A Taste for Poison

Viac o knihe

This book delves into the effects of eleven notorious poisons on the human body, explored through the murders in which they were used. Poison remains a favored weapon for scheming murderers, capable of being discreetly administered in various ways. The author examines how these toxins disrupt bodily functions, offering insights into the damage they cause. Blending popular science, medical history, and true crime, the narrative unfolds at a cellular level, revealing both the chilling accounts of murderers and the compelling stories of the poisons themselves. Each of the eleven deadly molecules is discussed in relation to real-life crimes—some infamous, others obscure or unsolved—highlighting the lethal impact of poison on the body's intricate systems. The book draws from historical records and contemporary news, showcasing tales of spurned lovers, dubious scientists, medical professionals, and political assassins. It illustrates how poisons, from the origins of the gin & tonic to arsenic-laced wallpaper in Napoleon's bedroom, can impair our bodies to deadly effect. This captivating exploration invites readers to understand the complexities of life and death through the lens of toxic substances.