It starts off slow and kind of dense, but once the action begins, it's hard to resist the story as it drives forward. It reads as a true epic, one that makes you feel the world really has been reshaped as you read it. Would recommend.

I couldn't put this one down. I liked the past and present perspectives and the whole time just looking forward how they would blend together. The stories of those women need to be told, they would be lost in time otherwise.

So historical fiction is not my jam. But you know what is? Witchy feminist magic awesomeness.

I’ve had The Lost Apothecary on my radar for awhile. I didn’t know much more than the blurb, but that was enough for me. “”A secret network of women. A legacy of poison and revenge.” Ah, YES PLEASE. And let me tell you, this book definitely lived up to the blurb.

The story is told in three parts, three points of view. Two stories, Nella and Eliza, are concurrent, one old woman, one young, living in the late 1700's. The third, Caroline, is present day. Each woman is dealing with an extraordinary challenge, but otherwise lives a somewhat "average" life. In fact, one of my favorite elements of this book is how the story - the inspection and sharing of the lives of everyday women -  reflects Caroline's goals/dreams - to study (and ultimately celebrate as important) the everyday lives of people in the past (that’s not a spoiler, promise!). I also love how the characters are strong, dynamic women but within the boundaries of everyday experiences. They weren’t wielding swords but they were fighting all the same. It really celebrates how all women are worthy of remembering, even those of us who are ordinary. This is reflected in an important detail in Nella's story, but that *is* a bit spoilery, so just - be on the lookout for it.

As for the writing itself - just beautiful. As I said, historical fiction is not my go to genre because I feel like the language and setting descriptions can get ... a little out of control. Not this book - the writing is lyrical, but it's not over the top. You feel pulled along by the pace, but you don't feel overwhelmed by the scenes. It reads quickly like a mystery, but doesn't feel rushed in the important parts. And the storylines were clever - they fit together well, not just with details (a thread from Nella/Eliza picked up by Caroline) but with the characters similar feelings/reactions to experiences. I'm also always a fan of books that celebrate women's relationships with other women that don't revolve around men or finding a romantic love interest.

Plus poison! And a twist at the end. Does it get better?

Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.

Book: The Lost Apothecary

Author: Sarah Penner

Book Series: Standalone

Rating: 4/5

Recommended For...: Historical fiction fans, assassin books, revenge books, murder mysteries

Publication Date: March 2, 2021

Publisher: Park Row

Pages: 320

Recommended Age: 16+ (Poison, Abuse, Feminism, Gore, Violence)

Synopsis: Rule #1: The poison must never be used to harm another woman.

Rule #2: The names of the murderer and her victim must be recorded in the apothecary’s register.

One cold February evening in 1791, at the back of a dark London alley in a hidden apothecary shop, Nella awaits her newest customer. Once a respected healer, Nella now uses her knowledge for a darker purpose—selling well-disguised poisons to desperate women who would kill to be free of the men in their lives. But when her new patron turns out to be a precocious twelve-year-old named Eliza Fanning, an unexpected friendship sets in motion a string of events that jeopardizes Nella’s world and threatens to expose the many women whose names are written in her register.

In present-day London, aspiring historian Caroline Parcewell spends her tenth wedding anniversary alone, reeling from the discovery of her husband’s infidelity. When she finds an old apothecary vial near the river Thames, she can’t resist investigating, only to realize she’s found a link to the unsolved “apothecary murders” that haunted London over two centuries ago. As she deepens her search, Caroline’s life collides with Nella’s and Eliza’s in a stunning twist of fate—and not everyone will survive.

Review: This book was surprisingly pretty good. I didn't think that I would like it as much as I did going into it but I did. I thought the book was well plotted out and I was intrigued throughout the reading of it. I really liked the world building and I also thought that the book was pretty surprising especially with the plot twist towards the end.

However, I did think that the characters were a little flat for me. There was nothing that really distinguished them from each other in my mind. I also thought that the book was way too slow especially in the beginning. The book took forever to get into and I feel like that that would be a hindrance to most readers.

Verdict: It was good!

"The Lost Apothecary" is a thoroughly entertaining and enthralling book; so much so, I finished it in one sitting!

Alternating between the present day and the 18th century, "The Lost Apothecary" intertwines the stories of three women. In the 18th century we focus on Nella and Eliza. The former running an apothecary shop where she not only provides salves and tinctures for the women of London's maladies, but also poisons to get rid of their betraying husbands and masters. Twelve year old Eliza comes to the apothecary at the behest of her mistress, and sets in motion the alarming events that could lead to the apothecary's demise.

In the present day we find Caroline, spending her tenth wedding anniversary in London by herself after finding out her husband has had an affair. On a "treasure" salvaging tour of the riverbed of the Thames, Caroline finds a vial with a mysterious engraving. A history buff by nature, Caroline delves into researching the vial's origin, sending her on a journey to not only discover the identity of the "lost apothecary" but also, herself.

I found this story to be fresh, original, and extremely well written. Author Sarah Penner did an excellent job alternating between three POVs and two different time periods, all the while making the action flow seamlessly together. Each character has a very distinct voice. Although they lived in different time periods, were different ages, and came from different backgrounds, I loved that these women all had things in common. They all were trying to figure out their place in this world not only as a woman, but as a person trying to follow their own beliefs and dreams. I also found their commonalities in dealing with the emotional and physical demands of motherhood, childbearing and womanhood, to be extremely compelling.

SPOILER ALERT!! Sorry, but ye' been warned!

My one problem with this book was the storyline with Caroline being suspected of poisoning her husband and being interrogated by the police. I understand wanting to throw in some drama in the present day timeline, and present that thought that perhaps if they lived in the same time, Caroline would've sought out the apothecary's help when she found out her husband had an affair. But, it was a situation where had she just told the police the truth, then there wouldn't have been an misunderstanding. I didn't understand why she was keeping secret that she had broken into the 3 Back Alley shop, especially since it could've taken away any suspicions the police had. My reading experience until then had been pleasant and fun, and that felt unnecessary and frustrating. I was glad it wasn't something that was dragged out, although I could've done without it completely.

This is an excellent debut from Penner, and I will for sure be recommending it to my fellow readers and looking out for what she does next! Thanks to Net Galley and Harlequin for giving me an advanced copy!

I loved the vibes of this book. The poison, the focus on women, and the theme of finding one's inner strength to overcome. I thought that this exploration of history particularly women's history in London. Enjoyable read that was quick and a fascinating examination of Victorian era London.

As is the case almost 100% of the time when I read "dual timeline" historical novels, the historical part of the story was easily twice as compelling as the present-day one. I think the author should have dropped the Caroline half of the novel entirely and just focused on diving deeper into Nella and Eliza's story.

I found the ending to be confusing and kind of a cop-out. At first, I thought "Wow, the author actually killed off Eliza... that was ballsy." But then of course by the end of the novel it turned out that she wasn't actually dead and they all lived happily ever after, I guess? I'm not sure if we're supposed to believe if Eliza's elixir actually was magical or if she just go really, really lucky in surviving, or etc. In any case, the tonal shift seemed to cheapen the narrative, in my opinion.

One other quibble regards historical accuracy -- a "lady's maid" was a skilled position that would have required considerable knowledge and experience. [This becomes a minor plot point when the Lady (whose name escapes me now) offers Eliza that position in her household after the resignation of her lady's maid. Unless I am badly mistaken it is virtually inconceivable that the position would be offered to a child, much less a child of unproven skill or background.

Overall, a mixed bag -- nice atmosphere, but the present-day story is dull and forgettable. And a final aside, as a librarian, I have to say that I think Gaynor really needs to work on establishing better professional boundaries.

The Last Apothecary was a stunning historical mystery that contrasted 1791 London with the current day. Thank you to Sarah Penner and Park Row books for this ARC that comes out on March 2. I was instantly drawn in by the cover and knew this book would be a delight.

This was one of those books that sucked me in from the start and I finished it in two days. Coincidentally, I ended up reading it on the days in February when the main events of the 1791 timeline took place, which was fun.

Like Caroline, I love diving deep into the rabbit hole when it comes to historical research. I enjoyed both timelines (which were exciting in different ways), and appreciated the fact that if these characters had overlapped, Caroline very well may have been one of Nella's clients looking for a way out of her unsatisfactory marriage. The endings for both were a bit happily-ever-after, but I was glad to see Caroline take a stand and decide to do what makes her happy instead of what feels "safe" and familiar (seriously though, who's research falls into place that easily?). The thing that bugged me the most about Caroline's ending was how she threw the apothecary vial back into the river. I know that it was supposed to be "symbolic," but if that was the launching point for your entire Master's thesis research, don't you think that's an important item to keep? Or at least professionally photograph to be included in a potential archive or exhibit?

Overall I really enjoyed this book and will definitely recommend it to patrons and friends. I'm excited to see what stories Sarah Penner comes up with after this great debut!

Thank you to Netgalley, Harlequin/Park Row Books, and Sarah Penner for proving an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Caroline has fled to London alone to reevaluate her life after finding out just days before that her husband has been cheating on her. During a tourist adventure she accidentally stumbles upon, she discovers an artifact that rekindles her passion for history and draws her into the mystery of an apothecary who lived in the same area over a century earlier. Nella's shop is different from other apothecaries - it is just for women. Not only that, if you are a woman who has been wronged or betrayed by a man, Nella can help you get rid of that problem with a seemingly natural death.

In The Lost Apothecary, Caroline's and Nella's stories are intertwined with that of a young girl, Eliza, who briefly becomes part of Nella's life. All of the women have been betrayed by men, and uncovering Nella's story helps Caroline process her own feelings. This is a fun combination of modern and historical fiction with some elements of mystery and lots of girl power. I wasn't entirely satisfied with the ending, but still enjoyed the book overall, and it was a quick read.

The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner.
Overall I really liked this book. It was very well written and had a tangible atmosphere. I sympathized with both the current and past timeline. I did feel like it left me wanting a little in-depth. I would have liked to sympathize with the woman’s struggles who wanted to kill their spouses. I think there were 2-3 very short descriptions of some women’s situations. But it mainly felt like a lady left a note saying I’d like to kill my husband at breakfast next Thursday. Then Nella would mix up poison and hand it over. It just felt like a missed opportunity to really engage the reader emotionally and add depth to the story.
As for Caroline, She was much more patient with that husband of hers than I would have been. LOL What a manipulator! I found that this was one of those books I couldn’t read before bed because I’d be up all night thinking about what was going on and where the story was leading. And I mean that as praise. I did want to bop Caroline over the head at the ends when she pulled a Rose from Titanic. (You’ll get it when you read it. *Wink*)
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Really fun read! I loved the world building the most. I felt the characters could use a tab but more development to compel readers more, but overall really great. The story has such a full backdrop I can see where it could surpass any kissing character traits. I’d personally like to see more development

Two timelines. Two different centuries. Women impacted by deceit.

In 1791, we meet Nella. She is a woman in her forties. She owns an apothecary just like her mother did before her. The difference is that while her mother used it for healing purposes, Nella after a terrible event in her life has decided to use it for murder. Nella supplies poisons to women who want to eliminate a man in their lives. It can be a brother, a father, a husband. Nella's only rules are not to harm women and to keep a log with the names of the women who requested her help.

Eliza Fanning is a twelve-year-old who has been sent to work as an employee for her mistress, Mrs. Amwell. Just like so many other women, Mrs. Amwell is in need on Nella's help and this serves as a conduit for Eliza to meet Nella. Eliza is immediately taken with Nella and her shop. She wants to learn more about the poison and wants to help her around the store.

In the present, we meet Caroline Parcewell who is in London celebrating her ten-year marriage anniversary alone. Just before her planned trip with her husband, she learns about his infidelity. She needs time to process what she has learned and to take some decisions about where she wants her life to go.

A finding during a mudlarking event will make Caroline go digging with the help of Gaynor, a librarian at the British Library, about the apothecary and the murders which occurred in the 18th century.

An original debut by Sarah Penner. It was a slow burn that had good characterization and ambiance.

I had some issues with the part of the story that involved Caroline. At some point, she is in trouble but the resolution felt rushed and simplified.

Cliffhanger: No

3.5/5 Fangs

A complimentary copy was provided by HARLEQUIN/ Park Row via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Wow! What a wonderful first book for this debut author! The book captured my interest in the first chapter and kept me guessing throughout. I thought I had the story line figured out early, but the author kept throwing unexpected twists into the story which kept me wondering the outcome until the end of the last chapter.

The book explores the stories of two strong women separated by 200 years. The first timeline follows the story of Nella, a second-generation apothecary, living in the late 1700’s, who provides poison tinctures to women for use in killing the men who have hurt them. .The second time line tells Caroline’s story in the present, Caroline happens upon an embellished vial while visiting London on a tenth anniversary trip after learning her husband was having an affair. Both story lines were fabulously well-written and meshed well together.

I cannot wait to see what is next for this upcoming author! Five stars from me for this fantastic read! Thank you to NetGalley and Park Row Books for the advanced copy.

#thelostapothecary
#sarahpenner
#parkrowbooks
#netgalley

I adored this! It was an intriguing story of dueling timelines of 18th century London and present day. The characters, Nella, Eliza and Caroline were all strong-willed women, but Nella and Eliza’s stories were especially fascinating to me. I loved reading about the apothecary, the history, the poisons, and the development of the friendship between Nella and Eliza. There also was an element of mystery to as what really happened. Caroline’s storyline was about self-discovery and finding what makes her happy. I didn't mind Caroline's story, but I was truly invested in reading about Nella and Eliza. All in all, I loved this book - the twists and the ending wrapped everything up beautifully.

A huge thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin - Trade Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Written in dual timelines, we first have the current protagonist, Caroline, on a solo 10th anniversary celebratory vacation in London. She has left her husband because of a text she read which leads her to conclude he has been unfaithful. Oh my! What a modern woman! For the entire book she whines and carries on about her loss of not being able to do what she wanted to do (pursue further studies in history and have a baby) because he was moving up the ladder in his own profession in order to provide them both with more opportunities. She is totally self centered and self seeking and very demanding.

In contrast the historical women are much kinder and more attuned to real life. We have a peasant, 12 year old Eliza, who is willing to do anything for the slightest opportunity to learn. We have her mother who pushed her out of the nest so that she could have opportunities. We have her first employer who taught her to read and write. And we have her friendship with Nella, the apothecary, who taught her about potions.

I really enjoyed the historical portion of the book. And I guess I also enjoyed the modern day portions: just learning about the tools now available to researchers was a real treat.

The mystery of the serial killer from 1791 was interesting as well as the manner in which ingredients for potions were prepared. It was well written and most enjoyable. I appreciate receiving this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher, Harlequin Trade, in exchange for an honest review.

What a stunning novel that easily weaves together both the past and the present timelines through a remarkable story of three women, drawn together by tragedy brought on by the men in their lives. The characters are incredibly compelling and I really liked all of them - Nella, Eliza and Caroline. Each had her own personality and style, which made them quite a unique trio to be drawn together by the shop.

I was really turning pages quickly to see how everything worked out once the central conflict was revealed. I couldn’t wait to see how everything was resolved. Things moved really fast and I was so engaged at that point. (I’m trying not to give anything away) I thought things were going to go one way, but then there are a couple of twists that go another way, then more twists and bam! It just really all worked out perfectly in the end anyway which is a testament to the quality of the writing.

This is the type of novel you have to read until the very end you can’t sleep on anything!

This is Sarah Penner’s first novel, but it definitely won’t be the last I read from her. Look out for her name - I have a feeling she’ll be on the bestseller list for quite awhile!

The Lost Apothecary is historical fiction told in two time-lines. In 18th century London there was a hidden apothecary shop, administered by an mysterious woman named Nella, where women could purchase poisons to use against the oppressive men in their lives, whether it be a husband, son, brother, or father.

Now, in present day, Caroline goes mud larking (which sounds like great fun!) along the Thames, where she finds a small blue vial. With her curiosity piqued, she is determined to find out more about the little bottle and the mysterious engraving on it. Little does she know that she’s about to embark on an unexpected adventure.

The Lost Apothecary is Sarah Penner’s debut novel. And what a fabulous debut it is! It is an excellent book that is told from several points of view. The characters are interesting and appealing and the transitions between the timelines are nearly flawless. This is a well-paced story of mystery, friendship, and personal discovery. I found the whole premise, as well as the characters and the setting, to be very compelling, interesting, and it was truly hard to put down. I am already looking forward to Sarah Penner’s next book.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book for review.

The Lost Apothecary is a stunning debut novel that will capture your attention and your heart.

It is a dual story line. Nella the apothecary tells her story in the 1790's as a woman betrayed she uses her art to help other women that have also been betrayed. The catch is she dispenses potions that are deadly. Eliza is also present in Nella's story.

In the time line in present day England is told by Caroline who having found an bottle while mud raking is determined to find the story behind the vial.

All three women are strong, likeable characters that you can't help but cheer for, cry for and cross your fingers for.

The Last Apothecary would be an awesome Book Club book and I can't wait to get my own hard copy.

I did not want this book to end and I will think of Nella, Eliza and Caroline often in the days to come.

Thanks to NetGalley, Harelquin Trade Publishing (US & Canada) - Park Row for an excellent read. I cant recommend this book enough .

I absolutely love this book! such a different story idea! It took me a few chapters to get used to switching between the past and present story line, but once i got passed that It all flowed together so well!! I loved how the the characters really came into themselves, and learned about themselves throughout the novel. I love that it is such a woman positive - I can do it - story line. Much more exciting then the usual woman needs man story that in flooding the market currently! Most of the characters are very likable, and from their descriptions and story lines they felt more like friends then just fictional characters I was reading about which is nice because i find I have a hard time connecting with characters sometimes. This novel made me laugh and cry, I could not put it down honestly i stayed up until 4am even thought i had to work in the morning , I tried to go to bed and couldn't stop thinking about The Lost Apothecary I had to get up and a finish it I had to know what happened and how it ended, although when it did end i was so sad i wanted more! I think Sarah is definitely an Author to watch and I cannot wait until she comes out with a new Novel so i can dive into that as well! Thank you for the opportunity to review!