The League of Lady Poisoners

A book about female poisoners throughout the years that explores their stories. It has a few pages at the front about poisonous plants and animals. I thought the plants section was helpful because most of the stories involved one of these (or the metals). The animals was not as relevant I thought but still a fun addition. Then the book splits up stories based on why the women were poisoning - professional, romantic, political, etc. I thought this was a good way to break it up instead of just chronological! The illustrations within are also very beautiful.

I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of The League of Lady Poisoners.

I was so excited my request was approved because I'm always eager to read anything related to female serial killers.

Hmm...that didn't come out right.

As I was saying, this was a well-researched and fascinating read about more than twenty-five accused women poisoners, exploring the circumstances and skill sets that led them to lives of crime.

Some of the women were familiar to me, having recently read a book about female serial killers, but others were not and I was glad to learn more.

I love the author's idea to organize the chapters based on the women's motives, and I did enjoy the poison primer about the origins uses, and deadly side effects used through history.

Another big plus: great illustrations!

This was just a fun interesting read. I was enthralled with everything about this book and I really want to see more as soon as possible.

The League of Lady Poisoners by Lisa Perrin is an illustrated book of true stories of dangerous women. I’m not sure what exactly drew me to this book; perhaps it was the title or the cover, whatever it was though, my curiosity was piqued. I did appreciate the background research and explanation that not all of the women were evil or cruel. Many were desperate and looking to escape impossible situations where they felt trapped.
The chapters are divided out by professional poisoners, escape and defiance, money and greed, power and politics, anger and revenge, and love and obsession. The author is careful to stipulate as these are not necessarily motives, as motives are complex and multi factorial.
The stories are told with a lot of detail and description (but you will not find recipes). Some of the stories were familiar, others I’ve never heard of. In both cases, as one who appreciates stories of true crime, I was enlightened. It is macabre as well as interesting. My curiosity was satiated and I learned quite a bit about these women.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

I think I can thank Bailey Sarian for getting me really into women killers, as she has a few that feature women and poisoning was one of the main themes among them. I can't remember where I first heard it, if it was in fiction or someone real, but the saying was "poison is the choice of women who kill."

So, basically I have always been a fan of reading about the topic. This was a really cool collection, even though I do wish the histories were longer. Maybe because I was really interested in the topic, I just craved more. Overall, I liked this a lot!

I loved this one. The layout is perfect. I loved the illustrations and the charts. I loved the stories and the chapter titles.
If I still had a bookclub this would be a pick for sure. I need to get a copy for my coffee table.
the illustrations are to die for. Did I mention that?

Thank you for the ARC!

I was only able to read through the first section of this, before some personal compulsion issues that I thought weren’t a problem anymore turned out to absolutely be a problem when reading a book about poison.

Thus, what follows is based largely on the introduction section, and on the assassins section, with the added bit of the bibliography which I also look through.


I found this to be by far the best researched and well cited example of its genre (illustrated vignette pop history). I noticed none of the glaring issues or repetition of apocryphal stories so very common on the form, especially considering the subject at hand.

I appreciated both the art and the writing style, and the level of detail is good for a coffee table type book.

I appreciate he frequents quotations sand use of primary sources as well.

This is a book I may or may not go and finish due to my own issues, but would be quite likely to recommend to anyone with a not especially serious interest in any of its covered subjects.

I received an e-ARC through net galley.


I am not putting this review up on my StoryGraph at this time, as I did not finish the book and feel it would be disingenuous.

I will however go and tell several friends about it, including a couple who are likely to be much more inclined to read the thing cover to cover than I was.

Amazon book! Reading like a true crime podcast with the perfect mix of humor and history. The book follows the story of female poisoners throughout history proving what’s myth and what’s fact while showing how patriarchal views shape their stories. I also loved how it starts out with a explanation for poison before going into to the stories. And the beautiful artwork tied it all together. First nonfiction book I’ve read in years and did not disappoint. Definitely recommend reading :)

Gorgeously illustrated and engagingly written, The Lease of Lady Poisoners is, in many respects, an extremely lovely and thorough annotated bibliography moreso than a novel, but I do not say that derogatorily. Greatly appreciated are Perrin's efforts to include a broad scope of women from different backgrounds and cultures; this book features both the notorious and the little-known (who are often more deserving of the notoriety given to their myth-shrouded but white and European counterparts).

Some of the poisoners discussed are a bit of a reach for their given category, some probably did not have quite enough information to merit their own section (though I am sympathetic to why this is occasionally the case), and it does take about twenty percent of the book to get to the actual titular lady poisoners, but it's a fine, fascinating historical sampler nonetheless.

Also not unnoticed is Perrin's empathy and acknowledgement of the difference in approach necessary in discussing the (allegedly) true crimes of the very-historic past and those from the past century, which do not feature heavily here. Those who are interested by, but feel put off or uncomfortable with the tone sometimes taken in our true crime obsessed culture towards killers whose devastating impact is still being felt today by grieving friends, relatives, and descendants will likely find this a refreshing and useful resource.

I recommend this to anyone intrigued by psychology, history, and the role of gender construct and performance in our perception of the human capacity for violence. An excellent compilation of sources with stunning visuals.

Thank you to Chronicle Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this! I enjoyed this lethal jaunt into the stories of women who were associated with poison. The illustrations add a whimsy and charm to the discussion of murder and women fighting abuse in many cases. I appreciated the context she gave historically and the wealth of information in a condensed format. I also love in works like these to have the specific sources cited so clearly. Well researched, well written, and well illustrated!

This might be dark to say but I had so much fun reading this. The author brings nuance and levity at just the right times to balance the darkness of the topic while also respecting the seriousness and horror of poisoning. I think many people have a lot of preconceived notions when it comes to women poisoners and this book dispels a lot of myths. It also gives the perspectives of many different kind of women who used poison from those who did it out of necessity to escape an abusive situation, to women who used it to raise their station and of course the famous “angel of mercy” killers. The author includes a diverse array of women from many different countries and backgrounds as well, which was super interesting. The book was informative in an easy to read way, and for people interested in reading more the source list is organized in a way that makes reading up on the people and topics that most interested the reader easy to find. The illustrations by the author were also really delightful and beautiful. I only wish there would have been even more to read because the topic was so interesting. I’m looking forward to more from this author in the future!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I really loved this book. Everything from the structure to the art to the content. It was a pretty quick read, and I appreciated how the women were addressed with understanding. The author made sure to put their crimes in context, and add information regarding social and societal structures that could have led to them poisoning others. For some it was escaping abusive situations, for others it was financial independence and freedom, and for others it was truly because of horrific reasons where they did not appear to have a conscience and did it for their own gain. The author also walked through what the poisons would do to individuals, to also center that there were victims in this as well that would have died horrific deaths. I thought overall the book was well rounded in how it presented the information, addressed its subjects, and in how it kept the reader engaged. The artwork was beautiful and I loved the themes the artist chose. I also learned a lot about historical women from all walks of life and while many women likely disappeared from the historical record, I thought the author did a great job at attempting to make sure women of all classes, cultures, and backgrounds were represented. Overall I really recommend.

Please be advised I received a free advance reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group for providing me with an ARC.

I was pretty excited when I saw this book because I have never read or seen anything similar.

I really enjoyed the illustrations that paired with each story and thought they added a nice touch.

Overall, the book was super interesting and very informative. I would definitely recommend reading this if you are a fan of true crime or history.

Illustrated true crime. The genre I didn’t know I needed until now.

I love this. It’s absolutely gorgeous to start. The cover, the illustrations - beautiful. The stories of our female poisoners in history is also fantastic. There are many that we’ve never heard of (or at least I hadn’t) and of course the famous ones we’ve all heard of (Aqua Tofana, anyone??). It’s informative and gorgeous. What more could someone want?

Huge thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy!

Enjoyable, great pacing, exciting settings kept me hooked. Fun novel that will be the perfect to lose yourself in. Thank you Net Galley for ARC in exchange for my honest opinion

This is a fantastic book. The way that Lisa Perrin showcases the different aspects of the poisons used and why each of “the league” did what she did is so fascinating and descriptive. Even as a true crime fan I was able to learn more about each lady. I will definitely recommend this book to others.

This one was a spectacular breath of fresh air, strangely enough. The educational yet joyful vibes of this authors writing kept drawing me further and further in. There’s nowhere to get bored in this. If you’re a fan of true crime but would love more featuring women and the horrors that have happened well within the past, this is for you!

I loved this book! It was thoroughly researched, well written, highly entertaining, and beautifully illustrated.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC that was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely loved reading this book. I was completely drawn into the topic and could not stop reading it.

So this is one I need to have in my library! It’s just so pretty! I enjoyed the eARC from NetGalley but absolutely must own a copy of this! Thank you!

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy.
I don’t normally read books similar to this, but I thought the cover was really pretty, so I decided to give this a chance. I was pleasantly surprised. The illustration style was beautiful. The book presented the history in an entertaining manner and it did not read like a textbook at all. The drawings of the plants was probably my favorite part of the book.

This book was so awesome!! I love true crime books and let's face it womens like poison as their murder choice normally. This book was so good and so well researched. I highly enjoyed this book and recommend this book to anyone who likes true crime.
I just reviewed The League of Lady Poisoners by Lisa Perrin. #TheLeagueofLadyPoisoners #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL]

"The League of Lady Poisoners" by Lisa Perrin is a unique work, effectively combining artful visuals with dark tales of infamous female poisoners throughout history. Perrin’s meticulous research shines through the narratives, providing an intriguing perspective on the lives and motives of these women, who hail from diverse backgrounds and time periods.

This book presents the grim artistry of crime in a captivating way, making it an engaging read for fans of true crime and historical biographies. Each chapter is thoughtfully arranged based on the poisoners’ motives, shedding light on their sometimes macabre, sometimes sympathetic choices. The detailed illustrations and Victorian-style aesthetics further amplify the narratives, offering readers an immersive experience into this chilling aspect of history.

While some of the classifications can feel somewhat stretched, and a few profiles could benefit from more detail, these are minor criticisms within the scope of the overall work. Yes, it takes some time to reach the titular 'lady poisoners', but the contextual groundwork laid is vital for a full appreciation of the stories that follow.

One of the book's most commendable qualities is Perrin's empathetic approach. She handles the more recent crimes with tact and sensitivity, showing an awareness of the ongoing effects on the victims' families and friends.

"The League of Lady Poisoners" is an enriching read for those fascinated by the intersection of psychology, history, gender, and crime.

What an informational read! This story was very eye opening. I loved reading about the poisons and why women chose to use them. I feel like many women from many walks of life were represented in this story. I also enjoyed the artwork that went along with the story.

Loved this book! The perfect combination of wit and facts. The author references a number of people's work on similar topics and has done a lot of research on these women.

What first intrigued me about The League of Lady Poisoners is the mention of Giulia Tofana. I have been fascinated with her story since she was featured on Bailey Sarian's "Murder, Mystery, and Makeup Monday" series on YouTube. If you have ever watched Bailey, then you know she has an amazing way of telling true crime stories that pull you in, and I have been looking for a book that gives me a similar vibe. I definitely felt that from Lady Poisoners. The illustrations are gorgeous, and the author does a good job at inserting witty quips when appropriate. It keeps the book light hearted despite the subject matter. Lisa Perrin also does not paint all the women as gruesome murders without a conscience. She sheds light on their humanity as many were forced into circumstances due to a patriarchal society and lack of mental health awareness.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am excited to purchase this book and add it to my shelf because it is stunning.

This was a fun read, and was obviously well-researched. Covering a variety of notorious female poisoners, this book takes a look at the women behind the stories and the reasons they may have had for doing what they did. The profiles are grouped by the motive-political gain, escape from domestic abuse, collecting life insurance, etc.-and each one includes a illustration. The illustrations are well done, with vibrant colors and fun designs. I felt like there was a good selection of people featured, though I would have like to see more diversity if it was possible. Overall, this was a fun, quick read.

I will be honest, I picked up this book based on the cover. It is one of the prettiest covers that I have seen in a long time. I was drawn into the book by the interior illustrations too. The subject matter is grave and the author did a great job both informing and keeping the information about each lady poisoner brief but yet highly informative. I was shocked to see how many lady poisoners there were even though I assume there are numerous that were never recorded for history. I look forward to any other books that Lisa Perrin writes.

I really enjoyed this well-researched book about the history of poisons and how women have used poison to kill. Some of the stories are typical Victorian-era stories of women disposing of abusive husbands with a little arsenic in their tea, but there were also stories of psychopathic serial killers and women who allegedly used poison for political gain. Some of the women were people I've heard of, but many were not, so it was great to get this overview of many different stories and time periods;

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"You know,
the way most friendly neighbors are there to
lend a cup of sugar or a thimbleful of the dust
of human remains."

A delightful look at poisons and some of the true crimes that women committed using them throughout history. Whether motivated by money, power, or fear these women all had a motive for their crime.

This book was tongue in cheek, snarky and sarcastic, funny and informative. The author did a great job with her illustrations that helped bring the stories to life as well along with her writing. This book is beautiful and I will be buying myself a hardback copy

Thank you NetGalley and the author for the advance copy of this book.

An interesting concept for a book, that takes the reader back through the ages at all the famous, or should I say infamous lady poisoners. Good details and images throughout, and while easy to read a bit and then put down again, I would highly recommend this book.

Wow, this book was absolutely mind-blowing! You can tell that a ton of work went into the research and writing of "The League of Lady Poisoners." It is, unfortunately, “not a how to book”, but as a reader, I seriously appreciate the insane amount of time and effort that was put into it.

What made this book really come alive for me was the author's use of humor and storytelling. Perrin knows how to spin a tale that keeps you hooked from start to finish. I found myself laughing out loud and getting totally engrossed in the narratives of these notorious poisoners. It's like they jumped off the page and into my imagination!

And let's talk about the graphics in this book, folks. They were downright beautiful. Perrin's attention to detail and artistic talent really shine through. The illustrations are just stunning and perfectly complement the stories being told. They're like eye candy, seriously.

"The League of Lady Poisoners" is a true masterpiece that showcases Perrin's incredible skills as a researcher and storyteller. She manages to blend historical facts with captivating storytelling in such a seamless way. You learn a ton while being totally entertained.

Listen, this book isn't just for die-hard true crime fans. It has something for everyone. The meticulous research, the gripping narratives, and the jaw-dropping visuals make it a must-read for anyone who loves a good story. Trust me, you'll be hooked from the first page.

In a nutshell, "The League of Lady Poisoners" is an absolute gem. Perrin knocked it out of the park with this one. It's a wild ride that will leave you in awe of these deadly women and hungry for more. So grab a copy, settle in, and prepare to have your mind blown!

Thank you NetGalley for providing me the the eARC.

I loved this book! The exact balance of entertainment and history, blended with crime. The illustrations and design of the book are spot on, and gorgeous. Cyanide green!

Advanced reader copy.

This was an interesting look into women who posion. From product of their time to deemed as crazy.

This was a fun and informative true crime novel. It was interesting to learn how history shapes lady poisoners and society and male dominate society add in myths and ledgends.
I also really enjoyed the art. I cannot wait to see what this looks like in print.

Thank you netgally and publisher for the ARC.

I admit, the gorgeous cover and title are what drew me to this book (kind of sounds like a graphic novel 😊). Thankfully, this one did not disappoint.

The chapters were broken down by the main motives of the poisoners (love, revenge, desperation, etc), which was a nice change from the usual chronological breakdown. The included illustrations and quotes were nice additions to the various stories.

I was familiar with some of the stories, but there were definitely more that haven't been repeatedly covered...will be busy for a while going back over my MANY bookmarks reading up more on these 😉.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I read this as an ARC ebook and my only regret is not reading it in print. I will be getting this book. The illustrations are gorgeous. You can tell Lisa Perrin took time and effort to research.

If you like true crime you will love this.

This book is gorgeous, stunning, wicked. It's beautifully illustrated and I will be buying my very own hardcopy ASAP to display on my shelf with all of my knick-knacks and plants. Intertwined with tales of women murderers, a pretty rare breed of individual (look at the stats!) is a commentary on historical womanhood, the patriarchy, and the double standards that are often used when reviewing the crimes of men vs. women, and even "average" vs. attractive women.

Interesting and beautifully illustrated, but I wish it had a bit more depth. Some of the information I was already familiar with, and I found myself disappointed when the events were simplified or glossed over. However, I did appreciate the attention paid to events from all over the world, and women who have not been reported on extensively before. I also liked how the author made an effort to evaluate the societal pressures and issues that led to these crimes. However, at times I wish the murderers had gotten less sympathy and the victims had gotten more, especially in cases where the victims were the children of the killer.

I have appreciated Lisa Perrin’s art for a while now, both on Instagram and on the various book covers she has designed. Her style is perfect for a book like this, and her illustrations are utterly gorgeous. Her writing also feels incredibly well researched and is so entertaining. With such a collection of stories about women poisoning people, you’d think it would become monotonous after the tenth or twentieth one, but each account is distinct, sometimes told with humor, and sometimes with social commentary on the circumstances of these fascinating women. The subject matter is certainly not for everyone, but if you like history and are mildly morbid, you will enjoy this one.

I received a free electronic copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The League of Lady Poisoners is filled with delightful tales of poisoning crimes. I appreciated that it included a list of common poisons and their symptoms, and I loved (most of) the drawings. They fit the classic, timey feel of Perrin's work. Overall, the League of Lady Poisoners is a perfect read for true-crime lovers. Personally, I found it to be interesting due to its lighter feel compared to other crime narratives.

Personally, I deducted a few stars from my rating, however, because I did not feel that the author gives a general balanced view of crime versus social factors on one or two specific cases. Although elements in society did need to change, the majority of these women still committed crimes warranting punishment. As a result, I disagree with a few statements. (It should be acknowledged that no scenario is completely black and white - the topic is tricky.)

A curiously fascinating book. Was it the poisonous-green artwork on the cover, the clever title, or the idea of women secretly using poison to change their life stories that drew me to this book? Probably all three! Lisa Perrin’s illustrations throughout masterfully blend with the narratives of women seeking love, revenge, money, control of their own lives, or helping others get out of bad situations.

Some of these names will be familiar—after all, they are notorious killers, and women at that! Their methods are intimate, as they carefully dole out poison in food, drink, or in medicines meant for sustenance or cures. Their unsuspecting targets are within the household realm or in the workplace, and the poisoners often are in positions as caretakers. Grouped by possible motives, these short biographies provide the setting, the backstory (if known), the crime, and the verdict for 25+ women. And, if you want more, Perrin provides a wide variety of sources to dig into afterwards.

A touch of wit balances the macabre theme, while solid research, riveting stories, and judicious use of illustrations round out Perrin’s debut book. I wonder what topics she’ll tackle next!

Prerelease book provided by NetGalley and Chronicle Books for review consideration.

#TheLeagueofLadyPoisoners #NetGalley #ChronicleBooks

3.5 stars, rounded up

The gorgeous cover of this book caught my eye while browsing through the NetGalley catalog. The title and book description clinched it, as I’m fascinated by what would probably be called “bad girls.” I was disappointed that the book was only available in PDF format, which resulted in having to read it on my laptop. I could open the file in the NetGalley Shelf app on my phone, but was unable to enlarge the text enough to be able to read it, and the NG Shelf app is apparently not available for my tablet or for Kindle (Why not? Other books available from NG can be read on a Kindle.)

Once I got past that frustration, I enjoyed this book. It’s obvious the author has done extensive research into the topic of female poisoners throughout history, and I like that it’s broken down into chapters based on the women’s motives – professional poisoners (those hired to do a job), escape and defiance, money and greed, power and politics, anger and revenge, and love and obsession. The stories of these women were sometimes compelling, sometimes curious, and sometimes repulsive, but they were all written well. I learned a bit from reading this book, and will recommend it to my reading friends interested in history, feminism and murder by poison.

I'll admit I first was drawn to this novel just for the wonderful cover. But, after reading it, I can say that Perrin masterfully crafts a great introduction to the history of poisons. She starts with a brief chronology of poison including even the foundation of the FDA and the Agency on Toxins, but she also give a brief overview of some of the most well-known poisons - both flora and fauna. For each, she gives illustrations to help the reader identify them in-person. Then, the rest of the novel gives historical background to some of history's renown poisoners - saving lives, fighting for freedom, fighting against the patriarchy to even fighting for love - each woman has a unique story behind their poisonous ventures. Lisa Perrin, you have.a knew found fan, and I cannot wait to read the other works you have, or will have.

*I received this e-book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

This was really interesting and so well done. The illustrations are gorgeous. I loved the educational bits about the history of poison, what happens to the body, and different types of poison. It was fascinating!

I’d definitely recommend this to lovers of true crime like myself. I even have some friends I’m going to suggest this to.

I’d like to thank Chronicle Books and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!

Lisa Perrin wrote eloquently about these historical women, organizing the chapters beautifully. It’s always a treat to read about Giulia Tofana, especially when well researched. The illustrations throughout the narrative were amazing, it was a nice touch and makes for a gorgeous book. I can’t wait to have it on my shelves!

Perrin's The League of Lady Poisoners is a lovely and informative book that's fun to read. Her illustrations for each lady poisoner entrance and the accompanying entries engage. Insight and research fill each page in an easily digestible flow. I was familiar with many of the poisoners profiled (hello, Lucrezia Borgia) but was pleased to discover several I was not (such as Frances Howard Carr). Overall, a worthy book for any history buff or poison aficionado's bookshelf.

Fascinating collection. Well written, combining history with a bit if humor to tell the stories of these women. Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book

I absolutely love the cover of this! I saw a sneak peek on Lisa Perrin's Instagram page and the foil cover is absolutely stunning! Plus it has green gilded edges too. I can't wait to buy this book, it's such a unique text that will make a beautiful addition to our shelves. From the very first page I knew it would be great, the illustrations and typesetting are visually eye catching and done in Lisa's unique style. They illustrations are both stunningly beautiful and haunting at the same time. The foreward was a really interesting read that helps set up the book and grab interest from the get go. The book also includes a toxic timeline which details the discoveries and uses of poisons throughout time, poisonous plants with beautiful detailed illustrations, poisonous creatures, and then several pages of lady poisoners. I would highly recommend for readers who enjoy history, art and design.

This book was wild! There was a broad range of women poisoners; some were righteous, most horrific, and a few truly bizarre. The illustrations were beautiful and haunting. Even if you don’t like true crime, I would recommend this book. It’s important to know the good and bad histories of women and how their actions were shaped by their role in society. Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!

Hemlock & nightshade & arsenic, oh my! This was an informative look at the history of poisons, how they are used and the women who used them. The front section gives you the broad-strokes of the more scientific aspects of the various forms of poisons; whether it is a plant, chemical or animal. From ancient Rome to 1950s American South, a wide variety of poisoners and their reasons behind doing so are explored. I've read books on poison before so was familiar with some of the stories, but I definitely learned a lot that I had never even heard of before. As a bonus to all the interesting information, the illustrations are beautiful. It is a fun read (can I say that about a book about poison?) and the illustrations take the enjoyment to the next level. If you have any interest in science, women's history or true crime, I think this would make an excellent next read!!

Many thanks to Chronicle Books and Netgalley for the ARC.

This book is about women poisoners throughout history and how their actions, and the reactions of others, can tell us a lot about what society was like. Perrin organizes her book into six parts: Women poisoners as professionals, using poison as self defense, financial gain, politics, revenge, and love.

The book is beautifully illustrated and brings a unique look into non-fiction books. Perrin writes in a non academic voice which could help readers trying to get into non-fiction works. Perrin tries to make the book as culturally diverse as possible.

Overall, it was a very entertaining read. I enjoyed learning about women poisoners throughout history and the motives that influenced their decisions.

This book was an absolute gem! It was witty, informative, and above all, gorgeous. The illustrations were stunning, and found myself as excited to turn the page to the next drawing as a child with a new picture book. For the most part, the stories were engaging and well written, my only critique being that some of the feminist themes became a bit repetitive. Not that I didn’t enjoy circling back to the fact that these women were oppressed, hopeless, out of options, etc. but unless you take this book in small doses (pun intended!) it feels a bit preachy reading one story after another where the reasoning starts to blur together. That said, this was entirely enjoyable and interesting, and a book I would love to have sitting on my coffee table or reference shelf!

A well researched and cited book compiling true stories of more than 25 dangerous women who killed someone (many of which I have never heard of and I am true crime fan all the way). The chapters are separated by motive (love, obsession, professional poisoners, greed etc) There is an empathic undertone to some of the poisoners when discussing some of their backrounds, countries and reasons behind the killings.
A combination of stunning art, history and true crime at its finest. Truly enjoyed this book. Thank you to Lisa Perrin, NetGalley and Chronicle Books for this e-ARC in return for my review.

This book is venom-enal!

I have read a lot of this sort of "the greatest hits of murder" (or medical disaster, poorly-conceived innovation, or other situation no one wanted or needed) compilation, & they are all sort of the same. They rehash a lot of stories you already know if you are an avid student of true crime (or medical history, or terrible inventions, or whatever) in an amusing & truncated manner & there are often some great illustrations because these books are often meant to be coffee table books, or books you can dip in & out of while you're waiting for your Hot Pocket to finish cooking.

THIS book is different. THIS book is what those other books aspire to be in their wildest fantasies.

It is compilation of true stories of female murderers throughout history, & it is accompanied by really gorgeous illustrations (including full-page frontispieces for most of the featured poisoners, each of which is individualized for that woman's unique story, & each of which is a gorgeous work of art all by itself--like, I would hang these in my home if they were available as art prints). & while it does cover some of the poisoning world's heavy hitters (Belle Gunness, Jane Toppan, Catherine de Medici), the author/illustrator, Lisa Perrin, also makes a dedicated effort to explore her subject matter as globally & historically as she can. She dips into legends of lady poisoners all the way backs in the BCs, she debunks commonly held myths (Cleopatra & the asp? Probably not), & she tells stories about poisoners & poison mythology you have almost certainly never heard of. I hadn't, & I thought I knew a lot about this stuff. She also includes beautifully illustrated introductory information about poison itself: the different kinds (botanic, elemental, & animal) & how it may have been sourced & used by assorted ne'er-do-wells. This was all information that was probably floating around loose in my brain, but to have it all consolidated in one place did a lot to rub the grimy allure off the true crime subject & to prepare me to read a book about human beings murdering other human beings.

Perrin organizes her book by categorizing her murderers by motivation, which I also found to be a very thoughtful approach. She never attempts to justify anyone's actions, but she does a lot of contextualize the circumstances of women murderers in particular. It has been uncommon throughout history for women to murder, period, so what drives some women to it? Maybe some are just bad people, but in some cases, could there be something unique about a woman's station in life that could drive her to it, & to make poison the weapon of choice? This depth of consideration is another way Perrin strips away the exploitation inherent to the true crime genre to ask questions with real historical & sociological value.

Often with author/illustrators, the illustrations may be gorgeous, but the writing is just okay. It's uncommon to find someone who can do both not just competently, but superlatively. Perrin is the exception. The writing is fantastic. In her biographies, she walks that almost-impossible tightrope between humor & respect for the gravity of the topic, while also weaving a compelling story out of every case. & clearly the book was thoroughly-researched, with a complete bibliography if the reader wishes to learn more about any particular subject. I really can't recommend this book enough. I expected it to be fun, but I didn't expect it to be so jaw-droppingly GOOD!

Note that the book is full-color, so for the most immersive rreading experience, get your hands on a hard copy or a format that allows you to enjoy the illustrations as they are meant to be enjoyed.

Absolutely smitten with this beautiful, deliberately researched book. It’s no surprise that the illustrations are stunning but I was so captivated by the way that Perrin chronicles the motivations and myths of the women in her book. I particularly enjoyed the emphasis on women whose experiences are so often historically marginalized. Perrin’s choice to categorize the women based on their motives to poison was impactful because it created a context of social commentary. This is absolutely a book I will purchase and revisit. Thank you to NetGalley for this beautiful ARC.

4.5 Stars
One Liner: Poison-licious ;)

Poison has been declared as a woman’s weapon of choice for murder. But is it really true? We know about some famous women who poisoned several people (for various reasons). Do we know why? How did poisoning become such a convenient way to get rid of someone? Which plants are toxic, and why do they also heal when taken in the right quantities?
This book discusses the answers to these questions and more. Whether you are a mystery lover, history buff, or true crime fan, The League of Lady Poisoners is sure to give you some interesting insights.
The book starts with a foreword and introduction. I love how the author explores the theme while pointing out many stereotypical issues that have become ‘facts’. Misogyny, gender restrictions, social constraints, oppression, witch hunts, media and historian bias, etc., play a role in how women ended up becoming famous for using poison to murder.
The author mentions that the book mainly deals with white women as she couldn’t find records for a more diverse and inclusive collection. After a brief timeline about poisons, we read about different poisonous plants around us (my favorite section), followed by venomous animals, and poisonous elements (with lots of data about arsenic, the most famous poison of all time).
There are bits and pieces about how these minerals were in wallpapers, cosmetics, gowns, etc., leading to millions of deaths over time. Then, we finally get to the core theme of the book- lady poisoners from history and glimpses into their lives. The list is categorized into sections based on what could be the possible motive for the murders.
The list starts with Locusta from Rome, the lady assassin with a vast knowledge of plants. She was a healer and a killer. The ladies mostly come from humble backgrounds with little o no means to survive and had to find ways to make a living.
The famous Vishakanyas from India are also on the list. This trope is still famous in our daily soaps (sigh!). Of course, Chanakya’s role has to be discussed (and how he fed small amounts of poison to Chandragupta Maurya to promote natural resistance in his body against poisonous attacks from enemies).
Then there’s Sally from the Caribbean, who took matters into her hands in Bermuda to fight slavery. Since she was a mixed-race woman, there isn’t enough about her earlier days, but we do know how she was sentenced to death by a jury of white men. The government of Bermuda has erected a 10-foot statue in 2008 to honor her.
We also find Cleopatra, Marie Lafarge, Mary Ann Cotton, Viva Murano, Lucrezia Borgia, Wu Zetian (the only woman ruler in China), Queen Ranavalona (the first female monarch in Madagascar who also fought French colonizers and Christian missionaries), Tillie Klimek, Frances Howard Carr, Christiana Edmunds, etc.
I love the bibliography at the end. It’s extensive but also neatly structured with headings and references, making it easy to look up more information for individual segments and people.
How can I end my review without talking about the illustrations? The art is exotic, dark, and bold, tinged with humor. It elevates the content and perfectly aligns with the writing style (which has good doses of dry and sarcastic one-liners). And why not? The author is also an award-winning illustrator, and it shows in her artwork.

To summarize, The League of Lady Poisoners is a comprehensive collection of all thing poison, with a major focus on women branded as lady poisoners. This book is best enjoyed in smaller doses. ;)
Thank you, NetGalley and Chronicle Books LLC, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
***
P.S.: I can’t help but wonder if the author would want to create a tarot/ oracle deck on this theme. I sure will buy it even if the currency exchange rate burns my pocket.
*****
Links to GR and Amazon reviews will be updated in Sep after the book's release.

I love the thrill and suspense of a good story. I was a fan of Deadly Women on Investigation Discovery. When I saw this book, I knew I had to read it. I love illustrated anthologies, history, and true crime.

I love how this book shows each woman’s background and how it influenced their actions. The women in this book live in different periods and have varying socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Their motives varied depending on their backgrounds and situations. Perrin shows how each story reflects the historical events and trends of their times, such as witch hunts, the French Revolution, the World Wars, or the rise in forensic science. It provides enough background information and details to help the reader understand the context and significance of each women’s story.

Another thing I love about Perrin’s book is how it details the various types of poisons used and their effects and consequences. It includes an illustrated primer that delves into the origins and properties of common poisons throughout history. These include chemicals such as arsenic or cyanide, poisonous and venomous animals such as the black widow spider and king cobra, and poisonous plants such as hemlock and nightshade.

Perrin explains how the women obtained, prepared, and administered poisons, often disguising them in food, drinks, cosmetics, or medicines. She describes the symptoms and signs of poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, convulsing, paralysis, or death. She also explores how some women evaded suspicion or prosecution for many years while others faced punishment such as hanging, burning, and imprisonment.

Lisa Perrin is an award-winning illustrator and the author of The League of Lady Poisoners, her first book. She is also a Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) professor. She loves to create art in the company of her rabbit. She describes her work as “exploring the old world in a new way, combining humor with darkness and beauty with strangeness.”

Each profile of the women in this book comes with colorful, detailed, and expressive illustrations. She notes that the Victorian Era influences many of her illustrations and is also the golden age of poison. The illustrations feature intricate patterns, borders, and lettering that evoke the style and elegance of that time. It also includes diagrams, charts, and labels that explain the origins and effects of the different poisons women use.

The illustrations are beautiful but also informative and educational, enhancing the reader’s experience. I highly recommend this title to anyone who is a history buff or true crime fan.

I had the joy of reading an eARC uncorrected proof of this book. It was a very interesting read with plenty of stories I'd never heard of before. I enjoyed the different stories from around the world. The artwork was really nice and I can't imagine what it would look like in person! I can't wait to see a physical edition of it.

A fascinating introduction to women throughout history who were known for poisoning people, proven or not, their possible motivations, and the types of poisons available throughout history. The illustrations, primarily in green, black, and white with some full-color portraits, were particularly stylish and attractive, and these were my favorite part of the book. While this book was clearly well-written and organized, it felt like a research paper. I wish the chapters had been longer and felt more narrative-driven rather than just providing an outline of events. Some of these women had very sympathetic stories, but it was hard to feel anything for them because we didn’t get to know any of them. If nothing else, this has given me a great starting point to do more reading about some of these complicated women.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy of this book for review.

This book was fascinating to read and I loved the artwork throughout. The way the author started with explaining the history of poison, not only its timeline but its general use in public as well as against women. Each poisoner was full explained from multiple sources. I also love how, unlike works of their time, they weren’t all portrayed as the villains of their stories. Some of them may not of even done what they were accused of and I appreciate that being highlighted. I loved the artwork through out, it was not only done well but it helped to “breakup” the text/information that is needed in a book like this. I really enjoyed this book and thought it was fascinating.

Equally fascinating and horrifying, I really enjoyed ‘The League of Lady Poisoners’. It’s very well written and the book itself is gorgeous. The layout and design, especially the illustrations add so much charm and individuality to the book and overall story. So much history and people I didn’t know about! I’ve got to own a copy for myself.

Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

The cover and the illustrations to THE LEAGUE OF LADY POISONERS are beautiful and really bring a lot to the book. I love the way green is spread throughout the illustrations.

I learned a lot from this book. I had no idea life insurance policies existed in the 1800s. My mind was blown. I enjoyed many of the stories, but they did become a bit repetitive.

This is such a tricky topic - as in who is to blame for the motive behind the poisonings? The women? Society? Their upbringing? For me, I felt the author glossed over how horrendous these crimes were for the victims and their families. Yet, she included snarky remarks about men and how they were keeping women down in society. However, women were the ones who were actually killing people.

Thank you NetGalley and Chronicle Books for an e-copy of THE LEAGUE OF LADY POISONERS.

I rate THE LEAGUE OF LADY POISONERS three out of five stars.

What a fascinating read!

I was unsure what to expect from this non-fiction book about lady poisoners and I was not disappointed.

The set up of the novel - all the background information in the front and the dynamic pictures before each story - impressed me even more.

Clearly well researched and with a knack for story-telling, Lisa Perrin hooked me!

As someone who is a true crime junkie, I loved this book. I was plesently surprised with learning about some new offenders I had not come across before in books, in shows, or podcasts i have listened to. The visuals/pictures in the book are amazing and a great addition to the book. I love the artwork/style that was added. I enjoyed how each chapter was set up in the book. I honestly would read this book again.

A compilation of stories about infamous lady poisoners across the globe and through our history. I absolutely loved this beautiful work of art, from the graphics to the storytelling. I was engrossed from start to finish. The attention to detail in the colorful illustrations throughout the book really brought the stories to life and made the characters even more imaginable. You can tell there were tons of research that went into this work, and it shows on the page. It's extremely well done, and I really appreciated the Poison Primer as an introduction to the book. Learning the history of poisoning and the various substances one can use to poison someone, gave a level of depth to the stories that went beyond entertaining storytelling. The author covers topics from motive (escape, money, power, abuse, etc.), to stereotypes ("poison is a women's weapon."), women's rights, psychology, science, history, and the law. While the author never attempts to justify or defend these poisoners actions, she has a way of telling the story to allow the reader to empathize and understand the motivations behind why some women feel so desperate as to turn to poisoning in the first place. Her sense of awareness of when to be serious and when to break with humor is spot on. I wasn't expecting this to be so good, but it really is. I can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy so I can appreciate the work of arts more fully. 5/5 from me and recommending to everyone I know!

I love the artwork within this book just as much as I love the actual written content. It’s a fantastic look at poisoners throughout history and the methods with which they used. It’s informative as well as fun. Probably one of my new favorites on the subject matter.

The League of Lady Poisoners: Illustrated True Stories of Dangerous Women by Lisa Perrin is currently scheduled for release on September 5 2023. This illustrated book will introduce you to some of the most infamous women throughout world history, united by their shared taste for poison. It weaves together the stories of more than twenty-five accused women poisoners, exploring the circumstances and skill sets that led them to lives of crime. You might find yourself rooting for some of them—like Sally Bassett, who helped poison her granddaughter’s enslavers in Bermuda, or Giulia Tofana, who sold her name-brand concoction to women wanting to be rid of their abusive (or otherwise undesirable) husbands. Other stories, though—including that of Yiya Murano, one of Argentina’s most notorious swindlers and serial killers, or the terrifying Nurse Jane Toppan—may prove less palatable. Organized into thematic chapters based on the women’s motives, the book also includes an illustrated primer that delves into the origins and effects of common poisons throughout history, as well as a foreword by Holly Frey and Maria Trimarchi, creators and hosts of the podcast Criminalia. It is a treat for true crime fans, feminist history buffs, and any curious readers fascinated by the more macabre side of human nature.

The League of Lady Poisoners is a well researched and written book. I found the author's voice and discussion of the social, economic, and gender expectations of each situation to be well informed and helpful in getting a better understanding of the topic, and what we just do not know because of the way journalism and history color history and information. I liked that the topic and people were all treated with respect but at the same time the author never took themselves too seriously, so there was a sense of humor and with through out the book as well. I thought the artwork matched the text and tone of the book, and enhanced the read for me. I greatly appreciated the detailed bibliography, which helps readers intrigue by a particular story or aspect of the book to further explore the research and information behind the book. I always appreciate recommendations to further my knowledge or understanding of a topic.

Amazing and well-researched book on lots of history, not just on various types of poisons, but alot of women and figures throughout many different time periods! I loved learning each of the women's stories the author discusses and puts into perspective why poisoning was almost sometimes "necessary" for women during certain eras/times. The illustrations throughout are absolutely beautiful and so intricate. The book is also broken down into sections regarding various subjects which makes it even more intriguing as each one gets better and more informative.

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC, I really enjoyed reading this book. The only thing that got somewhat repetitive was the constant use of complete titles of other books when quoting them throughout each chapter. Maybe they could have been left in the references section at the end or in footnotes. Other than that I think this book was extremely well researched, written, and I really hope the author does more books like this on other true crime subjects!!

This is a fun collection providing brief biographies of female poisoners. I like that the book organizes the stories by motive, instead of by region or in chronological order. The typology is a unique way to present these stories. The biographies are brief and intriguing, although the occasional feminist commentary doesn't always land effectively. Observations that female serial poisoners have less historical notoriety than male serial killers feels is a little too Girl Boss feminist "women can be infamous murderers too!" for my taste. It's more a shortcoming of pop feminism writ large than of this book specifically.

The individuals you would expect to be included in this volume, including Cleopatra, Guilia Tofana, and Lucrezia Borgia. I appreciate that these familiar, near-mythic, stories are presented in a new way, alongside many stories I wasn't familiar with. The best element of this book are the illustrations, particularly the portraits of the poisoners at the start of their chapters.

This was such a striking cover that immediately drew my eye. And a microhistory of women poisoners across history just sealed the deal.

This completely blew me away with how much I enjoyed it. I finished it in only two sittings. I just could not put it down. The writing style was engaging and personable, and it really felt like I was sitting down with a friend for coffee who wanted to just talk about their newest hyperfixation.

The women, spanning centuries and continents, are collected together in chapters focusing on the specific motives that drove these women to poison. And the text itself is very clear when there is no actual historical evidence of the poisonings and may just be rumors.

There's a brief primer on poisons at the beginning, detailing common herbal, animal, and mineral sources of poisons and their effects on the human body with miniature illustrations for some of them.

A lot of the biographies are also accompanied by these truly gorgeous portraits of the poisoners and a brief line or two summing up their lives. There are also several full page illustrated quotes about poisoning that I really honestly would purchase prints of as decoration. And the author's photo at the end of the book is truly just icing on this cake.

Highly recommend, immediately preordered my own copy!

Thanks to Chronicle Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ARC!

Book reviews are new to this site, and in the back to school tradition of September, I decided to kick things of with some nonfiction reviews.

I appreciate receiving ARC copies from NetGalley in exchange for honest reviews.

Goth

A follow up to Lol Tolhurst’s 2016 biography Cured, Goth is a more expansive look at the music and literary influences of the goth subculture. I really appreciates how this book also offers a window into how those looking for music outside the mainstream found it in a pre-internet world.

Perfect for music buffs, poets, and anyone interested in the goth sub-culture.

Goth will be released September 26th

The League of Lady Poisoners

Lisa Perrin’s volume is a beautifully illustrated compendium of woman who have welded poison throughout history. A highlight for me was how this book’s chapters are organized by the various motives of the titular lady poisoners, as it gives more context and nuance to their stories.

A great fall follow up to a summer of Barbenheimer, this book is perfect for true crime fans, feminists, and dark history enthusiasts.

The League of Lady Poisoners will be released September 19th.

The Anatomist’s Library

Colin Salter’s compilation of medical books spans six centuries and and is brimming with beautiful illustrations. I had no idea what to expect going into this book, and was happy to find some familiar names (da Vinci!) and again, all of the gorgeous images.

Perfect for art lovers, history buffs, and researching writers.

The Anatomist’s Library is available now.

Disentangling From Emotionally Immature People

The fourth book published by Lindsey C Gibson, this effort is designed to be a workbook used in conjunction with talk therapy. I really appreciated that Lindsey dedicates space to redefine the terms she uses despite this book being part of a series, and the thoughtful questions at the end of each chapter.

A helpful guide for anyone dealing with difficult people in their lives.

Disentangling From Emotionally Immature People is available now.

The Death Doula’s Guide to Living Fully and Dying Prepared

A death literacy advocate, Francesca Arnoldy’s thoughtful book is designed assist readers in not only preparing for end of life arrangements, but fostering self-awareness and compassion. I found her discussion points thought provoking and designed help readers live a balanced life while preparing for the inevitable.

Any reader can benefit from this book.

The Death Doula’s Guide to Living Fully and Dying Prepared is available now.

Filled with lovely artwork and succinct overviews of a variety of women throughout history who were known-or thought to be-poisoners, this illustrated collection would make a gorgeous coffee table book with its eye-catching cover and a macabre topic that will spark lively conversation.

There were a few familiar names in this collection, but I was unaware of quite a few of the women throughout history who were known as poisoners. I enjoyed how the author intersected the women's actions with the historical context and societal barriers that might have driven some of them to murder.

While the presentation of this topic is served in an almost whimsical manner, the facts are anything but light-hearted. This is a heavy topic served in an appealing way. The author introduces the reader to a number of lady poisoners and then gives an extensive and broad range of resources if your interest is piqued and you want to dive further into the disturbing lives of any of these women.

I would like to add that I appreciated how the author noted that this is not an exhaustive list since people of color and people identifying within the LGBTQIA+ sphere rarely-if ever-had their stories documented and told.

If you are enthralled with the topic of lady poisoners, I would recommend adding this intriguing and disturbing book to your collection.

Thank you Chronicle Books via NetGalley for allowing me to respond to this book with my honest opinions.

With writing reminiscent of Deborah Blum, Mary Roach, and Sam Kean, The League of Lady Poisoners is a fantastic look at an interesting niche of crime history. Poison is but one of many means of dispatching those you dislike (for any number of reasons). The women that wield the poison in these tales are as varied in background, likely motive, and method of dispatch as any lineup on murderers (or suspected murderers) row. Although a fair many of them do choose arsenic as their weapon of choice...

The artwork is stunning. It has both humor and gravitas for its' chosen femme fatales. The writing manages to make the historical accounts of the women and their lives both humorous and heartening. There is context given to each of the women, both historical and personal, as a way to see why poison was their method of choice to deal with the people in their lives that they wanted to be rid of. For whatever reason. Whether for vengeance or for lack of other options, the women behind the deadly deeds were not one-note caricatures. Perrin captures their lives and weaves their stories in a way that makes you both amazed at their audacity, and a little enamored of their gumption.

This deserves to be a coffee table book that is displayed proudly. The history is rich, the women interesting, and the poisons deadly.

I loved the images in this book! They were really delightful and the stories themselves were fascinating and I loved learning and reading this book. The first section of this book was a background on poisons (animal, mineral, chemical etc.) and I appreciated the primer. I also liked that the author emphasized that poison is in the dosage. The actual information about each of the poisoners (organized by motive), was super fascinating, and I really enjoyed reading about each individual.

Well, the dose really does make the poison. This was the perfect nonfiction read to kick of spooky season! Perrin clearly did her research and wrote a glorious book that looks at societal norms, the punishment of unwed women, and the patriarchy. The artwork, also done by Perrin, is absolutely stunning and adds to the enjoyment (weird to say about a book about poisoners.) I felt like I was listening to a podcast instead of reading and I finished this in a couple hours because I couldn’t put it down.

I learned so much reading this book. I just had no idea! It was definitely mind blowing. There were so many different types of Lady Poisoners. Some did it to help other and some did it because they were crazy or evil. This book was just wild. I loved it! Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for the arc in exchange for my honest review.

Thanks to Netgalley and Chronicle Books for the ARC of this illustrated history of women poisoners!

I absolutely loved the tone that this took, I am always more interested in non-fiction that feels conversational or snarky. I really liked the illustrations, as well as the variety of women included.

I have to say I really enjoyed this book. If you like true crime you’ll love this book. It was interesting to have a book full of women who used poison for one reason or another. I love how the author divided up this book. First off showing that it’s not just women who use poison. Secondly showing you different types of poisons before jumping into these stories. I had so much fun reading that I could not put it down and walk away. And the illustrations are beautifully done! This whole book is gorgeous! I will definitely be recommending this book to everyone I know!

I had heard several of these cases already, but the detail that the author provides for each one is amazing. I also got to learn more about women I hadn't heard of and the reasonings as to why some of them did what they did. I always am so fascinated by the concept of what they did because it seems like only something you can get away with a long time ago.

If you really like to get into the weeds of true crime history, then I highly recommend this one. I read this in one sitting so that should tell you how easy this one is to get through!

A wickedly fun, macabre look at lady poisoners throughout history, with some damn fine artwork to go with it. Caution: May Induce Paranoia

Despite the nefarious and sinister subject that the book covers, it tells the interesting history of women poisoners in history. It also includes lovely and intricate illustrations along with famous quotes. I would highly recommend it.

A fascinating read. Most of the women featured throughout this very well written book I've never heard of. The Legend of the Visha Kanya of India. The fact that Cleopatra was well versed and an expert in poisons and venom. The vileness of Mary Ann Cotton and all the horrific things she did for insurance money. Among many others.

This book gives the reader a good glossary of information without getting too granular in detail. You get an idea of these women and potential motives or reasons why they did what they did.
The illustrations can't be understated in their beauty. It adds on to the reading experience. Which is why I've given this book 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I'd like to thank the publisher, the author Lisa Perrin and Netgalley for allowing me to give my review of this.

The League of Lady Poisoners by Lisa Perrin is a gorgeously illustrated guide to the women who chose to use their kitchens for brewing things other than coffee. Perrin takes readers on a well researched journey through history as she lays out the facts and fallacies of these infamous cases of poisoning.
While the storytelling flows and is perfect for any/all times of year, the true crime aspect makes it a perfect read for spooky season! This darkly funny tome is easy to understand and tries to answer to answer the question of “why” instead of just the “who” and the “what” behind the cases. Perfect for fans of Ancient History Fangirl, Spill the Mead, and Queens podcasts.

This was fun!!! The graphics were great and this was obviously very well researched. I'm a total true crime buff so this was right up my alley. I recommend this book for lesser-known pieces of history!