Emily Coffee and Commentary's Reviews > The Village Healer’s Book of Cures

A powerful novel of revenge and gender inequality in 17th century England. Bold and well researched, this novel examines the brutal double standard between men and women in regard to the pursuit of knowledge, the act leadership, and the air of confidence. Following our compelling protagonist Mary as she fights for not only her right to heal and learn, but also her very right to exist, we see the enduring legacy of misogyny and the hatred for anything outside the borders of acceptable, controllable. Through her eyes, we see the many contradictions of human nature, the many hypocrisies and judgements, as well as the kindness and courage. We see the sides of love and betrayal are often aligned, and the space between friend and foe closer than we would like to admit. A strong historical debut of the ways in which well intentioned women are often painted as villains.