The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner 320 Pages
I am so glad (Y-A-W-N) that I didn’t start this spellbinding novel (Y-A-W-N) on a work night; I could not turn the pages fast enough. Author Penner uses dueling timelines and three heroines in the novel of poisons, potions, revenge, intrigue, betrayal and discovery.
The first timeline is London, February 3-11, 1791. Nella continues her mother’s work in a hidden back alley apothecary shop. Her business is strictly word of mouth; the shop is hidden for one reason… to help women get rid of the men in their lives who have abused and/or betrayed them. As the novel opens, Nella is awaiting a new customer, the second heroine, Eliza to arrive. Eliza is on a mission of mercy from her employer. Eliza is captivated by Nella’s work and becomes her unwanted assistance.
The second timeline is London, present day. Caroline Parcewell has arrived in the city on her 10th anniversary trip, sans husband James. She is devastated by James’s infidelity and must decide what course her marriage will now take. The worst part is that Caroline and James had decided to try for a baby a few months earlier. Unwilling maintain the itinerary she had planned with James, she stumbles upon a group of mudlarkers about to embark on a new adventure. This group scours the muddy bank of the Thames, looking for items from long ago. A waylaid historian, Caroline joins the group and discovers a light blue vial with a single logo---that of a bear on all fours. The historian in Caroline’s heart bubbles to the surface and sends her on a journey that will lead her to her true self.
I highly recommend The Lost Apothecary, which receives 6 out of 5 stars in Julie’s world.
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