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The Lost Apothecary

New York TImes Bestseller
3.76 goodreads logo

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( 471,856 ratings, 46,768 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner is a historical fiction novel weaving together the stories of an 18th-century apothecary who aids women in challenging patriarchal constraints, and a modern-day aspiring historian discovering her secrets. The book explores themes of empowerment, revenge, and the enduring connection between the past and present. This intriguing narrative is set against the atmospheric backdrop of London's darker alleys and draws readers into a mysterious and captivating world.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you love tales that weave mystery and intrigue into historical settings. Set against the backdrop of 18th-century London, it explores themes of revenge and empowerment through a hidden apothecary shop. The parallel stories of an aspiring historian in modern times and a trio of intriguing characters from the past are bound to captivate readers who appreciate rich storytelling and strong female characters.

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Penners debut had me completely under its spell. Riveting and utterly original. Fiona Davis, bestselling author of The Dollhouse

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

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 jeopardised 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 fateβ€”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.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner is praised for its intriguing blend of suspense, mystery, and historical fiction. Many reviewers commend the book’s dual timeline narrative, depicting both 18th-century London and the present day, and highlight its strong female characters and themes of empowerment. Some critics find the novel's imagery and atmosphere captivating, while others feel the modern storyline lacks depth compared to the historical one. Overall, it’s appreciated for its originality and engaging plot.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781922848550

Publisher: Affirm Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 29 November 2022

Country: Australia

Imprint: Affirm Press

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 314g

Pages: 352

About the Author

Sarah Penner is the debut author of The Lost Apothecary, with rights having been sold into 23 territories. She works full-time in finance and is a member of the Historical Novel Society and the Women's Fiction Writers Association. She and her husband live in St. Petersburg, Florida with their miniature dachshund, Zoe.

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