A Bitter Remedy

⭐⭐⭐

A Bitter Remedy by Alis Hawkins is set in Jesus College, Oxford, in 1881. The story begins with the death of a young undergraduate in his lodgings, prompting a shocking discovery during the subsequent medical examination. Basil Rice, a fellow at Jesus College who harbors a secret, is compelled to intervene when the deceased student's guardian accuses the college of responsibility and threatens scandal. In doing so, Basil becomes entangled in the tragic life of Sidney Parker.

The mystery captivates Rhiannon ‘Non' Vaughan, a young Welsh polymath newly admitted to university lectures. Despite her fervent desire to contribute and prove herself, Non encounters resistance from both the college principal and influential women associated with Oxford's recently established female halls. Undeterred, Non's relentless determination and sharp intellect lead her to forge an unlikely partnership with Basil – two outsiders in the university setting. Together, they assume responsibility for investigating Parker's mysterious demise.

As Non and Basil delve deeper into their investigation, they encounter corporate misconduct and unscrupulous medical practitioners that challenge their preconceived notions about the idyllic facades of Oxford's renowned spires.

While I found A Bitter Remedy to be an enjoyable read overall, it had its shortcomings. The book's cover perfectly complements its compelling storyline – an observation worth mentioning. I particularly appreciated the author's meticulous research on Oxford as it added depth and atmosphere to the narrative. However, I must admit that I found some parts of the book to be excessively slow-paced and repetitive. Additionally, Non's character proved rather grating on my nerves; she came across as annoying throughout the story. Therefore, this novel is a mixed bag for me – with its strengths lying in its well-crafted setting but hindered by pacing issues and a bothersome protagonist.

ARC Via NetGalley

  ‘'There was nothing more likely to convince me that being married was not for me than this business of women calling themselves by their husband's name. Mrs Green's name was Charlotte but here she was, signing herself ‘T.H.' because those were her husband's initials. As if she was just a female reflection of him.''
Oxford 1880s. Jesus College has recently (and rather reluctantly...) decided to accept ‘female' students due to the untiring efforts of pioneers. Rhiannon, a young woman who is every bit the feisty, no-nonsense Welsh, is a brilliant example of the true scholar. Her mind is as sharp as her tongue and the academic circus (because that's what it is, actually...) isn't ready to accept that such a creature exists. When a mysterious death takes place, she joins forces with Basil, a professor who is a bright example of a kind educator. So, what do we get when two bright examples meet? A fascinating mystery.
‘'Social conventions aren't there to keep society civilised, they're there to keep society as men want it. And I refuse to abide by them in my own home.''
Yes, we have a plethora of murder mysteries set in the Victorian Era with a woman and a man trying to figure out the solution to the puzzle and Dark Academia has been all the rage lately. However, Alis Hawkins's novel isn't just another book falling into the genre. First and foremost, Rhiannon is one hell of a character. You'll adore her to pieces (unless you are a brainless being in which case you are NOT allowed to have an opinion). Her intelligence, her courage, her affinity for learning, her stubbornness, her refusal to conform or act against her principles. She is bold as brass and to Hell with it. Sure, some actions of hers may seem irrational and spontaneous but every strong personality rushes to action. The rest of the characters are well drawn and although Basil cannot be compared to the force of Nature that is Rhiannon, his struggles, doubts and insecurities are depicted with clarity and sensitivity. 
‘'-Is that not what all women aspire to? Their own household, husband, children?''‘'- No. Some women - far more of us than you might imagine - would prefer to see a world where women can also live full and fulfilling lives while remaining unmarried.''
The atmosphere is impeccable. Dark Academia is particularly fascinating and the scope is focused on the academic community with an emphasis on the manipulation of Medicine to lure the weak-minded. Also, Rhiannon's love and longing for her homeland is tangible and touching.
And it's about time to realise that some of us do NOT want to become mothers and we do NOT want to get married. Period. DEAL WITH IT!
Many thanks to Canelo Crime and The Pigeonhole for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My reviews can also be found on https://theopinionatedreaderblog.wordpress.com/
‘'They couldn't see for miles and miles the hills in the far distance, so they weren't encouraged to wonder what lay beyond. There was just land, then trees.   But with the horizon invisible, there wasn't much of that. Just dead grass and mud under my feet and mist greying out any bits of colour. In the sun, the haws and rosehips would've been bright as jewels in the hedges, but now you couldn't see them unless you went right up close.''
Many thanks to Canelo Crime and The Pigeonhole for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My reviews can also be found on https://theopinionatedreaderblog.wordpress.com/