🫖 The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern - Lynda Cohen Loigman

4 ⭐️ - Aw, this was magically sweet and heartfelt. A second chance romance, a touch of magic, and found family keep this one light, lovable, and great to break up those dark twisty thrillers. I wasn’t really sure what to expect here, but I enjoyed it!

The story is told in two timelines, which are easy to keep track of. We get to meet our characters in their older age and in the past as young teenagers. It was a great way to experience the growth of the characters by themselves but also together. The added magic is light and whimsical and keeps the storyline and plot unique. I really loved Augusta as a young girl and as an older woman. I also really loved the setting of the retirement home in FL and so very much enjoyed the banter with the other residents. Definitely one to add if you’re looking for lovable, cozy, magic vibes for fall. The authors note is a MUST read in this book. I loved reading how this story came to be!

This book! The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern is an amazing story. It was the breath of fresh air I desperately needed.

The story follows 2 timelines in the life of Augusta Stern. In her childhood, we see Augusta grow up in the late 1920's. The daughter of a pharmacist, she lives above her father's pharmacy but has never gotten over her own mother's death from diabetes, only months before insulin is developed as a treatment. In helping out at her father's shop, she meets Irving, her father's delivery boy and the two becomes friends. Her aunt also moves in with the family, bringing her own brand of apothecary treatments that prove to be quite helpful to many in the town.

In the second timeline, Augusta is about to turn 80 (1987) and is newly retired. We learn she became a pharmacist as an adult when women were still not fully accepted in the career, but also that she never married or had kids. Now her niece helps her locate a retirement village in FL., but after she moves in she realized Irving is also a resident. This brings up a lot of memories Augusta would prefer not to deal with, as this new chapter in her life is already difficult enough.

I enjoyed the audiobook to this novel. Each chapter is well paced and rotates back and forth between Augusta as a child and in her 1987 present. The narrator was wonderful at capturing her personality, her frustration, and the humor that we have throughout the story. In many ways it is part second chance love story, part historical fiction, part feminist literature, part mystery. I especially enjoy love stories that feature a mature couple- and I loved how the timelines converged to make all the threads come together. I listened to the entire book in one day while in the car, and I was in tears by the time I got home. It's the best kind of cry where you laugh through your tears. One of the best books I have listened to in a very long time!

Thanks to Netgalley and Macmillan audio for access to this ALC.

Review shared on Goodreads and will be reviewed on Instagram and the added link will be updated here.

I really enjoyed the story, but do admit I found the time jumps a bit tricky to follow with the audiobook. It was really helpful the narrator pointed out what year the chapter was in (bounces from the 1920s to 1980s). Overall I found the story really sweet but wished the characters were a tad younger (I dunno I had a hard time imaging 80 years old bathing in a pool, flirting, and falling in love which I know is very shortsighted of me). Clearly I need to go visit some assisted living centers. I did LOVE the second chances in this one, at love and friendship and I love a good "Letters to Juliet" style story where there are almost impossible fated happy endings.

I loved the author's note at the end of the story and wish I had read it first (might give away spoilers though for the reader!) because it made me appreciate certain characters a little bit more. I haven't read too many books placed in the 1920s but really liked it.

I didn't LOVE this one enough to give it 4 stars (I likely won't read it again), but I will recommend it for others so they can form their own opinion.

Augusta has completely given up on love and devoted her life entirely to her work. So much so that she has avoided retirement for nearly ten years. However, the time has come for her to finally retire, and her niece has found a beautiful senior community for her to live in in Florida. While swimming her daily laps, she bumps into Irving Rivkin, an old flame and the last person she wanted to see. Will they be able to set their muddled pasts aside and rekindle what was once there?

You find the answer to this question as you follow Augusta through her past as a teenager in the 1920s, wanting nothing more than to become a pharmacist like her father and to learn the secrets of her Aunt Esther's mysterious (and possibly magical?) homemade remedies. Loigman masterfully interlaces this past with the present and tells a tale of regret, second chances, and a reminds us all that it's never too late for love and to redefine our futures.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook book format.

Lynda Cohen Loigman’s “The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern” is a heartwarming and enchanting novel that beautifully blends historical fiction with a touch of magical realism. The audiobook, narrated by Gabra Zackman and the author herself, brings an added layer of depth and emotion to this already captivating story.

The narrative follows Augusta Stern, an eighty-year-old retired pharmacist who moves from New York to a retirement community in Florida. Augusta’s life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Irving Rivkin, her first love and the man she never thought she’d see again. 

Loigman’s writing is rich with historical detail and vivid descriptions, transporting listeners to the bustling streets of 1920s Brooklyn and the serene, yet complex, environment of a modern-day retirement community. The dual timelines are seamlessly woven together, creating a narrative that is both nostalgic and forward-looking. 

The audiobook narration by Gabra Zackman and Lynda Cohen Loigman is exceptional. Zackman’s performance captures Augusta’s strength, wit, and vulnerability, bringing the character to life in a way that is both authentic and engaging. Loigman’s own narration adds a personal touch, particularly in the sections that delve into Augusta’s past. 

Loigman delves into the complexities of aging, the importance of community, and the ways in which our past shapes our present. The magical elements, such as the creation of elixirs, add a whimsical touch that complements the more serious themes of the novel.

“The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern” is a delightful and moving audiobook that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and magical realism. Lynda Cohen Loigman’s storytelling, combined with the superb narration by Gabra Zackman, makes this a must-listen for anyone looking for a story that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Loigman’s work or new to her writing, this audiobook promises an unforgettable experience.

This was another VERY DIFFERENT book! It had some vibes of The Lost Apothecary, due to the subject matter, but wow! What a book!

Dual timelines in this one too! The first one in Brooklyn, 1920’s. (So, my hometown, but some years earlier!! )

Augusta Stern lives above her father’s pharmacy with her Mom, Dad and sister. He is a well known, respected pharmacist. She and her sister both help out in the store. When her Mom passes at a young age, her great aunt Esther comes to live with them…and she changes Augusta’s life! Augusta has always known she wants to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a pharmacist…but now that she’s getting to know her aunt, well, she likes what she does too! Although she’s NOT a pharmacist, she helps to heal people as well!

Irving is a delivery boy for her father…and they become close as time goes by…

The OTHER timeline is Florida, 1980’s. Augusta has finally been (kind of) forced to retire, due to her age…so she moves into a senior living community…and as soon as as she moves in, she begins making friends….both old and new! She is almost 80 years old at this time!

This book is a really sweet look into the life and times of one very talented young woman! And the more you read, the less you want to put this one down! That’s all I’m giving you!

Thanks to #NetGalley and #MacmillanAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
**** Release date is a few days from now, 10/8/24! ****

#TheLoveElixirOfAugustaStern by #LyndaCohenLoigman and narrated nicely by #GabraZackman and #LyndaCohenLoigman.

4 1/2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 stars for me, rounded up to 5!

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I aboslutely loved this charming late-in-life second chance love story. Augusta Stern has long worked at the pharmacy, but now that they've realized she's nearly 80, the administration has gently nudged her out the door. Newly retired, she moves into a senior living community, where she promptly runs into Irvin — formerly the boy who broke her heart many, many years before. Irving was her equivalent of "the boy next door," when he worked as the delivery boy for her father's drug store in the 1920s. Their love seemed destined for more until he suddenly disappeared from her life into the arms of another woman. Sixty years later, Irving seems to want to work his way back into Augusta's life, but she's not sure she can ever forgive him. As the truth of their shared history slowly unfolds, Augusta finds herself turning to the love potion her great aunt Esther concocted many years before. As it did once before, the elixir can both clarify feelings and lead to unexpected twists.

It was so easy to love all of the characters in this book. The plot delivers satisfying themes of independence, feminism, and having the confidence to stand outside social norms. Augusta chose her professional life over a domestic one at a time when this was well outside of the expectations of women. I adored the gruff but wise Ethel and would love to see more of her — perhaps a prequel that focuses on her life as well! Gabra Zackman did an exceptional job on narration, with a wide range of voices that sweep you right in.

Thank you to Macmillan Audio, NetGalley, and Lynda Cohen Loigman for an advance copy for honest review.

As a female pharmacist, I was very interested in this book. I thought it was great overall and I really enjoyed reading about the pharmacy history and Aunt Esther’s herbal medicine treatments. I think I enjoyed the 1920’s timeline better than the retirement home timeline. Great character development and I like how the story progressed and everything came together in the end. My only minor quibble would be that Augusta could come across as unlikeable at times so it could be hard to root for her. 4.5 rating

"The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern" by Lynda Cohen Loigman is an enchanting and heartwarming story that captivated me from beginning to end.

Set in the early 1900s, this novel follows the lives of the Stern family as they navigate relationships, secrets, and the pursuit of love.

Loigman's writing is beautifully descriptive and her characters are richly developed, making them feel like old friends. The story is both touching and thought-provoking, exploring themes of family, identity, and the power of forgiveness. I felt the audiobook narration of the author and Gabra Zackman truly added to my reading enjoyment. Thank you Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review.

This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction and tales of love and resilience. Highly recommended!

I have loved every book written by Loigman, and this was no exception! I am not sure why this author does not get more love from readers - her stories and characters are always so engaging! This historical fiction had 2 historical timelines that were woven together well. It was interesting learning more about pharmacies in the early 1920's as well as the push and pull between pharmacists and apothecaries. I loved the characters of Augusta and Irving, and I particularly enjoyed the author's note at the end detailing how Augusta was based on a real life person. Definitely recommend this one.....and all of this author's books!

thank you for the advance listening copy @macmillanaudio @netgalley

what a delightful read this was, i looked forward to listening to it every chance i got. we get past and present timelines that tie the story beautifully. i feel like the author did an amazing job with setting the scene because i could visualize the 1920s brooklyn setting and neighborhood dynamics. augusta and irving's relationship was one that i loved and looked forward to learning about their history. one thing i love is when a story has strong side characters that grow on you as the story develops, this one has that. the beautiful storytelling and the overall message of this book, was truly charming.

Augusta Stern is forced to retire from her job. Her eightieth birthday is quickly approaching, but her (now former) employer thought that she was nearing seventy because Augusta needed to give herself more time with her job. Work is life for Augusta, and she doesn't know what she will do without it, until her niece picks out a retirement community for her in Florida. Rallentando Springs turns out to be quite the surprise, as Augusta comes face-to-face with people of her past, including the man who broke her heart decades ago.

Thank you Lynda Cohen Loigman and Macmillan Audio for the audio ARC of this heartfelt story in exchange for an honest review. Every thought depicted here is mine and mine alone.

This book had every element included in it that I love: mystery, love, and a touch of magic. I absolutely loved learning about pharmaceuticals in the early 1900s. The dual timeline gave such a rich perspective into both Augusta's early life and her late life, making the story complete and full. Love was depicted in such a rich way, especially with Augusta's relationships with her great aunt Esther, her father, her sister, her niece, and, of course, Irving Rivkin.

Although I liked the audio version of this book and I liked the narrator, I definitely will want to go back and purchase and read the physical copy. It is too intricate and cozy to not read twice. I absolutely recommend the audio version, but also think about purchasing a hard copy to read too. I know that I missed parts of the story listening to the audiobook.

A beautiful warm love story. You never too old to find your happiness. People cross your path in life for a reason and you never know what kind of impact you may have on another person throughout life. Thank you Net galley for the advanced copy of this audiobook. The characters are all amazing and you get wrapped up into their lives and stories. Narrators are so pleasant and get you wrapped up into the story. Told in dual timeline from the 1920 and 1980 from teenagers to a retirement village. Don’t miss this one coming out Oct 8!

I really liked this as an audio book. I think this was one of those books that I wouldn't have liked as much if I was reading a physical copy but listening to it as I was walking around or at work. The narrator was really good and I found the different voices she did for each character to be unique and I could easily follow along. Loigman created a wonderful story and after hearing the end notes about it I fell in love with the book more. It took a lot of twist and turns that I was expecting like the mafia side plot but it wasn't overwhelming and I found it fit well, and what I found most suprising was the feminist undertones in the medicine teachings. It was a wonderful story of women, life, second chances at love, and protecting those who you love.

What an incredibly charming book from start to finish. I love books with older female protagonists. I love Augusta. She's strong, smart, and she's still learning how to grow and change. This book is uplifting and warm, and I loved every moment I spent with it.

I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did an excellent job differentiating the voices for all the characters. Her voice had the perfect tone for the book.

I'd like to thank Netgalley for the advanced listener copy. It was given in exchange for an honest review.

What a wonderful story! We are privileged to hear about Augusta Stern’s life, a tale that recounts her 80 years. From her time helping in her father’s pharmacy, sitting at her Aunt Esther’s feet, and attending pharmacy school, all revolves about her friendship with Irving Ripkin and her desire to be a healer. It’s a very full life. The ending actually brought tears to my eyes.

What a great book! I listened to the audiobook and the narrator wa terrific with all the accents.

Highly recommend! 4.5 stars rounded up to 5!

I enjoyed this novel! I read Lynda Loigman's previous book, the Matchmaker, and enjoyed that one as well.

The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern is told in dual timelines; I love books that almost seem like two novels in one.

Read this is you like:
- family relationships
- second chances
- life's decisions and how they shape a path
- rekindled friendships/relationships
- octogenarian characters
- Jewish culture (I love this theme!)

I appreciate the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you St. Martin’s Press and Macmillan Audio for my #gifted listening copy of The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern! TheLoveElixirOfAugustaStern #lyndacohenloigman #stmartinspress #MacAudio2024

𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐱𝐢𝐫 𝐎𝐟 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐋𝐲𝐧𝐝𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐢𝐠𝐦𝐚𝐧
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫: 𝐆𝐚𝐛𝐫𝐚 𝐙𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐦𝐚𝐧
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟖, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

Gabra Zackman

𝟱★

Oh my heart! This book was everything! Lynda Cohen Loigman, you’ve done it again! This book brought forth so many emotions and I am so sad it’s over. Augusta was such an amazing character and I loved how this book was told in dual timelines, so we could see Augusta as a teenager in the 1920’s and then again as an 80 year old living in Florida. In both timelines, we see Irving Rivkin, who was the delivery boy at her father’s old pharmacy, and now, by chance, living in the same senior community in Florida.

Growing up, Augusta always wanted to be a pharmacist, just like her father, Solomon. After her mother died, her Great Aunt Esther moved in to live with her family. It’s not long before Esther, who considers herself a healer, starts offering Solomon’s customers her own remedies, including her homemade chicken soup and other powders and potions. Augusta can’t help but be attracted to these unconventional remedies. As time passes, and Augusta prepares for pharmacy college, and her feelings for Irving continue to grow, she decides to use Esther’s most potent elixir, but not without consequences. Now decades later, Augusta is face to face with Irving again. Is it too late for a second chance?

🥣Magical Realism
🥣Second Chance Romance
🥣Dual Timelines
🥣Jewish Representation
🥣Strong and Resilient FMC

🎧I loved the physical book so much, that I decided to do a re-read with the audiobook! Gabra Zackman was truly phenomenal! I loved everything about experiencing this book for a second time. If you want a phenomenal listening experiencing, this one out on audio!

Posted on Goodreads on October 4, 2024: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/144922955?ref=nav_profile_l
**Posted on Instagram - Full Review- on or around October 8, 2024: http://www.instagram.com/nobookmark_noproblem
**Posted on Amazon on October 8, 2024
**-will post on designated date

Augusta Stern, a pharmacist has been forced to retire just shy of her 80th birthday. Feeling lost, she reluctantly accepts her circumstances and moves from New York to a retirement community in Florida where she encounters a man from her past, Irving Rivkin. And so the dual time line begins: Augusta’s story from her childhood during the 1920’s is flawlessly braided into the present using flashbacks.

The story was captivating and the characters charming. The author created strong female characters in both Augusta and her aunt, Esther while exploring the role of women as healers both using traditional medicine and herbalism in the Jewish tradition. Each character has a solid distinct voice and even their names reflect their personality. Esther means star and that she is.

Excellent witty, sometimes acerbic, dialogue with a dash of apothecarial magic and a whole lot of love makes this a satisfying uplifting read. You’re never too old to learn, forgive, love or fulfill your dreams.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan audio for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

What a beautifully written story based loosely on a real person about first love, hardship, perseverance, and a little bit of magic (alternative medicine…) set in Stern’s Pharmacy and the Rollentando retirement community 60 years later.

Augusta Stern did everything in her power to delay retirement, including lie about her age. But on the cusp of her 80th birthday, it was time to trade the pharmacist life for a retirement community in Florida - where she is shocked to run into the love of her life. Over the course of the book past and present collide to reveal the truth, old love renewed, and friendships old and new.

This audio book is beautifully narrated, and I really enjoyed this story with its playful banter, scene setting, and character development. My only complaint is Augusta was a bit too much of a grouchy old woman with poor Irving, and aggressively pushed him away in the later timeline. I’m not sure I believe he’d continue to pursue her, but i enjoyed the story too much to read into this!

Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.