Another reading slump has been defeated! After spending way too much time online last month trying to figure out what to read next during a wicked slump, I decided to check out my very long TBR list early this morning. The stunning cover of The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner caught my eye, so I dived in, feeling cautiously optimistic.
About the Book
The Lost Apothecary is a historical fiction novel set in two distinct timelines in London. In 1791, Nella sells remedies and poisons out of her secret apothecary to women who want to heal their ailments – or kill their unwanted husbands. When she receives a request from Eliza Fanning for a poison meant for her mistress’ husband, she is immediately intrigued by the 12-year-old girl who shows up in her apothecary to collect the order. As an unlikely bond starts to form between the two, Nella’s carefully maintained secrecy is threatened, leading to a chain of events that could expose her dark practices.
Meanwhile, in present-day London, Caroline Parcewell is celebrating her tenth anniversary alone after discovering her husband’s infidelity with a woman at work. When she finds a mysterious vial in the mud on the banks of the Thames, she sets out on a journey that uncovers the history of the now-lost apothecary – and the secrets that connect her to its operator.
What I Liked
The standout of The Lost Apothecary was the 1791 storyline. The relationship between Nella and Eliza brought some warmth to the story that felt somewhat absent from the present-day timeline. Despite the fundamental differences in their ages and backgrounds, the pair learns to rely on each other in the face of their struggles against a patriarchal society in which men do and take what they want. Nella, in particular, needs Eliza’s companionship more than she dares to admit, and the moments she allows herself to accept and reciprocate this offering are beautiful. I didn’t even remember I was rooting for two murderers until I closed the book!
Additionally, Penner does an excellent job crafting the parallel journeys of her main characters in both storylines. While they each confront a different set of challenges, Nella, Eliza, and Caroline are in search of some respite from the oppression meted out by the men in their lives. Here was a reminder that despite the passage of centuries, women must continue to hold on to their sacred autonomy and exercise their agency as the fight against inequality continues.
Finally, I liked Caroline. Although some of my fellow readers may disagree, Caroline was the most realistic part of The Lost Apothecary. She’s a woman who put aside her goals and dreams for a man. How many of our mothers, aunts, sisters, and friends have done the same? How many of us have sacrificed ourselves at the altar of marriage and children? It’s been happening, it is happening, and it will continue to happen.
What I Questioned
There were a couple of parts of this book that required too much suspension of disbelief for my liking.
SPOILER ALERT!
First, Caroline’s husband attempts his special version of a “grand gesture” to win her back after crashing her solo trip. This “gesture” felt like such an escalation of his previously described behaviours that I did not buy it. This is not a dismissal of manipulative self-harm, but at no point in the novel is there any indication of a pattern of threatening behaviour until it actually occurs. So, it feels like it comes out of nowhere.
Second, at the end of the novel, Caroline decides to apply to graduate school in London. On the one hand, this is a great move! She’s finally pursuing her dreams. Amazing. On the other hand, she seemingly applies to Cambridge and receives an acceptance letter overnight. As a recent graduate from a UK-based grad programme, I know that the turnaround time between application submission and decision announcement can be quick. But overnight? No ma’am. Absolutely not.
Final Thoughts
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner is a strong debut novel. It may not end up on my favourite reads of the year, but if you’re looking for a quick and enjoyable read, this one may be for you.
Happy reading!
