The Apothecary Rose

Owen Archer Series, Book 1

By: Candace Robb

Narrated by: Derek Perkins

In the year of our Lord 1363, two suspicious deaths in the infirmary of St. Mary's Abbey catch the attention of the powerful John Thoresby, Lord Chancellor of England and Archbishop of York. One victim is a pilgrim, while the second is Thoresby's ne'er-do-well ward, both apparently poisoned by a physic supplied by Master Apothecary Nicholas Wilton. In the wake of these deaths, the archbishop dispatches one-eyed spy Owen Archer to York to find the murderer. Under the guise of a disillusioned soldier keen to make a fresh start, Owen insinuates himself into Wilton's apothecary as an apprentice. But he finds Wilton bedridden, with the shop being run by his lovely, enigmatic young wife, Lucie. As Owen unravels a tangled history of scandal and tragedy, he discovers at its center a desperate, forbidden love twisted over time into obsession. And the woman he has come to love is his prime suspect.

©1993 Candace Robb (P)2017 Tantor

Why I will continue to listen to this series.

I enjoyed the story but found the narrative labored with more mulling over of actions and motives than necessary. The creation of the world of 14th c. York was beguiling.

Interesting Medieval Mystery

A combination of historical research, interesting characters, and a decent story make this an entertaining listen.

Historically accurate and a great mystery

I’ve read most of the Owen Archer series and have now started the audiobooks. I had a hard time putting the books down and an equally hard time pausing the audiobook. Ms. Robb knows her history and the city of York.

fabulous historic background

I enjoyed this novel to a point. It was historically interesting. Probably won't read series.

A fascinating medieval whodunit!

This is quite a thrilling medieval yarn that tells the story of a former archer an apothecary. As always, Derick Perkins does an excellent job of narrating this book. I look forward to hearing the next story in the series!