I really enjoyed this and was surprised at how much I came to love Saffron and Alexander. I found found setting interesting and enjoyed the slow romance. Having Alexander as a shellshocked war veteran was fascinating and provided a prospective we don't usually see, or at least not in the books I normally read.

The mystery itself was intriguing and made me want to know just how it was all going to go down.

Although the poison symptoms was made up, I can see the author did make an effort to keep everything else as accurate as possible.

Thank you NetGallgery for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.

<b>**FULL REVIEW**</b>

I’m sorry to say, despite the beautiful cover and high hopes I had going into this story…I’m sorely disappointed and so, so bored.

I’m all for cozy mysteries, a little bit of romance, and fancy accents…but this story fell a little flat. I couldn’t relate to any of the characters, I found myself skimming what felt like needless word dumps throughout almost the entire book.

Saffron’s name alone is written so many times….ugh. Books typically written in this point of view tend to be more difficult to stay immersed in for me anyway, but I couldn’t get over the author’s lack of creativity in finding ways to show me things instead of telling this entire story. It was drawn out and mind-numbing, but not in the way I’d hoped.

I won’t be reading the rest of the series…thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this title in exchange for my honest review.

<b>**Barely 2 So Much Saffron, Stars**</b>

Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for giving me a free eARC of this book to read in exchange for my review!

I could not get into this book.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This book was dreamy and cozy and and was perfectly what I needed at this point. I loved this one and can't wait to read more.

I read 2/3 of this book before I gave up in disappointment. The setting was the highlight, I wanted to see more of the setting than of the characters, who quite frankly bored me. The pacing felt incredibly slow. I wanted to persist, because there was so much that I liked about this book, and the synopsis drew me in, but in the end, I had to admit defeat.

Slow paced historical mystery with seemingly forced romance and did not really hold my attention. Her bestfriend was a breath of fresh air but in the end everything came together nicely so I am thankful for that.

Thank you for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

An Agatha Christie-esque historical murder mystery set on a college campus shortly after WWI
I read A Botanist’s Guide to Parties and Poisons in one sitting. It was the perfect read for the rainy and uncharacteristically cold summer afternoon. I don’t usually read historical fiction books, but I decided to lean into it because our MC was a trailblazing woman scientist.


Saffron Everleigh is the only woman researcher in the University College London Biology Department. She is attending a faculty party when Dr. Henry’s wife collapses. Her mentor, Dr. Maxwell, is accused of poisoning his colleague’s wife over a dispute about a research trip to Brazil. Saffron, a botanist, knows the facts don’t add up, and the plant that incriminates Dr. Maxwell is unlikely to be the poison used on Mrs. Henry. So, using her researcher and botanist’s skills and with the help of her colleague Alexander Ashton, Saffron sets out to find who had the motive and means to poison Mrs. Henry.

This story is simple and slow-paced, true to the Agatha Christie style. A historical glimpse of the 1920s with subplots that feel true to the times. A world that is reeling from a devastating war and the consequences for those who fought and their families. A world where a woman has to work five (fifty?) times harder than a man to be respected. In spite of the odds that are stacked against her, Saffron forges her path and leaves her mark.

A Botanist’s Guide to Parties and Poisons is a sweet cozy mystery that reads fast and wraps up neatly.

Imagine, an intelligent female scientist who is both adept in her field and at solving crimes! It reminds me of Lidia Poet but with botany. I think the book itself was rather lacking. I wanted a bit more pizzazz or a bit more flavor in other areas of the book. Perhaps some witty comedy to supplement here and there, or maybe just more character depth would have done the trick.

Unfortunately, as a whole it was an okay book but it was just flat. Like looking at a photo of a place rather than being there and what I wanted was to truly be transported into the time period, feel the feelings and the fear, the urgency, and connect the dots along with the characters like in an Agatha Christie.

Due to a sudden, unexpected passing in the family a few years ago and another more recently and my subsequent (mental) health issues stemming from that, I was unable to download this book in time to review it before it was archived as I did not visit this site for several years after the bereavements. This meant I didn't read or venture onto netgalley for years as not only did it remind me of that person as they shared my passion for reading, but I also struggled to maintain interest in anything due to overwhelming depression. I was therefore unable to download this title in time and so I couldn't give a review as it wasn't successfully acquired before it was archived. The second issue that has happened with some of my other books is that I had them downloaded to one particular device and said device is now defunct, so I have no access to those books anymore, sadly.

This means I can't leave an accurate reflection of my feelings towards the book as I am unable to read it now and so I am leaving a message of explanation instead. I am now back to reading and reviewing full time as once considerable time had passed I have found that books have been helping me significantly in terms of my mindset and mental health - this was after having no interest in anything for quite a number of years after the passings. Anything requested and approved will be read and a review written and posted to Amazon (where I am a Hall of Famer & Top Reviewer), Goodreads (where I have several thousand friends and the same amount who follow my reviews) and Waterstones (or Barnes & Noble if the publisher is American based). Thank you for the opportunity and apologies for the inconvenience.

📚 Review:

Kate Khavari's "A Botanist's Guide to Parties and Poisons" is a thrilling historical mystery set in 1920s London. The story follows Saffron Everleigh, a research assistant who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation when one of the professors' wives is poisoned at a dinner party. With her mentor, Dr. Maxwell, suspected of the crime, Saffron must use her extensive knowledge of botany to uncover the truth and clear his name.

The novel is fast-paced and full of suspense, with a cast of memorable characters and an intricate plot that will keep readers guessing until the very end. Khavari's writing is engaging and vivid, bringing the steamy greenhouses and dark gardens of London to life with lush descriptions. The historical setting adds an extra layer of intrigue, as Saffron navigates a world where women are often overlooked and underestimated.

Overall, "A Botanist's Guide to Parties and Poisons" is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and mystery. Khavari has crafted a compelling debut that will leave readers eagerly anticipating her next book.

This actually was a DNF for me. While the premise was intriguing and I loved the setting, there was something about that writing that just fell short for me. I believe I was in a reading slump at the time, so that also could have impaired my judgment and I may pick it up again.

In the captivating blend of cozy mystery and historical thriller, set in 1920's London, I found myself enthralled by Saffron, our aspiring and fiery scientist with a deep knowledge of poisons. As she assists in the investigation of a suspicious murder attempt, her relatable and genuine traits quickly drew me into the story. Despite facing condescending colleagues, Saffron's determination and resilience shone through, making her a true heroine.

The narrative takes an exciting turn at a party attended by esteemed academicians and high society members, which unexpectedly turns into an attempted poisoning. When Saffron's teacher, Professor Maxwell, is accused, she embarks on a quest to find the real perpetrator, teaming up with the charming veteran Alexander Ashton. Their chemistry hints at a delightful romance that adds even more allure to the tale.

Although the story's pacing slowed in the middle and the identity of the perpetrator seemed far-fetched, I thoroughly enjoyed this intriguing and well-executed cozy murder mystery. The time-traveling experience to early 20th-century London, combined with Saffron's compelling character development and the blossoming romance, earned this suspenseful adventure four stars—a riveting and tempting journey into a bygone era.

I really enjoyed this book. The beginning was a little slow for me, like I find most mysteries, but about 45% in, and I could not put it down. I love Saffon and her curiosity. I can't wait to read the next installment.

I really enjoyed this book and the journey it took me on as its reader. Saffron as a protagonist was someone who I loved when she was first introduced, but also loved being able to see her journey on furthering to develop and grow. The pacing of this book was a little slower, but I think that makes sense when you consider this is the first installment in a series rather than a standalone that might need to be faster to fit everything in. Overall, I just really enjoyed this read. I think it really transports you thought its descriptive words to a place that is filled with mystery, suspense and cut throat academia and from start to finish I was curious.

Audiobook review
I enjoyed this book. I was excited by the blurb and cover as I thought it may help to scratch the itch of The Lost Apothecary- I've not felt a historical mystery consume me like that since I read it!
This started well, I liked the start and the narrator kept me engaged, listening around the house. I liked the characters, although some weren't likeable, that just made it enjoyable because I disliked them. Characters don't have to be likeable, I just want them to make me react and feel strong emotions!
The pacing then slowed by rather a lot and I found myself not as excited to listen much.
I enjoyed the ending too, but I was left feeling somewhat underwhelmed because of the middle.

The year is 1923. Saffron Everleigh is an up and coming research assistant and botanist at the University College of London. When the wife of a high-ranking academic is poisoned at a soiree, and her mentor is framed, Saffron launches into her own investigation to clear his name and find the real culprit.

This was a fun read. It had the slow, elegant pace of a period novel with the intrigue, red herrings and complex motives that accompany a mystery. There was the obligatory love interest, of course, but also some far deeper subjects: sexism in the 1920's, workplace harassment, corruption and PTSD, all of which were unexpected in a lighthearted mystery novel.

The climax of the story was a definite page turner, and while it wasn't entirely unpredictable, it was still good fun.

~Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review~

This was a really fun book overall. Had a cute little love story mixed in the middle of the poisonings, and it was just fun. I will definitely be reading future books.

I was initially drawn to this book because of the gorgeous cover. I mean, just LOOK at it. It’s stunning. But the book description hooked me as well. I love mystery books with interesting main characters and since I read A LOT of cozy mysteries, I end up hearing a lot about bakers, innkeepers, and librarians (not that there’s anything wrong with that – I’m obviously still reading them!) but I always like discovering books with unique vocations or hobbies.

Enter Saffron Everleigh (many of the names in this book relate to plants, for obvious reason). She’s a research assistant who specialises in botany at a university. Which isn’t that unusual, but this book is set in the 1920s, so it makes it a lot harder for Saffron to be taken seriously. Saffron not only has to deal with a rough work environment (she’s the only woman working in the department), but she also has to deal with chauvinistic male colleagues and superiors, plus several doses of sexual harassment (including one quite serious one).

I liked most of Saffron’s character – she’s brilliant, assertive, fiery, and capable. She’s often a victim of the times but there’s one situation in the story that I found quite… shall we say irresponsible? (No spoilers but wow, that was a dumb move Saffron!). I would describe her as brilliant but impulsive.

I did like her banter with Alexander Ashton, who helps her in her investigation. The two of them together are quick and witty and you can definitely see the romance brewing between them from the start. The scenes with the pair of them together were a highlight for me. Alexander has his own troubled background and he was one character I definitely wanted to learn more about – hopefully in future books!

I also get her allegiance to her mentor, Professor Maxwell, and why she’s working so hard to clear his name. He seems to be the only decent faculty member in the department and the loyalty Saffron displays to him is well deserved.

The geek in me wanted a bit more botany and nerdy scientific tidbits, but I guess that’s probably not for many people so the book is light on that subject. The mystery itself almost took a backseat to all the personal issues Saffron had to deal with so I didn’t spend much time trying to figure out whodunnit and just arrived at the conclusion when the book did its reveal.

The interesting characters and intriguing premise will definitely bring me back for the next book in the series.

*** Thank you to the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, for providing me with an e-copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.

The roarin' 20's and in London? Yes please! I really enjoyed many elements of this one. It was not only a fun read but also highlights important things.

It was plot driven but I do feel like the characters had moments to shine.

The mindset of this time in history is frustrating - I can't even imagine actually living through some of it.

While at times mildly predictable the mystery was still fun to follow.