Thaddeus and the financial situation? I would have liked those threads resolved.

However those things aside, I very much enjoyed this and have come away wanting to find out more about the real pioneers of womens health in the 19th century - this is a surprisingly thought provoking book as well as being a gentle but emotive read.

- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me the ARC in exchange for an honest review -

[Amelia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I requested this book partly because I loved Martin's earlier book To the Wild Horizon, and I was keen to try something else by her. This one is set in Boston and Scotland and follows the relationship between Phoebe Van Bergen, a wealthy American heiress, and Dr Douglas McLennan, the doctor who comes to work at the women's hospital she has set up. Both have secrets and clash initially, but as time goes on they begin to understand each other better.

This was pretty much a straightforward, mainly clean historical romance novel, and it was sweet with some interesting events. There wasn't a lot of period detail, enough to sketch the surroundings but things got a little more what I would call modern towards the end. I liked Douglas McLennan, Phoebe took longer to grow on me, but they were a cute couple and while I didn't often feel drawn to pick up the book I did enjoy it while I was reading.

So, why only three stars and the faint praise? Purely because I'm not a big romance reader. I like more of a story around the romance: for example, I'd have really enjoyed hearing more about the women who come to the hospital, and I was curious about the railroad company that Phoebe's family owned. Her brother was in charge of building a new line in Canada and it would have been nice to get some more about that. But this is just a personal preference. The book is fine as it is and if you enjoy historical romance then you'll probably really like this. I'd definitely read more by Martin in the future, she has another couple of books out that I'm keen to try.

Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author and I was pleasantly surprised.

In this story, set in Boston in 1879, we have Phoebe who is a single (but engaged) woman throwing herself into the creation of a women's hospital and Douglas who is a Scottish doctor coming to work at this hospital. Both characters have more going on than meets the eye. They get off to a rocky start but throughout the novel they chip away at each others secrets, go through many ups and downs, and slowly grow closer to each other. The book very quickly drops the reader in the time frame and world of our characters. The setting felt very real and I got a sense of life for people of this class in this time.

This was a solid 3.5 stars (I'll round up) for me with just a few minor things holding me back. First, for a book about a hospital I would have liked a little more of the medical world. I know that the book is about our two characters more than their job, but having started the book with a patient interaction I felt like I'd have liked more of that sprinkled in. I also felt that at times the characters were too quick to make assumptions about each other based on one simple line of dialogue with no follow up. If this had been what they did with all other characters in the book it would make more sense, but these simple miscommunications only occurred with each other as a plot device.

I would definitely recommend as this was a solid read.

Thank you NetGalley for providing an advanced copy for my honest review.

[claudia reads it all · Rating 2 out of 5]

A doctor with a tragic past and a woman with a horrible present meet in this underwhelming story where everyone acts like they're in a CW show. Misunderstandings? Yes. Endless assumptions? You got it. Whiplash inducing feelings where they hate, no lust after, no, really hate, no, they love, each other? Unfortunately yes.

Phoebe Van Bergen is the society daughter who has a heart of gold and runs a hospital for women. Everyone in her life is horrible. Her fiance Hector is a pig, her brother is a piece of crap, his wife is an empty headed bitch, you get the picture. When she meets the new doctor, she immediately assumes the worst and decides she despises him, but you know how these things go, she really doesn't.

Douglas McLennan is from Scotland. You know this because he says "cannae" and "dinnae" a lot. He arrives in Boston and goes to the hospital where he is immediately offended by Phoebe and everything she says and does. And then he finds out she's the rich lady financing things. And then he finds out what she is really going through.

They're thrown together a bunch because of course they are, no matter if the circumstances make sense, and then each assumes the other could never possibly want them and they go their separate ways and honestly this pair of fools deserved to end up alone, but you know how these things go.

Good grief.

Thanks, NetGalley. I think.

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this historical set in 1879 (mostly Boston but there is some travel to Scotland) centered around Phoebe Van Bergen, a wealthy young heiress who is striving to build a modern new women's hospital using some of her family's resources and raising funds from the elite of Boston society.

The book details instances of Phoebe's struggles to be taken seriously in her endeavors as well as her own personal abuse (sexual) from her fiancé and the scant attention paid to her from most of her family members. She hires a Scottish doctor (Douglas McLennan) with whom she gets off on the wrong foot, but as they both discover the other's secrets/heartbreaks, they begin to become friends/supporters of each other. As Phoebe is encouraged by Douglas to be brave, she makes some bold decisions both personally and professionally. And Douglas, living with a past tragedy, must make some important decisions regarding his future.

I liked the characters in this book, especially how they overcame and gained strength from adversity. I had a small disappointment about how Douglas handled a horrific event involving Phoebe, but overall, I found the progression of the protagonists' relationship sweet and hopeful.

I would definitely like to read more from Imogen Martin.

My thanks to the author, NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing the free early arc of An Ocean of Stars for review. The opinions are strictly my own.

[Lori Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC through Netgalley to read, this is an honest review.

Thank you to Storm Publishing for the pre-approved to read this book.

An Ocean of Stars is truly a stellar, poignant historical fiction surrounding the relationship of Phoebe Van Bergen and Dr. Douglas McLennan. From their first fiery meeting when the doctor shows up to take a job at the woman's hospital Phoebe is trying to make the beat medicine possible for women within Boston in 1879. Douglas sees only a wealthy woman "playing nurse" as he is fastly brought in to treat a patient in most desperate need. Phoebe views Douglas as a stubborn man that cannot imagine a woman could know anything beyond "feminine" things. As time passes, before Phoebe and Douglas find they misjudged each other and discover a deep comfortable friendship within the halls of the hospital; and outside of prying eyes, a blossoming romantic relationship. Burdened by society hierarchy and personal shadows kept the pair from being a both as hell want things to be. When fate hands Phoebe the ultimate chance to pursue her deep feelings of Douglas in Scotland everything changes neither of them could have foreseen... their personal darkness laid truly bare and finding new warmth and light guiding them into a brighter future.

Highly recommended.

[Kitty Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a committed fan of Imogen Martin’s writing I could not wait for this book and was thrilled to read an advance copy, and I was not disappointed. As she can be relied upon to do, the author weaves exquisite historical detail through the pages, really bringing each scene to life and as a reader I am fully there with characters, feeling every emotion, witnessing every action and being thoroughly caught up in the story. The writing is insightful and empathetic, and I always come away from these books feeling that I have learnt something new. I inhaled this book, genuinely struggling to put it down, but becoming panicked when I hit the 80% mark because I really didn’t want it to end. I won’t give spoilers but there is a moment of such jeopardy, I genuinely thought I might stop breathing as I read. An Ocean of Stars takes the reader through all of the emotions and I found it utterly immersive. I have loved every single book of Imogen’s but this one this is my new favourite. I can see myself returning to it time and time again and am already telling everyone I know that it is an absolute must-read. I could not love it more.

[Erin Gore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and devoured it in two days. An Ocean of Stars by Imogen Martin is a beautifully written historical fiction novel with so much emotional depth and tension.

From the very beginning, the dynamic between Phoebe and Douglas completely pulled me in. Their tension starts strong and carries throughout the entire story, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way. Their relationship feels layered, complex, and genuinely earned.

Phoebe is such a compelling character—driven, resilient, and shaped by both her ambition and her past. Watching her navigate her work, her identity, and her connection with Douglas added so much depth to the story.

I also loved how the book explores themes of trauma, healing, and vulnerability. The movement between Boston and Scotland added richness to the setting and made the story feel even more immersive.

Overall, this was a powerful, emotional read that I couldn’t put down. I’d highly recommend it if you enjoy historical fiction with strong character development and a relationship you can truly invest in.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy.

[Aga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Storm Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC, coming March 2nd.

An Ocean of Stars is an emotional and beautifully layered historical novel set in 1879 Boston.

Phoebe Van Bergen is determined to defy societal expectations and build a Women’s Hospital — a bold, controversial ambition in her time. She is strong-willed, principled, and unwilling to shrink herself to make others comfortable.

Dr. Douglas McLennan arrives from Scotland carrying the weight of his past, hoping distance will quiet his guilt. Instead, he finds himself clashing with Phoebe — and yet he may be the only man capable of helping her achieve her vision.

Their personalities collide at first, but what unfolds is a powerful story of survival, grief, redemption, and challenging rigid societal norms. The emotional depth feels earned rather than forced, and the historical setting is richly drawn without overwhelming the characters.

This is a story about fighting for change when the world tells you to stay quiet — and about finding connection when you least expect it.

A must-read for fans of emotional historical fiction with strong female leads.

[Di · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my third book by this author. While I enjoyed it, I did not find it quite as compelling as the first two.

The main character is Phoebe, a Boston heiress who is determined to start a hospital focusing on medical care for women. Since the setting is the late 1800s, this is very forward thinking. She had a few serious obstacles to overcome, but Phoebe is a strong and determined woman. She does show vulnerability in her personal relationships.

Phoebe has a love interest, Douglas McLennan, a doctor from Scotland. It starts out with the hate to love trope with much misunderstanding in communication.

There is more emphasis on the love aspect in this story, which disappointed me. I was hoping tihat it would be more about the challenges for Phoebe building a hospital dedicated to women's health.

But, still an entertaining book to read. Interesting side characters, a bit of drama. The difference in social etiquette rules between now and then always fascinates me.

3.5 stars, rounded up to 4

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.

[Jan Baynham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Another stunning novel from the pen of Imogen Martin. As soon as I saw the beautiful, atmospheric cover and read the intriguing blurb, I knew I was in for a reading treat. 'An Ocean of Stars' unquestionably has it all! The compelling story is meticulously researched and hooked me from the start. One of the novel's strengths is its layered characterisation. The characters, including the secondary ones, are very real and come alive on the page. I got to really know these people. Phoebe is a strong, young woman living at a time when women were suppressed and I loved the way she grows in stature in a man's world over the course of the novel. There is also such a strong sense of time and place. The locations of Boston and Scotland are so clearly depicted that I felt I was there experiencing every moment with Phoebe and Douglas on both sides of the Atlantic. Added to all this is a beautiful, albeit unlikely, romance. The way the relationship between the couple developed is lovely. 'An Ocean of Stars' is storytelling at its best - I loved it!