A Vanished Hand

"A Vanished Hand" by Sarah Doudney is a compelling story set in the late 1800s that centers on Elsie Kilner as she copes with grief and seeks purpose in her life. After stumbling upon a lost manuscript by a woman named Meta, who seemingly faced extreme hardship involving her son Jamie, Elsie is compelled to find the missing boy and offer him care. This mission tests her understanding of love and the bonds of family. The novel begins with Elsie contemplating the losses she has experienced, including her family home, due to her brother and his wife. While dealing with feelings of sadness and anger, she becomes fascinated by Meta's manuscript, moved by her desire for her son, Jamie, to be treated with kindness, despite Meta's personal battles. Feeling deeply connected to Meta's story, Elsie is driven to find Jamie and provide the care that Meta was unable to give. This sets the stage for a story filled with emotion, exploring themes of loss, the desire to belong, and how compassion can change a person.