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Diana Flowers Floriculture Mysteries #4
Peonies and Poison
Making cupcakes can be murder.
Especially when someone has poisoned them.
Diana knows she’s being framed for a crime she didn’t commit, but who is out to make her look guilty, and why?
Speaking of secret enemies… Fergus has done something terrible. Now part of a new crime-fighting duo, Diana finds herself immersed in a deep, dark conspiracy theory. At the heart of it is a mystery that has baffled investigators for decades. The whole thing is more ridiculous than anything Fergus has ever previously believed.
The worst part is… she’s starting to think it might all be true.
Now, more than ever, she needs to find a logical answer… or face accepting something that defies scientific explanation.
Especially when someone has poisoned them.
Diana knows she’s being framed for a crime she didn’t commit, but who is out to make her look guilty, and why?
Speaking of secret enemies… Fergus has done something terrible. Now part of a new crime-fighting duo, Diana finds herself immersed in a deep, dark conspiracy theory. At the heart of it is a mystery that has baffled investigators for decades. The whole thing is more ridiculous than anything Fergus has ever previously believed.
The worst part is… she’s starting to think it might all be true.
Now, more than ever, she needs to find a logical answer… or face accepting something that defies scientific explanation.
206 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2019
70 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Loren
98 books125 followersRuby Loren was born and raised in East Sussex, England. She writes cozy mysteries, paranormal mysteries, and stories about rockstars. Her books are designed to take you away to a little slice of a different world, often set in a rural corner of South East England. Full of ideas, she is always busy writing her next bestseller!
Ruby is the author of the Madigan Amos cozy mysteries, a funny, twisty series that stars zookeeper, Madigan Amos, and is set in Sussex. She has many other cozy mystery series under her belt, including the Blooming series, the Emily Haversson Mysteries, the Hayley Argent Mysteries, and the Holly Winter Mysteries, all set in England.
The themes of her books range from cunning, twisty plots, to slightly silly, humorous mysteries, designed to make you laugh. Her books are perfect for readers, who love to get a know a character, and like to look on the lighter side of life.
Ruby still lives near Brighton, in East Sussex, with her fox-fighting, bird-murdering cat, Jasper. When she’s not writing, she’s travelling the world with her musical duo, Rumours, playing electric guitar and singing lead vocals.
To find out more about Ruby and pick up 3 free books, visit her website: www.rubyloren.com
Ruby is the author of the Madigan Amos cozy mysteries, a funny, twisty series that stars zookeeper, Madigan Amos, and is set in Sussex. She has many other cozy mystery series under her belt, including the Blooming series, the Emily Haversson Mysteries, the Hayley Argent Mysteries, and the Holly Winter Mysteries, all set in England.
The themes of her books range from cunning, twisty plots, to slightly silly, humorous mysteries, designed to make you laugh. Her books are perfect for readers, who love to get a know a character, and like to look on the lighter side of life.
Ruby still lives near Brighton, in East Sussex, with her fox-fighting, bird-murdering cat, Jasper. When she’s not writing, she’s travelling the world with her musical duo, Rumours, playing electric guitar and singing lead vocals.
To find out more about Ruby and pick up 3 free books, visit her website: www.rubyloren.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 26, 2019
This was a good read. It kept me entertained with the twists and turns it went on with its enjoyable storyline
May 20, 2019
Conspiracy theory or fact
Another great read. A plot of two parts, one is the murder of the new vicar whilst the other is the strange goings on in a deserted village nearby. Loved the way she's growing into her role of flower supplier but with an edge. An edge that let's find scientific answers that have eluded others foe decades.
A new florist in town should have been good news. A new outlet for her growing business. However the new owner is not only hostile but seems determined to ring the death knoll on her thriving enterprise. Under selling her at every opportunity. However things come to a head when the new vicar dies after sampling a cupcake from her stall. Now she's being held for murder, even though she didn't bake the cupcakes but only decorated them. Then there is the strange offer from the company that she can find nothing on the Internet. Plus Fergus comes back and tells her that they've been hired to look into the company and the possible links it has to a nearby deserted village that was completely destroyed during the war. A stalker, strange findings in the soil, private security in hazmat suits and an explosion plus attempts on her life. Can she find the killer? Will she find out why the florist is so against her? What actually happened to the village?
Another great read. A plot of two parts, one is the murder of the new vicar whilst the other is the strange goings on in a deserted village nearby. Loved the way she's growing into her role of flower supplier but with an edge. An edge that let's find scientific answers that have eluded others foe decades.
A new florist in town should have been good news. A new outlet for her growing business. However the new owner is not only hostile but seems determined to ring the death knoll on her thriving enterprise. Under selling her at every opportunity. However things come to a head when the new vicar dies after sampling a cupcake from her stall. Now she's being held for murder, even though she didn't bake the cupcakes but only decorated them. Then there is the strange offer from the company that she can find nothing on the Internet. Plus Fergus comes back and tells her that they've been hired to look into the company and the possible links it has to a nearby deserted village that was completely destroyed during the war. A stalker, strange findings in the soil, private security in hazmat suits and an explosion plus attempts on her life. Can she find the killer? Will she find out why the florist is so against her? What actually happened to the village?
May 17, 2019
This book four in the Diana Flowers Floriculture Mystery series and starts off with quite a bang! Diana has got some competition from another florist, who has set up shop in an old charity shop in the middle of the village. When Diana tries to visit her shop and welcome her to the village, she gets quite a dismissive brush off. It seems this new florist hates her, even before they have met! This new florist, Luana, makes matters even worse by trying to beat down Diana on every service she provides. How she can even be making any profit, bringing everything in from abroad, Diana can’t figure out.
She has to start thinking outside the box, for ideas on making and providing new products for her customers, to keep her sales climbing. On the day of the local Merryfield summer festival, Diana managed to get a stall and has made honey pots with edible flowers, to provide different flavours and also two types of cupcakes, baked by the local bakery owner, Mrs Dovey, and then decorated by Diana with more edible flowers. Luana has also gotten a stall, as she has a business on the high street, which provides an automatic in. Diana gets a customer who buys one of her cupcakes and has already given another to a fellow stallholder and friend for covering her stall for her.
Next minute, her customer falls over and dies almost immediately. It’s thought that it was a simple heart attack, but others (especially her competition) think that Diana has poisoned him with her cupcakes. As usual, detective Miller sees her near the dead body and hears about the cupcake and the whispers, he goes up and arrests her for murder! She tries to protest her innocence, but he never likes to listen to her. One surprise for Diana is the arrival of her friend Fergus, a conspiracy theorist, who has been away on a book tour. She hasn’t seen much of him since the Christmas ball, when her ex-boyfriend had appeared and asked her to come work with him and that he still loved her.
He has another theory that something is happening nearby and now has drawn Diana into coming with him to visit a place called Crickley Marsh. It has been a ghost town since the WWI and all its inhabitants disappeared. The stories about the town and what happened have made Fergus even more intrigued. Signage states it is army land and no entry is allowed, not that Fergus pays any attention to that. Other scientists with skills similar to Diana, have gone missing for over seventy years now and offers from a secret company keep arriving for Diana and neither of them can find out what the company actually does. Is it all connected?
Diana has various problems in this story, with being a prime suspect for murder, another florist who seems to have it in for her and her business, a mystery company wanting her to take up a job with no details, that only she can do and now Fergus and one of his conspiracy theories. She has to try and figure out all of the above problems and find out who or what is truly behind them all. A great read, as expected, yet with so much more to the storyline than ever before! Not just a murder for Diana to solve, but danger for her very existence as a flower grower, and now something that could be deadly to her, the local area and even further afield.
I couldn’t put this one down and couldn’t believe the author managed to get so much into this storyline! This is one of the best one yet, I reckon. There is so much more been put into the story and you also have a hint of romance, a personal vendetta and a mystery, decades old, that no-one has had an answer for. Flowers and murder are the normal themes for this series of books, so this just adds to the enjoyment. I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
She has to start thinking outside the box, for ideas on making and providing new products for her customers, to keep her sales climbing. On the day of the local Merryfield summer festival, Diana managed to get a stall and has made honey pots with edible flowers, to provide different flavours and also two types of cupcakes, baked by the local bakery owner, Mrs Dovey, and then decorated by Diana with more edible flowers. Luana has also gotten a stall, as she has a business on the high street, which provides an automatic in. Diana gets a customer who buys one of her cupcakes and has already given another to a fellow stallholder and friend for covering her stall for her.
Next minute, her customer falls over and dies almost immediately. It’s thought that it was a simple heart attack, but others (especially her competition) think that Diana has poisoned him with her cupcakes. As usual, detective Miller sees her near the dead body and hears about the cupcake and the whispers, he goes up and arrests her for murder! She tries to protest her innocence, but he never likes to listen to her. One surprise for Diana is the arrival of her friend Fergus, a conspiracy theorist, who has been away on a book tour. She hasn’t seen much of him since the Christmas ball, when her ex-boyfriend had appeared and asked her to come work with him and that he still loved her.
He has another theory that something is happening nearby and now has drawn Diana into coming with him to visit a place called Crickley Marsh. It has been a ghost town since the WWI and all its inhabitants disappeared. The stories about the town and what happened have made Fergus even more intrigued. Signage states it is army land and no entry is allowed, not that Fergus pays any attention to that. Other scientists with skills similar to Diana, have gone missing for over seventy years now and offers from a secret company keep arriving for Diana and neither of them can find out what the company actually does. Is it all connected?
Diana has various problems in this story, with being a prime suspect for murder, another florist who seems to have it in for her and her business, a mystery company wanting her to take up a job with no details, that only she can do and now Fergus and one of his conspiracy theories. She has to try and figure out all of the above problems and find out who or what is truly behind them all. A great read, as expected, yet with so much more to the storyline than ever before! Not just a murder for Diana to solve, but danger for her very existence as a flower grower, and now something that could be deadly to her, the local area and even further afield.
I couldn’t put this one down and couldn’t believe the author managed to get so much into this storyline! This is one of the best one yet, I reckon. There is so much more been put into the story and you also have a hint of romance, a personal vendetta and a mystery, decades old, that no-one has had an answer for. Flowers and murder are the normal themes for this series of books, so this just adds to the enjoyment. I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
August 30, 2022
Another grand adventure with Diana and Fergus. Diana get into hot water with the bumbling DCI who’s intent on charging her with murder. Fergus, riding high on the success of his latest book comes back to town trying to rope her into another conspiracy. Between solving the vicar’s murder. Saving her business, traipsing through military bases, arguments with Fergus, missing ex boyfriends…. And stalkers… Diana and Fergus may not make it this time.
May 20, 2019
Peonies and Poison #4 – Wow, the best book of the series and Fergus plays a big role. I loved the way the book started with the new florist in town and I enjoyed the conspiracy. Quite a bit of intrigue to keep the reader immersed in the story. Ms. Loren writes a bit above the regular cozy mold and this book is above her usual. Good suspense, good mystery, good descriptions; all that make this a must read. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
Diana Flowers series:
The Florist and the Funeral #0 - The prequel to the Diana Flowers series. A quickly read, fun story about a chemist, with a high IQ, interested in growing and selling flowers to meet the growing demand. Along the way there's a death, which she solves since she is smarter than the old Lt. There's quite a bit going on in this novella and the "killer" is a big surprise and not what you expect. Another series that may be the match for Madi's zoo series. I contacted the author to review her books and received this one. 5*
Gardenias and a Grave Mistake #1 - My favorite series by this author is the Madi Amos Zoo Mysteries, but this is an interesting series so far. The prequel should be read first to get the foundation, The Florist and the Funeral. I like both Fergus and Diana; they're perfectly matched to each other, tin-foil hat optional. The other characters worked in their roles. The story took a little bit to get rolling but it did get interesting and had some good twists. Diggory is a character all of his own. I was disappointed that Di let the nematodes get to her; there's an easy, nonpoisonous fix to get rid of those critters, but there's always a change that works out better in the end as I found with Madi's series. Included with the story is a free offering of the prequel and a list of edible flowers. I contacted the author to review her book. 4.5*
Delphiniums and Deception #2 - This story had me so immersed in it that I just let it carry me along. The bunker had overtures of several sources, including the Saw series, so I saw several ways this could have worked out. Several people in a isolated location with a murderer and the deceased. But Ms. Loren made this theme her own and unique, and it was hard to put the book down. I figured out three possible murderers, but I missed. I liked the way the Floral Arrangement retreat was arranged; and certainly enjoyed the punishment feature of the classes. There are many interesting storylines for the characters. Fergus really shined brightly in this story, from his heartwarming gift to his ability to surprise. 4*
Poinsettias and The Perfect Crime #3 - A good addition to the series, with plenty of new characters and twists. There are plenty of storylines weaving their contributions throughout this story, all well thought out and moving at a good pace. There is still the funny and interesting relationship between Diana and Fergus, adding to the mix of townsfolk and new characters. The new characters are developed just enough pull their share and are believable - you believe they're up to something. Fergus pulls his load and comes up smelling like a rose again. There's a bit of originality with the crime and a very good surprise with one of the special characters. There's traces of Egypt and India meshed in behind the scenes that lend a different flavor to this series. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
Diana Flowers series end.
Diana Flowers series:
The Florist and the Funeral #0 - The prequel to the Diana Flowers series. A quickly read, fun story about a chemist, with a high IQ, interested in growing and selling flowers to meet the growing demand. Along the way there's a death, which she solves since she is smarter than the old Lt. There's quite a bit going on in this novella and the "killer" is a big surprise and not what you expect. Another series that may be the match for Madi's zoo series. I contacted the author to review her books and received this one. 5*
Gardenias and a Grave Mistake #1 - My favorite series by this author is the Madi Amos Zoo Mysteries, but this is an interesting series so far. The prequel should be read first to get the foundation, The Florist and the Funeral. I like both Fergus and Diana; they're perfectly matched to each other, tin-foil hat optional. The other characters worked in their roles. The story took a little bit to get rolling but it did get interesting and had some good twists. Diggory is a character all of his own. I was disappointed that Di let the nematodes get to her; there's an easy, nonpoisonous fix to get rid of those critters, but there's always a change that works out better in the end as I found with Madi's series. Included with the story is a free offering of the prequel and a list of edible flowers. I contacted the author to review her book. 4.5*
Delphiniums and Deception #2 - This story had me so immersed in it that I just let it carry me along. The bunker had overtures of several sources, including the Saw series, so I saw several ways this could have worked out. Several people in a isolated location with a murderer and the deceased. But Ms. Loren made this theme her own and unique, and it was hard to put the book down. I figured out three possible murderers, but I missed. I liked the way the Floral Arrangement retreat was arranged; and certainly enjoyed the punishment feature of the classes. There are many interesting storylines for the characters. Fergus really shined brightly in this story, from his heartwarming gift to his ability to surprise. 4*
Poinsettias and The Perfect Crime #3 - A good addition to the series, with plenty of new characters and twists. There are plenty of storylines weaving their contributions throughout this story, all well thought out and moving at a good pace. There is still the funny and interesting relationship between Diana and Fergus, adding to the mix of townsfolk and new characters. The new characters are developed just enough pull their share and are believable - you believe they're up to something. Fergus pulls his load and comes up smelling like a rose again. There's a bit of originality with the crime and a very good surprise with one of the special characters. There's traces of Egypt and India meshed in behind the scenes that lend a different flavor to this series. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
Diana Flowers series end.
May 24, 2019
Diana Flowers is the florist in the village of Merryfield and when a new florist ( Luana Ricci) comes to town, Diana wants to be friends but the other florist instinctively seems to hate her. Their "friendly" competition ends with thee death of the local vicar, Ashley Roberts, who died after eating one of Diana's flower-topped red velvet cupcakes. When Detective Chief Inspector Walter Miller gets involved, Diana's life takes a turn for he worse. The detective is out to get Diana ever since her mother broke off her romance with him. Miller is certain Diana intentionally poisoned the cupcake and tries to arrest her, until a swarm of bees derailed his attempt. When Diana hooks up with old friend Fergus, a conspiracy theory guy who had written a book about his conspiracy theories under the name T. C. King. Fergus wants Diana to get involved in a case involving a mysterious USB stick and her ex-boyfriend George. It involved Diana's working at INGCORP,an unknown scientific group, doing unknown work for them. No info can be found on this mysterious corp and they keep trying to recruit Diana to work for them. Fergus is all for it as it fits in with his conspiracies. He wants Diana to find out more info on Crickley Marsh, hoping he can tie it into his living beneath the earth conspiracy. Against her better judgement, Diana gets swept into the mystery of Crickley Marsh and what happened there while trying to solve the vicar's murder which Diana still feels was done by the new florist. Disappearing scientists, stalkers, nematodes, Walter Miller, threatening strangers, Luana Ricci finally result in the poisoning being solved and a satisfactory ending to Crickley Marsh. Diana feels that she will have further interaction with INGCORP and Fergus with his conspiracy theories. Good Story with relatable characters. Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 4 1/2 stars.
June 4, 2019
"Peonies and Poison" earns 5/5 Red Velvet Cupcakes & Conspiracies...Entertaining and Fun!
Luana Ricci has arrived in Merryfield to open a competing floral service, offering unsustainable deals to acquire clients, disparaging Diana's reputation, and maybe doing a bit of...sabotage? Venturing into floral-infused honey and cupcakes Diana tries to set herself apart from Ricci's Floristry, but the new vicar discovers red velvet treats topped with dianthus blooms are deadly!
Then Furgus, close friend and conspiracy theorist, returns from his book tour with some additional insights into the on-going mystery connected to his interest in Crickey Marsh, the nearby village deserted since WWI where even the previous residents are missing.
I am a fan of Ruby Loren's Diana Flowers cozy. I am always treated to an intriguing mystery punctuated with twists and turns, humor, friendships, and although a clever ending, there are some issues left for another day. I thought I knew the direction she was heading, I saw Karma ridding her of one of her nemeses. However, I was pleasantly surprised how multiple suspects, stalkers, and more Ricci antics veered into an entertaining direction. I'm used to many British books and television shows portraying law enforcement as snarky and either resistant to help or quick to judgement, but I wish Detective Miller would chill out! The characters are the best. Diana has really settled in with great friendships and a budding romance with Fergus Robinson, and the members of the Merryfield Murder Mystery Fans' book club illustrate quirky...lots of fun!
Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Luana Ricci has arrived in Merryfield to open a competing floral service, offering unsustainable deals to acquire clients, disparaging Diana's reputation, and maybe doing a bit of...sabotage? Venturing into floral-infused honey and cupcakes Diana tries to set herself apart from Ricci's Floristry, but the new vicar discovers red velvet treats topped with dianthus blooms are deadly!
Then Furgus, close friend and conspiracy theorist, returns from his book tour with some additional insights into the on-going mystery connected to his interest in Crickey Marsh, the nearby village deserted since WWI where even the previous residents are missing.
I am a fan of Ruby Loren's Diana Flowers cozy. I am always treated to an intriguing mystery punctuated with twists and turns, humor, friendships, and although a clever ending, there are some issues left for another day. I thought I knew the direction she was heading, I saw Karma ridding her of one of her nemeses. However, I was pleasantly surprised how multiple suspects, stalkers, and more Ricci antics veered into an entertaining direction. I'm used to many British books and television shows portraying law enforcement as snarky and either resistant to help or quick to judgement, but I wish Detective Miller would chill out! The characters are the best. Diana has really settled in with great friendships and a budding romance with Fergus Robinson, and the members of the Merryfield Murder Mystery Fans' book club illustrate quirky...lots of fun!
Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
December 24, 2023
While I did enjoy this book, I was disappointed with it at the same time. I missed the Diana and Fergus banter that I have come to enjoy, while he was in the story Fergus was definitely on the outs with Diana and the story suffered because of it. Also there was too much going on, so that the mystery didn't really get investigated and Diana just suddenly knew who the killer was. There was also a lot of scientific talk with the chemical analysing of the soil which bogged the story down and it also continues the story from the previous books, which kind of mean you need to have read. The phrase such a nice man when deciding the victim got annoying but other than that I like the characters and hope Fergus will be back soon with some more conspiracy theories to entertain.
With someone opening up a florist shop in town Diana Flowers has to step up her game. She does this by working with the local baker and sell cup cakes with edible flowers on. Things are going well until the vicar dies after eating one. Diana knows the new florist is responsible and is trying her hardest to put her out of business, can she prove it? Her sidekick Fergus is busy with the fame that comes from his book being released and tension between them is strained. Rather than help Diana clear her name he would rather work for a mysterious employer and look into the disappearance of the missing scientist. Things quickly get serious and deadly for both sleuths. Can there friendship survive? And can Diana find a killer before she is arrested?
I liked the narrator. She helps the story come alive by outreach character there own voice.
With someone opening up a florist shop in town Diana Flowers has to step up her game. She does this by working with the local baker and sell cup cakes with edible flowers on. Things are going well until the vicar dies after eating one. Diana knows the new florist is responsible and is trying her hardest to put her out of business, can she prove it? Her sidekick Fergus is busy with the fame that comes from his book being released and tension between them is strained. Rather than help Diana clear her name he would rather work for a mysterious employer and look into the disappearance of the missing scientist. Things quickly get serious and deadly for both sleuths. Can there friendship survive? And can Diana find a killer before she is arrested?
I liked the narrator. She helps the story come alive by outreach character there own voice.
May 17, 2019
The 4th book in the Diana Flowers series is a winner! This book has two storylines meshed together. One is the murder of the new vicar in town at the Cuckoo Fair in town where Diana had a booth and the vicar ate one of the cupcakes from her booth. Even though she didn't bake them, the detective inspector Walter Miller handcuffed her and took her in for questioning. Everything that went wrong in the village Miller always blamed on Diana. Seems Diana's mother dated him long ago and dumped him and he has been carrying a vendetta against the family ever since. There is also the new florist in town who has been trying her hardest to put Diana out of business and is very nasty and devious and secretive. The second storyline has Fergus returning to the village after going on a book tour and filling Diana with another one of his conspiracy theories which although throwing good sense to the wind she says she will be pragmatic and scientific and help him to find out what is going on. After all he keeps telling Diana they were hired (their detective agency in Fergus' mind) by a client to find out what happened to Crickley Marsh. This book has humor, murder, favorite characters in Diana, Fergus, Diggory, Diana's dog and the crazy mystery readers club. And we deal with murder, a new vindictive florist, a stalker, a secret corporation complete with guards. I love this series each book is a page turner and you just can't put it down until you are finished! I received and ARC from the author, but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
June 4, 2019
Peonies and Poison by Ruby Loren
This is the latest book in the series featuring Diana Flowers, soil analyst turned horticulturist and florist. Once again it is the sudden appearance of conspiracy theorist Fergus that heralds the start of a confusing and interesting intermission in what is normally a relatively humdrum life whose current form of excitement can be found in preparations for the annual Cuckoo Fair which heralds the end of spring and the start of summer. The success of his latest book has gone to Fergus's head and it appears that he is putting Diana a poor second to his fans. It takes more deaths, not all human, for him to realise his error and the support and encouragement of Diana is of greater importance. This book also brings into focus the increasingly common phenomenon of stalking someone famous, or at least relatively well known, and the havok they can wreak in the lives of both stalked and their friends. This is another excellent book by the popular writer Ruby Loren, creator of the brilliant Madigan Amos Zoological series, and like Madi Diana Flowers does something which is totally different to the vast majority of heroines in modern books. Well worth reading and while each book can be read as a stand alone novel they have a common theme running throughout which began in the prequel and makes a sudden reappearance at the end of this book. I urge you to read it, and if you haven't read any of the writers other books then you are missing out on books well worth the reading.
This is the latest book in the series featuring Diana Flowers, soil analyst turned horticulturist and florist. Once again it is the sudden appearance of conspiracy theorist Fergus that heralds the start of a confusing and interesting intermission in what is normally a relatively humdrum life whose current form of excitement can be found in preparations for the annual Cuckoo Fair which heralds the end of spring and the start of summer. The success of his latest book has gone to Fergus's head and it appears that he is putting Diana a poor second to his fans. It takes more deaths, not all human, for him to realise his error and the support and encouragement of Diana is of greater importance. This book also brings into focus the increasingly common phenomenon of stalking someone famous, or at least relatively well known, and the havok they can wreak in the lives of both stalked and their friends. This is another excellent book by the popular writer Ruby Loren, creator of the brilliant Madigan Amos Zoological series, and like Madi Diana Flowers does something which is totally different to the vast majority of heroines in modern books. Well worth reading and while each book can be read as a stand alone novel they have a common theme running throughout which began in the prequel and makes a sudden reappearance at the end of this book. I urge you to read it, and if you haven't read any of the writers other books then you are missing out on books well worth the reading.
May 17, 2019
Better and Better. Very ecstatic and happy that I had the chance to read this book. I need to laugh and this book did it for me. Thank you. I am beginning to think that I am emotionally involved with the characters.
There are two major things going on in this book. The first is the murder that Diana is accused of having committed. The second, is the conspiracy that good old Fergus brings. Each has its own little things going on with it. Diana has a business rival and Fergus is back and ha a mysterious client to pay them to look in to a possible conspiracy. Some how with all this, still need to find the actual murderer. i found my self confused and when all was revealed n, i admit i never saw it coming. I got completely fooled. (Admit it, you like to figure them out too.)
Even though I did say that I was involved with the characters, I do want to say that this book can be read by itself. there are a few references to the previous books. You will be able to follow this one just fine. I admit that I need those references at times to remember them since I read them a bit ago.
I love learning new words, especially British ones. Now if I can remember them to use them. Yeah!
This s a wonderful addition and can be read in one sitting or in a day if you choose. I waited a bit long for this one and just wanted to get it read. You will enjoy it too.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
There are two major things going on in this book. The first is the murder that Diana is accused of having committed. The second, is the conspiracy that good old Fergus brings. Each has its own little things going on with it. Diana has a business rival and Fergus is back and ha a mysterious client to pay them to look in to a possible conspiracy. Some how with all this, still need to find the actual murderer. i found my self confused and when all was revealed n, i admit i never saw it coming. I got completely fooled. (Admit it, you like to figure them out too.)
Even though I did say that I was involved with the characters, I do want to say that this book can be read by itself. there are a few references to the previous books. You will be able to follow this one just fine. I admit that I need those references at times to remember them since I read them a bit ago.
I love learning new words, especially British ones. Now if I can remember them to use them. Yeah!
This s a wonderful addition and can be read in one sitting or in a day if you choose. I waited a bit long for this one and just wanted to get it read. You will enjoy it too.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
May 21, 2019
🌻Red velvet, the vicar's sweet downfall! Another twisting🔎 mystery knee-deep in village hijinks😲
May 20, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
👍4.5 flowery 🌸 🌟 stars
Two mystery plot lines in this fun, unpredictable🏡 village cozy mystery. Diana Flowers and her conspiracy theorist friend Fergus get caught up in a dark mystery involving an off-limits site where a village disappeared a century earlier, and Diana faces constant badgering from Walter Miller, the inept and revenge-obsessed village lawman after the vicar meets a sudden end at a local fair just after visiting Diana's stall.
Author Ruby Loren has created some great characters in these Diana Flowers horticulture mysteries. In this one, besides Diana and Fergus, Diana's scene-stealing mother shines as does Luana Ricci, Diana's new cut-throat competition (although most of her actions are seen second-hand).
The writing is good, with frequent bouts of humor, the action and mayhem never falter and the murderer remained a mystery to me right through to the big reveal near the end. I am always looking forward to the next scrape Fergus drags Diana into and her next run-in with Officer Miller. I also love the chemistry and science Loren works into the plot through Diana's dedicated knowledge of flowers and horticulture.😊
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 20, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
👍4.5 flowery 🌸 🌟 stars
Two mystery plot lines in this fun, unpredictable🏡 village cozy mystery. Diana Flowers and her conspiracy theorist friend Fergus get caught up in a dark mystery involving an off-limits site where a village disappeared a century earlier, and Diana faces constant badgering from Walter Miller, the inept and revenge-obsessed village lawman after the vicar meets a sudden end at a local fair just after visiting Diana's stall.
Author Ruby Loren has created some great characters in these Diana Flowers horticulture mysteries. In this one, besides Diana and Fergus, Diana's scene-stealing mother shines as does Luana Ricci, Diana's new cut-throat competition (although most of her actions are seen second-hand).
The writing is good, with frequent bouts of humor, the action and mayhem never falter and the murderer remained a mystery to me right through to the big reveal near the end. I am always looking forward to the next scrape Fergus drags Diana into and her next run-in with Officer Miller. I also love the chemistry and science Loren works into the plot through Diana's dedicated knowledge of flowers and horticulture.😊
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 24, 2019
There is a new florist in town and she is doing her best to put Diana out of business. She is importing her flowers and selling them at prices way lower than Diana's. Why? What is she up to? For Diana's stall at the Cuckoo Fair she brought cupcakes decorated with edible flowers. The vicar ate one and died. Diana is brought in for murder when it is determined the flowers were poison. How could that happened? Diana knows her flowers were perfectly safe to eat and she didn't bake the cupcakes herself so she couldn't have put poison in them. What is going on? Who did this?
Fergus arrives back in town from his book promoting tour with the news that they have been hired to find out what happened to Crickley Marsh, a village that disappeared a century ago.
This stoy is about suspense, murder, a stalker, conspiracy, mysteries, a secret guarded corporation, intrigue and red herrings along with some humor.
Defintely Ruby's best work to date. A must read. You won't want to miss this one.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
Fergus arrives back in town from his book promoting tour with the news that they have been hired to find out what happened to Crickley Marsh, a village that disappeared a century ago.
This stoy is about suspense, murder, a stalker, conspiracy, mysteries, a secret guarded corporation, intrigue and red herrings along with some humor.
Defintely Ruby's best work to date. A must read. You won't want to miss this one.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
May 21, 2019
Diana finds herself in hot water with the local DCI Walter Miller again. Diana finds herself in the middle of a florist’s war with the new florist in Merryfield. Then the Vicar Ashley Roberts suddenly dies after buying a cupcake from Diana. The day has hardly started and already things were not going well, especially when DCI Miller dragged Diana to the police station for questioning. Fergus is back from his book tour with his regular conspiracy theories. Together they must solve who killer the Vicar. They are lured into the mysterious presence of a large corporation by offering Diana a job with tremendous benefits but no job description. Diana and Fergus follow the trail and discover something very old. Read this exciting cozy mystery to discover why and how the Vicar died and what the big corporation is hiding. Loved it! I received a free ARC and have voluntarily left a review
May 23, 2019
This series is rapidly becoming one of the best British cosy mystery series, at least as good as her zoo series, and this book is the best in the series so far.
The story is great, with a couple of intertwining plots, leading to a very pleasing conclusion, but what really makes this series, and this book in particular, stand out are the characters, there is a very wide range of character types, from no-nonsense Diana, although even she is drawn towards conspiracies in this story, to pie in the sky Fergus, then there is Diana's mother, who is a rather elemental force of nature, and of course there is the rather irrational, incompetent policeman.
Although the mystery is central, this is not a serious story, rather there is a lot of genuine humour which provides a great foil to the serious matter of the vicar's death.
I received an advance copy of the book, but have voluntarily written this honest review.
The story is great, with a couple of intertwining plots, leading to a very pleasing conclusion, but what really makes this series, and this book in particular, stand out are the characters, there is a very wide range of character types, from no-nonsense Diana, although even she is drawn towards conspiracies in this story, to pie in the sky Fergus, then there is Diana's mother, who is a rather elemental force of nature, and of course there is the rather irrational, incompetent policeman.
Although the mystery is central, this is not a serious story, rather there is a lot of genuine humour which provides a great foil to the serious matter of the vicar's death.
I received an advance copy of the book, but have voluntarily written this honest review.
May 16, 2019
Diana Flowers has a stall at the annual Cuckoo Fair. She's had to expand her business to combat a new florist in town who is determined to drive her out of business. The expansion includes baked goods with edible flowers as decoration. When the local vicar chooses one of the cakes, and then dies suddenly afterwards. Diana is immediately the prime suspect since the main detective always seems to have it out for her.
Meanwhile, Fergus and Diana are hired to look into the company who's logo was on the mysterious USB drive, that was left for Diana over the past Christmas. There is reason to believe that an area near them is being used for nefarious reasons, and that the town that once stood, was not abandoned due to enemy bombings during WWI.
Another fun story whit well developed characters, and a good bit of humor.
Meanwhile, Fergus and Diana are hired to look into the company who's logo was on the mysterious USB drive, that was left for Diana over the past Christmas. There is reason to believe that an area near them is being used for nefarious reasons, and that the town that once stood, was not abandoned due to enemy bombings during WWI.
Another fun story whit well developed characters, and a good bit of humor.
May 23, 2019
This is a mystery to get your teeth into as there is no obvious suspect, and the plot keeps you guessing right up to the end.
Diana finds herself in trouble ...again.
She also finds herself part of a crime fighting duo with Fergus, even worse ,she's almost starting to believe some of his conspiracy theories. Their investigation is centred on an abandoned village.
The twin strands of the plot are neatly woven together, and the pace of the story is well judged.
The characters are well written and believable, especially Diana and Fergus whose relationship continues to develop.
As with all the books in this series, there is a touch of humour behind the serious business of murder and conspiracy....usually involving Fergus.
This was a light, but enjoyable, read and I finished it in one sitting.
Diana finds herself in trouble ...again.
She also finds herself part of a crime fighting duo with Fergus, even worse ,she's almost starting to believe some of his conspiracy theories. Their investigation is centred on an abandoned village.
The twin strands of the plot are neatly woven together, and the pace of the story is well judged.
The characters are well written and believable, especially Diana and Fergus whose relationship continues to develop.
As with all the books in this series, there is a touch of humour behind the serious business of murder and conspiracy....usually involving Fergus.
This was a light, but enjoyable, read and I finished it in one sitting.
May 29, 2019
Diana is happy to find that her little flower business seems to be blossoming until a flower shop comes to town. Thinking that there is enough business for both of them, she decides to form a friendship with the flower shop owner but instead is faced with animosity. Not only is the woman mean and ruthless, but she also wants to see Diana’s business crumble. To bolster her spirits, Diana gets a booth at the fair and works with the local bakery to create cupcakes with edible flowers. Unfortunately, the vicar becomes a victim to a poisoned dessert and Diana is prime suspect number one.
Now Diana finds herself, with the help of Fergus, trying to prove her innocence before she loses her livelihood and faces a prison sentence for murder. This book is filled with humor, adventure, mystery, a bit of suspense, and lots of fun & quirky characters.
Now Diana finds herself, with the help of Fergus, trying to prove her innocence before she loses her livelihood and faces a prison sentence for murder. This book is filled with humor, adventure, mystery, a bit of suspense, and lots of fun & quirky characters.
May 20, 2019
It was a beautiful day in May...
I'd say this is the best of the Diana Flowers series so far. It takes us from the charm of the village Cuckoo Fair through some odd adventures in the English countryside to a chilling negotiation with a powerful corporation. Once again, Fergus's wild theorizing seems to have some basis in reality, and Diana's scientific skills come into play. There are actually several storylines interwoven here, from the comic to the sinister, all with Diana as the focus – or perhaps rather the target. I spotted some artful parallels between the different threads. I enjoyed reading about Diana's business strategies too, and seeing how she copes with competition. A very entertaining read.
I'd say this is the best of the Diana Flowers series so far. It takes us from the charm of the village Cuckoo Fair through some odd adventures in the English countryside to a chilling negotiation with a powerful corporation. Once again, Fergus's wild theorizing seems to have some basis in reality, and Diana's scientific skills come into play. There are actually several storylines interwoven here, from the comic to the sinister, all with Diana as the focus – or perhaps rather the target. I spotted some artful parallels between the different threads. I enjoyed reading about Diana's business strategies too, and seeing how she copes with competition. A very entertaining read.
May 16, 2019
Diana lives in a quaint, sleepy village in the heart of England. The type of place where everyone knows everyone else's business and arent ashamed to gossip about it. You'd think that nothing ever happens there and that is what Diana liked about it. Until someone is murdered and shes prime suspect number one. That and she has to contend with a new business trying to put her out of hers. With the help of her friend Fergus who just happens to love a conspiracy theory they try to find out the truth & clear her name. Murder, Mystery, Fun & a few laughs all in one book. A great book
May 19, 2019
Diana Flowers is back and she has competition. A new florist is in town and she doesn’t want to play friendly. Diana has been successfully expanding her business, but she’s worried about the competition. She’s brought flower-covered cupcakes to the town festival. But now the new vicar is dead and Diana is the chief suspect.
In the middle of this mess Fergus shows back up in town with a new conspiracy theory regarding Crickley Marsh.
This is a fast, fun read while Diana solves the murder of the vicar and the mystery of Crickley Marsh. Love the Ruby Loren series.
In the middle of this mess Fergus shows back up in town with a new conspiracy theory regarding Crickley Marsh.
This is a fast, fun read while Diana solves the murder of the vicar and the mystery of Crickley Marsh. Love the Ruby Loren series.
May 23, 2019
I loved this story. Diana and Fergus have teamed up again to find a village that disappeared. Fergus is good at finding lots of conspiracy theories but it takes Diana’s science to really prove things. They make a great team and the author has created some great characters. You’ll have to read this book to figure out what happened but Fergus will be disappointed when he can’t write a story about it. I received an arc copy of this book for free but my review is most definitely mine and given freely.
May 23, 2019
Sometimes Conspiracy Theorists are Right!
I love this series and this book is great! There are several mysteries intertwined in this story, which will keep the reader very involved. The conspiracy theory type of mystery is very good and will keep you guessing. The 'real life' murder mystery has so many twists! I never could have guessed the final resolution on that one! I so enjoy this series and this author. I was given this ARC book for free by the author and this is my honest opinion of the book.
I love this series and this book is great! There are several mysteries intertwined in this story, which will keep the reader very involved. The conspiracy theory type of mystery is very good and will keep you guessing. The 'real life' murder mystery has so many twists! I never could have guessed the final resolution on that one! I so enjoy this series and this author. I was given this ARC book for free by the author and this is my honest opinion of the book.
May 24, 2019
Peonies and Poison is actually two mysteries in one. Even Diana is beginning to think there may be something to Fergus' latest conspiracy. But Diana has bigger problems when the vicar dies after eating one of her cupcakes. The bumbling village lawman Walter Miller is determined to pin anything and everything on Diana. This book has red herrings, misdirects, a new florist in town, a stalker, an explosion, the usual village inhabitants and Diana's mother makes a great speech! This may be my favorite book in the series. This is an exciting, witty, well crafted mystery.
May 24, 2019
Whew what a way to spend the start of summer, mysteries and mayhem are afoot. Diana and Fergus find themselves in one of his conspiracy plots. Who is the mysterious corporation and what troubles are they instigating around the world. Add in a stalker, a mysterious new resident who is intent on closing down Diana’s business, a murder and men in biohazard suits and you have a full blown duplicity. You will be intrigued by the plot and the characters and the many twists in the story. Ruby Loren’s books are fun and entertaining.
May 25, 2019
A nasty rival florist, sudden death of the new vicar after eating a cupcake topped with edible flowers that he just bought at her stall at the village fair, taken up and framed for murder by the looney local cop, and then her mother steps in! Mother insists that Diana find another job as a chemist instead of enjoying her new business as a florist in her home village. And then there's Fergus. Besides being a good friend, he is a world class conspiracy theorist. From here things get REALLY crazy. Loved it!
May 31, 2019
Diana Flowers is in trouble again. Just for a change Fergus didn't cause it, but is involved by the end. A new florist has come to the village and seems to drive Diana out of business at any cost. Then someone drops dead after eating on of her cupcakes. The local policeman, who hates Diana because of her mother, wants to lay the blame squarely on Diana. She has to try and discover who is actually guilty. Meantime, Diana has received a job offer - which appears to be a offer that she is not allowed to refuse. She needs to find out what is going on.
September 16, 2020
Ruby Loren is one of my favourite authors. Peonies and Poison #4 in the Diana Flowers series is the best one yet. I like the way she unwittingly gets roped into trouble through no fault of her own but always manages to dig herself out. Her side kick Fergus also manages to get her in trouble but between them both they manage to get out of it and save the day.
If you like a nice easy murder mystery with a touch of conspiracy theory thrown in for good measure this is a great series to get into.
Keep up the good work.
Cheers
Lynn🇨🇦
If you like a nice easy murder mystery with a touch of conspiracy theory thrown in for good measure this is a great series to get into.
Keep up the good work.
Cheers
Lynn🇨🇦
May 20, 2019
Peonies and Poison, book four in the Diana Flowers mystery series is another winner. Competition in the form of another florist has moved into town and the newcomer seems intent on destroying Diana’s business. Sadly, someone dies and Diana stands accused of murder, her friend Fergus returns. He claims they have been hired to research a possible conspiracy. Both storylines blend together to make a captivating book that is hard to put down until the very end.
May 21, 2019
I love this cozy mystery series! With Fergus on tour promoting his latest book, Diana has been enjoying a bit of peace and quiet...then Fergus returns. The writing is fresh and skillful. The plot is tight and multi-layered, and the characters are well drawn and believable. It was an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to future installments. I received this book free and chose to make a voluntary, unbiased review.
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