A Botanist's Guide to Parties and Poisons is a well written and engaging historical cozy mystery by Kate Khavari and a series starter for amateur sleuth Saffron Everleigh. Due out 7th June 2022 from Crooked Lane, it's 304 pages and will be available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats.

This book (and hopefully series) incorporates so many of my favorite cozy tropes: intelligent female protagonist, an academic setting, with all the jealousy and subterfuge that entails, historical setting (1920s London), some danger and intrigue and "fair play" well constructed mystery plot.

Saffron Everleigh is a research assistant botanist, with all the misogyny and difficulty that goes along with it at the time at a large research university. She's a legacy in academia, her late father was also an academic. A poisoning death at a celebratory dinner puts her father's friend and her mentor in the frame for the crime and if he's to be spared, she has to find out whodunnit herself.

The pacing, plotting, and characterizations are very well done and Ms. Khavari is adept at her craft. There is additionally a hint of romance (possibly foreshadowing), but it's not a main focus and I enjoyed being able to concentrate on the story without the distraction of romantic entanglements and/or drama. The main characters here are academics, and there are a number of academic in-jokes and humorous bits of dialogue which will either require readers to skim over or look up themselves. For readers who aren't bio-nerds, it could be a little tiresome, personally I found it enhanced the read.

Four stars. Delightfully engaging. I look forward to the next installment.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Not for me.

I had several issues with this book. First of, according to the blurb it takes place in 1923. However, I saw next to no proof of that in the book. If it weren't for a few scattered refences to "the war" this could have taken place at any time during the last century. As a historian, who was looking forward to a roaring twenties read, that disappointed me. Secondly, the characters were flat, lifeless and boring. I couldn't discern them from one another. Thirdly, it progressed to slowly with nothing much happening in the first 3rd.

I’ve seen this book all over bookstagram! Isn’t the cover so eye-catching and gorgeous? A Botanists Guide to Parties and Poisons by Kate Khavari is a fun read that combines my favorite genres: mystery/suspense with historical fiction. The author creates a terrific story that pulls the reader into a world so different than right now and I welcomed that!

Synopsis:

Saffron Everleigh is in a race against time to free her wrongly accused professor before he goes behind bars forever. Perfect for fans of Deanna Raybourn and Anna Lee Huber, Kate Khavari’s debut historical mystery is a fast-paced, fearless adventure.

London, 1923. Newly minted research assistant Saffron Everleigh attends a dinner party for the University College of London. While she expects to engage in conversations about the university’s large expedition to the Amazon, she doesn’t expect Mrs. Henry, one of the professors’ wives to drop to the floor, poisoned by an unknown toxin.

Dr. Maxwell, Saffron’s mentor, is the main suspect, having had an explosive argument with Dr. Henry a few days prior. As evidence mounts against Dr. Maxwell and the expedition’s departure draws nearer, Saffron realizes if she wants her mentor’s name cleared, she’ll have to do it herself.

Joined by enigmatic Alexander Ashton, a fellow researcher, Saffron uses her knowledge of botany as she explores steamy greenhouses, dark gardens, and deadly poisons. Will she be able to uncover the truth or will her investigation land her on the murderer’s list?

This book is coming out in June.

Saffron Everleigh is a young lady working diligently towards her career as a rising botanist while conducting studies as a research assistant at the University College in London in the 1920s. When the professor Saffron works with is accused of poisoning the wife of a colleague at a dinner party, Saffron takes it upon herself to uncover the truth. She teams up with Alexander Ashton, a fellow researcher, to solve the case, taking them both on a journey through greenhouses and gardens in the dark of night. Saffron finds that she will stop at nothing to find the true killer, even if it means putting her own life in danger. This book combines a historical fiction setting, murder mystery, and female protagonist finding herself in a predominantly male part of society. There is a smattering of romance as Saffron and Alexander grow close while solving the mystery, but I didn't find it too overbearing. Saffron is a likeable character and I would be interested to see her grow in future installments.

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley.

I'm in trouble because here comes another series I am already hooked on - but I'm the absolute worst when it comes to waiting for the next book in a series to be published. Not only did I thoroughly enjoy this offbeat historical mystery with an unlikely sleuth as a main protagonist but I already wish this was a TV show (will keep my fingers crossed for that one).

1920s, post WW1 London. The world of academia in the Department of Biology at a London University. Saffron Everleigh works as an assistant to Professor Maxwell and is a botanist in her own right. A dinner party hosted by Dr. Henry who is in charge of an upcoming expedition to Brazil, brings an unexpected level of excitement and mystery as it seems a poisonous attempt was made on the life of one of the guests. When Saffron's mentor becomes the main suspect, her determination and curious mind lead her on an unexpected sleuthing adventure. And the fact that a tall, dark and handsome colleague in the department, Alexander Ashton somehow keeps finding himself playing Watson to her Sherlock adds all sorts of spicy elements to the story.

I have to admit the first thing that drew me to this book was the combination of its gorgeous cover and intriguing tittle, and I love that my reading experience ended up fully matching the expectations created by the first two elements. I really enjoyed the combination of different genres, the chemistry between Saffron and Alexander and overall the cozy mystery vibes reminiscent of Agatha Christie works. After reading A Botanist's Guide to Parties and Poisons, I can't wait for Saffron's new adventure.

A big thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for my Advanced Reader Copy! Crooked Lane Books, I will most definitely be keeping an eye out for your other publications after this read.

This is a historical fiction with a dash of thriller in it. Set in 1920's, Saffron Everleigh attends a party organized by the botany department at the university. While attending the party, one of the attendees, Mrs. Henry, who is the wife of a professor Dr. Henry, collapses on the floor. It was soon found out that Mrs. Henry was poisoned and that the main suspect was Dr. Maxwell who few days before the dinner party had an argument with Dr. Henry and the plant was used to poison Mrs. Henry was found in Dr. Maxwell's department. Saffron is determined to prove that her mentor was innocent and she along with Alexander must find who the real person was before it was too late.

I think as a debut, this was good. The unique thing about the book was it was set in 1923 There were some parts which was boring but then I do like how Saffron and Alexander worked together to solve the mystery. I also like how Saffron had to struggle with being in the male dominated world which was realistic as this book was set in that era. It was not fast paced nor it had twists and turns but then it was actually enjoyable to read.

Overall, if you like a historical fiction with a thriller blend in it, then this book will be one for you. Honestly if this was a series, I cannot wait what Saffron Everleigh has in store! Worth 4 stars

Many thanks to Netgalley and Crooked Lane for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.

The action takes place in London in the 1920s. Saffron, our heroine, is a feisty, vibrant scientist who is well-versed in the use of poisons, which aids her in the investigation of a suspected murder attempt! Her relatable, intelligent intellect and real, simple, natural characteristics aid in rapidly immersing herself in the plot. Her resolve and fortitude are fueling her struggle against her coworkers’ arrogant, sexist, and discriminatory attitudes. The author skillfully depicted a tough, but also a bit impetuous heroine who acts quicker than she thinks, which serves as a complicated feature in contrast to her perceptive traits as a genuine scientist. The novel commences with a party scene with professors and high society in attendance, which is intended for the presentation of the trip, but the night ends with one of the participants being poisoned! Professor Maxwell, Saffron’s teacher, is suspected of the poisoning attempt, prompting Saffron to partner up with attractive veteran Alexander Ashton to identify the genuine perpetrator.

This book is a short read (I began and finished it in one day), and it’s also rather fast-paced, which is ideal for a mystery. There were no dull moments, and I was never bored! Naturally, my favorites were Saffron Everleigh and Alexander Ashton. Their chemistry was hilarious, and I couldn’t stop laughing. As the romance progressed, everything about them seemed very natural and true to character, which was a great plus for me! In a word, the major characters are outstanding. For me, the biggest selling factor was the growth of Saffron and Alexander, as well as their connection. They get along swimmingly and have some pretty fascinating and entertaining conversations. They also have a historical tie that binds them together and helps to enhance their bond.

I felt the narrative had just the right mix of mystery, suspense, and romance to hold my attention throughout. The finale was fantastic, and I wasn’t expecting it! The writing was excellent, and I like the descriptions of the university, greenhouses, and the folks themselves. I felt like I could truly imagine each scenario, which I enjoy doing. To summarise, the first book in the series, A Botanist’s Guide to Parties and Poisons, offers a promising start. It’s a solid historical cozy mystery that keeps you engaged for the most part. It’s a little formulaic, but that’s good. I’m excited about the next installment.

Based in the 1920s in London, research assistant Saffron is thrust into the middle of a poisoning investigation and she must help clear the name of her professor.

I absolutely loved this read. The characters were amazing espically Saffron. And the description of the world was captivating!
I cant wait for book two!!

A fun historical mystery with many different moving pieces. I will say the story started a bit fast for me and I felt like I was playing catch up but once I got into it it was quite enjoyable!!

Thank you to the publishers for providing me with an arc for an honest review!

set in the 1920s, a woman is succeeding in an all male academic arena. a victim is murdered with poison so Saffron works with a (possible romantic interest) man to solve the crime

4 Stars.

*Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this in exchange for my own review*

This was such a twisty, poetic read. It's very Agatha Christie, Sherlock Holmes-esque in style and some of the descriptions. I really loved how the day to day was added to further the story rather than the description.

The mystery was not too suspenseful, more calm and creeping than thrilling. I guessed about 10 different murderers and motives but was quite happy with the reveal and how the characters emerged. The details of the plants and the school seemed realistic and easily understood for non-science folk like myself.

The stand out for me was the relationship between Saffron and Elizabeth. I love the idea of women banding together in books set back in periods of history where women weren't really allowed out on their own. I also love the romance and the easy way that the couple slid into each other's life, it didn't overpower the story but complemented it so well.

My gripe was the length - the book had a lull that I was somewhat lazy to get through. I knew it would end well and was glad I got back into the rhythm and flew through it.

I'd recommend for any fans of Sherlock/Agatha or cozy mystery as it's a serene ride. There's no noted triggers aside from the general murder ones, there is mentions of adult themes.

A Botanist’s Guide to Parties and Poisons by Kate Khavari

Saffron Everleigh, an assistant to Dr. Maxwell at the London University school of botany, did not want to attend this party. She did not want to run into the men that mocked her daily and the especially not the one who did a lot more than mock.

She was right. She should have stayed home. Right in front of her a crime would take place and her beloved Dr. Maxwell would be blamed for it. But could she prove his innocence? Save him and herself.

I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book. The title of course had me interested because I’m fascinated by poisons. And that’s totally normal.

But then the first chapter was vanilla in many ways. I think the biggest turn off is this book is very white. There are no people of color and no obvious gender or sexuality diversity. I don’t believe in the “it was the times” agreement. Since, POC and Queer people existed and interacted with white straight people throughout history. Plus there are too many good historical fiction books that have main characters that are POC and Queer.
So, my rule is at least have some side characters who are diverse. The only exception to that is I prefer no mention of diverse people if it is only going to be insults. Sadly, this happens with Indigenous people, They are merely mentioned as one aspect of a dangerous expedition. But I kept reading because it was a nice cozy mystery.

For the most part I liked Saffron Everleigh and her love interest Alexander Aston. They had some good wholesome chemistry. I thought the books dealt well with sexism Saffron faces and PTSD Aston deals with even though it failed on racism.
My favorite character is Elizabeth, Saffron’s best friend, who is a fiery mother hen-house wife-best-friend character. She was worth reading the whole book. And I will read the next one just to get more Elizabeth.
I am going to rate this book a 3.5 stars out of five stars. I thought it needed diversity and could have been a faster paced book. But it was a solid cozy mystery and I will read the next books if this becomes a series.

At the end of the day, this truly wasn't a bad book. I just don't believe I was the right audience for it. The book was just okay in my opinion. I have only one negative critique of this book, and that is simply that it was hard to overlook the use of "University College."

This book caught my eye because of the great title and gorgeous cover art. I’m glad it did because this was a really enjoyable read!

The story revolves around a Botany Department at University College in London, 1923. A professor’s wife is poisoned at a party with an apparent plant toxin. This launches research assistant Saffron Everleigh on a hunt for the attacker through greenhouses, libraries, gardens and police stations. The author’s rich descriptions pull you right into the settings and the multi-faceted characters are believable and engaging.

I loved the variety in the action - from quiet scenes in university libraries to intense confrontation with the suspected attackers. I would have appreciated a few more plot twists towards the end of the novel, but overall I loved the journey it took me on. I feel like these characters have many more layers to peel back and could carry on for a few more novels. I’m looking forward to the next one!

I received a copy of this book from the published via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The title of this book, #ABotanistsGuidetoPartiesandPoisons, drew me in. It is so unique and catchy, that I just had to read the book. Thanks to #NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Kate Khavari has penned a wonderful story, maintaining the uniqueness of the title within the pages as well. It is a well-written page-turner, with compelling characters, a complex mystery, and a wonderful setting in both time and place.
Saffron Everleigh's challenges as the first and only female academic in the botany department and the university as a whole are realistic for the time and yet still pertinent today. Alexander Ashton is also a sympathetic character as he deals with post-traumatic stresses in his own way. The building relationship between the two is hopeful for them both, yet doesn't overwhelm the progress of the mystery.
The mystery itself has plenty of suspects and is mired in the politics that inevitably come into academia. Saffron's determination to solve the crime doesn't come across as over-the-top as the actions of heroines in some mysteries can.
The scientific aspects of the book are not overwhelming to the layperson, and help to make the mystery authentic and fascinating.
I look forward to whatever else the botanist decides to provide a guidebook on.

Loved this book! The plot was so immersive and the relationship between the main protagonists made the story enthralling. I loved the little moments of attention to detail and historical accuracy, the cozy feel while also still having pulse pounding action, an overall fun read!

This Saffron Everleigh Mystery definitely has character. The beautiful cover immediately sets the tone and matches the overall atmosphere. It’s got an interesting and original plot set in an other era for added flair, especially given the historical context and setting. All the ingredients seemed there to cook up a riveting investigation. Unfortunately, it never really got me excited. For all the writing qualities, I never managed to feel engaged enough. But regardless, I’m sure it’ll be riveting to others.

Thank you to Crooked Lane book for this Netgalley arc in exchange for an honest review.

With the death of a botanist on days before leaving for an Amazonian expedition, we find the University research assistant turning detective - botanist.. Attempting to find out why, who and mostly how the murder was committed whiles getting herself in dangerous situation
There is poison, sexual advances, a love affair and experiments rolled into this slightly cozy mystery.
Enjoyable to the end with a lot of "Hiss" and "Boos" and Cheering for a happy ending.

First off, thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this digital ARC.

This book immediately caught my attention because of the cover...and then the description. Set in the 1920, in the botany department with amazing characters, this is a story everyone will enjoy. The characters not only realistic but also very engaging. Total his my science NERD brain too! A great mystery, with suspense AND romance - a triple threat and a great ready!...and the ending - just wait for it

The setting of this book was incredible. The atmosphere was fantastic and I loved getting to read about 1920s London.