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The Hemlock Cure
A glitteringly dark historical novel of love, persecution, and survival set against the backdrop of one of history's most terrifying episodes: the Bubonic Plague.
It is 1665 and the women of Eyam village keep many secrets. Especially Isabel and Mae.
Isabel Frith, the village midwife, walks a dangerous line with her herbs and remedies. There are men in the village who speak of witchcraft, and Isabel has a past to hide. So she tells nobody her fears about the pious, reclusive apothecary, on whom she is keeping a watchful eye.
Mae, the apothecary's youngest daughter, dreads her father's rage if he discovers what she keeps from him: her feelings for Rafe, Isabel's ward, or the fact that she studies from her father's books at night.
But others have secrets too. Secrets darker than any of them could have imagined.
When Mae makes a horrifying discovery, Isabel is the only person she can turn to. But helping Mae will place them both in unimaginable peril. Meanwhile another danger is on its way from London. One that threatens to engulf them all. . .
It is 1665 and the women of Eyam village keep many secrets. Especially Isabel and Mae.
Isabel Frith, the village midwife, walks a dangerous line with her herbs and remedies. There are men in the village who speak of witchcraft, and Isabel has a past to hide. So she tells nobody her fears about the pious, reclusive apothecary, on whom she is keeping a watchful eye.
Mae, the apothecary's youngest daughter, dreads her father's rage if he discovers what she keeps from him: her feelings for Rafe, Isabel's ward, or the fact that she studies from her father's books at night.
But others have secrets too. Secrets darker than any of them could have imagined.
When Mae makes a horrifying discovery, Isabel is the only person she can turn to. But helping Mae will place them both in unimaginable peril. Meanwhile another danger is on its way from London. One that threatens to engulf them all. . .
336 pages, Paperback
First published June 7, 2022
53 people are currently reading
3054 people want to read
About the author
Joanne Burn
3 books47 followersJoanne Burn was born in Northampton in 1973, and now lives in the Peak District where she works as a writing coach. Her first novel, Petals and Stones, was published in 2018. The Hemlock Cure is her second novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
March 8, 2022
2.5***
This wasn’t a bad book but it just didn’t capture my attention.
This book is set in the town (village) of Eyam in the 1660’s when the bubonic plague was sweeping through England. Eyam rose to fame for their measures of self-isolation at that time- meaning the plague was less likely to pass on to other towns/villages surrounding it. This was also a time where religion and witchcraft were warring heads with each other, and accusations of witchcraft arose.
While a lot of this is set in historical fact, the characters and some events are fiction.
The centre of this novel follows Mae. A character I really enjoyed as she wanted to learn and work in an apothecary, however, due to her domineering and violent father, this way is barred to her (as she is female, he only thinks she should do womens work).
This book also follows Isabel and Johan who know something is wrong with Wulfric (Maes father) and that Mae is in danger.
With the backdrop of the plague and isolation, the tenseness of family relationships and secrets do come out.
While I believe this book was marketed as “female friendship” to survive, I found this was much more of a lesser theme to this book. I found most of this was book was about Mae’s independence and actions, as well as her interactions/issues with her father.
This also delved into a character, Johan, and as he is outside of Eyam when the lockdown starts, he must decide whether to go back to Isabel or chance it outside.
While this didn’t grab my attention and was a bit of a slog to read, I really enjoyed learning about the different plants and poisons and their effects on the body.
This wasn’t a bad book but it just didn’t capture my attention.
This book is set in the town (village) of Eyam in the 1660’s when the bubonic plague was sweeping through England. Eyam rose to fame for their measures of self-isolation at that time- meaning the plague was less likely to pass on to other towns/villages surrounding it. This was also a time where religion and witchcraft were warring heads with each other, and accusations of witchcraft arose.
While a lot of this is set in historical fact, the characters and some events are fiction.
The centre of this novel follows Mae. A character I really enjoyed as she wanted to learn and work in an apothecary, however, due to her domineering and violent father, this way is barred to her (as she is female, he only thinks she should do womens work).
This book also follows Isabel and Johan who know something is wrong with Wulfric (Maes father) and that Mae is in danger.
With the backdrop of the plague and isolation, the tenseness of family relationships and secrets do come out.
While I believe this book was marketed as “female friendship” to survive, I found this was much more of a lesser theme to this book. I found most of this was book was about Mae’s independence and actions, as well as her interactions/issues with her father.
This also delved into a character, Johan, and as he is outside of Eyam when the lockdown starts, he must decide whether to go back to Isabel or chance it outside.
While this didn’t grab my attention and was a bit of a slog to read, I really enjoyed learning about the different plants and poisons and their effects on the body.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2022
This wonderful book is based on true events that happened in 1666’s England during the plague where a whole village, Eyam, quarantined itself in an attempt to slow the number of deaths occurring from the plague, and let me tell you, after the last two years this book certainly makes for an interesting read!
We follow Mae, the daughter of Wulfric the village apothecary, as she tries to further her education in the medical field by studying to become a midwife with Isabel, the local midwife and healer, and serving under her father who runs the local apothecary as she hopes to one day become his apprentice so she can use her medical knowledge to better help those around her. Unfortunately for Mae, her father doesn’t believe that women have any role in the medicinal field, and let’s face it, back then if you were a woman who excelled in the medical field you were most certainly a witch.
We soon learn that Isabel has a history with Mae’s father and she’s concerned what may happen to Mae while she continues living with him, as he’s an abusive religious man who is hiding all manner of shocking family secrets which Mae is about to uncover.
The plot was beautifully placed and the the world building was phenomenal, there were numerous points I could easily envisage myself in Eyam during the midst of the deadly plague. It’s very clear that the author has done her research for this book and it stays true to the historical account of this incident. I can’t imagine living in a time where plagues and viruses like this were perceived and treated, along with the ridiculous suspicion that any woman that’s good at what she does is a witch.
If you love historical fiction then you’re going to love this book, it;’s absolutely wonderful. Thank you so much to Millie at Little Brown Book Group for sending me a proof in exchange for my honest review.
We follow Mae, the daughter of Wulfric the village apothecary, as she tries to further her education in the medical field by studying to become a midwife with Isabel, the local midwife and healer, and serving under her father who runs the local apothecary as she hopes to one day become his apprentice so she can use her medical knowledge to better help those around her. Unfortunately for Mae, her father doesn’t believe that women have any role in the medicinal field, and let’s face it, back then if you were a woman who excelled in the medical field you were most certainly a witch.
We soon learn that Isabel has a history with Mae’s father and she’s concerned what may happen to Mae while she continues living with him, as he’s an abusive religious man who is hiding all manner of shocking family secrets which Mae is about to uncover.
The plot was beautifully placed and the the world building was phenomenal, there were numerous points I could easily envisage myself in Eyam during the midst of the deadly plague. It’s very clear that the author has done her research for this book and it stays true to the historical account of this incident. I can’t imagine living in a time where plagues and viruses like this were perceived and treated, along with the ridiculous suspicion that any woman that’s good at what she does is a witch.
If you love historical fiction then you’re going to love this book, it;’s absolutely wonderful. Thank you so much to Millie at Little Brown Book Group for sending me a proof in exchange for my honest review.
January 17, 2022
Get this on your TBR pile because...
This peaked my interest as it is inspired by the true story of the so-called ‘plague village’ of Eyam in Derbyshire. Eyam has a very interesting claim to fame. It is the village a the centre of the plague out break in 1665. The villagers of Eyam decided to cordon off the village, allowing no one in and no one out in order to try and keep the plague contained. This is a story of the plague of 1665 but it sadly felt very relevant. Today’s COVID pandemic will make this novel all the more poignant.
I liked the way the book was written from the POV of a woman. Mae, lives with her father, the village apothecary. She works with him and really wants him to accept her as his assistant but these are strange and dangerous times for women. Especially difficult times for those who know how to mix potions and medicines. She does study this however with the local midwife and wise woman. However, their knowledge of herbs and the more natural remedies is going to bring trouble to their doors.
As well as Eyam, we get to travel to the plague capital city of London. This brings the small and isolated village into stark contrast and it shows how the plague ravaged the streets, people’s lives and the entire country as a result. Those poor villagers, miles away, were never far from my mind.
The writing weaved in and around the puzzles and problems of the day and the pacing didn’t always flow as well as I would like. Mae as a main character was fascinating. The novel contained themes of medicines, witchery goings on and a great deal of darkness. How fascinating to find out about how an entire village tried to protect themselves from the unknown. Although the timing and POV jumped about a bit, by the end of the novel, when the entire story reveals itself, you’ll be pleased you read this book slowly and immersed yourself in a very fine historical fiction experience.
See the locations in this novel here: Enter The Hemlock Cure - the plague village
November 8, 2022
The Hemlock Cure is written from the point of view of Leah, Mae's elder and jealous sister. This is a ghost's perspective, one that shifts towards empathy and an awareness that Mae is in mortal danger from her apothecary father. Essentially, this is a novel that probes the plague in Eyam and the witch-finding cult in the C17 -- how women, who did not conform to sexual and gender norms, faced accusations of consorting with the Devil. Heavy material, but Burn writes with a lightness of touch that keeps the narrative alive. Mae is born with synaesthesia, like her mother, and she experiences the world as emotional colours. This ability marks her out, as does her desire to be an apothecary, to follow a male orientated occupation, and become her father's apprentice. Burn characterises Mae (and the other women in the book) with skill and explores the world of Eve with understanding. Mae's mother, Florence, horrifies her husband, Wulfric, by showing sexual desire, and revealing the seductive power of the serpent in the Garden of Eden. Sexual "deviance" echoes through two of the novel's sub-plots and this novel, in some ways, is an exploration of the C17 from a C21 outlook.
There are many threads to this novel. Most work. Some, however, seem underdeveloped. In her Acknowledgements Burn recognises Kaufmann's Black Tudors. Briefly, Mae's adolescent lover, Rafe, is referred to as a blackamoor but beyond that hint nothing much is made of his racial identity. It would seem that a reader, however, is meant to read Rafe as a young black male. Like dark Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights a question is raised.
The novel has been praised for its historical authenticity. Generally, this is justified, but there are some unfortunate errors. In one chapter, Mae finds her father sleeping and takes his book from him: Malleus Maleficarum no less, the infamous C15 century text, Hammer of the Witches. Mae reads some of the book, in English. This would have been impossible as the work was not translated into English in the C17. Burn refers to a number of books in her novel, works by Markham, Lavater, Ady, the scientific experiments of the Royal Scoiety, all of which would have been key texts in the C17. But there is another slip when Mae looks through her father's books and finds Dee's Relation of his Actions with Spirits No such book was in print. Dee's early work of skrying was discovered in manuscript during the years of this novel, but only came to academic light in 1672, after the close of The Hemlock Cure.
All in all, this is a well-plotted and evocative novel that returns to familiar ground with fresh eyes and clear imagination.
There are many threads to this novel. Most work. Some, however, seem underdeveloped. In her Acknowledgements Burn recognises Kaufmann's Black Tudors. Briefly, Mae's adolescent lover, Rafe, is referred to as a blackamoor but beyond that hint nothing much is made of his racial identity. It would seem that a reader, however, is meant to read Rafe as a young black male. Like dark Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights a question is raised.
The novel has been praised for its historical authenticity. Generally, this is justified, but there are some unfortunate errors. In one chapter, Mae finds her father sleeping and takes his book from him: Malleus Maleficarum no less, the infamous C15 century text, Hammer of the Witches. Mae reads some of the book, in English. This would have been impossible as the work was not translated into English in the C17. Burn refers to a number of books in her novel, works by Markham, Lavater, Ady, the scientific experiments of the Royal Scoiety, all of which would have been key texts in the C17. But there is another slip when Mae looks through her father's books and finds Dee's Relation of his Actions with Spirits No such book was in print. Dee's early work of skrying was discovered in manuscript during the years of this novel, but only came to academic light in 1672, after the close of The Hemlock Cure.
All in all, this is a well-plotted and evocative novel that returns to familiar ground with fresh eyes and clear imagination.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2021
What could have been just another book about how witches lived in the 17th century turned out to be quite satisfying.
"The Hemlock Cure" is based on actual events that took place in a small English village in 1666, during the Great Plague, when the village virtually quarantined itself in an attempt to stem the growing number of deaths from the plague. Mae lives with her father, the village apothecary, helping him to produce his medicines while hoping that he will finally accept her as his apprentice. At the same time, she studies with Isabel, the village midwife and "wise-woman" whose knowledge of herbs and natural remedies, has helped many women.
Isabel shares a mysterious history with Mae's father, and she lives in fear of what might befall Mae while living under his roof.
To reveal more would spoil a many-layered and multi-threaded plot, which at first seems a bit random, but which slowly builds into a glorious picture of life in a small village, and the trials and tribulations of those who practiced medicine in the middle ages. We also take a trip to London, where the sights and smells of the plague-ridden city are drawn to perfection. The book also examines the nature of family, relationships, and religion. There's also a neat twist, in the shape of the narrator of the story.
The book should appeal to fans of Michelle Paver and Stacey Halls, and readers of A Secret History of Witches by Louisa Morgan. Definitely worth a look.
"The Hemlock Cure" is based on actual events that took place in a small English village in 1666, during the Great Plague, when the village virtually quarantined itself in an attempt to stem the growing number of deaths from the plague. Mae lives with her father, the village apothecary, helping him to produce his medicines while hoping that he will finally accept her as his apprentice. At the same time, she studies with Isabel, the village midwife and "wise-woman" whose knowledge of herbs and natural remedies, has helped many women.
Isabel shares a mysterious history with Mae's father, and she lives in fear of what might befall Mae while living under his roof.
To reveal more would spoil a many-layered and multi-threaded plot, which at first seems a bit random, but which slowly builds into a glorious picture of life in a small village, and the trials and tribulations of those who practiced medicine in the middle ages. We also take a trip to London, where the sights and smells of the plague-ridden city are drawn to perfection. The book also examines the nature of family, relationships, and religion. There's also a neat twist, in the shape of the narrator of the story.
The book should appeal to fans of Michelle Paver and Stacey Halls, and readers of A Secret History of Witches by Louisa Morgan. Definitely worth a look.
October 2, 2023
Witchcraft and mystery. A great plot.
A few of the characters had obscure roles and concentration was needed.
A few of the characters had obscure roles and concentration was needed.
February 13, 2022
Mae lives alone with her father, the village pharmacist, in the English town of Eyam after her mother and sister Leah both died. Mae’s father Wulfric is strict and doesn’t know that his daughter is secretly visiting Isabel, the village midwife. Isabel was Mae’s mother’s best friend and does not trust Wulfric at all. She has even been branded a witch by him. And then the plague threatens to come to Eyam…
This book is set in 1655 – 1665 during the last major plague epidemic in England. There are three narrative perspectives. One during the epidemic, the diary of Wulfric and short flashbacks from the narrator, Leah.
While the premise really triggered my interest, I found the story a bit all over the place. Leah’s odd perspective had little added value and there are a lot of plot lines that are only slowly dealt with. By the middle of the book, it all feels blended into each other and you have no clue to where we’re going.
The story revolves around Mae and Isabel, two women with an interest in medicine and then the word witch is quickly outed in the 17th century. But we also get to know Isabel’s husband Johan’s backstory. He goes to London where he observes the consequences of the plague epidemic. And then there is Rafe, who lives with Isabel and Johan and whom Mae takes an interest in.
Burn has based her story on real historical events in the small town of Eyam. The villagers prevent an outbreak of the plague in the neighboring towns by a brave decision. The author adds a whole cast of fictional characters to this setting. Her writing style is certainly ok. But this is just a story that won’t stick. It lacked focus, emotion and originality. I feel that I’ve read this story before.
Too bad, because there were enough things to like in this story that could have been worked out better to create a gripping read. And that cover is just beautiful, I must admit that.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
Dutch review:
Mae woont nog alleen met haar vader, de dorpsapotheker, in het Engelse stadje Eyam nadat haar moeder en zusje Leah allebei zijn gestorven. Mae's vader Wulfric is streng en weet niet dat zijn dochter stiekem bezoekjes brengt aan Isabel, de vroedvrouw van het dorp. Isabel was de beste vriendin van Mae's moeder en vertrouwt Wulfric helemaal niet. Isabel is door hem zelfs al eens als heks bestempeld. En dan dreigt de pest naar Eyam te komen...
Dit boek speelt zich af in de jaren 1655 - 1665 tijdens de laatste grote pestepidemie in Engeland. Er zijn drie vertelperspectieven. Een tijdens de epidemie, het dagboek van Wulfric en korte stukjes vanuit de vertelster, Leah.
Hoewel dit boek qua premisse helemaal mijn ding zou moeten zijn vond ik het wat all over the place. Het rare perspectief van Leah had weinig meerwaarde en er zijn heel veel plotlijnen die slechts traag worden afgehandeld. Tegen het midden van het boek weet je nog altijd precies niets en dat was redelijk frustrerend.
Het draait rond Mae en Isabel, twee vrouwen met een interesse in geneeskunde en dan komt het woord heks dichtbij in de 17de eeuw. Maar we leren ook Isabel's man Johan zijn achtergrondverhaal kennen. Hij trekt naar Londen waar hij de gevolgen van de pestepidemie waarneemt. En dan heb je nog Rafe, die bij Isabel en Johan woont en waar Mae wel interesse in heeft.
Burn vertrekt vanuit de echte historische gebeurtenissen in het stadje Eyam. En voegt er een hele cast aan fictieve personages aan toe. Haar schrijfstijl is zeker ok. Maar dit is gewoon een verhaal dat niet gaat blijven plakken. Het miste focus, emotie en originaliteit.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar van dit boek in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
This book is set in 1655 – 1665 during the last major plague epidemic in England. There are three narrative perspectives. One during the epidemic, the diary of Wulfric and short flashbacks from the narrator, Leah.
While the premise really triggered my interest, I found the story a bit all over the place. Leah’s odd perspective had little added value and there are a lot of plot lines that are only slowly dealt with. By the middle of the book, it all feels blended into each other and you have no clue to where we’re going.
The story revolves around Mae and Isabel, two women with an interest in medicine and then the word witch is quickly outed in the 17th century. But we also get to know Isabel’s husband Johan’s backstory. He goes to London where he observes the consequences of the plague epidemic. And then there is Rafe, who lives with Isabel and Johan and whom Mae takes an interest in.
Burn has based her story on real historical events in the small town of Eyam. The villagers prevent an outbreak of the plague in the neighboring towns by a brave decision. The author adds a whole cast of fictional characters to this setting. Her writing style is certainly ok. But this is just a story that won’t stick. It lacked focus, emotion and originality. I feel that I’ve read this story before.
Too bad, because there were enough things to like in this story that could have been worked out better to create a gripping read. And that cover is just beautiful, I must admit that.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
Dutch review:
Mae woont nog alleen met haar vader, de dorpsapotheker, in het Engelse stadje Eyam nadat haar moeder en zusje Leah allebei zijn gestorven. Mae's vader Wulfric is streng en weet niet dat zijn dochter stiekem bezoekjes brengt aan Isabel, de vroedvrouw van het dorp. Isabel was de beste vriendin van Mae's moeder en vertrouwt Wulfric helemaal niet. Isabel is door hem zelfs al eens als heks bestempeld. En dan dreigt de pest naar Eyam te komen...
Dit boek speelt zich af in de jaren 1655 - 1665 tijdens de laatste grote pestepidemie in Engeland. Er zijn drie vertelperspectieven. Een tijdens de epidemie, het dagboek van Wulfric en korte stukjes vanuit de vertelster, Leah.
Hoewel dit boek qua premisse helemaal mijn ding zou moeten zijn vond ik het wat all over the place. Het rare perspectief van Leah had weinig meerwaarde en er zijn heel veel plotlijnen die slechts traag worden afgehandeld. Tegen het midden van het boek weet je nog altijd precies niets en dat was redelijk frustrerend.
Het draait rond Mae en Isabel, twee vrouwen met een interesse in geneeskunde en dan komt het woord heks dichtbij in de 17de eeuw. Maar we leren ook Isabel's man Johan zijn achtergrondverhaal kennen. Hij trekt naar Londen waar hij de gevolgen van de pestepidemie waarneemt. En dan heb je nog Rafe, die bij Isabel en Johan woont en waar Mae wel interesse in heeft.
Burn vertrekt vanuit de echte historische gebeurtenissen in het stadje Eyam. En voegt er een hele cast aan fictieve personages aan toe. Haar schrijfstijl is zeker ok. Maar dit is gewoon een verhaal dat niet gaat blijven plakken. Het miste focus, emotie en originaliteit.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar van dit boek in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
December 31, 2021
I have to say, this book really surpassed expectations. Set in Eyam, Derbyshire, in 1666, the story revolves around the village that decided to quarantine itself after fleas carrying bubonic plague were brought in on a bale of cloth from London. This is true - the village really did seal itself off for over a year, with 260 dying out of a population of 7 or 800 in that time. I really liked that the book was based around this historical event. A lot of the minor characters were people who really lived and died in that time which also appealed to my little inner history geek! And of course, the theme of self-isolation speaks to us all during these Covid times.
However, the story is mainly based around Mae and her pious but bullying village apothecary father, Wulfric. Mae has a talent for all things herbal and her ambition is to follow in her father's footsteps but he doesn't feel it's an appropriate role for a woman - there's a fine line between medicine and witchcraft! Mae is trapped in a life where she is abused by the superstitious Wulfric but as time goes on and she uncovers shocking family secrets, she makes plans for her future.
What stood out for me in The Hemlock Cure was the detail and amount of research which went into the book. From the history of Eyam, to the plants and their preparation used for drugs, to slightly more morbid details, like the bodies floating down the Thames as the boats crossing from side to side tried to dodge them! I liked that I felt that I connected with Mae and other characters in the book, they were accessible and normalised.
However, the story is mainly based around Mae and her pious but bullying village apothecary father, Wulfric. Mae has a talent for all things herbal and her ambition is to follow in her father's footsteps but he doesn't feel it's an appropriate role for a woman - there's a fine line between medicine and witchcraft! Mae is trapped in a life where she is abused by the superstitious Wulfric but as time goes on and she uncovers shocking family secrets, she makes plans for her future.
What stood out for me in The Hemlock Cure was the detail and amount of research which went into the book. From the history of Eyam, to the plants and their preparation used for drugs, to slightly more morbid details, like the bodies floating down the Thames as the boats crossing from side to side tried to dodge them! I liked that I felt that I connected with Mae and other characters in the book, they were accessible and normalised.
August 10, 2022
Many thanks to Netgalley and Little Brown for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I was unfamiliar with the story of Eyam prior to reading; plague era fiction isn't usually my go-to but I was drawn in by a pretty cover, and you know what? I wasn't disappointed.
We're sent back in time to 1665 just as The Great Plague is gripping the nation; Eyam decides to shut itself off from the rest of the country once they discover plague has already infiltrated it. Given the past couple of years in the present day, you can't help but relate to that!
But, our focus is upon Mae, the apothecary's daughter and Isabel, the local midwife who is teaching our young protagonist her craft. But pious, controlling Wulfric doesn't want his daughter associating with the midwife let alone befriending her. Wulfric blames Isabel for the loss of his wife and all but deems her a witch. Over the course of the novel we learn that Mae and Isabel have more to fear than just the plague.
What I enjoyed
- Isabel has to tread such a careful path between practicing midwifery and avoiding attention and this is done so well.
- What really captivated me about this was the fact that it's all told from the perspective of Leah, Mae's older, and long dead, sister. I cannot stress enough how well this was done. Leah's character, despite not being able to directly interact with any of the other characters, is so well thought out. She is flawed and sometimes really unlikeable, but altogether human.
- Wulfric terrified me; well done, Burn, well done.
- The pressure really amps up out of nowhere and made me want to read on quicker.
What was ok:
- It was a bit of a slow start for me. But that's just me, and I don't think that in itself should put you off reading. But for me personally I needed a bit more time with the first 50 pages.
All in all I really enjoyed The Hemlock Cure.
Will I reread? Yes. I really feel like this will be an autumn read for me - but perhaps post-pandemic next time.
I was unfamiliar with the story of Eyam prior to reading; plague era fiction isn't usually my go-to but I was drawn in by a pretty cover, and you know what? I wasn't disappointed.
We're sent back in time to 1665 just as The Great Plague is gripping the nation; Eyam decides to shut itself off from the rest of the country once they discover plague has already infiltrated it. Given the past couple of years in the present day, you can't help but relate to that!
But, our focus is upon Mae, the apothecary's daughter and Isabel, the local midwife who is teaching our young protagonist her craft. But pious, controlling Wulfric doesn't want his daughter associating with the midwife let alone befriending her. Wulfric blames Isabel for the loss of his wife and all but deems her a witch. Over the course of the novel we learn that Mae and Isabel have more to fear than just the plague.
What I enjoyed
- Isabel has to tread such a careful path between practicing midwifery and avoiding attention and this is done so well.
- What really captivated me about this was the fact that it's all told from the perspective of Leah, Mae's older, and long dead, sister. I cannot stress enough how well this was done. Leah's character, despite not being able to directly interact with any of the other characters, is so well thought out. She is flawed and sometimes really unlikeable, but altogether human.
- Wulfric terrified me; well done, Burn, well done.
- The pressure really amps up out of nowhere and made me want to read on quicker.
What was ok:
- It was a bit of a slow start for me. But that's just me, and I don't think that in itself should put you off reading. But for me personally I needed a bit more time with the first 50 pages.
All in all I really enjoyed The Hemlock Cure.
Will I reread? Yes. I really feel like this will be an autumn read for me - but perhaps post-pandemic next time.
September 12, 2021
The Hemlock Cure by Joanne Burn is an excellent and fascinating historical fiction that gives the reader a glimpse of what it would have been like to have been present in England during the plague of 1666. Truly engaging.
This is such a unique, intricate, complex, yet addictive novel. I don’t think I have read anything quite like it.
The author has taken her painstaking research and created a multi-layered narrative to take the reader into the village of Eyam during the all-encompassing plague of 1666. Here we get the glimpses of life for those involved within this sequestered village from an array of angles in the voice of a deceased girl. The reader delves into the lives at one point of a midwife, apothecary, those young and old, male and female. We see the dynamics of societal, gender, occupational, and religious relationships and ideals within these characters. We see the contraints, the double standards, the superstitions, the misconceptions, and the wrongs/rights of those that live within the village at this time. We can see how these inhabitants are treated by their family members and by one another. We also see how medicine, religion, and the supernatural all play a part in how the Black Death is perceived, understood, and treated.
There are twists and turns, developments, suspense, and a full character cast that all add together to make this novel one of a kind and truly immersive. I whole heartedly recommend this historical fiction that I truly enjoyed.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Little, Brown Book Group UK for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 2/10/22.
This is such a unique, intricate, complex, yet addictive novel. I don’t think I have read anything quite like it.
The author has taken her painstaking research and created a multi-layered narrative to take the reader into the village of Eyam during the all-encompassing plague of 1666. Here we get the glimpses of life for those involved within this sequestered village from an array of angles in the voice of a deceased girl. The reader delves into the lives at one point of a midwife, apothecary, those young and old, male and female. We see the dynamics of societal, gender, occupational, and religious relationships and ideals within these characters. We see the contraints, the double standards, the superstitions, the misconceptions, and the wrongs/rights of those that live within the village at this time. We can see how these inhabitants are treated by their family members and by one another. We also see how medicine, religion, and the supernatural all play a part in how the Black Death is perceived, understood, and treated.
There are twists and turns, developments, suspense, and a full character cast that all add together to make this novel one of a kind and truly immersive. I whole heartedly recommend this historical fiction that I truly enjoyed.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Little, Brown Book Group UK for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 2/10/22.
October 18, 2021
Set in the notorious plague town of Eyam, Joanne Burn’s novel The Hemlock Cure evokes the quiet horror of a village struck down with the Black Death.
The plot follows Mae as she endeavours to further her medical education under the cruel eye of her devoutly religious father. We follow the villagers of Eyam as they deal with the complexities the plague brings to their lives.
While much happens within these pages it’s a tense and slow burn with deep rooted history between the characters motivating their actions.
Interestingly, the novel is narrated by Mae’s sister who has passed away before the events of the novel. It is a fascinating narration choice and one I enjoyed in the moments when it was most relevant. I sometimes found myself forgetting this narration choice and remembering only when the writing specifically reminded me which was sometimes jarring. However, it doesn’t overshadow the novel and for some readers I think this will add depth to the narration.
Overall, I really enjoyed the atmosphere and characters in this novel.
The plot follows Mae as she endeavours to further her medical education under the cruel eye of her devoutly religious father. We follow the villagers of Eyam as they deal with the complexities the plague brings to their lives.
While much happens within these pages it’s a tense and slow burn with deep rooted history between the characters motivating their actions.
Interestingly, the novel is narrated by Mae’s sister who has passed away before the events of the novel. It is a fascinating narration choice and one I enjoyed in the moments when it was most relevant. I sometimes found myself forgetting this narration choice and remembering only when the writing specifically reminded me which was sometimes jarring. However, it doesn’t overshadow the novel and for some readers I think this will add depth to the narration.
Overall, I really enjoyed the atmosphere and characters in this novel.
March 10, 2022
⭐️ 3 ⭐️
The Hemlock Cure is a good, solid read.
Beautifully written by Joanne Burn, the characters are realistic and well-rounded (some more likeable than others). I found the setting and history of Eyam particularly interesting.
Overall, I thought it was a little slow-paced, and I didn’t really connect with any of the characters but still found it an enjoyable, entertaining read.
Many thanks to the publisher for the copy, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
The Hemlock Cure is a good, solid read.
Beautifully written by Joanne Burn, the characters are realistic and well-rounded (some more likeable than others). I found the setting and history of Eyam particularly interesting.
Overall, I thought it was a little slow-paced, and I didn’t really connect with any of the characters but still found it an enjoyable, entertaining read.
Many thanks to the publisher for the copy, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
January 17, 2022
When the plague hits their village, Mae's father, the apothecary becomes more powerful. Mae tries to be helpful, but despite her keen intellect, she is limited by her gender.
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows several residents from an English village, during the Great Plague.
We get to follow Wulfric, Mae's father, and the village apothecary. He is a pious man, and believes only sinners will get ill; but still becomes an influential figure to the village; the only one who can slow the plague.
Isabel is the village midwife. She has known Mae since she was born; and after her mother dies, and her father ignores her; Isabel steps in to be a parental figure. She knows that Mae is smart and encourages her learning herblore and healing.
Johan is Isabel's husband, and has to travel to London when his ward's missing mother has been discovered. He risks going to the capital, to support his close friend.
Mae's story is actually narrated by Leah - Mae's deceased older sister.
In hindsight, I thought it helped add her understanding of what really happens. But I mostly found it awkward, confusing and unnecessary.
I liked the historical accuracy and the in-depth knowledge of herblore and healing at the time, which the story expressed with some passion.
It also focusses on the tensions that have been created by the plague. The distrust, and the sense of hopelessness. Not sure if or how you should help your neighbours.
People are looking for answers. It's also a time with great political and religious unrest; not to mention what they consider the real threat of witches.
It's so easy for characters like Wulfric to be on their pedestal, praised for their work; and never looking too close at his own sins.
Unfortunately, I found this book very boring. Nothing happens in the plot, and because of ghost-Leah's narration, all of the characters are held at a distance, and I never felt connected to any of them; and they could not carry the story through the many lulls.
I also wish some of the storylines were cut - especially Johan's. It added nothing to the book, except page length. It didn't offer any world-building, any interesting plotline, or character development.
This was 2.5 out of 5 for me.
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows several residents from an English village, during the Great Plague.
We get to follow Wulfric, Mae's father, and the village apothecary. He is a pious man, and believes only sinners will get ill; but still becomes an influential figure to the village; the only one who can slow the plague.
Isabel is the village midwife. She has known Mae since she was born; and after her mother dies, and her father ignores her; Isabel steps in to be a parental figure. She knows that Mae is smart and encourages her learning herblore and healing.
Johan is Isabel's husband, and has to travel to London when his ward's missing mother has been discovered. He risks going to the capital, to support his close friend.
Mae's story is actually narrated by Leah - Mae's deceased older sister.
In hindsight, I thought it helped add her understanding of what really happens. But I mostly found it awkward, confusing and unnecessary.
I liked the historical accuracy and the in-depth knowledge of herblore and healing at the time, which the story expressed with some passion.
It also focusses on the tensions that have been created by the plague. The distrust, and the sense of hopelessness. Not sure if or how you should help your neighbours.
People are looking for answers. It's also a time with great political and religious unrest; not to mention what they consider the real threat of witches.
It's so easy for characters like Wulfric to be on their pedestal, praised for their work; and never looking too close at his own sins.
Unfortunately, I found this book very boring. Nothing happens in the plot, and because of ghost-Leah's narration, all of the characters are held at a distance, and I never felt connected to any of them; and they could not carry the story through the many lulls.
I also wish some of the storylines were cut - especially Johan's. It added nothing to the book, except page length. It didn't offer any world-building, any interesting plotline, or character development.
This was 2.5 out of 5 for me.
February 16, 2022
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Little Brown Book Group for approving me for an ARC of this book. I read this with my fellow Tsundoku Squad member, Wendy. As lovers of historical fiction we were very intrigued by this one and couldn’t wait to buddy read it together.
I really liked the layout of this story. We had the main chapters which followed Mae and her story but interspersed were entries from Wulfric’s diary as well as Leah, Mae’s older sister. These diary entries gave not only insight into Wulfric’s state of mind but the events that lead up to both Leah and her mother’s death.
During the story we are also introduced to Isabel, the local midwife who feels a strong attachment to Mae. As Isabel was Mae’s mothers friend she too feels protective of her and is constantly worried for her safety. As a woman in the 1600’s though there is little she can do without causing too much distress on her own family. I adored the relationship between these two women and it was my favourite part of the story.
I could not help but feel for Mae throughout the story. I was constantly worried what was going to happen to her and did not trust her father at all. At points I was almost scared to read on for fear of Mae’s life! This was a slow burning read where all the small events lead up to a dramatic finale. I kept hoping and praying that Mae would finally be free of that dreadful home but I hadn’t quite imagined events to unfold as they did.
Seeped in history this is a story that is full of mystery, tension and hope. Perfect for any historical fans that lovely a little apothecary and witchcraft thrown in!
I really liked the layout of this story. We had the main chapters which followed Mae and her story but interspersed were entries from Wulfric’s diary as well as Leah, Mae’s older sister. These diary entries gave not only insight into Wulfric’s state of mind but the events that lead up to both Leah and her mother’s death.
During the story we are also introduced to Isabel, the local midwife who feels a strong attachment to Mae. As Isabel was Mae’s mothers friend she too feels protective of her and is constantly worried for her safety. As a woman in the 1600’s though there is little she can do without causing too much distress on her own family. I adored the relationship between these two women and it was my favourite part of the story.
I could not help but feel for Mae throughout the story. I was constantly worried what was going to happen to her and did not trust her father at all. At points I was almost scared to read on for fear of Mae’s life! This was a slow burning read where all the small events lead up to a dramatic finale. I kept hoping and praying that Mae would finally be free of that dreadful home but I hadn’t quite imagined events to unfold as they did.
Seeped in history this is a story that is full of mystery, tension and hope. Perfect for any historical fans that lovely a little apothecary and witchcraft thrown in!
December 12, 2021
I tried so hard to get into this but I just wasn't feeling it. The premise was promising and I was more than convinced this book was going to break me out of the reading slump I've been getting into lately. I'm not exactly sure what aspect of the story threw me off my game but it was definitely not the writing. It was beautiful and flowy but not gritty enough to keep me on the edge of my seat. Strong historical elements were infused into the plot which I usually do enjoy but I couldn't bring myself to even stand it.
April 11, 2022
Very enjoyable. If you like historical fiction based loosely on true events then you will enjoy this. Lost a star because I found it a bit dull and plodding in places but overall I would recommend it.
October 26, 2023
Highly recommended....The writing is first class and immediately transports you to the 17th century...A sense of doom permeates this book as you slowly turn the plague ridden pages within...its a slow burn but i loved every Hellish minute...a great big 5 stars 🌟.
June 8, 2023
Baseado em factos reais, a história que nos é contada em “A Cura da Cicuta” é passada na vila de Eyam, entre 1665 e 1666 (período em que Inglaterra se debatia com a peste negra). Também Eyam passará por um período de quarentena com o objetivo de minimizar as consequências da peste.
É com este pano de fundo, num período histórico extremamente supersticioso e intolerante, onde as mulheres portadoras de qualquer conhecimento (medicinal ou botânico) eram consideradas bruxas, que se desenrolam os acontecimentos deste romance. O foco desta narração é história de 4 mulheres destemidas, que não se deixam prender pelas convenções do período em que vivem.
Este é um livro maravilhoso para quem gosta de ficção histórica. Depois de quase 1 mês a ler livros sem gostar propriamente de nenhum, “A Cura da Cicuta” conseguiu tirar-me de uma ressaca literária.
É com este pano de fundo, num período histórico extremamente supersticioso e intolerante, onde as mulheres portadoras de qualquer conhecimento (medicinal ou botânico) eram consideradas bruxas, que se desenrolam os acontecimentos deste romance. O foco desta narração é história de 4 mulheres destemidas, que não se deixam prender pelas convenções do período em que vivem.
Este é um livro maravilhoso para quem gosta de ficção histórica. Depois de quase 1 mês a ler livros sem gostar propriamente de nenhum, “A Cura da Cicuta” conseguiu tirar-me de uma ressaca literária.
March 12, 2023
I was honestly less than impressed with this novel, and I think three stars is being generous. There was nothing wrong with the writing, and I enjoyed the numerous descriptions of plants, herbs, and remedies from the time period. But the plot was...lacking.
Basically, it's the story of Mae, the daughter of an apothecary in a small English village during the plague in the 1600s. She desperately wants to be his apprentice, but he thinks otherwise. It is also the story of Isabel, a village midwife, and her husband Johan. There were also parts told from the perspective of Leah, Mae's sister who was .
I can't say that any of the characters felt unique, and that was probably one of my biggest problems with it. The subject matter was similarly mediocre. 'The plague, the church, village herbal women fight the patriarchy' has been done to death, and there wasn't much that made this exploration of those topics unique. Furthermore, the pacing was unnecessarily ponderous, and I spent much of this novel wondering when something was finally going to happen. Sure, it's basically Mae's coming of age story, but I wasn't interested in her at all, so I was pretty bored throughout.
I love a good poisoning, and seeing the diary entries of Wulfric, the religiously psychotic apothecary, was pretty cool, but...eh. This book wasn't the best.
Basically, it's the story of Mae, the daughter of an apothecary in a small English village during the plague in the 1600s. She desperately wants to be his apprentice, but he thinks otherwise. It is also the story of Isabel, a village midwife, and her husband Johan. There were also parts told from the perspective of Leah, Mae's sister who was .
I can't say that any of the characters felt unique, and that was probably one of my biggest problems with it. The subject matter was similarly mediocre. 'The plague, the church, village herbal women fight the patriarchy' has been done to death, and there wasn't much that made this exploration of those topics unique. Furthermore, the pacing was unnecessarily ponderous, and I spent much of this novel wondering when something was finally going to happen. Sure, it's basically Mae's coming of age story, but I wasn't interested in her at all, so I was pretty bored throughout.
I love a good poisoning, and seeing the diary entries of Wulfric, the religiously psychotic apothecary, was pretty cool, but...eh. This book wasn't the best.
May 28, 2023
Vejam a minha opinião em vídeo, AQUI.
October 12, 2024
4.5* rounded up
February 16, 2022
An interesting history of apothecary and witchcraft interspersed with family loyalty and friendship. I really enjoyed the relationship between Mae and Isabel - they had such a connection from the time of Mae’s birth and I loved how they supported eachother. The relationship between Mae and her father was more difficult to read about though - his thoughts on women generally, including his daughter, were harsh and controlling.
This was a slow burn of a read which ramped up completely in the final third - a must for all historical fiction fans.
This was a slow burn of a read which ramped up completely in the final third - a must for all historical fiction fans.
February 23, 2022
4.5
A fantastic historical novel centred on the village of Eyam that found itself at the heart of a plague crisis. This forms a brilliant background for this tale adding to the tension but not centred on the plague itself but family, friendship & the fine line between apothecary, midwifery & witchcraft.
Beautifully written & character driven I particularly loved the female relationships that run through the book & the focus on family not necessarily being blood but those you love & care for. Leah's narration & Wulfric's diary entries are a great way to allow the reader more of an oversight of the whole picture. Mae & Isabel really shone through for me.
The research that Joanne Burn has put into The Hemlock Cure is really apparent & cleverly woven into the story, it flows and adds to the picture rather than lectures as can sometimes be the case when dealing with historical fiction. I put off reading this for a few weeks as I had an essay due on the plague & didn't want this to influence it but actually everything I studied appeared here in some form & made me smile as I recognised so much of the detail.
A fantastic historical novel centred on the village of Eyam that found itself at the heart of a plague crisis. This forms a brilliant background for this tale adding to the tension but not centred on the plague itself but family, friendship & the fine line between apothecary, midwifery & witchcraft.
Beautifully written & character driven I particularly loved the female relationships that run through the book & the focus on family not necessarily being blood but those you love & care for. Leah's narration & Wulfric's diary entries are a great way to allow the reader more of an oversight of the whole picture. Mae & Isabel really shone through for me.
The research that Joanne Burn has put into The Hemlock Cure is really apparent & cleverly woven into the story, it flows and adds to the picture rather than lectures as can sometimes be the case when dealing with historical fiction. I put off reading this for a few weeks as I had an essay due on the plague & didn't want this to influence it but actually everything I studied appeared here in some form & made me smile as I recognised so much of the detail.
October 12, 2021
This book has me on the fence. I really enjoyed the story, it’s set in England in the 1600’s when the Plague is running rampant. The story is intriguing and there’s a focus on religion, and the superstitions it brings with it. The characters were all well written and thought out.
But the story progressed really slowly and I felt my attention waning throughout. The other issue for me was the timehop that was sometimes a little confusing.
For me it didn’t hold my attention like I was hoping it would but I enjoyed it for what it was, a good historical fiction.
Thankyou to Netgalley & the publishers for this ARC
But the story progressed really slowly and I felt my attention waning throughout. The other issue for me was the timehop that was sometimes a little confusing.
For me it didn’t hold my attention like I was hoping it would but I enjoyed it for what it was, a good historical fiction.
Thankyou to Netgalley & the publishers for this ARC
January 8, 2022
This is really quite a dark book set in 1666 during the plague. It is based predominantly in the village of Eyam which locked itself down for the safety of other towns and villages in the area. This book is a beautifully written historical novel that doesn’t just focus on the plague but also has folklore, and witchcraft at its heart and depicts the era vividly. It would feel wrong to say that I enjoyed this book as it has some very dark parts which you know are historically accurate but that doesn’t stop it from being a really good read, it is definitely a poignant read that will make you think about times past and present which is what any good historical novel should do.
January 2, 2024
A darkish historical fiction novel with an interesting narrative style. It also reminded me of Juniper & Thorn if you were to replace the cannibalism with religious perversity and a sprinkle of witchcraft.
February 2, 2022
MY REVIEW
This book deserves to be a bestseller this year.
Where do I start to review such a brilliant book which has been so meticulously researched?
Well, it is set at the time of The Plague. Although a small part of the story moves to London, and we are given a vivid description of life in London during the plague, it is mostly centred on the village of Eyam. This is the village well known for bravely quarantining itself following an outbreak of plague there, in order to prevent the plague spreading. Around a third of the residents died from the plague.
Most of the secondary characters are based on actual people who lived there at the time, but for artistic licence the author has based the main storyline around fictitious characters.
Mae is just reaching puberty, but she is having to hide the signs from her father as she knows he will not be happy and she will no doubt be in for another beating if he finds out. She has tried to be the best daughter she can, running the home following the deaths of her mother and sister but he is never happy. Her father is the village’s apothecary and highly regarded but not many know what sort of a man he really is. He has done some terrible things in his life but he is a very strong believer in God, and in his twisted mind he believes he is following God’s signs. Mae was hoping to follow in her father’s footsteps, even trying to teach herself new apothecary skills but she is devastated Em when her father takes on young Sam as his trainee.
After a particularly nasty beating Mae decided she needs to escape from her father’s clutches but with the doors constantly locked and the key around his neck, then the quarantine of the village because of the plague, her options are few and escape is looking unlikely.
I was hoping so much that Mae would make it through the plague and away from her father and I have whizzed through the last chapters as I had to know the end. Of course I can’t tell you but you will find out when you read the book.
Go order it now if you are a fan of historical fiction. It really is a must read! And also THAT COVER!! Stunning!
Thank you so much Millie at Little Brown for sending me a gorgeous finished copy of the book to review.
This book deserves to be a bestseller this year.
Where do I start to review such a brilliant book which has been so meticulously researched?
Well, it is set at the time of The Plague. Although a small part of the story moves to London, and we are given a vivid description of life in London during the plague, it is mostly centred on the village of Eyam. This is the village well known for bravely quarantining itself following an outbreak of plague there, in order to prevent the plague spreading. Around a third of the residents died from the plague.
Most of the secondary characters are based on actual people who lived there at the time, but for artistic licence the author has based the main storyline around fictitious characters.
Mae is just reaching puberty, but she is having to hide the signs from her father as she knows he will not be happy and she will no doubt be in for another beating if he finds out. She has tried to be the best daughter she can, running the home following the deaths of her mother and sister but he is never happy. Her father is the village’s apothecary and highly regarded but not many know what sort of a man he really is. He has done some terrible things in his life but he is a very strong believer in God, and in his twisted mind he believes he is following God’s signs. Mae was hoping to follow in her father’s footsteps, even trying to teach herself new apothecary skills but she is devastated Em when her father takes on young Sam as his trainee.
After a particularly nasty beating Mae decided she needs to escape from her father’s clutches but with the doors constantly locked and the key around his neck, then the quarantine of the village because of the plague, her options are few and escape is looking unlikely.
I was hoping so much that Mae would make it through the plague and away from her father and I have whizzed through the last chapters as I had to know the end. Of course I can’t tell you but you will find out when you read the book.
Go order it now if you are a fan of historical fiction. It really is a must read! And also THAT COVER!! Stunning!
Thank you so much Millie at Little Brown for sending me a gorgeous finished copy of the book to review.
February 23, 2022
4.5 stars
A dark and compelling read.
This book is based on the true events of The Great Plague of 1665-1666. It's set in the city of Eyam where they quarantined themselves to prevent further spread of the disease. The main characters are purely fictional, however, there are some side characters based on real people too.
This book will hook you in and not let you go until you are done. It's dark and suspenseful and eery; the atmosphere created in this book is like none other. The book is paced in a beautiful way with the story unravelling so satisfyingly. There was not a moment while reading that I was bored. The characters are mysterious and intriguing. This author did an excellent job of keeping the reader interested. The way the POV of Mae was written was also very unique. I loved the use of diary entries and past memories to help slowly unwind the story. I could not have predicted where the story would go in the end, and finally finding out what the title meant was extremely gratifying.
All in all, it was a very satisfying read and I commend the author for this amazing piece of work.
Surrounded now by so many broken wings, who is to carry me?
A dark and compelling read.
This book is based on the true events of The Great Plague of 1665-1666. It's set in the city of Eyam where they quarantined themselves to prevent further spread of the disease. The main characters are purely fictional, however, there are some side characters based on real people too.
This book will hook you in and not let you go until you are done. It's dark and suspenseful and eery; the atmosphere created in this book is like none other. The book is paced in a beautiful way with the story unravelling so satisfyingly. There was not a moment while reading that I was bored. The characters are mysterious and intriguing. This author did an excellent job of keeping the reader interested. The way the POV of Mae was written was also very unique. I loved the use of diary entries and past memories to help slowly unwind the story. I could not have predicted where the story would go in the end, and finally finding out what the title meant was extremely gratifying.
All in all, it was a very satisfying read and I commend the author for this amazing piece of work.
February 15, 2022
This was a joy of a read. 1666 Mae lives with her religious zealot father following the deaths of her mother and sister. She finds comfort in Elizabeth the lady of the local manor and Isabel the mid-wife who were her mother's closest friends. She learns about healing potions from the women and about life. But when plague comes to Eyam her father's religious intolerance grows worse, his lust for her begins to grow and the elders of the village take the decision to put it under quarantine. In this hot-house atmosphere Mae knows she must plan her escape. An ode to the power of female friendships this was a wonderful read.
February 10, 2022
"The Hemlock Cure" by Joanne Burn is just brilliant. I really enjoyed the story, the characters and the way the story unfolded. It can be a bit grim writing about the plague, in particular about Eyam, the village that shut itself off from the outside world to prevent the plague spreading to the surrounding areas. However the characters were really engaging and Joanne Burn brought the village and its inhabitants to life.
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