The Lost Apothecary: A Novel
Named Most Anticipated of 2021 by Newsweek, Good Housekeeping, Hello! magazine, Oprah.com, Bustle, Popsugar, Betches, Sweet July, and GoodReads!
March 2021 Indie Next Pick and #1 LibraryReads Pick
“A bold, edgy, accomplished debut!” —Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Alice Network
A forgotten history. A secret network of women. A legacy of poison and revenge. Welcome to The Lost Apothecary…
Hidden in the depths of eighteenth-century London, a secret apothecary shop caters to an unusual kind of clientele. Women across the city whisper of a mysterious figure named Nella who sells well-disguised poisons to use against the oppressive men in their lives. But the apothecary’s fate is jeopardized when her newest patron, a precocious twelve-year-old, makes a fatal mistake, sparking a string of consequences that echo through the centuries.
Meanwhile in present-day London, aspiring historian Caroline Parcewell spends her tenth wedding anniversary alone, running from her own demons. When she stumbles upon a clue to the unsolved apothecary murders that haunted London two hundred years ago, her life collides with the apothecary’s in a stunning twist of fate—and not everyone will survive.
With crackling suspense, unforgettable characters and searing insight, The Lost Apothecary is a subversive and intoxicating debut novel of secrets, vengeance and the remarkable ways women can save each other despite the barrier of time.
Journey through the captivating pages of "The Lost Apothecary: A Novel" by Sarah Penner, a tale that blends mystery, historical fiction, and the allure of forbidden love. Set in 18th century London, this enchanting story follows Nella, a young healer who runs a secret apothecary, catering to women in need of unconventional remedies. When her world collides with that of Eliza, a desperate woman seeking a way out of her oppressive marriage, their lives become intertwined in a dangerous game of secrets and desire.
As Nella's potions and Eliza's yearning intertwine, their paths lead them to uncover a dark secret that has haunted London for centuries. The Lost Apothecary becomes a refuge for women seeking solace and empowerment in a world that often confines them. With each chapter, the boundaries of time blur as the stories of Nella and Eliza unfold, revealing the enduring strength of women and the transformative power of love.
Penner's vivid prose transports readers to the bustling streets and hidden corners of 18th century London, immersing them in a world where superstition and science collide. The characters are richly drawn and relatable, their struggles and triumphs resonating with readers across time. "The Lost Apothecary" is a captivating blend of historical intrigue, forbidden romance, and the timeless pursuit of freedom and self-discovery.
Within the pages of this captivating novel, readers will find a testament to the resilience of women in the face of adversity. Nella's unwavering determination to help those in need and Eliza's courageous pursuit of happiness serve as beacons of hope in a world often dominated by men. The Lost Apothecary is a thought-provoking and empowering story that celebrates the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
Rating:
