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Saffron Everleigh Mystery #3
A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets
Brilliant botanist Saffron Everleigh is ready for her next thrilling adventure in the newest installment of Kate Khavari’s mesmerizing historical mystery series.
“A cleverly plotted puzzle” (Ashley Weaver) in the vein of Opium and Absinthe, this is perfect for fans of Rhys Bowen and Sujata Massey.
London, 1923. Returning from Paris, botanical researcher Saffron Everleigh finds that her former love interest Alexander Ashton’s brother, Adrian, is being investigated for murder. A Russian scientist working for the English government has been poisoned, and expired in Adrian’s train compartment. Alexander asks Saffron to put in a good word for Adrian with Inspector Green. Despite her unresolved feelings for Alexander, Saffron begins to unravel mysteries surrounding the dead scientist.
As if a murder case weren’t enough, her best friend Elizabeth’s war-hero brother, Nick, arrives in town and takes an immediate interest in Saffron. Saffron learns Alexander has been keeping secrets from her, including a connection to Nick, who Saffron and Elizabeth begin to suspect is more than he seems.
When another scientist is found dead, Saffron agrees to go undercover at the government laboratory. Risking her career and her safety, she learns there are many more interested parties and dangerous secrets to uncover than she’d realized. But some secrets, Saffron will find, are better left undiscovered.
“A cleverly plotted puzzle” (Ashley Weaver) in the vein of Opium and Absinthe, this is perfect for fans of Rhys Bowen and Sujata Massey.
London, 1923. Returning from Paris, botanical researcher Saffron Everleigh finds that her former love interest Alexander Ashton’s brother, Adrian, is being investigated for murder. A Russian scientist working for the English government has been poisoned, and expired in Adrian’s train compartment. Alexander asks Saffron to put in a good word for Adrian with Inspector Green. Despite her unresolved feelings for Alexander, Saffron begins to unravel mysteries surrounding the dead scientist.
As if a murder case weren’t enough, her best friend Elizabeth’s war-hero brother, Nick, arrives in town and takes an immediate interest in Saffron. Saffron learns Alexander has been keeping secrets from her, including a connection to Nick, who Saffron and Elizabeth begin to suspect is more than he seems.
When another scientist is found dead, Saffron agrees to go undercover at the government laboratory. Risking her career and her safety, she learns there are many more interested parties and dangerous secrets to uncover than she’d realized. But some secrets, Saffron will find, are better left undiscovered.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews
June 4, 2024
The third book in the series and I have read them all. I remember in my review of the previous book wondering whether events were building up to a love triangle. Well that thought was dealt with instantly at the beginning of this book. No such doubts allowed for Saffron Everleigh! She makes her choice as though there never was a choice at all.
This book moves slowly and the intrigue mounts a little beyond the bounds of credibility. Nick in particular is impossible and when Bill popped up towards the end I laughed. It appears he will be playing a larger role in the next book so I will have to prepare myself.
Sorry if I sound as if I did not enjoy this book. I actually liked it well enough and will definitely seek out #4 when it comes along. The author has already signified the direction it is going to take and it sounds like fun.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This book moves slowly and the intrigue mounts a little beyond the bounds of credibility. Nick in particular is impossible and when Bill popped up towards the end I laughed. It appears he will be playing a larger role in the next book so I will have to prepare myself.
Sorry if I sound as if I did not enjoy this book. I actually liked it well enough and will definitely seek out #4 when it comes along. The author has already signified the direction it is going to take and it sounds like fun.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 13, 2024
***Update: my least favorite of the series. Unsure if I’ll read more. I might be in the minority here but the love triangle was so unnecessary in book 2 and Alexander is an absolute boor. His character gets zero stars. He always felt whiny and not supportive of Saffron. In book 2 he threatened her career if I am remembering correctly. Lee was the best for her and her character and shoving Alexander back in the picture was it for me. I also felt there was very little growth for Saffron. Eliza was my favorite as always.
Very much looking forward to this book. All I can say is Dr. Lee needs to be in this book in a very significant way. He embraces all that she is rather than trying to stamp out her fire. Lee is the best character and best man for her. Period.
Very much looking forward to this book. All I can say is Dr. Lee needs to be in this book in a very significant way. He embraces all that she is rather than trying to stamp out her fire. Lee is the best character and best man for her. Period.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2024
More twists than a pretzel!
Once again Saffron Everleigh, now a full time researcher with the University of London, is thrust into the heart of another murder inquiry. This time two men who work at a government run agricultural research facility have separately been found dead—seemingly poisoned. But what has caused it? Saffron is an expert in poisonous plants. The time is post World War I. Countries are scrambling for their place on the world stage, to feed and house their populations. After a conference in Paris she is more than ever aware of her research being a dichotomy between medical and agricultural areas, and the dangerous offshoots both are capable of.
Her more than friend Alexander Ashton asks her to intercede with Detective Green on behalf of his brother who’s been innocently caught up in the investigation. As he’s disapproved of her previous involvements in such goings on neither of them can avoid Alexander’s asking this of her as hypocritical.
As it is Detective Green gets in touch with Saffron as there are details which are close to Saffron’s area of expertise. Her inquiries lead her to some puzzling facts. She enlists the help of her close friend Dr. Michel Lee.
It seems there are deeper waters involved when her dead fiancée, and her flat mate’s brother, Nick Hale turns up. Nick works with the ‘Agricultural Ministry.’ Strange things are happening and food security is part of it, or not?
On top all this there’s the matter of Alfie Tennison, who runs an illegal gambling den. What is his role in all this?
An exciting and deadly twist to Saffron’s continuing story. If you’ve followed her journey this is of course a must read. If your new to the Everleigh Mysteries I’d recommend starting with the first in the series.
A Crooked Lane ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Once again Saffron Everleigh, now a full time researcher with the University of London, is thrust into the heart of another murder inquiry. This time two men who work at a government run agricultural research facility have separately been found dead—seemingly poisoned. But what has caused it? Saffron is an expert in poisonous plants. The time is post World War I. Countries are scrambling for their place on the world stage, to feed and house their populations. After a conference in Paris she is more than ever aware of her research being a dichotomy between medical and agricultural areas, and the dangerous offshoots both are capable of.
Her more than friend Alexander Ashton asks her to intercede with Detective Green on behalf of his brother who’s been innocently caught up in the investigation. As he’s disapproved of her previous involvements in such goings on neither of them can avoid Alexander’s asking this of her as hypocritical.
As it is Detective Green gets in touch with Saffron as there are details which are close to Saffron’s area of expertise. Her inquiries lead her to some puzzling facts. She enlists the help of her close friend Dr. Michel Lee.
It seems there are deeper waters involved when her dead fiancée, and her flat mate’s brother, Nick Hale turns up. Nick works with the ‘Agricultural Ministry.’ Strange things are happening and food security is part of it, or not?
On top all this there’s the matter of Alfie Tennison, who runs an illegal gambling den. What is his role in all this?
An exciting and deadly twist to Saffron’s continuing story. If you’ve followed her journey this is of course a must read. If your new to the Everleigh Mysteries I’d recommend starting with the first in the series.
A Crooked Lane ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
January 20, 2025
This is book three in this series but I haven’t read the previous books and still enjoyed this one a lot. It’s a cozy historical mystery about a female scientist - what more is there to need? Saffron is surprised when her colleague asks for her her help clearing his brother from a murder he is being suspected for. She’s shocked because he has judged her for investigating prior murders. It appears that the murder victim was poisoned in some way her expertise in plants seems convenient. It is quickly apparent that this murder is about more than appears at first glance and Saffron finds herself deeper in investigating that she expected. The romance subplot was interesting and I found myself routing for them both even if they weren’t great communicators. The book ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and I definitely will be keeping an eye out for the next book.
April 2, 2025
March 2025: Rereading before I dive into the ARC of the next book. I forgot the amazing ending. What a roller coaster!
January 2024: Saffron is back and the threads connecting her work to government research are explored in this incredible third installment of this fantastic series. We've seen Saffron confront the possibility that her research could be misused before. While she continues to resist aiding the government, when her friend (and sometimes love interest) Alexander comes to her for help defending her brother who is being questioned in a poisoning death, she's dragged into a larger plot that involves a government research lab.
This book picks up almost exactly where the last one left off, which is incredibly satisfying. The one missing piece is what happened during Saffron's time in France for an academic conference. The details of this are sprinkled throughout this book. This story brings Elizabeth, Saffron's roommate, into main character territory and some chapters are even written from her point of view. Elizabeth's brother and a sibling duo from the chemistry department also join the cast (one had a minor role in the last book). Growing a cast over the course of a few books is a great tactic - the reader doesn't have to juggle too many new names at any point. At the same time, there is more development in Alexander's character and we get to see some of Saffron's family as well.
I was provided an advanced copy, but have preordered a physical copy, as I want the books in this series permanently on my shelves.
January 2024: Saffron is back and the threads connecting her work to government research are explored in this incredible third installment of this fantastic series. We've seen Saffron confront the possibility that her research could be misused before. While she continues to resist aiding the government, when her friend (and sometimes love interest) Alexander comes to her for help defending her brother who is being questioned in a poisoning death, she's dragged into a larger plot that involves a government research lab.
This book picks up almost exactly where the last one left off, which is incredibly satisfying. The one missing piece is what happened during Saffron's time in France for an academic conference. The details of this are sprinkled throughout this book. This story brings Elizabeth, Saffron's roommate, into main character territory and some chapters are even written from her point of view. Elizabeth's brother and a sibling duo from the chemistry department also join the cast (one had a minor role in the last book). Growing a cast over the course of a few books is a great tactic - the reader doesn't have to juggle too many new names at any point. At the same time, there is more development in Alexander's character and we get to see some of Saffron's family as well.
I was provided an advanced copy, but have preordered a physical copy, as I want the books in this series permanently on my shelves.
October 2, 2025
Typical cozy murder mystery. Very similar to books 1 & 2. A bit anticlimactic as our characters keep being put in dire situations but because it’s cozy fiction it’s pretty obvious a way out will be found. My number one complaint about cozy fiction in general is how hard it is to create drama or suspense that really matters. But for those that are looking for the typical cozy murder mystery they are likely to be good with this one.
I do wish there was more Botany in this one. Cause bugs are icky; if interesting. The complexity of some of our character relationships was quite well done. It was interesting to see the dynamics and inter-connections that were built between all without feeling convenient or cheap. We also get more about Alexander’s war trauma which furthered his character development and endeared me to him ever more.
This does leave off on a cliff hanger into book 4; so be forewarned and ready.
I do wish there was more Botany in this one. Cause bugs are icky; if interesting. The complexity of some of our character relationships was quite well done. It was interesting to see the dynamics and inter-connections that were built between all without feeling convenient or cheap. We also get more about Alexander’s war trauma which furthered his character development and endeared me to him ever more.
This does leave off on a cliff hanger into book 4; so be forewarned and ready.
May 9, 2025
This was good, but much like the second novel in the series, it was nothing that really pushed it over the edge of standing out.
I like Saffron, but there was a lot less botany than I wanted. I did love the insects, though!
A really great quote:
"You may exit my life and stay gone from it this time"
Ultimately a solid 3 star read.
I like Saffron, but there was a lot less botany than I wanted. I did love the insects, though!
A really great quote:
"You may exit my life and stay gone from it this time"
Ultimately a solid 3 star read.
April 28, 2024
My review might contain a few minor spoilers. No big revelations or such, but some character dynamics and trends throughout the story are described in order to support my opinion and arguments.
~~~~~~~~~
The cover, the blurb and the ending of the second book convinced me to give the third book a try as well.
Sadly, I had to push myself through the first 200 pages. Only then the characters and plot managed to draw me in again. It's only from there on that the story starts showing the distinctive elements I recalled enjoying in books 1 and 2. In this book, a lot of new characters are being introduced and the storyline is also a lot more complex. It might be that this causes the slower pacing.
The investigative aspect of the storyline wasn’t how I expected it to be. Only halfway through, the characters finally start making progress in their search. Before that, there were things happening but it felt more like these were irrelevant little things instead of main story elements. The things they did discover throughout the book often felt like random stuff they suddenly stumbled upon as well. The general credibility of the story just didn’t sit right with me.
I did like the way Alexander and Saffron finally opened up some more to each other and tried to overcome their differences. Even though I didn’t feel the chemistry, I was happy they finally started to behave like responsible and understanding adults in their relationship. Saffron and Lee on the other hand, it felt like she was just using him when she needed his help, instead of trying to sustain a friendly relationship with him.
My favourite character was, without doubt, Elizabeth. I love how she got her own POV in a few chapters and played a more prominent role in this book. I feel like I also really got to know her better. Her character also had at least some depth. Saffron on the other hand had barely any character growth.
The last 70 pages are suddenly high paced and make you want to keep on reading. There is action and tension, there are new revelations and twists, secrets get exposed, … everything you were waiting for. But this does not outweigh how the first half of the story kind of disappointed me.
Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for this eARC.
~~~~~~~~~
The cover, the blurb and the ending of the second book convinced me to give the third book a try as well.
Sadly, I had to push myself through the first 200 pages. Only then the characters and plot managed to draw me in again. It's only from there on that the story starts showing the distinctive elements I recalled enjoying in books 1 and 2. In this book, a lot of new characters are being introduced and the storyline is also a lot more complex. It might be that this causes the slower pacing.
The investigative aspect of the storyline wasn’t how I expected it to be. Only halfway through, the characters finally start making progress in their search. Before that, there were things happening but it felt more like these were irrelevant little things instead of main story elements. The things they did discover throughout the book often felt like random stuff they suddenly stumbled upon as well. The general credibility of the story just didn’t sit right with me.
I did like the way Alexander and Saffron finally opened up some more to each other and tried to overcome their differences. Even though I didn’t feel the chemistry, I was happy they finally started to behave like responsible and understanding adults in their relationship. Saffron and Lee on the other hand, it felt like she was just using him when she needed his help, instead of trying to sustain a friendly relationship with him.
My favourite character was, without doubt, Elizabeth. I love how she got her own POV in a few chapters and played a more prominent role in this book. I feel like I also really got to know her better. Her character also had at least some depth. Saffron on the other hand had barely any character growth.
The last 70 pages are suddenly high paced and make you want to keep on reading. There is action and tension, there are new revelations and twists, secrets get exposed, … everything you were waiting for. But this does not outweigh how the first half of the story kind of disappointed me.
Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for this eARC.
March 30, 2024
I was very excited to reconnect with the wonderful Saffron Everleigh, however I found myself feeling Saffron really didn't show up to the party. I don't feel like Saffron grew or developed in this installment and she kind of fell flat for me overall. Anyone could have taken her place in the story and it wouldn't have made a difference. Her only characteristic in this was a continuation of struggles she had in the previous book - particularly about her Dad's history and governmental concerns. That plotline is just not interesting enough to carry this series and I feel like we really need more character work to help things along.
Alexander was similarly boring for me, which is strange to say since we did learn a lot more about it. While that was nice, it didn't feel emotional or impactful - there was too much of a disconnect and it just ended up feeling like I was being given information rather than truly getting to know him on a deeper level. I am happy that he and Saffron worked out their differences, but that also didn't feel entirely genuine. Their relationship felt unearned and we lost of lot of the spark between them.
I will say that Eliza was well done and I loved the depth and complexity we got with her in this story. It was nice to see her play a bigger role, but her struggles and development are just not enough to excuse the lack of interest in our main two characters. Having her brother, Nick, involved was also a nice aspect and I do find him quite interesting.
The plot was, unfortunately, both confusing and boring to me. In the previous two books, I feel like the mysteries were a bit more complex. We had little reveals and a few twists along the way that really keep you interested and entertained. That wasn't the case in this story. It felt like we waited until the very end to get any monumental information and I didn't even find it particularly satisfying. I would not have minded a lackluster plot had the characters been more interesting. But, this one just fell flat all around.
I think this book feels the most out of place in the series and I hope this was just a case of something like "middle book syndrome". I'm very interested in the direction that was teased for the next book and I hope it's much more similar to the first 2 books in this series because I definitely enjoyed those ones quite a lot.
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
Alexander was similarly boring for me, which is strange to say since we did learn a lot more about it. While that was nice, it didn't feel emotional or impactful - there was too much of a disconnect and it just ended up feeling like I was being given information rather than truly getting to know him on a deeper level. I am happy that he and Saffron worked out their differences, but that also didn't feel entirely genuine. Their relationship felt unearned and we lost of lot of the spark between them.
I will say that Eliza was well done and I loved the depth and complexity we got with her in this story. It was nice to see her play a bigger role, but her struggles and development are just not enough to excuse the lack of interest in our main two characters. Having her brother, Nick, involved was also a nice aspect and I do find him quite interesting.
The plot was, unfortunately, both confusing and boring to me. In the previous two books, I feel like the mysteries were a bit more complex. We had little reveals and a few twists along the way that really keep you interested and entertained. That wasn't the case in this story. It felt like we waited until the very end to get any monumental information and I didn't even find it particularly satisfying. I would not have minded a lackluster plot had the characters been more interesting. But, this one just fell flat all around.
I think this book feels the most out of place in the series and I hope this was just a case of something like "middle book syndrome". I'm very interested in the direction that was teased for the next book and I hope it's much more similar to the first 2 books in this series because I definitely enjoyed those ones quite a lot.
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
June 5, 2024
I’ve adored the previous two Saffron Everleigh books, so I was incredibly excited to read this one, especially with the title! Society! Secrets!
Sadly, this installment of Saffron Everleigh just didn’t gel for me and I ended up only being able to really engage with certain parts of the book and only liking certain aspects of the book instead of engaging with and liking the whole of it.
What did I like? The characters, mostly. How can you not love Kate Khavari’s colorful and unique cast of characters? She writes them all so well in all of their complexities, gives them all a full voice, and lets them all play their parts in the story. You can’t help but to become invested in them and delight in the delicious dialogue Khavari writes for them.
What did I have issues with? Really, it was the pacing, of all things. Society and Secrets not only takes time to get going, but it takes time to really engage fully, and even once it’s going fully the story is full of stops and stutters that just made this story feel really uneven.
Do I still recommend Society and Secrets despite the low rating? Yes I do, because I’m not going to give up on Saffron Everleigh due to one book that didn’t meet my standards. For all I know I’m just not having a good reading day. Since I know we’re getting at least one more book (if not more) out of Khavari about Miss Saffron, I recommend reading it because you need to read these books in order to understand the overall story arc.
I was provided a copy of this title by NetGalley and the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. This review is rated three starts or less so it will not be appearing on my social media. Thank you.
File Under: Book Series/Historical Fiction/Historical Romance//Mystery
Sadly, this installment of Saffron Everleigh just didn’t gel for me and I ended up only being able to really engage with certain parts of the book and only liking certain aspects of the book instead of engaging with and liking the whole of it.
What did I like? The characters, mostly. How can you not love Kate Khavari’s colorful and unique cast of characters? She writes them all so well in all of their complexities, gives them all a full voice, and lets them all play their parts in the story. You can’t help but to become invested in them and delight in the delicious dialogue Khavari writes for them.
What did I have issues with? Really, it was the pacing, of all things. Society and Secrets not only takes time to get going, but it takes time to really engage fully, and even once it’s going fully the story is full of stops and stutters that just made this story feel really uneven.
Do I still recommend Society and Secrets despite the low rating? Yes I do, because I’m not going to give up on Saffron Everleigh due to one book that didn’t meet my standards. For all I know I’m just not having a good reading day. Since I know we’re getting at least one more book (if not more) out of Khavari about Miss Saffron, I recommend reading it because you need to read these books in order to understand the overall story arc.
I was provided a copy of this title by NetGalley and the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. This review is rated three starts or less so it will not be appearing on my social media. Thank you.
File Under: Book Series/Historical Fiction/Historical Romance//Mystery
September 1, 2024
I'll give it 3&1/2 stars because the ending sucked. Maybe there's going to be another book after this one?
November 29, 2024
I'm really enjoying this STEMinist series! The main characters are well-written and the plots are fast-paced and interesting. One of my favorite parts of each book is the author's note. I love learning about the true historical details behind the story. Cannot wait for the next book to come out!
April 5, 2025
I’m tremendously disappointed. The first book was captivating. The second book was outstanding and my favorite by far. However, this one was uninteresting, passionless and monotonous. The author had us on cloud nine with *A Botanist Guide to Flowers and Fatality* (book two) then swept the cloud underneath from us, crash landing. At every aspect I try to look at the book it’s negative. Let’s start at the plot.
It had such a magnificent introduction. Alexander needing Saffron assistance to basically exonerate his brother from murder right after telling her not to involve herself in police matters. However, this plot falls flat and it goes into an entirely different direction. I was under the impression that we were going to get to know Alexander’s brother. Not the case. He is mentioned here and there and he has one conversation with Saffron. Then theres Saffron and the other characters.
Every character was lifeless. Saffron is known to be witty, it’s part of her charm. We don’t see any of it. Her interactions with everyone was dry. Alexander was a red flag. He wasn’t like that in the first book. I found him to be controlling towards Saffron. I use to like Alexander more than Lee for Saffron but I’m not sure anymore. The book didn’t really explain why she chose Alexander over Lee either which is frustrating. How do we know she didn’t merely choose Alexander over Lee because she spent more time with Alexander? Now, we do see Lee throughout the book but not much. When he was mentioned, he didn’t have the same appeal.
I’m going to continue with the series with hope that book four is at least better than “A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets”.
It had such a magnificent introduction. Alexander needing Saffron assistance to basically exonerate his brother from murder right after telling her not to involve herself in police matters. However, this plot falls flat and it goes into an entirely different direction. I was under the impression that we were going to get to know Alexander’s brother. Not the case. He is mentioned here and there and he has one conversation with Saffron. Then theres Saffron and the other characters.
Every character was lifeless. Saffron is known to be witty, it’s part of her charm. We don’t see any of it. Her interactions with everyone was dry. Alexander was a red flag. He wasn’t like that in the first book. I found him to be controlling towards Saffron. I use to like Alexander more than Lee for Saffron but I’m not sure anymore. The book didn’t really explain why she chose Alexander over Lee either which is frustrating. How do we know she didn’t merely choose Alexander over Lee because she spent more time with Alexander? Now, we do see Lee throughout the book but not much. When he was mentioned, he didn’t have the same appeal.
I’m going to continue with the series with hope that book four is at least better than “A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets”.
June 12, 2024
Saffron Everleigh has just returned home from Paris and a conference. She's upset, though the details aren't revealed till later in the novel. Instead, Saffron is immediately asked by Alexander Ashton, who had given her so much grief about her investigative activities in the previous installment, to help his brother Adrian, who is accused of murdering a Russian scientist.
Despite her misgivings, Saffron follows through with Inspector Green, and finds out that the scientist, who worked for the British government, had been travelling in the same train compartment as Adrian. The man had collapsed and Adrian's playboy lifestyle and Greek accent made him the police's natural, and main, suspect (*heavy sarcasm*).
Interestingly, Saffron's best friend and roommate Elizabeth receives an unwelcome surprise when her older brother Nick arrives soon after, and seems to find Saffron very interesting. A war hero, Nick now works for the Agricultural Ministry, which seems an odd fit for the man. During an uncomfortable dinner at the women's apartment, Saffron realizes that Nick and Alexander know each other from the War, but neither man is willing to spill.
When another scientist is found dead, Nick drops his urbane act, and convinces Saffron to go undercover at the government facility where the two dead men worked. She meets a colourful cast of researchers who are territorial over their work and other things, and slowly finds out what is really going on there. Also, she and Alexander begin to work through some of their personal issues together.
I have been really enjoying this series. I like the time period, the commentary about prickly male scientists jealous of their privileges and the combination of reluctance and horror over having to share anything with a smart woman, and the influence the Great War has had on society and technology.
Saffron continues to be likeable, and adept in her field, but also wonderfully conflicted about how work like hers is being applied. This has kept her from accruing more status in the university as well as in her field, but her principles drive her forward in this case, as she begins to unravel the secrets around the work performed in the government lab.
Elizabeth gains more prominence in this book, which is great, as she wrestles with her family issues. I like the way the author has gradually deepened and widened the cast of characters in this series, while also having Saffron and Elizabeth wrestle with more professional and personal issues.
I am eagerly awaiting the next entry, especially after the ominous ending of this satisfying mystery.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Crooked Lane Books for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Despite her misgivings, Saffron follows through with Inspector Green, and finds out that the scientist, who worked for the British government, had been travelling in the same train compartment as Adrian. The man had collapsed and Adrian's playboy lifestyle and Greek accent made him the police's natural, and main, suspect (*heavy sarcasm*).
Interestingly, Saffron's best friend and roommate Elizabeth receives an unwelcome surprise when her older brother Nick arrives soon after, and seems to find Saffron very interesting. A war hero, Nick now works for the Agricultural Ministry, which seems an odd fit for the man. During an uncomfortable dinner at the women's apartment, Saffron realizes that Nick and Alexander know each other from the War, but neither man is willing to spill.
When another scientist is found dead, Nick drops his urbane act, and convinces Saffron to go undercover at the government facility where the two dead men worked. She meets a colourful cast of researchers who are territorial over their work and other things, and slowly finds out what is really going on there. Also, she and Alexander begin to work through some of their personal issues together.
I have been really enjoying this series. I like the time period, the commentary about prickly male scientists jealous of their privileges and the combination of reluctance and horror over having to share anything with a smart woman, and the influence the Great War has had on society and technology.
Saffron continues to be likeable, and adept in her field, but also wonderfully conflicted about how work like hers is being applied. This has kept her from accruing more status in the university as well as in her field, but her principles drive her forward in this case, as she begins to unravel the secrets around the work performed in the government lab.
Elizabeth gains more prominence in this book, which is great, as she wrestles with her family issues. I like the way the author has gradually deepened and widened the cast of characters in this series, while also having Saffron and Elizabeth wrestle with more professional and personal issues.
I am eagerly awaiting the next entry, especially after the ominous ending of this satisfying mystery.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Crooked Lane Books for this ARC in exchange for my review.
June 21, 2024
Saffron Everleigh Mystery returns with another murder investigation in the world of biology (that's my extent of knowledge in the domain). We wouldn't normally think about the subdivisions in this domain, but God - there were so many. The author has made it so easy for a novice like me to understand the terminologies that the whole research on bacteria/mould/fungi was unambiguous.
Our botanical researcher protagonist is presented with an opportunity to investigate her Ex's brother, who is currently suspected of murder. No sooner has she stepped into the mystery, another Russian scientist turns dead. As she navigates through the tangling mystery, her safety, career and the lives of several other scientists seem to be at stake.
A lot of characters, sideline stories and plot twists will keep the brain cells of the reader engaged. The mystery was fairly interesting with layered obstacles along with a unique narrative style. The series has been promisingly good with each mystery.
Our botanical researcher protagonist is presented with an opportunity to investigate her Ex's brother, who is currently suspected of murder. No sooner has she stepped into the mystery, another Russian scientist turns dead. As she navigates through the tangling mystery, her safety, career and the lives of several other scientists seem to be at stake.
A lot of characters, sideline stories and plot twists will keep the brain cells of the reader engaged. The mystery was fairly interesting with layered obstacles along with a unique narrative style. The series has been promisingly good with each mystery.
August 1, 2024
A Botonist's Guide to Society and Secrets is the third installment of the Saffron Everleigh Mysteries and it's the best one yet! Saffron, her bestie Elizabeth, her love interest, Alexander and Elizabeth's brother, Nick, set off to prove Alexander's brother is innocent of murder. Along the way, they discover there is much more to the murder than it seems.
I love the characters in this series. Saffron is intelligent and tenacious, Elizabeth is feisty and strong, and Alexander has a good heart and truly cares for Saffron. It was interesting getting to know Elizabeth and Alexander's brothers. Do you want to know my favorite part?? Well, no spoilers, but I love that the cliffhanger ending means there will be more books coming in this series!
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, for early access to listen in exchange for an honest review. I LOVED it, and the narrator, Jodie Harris, did a brilliant job.
I love the characters in this series. Saffron is intelligent and tenacious, Elizabeth is feisty and strong, and Alexander has a good heart and truly cares for Saffron. It was interesting getting to know Elizabeth and Alexander's brothers. Do you want to know my favorite part?? Well, no spoilers, but I love that the cliffhanger ending means there will be more books coming in this series!
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, for early access to listen in exchange for an honest review. I LOVED it, and the narrator, Jodie Harris, did a brilliant job.
July 13, 2024
3.5/5 stars
I did think this was a bit more interesting than the second. It almost felt like setup for the next though - I'd hope to see more and more from Elizabeth in book four given how things played out for her in this one, for example.
I did think this was a bit more interesting than the second. It almost felt like setup for the next though - I'd hope to see more and more from Elizabeth in book four given how things played out for her in this one, for example.
July 3, 2024
I may have one more in me. This one started to drag a bit.
May 24, 2024
Kate Khavari's A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets is the third volume in the Saffron Everleigh historical mystery series, and it's every bit as good as the first two volumes. Khavari has been gradually sliding in some potential larger-scale problems to go with the specific mystery at the heart of each novel, so readers aren't just wondering whodunnit?, but are also waiting to see how the relationships among the continuing characters develop.
In one way or another, the longer-term problems probe the question of what it means to be female in England in the aftermath of WWI. Saffron, our central character, is determined to be a professor of botany as her father was, but her grandparents, who control the family's wealth, are becoming increasingly harsh in their efforts to get her out of London, into the family home, and married off to an appropriate man who can help build the family's wealth.
Saffron's childhood friend and current roommate, Elizabeth, is also seeking freedom to enjoy London life and to grasp every opportunity to enjoy herself. The one who is trying to prevent her emerging, more daring identity is her brother. And that brother has unresolved conflicts with Saffron's beau/friend Alexander (it varies regularly), who has asked Saffron to help prove his brother's innocence as he faces a murder charge...
The things I'm sharing here are set up for the novel, not revelations that come further into novel, so no worries about spoilers.
If you enjoy historical mysteries with plucky, intelligent, stubborn, female central characters, this is a series you'll want to check out. You can probably read the series (currently three volumes) in any order, but I would suggest reading them in order so you can watch the relationships between the recurring characters develop.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
In one way or another, the longer-term problems probe the question of what it means to be female in England in the aftermath of WWI. Saffron, our central character, is determined to be a professor of botany as her father was, but her grandparents, who control the family's wealth, are becoming increasingly harsh in their efforts to get her out of London, into the family home, and married off to an appropriate man who can help build the family's wealth.
Saffron's childhood friend and current roommate, Elizabeth, is also seeking freedom to enjoy London life and to grasp every opportunity to enjoy herself. The one who is trying to prevent her emerging, more daring identity is her brother. And that brother has unresolved conflicts with Saffron's beau/friend Alexander (it varies regularly), who has asked Saffron to help prove his brother's innocence as he faces a murder charge...
The things I'm sharing here are set up for the novel, not revelations that come further into novel, so no worries about spoilers.
If you enjoy historical mysteries with plucky, intelligent, stubborn, female central characters, this is a series you'll want to check out. You can probably read the series (currently three volumes) in any order, but I would suggest reading them in order so you can watch the relationships between the recurring characters develop.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
June 4, 2024
Author Kate Khavari’s fans have been eagerly awaiting another mystery for botanist Saffron Everleigh to solve. The Botanist’s Guide to Society and Secrets is worth the wait. It’s an entertaining, engrossing novel worth reading. In my case, it was a delightful binge-read.
If you’re new to The Botanist’s Guide mysteries, I’d advise you to read the books in order. You’d enjoy this book even if you haven't read the earlier ones, but the book is better if you are familiar with the characters’ backstories.
Saffron is usually discouraged from investigating mysteries by Alexander Ashton, the enigmatic university colleague and romantic interest. This time, he needs Saffron’s help to exonerate his brother Adrian when a murder investigation points to him.
Saffron’s roommate Elizabeth Hale finally has a steady but bland boyfriend. When Elizabeth’s brother Nick comes back into her life, he shakes up the quiet lives of the girls to include a second murder investigation. Both victims worked at the same government research laboratory, and Nick wants Saffron to take a position within the laboratory to find a connection between the two.
Saffron has a load of questions to sift through. Could she work at a government laboratory, even though she believes that government research led to her father’s murder years ago? Can she solve the crimes without endangering her own?
Others have deep secrets. How does Nick Hale’s current and previous military service tie him into the murders? Alexander’s wartime efforts are even more concerning, especially since he and Nick crossed paths during the war. Even Elizabeth’s professional and personal lives play into big secrets.
Khavari wraps up the primary murder mystery and shows how the primary characters were impacted by the experience. But it’s not really over. Our author drops a gut-wrenching twist that appropriately sets up the next storyline. I didn't see it coming...but I should have. It also makes it much harder to wait for the next book.
Thank you, NetGallery for an advance review copy of the book.
If you’re new to The Botanist’s Guide mysteries, I’d advise you to read the books in order. You’d enjoy this book even if you haven't read the earlier ones, but the book is better if you are familiar with the characters’ backstories.
Saffron is usually discouraged from investigating mysteries by Alexander Ashton, the enigmatic university colleague and romantic interest. This time, he needs Saffron’s help to exonerate his brother Adrian when a murder investigation points to him.
Saffron’s roommate Elizabeth Hale finally has a steady but bland boyfriend. When Elizabeth’s brother Nick comes back into her life, he shakes up the quiet lives of the girls to include a second murder investigation. Both victims worked at the same government research laboratory, and Nick wants Saffron to take a position within the laboratory to find a connection between the two.
Saffron has a load of questions to sift through. Could she work at a government laboratory, even though she believes that government research led to her father’s murder years ago? Can she solve the crimes without endangering her own?
Others have deep secrets. How does Nick Hale’s current and previous military service tie him into the murders? Alexander’s wartime efforts are even more concerning, especially since he and Nick crossed paths during the war. Even Elizabeth’s professional and personal lives play into big secrets.
Khavari wraps up the primary murder mystery and shows how the primary characters were impacted by the experience. But it’s not really over. Our author drops a gut-wrenching twist that appropriately sets up the next storyline. I didn't see it coming...but I should have. It also makes it much harder to wait for the next book.
Thank you, NetGallery for an advance review copy of the book.
February 14, 2024
Here is an honest little review of A Botanist’s Guide to Society and Secrets by Kate Khavari. I requested this title on Netgalley quite a few weeks ago, not realizing that it was the third book in a series I had never read! So, I quickly utilized my library’s e-book resources and read the first two installments before beginning this one. What these books have made me realize is that I really do love a mystery.
Would I consider these a cozy mystery? Yes? Ish? There are moments of on-stage violence that make your heart beat just a little faster, but overall, the nature of these novels is very mellow. Who would have thought plants are worth killing people for? Khavari certainly causes readers to realize the importance of plantlife/the environment and how entire ecosystems could be destroyed if a person or government were to use the knowledge in war or for other unsavory reasons. Compared to the first two books, there was a lot more going on in Society and Secrets. For example, the government steps in with agents and spies, secrets are revealed, gangsters are after deadly information, and flatmate Elizabeth finally gets her chance to help solve the case.
Let’s talk boys. I liked that we got to visit Lee in this book! I was worried that we would never see this absolute charmer again, but alas, he is back and ready for some action! What I didn’t like? Alexander’s weird vibes. Do I still feel like I would personally choose Lee? Maybe a little. In one sense, he gives our girl Saffron freedom she needs, but is risky and flirtatious to a fault. Alexander craves order and would do anything to protect our little plant-lover from harm, even if she feels suffocated. This gives strong Stefan and Damon vibes (Vampire Diaries), and Saffron is just not into the bad boy trope. Not a relevant comparison? Oh well.
The ending leads me to believe we will get more of Ms. Everleigh, and the books, as seen in the average ratings on Goodreads, get better and better as we go. I am excited to see what happens next, because yes, I would recommend this series.
Would I consider these a cozy mystery? Yes? Ish? There are moments of on-stage violence that make your heart beat just a little faster, but overall, the nature of these novels is very mellow. Who would have thought plants are worth killing people for? Khavari certainly causes readers to realize the importance of plantlife/the environment and how entire ecosystems could be destroyed if a person or government were to use the knowledge in war or for other unsavory reasons. Compared to the first two books, there was a lot more going on in Society and Secrets. For example, the government steps in with agents and spies, secrets are revealed, gangsters are after deadly information, and flatmate Elizabeth finally gets her chance to help solve the case.
Let’s talk boys. I liked that we got to visit Lee in this book! I was worried that we would never see this absolute charmer again, but alas, he is back and ready for some action! What I didn’t like? Alexander’s weird vibes. Do I still feel like I would personally choose Lee? Maybe a little. In one sense, he gives our girl Saffron freedom she needs, but is risky and flirtatious to a fault. Alexander craves order and would do anything to protect our little plant-lover from harm, even if she feels suffocated. This gives strong Stefan and Damon vibes (Vampire Diaries), and Saffron is just not into the bad boy trope. Not a relevant comparison? Oh well.
The ending leads me to believe we will get more of Ms. Everleigh, and the books, as seen in the average ratings on Goodreads, get better and better as we go. I am excited to see what happens next, because yes, I would recommend this series.
February 22, 2024
A Botanist's Guide to Society and Secrets by Kate Khavari 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, Crooked Lane Books and Kate Khavari for this phenomenal ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
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, Crooked Lane Books and Kate Khavari for this phenomenal ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
June 16, 2024
This series is FIRE! The best book in the series! Saffron gets her man and her Moriarty! The tease for the next book has me desperate to read it. It's so hard to wait a year between each book.
July 21, 2024
My least favorite of the series.
January 27, 2025
3.5-4 stars. Very good but a bit too long for the story it told. And I was disappointed in the man she chose. Oh well.
Ending once again set up the next book in the series.
Ending once again set up the next book in the series.
February 15, 2025
This series continues to be enthralling and I cannot wait for the last book to come out soon! Thank you for writing a mystery novel focused on a female scientist in the 1920s who does amazing things! I especially appreciated the authors notes in this book to give more background into the historical and true political issues faced during this time (as well as some actual scientific facts of fungi….)
LOVE IT!
LOVE IT!
February 10, 2025
This book was a welcome return to the intriguing world of Saffron Everleigh, but the pacing was much slower compared to previous installments, which made it harder for me to stay fully engaged. While I still enjoyed the character dynamics, it didn’t quite grip me the way earlier books in the series did.
July 24, 2024
I love historical fiction mysteries😂 This is my second favorite historical fiction mystery series and this one was another hit. 4⭐️
January 13, 2025
3.5 stars
February 15, 2025
I liked it better than the second book so maybe I would give it a 3.5. Listened to it on audiobook at 2x speed.
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