Reviews tagging 'Pandemic/Epidemic'

The Royal Art of Poison: Filthy Palaces, Fatal Cosmetics, Deadly Medicine, and Murder Most Foul by Eleanor Herman

2 reviews

freyacat's review against another edition

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dark informative medium-paced

3.0

This book is gross - fascinating, informative, but gross. The author does an excellent job bringing to life a variety of historical figures who may, or may not, have been poisoned. She describes in explicit details the living conditions and medical practices of the Medieval period. These conditions and practices are disgusting. So if you have a sensitive stomach, this may not be the book for you. 
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kecresser's review against another edition

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adventurous dark funny informative mysterious reflective medium-paced

5.0

Love, love, LOVE this author! This the second book by Eleanor Herman I've read and she just has a great way of explaining history that makes it accessible and entertaining. I knew next to nothing about poison before starting this book, and I think the author does a great job of explaining the landscape of poisoning (both intentional and unintentional) in medieval and renaissance Europe before jumping into the case studies. I had no idea life back then was so hazardous and gross, even for the ultra wealthy and noble. There are also small bits of humor throughout the book like keeps things light. I highly enjoyed this book and will definitely be seeking out other books by this author. 
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