When I requested this book through NetGalley, I didn't realize it was the third in a series, but as long as you don't mind being mildly unfamiliar with some side characters, I think you'll be fine. This feels similar to other cozy mystery series, but has a more historical setting. I enjoyed following a supremely intelligent and strong willed main character through a male dominated field and would definitely recommend this read to lovers of mystery series!

I'm very grateful to NetGalley and Dreamscape media for granting me access to this audio ARC.

A BOTANIST’S GUIDE TO SOCIETY AND SECRETS is the third book in the Saffron Everleigh Mysteries by Kate Khavari. I generally prefer contemporary cozy mysteries, but this is one historical mystery series that I immediately move to the top of my TBR pile when it becomes available. Set post WWI, protagonist Saffron Everleigh is an intelligent botanical researcher, trying to make her way in a male-dominated world. The author does an admirable job capturing the strictures of society on women, yet gives glimpses at the changes that are slowly taking place. It’s obvious she has done her research into the time period along with detailed information on poisonous plants, which brings authenticity to the story. I especially loved her use of Saffron’s roommate and best friend, Elizabeth, and how she assisted in solving the mystery. Despite the slow buildup, the mysteries were well-plotted, and I enjoyed the spy-novel feel to this book as Saffron ends up going undercover at a government lab. If you enjoy strong female characters, a bit of intrigue, puzzling murders to solve, with a bit of romance, I recommend A Botanist’s Guide to Society and Secrets.

I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook version thanks to Dreamscape Media. Narrated by Jodie Harris, the delightful British (and other) accents of the characters were brought to life and added to my overall enjoyment of the book. She effectively captured the distinct personalities of each of the characters and not once did I feel lost as to whom was speaking.

I enjoyed Saffron’s latest adventure. She’s starting to rely more on her friends. I especially appreciated Elizabeth taking a more active role this time around. Elizabeth staging an impromptu interrogation of a room full of suspects was probably my favorite scene in the whole book!
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I was intrigued by the role family played in this story. All three POV characters (Saffron, Elizabeth, and Alexander) are unexpectedly visited by a semi-estranged family member. They each deal with the disruption in different ways based on their personality and circumstances, which was very interesting to see play out.⁠
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The mystery itself was confusing and a little convoluted. It felt like the whole purpose of this book was to set up the next one. To be fair, it worked. The stakes got very high in the last chapter or so. I’m very interested in what’s about to happen in Book 4!⁠
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The audiobook is narrated by Jodie Harris. She did a fabulous job bringing Saffron's adventures to life.

A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets is filled with intrigue, plots, poison, and murder. I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and setting. The audible was fun as well.

So when are they gonna make the Saffron Everleigh series into a Masterpiece Mystery?

Kate Khavari's 1920s London historical mystery series just gets better and better. In this installment, Ashton turns to Saffron to help clear his brother, who's suspected in the death of a man he met on a train. But it's just the beginning of a complex case that balloons into something much bigger. Society and Secrets is truly firing on all cylinders, serving up post-war intrigue, social commentary, more diversity (with a small role for two South Asian* characters I hope we'll see more of), *and* a little romance, along with the sleuthing.

Jodie Harris' vibrant narration brings a full cast of characters to life (I maintain audio is the best way to consume this series). Yes, Dr. Michael Lee is back, and Elizabeth's brother Nick also comes on the scene. Khavari keeps things moving at a good clip (pacing was my complaint with book 1). And if you're a stickler, I only caught one non-Britishism (windshield instead of windscreen).

The Epilogue provides the set-up for book 3, I just hope we don't have to wait a full year to get it! (But I know how these things go).

*assumed to be South Asian based on Datta as their surname

In 1923 London, botanical researcher Saffron becomes entangled in a poisonous web after her love interest’s brother is accused of murdering a Russian scientist. As more researchers fall victim, Saffron courts peril when she goes undercover in a government lab to reveal the killer.

Fast-paced and fun, this novel has a varied cast of likable characters and plenty of villains to choose from. It reads more like a thriller than a mystery, with international intrigue at its core. I enjoyed the audiobook narration.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

With how the second book ended in the Saffron Everleigh series, I couldn’t wait to dive into book three. I felt like this had a different vibe to the first two books focusing more on the character relationship developments with the mystery being more of a subplot. This isn’t a bad thing, just different from what I was expecting. Saffron had to navigate challenges between her relationships with Lee and Alexander and ultimately determine what type of relationship she would like to have with each of them. I did love Saffron’s roommate, Elizabeth, having a larger role in the story, though her brother left something to be desired. We got to know so much more about her, and I love that she stands her own ground. Her character had a lot of rich development. It was also interesting to see how Khavari navigated having a larger cast of characters to keep track of, and overall, I think Khavari did great with this. I did appreciate the mystery itself as well. It was engaging and kept me guessing as to the final culprit. I also continue to enjoy the use of science throughout the books. I also feel that the narrator, Jodie Harris, continued to do a great job bringing these quirky characters to life. I especially loved her renditions of Saffron and Elizabeth as both women have such distinct personalities. Overall, I would recommend picking this book and series up.

Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, for the free audiobook for review.

Jodie Harris did an outstanding job of bringing Saffron to life in this book. The tension, the characters' frustrations, and the suspense are palpable, drawing me into the story with every turn of the page. The challenges of the patriarchal system at that time are skillfully portrayed, with Elizabeth and Saffron both striving for independence and defying their families. It's a powerful ode to women finding their voices and proving their capabilities in pursuing careers. This cozy mystery is not only a delightful read but also offers a unique blend of botany academia (yes, it's a thing!) and romance, making it a truly engaging and multifaceted story.

Having really enjoyed the first two in this series, I was happy to get an ARC of the audiobook (Thanks NetGalley!).

The book picks up only a couple weeks after the second one ends. Saffron is back in university and seemingly single when Alexander approaches her asking for her assistance in order to prove his brother’s innocence. Minor spoilers ahead!

Having not liked Alexander’s change of character at the end of the second book, I was happy to see that he felt more like himself in this book. His secrets and the reason for keeping them made sense.

I have a soft spot for Saffron, however, there were times in this book where she felt incredibly clueless. From the first interaction, I guessed correctly about Nick. Throughout the book, she was more suspicious of the men who had a track record of saving her life than any new guy who shows up in this book which felt very unlike her.

80% of the action happens in the last 20% of the book, and whilst I really enjoyed it, it further cemented the thought I had in the middle of the book which was that it felt a bit slow.

Overall, this was a good book. It did feel like the botany had less of a focus and the pacing could use a little bit of work but I enjoyed it! I also really enjoyed Eliza being more involved.

Not sure how I feel about the epilogue ending. Unlike the cliffhanger ending in book 2, this one didn’t really make me excited for the next book.

E-arc provided by Netgalley

This series is one of the only historical fictions that I enjoy and I love all of the plant information and mushroom information in this one, but I find myself caring more about the characters than the mystery because I didn't find the mystery very compelling in this one but overall I enjoyed this and will be looking forward to book 4!

I received this as an audiobook review.

Saffron is back in book 3 of the Saffron Everleigh Mysteries with Jodie Harris as the narrator. Harris also narrated the first and second books of the series so it was nice having the consistency. I had no issues with Harris as the narrator and listened to all three in audiobook format. The audiobook can take a bit more concentration to keep everyone straight and follow along with what the characters are doing but if you are familiar with the characters already, there should be no issue falling into step as Saffron returns from Paris.

Saffron, incredibly intelligent and impervious to societal norms, forges through yet another murder mystery. Book 3 provides secrets, scientists, suitors and sinister spores!

Settle in for the mystery to be solved and I look forward to Saffron continuing as a sleuthing botanist as to put her fascinating knowledge to use heading to Ellington in book 4!

My recommendation is to read the books in order so that you have the foundation laid as to what is going on in each book, plot wise and for character development. Enjoy the setting of 1923 London as you discover clues to solve the murders.

Thank you to the author, Kate Khavari, NetGalley and the publisher Dreamscape Media, for the opportunity to read this book. I received an advance review audiobook for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The book is set to publish June 4, 2024!
#ABotanistsGuidetoSocietyandSecrets #NetGalley

A Botanist’s Guide to Society and Secrets by Kate Khavari is brilliant! Saffron is a highly educated and well-respected botanist. While she is settling back into things from her trip to Paris, her world is upended by a series of events starting with Alexander seeking her assistance. Before long, Saffron finds herself investigating another murder. Her intelligence and quick wit make her sought out by more than one person and she finds herself in the thick of the investigation. I love that she is capable, smart, determined, unwilling to back away from her principles and beliefs, all while remaining tender hearted and caring. I loved seeing her challenge Alexander, stand up to Nick and her family, and come alongside Elizabeth for whatever adventure awaits them. I am already looking forward to the next book in the series!
I thoroughly enjoyed the narration by Jodie Harris. The characters were well represented and effectively brought the story to life in my mind as I listened.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

What I found most captivating about the novel is its richly developed characters and the intricate relationships that drive the story forward. Saffron's determination to uncover the truth, even at great personal risk, showcases her strength and resilience as a protagonist. The dynamic between Saffron, Alexander, and Nick keeps readers guessing until the very end, while the atmospheric setting of 1920s London adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.

Overall, "The Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets" is a compelling read that will delight fans of historical mysteries.

Also kudos to the narrator that never fails, their voice is extremely soothing to listen to even for 12 hours consecutively and they did an amazing job at showing emotions of the characters of any time. It was also very clear which character was speaking, which can often be a problem for me in audiobooks, but not this time!

Kate Khavari’s A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets is a masterful blend of historical mystery, romance, and botanical intrigue that will captivate readers from start to finish. Set in the vibrant and tumultuous backdrop of 1923 London, this novel weaves a tale of suspense and secrets that is as beautifully layered as the plants Saffron Everleigh studies.

Saffron Everleigh, a brilliant botanical researcher, returns from Paris to find herself entangled in a web of murder and deceit. Her former love interest, Alexander Ashton, needs her help to clear his brother Adrian’s name after a Russian scientist is found poisoned in Adrian’s train compartment. Saffron’s expertise and curiosity make her the perfect protagonist to navigate the complexities of this case. Khavari’s portrayal of Saffron is nuanced and compelling; she is a character of intellect, bravery, and depth, whose personal and professional lives are intricately intertwined.

The novel excels in its rich historical detail and atmospheric setting. Khavari’s depiction of 1923 London is vivid and immersive, transporting readers to a time of scientific discovery and societal change. The tension between the old world and the new, between scientific inquiry and societal norms, is palpable throughout the story.

Saffron’s investigation leads her into the heart of governmental laboratories, where the stakes are higher than she initially realizes. The mystery deepens with the introduction of Elizabeth’s war-hero brother, Nick, whose sudden interest in Saffron and his mysterious connections add layers of intrigue. Khavari skillfully balances the multiple plotlines, ensuring that each revelation adds to the overall suspense and complexity of the narrative.

One of the novel’s strengths is its intricate character dynamics. Saffron’s unresolved feelings for Alexander, coupled with the secrets he keeps, add a rich emotional layer to the story. The arrival of Nick introduces a romantic tension that is both thrilling and poignant. These relationships are handled with a deft touch, making the characters' interactions feel authentic and deeply engaging.

The plot is expertly paced, with each chapter revealing new clues and raising the stakes. The mystery of the poisoned scientist is intricately plotted, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Khavari’s use of botanical knowledge is not only integral to the plot but also adds a unique and fascinating dimension to the story.

A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets* is a stellar addition to historical mystery fiction. Khavari’s writing is elegant and evocative, her characters are richly drawn, and the plot is gripping from the first page to the last. This book is a perfect read for anyone who loves a well-crafted mystery with a strong, intelligent heroine at its center.

A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets is a five-star read that stands out for its exceptional storytelling, rich historical context, and compelling characters. Kate Khavari has crafted a novel that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant, making it a must-read for fans of historical mysteries and botanical adventures.

Content warning: murder, people being drugged, people being poisoned, kidnapping

Picking up the plot just as Saffron arrives back in London from her trip to Paris, readers are quickly swept up into Saffron's world of plants, poisons, and perhaps a few potential romantic options. Huzzah! Readers (and Saffron) are finally given more details into Alexander Ashton's history to help piece together his story a bit more. I really enjoyed Elizabeth in this one (much more than the previous books) and appreciate that she was given more time to shine in solving these mysteries.

While I enjoyed the mystery of the floral bouquets in the second book more, this case that needed to be solved was interesting and the high stakes of it is clearly setting up some major plot points for future books in this series (especially given how A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets ends). I was hoping for more of Dr. Lee though, hopefully he'll play a bigger role in the next book?

Jodie Harris is back to narrate the third book in the Saffron Everleigh Mystery series and as with the previous two books in the series, does a great job. I also appreciate that Dreamscape Media has stuck with the same audiobook narrator for the whole series so far. Though I still have the same wish that there were unique narrators for each POV.

Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley and Dreamscape Media in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Kate Khavari for providing me with a complimentary digital audiobook ARC for A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets coming out June 4, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I was really excited to receive this book! I love this series! I think Saffron is a really strong, bright character who knows what she wants in life. I was a little disappointed with this book though. I was obsessed with the second book and I really thought it would be progressing more based off of that book. This book turned a very different direction and I didn’t love it as much. I really thought this book would have more of Dr. Lee, but he was only in a little part of it. I’m not a huge fan of Alexander or his brother. I didn’t care for Nick either. So I liked this book, but I wasn’t obsessed like with the other two books. I’m hoping there’s more books in the series. I thought the narrator was really good.

Saffron Everleigh Mystery #3
A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets
By Kate Khavari, narrated by Jodie Harris

In this third book in the series, Saffron Everleigh is just back from Paris to find that her best friend/roommate, Elizabeth, has been busy as usual. Nick, Elizabeth's brother, has turned up from who knows where, claiming to be working in the agriculture department but acting shady as all get out. It turns out that Saffron's love interest, Alexander, may know Nick from somewhere in his past but he won't fess up. Then there is the fact that Elizabeth has been dating her irksome boss and he's around much more than Saffron can tolerate.

Alexander had pressed Saffron to stop her crime investigating of the past but now he's had a change of heart because his brother Adrian is being investigated for the murder of a scientist. Alexander wants Saffron to use her connections to intercede for Adrian but that's like dangling a carrot in front of a greedy goat. Once another scientist is found murdered and Nick requests Saffron's assistance infiltrating a lab, the game is on! We get to see many characters from the first two books and meet some new and interesting characters in this one.

Things are heating up between Saffron and Alexander, too. Their time apart just made it clearer to each of them how much they want to be together. Not only that, Alexander is actually willingly helping Saffron with some of her snooping. Elizabeth is having problems with her boss/boyfriend but that's HIS problem. Elizabeth, foul of mouth and always ready to jump into trouble at the drop of a hat, isn't a good choice to anger.

Lots going on here and much of it has to do with plants, of course. Saffron's afraid her late dad may have had something to do with this lab and the use of plants for very bad reasons. She'll do whatever she can to get to the bottom of these deaths and misuse of science, if she can do so. There are so many people to keep track of, so many pasts and presents events to sort out, and so many secrets, some due to the trauma of facing them and others for devious reasons. I think this is my favorite of the three books since I know this world now and the people in it. I suggest reading the books in order to better understand the characters and their motivations. This book ends with information that makes it clear there is at least one more book to come!

Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for this ARC.

Were back woth Saffron again in the throne installment of books. A Botansits Guide to Socity and Secrets picks up pretty much where book two ended. Which I enjoyed.
We getting more involmennt of Elizabeth in this book (Safgron's roomate) which was a nice addition.
In the latest book, Saffron is defending her brother (with the help of Alexander) in the questioning of a possible poisoning death. When I saw this book on Netgalley, I immediately applied for it, as I have loved the other two. Then preorder a copy for my shelf. I have emensley enjoyed Saffron's journey, and hope it continues.
Thank you netgalley for the ARC of A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets!

A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets by Kate Khavari and narrated by Jodie Harris is glorious. A wonderful historical mystery that follows botanist Saffron Everleigh as she battles against a soceity that wants to keep women out of the workplace and the ballot boxes

There were a lot of established characters in the book and the awesome character development has encouraged me to read the previous books in the series

Khavari has a real strength in placing characters in time and is authentic in her character development, especially against the backdrop of the aftermath of WW1, which naturally has a huge impact on characters behaviour and psyche

A truly wonderful book and a fantastic blend of characters and storylines. This series is straight on to my TBR

Thank you to Netgalley, Dreamscape Media and Kate Khavari for this phenomenal ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape media for the ALC

Yet another great entertaining read by Kate Khavari. This is the third book in the series and therefore I won't go further into the plot, but I can say that it's just as good as the prior books. I really liked meeting all the characters again and loved their interactions.