A forgotten history. A secret network of women. A legacy of poison and revenge. Welcome to the Lost Apothecary.
Hidden in the depths of eighteenth-century London, a secret apothecary shop caters to an unusual kind of clientele. Women across the city whisper of a mysterious figure named Nella who sells well-disguised poisons to use against the oppressive men in their lives. But the apothecary’s fate is jeopardized when her newest patron, a precocious twelve-year-old, makes a fatal mistake, sparking a string of consequences that echo through the centuries.
Meanwhile in present-day London, aspiring historian Caroline Parcewell spends her tenth wedding anniversary alone, running from her own demons. When she stumbles upon a clue to the unsolved apothecary murders that haunted London two hundred years ago, her life collides with the apothecary’s in a stunning twist of fate—and not everyone will survive.
With crackling suspense, unforgettable characters, and searing insight, The Lost Apothecary is a subversive and intoxicating debut novel of secrets, vengeance, and the remarkable ways women can save each other despite the barrier of time.
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“Readers who enjoy Katherine Howe and Susanna Kearsley will be drawn to this promising, fast-paced debut.”
— Booklist
“A bold, edgy, accomplished debut.”
— Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author“Engrossing, with rich detail, assured pacing and effective suspense.”
— Tampa Bay Times“A completely absorbing story of the power of secrets and finding one’s way.”
— Historical Novels Review“Spellbinding…A novel that simply overwhelms with its delicate spell.”
— BookPageSarah Penner is the author of The Lost Apothecary, her first novel. She works full-time in finance and is a member of the Historical Novel Society and the Women’s Fiction Writers Association. To learn more, visit slpenner.com.
Lauren Irwin is an English musician, actor, and winner of an AudioFile Earphones Award. She began her career performing in West End productions of Annie, and Oliver, before releasing several singles in her teens, and going on to work in film and television in her adult years.
Lorna Bennett is a voice talent and audiobook narrator.
Lorna Bennett is a voice talent and audiobook narrator.