Books matching: herbal remedies
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- #1
Save:A lovely and immersive slow-burn historical with interesting characters and period details - best enjoyed by those who like thoughtful journeys and a strong sense of time and place.
The Apothecary's Daughter by Julie Klassen is a historical fiction novel that follows the life of Lillian Haswell, the daughter of an apothecary. Lillian, who has been helping her father in his shop since her mother's sudden departure, longs for more than just the confines of an apothecary's store. The book delves into Lillian's quest to find her missing mother, her struggles as a woman in a male-dominated society, and her journey to balance duty and desire. Set in Regency times, the story also explores the challenges faced by women, the conflict between different medical professionals, and the societal norms of the era.
Knowing she faced a long day indoors, Lilly Haswell arose early to take in the crisp, fragrant air of a Wiltshire autumn morning. With a quiet greeting to Mrs. Fowler, already busy at the stove, Lilly...January 2008•416 pages - #2
Save:Atmospheric and comforting, "Monk's Hood" delivers a medieval mystery with heart, history, and an endearing sleuth - perfect for readers who love character and context as much as the crime itself.
In the book "Monk's Hood" by Ellis Peters, the story follows Brother Cadfael, a monk in charge of herbal remedies at the Abbey, as he investigates a murder where a poison from his own laboratory is used. The plot unfolds in a medieval setting, intertwining themes of love, betrayal, and intricate relationships among the characters. The narrative is filled with mystery, intrigue, and the humane and charitable investigative methods of Brother Cadfael, creating a satisfying whodunnit with a backdrop in the Middle Ages.
The book showcases Ellis Peters' skill in weaving murder and intrigue into the medieval culture and customs, presenting a well-researched and historically accurate depiction of life in the 1100s England. The character of Brother Cadfael is explored in depth, revealing his past experiences and relationships, adding layers to his personality as a protagonist who navigates through complex investigations and moral dilemmas with intelligence and gentleness.
ONTHISPARTICULARMORNINGATTHE beginning of December, in the year 1138, Brother Cadfael came to chapter in tranquillity of mind, prepared to be tolerant even towards the dull, pedestrian reading of Brot...1980•270 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Chronicles of Brother Cadfael ) - #3
Save:A richly atmospheric, magical feminist tale set in 1880s NYC - perfect for lovers of historical fantasy and stories about powerful women, as long as you don't mind a leisurely pace and lingering threads.
Set in 1880s New York City, "The Witches of New York" by Ami McKay follows the story of three women - Eleanor, Adelaide, and Beatrice - who run a tea shop and herbal apothecary. The narrative intertwines themes of magic, witchcraft, herbalism, and spiritualism as the characters navigate their abilities and encounter ghosts and spirits. The book delves into the histories of these women, exploring their individual journeys and the challenges they face in a society that views them as witches. Despite some pacing issues and the introduction of multiple perspectives, the story gradually gains momentum, weaving together a tale of empowerment and sisterhood in a magical setting.
In the cellar of a modest house on the edge of the Tenderloin, a weary housekeeper lit a candle and said a prayer. Taper in one hand, glass jar in the other, she poured wax around the edge of the jar’...2014•562 pages - #4
Save:A beautifully written, quietly magical story with a unique hero, "The Real Boy" is perfect for thoughtful readers who like character-driven fantasy and stories about finding your voice - even when the world feels confusing.
In the book 'The Real Boy' by Anne Ursu, readers are introduced to Oscar, a young boy who works as a Hand for the powerful magician Caleb in the protected city of Asteri. When mysterious events start to unfold, Oscar teams up with a new friend, Callie, to unravel the mysteries surrounding the city. The story is filled with magic, friendship, and unexpected twists, making it an engaging and well-written fantasy novel that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
Oscar, who is depicted as being on the autism spectrum, faces challenges in understanding social cues and interacting with others. Despite his struggles, he forms a strong bond with Callie and must use his unique skills to help solve the problems affecting the city. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery, bravery, and the power of friendship, culminating in a satisfying and unexpected ending that showcases the true essence of magic.
The residents of the gleaming hilltop town of Asteri called their home, simply, the City. The residents of the Barrow—the tangle of forest and darkness that encircled the bottom of Asteri’s hill like...September 2013•351 pages - #5
Save:A beautifully written, haunting family saga set in rural Appalachia - raw, poetic, and unforgettable, but best for those who can handle its gritty realism and layered narrative structure.
Bloodroot by Amy Greene is a dark and haunting story set in the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee. The narrative follows the life of Myra Lamb, a young girl with mysterious abilities, as she navigates through the challenges of her family's legacy and the harsh realities of her environment. The plot unfolds through multiple generations, exploring themes of family dynamics, magic, tragedy, and redemption. The writing style is rich, evocative, and multi-perspective, providing a deep insight into the characters' lives and the Appalachian region.
Myra looks like her mama, but prettier because of her daddy mixed in. She got just the right amount of both. The best thing about Myra’s daddy was his eyes, blue as the sky. They’d pierce right throug...December 2009•355 pages - #6
Save:A smart, unsettling, and conversation-worthy look at an America where reproductive rights are rolled back - more about inner lives and social roles than fast-paced plot. Worth a try for those interested in feminist or near-future fiction, but the writing style may not be for everyone.
In the near future America depicted in 'Red Clocks' by Leni Zumas, the Personhood Amendment has granted legal rights to unborn embryos, outlawing abortion and IVF, while the Every Child Needs Two Act prevents unmarried people from adopting. The novel follows the lives of five women, each navigating the harsh realities of a society where draconian laws have been passed, leading to a complex web of struggles and connections among them. The writing style is described as artfully choppy and stylized, with distinct voices for each character, creating a dark, dreamy, and beautiful narrative that reimagines a United States where abortion is once again illegal and criminalized.
In a room for women whose bodies are broken, Eivør Mínervudottír’s biographer waits her turn. She wears sweatpants, is white skinned and freckle cheeked, not young, not old. Before she is called to cl...January 2018•391 pages Short, sharp, and still relevant - this is a feminist classic that packs a punch and will get you thinking, even if it’s more of a conversation starter than a comprehensive history.
'Witches, Midwives, and Nurses: A History of Women Healers' by Barbara Ehrenreich delves into the historical evolution of women healers and the transition of their roles in the medical profession. Through the lens of feminism, the book explores the gender dynamics within the healthcare system, shedding light on the oppression and marginalization faced by female healers throughout history. It discusses how traditional healers were discredited and persecuted by male doctors, leading to the dominance of men in the field of medicine.
Ehrenreich's writing style in 'Witches, Midwives, and Nurses' is described as thought-provoking and enlightening, offering a critical analysis of the intertwining of gender, power, and healthcare. provides a historical perspective on the struggles faced by women in the medical profession, highlighting the societal norms and biases that have shaped the healthcare landscape. Readers found the book to be a quick yet impactful read, raising important questions about the roles of women in healthcare and the challenges they have encountered over the years.
1970•76 pages- #8
Save:A beautifully written, immersive, and hauntingly sad tale of Irish superstition, grief, and belief - gorgeously crafted but definitely not a cheerful read.
'The Good People' by Hannah Kent is a historical novel set in 1820s Ireland, following the story of Nora, a widow left to care for her disabled grandson Michael. Nora seeks the help of a local wise woman, Nance, to rid Michael of what she believes is a changeling. The book delves into the superstitions, folklore, and struggles of the villagers, highlighting the clash between paganism and religion during that time. Kent's writing style intricately weaves together themes of society, psychology, religion, and relationships, portraying the characters' humanity amidst a backdrop of hardship and ignorance.
Nóra’s first thought when they brought her the body was that it could not be her husband’s. For one long moment she stared at the men bearing Martin’s weight on their sweating shoulders, standing in t...2016•400 pages - #9
Save:A beautifully written, slow-burning historical novel that gives voice to real women caught in the Pendle witch trials. Heartbreaking, atmospheric, and memorable - perfect for fans of rich, character-driven stories.
'Daughters of the Witching Hill' by Mary Sharratt is a historical fiction novel set in Pendle Forest, England, during the time of the Pendle witch trials. The story follows the lives of cunning women and supposed witches living in poverty, using herbal remedies and folk magic to help their neighbors. The narrative is rich in historical detail, exploring the social circumstances of the time, religious persecution, and the fear and suspicion that led to the witch trials. The book is narrated through the eyes of Bess Southerns, known as Mother Demdike, and her granddaughter Alizon Device, providing a multi-generational perspective on the events unfolding in the community.
SEE US GATHERED HERE, three women stood at Richard Baldwin's gate. I bide with my daughter, Liza of the squint-eye, and with my granddaughter, Alizon, just fifteen and dazzling as the noontide sun, so...April 2010•352 pages - #10
Save:A gripping, raw, and inspiring memoir about breaking free from family bonds and forging your own path through education. Worth the hype, just be prepared for some emotional turbulence along the way.
Educated by Tara Westover is a memoir recounting the author's tumultuous childhood growing up in Idaho in a dysfunctional family. Tara's father, a strict Mormon and anti-government supporter, forbids her from attending school, leading her to work in the family's scrap yard instead. Despite the isolation and abuse she faces at home, Tara eventually breaks free and pursues education, earning scholarships and grants to study at prestigious universities like Cambridge and Harvard. The book delves into themes of familial dysfunction, survivalism, mental illness, and the transformative power of education.
My strongest memory is not a memory. It’s something I imagined, then came to remember as if it had happened. The memory was formed when I was five, just before I turned six, from a story my father tol...February 2018•370 pages
