"The Apothecary" is a historical novel by Maile Meloy set in the early 1950s. It follows the story of a young girl named Janet who moves to London and discovers a mysterious apothecary who practices alchemy. The narrative combines elements of adventure and magic as Janet and her friends uncover secrets that could change their lives. The book explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the impact of war, particularly during the Cold War era. As Janet navigates her new surroundings, she learns about the power of knowledge and the importance of standing up for what is right.