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A review by mhinnen
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
adventurous
informative
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
Mysterious dual timeline set in “current time” and in the late 1700’s London. Caroline is in London trying to sort out her life following her husband’s betrayal. Nella has inherited her mother’s craft of potions to help women but has taken it to a next level which requires her to conduct her work with extra secrecy. When the pre-teen Eliza steps into her life, their relationship becomes a mystery for Caroline to unravel.
The book kept a good pace with short chapters and different voices. There were times when the coincidences seemed too convoluted (or meaningless). Similarly, Caroline’s wonder and trepidation often felt out of proportion to the situation.
Overall I really enjoyed it - particularly the documentation of women who otherwise would have been forgotten. And the ending was satisfying.
I read this for a book group and look forward to discussing it.
The book kept a good pace with short chapters and different voices. There were times when the coincidences seemed too convoluted (or meaningless). Similarly, Caroline’s wonder and trepidation often felt out of proportion to the situation.
Overall I really enjoyed it - particularly the documentation of women who otherwise would have been forgotten. And the ending was satisfying.
I read this for a book group and look forward to discussing it.