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“It was beginning to seem like every person, every place, carried an untold story with long-buried truths resting just beneath the surface.��

Some people feel a special affinity towards antiquities and history. These are the reminiscence that helps people to imagine and unravel the mysteries of the lost time. It has the power to teleport us, like a portal, to a time we couldn’t see and can hold a lot of sentiments. I am one of the abovementioned people and hence I really enjoyed reading this book. It has a simple plot; circling the lives of ordinary people and the simple mysteries they hold. The novel somewhere reminded me of the series ‘Outlander��.
The novel centre’s around women; their lives, unified bond, emotions, and little mysteries. It is said that poisons are women’s secret powerful weapon, the plot of this novel is defined by this. The novel follows a parallel narration of 2 centuries; the 18th and 21st, connected by the discovery of an antique apothecary vial. Sometimes spontaneous events determine the course of one’s life; here discovery of the vial alters the course of Caroline’s life. The sacrifice she made long ago for a stable life silenced the inquisitive history enthusiast in her and pushed her to a mundane life. However, she finds her lost dream when she finds the reminiscent of the lost apothecary. Unravelling the mysteries from the long lost apothecary brings a sense of achievement and power to her. Knowing something unknown to many especially if its history lifts one to the moon.
Some might not agree to the notions nurtured by the apothecary; it’s generic disgust and conviction towards men. But to the latter's defence, the apothecary serves as a haven for the afflicted women; to listen and pacify their ailments caused by men. Nella’s character, despite her nefarious profession, portrays the image of a caring mother who tries to see the pain and empathizes with her clients. Eliza with her bright inquisitive yet humble mind resonates with Caroline from the 21st century. The blue vial from the apothecary and the courage they derive from it connects them both. In the end, unlike Caroline I wouldn’t have the strength to let go of something that changed my life, that holds a lot of sentiments and secrets; instead, I would have treasured it like a souvenir. The brilliant characters and plot of the novel are fascinating. With a mystery hanging in throughout the novel it’s very intriguing to read. It also has a very beautiful and vibrant cover page that attracts readers.