Dr. Potter's Medicine Show

Publication Date: 7 February 2017.

This is a story about alchemy in the late 19th century. The story follows a group of entertainers and misfits in a freak show led by the violent and coldhearted, Lyman. Together with Dr. Potter, an opium addict and regular drunk, they are using the show as a platform to sell Chock-a-Saw Sagwa Tonic, a tonic that will cure all ailments of both body and mind. But for some, the tonic is anything but a help and leads to a fate worse than death.

This novel came at just the right time for me. After a spate of nail biting thrillers, I needed to read something different, and this novel was that and more. I'd probably classify this novel as part historical fiction, part western and part fantasy. I can say with some confidence that this book won't be to everyone's taste, but I loved it. It's a strange read, filled with weird and fantastical happenings. The characters are largely unlikable, except for Sol and Ag, who I found truly hilarious. The brothers really lightened the mood in the scenes in which they appeared. One of the strengths of this novel is the quality of the writing. It's impressive. I was transported right into every scene and I lived the often gory events with each of the characters. I could smell the damp grass, feel the pain in my hand as a finger was severed and see the disgust in Mercy's eyes whenever Lyman touched her. This novel did it for me on many levels. If one of the joys of reading is to be entertained, to go on an adventure, then this book filled me with joy. It was escapist and magical. But it's not all circus acts, smiling clowns and fairies. This novel is dark, and at times violent. So be warned. But with each turn of the page I was transported to a different era, to events that were both strange and bizarre, and I loved it.

My rating: * * * *

Thanks to author Eric Scott Fischl, the publisher and Netgalley for my ARC copy. It was my pleasure to write an honest review.