The Invincible Miss Cust

A Novel

By: Penny Haw

Narrated by: Lucy Rayner

Must-hear historical fiction for fans of Marie Benedict and Tracey Enerson Wood, based on the real life of Britain’s first woman veterinary surgeon.

Aleen Cust has big dreams. And no one―not her family, society, or the law―will stop her.

Born in Ireland in 1868 to an aristocratic English family, Aleen knows she is destined to work with animals, even if her family is appalled by the idea of a woman pursuing a veterinary career. Going against their wishes but with the encouragement of the guardian assigned to her upon her father’s death, Aleen attends the New Veterinary College in Edinburgh, enrolling as A. I. Custance to spare her family the humiliation they fear. At last, she is on her way to becoming a veterinary surgeon! Little does she know her biggest obstacles lie ahead.

The Invincible Miss Cust is based on the real life of Aleen Isabel Cust, who defied her family and society to become Britain and Ireland’s first woman veterinary surgeon. Through Penny Haw’s meticulous research, riveting storytelling, and elegant prose, Aleen’s story of ambition, determination, family, friendship, and passion comes to life. It is a story that, even today, women will recognize, of battling patriarchy and an unequal society to realize one’s dreams and pave the way for other women in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

©2022 Penny Haw (P)2022 Blackstone Publishing

Unassuming

Unexpectedly a very good story. Not necessarily a book I would have chosen based on the title or cover. I have never thought about the first woman to become a vet, it was definitely a story that needed to be told. A recommendation from a friend, and I am so glad i listened to her.

Great Story

I love historical fiction and this story of a female Veterinarian at the turn of the 20th Century is one of the best. The narration was perfect. I grew to admire and have great affection for the title character. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves animals and who enjoys historical fiction .

A totally enjoyable read!

While part of this remarkable story of the first certified woman vet in England is, of necessity, fabricated by the author, the historical framework and known facts make it totally plausible. It is a perfect example of historical fiction well done. The trials and ordeals faced by a women who wanted to persue a line of work not deemed “suitable for women’s work” are many. As if that weren’t enough, unrelenting rejection by her own family made it even more painful. Yet the story is one of perseverance and at least partial satisfaction. What a great story despite the bitter mixed with the sweet. I highly recommend this book to everyone, whether you are an animal fancier or not. First rate story read by a lovely narrator!

Good book

It was very interesting. It showed great perseverance to move forward with her dreams with all she knew she would loose in doing so.

Women's Herstory

Enjoyed the book very much and recommend to anyone interested in historical fiction, victorian attitudes, dysfunctional families in past and Present, love of animals, and never giving up.