A review by sarahgabriellereads
A Poisoner's Tale by Cathryn Kemp

challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

In a world filled with abusive husbands, fathers and brothers, the only way out is death, but not for the women. 

Through her mother’s teachings, Giulia, her daughter and her three closest friends dedicate their lives to helping and saving the women of their city in 17th century Rome from the dangerous hands of those they cannot escape. As the men grow more and more suspicious, Giulia continues to aid the women covered in bruises and blood escape their situations under the guise of being a simple herbalist and healer. In doing so, she brings the attention of Pope Alessandro VII and the Inquisitori to herself and her sisterhood.

Giulia’s courage and fortitude during times of grief, doubt and fear showed the strength of her character and the lengths she was willing to go to do what she felt was right for the women around her. Even though I don’t know her, I felt proud of her for all she did despite all that was stacked against her. 

Having Pope Alessandro VII’s point of view intertwined throughout the story made for a fascinating look into two polar opposite ideologies existing together in Rome. Amongst other things, it angered me greatly that he used the Catholic Church as a justification to call for the murder of the five women, yet also used his power to keep higher family names out of his investigation to protect them. 

This is a historical gothic thriller laced with feminine rage that you don’t want to miss.

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