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The Apothecary's Garden
National Bestseller Canadian Indies Bestseller Indigo Top Ten Canadian Reads Indigo's Most Anticipated Books of 2022 Finalist Saskatchewan Book Awards, Book of the Year Finalist City of Saskatoon Book Award Victorian Touring circuses, seances, and a world powered by steam engines. But in Belleville, Ontario, a twenty-eight-year old spinster, Lavender Fitch, barely scrapes by, selling flowers from her garden at the train station, her position in life greatly diminished after the death of her father, the local apothecary. Then, one day, a glamorous couple step off the train. The lady is a famed spirit medium, Allegra Trout, who has arrived for a public show of her mediumship, accompanied by her handsome but disfigured assistant, Robert. With her striking beauty and otherworldly charms, Allegra casts a spell over Belleville from the moment she arrives. Lavender is captivated by the medium as well. She’s been searching for a secret cache of money and hopes Allegra might be able to contact her dead mother for clues to its hidden location. As the Trouts remain in town, preparing for their Mystical Extravaganza, Robert and Lavender grow close, much to Allegra’s disapproval. Will Robert and Lavender's relationship blossom or will it be abandoned when he leaves for the next town? Will Lavender find her mother's gift or be forced from her home and beloved garden? The Apothecary’s Garden is a magical story about the mysteries of life, the enchantment of flowers, and wonders of love
368 pages, Paperback
First published June 28, 2022
46 people are currently reading
1356 people want to read
About the author
Jeanette Lynes
16 books55 followersJeanette Lynes is an award-winning author and has published half a dozen collections of her poetry, as well as both appearing in and editing several anthologies. The Factory Voice is her first published work of fiction.
She has served in writer-in-residence positions in Saskatoon and Dawson Creek, BC. She holds a Ph.D in English from York University and an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Southern Maine.
Jeanette spent six years working in Thunder Bay before taking her current position as an English professor at St. Francis Xavier University where she is the campus newspaper editor.
She currently lives in Antigonish, Nova Scotia.
From the author:
I've always loved to write. When I was growing up on a farm in Ontario, I made newspapers of local goings-on in the community: for example, 'Mrs. MacTavish Gets Smashing New Easter Bonnet'. I drew the boxes around the little stories and everything, just like a real newspaper.
When I was in high school, I worked in a factory one summer; I've written about this in a poem called "Hairnets and Giblets," from my first book of poetry. My factory experience was brief but made a deep impression on me, especially the various loyalties and allegiances within the workplace, and how a factory becomes a kind of micro-world unto itself.
I've always been fascinated by how people interact with each other and a fiction project like The Factory Voice allowed me the space to explore this fascination.
When I lived in Thunder Bay during the 1990s, I was involved in an project based on Canadian Car and Foundry, the factory in former-day Fort William, that made war planes. The project involved interviewing ladies who had worked on the line during the war. Their stories never left me, and around 2001, I began to imagine their lives in the aviation plant, and thus began The Factory Voice.
She has served in writer-in-residence positions in Saskatoon and Dawson Creek, BC. She holds a Ph.D in English from York University and an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Southern Maine.
Jeanette spent six years working in Thunder Bay before taking her current position as an English professor at St. Francis Xavier University where she is the campus newspaper editor.
She currently lives in Antigonish, Nova Scotia.
From the author:
I've always loved to write. When I was growing up on a farm in Ontario, I made newspapers of local goings-on in the community: for example, 'Mrs. MacTavish Gets Smashing New Easter Bonnet'. I drew the boxes around the little stories and everything, just like a real newspaper.
When I was in high school, I worked in a factory one summer; I've written about this in a poem called "Hairnets and Giblets," from my first book of poetry. My factory experience was brief but made a deep impression on me, especially the various loyalties and allegiances within the workplace, and how a factory becomes a kind of micro-world unto itself.
I've always been fascinated by how people interact with each other and a fiction project like The Factory Voice allowed me the space to explore this fascination.
When I lived in Thunder Bay during the 1990s, I was involved in an project based on Canadian Car and Foundry, the factory in former-day Fort William, that made war planes. The project involved interviewing ladies who had worked on the line during the war. Their stories never left me, and around 2001, I began to imagine their lives in the aviation plant, and thus began The Factory Voice.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
February 17, 2023
I’m scratching hard here to bring my rating up to three stars… let’s say 2.5. Personally I found this novel all over the place; a dog’s breakfast mashed together which wasn’t quite historical fiction, hardly “magical”, at times gruellingly repetitive while poetic and flowery. The title was misleading: the garden actually was the main character Lavender’s mother’s garden and her father was the apothecary. Certainly inviting, like the gorgeous cover yet the contents didn’t deliver, for me.
It was a though the author had a story in mind - the impoverished young lady, the mysterious fortune teller’s arrival, the handsome gentleman and plunked them into the setting and time of Belleville, Ontario in 1860. The historical references- Prince Albert Edward’s anticipated visit, the outcome- were interesting. However, when “The Men of Orange” were referred to, poetic license I’m assuming on the part of the author, the hair on the back of my neck began to prickle: Orangeman is the correct name and the “history” was so poorly (missing critical details) explained, Jeanette Lynes lost me as a fan… And then the use of “bedizen”… SERIOUSLY? Get your history straight before dropping archaic English vocabulary pretentiously into your story.
The great mystery- oh, that nest egg which might take Lavender out of such dire poverty- I gamely hung on, chapter after chapter. The book had nicely set me up to care a LOT from its beginning- the starving Lavender, the haunting harp… all I can say is, Pftttt.
Learned a bit; was prompted to research more and review that which I thought I had already known (yes, those Orangemen)- and that lovely cover. The novel had possibilities- for me they simply were not realised.
It was a though the author had a story in mind - the impoverished young lady, the mysterious fortune teller’s arrival, the handsome gentleman and plunked them into the setting and time of Belleville, Ontario in 1860. The historical references- Prince Albert Edward’s anticipated visit, the outcome- were interesting. However, when “The Men of Orange” were referred to, poetic license I’m assuming on the part of the author, the hair on the back of my neck began to prickle: Orangeman is the correct name and the “history” was so poorly (missing critical details) explained, Jeanette Lynes lost me as a fan… And then the use of “bedizen”… SERIOUSLY? Get your history straight before dropping archaic English vocabulary pretentiously into your story.
The great mystery- oh, that nest egg which might take Lavender out of such dire poverty- I gamely hung on, chapter after chapter. The book had nicely set me up to care a LOT from its beginning- the starving Lavender, the haunting harp… all I can say is, Pftttt.
Learned a bit; was prompted to research more and review that which I thought I had already known (yes, those Orangemen)- and that lovely cover. The novel had possibilities- for me they simply were not realised.
November 16, 2022
DNF Not sure if it was me or the book but I just couldn't get into it. No motivation to continue so I've decided to pull the plug.
April 18, 2022
“Your flowers steal my breath away, Miss Fitch!”
Immediately readers will be swept back in time to Belleville, Ontario in the 1860s. The rich atmosphere and sense of place and time will astonish you. Lavender Fitch, 28, takes her cart, ‘Beauteous Botanics’, daily to the train station selling her flowers and posies, hoping to make enough money to support her and her orphan charge, 15 year old Arlo Snook. Before her death, Lavender’s mother hid a nest egg to secure Lavender’s future, but it’s yet to be found! In the meantime, Lavender and Arlo endure a leaking roof and a meager sustenance.
When a famous oracle and her partner come to town, everything changes for Lavender.
I was fascinated with the portrayal of rural Canadian life in the 19th century, the language of flowers and the hints of magic! Lynes explores the definition of family and will leave you anxious to do some gardening yourself. The characters, like the setting, were expertly crafted and I loved that the ‘light’ was contagious, smiling as one good turn fostered another.
I was thankful for an opportunity to read a book by a Canadian author and learn more about early life in my country.
I was gifted this advance copy by Jeanette Lynes, HarperCollins Canada, HarperAvenue and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Immediately readers will be swept back in time to Belleville, Ontario in the 1860s. The rich atmosphere and sense of place and time will astonish you. Lavender Fitch, 28, takes her cart, ‘Beauteous Botanics’, daily to the train station selling her flowers and posies, hoping to make enough money to support her and her orphan charge, 15 year old Arlo Snook. Before her death, Lavender’s mother hid a nest egg to secure Lavender’s future, but it’s yet to be found! In the meantime, Lavender and Arlo endure a leaking roof and a meager sustenance.
When a famous oracle and her partner come to town, everything changes for Lavender.
I was fascinated with the portrayal of rural Canadian life in the 19th century, the language of flowers and the hints of magic! Lynes explores the definition of family and will leave you anxious to do some gardening yourself. The characters, like the setting, were expertly crafted and I loved that the ‘light’ was contagious, smiling as one good turn fostered another.
I was thankful for an opportunity to read a book by a Canadian author and learn more about early life in my country.
I was gifted this advance copy by Jeanette Lynes, HarperCollins Canada, HarperAvenue and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 30, 2022
3.5 rounded up.
Set in 1860s Belleville, Ontario, this was a great historical fiction book about 28 year old Lavender Fitch, left alone after her parent's deaths with only their house, lavish gardens and a house boy for company.
Life in town gets more exciting when a famed Spiritualist, Allegra Trout arrives with her disfigured assistant, Robert. Lavender isn't able to resist falling under their charms and hopes to have Allegra help her contact her dead mother to figure out where she might have hidden a mysterious inheritance.
Rich in historical detail, this story has a great cast of memorable characters and I loved how independent and strong Lavender was. Using her skills and knowledge of plants and flowers, she is able to scrape by and ultimately ends up finding both love and career satisfaction in the town she loves.
Great on audio and and highly recommended for fans of books like The lost apothecary by Sarah Penner. Much thanks to NetGalley and Harper Avenue for an advance review copy!
Set in 1860s Belleville, Ontario, this was a great historical fiction book about 28 year old Lavender Fitch, left alone after her parent's deaths with only their house, lavish gardens and a house boy for company.
Life in town gets more exciting when a famed Spiritualist, Allegra Trout arrives with her disfigured assistant, Robert. Lavender isn't able to resist falling under their charms and hopes to have Allegra help her contact her dead mother to figure out where she might have hidden a mysterious inheritance.
Rich in historical detail, this story has a great cast of memorable characters and I loved how independent and strong Lavender was. Using her skills and knowledge of plants and flowers, she is able to scrape by and ultimately ends up finding both love and career satisfaction in the town she loves.
Great on audio and and highly recommended for fans of books like The lost apothecary by Sarah Penner. Much thanks to NetGalley and Harper Avenue for an advance review copy!
June 29, 2022
I admit I was mostly drawn to request this book due to its historical Canadian setting, authorship, and gorgeous cover. It looked like a perfect spring book to read and then when the ARC arrived from the publisher I promptly put it on my shelf until summer (which worked out, because then my amazing neighbour dropped off these peonies on the weekend from her garden which MATCHED THE BOOK PERFECTLY).
I really enjoyed Lavender's character, but I felt she was lacking the kinds of connections with others that I am so desperately seeking when I read a book. I know that was part of the point, but it was hard not to want that for her as a character. While I did ultimately end up enjoying the ending of this story, I did feel at times like the pacing or writing was a bit hard to follow and I alternated between the print and the audiobook to get a sense of which thread I was following. This could have easily been a case of me and not the book since my brain is keeping track of a million #MomLife things this last week of school, so take that with a grain of salt.
There were definitely some Sarah Addison Allen vibes in this story and if you like her magical realism and learning more about flowers and herbal remedies from the past this might be more of a win for you in your reading life.
I really enjoyed Lavender's character, but I felt she was lacking the kinds of connections with others that I am so desperately seeking when I read a book. I know that was part of the point, but it was hard not to want that for her as a character. While I did ultimately end up enjoying the ending of this story, I did feel at times like the pacing or writing was a bit hard to follow and I alternated between the print and the audiobook to get a sense of which thread I was following. This could have easily been a case of me and not the book since my brain is keeping track of a million #MomLife things this last week of school, so take that with a grain of salt.
There were definitely some Sarah Addison Allen vibes in this story and if you like her magical realism and learning more about flowers and herbal remedies from the past this might be more of a win for you in your reading life.
December 30, 2022
I was hoping I would like this more than I did. Spiritualists, ghosts and gardening sounded like a fun combination. Unfortunately the characters were bland, plot was predictable and very unrealistic to the point where no actions seemed to have consequences. Writing often clunky and read like the author was trying too hard. It is the kind of book you read for a book club and promptly forget about.
July 12, 2022
Jeanette Lynes takes us into another world, one where the characters are as rich and sumptuous as the flowers, the privations as keenly felt as the elation, and the world is as vibrant in winter as in the height of summer. I have loved all of Lynes' novels, but this one is the best yet. The Apothecary's Garden is a triumph and a delight!
July 28, 2022
2.5/5 Meh….. I found the writing way too descriptive and florid and a lot of the dialogue nonsensical. The storyline was mawkishly corny. I found it pretty boring and hard to get through. On the plus side, the book cover is gorgeous. This just wasn’t a book for me.
June 28, 2024
This book was not for me. Zero plot and filled with too many frilly words. It felt like the author just really needed to get all her favourite adjectives out, then sprinkled in a few more they found on the way.
August 6, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins Canada for this advanced copy!
I really liked this story! Lavender is a woman just trying to make ends meet with the skills her apothecary father and gardening mother taught her. When an oracle and her assistant come to town (set in Belleville, ON!) everything changes for Lavender. She hopes with the oracle's help she can uncover where her parents left their nest egg which would put food on the table and fix the leaking roof over her head. This story is full of loveable characters like Arlo and Sophie, Robert and Allegra, Dr. Minyard, and Dot Tickell.
One aspect of the story that I really liked was how it showed the concept of creating your own family. Not everyone has to be a blood relation to be part of your family and Lavender created a group of her own. I also learned a new term: Floriography! The study of flowers and their meanings and symbolism.
This story will have you dreaming in blooms, and the cover will help with that, absolutely beautiful!
I really liked this story! Lavender is a woman just trying to make ends meet with the skills her apothecary father and gardening mother taught her. When an oracle and her assistant come to town (set in Belleville, ON!) everything changes for Lavender. She hopes with the oracle's help she can uncover where her parents left their nest egg which would put food on the table and fix the leaking roof over her head. This story is full of loveable characters like Arlo and Sophie, Robert and Allegra, Dr. Minyard, and Dot Tickell.
One aspect of the story that I really liked was how it showed the concept of creating your own family. Not everyone has to be a blood relation to be part of your family and Lavender created a group of her own. I also learned a new term: Floriography! The study of flowers and their meanings and symbolism.
This story will have you dreaming in blooms, and the cover will help with that, absolutely beautiful!
December 4, 2022
1. Очень легкий и приятный авторский стиль с легким юмористическим налетом. Юмор автора ненавязчивый и слегка абсурдный, с той самой ноткой британской невозмутимости (но это Канада есличо), из-за которой совершенно абсурдные момент сюжета воспринимаются так забавно. Читать это историю легко, можно осилить за вечер, и если не пытаться найти исторический реализм (этого делать не надо, но 100% кто-то попробует), это получится восхитительный способ расслабиться на вечер.
Однако иногда язык книги немного огонь. Цитатка-пример:
"Варн Миньярд был ей как дядя; катал её на коленках, когда она была ещё маленькой, и всегда присылал рождественские подарки.
До сегодняшнего дня Лаванда виделась с ним только по лёгким недомоганиям — ссадина в детстве, лёгкий грипп. Теперь ей было крайне неловко, когда он, как серьёзный доктор, коим и являлся, изучал каким-то напоминающим холодный утиный клюв прибором её южный сад. Осмотр был каким угодно, но точно не поверхностным."
"Главное - не сажать в южном саду корнеплоды." (с) ksenyarg
Гг, Лаванда, нищая. Она так любит свои цветы, что страдает от необходимости срезать и продавать их, но альтернатив у неё нет. В один день она следует со своей тележкой за толпой к станции, потому что на поезде приезжает знаменитая дама, медиум, оракул.
Эта дама выходит, красивая, богатая, роскошная. С ней выходит высокий джентльмен, вроде бы симпатичный, если бы не тот факт, что у него обожжена половина лица. Он сразу же видит тележку Лаванды, идёт к ней и выдает: "У меня дух захватывает от ваших цветов!". И скупает всю тележку.
И ладно бы это, дальше лучше. Он пытается вручить цветы медиуму, она отмахивается, он кричит в толпу, что представление медиума будет потом, а пока что пусть все посмотрят на женщину с самыми шикарными цветами. Гг в ступоре, ей такие: мисс Фитч, это он про вас". Она ещё более в ступоре.
И дальше, значит:
"— От ваших цветов у меня дух захватывает, мисс Фитч! — Роберт обратил всеобщее внимание на Лаванду, а Аллегра едва ли не тащила его за собой как огромный цветочный массив.
Лицо Лаванды вспыхнуло. Её теперь особенно обострившийся слух уловил, как Аллегра бесстрастно сказала "Роберт, идём, у нас работа", ещё активнее утягивая его за собой за рукав дорогого пальто.
Они двинулись к станции, окружённые назойливыми зрителями.
— Прямо дух захватывают! — опять крикнул Роберт Лаванде перед тем, как его цветочный караван и бесцеремонная пара в плаще, скрылись на станции.
Роберт. Полубог-полусвекла".
И тут меня порвало хд
Все бы ничего, но теперь героиня думает о нем через слово. А он мало того что наполовину свекла, так ещё и форель — у него фамилия Траут.
"А мог бы быть селедкой под шубой" (с) Mar Que
2. Оригинальность истории...ничего супер-особенного и супер-оригинального в деталях тут не происходит, но суммарно это история, при своей простоте, не отдает вторичностью. Это история сама в себе, со своей целью и сюжетной линией, и легко воспринимается как самостоятельный проект, который не нужно ни с чем сравнивать.
3. Зачем эта книга: чтобы расслабиться вечером-другим над милой и простой историей любви и обретения семьи.
4. Несмотря на то, что это максимально простенькая история, она показалась мне одной из тех, которые однозначно следует советовать и рекомендовать. Этот тот самый случай, когда фразу «легкая книга» можно воспринимать как хорошую характеристику. В истории Лаванды Фитч нет ни единого момента, к которому хотелось бы придираться, потому что совершенно очевидно, что это история для того, чтобы разгрузить мозг.
5. Тот факт, что все приходит к совершенному хэппи-энду, а сложности по пути к нему не кажутся по-настоящему непреодолимыми или серьезными, во-первых, вообще не спойлер, а во-вторых, не кажется чем-то, что может убить интерес к чтению. Аптекарский Сад — это книга, которую читают ради самого путешествия, а не поворотов сюжета или откровений.
6. При этом в книге есть свои загадки — что не так с Аллегрой и Робертом? Что случилось с лицом Роберта? Кем ему приходится Аллегра? Жулики они или же правда они способны на что-то сверхъестественное?
Как именно ответить на все эти вопросы, можно легко угадать. Опять же, это не супер-неожиданное развитие событий, потому что смысл истории не в финальном откровении, а в путешествии. Колебания Лаванды, ее сомнения в Роберте и неуверенность в своем будущем; странная и загадочная откровенность Роберта вперемешку с тем, как он регулярно скрывает самое основное; агрессивность и неприветливость Аллегры по отношению к Лаванде даже после того, как та помогла ей с постоянными болями и недугами. Все это — как раз самая основная суть книги.
7. В общем и целом, делая вывод: это невероятное приятное легкое приключение с приятными персонажами, странноватым юмором и хорошим концом. Почти как в рождественской истории.
Однако иногда язык книги немного огонь. Цитатка-пример:
"Варн Миньярд был ей как дядя; катал её на коленках, когда она была ещё маленькой, и всегда присылал рождественские подарки.
До сегодняшнего дня Лаванда виделась с ним только по лёгким недомоганиям — ссадина в детстве, лёгкий грипп. Теперь ей было крайне неловко, когда он, как серьёзный доктор, коим и являлся, изучал каким-то напоминающим холодный утиный клюв прибором её южный сад. Осмотр был каким угодно, но точно не поверхностным."
"Главное - не сажать в южном саду корнеплоды." (с) ksenyarg
Гг, Лаванда, нищая. Она так любит свои цветы, что страдает от необходимости срезать и продавать их, но альтернатив у неё нет. В один день она следует со своей тележкой за толпой к станции, потому что на поезде приезжает знаменитая дама, медиум, оракул.
Эта дама выходит, красивая, богатая, роскошная. С ней выходит высокий джентльмен, вроде бы симпатичный, если бы не тот факт, что у него обожжена половина лица. Он сразу же видит тележку Лаванды, идёт к ней и выдает: "У меня дух захватывает от ваших цветов!". И скупает всю тележку.
И ладно бы это, дальше лучше. Он пытается вручить цветы медиуму, она отмахивается, он кричит в толпу, что представление медиума будет потом, а пока что пусть все посмотрят на женщину с самыми шикарными цветами. Гг в ступоре, ей такие: мисс Фитч, это он про вас". Она ещё более в ступоре.
И дальше, значит:
"— От ваших цветов у меня дух захватывает, мисс Фитч! — Роберт обратил всеобщее внимание на Лаванду, а Аллегра едва ли не тащила его за собой как огромный цветочный массив.
Лицо Лаванды вспыхнуло. Её теперь особенно обострившийся слух уловил, как Аллегра бесстрастно сказала "Роберт, идём, у нас работа", ещё активнее утягивая его за собой за рукав дорогого пальто.
Они двинулись к станции, окружённые назойливыми зрителями.
— Прямо дух захватывают! — опять крикнул Роберт Лаванде перед тем, как его цветочный караван и бесцеремонная пара в плаще, скрылись на станции.
Роберт. Полубог-полусвекла".
И тут меня порвало хд
Все бы ничего, но теперь героиня думает о нем через слово. А он мало того что наполовину свекла, так ещё и форель — у него фамилия Траут.
"А мог бы быть селедкой под шубой" (с) Mar Que
2. Оригинальность истории...ничего супер-особенного и супер-оригинального в деталях тут не происходит, но суммарно это история, при своей простоте, не отдает вторичностью. Это история сама в себе, со своей целью и сюжетной линией, и легко воспринимается как самостоятельный проект, который не нужно ни с чем сравнивать.
3. Зачем эта книга: чтобы расслабиться вечером-другим над милой и простой историей любви и обретения семьи.
4. Несмотря на то, что это максимально простенькая история, она показалась мне одной из тех, которые однозначно следует советовать и рекомендовать. Этот тот самый случай, когда фразу «легкая книга» можно воспринимать как хорошую характеристику. В истории Лаванды Фитч нет ни единого момента, к которому хотелось бы придираться, потому что совершенно очевидно, что это история для того, чтобы разгрузить мозг.
5. Тот факт, что все приходит к совершенному хэппи-энду, а сложности по пути к нему не кажутся по-настоящему непреодолимыми или серьезными, во-первых, вообще не спойлер, а во-вторых, не кажется чем-то, что может убить интерес к чтению. Аптекарский Сад — это книга, которую читают ради самого путешествия, а не поворотов сюжета или откровений.
6. При этом в книге есть свои загадки — что не так с Аллегрой и Робертом? Что случилось с лицом Роберта? Кем ему приходится Аллегра? Жулики они или же правда они способны на что-то сверхъестественное?
Как именно ответить на все эти вопросы, можно легко угадать. Опять же, это не супер-неожиданное развитие событий, потому что смысл истории не в финальном откровении, а в путешествии. Колебания Лаванды, ее сомнения в Роберте и неуверенность в своем будущем; странная и загадочная откровенность Роберта вперемешку с тем, как он регулярно скрывает самое основное; агрессивность и неприветливость Аллегры по отношению к Лаванде даже после того, как та помогла ей с постоянными болями и недугами. Все это — как раз самая основная суть книги.
7. В общем и целом, делая вывод: это невероятное приятное легкое приключение с приятными персонажами, странноватым юмором и хорошим концом. Почти как в рождественской истории.
June 24, 2022
Belleville, Ontario, 1860. Lavender is barely scraping by after the death of her father. A spinster, caretaker of an orphan, she begins to break down and sell her garden at the local train station to make ends meet. It is here where she meets Allegra and Robert Trout, two mysterious strangers. Allegra is a traveling spirit medium, and her brother Robert is her aid (While he is the love interest, he is described as disfigured in the book with a half of his face covered in burn scars - I found the comparison to beets and a half charred book to be ableist, even if it was befitting for the time period).
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After this set up, the story follows a sort of cozy mystery storyline, with Lavender attempting to find her mother’s hidden treasure and trying to uncover the truth being the Trouts. It was interesting to read and I think the prose will catch many readers who enjoy romanticizing early European life in Canada.
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Please note that while this book takes place 7 years before the Dominion of Canada was established, there is absolutely no mention of the active colonization of this country and the harm being done to indigenous people. This book appears to live in its own bubble and I do find this ignorance harmful.
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CW: Ableism, financial instability, loss of parents (off page), & con artists targeting grieving families.
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Hisses & Kisses 🐍
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*I received an ARC from HarperCollins Canada in exchange for my honest review*
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After this set up, the story follows a sort of cozy mystery storyline, with Lavender attempting to find her mother’s hidden treasure and trying to uncover the truth being the Trouts. It was interesting to read and I think the prose will catch many readers who enjoy romanticizing early European life in Canada.
.
Please note that while this book takes place 7 years before the Dominion of Canada was established, there is absolutely no mention of the active colonization of this country and the harm being done to indigenous people. This book appears to live in its own bubble and I do find this ignorance harmful.
.
CW: Ableism, financial instability, loss of parents (off page), & con artists targeting grieving families.
.
Hisses & Kisses 🐍
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*I received an ARC from HarperCollins Canada in exchange for my honest review*
April 9, 2024
I chose this book based on the beautiful cover and was pleasantly surprised to find it set in Belleville, ON. Though I am not familiar with this town, it was nice to read about a Canadian city. It is set in the 1860’s and follows Lavender’s struggle to keep the roof over her head and food in her belly following her father’s passing. The writing is beautiful…lovely use of adjectives and style. The story is quite slow, and takes quite a bit of time to develop the characters. I found the relationships between the characters were flat, lacking in depth. I would have appreciated better development of the relationship between Lavender and Robert. I give this one 3 stars.
September 6, 2023
Love a Canadian historical fiction book by a Canadian author! More on the literary side and may be slow for some readers. I enjoyed the quaint pace and the blend of horticulture, rural life & a look into the backstages of 19th century spiritualism.
June 12, 2025
Had a really hard time getting into this book. I’m glad it wasn’t a stressful read, but at times it was just so weird? The character’s reactions to things and decision making often doesn’t make sense. I see what the author was trying to do but maybe make the characters care more about each other.
June 29, 2022
Thank you Harper Collins Canada for sending me this ARC.
I really liked the idea and concept of the book, but I was just hoping for more. This could be entirely my fault, couldn't really get into it from the start, with lots of outside interruptions. I loved the Canadian setting but just something was missing for me, I constantly had questions about where this was going.
I really liked the idea and concept of the book, but I was just hoping for more. This could be entirely my fault, couldn't really get into it from the start, with lots of outside interruptions. I loved the Canadian setting but just something was missing for me, I constantly had questions about where this was going.
August 5, 2024
Why You Should Read The Apothecary's Garden by Jeanette Lynes
HarperCollins Publishers (Toronto, Canada, 2022)
Paperback (356 pages)
ISBN: 978-14434-6466-6
Review by Bonnie Zink
Jeanette Lynes’ The Apothecary's Garden, released in 2022 by HarperCollins Press, is a beautifully crafted novel that explores themes of loss, love, and personal transformation. While the story unfolds in the Ontario town of Belleview in 1860, its emotional depth and connections to nature resonate strongly with readers who have a deep-rooted connection to the land and personal growth.
As someone deeply engaged in uncovering family secrets through my memoir about my mom’s life, her battle with cancer, and its lasting impact on my family, I found Jeanette Lynes’ The Apothecary’s Garden to be a profoundly moving and relatable read. This novel masterfully intertwines personal transformation, loss, and the quest for hidden truths, intricately reflecting the profound connections between these themes and the reader's own journey.
A Journey Through Herbology and Spiritualism
The story centers on Lavender Fitch, a young woman grappling with poverty after losing her father and mother. Lavender’s life is entwined with herbology and spiritualism—elements that parallel my own experiences. I, too, use herbs like Saint John’s Wort to manage life’s challenges and turn to spiritual practices for guidance. Lavender’s quest to uncover secrets from her mother’s past through a renowned medium mirrors my own journey to understand my family’s history and its impact on my life. Her struggle for financial stability and personal growth through these practices felt incredibly familiar and resonant.
A Reflection of Personal and Historical Resonance
Though The Apothecary’s Garden is set in a different time and place, its themes of transformation and resilience connect with my own experiences in Saskatchewan. Just as Saskatchewan’s history is a living narrative of change and growth, the historical context of Belleville in the novel offers a rich backdrop for Lavender’s journey. The way Lynes captures the historical and cultural details enhances the story and provides a reflective parallel to my own exploration of family history and personal growth.
A Read That Inspires Creative and Personal Growth
My work on my memoir, which explores my mom’s life, struggle with cancer, and its impact on my family, has been a profound journey of personal and creative exploration. The Apothecary’s Garden offers a similar exploration of personal resilience and growth. The novel’s portrayal of Lavender’s resourcefulness and her engagement with herbal and spiritual practices is inspiring. It encourages readers to reflect on their own journeys and uncover hidden truths within their lives.
Why You Should Read It
The Apothecary’s Garden is a beautifully crafted novel that delves into themes of loss, love, and the search for hidden truths. Its rich historical setting and exploration of herbology and spiritualism make it a compelling read. I give this book an 8/10 on my “should read” scale. If you’re interested in historical fiction, personal transformation, or simply a well-written story that mirrors our own quests for meaning and understanding, this book is worth diving into. I encourage you to experience Lavender’s journey and find connections to your own life’s narrative.
HarperCollins Publishers (Toronto, Canada, 2022)
Paperback (356 pages)
ISBN: 978-14434-6466-6
Review by Bonnie Zink
Jeanette Lynes’ The Apothecary's Garden, released in 2022 by HarperCollins Press, is a beautifully crafted novel that explores themes of loss, love, and personal transformation. While the story unfolds in the Ontario town of Belleview in 1860, its emotional depth and connections to nature resonate strongly with readers who have a deep-rooted connection to the land and personal growth.
As someone deeply engaged in uncovering family secrets through my memoir about my mom’s life, her battle with cancer, and its lasting impact on my family, I found Jeanette Lynes’ The Apothecary’s Garden to be a profoundly moving and relatable read. This novel masterfully intertwines personal transformation, loss, and the quest for hidden truths, intricately reflecting the profound connections between these themes and the reader's own journey.
A Journey Through Herbology and Spiritualism
The story centers on Lavender Fitch, a young woman grappling with poverty after losing her father and mother. Lavender’s life is entwined with herbology and spiritualism—elements that parallel my own experiences. I, too, use herbs like Saint John’s Wort to manage life’s challenges and turn to spiritual practices for guidance. Lavender’s quest to uncover secrets from her mother’s past through a renowned medium mirrors my own journey to understand my family’s history and its impact on my life. Her struggle for financial stability and personal growth through these practices felt incredibly familiar and resonant.
A Reflection of Personal and Historical Resonance
Though The Apothecary’s Garden is set in a different time and place, its themes of transformation and resilience connect with my own experiences in Saskatchewan. Just as Saskatchewan’s history is a living narrative of change and growth, the historical context of Belleville in the novel offers a rich backdrop for Lavender’s journey. The way Lynes captures the historical and cultural details enhances the story and provides a reflective parallel to my own exploration of family history and personal growth.
A Read That Inspires Creative and Personal Growth
My work on my memoir, which explores my mom’s life, struggle with cancer, and its impact on my family, has been a profound journey of personal and creative exploration. The Apothecary’s Garden offers a similar exploration of personal resilience and growth. The novel’s portrayal of Lavender’s resourcefulness and her engagement with herbal and spiritual practices is inspiring. It encourages readers to reflect on their own journeys and uncover hidden truths within their lives.
Why You Should Read It
The Apothecary’s Garden is a beautifully crafted novel that delves into themes of loss, love, and the search for hidden truths. Its rich historical setting and exploration of herbology and spiritualism make it a compelling read. I give this book an 8/10 on my “should read” scale. If you’re interested in historical fiction, personal transformation, or simply a well-written story that mirrors our own quests for meaning and understanding, this book is worth diving into. I encourage you to experience Lavender’s journey and find connections to your own life’s narrative.
January 26, 2023
I quite enjoyed this historical romance set in Belville, Ontario in 1860. Twenty-eight year old spinster Lavender Fitch is living in poverty after the death of her father, the local apothecary. All she has to support herself is the sale of the flowers that she grows in her late mother's garden. One day, a glamorous pair arrive on the weekly train - spiritual medium and fortune teller Allegra Trout, and her disfigured assistant Robert. They soon have the whole town abuzz, including Lavender. Can Allegra help Lavender contact her late mother to help her find the nest egg her mother supposedly left her? Who is the mysterious Robert, to whom Lavender feels drawn? This book really is just romantic fluff, but it is good romantic fluff. The author creates a real sense of place and time, and I felt very drawn to the setting. I liked that she incorporated real life authors Susanna Moodie and Catherine Parr Traill, who lived in Belville at the time, into the story as very minor characters, although only readers with an interest in Canadian literature from that time period will likely pick up on it. There is a touch of magical realism in this book, which isn't normally my thing, but in this case it worked very well. As a lover of history and a lover of gardens, I found this book to be a great diversion and a wonderfully relaxing palate cleanser.
February 19, 2023
3.5 stars.
I picked up this book on a whim - Canadian author, historical fiction, set in Upper Canada, a bit of magic… why not?
I’m guessing the author had fun writing this novel. Her language is very creative and playful. It feels “old-fashioned” but it works, for the most part, because she is evoking an earlier time. However, that playfulness did result in some descriptions that were somewhat jarring - “Arlo’s lips curled into a wistful smile.” (To me a wistful smile is not curled, rather a softening of the face - in my mind Arlo was on his way to a sneer…) Reading this book was a bumpier ride than it needed to be. The author also had a tendency to make very long lists - when mentioning certain flowers in her garden the list went on and on. Likewise when she lists all the smells our heroine encounters on her walk in the village - a few, sure, but there were so many smells that my own imagination stopped trying to keep up with it all. She also repeated herself often, not trusting her readers to remember what they had just read a page before. Sometimes the repetition was direct - prose in the text - sometimes it was parenthetical.
I found myself quite frustrated by the flowery writing and the very slow plot that I almost gave up on. It took until about the two-thirds mark before it actually flowed for me and then had no trouble finishing it. It’s a very sweet story. I have no trouble recommending this book to someone who loves flowery language and wishes to avoid heavy drama, evil characters and cursing.
I picked up this book on a whim - Canadian author, historical fiction, set in Upper Canada, a bit of magic… why not?
I’m guessing the author had fun writing this novel. Her language is very creative and playful. It feels “old-fashioned” but it works, for the most part, because she is evoking an earlier time. However, that playfulness did result in some descriptions that were somewhat jarring - “Arlo’s lips curled into a wistful smile.” (To me a wistful smile is not curled, rather a softening of the face - in my mind Arlo was on his way to a sneer…) Reading this book was a bumpier ride than it needed to be. The author also had a tendency to make very long lists - when mentioning certain flowers in her garden the list went on and on. Likewise when she lists all the smells our heroine encounters on her walk in the village - a few, sure, but there were so many smells that my own imagination stopped trying to keep up with it all. She also repeated herself often, not trusting her readers to remember what they had just read a page before. Sometimes the repetition was direct - prose in the text - sometimes it was parenthetical.
I found myself quite frustrated by the flowery writing and the very slow plot that I almost gave up on. It took until about the two-thirds mark before it actually flowed for me and then had no trouble finishing it. It’s a very sweet story. I have no trouble recommending this book to someone who loves flowery language and wishes to avoid heavy drama, evil characters and cursing.
April 27, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.75 rounded up)
The Apothecary’s Garden is a plant lover’s dream! I was immediately swept back in time with this alluring story of spirits, gardening and found family. The characters in this story are intriguing from the famed and mysterious medium Allegra to Lavender who is a master of flowers and all things growing.
Lavender has fallen on hard times. Her mom and dad have both passed leaving her in a dilapidated house. Luckily she has her mother’s green thumb and her father’s medicinal knowledge when it comes to plants. Lavender barely makes ends meet by selling flowers at the train station. One day she meets Robert, the assistant of the notorious and mysterious medium, Allegra. Their organic connection is blooming yet their love is forbidden as Allegra stands in the way. Will Lavender ever be able to find happiness?
Great job @lynes.jeanette 👏🏻
Thank you to @harpercollinsca for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. 🥰
#booksofhcc #bookstagram #canadianbookstagram #bookadoration #theapothecarysgarden #jeanettelynes #apothecary
The Apothecary’s Garden is a plant lover’s dream! I was immediately swept back in time with this alluring story of spirits, gardening and found family. The characters in this story are intriguing from the famed and mysterious medium Allegra to Lavender who is a master of flowers and all things growing.
Lavender has fallen on hard times. Her mom and dad have both passed leaving her in a dilapidated house. Luckily she has her mother’s green thumb and her father’s medicinal knowledge when it comes to plants. Lavender barely makes ends meet by selling flowers at the train station. One day she meets Robert, the assistant of the notorious and mysterious medium, Allegra. Their organic connection is blooming yet their love is forbidden as Allegra stands in the way. Will Lavender ever be able to find happiness?
Great job @lynes.jeanette 👏🏻
Thank you to @harpercollinsca for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. 🥰
#booksofhcc #bookstagram #canadianbookstagram #bookadoration #theapothecarysgarden #jeanettelynes #apothecary
May 24, 2022
3.75 stars
What a wonderfully strange story this was. The minute I heard about this book and discovered it was set in Belleville, Ontario - a place I’m extremely familiar with - I knew I had to read it. It was so much fun reading about familiar places and picturing myself wandering the streets with Lavender Fitch.
I was originally going to rate this book lower, but the more I thought about it, the more I realize I enjoyed it more than I originally thought. The pacing felt a bit off at times, and the writing was overly flowery and sometimes felt like it was trying too hard to sound poetic. However, I enjoyed various aspects of the book, like the glimpse of life in the 1860s, learning more about the language of flowers, and the hint of magic. I liked Lavender, and I appreciated how strong, resourceful, and tenacious she was in the face of so many obstacles. I also enjoyed the themes of connection, friendship, and the healing power of love. As someone who’s interested in spirituality and mysticism, I liked that aspect too.
Overall, this was an entertaining read, and I think lovers of historical fiction will enjoy this glimpse at life in Belleville in the 1860s.
*I received this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts are my own.
What a wonderfully strange story this was. The minute I heard about this book and discovered it was set in Belleville, Ontario - a place I’m extremely familiar with - I knew I had to read it. It was so much fun reading about familiar places and picturing myself wandering the streets with Lavender Fitch.
I was originally going to rate this book lower, but the more I thought about it, the more I realize I enjoyed it more than I originally thought. The pacing felt a bit off at times, and the writing was overly flowery and sometimes felt like it was trying too hard to sound poetic. However, I enjoyed various aspects of the book, like the glimpse of life in the 1860s, learning more about the language of flowers, and the hint of magic. I liked Lavender, and I appreciated how strong, resourceful, and tenacious she was in the face of so many obstacles. I also enjoyed the themes of connection, friendship, and the healing power of love. As someone who’s interested in spirituality and mysticism, I liked that aspect too.
Overall, this was an entertaining read, and I think lovers of historical fiction will enjoy this glimpse at life in Belleville in the 1860s.
*I received this book from the publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts are my own.
March 6, 2022
Floral and poetic, The Apothecary’s Garden by Jeanette Lynes is set in 1860s Belleville, Ontario and centres around Lavender Fitch, a 28 year old spinster who is forced to scrimp and save every cent in her life after her father’s sudden passing, along with his beloved apothecary. All that Lavender has left is her family house and beautiful gardens. One day when a famous medium, Allegra Trout visits Belleville, the whole town falls prey to her mystical charms. Lavender concocts a plan to try and contact her deceased mother so that she may locate her hidden nest egg to secure her future. The trouble is, the medium’s assistant Robert is as intrigued by Lavender as she is by the famous duo and their paths cross in the most mysterious ways. Aided by the magic of Lavender’s flower garden, the local doctor, a strange artist, and fierce determination, Lavender unexpectedly finds the healing balm she never knew she was looking for.
First off, I would like to share that I grew up and live nearby to Quinte West, Ontario and was absolutely delighted to read a story that takes place close to home. Belleville is one of the most charming towns in the province and it made the perfect setting for this enchanting story. I loved the bits of spiritualism and floriography that were woven throughout the story and the indomitable spirit of Lavender Fitch. Jeanette Lynes historical research is evident through the descriptive writing and atmospheric details of 1860s Ontario. With that being said, I wish the apothecary was incorporated a little more into the story and I wish there was a magical realism flavour as that would have made the perfect cup of tea for me. I also think there were some loose ends that were never quite tied by the end of the story. Apart from those critiques, I was absolutely smitten with this story and look forward to the warmer temperatures when I can get back into my own garden.
I will definitely be purchasing a copy once published and will be sharing it with my Belleville friends.
Overall The Apothecary’s Garden will delight readers who are fascinated by the secret language of flowers and the trials and tribulations of those trying to survive the harsh realities of the 19th century.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
First off, I would like to share that I grew up and live nearby to Quinte West, Ontario and was absolutely delighted to read a story that takes place close to home. Belleville is one of the most charming towns in the province and it made the perfect setting for this enchanting story. I loved the bits of spiritualism and floriography that were woven throughout the story and the indomitable spirit of Lavender Fitch. Jeanette Lynes historical research is evident through the descriptive writing and atmospheric details of 1860s Ontario. With that being said, I wish the apothecary was incorporated a little more into the story and I wish there was a magical realism flavour as that would have made the perfect cup of tea for me. I also think there were some loose ends that were never quite tied by the end of the story. Apart from those critiques, I was absolutely smitten with this story and look forward to the warmer temperatures when I can get back into my own garden.
I will definitely be purchasing a copy once published and will be sharing it with my Belleville friends.
Overall The Apothecary’s Garden will delight readers who are fascinated by the secret language of flowers and the trials and tribulations of those trying to survive the harsh realities of the 19th century.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2024
I loved so many aspects of this story and appreciated the ending! I did love living in this small town while reading this! I did find Lavender made to be maybe too simple minded to catch on to some very obvious things and did seem out of character at times. Some aspects of the story were very cheesy and predictable. But overall this was a sweet little fluffy read.
July 11, 2022
I was pleasantly enwrapped in the book from the title or Part l, yarrow. I love yarrow. This was lovely historical fiction and an easy entertaining story. The ending was extremely clean, probably a little to clean for me, but saying that I have no idea what alternative would have fit.
November 3, 2022
3.5 stars really.
November 14, 2022
We bought an old house and along with it, old fashioned flowers and herbs grew on the property, some of which are not available in a modern garden center. Great to read some of the history behind these plants.
December 5, 2022
This isn’t like any novel I’ve read before but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Nothing really bad happens in this sweet story set 150 years ago in rural Ontario. Themes of flowers, botanical remedies, tea, love & ongoing connection after death, chosen family, poetry.
Also the cover is so pretty. It made me smile just to look at the book on a snowy December weekend.
Also the cover is so pretty. It made me smile just to look at the book on a snowy December weekend.
March 4, 2023
Cute / corny book. The storyline easibly guessable, but still enjoyed the book
March 24, 2025
DNF. I made it 25% through the book but just can’t stick with it. Having lived in Belleville for six years, I was interested in the location and storyline. But I found the writing too stilted and forced to keep me engaged.
[Audiobook. The narration was fine but it’s possible I would’ve had a different take on this book if I’d read it myself instead.]
[Audiobook. The narration was fine but it’s possible I would’ve had a different take on this book if I’d read it myself instead.]
January 3, 2025
I tried so hard to fall in love with this book; it was too slow to really hook me in. I really enjoyed the last 75 pages or so, but the build was too slow for my liking. While it was an enjoyable read, I could have just as easily abandoned it to move onto something that better captivated my attention.
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