The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner: A Book Review
Genre: Historical Fiction; Mystery
While I am typically not fond of historical fiction, Bookstagram sold me hard on Penner’s The Lost Apothecary and I am actually really glad it did. Perhaps it was because there seemed to be a mystery involved and I wanted to find out what happened or maybe it was because the future mixing with the past, but I really enjoyed reading this story.
Following the story of two women back in the 1700s and their untimely dance with fate and law, Penner also focuses in on a women in modern time who stumbles upon their journey while in the mist of her own turmoil. While similar in events, the modern time woman’s story does not run parallel to the one of the past. Instead Penner gives the modern time woman her own story (although I couldn’t help but feel a modern day apothecary would solve much of her problems). Perhaps that was what I liked most about the story, Penner allowed us (the readers) the ability to discover the story of the past through the modern woman’s research.
I can’t go much further into the story without giving spoilers. All I am willing to say is that James 1. got off easy 2. needs punched in the face – hard 3. is a complete and total douchebag.
Also, Caroline, while finding herself again, helped me remember me. I really like herbalism (I think it is really neat), but I’ve kind of let it drop away although I really don’t remember why. Reading The Lost Apothecary really reminded me of my interest in it though – enough that I actually got an educational book on how to make your own apothecary at home. (To be honest, was that really a good reason to buy a book? no. Did I need the book? no. Am I using it as an excuse? maybe. Am I excited? YES!)
Who would most enjoy the work and who should stay clear (if necessary):
Aspiring historians and people who have fun researching random things would definitely enjoy this work.
Other books like the one reviewed:
Topics of Conversation by Miranda Popkey
| Plot: | 10 / 10 |
| Characters: | 12 / 10 |
| Writing: | 10 / 10 |
| Editor: | 10 / 10 |
| Total | 42 / 40 |
Title: The Lost Apothecary: A Novel
Author: Sarah Penner
Edition: First Time Trade
Published: 2022 (this edition) [originally published in 2021]
Publisher: Park Row
ISBN: 9780778311973
If you want to get it: Amazon; Barnes&Noble
Rosey Reviews 