The Poison Keeper

An Enthralling Historical Novel of Renaissance Italy (Italian Renaissance Series)

By: Deborah Swift

Narrated by: Diana Croft

Naples, 1633. Aqua Tofana: One drop to heal. Three drops to kill.

Giulia Tofana longs for more responsibility in her mother’s apothecary business, but Mamma has always been secretive and refuses to tell her the hidden keys to her success. But the day Mamma is arrested for the poisoning of the powerful Duke de Verdi, Giulia is shocked to uncover the darker side of her trade.

Giulia must run for her life and escapes to Naples, under the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, to the home of her aunt Isabetta, a famous courtesan. But when Giulia hears that her mother has been executed and learns of the cruel manner of her death, she swears she will wreak revenge on the Duke de Verdi.

The trouble is, Naples is in the grip of Domenico, the Duke’s brother, who controls the city with the "Camorra", the mafia. Worse, her aunt Isabetta, under his thrall, insists that she should be consort to him.

Based on the legendary life of Giulia Tofana, this is a story of hidden family secrets and how vengeance can be overcome by courage and love.

"Her characters are so real they linger in the mind long after the book is back on the shelf." (Historical Novel Society)

©2021 Deborah Swift (P)2022 Deborah Swift

Italian historical fiction!

If you enjoy historical fiction this is a great choice! Narration brings the book to life!! Loved it!

Determinations grit.

Kept me on the edge of the chair and left me feeling I was caught the the emotions.

A book that will keep you wanting more

This book is not only beautifully written, but one that firmly places you in this world. Deborah ‘s gift for language holds you from chapter one and rarely lets you go. I can’t wait to keep reading

Never knew of poisoners in history,.

Enjoyed learning about this woman! What a small part of history I never considered. Love learning new things!

great book

great naration by dianna croft
cant wait to start the next book
the silkworm keeper.