The potential was enormous. The result was disappointing. Set in 1810(ish)Lilly, the daughter of an apothecary, finds herself a) looking for her missing mother; b) looking for a suitable suitor; and c) looking after her father and brother. Looking, seems to be what her life is all about - that and not seeing what it right in front of her. Like the fact that (Spoil alert!)her best friend is also her half-sister. It's clear that women are not accepted in the apothecary field - so what else is new in 1810? - but Lilly seems to have no choice but to be one. For the most part she is admired for her abilities, but only when it is convenient. When it is not... well, she meekly apologizes and prays that nothing bad will come of it. She continues to do what she does, but she never fights for her right to do it. The story is predictable and weak. While well written, it falls short of the aforementioned enormous potential. What is interesting, however, is the way in which apothecaries, doctors and surgeons are viewed by the people they serve and how they view each other. The juggling for position between these professions/trades is intriguing. How women fit into it all was sadly both a focus and completely ignored.