This book is about elements that can be deadly. Mercury, arsenic, antimony, lead, and thallium are well-acquainted with the adventures of those who used them as poisons. Emsley explores the gruesome history of these elements and those who fell victim to them, in a captivating narrative that combines true crime stories, enduring historical mysteries, tragic accidents, and the science behind it all. The colorful array includes ancient alchemists, kings, leaders, a pope, several great musicians, and a variety of murderers.

Among the intriguing tales is that of the 17th-century poet Sir Thomas Overbury, who survived four attempts of mercury poisoning but died when the poison was administered by injection—under whose instructions remains uncertain. Also described is the notorious case of Florence Maybrick, who was accused of poisoning her abusive husband James with arsenic, but at the time was widely believed to be innocent. Her guilt remains contested.

Through vividly narrated stories of innocent mistakes, industrial accidents, poisoners of various types—cold, calculating, desperate—and deaths that remain a mystery, Emsley reveals the dark side of the Periodic Table. Pages: 432, Dimensions: 12.9x12.9cm