Language: PG-13 (15 swears, 0 ‘f'); Mature Content: PG-13 (references to abortion, description of childbirth, death and grief, discussions of murder and poisoning); Violence: PG-13 (beatings, domestic abuse, emotional abuse, sexual assault, murder)
BUYING ADVISORY: HS, ADULT - OPTIONAL
APPEALS TO: SEVERAL
16yo Carmela is finally old enough to work at her mother’s apothecary in Renaissance Rome. The shop is known in the neighborhood for dispensing the best love potions and treatments for everyday aches and pains, but is also the target of suspicion from the local authorities, due to rumors that they dispense more deadly ‘remedies’ as well. As Giulia, Maria, and Laura teach Carmela how to craft their healing balms, they also share the nature of the care they give their customers. When one of Carmela’s ill-advised decisions endangers her mother and the apothecary’s very existence, these lessons will be vital for Carmela’s survival, as well as that of the apothecary and the women of the neighborhood.
I liked this book for the most part, but it’s a little bit niche so it would likely only appeal to girls interested in history. I liked the Renaissance Rome setting and the atmosphere that leant the story. I loved the relationship between all the women and their dedication to each other and the women who needed them. It painted a picture of the important role women played in society. I didn’t like that all of the male characters were terrible people. Basically, every woman in the book had been abused in some way and all the men were pretty one-dimensional. I’m all for women helping women and female solidarity, but it just wasn’t realistic for all the men to be monsters.
Andrea R
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment