A powerful and inspiring historical novel about one woman’s determination to become a surgeon during the American Civil War.
 
Mary Sutter, a brilliant young midwife from Albany, dreams of becoming a doctor—a goal few women dared to pursue in the mid-19th century. When the Civil War breaks out, Mary sees an opportunity to prove herself and serve her country. Battling prejudice, loss, and unimaginable suffering, she fights her way to the frontlines—where courage, compassion, and conviction will redefine her destiny.
 
My Name Is Mary Sutter by Robin Oliveira is a vivid and emotionally charged portrait of ambition and perseverance in a time of war. Driven by her desire to learn the art of surgery, Mary leaves home to volunteer at makeshift hospitals in Washington, D.C. and the war’s brutal battlefields.
As Mary navigates the horrors of wartime medicine, she encounters love, heartbreak, and the moral complexity of saving lives amid chaos. Oliveira’s meticulous historical detail brings the Civil War era to life—from the blood-soaked hospitals to the political turmoil surrounding President Lincoln.
 
With exquisite prose and unforgettable characters, My Name Is Mary Sutter explores what it means to be a healer in a world torn apart by violence. It’s a stirring testament to resilience, sacrifice, and the strength of women who refuse to be defined by their circumstances.
 
💖 Why You’ll Love It
A richly detailed Civil War novel centered on a remarkable female protagonist.
Blends historical accuracy with emotional depth and human drama.
Celebrates courage, compassion, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Perfect for fans of The Nightingale and The Gilded Hour.
Award-winning debut praised for its historical authenticity and storytelling power.
 
🌟 Perfect For
Readers of historical and women’s fiction.
Fans of Cold Mountain and The Invention of Wings.
Book clubs seeking stories of strength and perseverance.
Anyone interested in Civil War history and early women in medicine.
 
❤️ Fans Also Liked
If you enjoyed My Name Is Mary Sutter, you might also like:
The Gilded Hour by Sara Donati — women doctors in 19th-century New York.
America’s First Daughter by Stephanie Dray — strong women in early American history.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah — female heroism and compassion in wartime.