Penner, S: The Lost Apothecary

Whatever you may find along the river Themes, there’s always a secret hiding within. London, 18th century. An unusual apothecary with a rather special clientele. There is more to it than just keeping women healthy. Nella is known throughout the city, for her well-hidden poisons especially brewed for every client’s wish. Nella only has one rule, the poison must never be used to harm another woman. London in present-day, Caroline Parcewell intended to spend her tenth wedding anniversary in England’s Capital, but now she’s all alone. Troubled by her own problems she comes across a long-forgotten item, something that is connected to a crime in the past As soon as Caroline was hooked by the historical gems hidden behind that secret door, I was too. Although I’m not a historian, I can’t confirm if all the background information is correct. But to me, it sounded very trustworthy and informative. I didn’t find the time-changing chapters confusing, it keeps you interested on a high level. A chapter ends where it’s most gripping naturally, you have to, no rather want to keep reading. I don’t agree with other reviews I had read, I see the lost apothecary as a successful debut novel. It is worth it to give it a try. In the end, it all lays in front of you like a blanket; piece by piece Caroline unearths the secrets long lost. During this adventure, Caroline also finds more to herself and what her desires are. I hope this is not the first and last novel from Sarah Penner and that we will see more of her work in the future.