I am by no means a historical fiction person. That being said, this book was quite interesting. It took me a lot longer than it usually does to get through it, probably due to the historical nature of it slowing me down. The best part about this book is by far the relationships and exploration of the women in it— all of the main characters greatly impacted by the lechery of men, and finding female friendship and companionship to be the way back to themselves. 

The book is very well written and clearly well researched. I think learning about natural poisons is fascinating, because they’re something you hear so much about in classic murder mysteries, but are never really explored in (my) everyday life. The explanation of the primary ones mentioned at the end of the book was really helpful, and I also really want to try the tea and cookie recipes listed back there, as well. 

I can’t say I’ll read this again anytime soon, but it’ll certainly stay in my mind for a long time— and not at all in a negative way. This book, almost more than others I’ve read lately, makes me want to write about powerful and complex women and their adventures. I can’t not take that gift with me.