This book was one that made me want to cut up with a nice blanket and sink into it. They had really great description and really focused on painting a picture with it.

In "The Woman in the Garden," author Jill Johnson weaves a captivating tale that revolves around the life of Eustacia Rose, a knowledgeable and introverted Professor of Botanical Toxicology. Surrounded by her cherished collection of poisonous plants, Eustacia's existence is characterized by solitude, a predictable routine, and a peculiar interest in observing her neighbors through the lens of her trusty telescope. What initially begins as innocent curiosity soon develops into an all-consuming fascination when Eustacia becomes enchanted by her beautiful new neighbor, Simone, whose life she meticulously documents for her so-called "research." When a piercing scream shatters the quietude one evening, Eustacia's insatiable curiosity compels her to delve deeper into the mystery. Through her telescope, she catches glimpses of Simone's enthralling existence, but also encounters the enigmatic presence of four men revolving around her. Disturbed by an unshakeable feeling that Simone needs her protection, Eustacia embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about these men and their intentions. However, Eustacia's world takes a dramatic turn when she arrives home one day to find her beloved garden in ruins. To her dismay, she discovers that someone close to Simone has fallen victim to a rare poisonous plant, setting in motion a chain of events that thrusts Eustacia into the heart of a crime. As the walls of her secluded life crumble, she finds herself compelled to break free from the confines of her secret garden and take matters into her own hands. Through Johnson's skillful storytelling, readers are immersed in Eustacia's transformation as she confronts the harsh realities of the world beyond her plants. She soon realizes that the toxicity present in her garden is mirrored in the people she encounters – a revelation that both shocks and motivates her. Eustacia's journey becomes a gripping exploration of human nature, trust, and the lengths one is willing to go to protect those they care about. "The Woman in the Garden" is a literary masterpiece that effortlessly blends elements of mystery, psychological intrigue, and botanical knowledge. Johnson's vivid descriptions bring the characters and their surroundings to life, allowing readers to vividly imagine the lush garden, the hidden secrets it holds, and the captivating personalities that inhabit its pages. With each turn of the page, the plot thickens, and the reader's investment in Eustacia's quest intensifies. In conclusion, "The Woman in the Garden" is a captivating novel that seamlessly combines the beauty of botanical fascination with the chilling realities of human nature. Jill Johnson's remarkable storytelling and well-crafted characters make for an enthralling read that will leave readers captivated until the final page. As Eustacia Rose navigates a world filled with both literal and figurative toxicity, she serves as a reminder that, sometimes, the most dangerous threats are the ones we least expect.

I loved the premise of this book. Very unique! Jill Johnson did a great job drawing me in with a storyline full of suspense and wonderfully developed characters. I didnt want to put the book down once I started it. I look forward to more books by this author.

The Woman in the Garden is a delightfully suspenseful read that will have you wishing that you could have a poisonous plant rooftop garden of your very own. I wasn't too sure that I'd enjoy all of the botany talk, but learning about all of the various toxic plants actually ended up being my very favorite part of the book. Who knew that there were so many amazing plants that could help you take out your enemies, annoying neighbors, and crappy exes? Um, theoretically, of course.

Eustacia Rose, a now-disgraced professor of botanical toxicology, is our quirky (and presumably neurodivergent) main character, and she's fantastic. Her second favorite hobby (plant collecting aside) is spying on others via telescope, and when one of her neighbors (who she might just be ever so slightly obsessed with) goes missing, she immediately puts herself on the case. From there, hijinks ensue in the best possible sort of way.

Really, I loved almost everything about this book. The characters, the setting (London), the plot, the diversity (neurodivergence and LGBTQ representation), etc. My only minor quibble is that the ending, specifically the wrapping up of the murder mystery, was a little too vague for my tastes. I like for the novels I read to be wrapped up tightly at the end, and The Woman in the Garden didn't quite get there. However, it really is a small issue because I loved the ending otherwise.

Also, this isn't a criticism of this book specifically and it's not factored into my rating at all, but why can loners never just stay loners in books? I mean, I daresay there are a lot of us introverts who are perfectly happy doing our own thing (if my husband left me tomorrow, I'd likely become a reclusive crazy cat lady and never date again) – we don't all need saving from our “loneliness” by unexpected friendships that make us completely change our outlook on companionship. /end rant

But, anyway, this book is so much fun. If you like mysteries with quirky main characters and lots of dangerous plants, you'll likely enjoy this one.

Overall rating: 4.4 stars, rounded down.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review.

Professor Rose is the woman in the garden of poisonous plants. She cares deeply for them.

She purchases a telescope and through it she sees her quite lovely neighbor. She sees men come and go and names each one after a dangerous plant.

She has a past, and what happens to the neighbor throws Rose right into the midst of crime and she becomes the amateur detective who must solve it.

I really enjoyed this read. The characters are nicely flushed out and the story captivated me - I didn't want to put it down. Thus, I consider this a good, satisfying read.