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The Gardener Mysteries #2
Murder Takes Root: the BRAND NEW gripping British cozy crime mystery full of twists and turns
'A series I can get behind on so many levels! ... This book is enchanting with a capital EEEEEE! Steph is so relatable and utterly adorable' Reader review, 5 starsSteph Williams is excited to get her hands stuck into her latest gardening project. This time, she's been commissioned by Lady Clara of Ashford Manor to restore the stately gardens to their former glory. But the estate is suddenly thrown into chaos when a dead body is discovered in one of the rooms. The police rule it as suicide, though Steph's convinced they're barking up the wrong tree. For she knows the deceased better than they do and it could only be one murder. And if the police won't listen to her, then Steph will have to investigate the case herself. As Steph tries to get to the root of the matter, she soon discovers that the manor staff hold secrets of their own, and now she's not sure who she can trust. But one thing is for sure, she's not going to let the murderer lead her up the garden path...Gardener turned amateur sleuth Steph and her adorable dog are on the search for a killer in this highly gripping and unputdownable cosy crime novel. Fans of Richard Coles, Fiona Leitch and Sarah Yarwood-Lovett will be hooked from beginning to end. What readers are saying about The Gardener Mysteries 'Thoroughly enjoyable read, loved Mouse the dog the most!!! Engaging writing, mystery that keeps you guessing and a lovely diverse cast of characters' Reader review, 5 stars'The story is so well written, I felt like I was in the middle of the action ... I read the book on a single weekend' Reader review, 5 stars'I could not put it down. Absolutely incredible reading and such a talented writer' Reader review, 5 stars
272 pages, Paperback
Published April 3, 2024
632 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
April 2, 2024
I had not read the previous book before reading this one but I believe the author made the past events clear enough that my reading pleasure was not affected.
The main character, Steph Williams, is a garden consultant, and in Murder Takes Root she is staying at an ancestral home to oversee plans for restoring the old gardens. She is living at the house with her dog Mouse and a large group of other employees. When one of them is found dead Steph does not believe it was suicide and begins her own investigation.
This is an interesting cosy mystery with some good characters. I enjoyed the time spent in the gardens and learned a bit about orchids. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The main character, Steph Williams, is a garden consultant, and in Murder Takes Root she is staying at an ancestral home to oversee plans for restoring the old gardens. She is living at the house with her dog Mouse and a large group of other employees. When one of them is found dead Steph does not believe it was suicide and begins her own investigation.
This is an interesting cosy mystery with some good characters. I enjoyed the time spent in the gardens and learned a bit about orchids. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 3, 2024
Murder Takes Root is the second book in the Gardener Mysteries series by British author, Rosie Sandler. In mid-November, gardener and tree surgeon Steph Williams arrives at Ashford Manor in Derbyshire where Lady Clara Fanshawe is hoping she will be able to restore the gardens to their former glory. Her big shaggy dog Mouse is at her side, and she is accommodated in the Round Wing, a genuine tower, to the envy of some of the other nine staff, whose rooms are much more basic, and unheated.
She’s made welcome by all the staff, with the notable exception of William Blythe, the head gardener, who seems to resent her appointment, somehow feeling his own role is being usurped. Mouse takes well to everyone except Blythe, soon becoming a much-needed support dog when things turn nasty. Mouse is also overjoyed to spend time with Mirabelle, the wolfhound owned by Lady Clara’s brother, Dickie Spencer.
But barely two weeks into her stay, a favourite member of staff, Jamie Lennox is found hanging in his room. Steph is one of the first on the scene, and although the police conclude that Jamie took his own life, a few things that Steph has noticed have convinced her otherwise.
Steph initially spends a lot of her time measuring and sketching, consulting the plans Geroge London had made for the gardens back in the eighteenth Century, which include a yew maze, a croquet lawn and two fountains; later, she pulls out diseased box hedge and the brambles that cover one of the fountains, but she still has time to investigate Jamie’s death.
Her (mostly subtle) enquiries lead her to find a diary whose entries point to a staff member, and later, when she teams up with ninety-two-year-old Sir Angus, what looks like a treasure map. A sketch book and a St Christopher medallion also offer clues.
Unlike the first book in the series, this one doesn’t have an unwieldy cast to remember, but the story does rather drag in places and the resolution is not entirely satisfactory. Mouse the dog saves this instalment from a lower rating, and more of this cast in #3, Murder in Bloom is not really tempting. An adequate cosy.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Embla Books.
She’s made welcome by all the staff, with the notable exception of William Blythe, the head gardener, who seems to resent her appointment, somehow feeling his own role is being usurped. Mouse takes well to everyone except Blythe, soon becoming a much-needed support dog when things turn nasty. Mouse is also overjoyed to spend time with Mirabelle, the wolfhound owned by Lady Clara’s brother, Dickie Spencer.
But barely two weeks into her stay, a favourite member of staff, Jamie Lennox is found hanging in his room. Steph is one of the first on the scene, and although the police conclude that Jamie took his own life, a few things that Steph has noticed have convinced her otherwise.
Steph initially spends a lot of her time measuring and sketching, consulting the plans Geroge London had made for the gardens back in the eighteenth Century, which include a yew maze, a croquet lawn and two fountains; later, she pulls out diseased box hedge and the brambles that cover one of the fountains, but she still has time to investigate Jamie’s death.
Her (mostly subtle) enquiries lead her to find a diary whose entries point to a staff member, and later, when she teams up with ninety-two-year-old Sir Angus, what looks like a treasure map. A sketch book and a St Christopher medallion also offer clues.
Unlike the first book in the series, this one doesn’t have an unwieldy cast to remember, but the story does rather drag in places and the resolution is not entirely satisfactory. Mouse the dog saves this instalment from a lower rating, and more of this cast in #3, Murder in Bloom is not really tempting. An adequate cosy.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Embla Books.
April 16, 2024
Steph arrives at her next assignment. She's been commissioned by Lady Clara of Ashford Manor to restore the home's formerly lovely gardens to their glory.
She meets the staff, most of whom are happy to get to know her, and the totally adorable and friendly Mouse. The only exception is the head gardener, who is adversarial and dismissive of Steph from the get go. The other staff members assure her that he's always like this.
When one of the staff appears to have killed himself, everyone and everything is thrown into chaos and depression. The young man was well liked by everyone; he was kind and funny and always willing to go a little further to welcome and care for others.
Though some are willing to accept that the young man committed suicide, Steph knows immediately that this makes no sense, and she begins looking at everyone at the estate in an effort to find out why anyone would want to harm such a kind person.
There are multiple suspects, and definitely something shady going on under the nose of Lady Clara, with greed and the fear of exposure of a lucrative but criminal scheme forming the motive.
Steph is relentless, even while she digs out weeds, invasive plants, and finds ways to bring the gardens back to life.
Author Rosie Sandler does a good job of characterizing the relevant support characters, and laying the groundwork for the revelation of the killer.
Mouse remains a superstar, doing a fantastic job of opening doors for Steph's nosy questions, while also making friends, whether dog or human, wherever he goes. And he's a fantastic protector of cats, making him even more lovely as a character.
I like that Steph's ongoing issues with her parents discomfort with Steph's desire to meet her birth mum is still present, though diminished, and that though she's eager, Steph is also nervous about what this could mean to her life.
I also like that Steph moves from location to location for each new book, as it keeps things interesting (and more credible than sticking to one village with an insane body count).
I am eager to find out where Steph and Mouse and up next!
Thank you to Netgalley and to Embla Booksfor this ARC in exchange for my review.
She meets the staff, most of whom are happy to get to know her, and the totally adorable and friendly Mouse. The only exception is the head gardener, who is adversarial and dismissive of Steph from the get go. The other staff members assure her that he's always like this.
When one of the staff appears to have killed himself, everyone and everything is thrown into chaos and depression. The young man was well liked by everyone; he was kind and funny and always willing to go a little further to welcome and care for others.
Though some are willing to accept that the young man committed suicide, Steph knows immediately that this makes no sense, and she begins looking at everyone at the estate in an effort to find out why anyone would want to harm such a kind person.
There are multiple suspects, and definitely something shady going on under the nose of Lady Clara, with greed and the fear of exposure of a lucrative but criminal scheme forming the motive.
Steph is relentless, even while she digs out weeds, invasive plants, and finds ways to bring the gardens back to life.
Author Rosie Sandler does a good job of characterizing the relevant support characters, and laying the groundwork for the revelation of the killer.
Mouse remains a superstar, doing a fantastic job of opening doors for Steph's nosy questions, while also making friends, whether dog or human, wherever he goes. And he's a fantastic protector of cats, making him even more lovely as a character.
I like that Steph's ongoing issues with her parents discomfort with Steph's desire to meet her birth mum is still present, though diminished, and that though she's eager, Steph is also nervous about what this could mean to her life.
I also like that Steph moves from location to location for each new book, as it keeps things interesting (and more credible than sticking to one village with an insane body count).
I am eager to find out where Steph and Mouse and up next!
Thank you to Netgalley and to Embla Booksfor this ARC in exchange for my review.
July 11, 2025
Utter dross! Why the narrator felt it necessary to point out the ethnicity of most of the characters she encountered is beyond comprehension as it had nothing whatsoever to do with the narrative. Dire plot, weak characters, dogs having 'dates' - the gardening bits were easily the best! One of the worst of the current fad of so-called cosy crime. Will not be reading any more of this series.
July 29, 2025
This was really quite bad but I’ve given it an extra star because I really relate to the protagonist constantly talking about how much she loves her dog and how well behaved her dog is even though the dog repeatedly does not do what he’s told because that’s so relatable and real.
May 12, 2024
First-I didn’t realize this was the second book in the series but it didn’t matter. The story stood on it own. I really liked this “cozy” mystery with gardening, estates with a dysfunctional family, and of course Mouse, who is my favorite character. This lovable dog steals the show at times. So glad Steph has him as a companion. I will definitely be looking out for the first book to read.
May 5, 2024
I really love this series and am so glad I took a chance on it!
This one was sadder than book 1 was [], but it was an excellent mystery with a baddie I didn't see coming until close to the end and there was a great cast of characters that added to the red herring aspects, which this author excels at. Add in her father and his crazy gardening, an important upcoming meeting and fantastic dogs and cats galore, and this story was one of the better ones I have read as of late. I also really like that each book is a new job/location, with new characters to get to know; I find that very refreshing and it keeps the stories fresh as well.
My only issue was the rushed [and a little flat] reveal [which is my least favorite thing with some of the new mysteries I have been reading]. After all it took to get to the end, with all the clues, I felt the end could have had a little more oof than it did [though Mouse ftw right?], but ultimately it didn't take away from the story as a whole.
I am so looking forward to book 3 [and hopefully beyond]!!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Rosie Sandler, and Embla Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This one was sadder than book 1 was [], but it was an excellent mystery with a baddie I didn't see coming until close to the end and there was a great cast of characters that added to the red herring aspects, which this author excels at. Add in her father and his crazy gardening, an important upcoming meeting and fantastic dogs and cats galore, and this story was one of the better ones I have read as of late. I also really like that each book is a new job/location, with new characters to get to know; I find that very refreshing and it keeps the stories fresh as well.
My only issue was the rushed [and a little flat] reveal [which is my least favorite thing with some of the new mysteries I have been reading]. After all it took to get to the end, with all the clues, I felt the end could have had a little more oof than it did [though Mouse ftw right?], but ultimately it didn't take away from the story as a whole.
I am so looking forward to book 3 [and hopefully beyond]!!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Rosie Sandler, and Embla Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2024
Murder Takes Root
The Gardener Mysteries Book 2
Steph has been commissioned to restore the stately gardens at Ashford Manor. Steph and her dog Mouse are readily accepted by all of the staff, with the exception of the surly head gardener. When one of the staff is found dead in his room, the police are quick to deem it a suicide, but Steph is sure it was murder, and is determined to find justice for her young friend. This book starts off slowly but picks up pace about halfway through. There are multiple suspects and red herrings and I was surprised by who the culprit turned out to be. I like that each book takes place in a new setting with a new cast of characters. I especially enjoy the antics of Stephs sweet dog Mouse. My thanks to netgalley and Embla Books for this book read and review.
The Gardener Mysteries Book 2
Steph has been commissioned to restore the stately gardens at Ashford Manor. Steph and her dog Mouse are readily accepted by all of the staff, with the exception of the surly head gardener. When one of the staff is found dead in his room, the police are quick to deem it a suicide, but Steph is sure it was murder, and is determined to find justice for her young friend. This book starts off slowly but picks up pace about halfway through. There are multiple suspects and red herrings and I was surprised by who the culprit turned out to be. I like that each book takes place in a new setting with a new cast of characters. I especially enjoy the antics of Stephs sweet dog Mouse. My thanks to netgalley and Embla Books for this book read and review.
March 7, 2024
I had read the first in the series, but you don't need to have done that to enjoy this because Rosie catches you up with the bits you need to know.
Steph Williams is a garden consultant; her new commission is to restore the landscape gardens of Lady Clara's ancestral home. She and her lovely dog Mouse get on well with most of her fellow employees at Ashford Manor - apart from one, who doesn't seem to get on with anyone. But then the most popular staff member is found dead. The police think it's suicide, but Steph is sure it's murder - and so she investigates.
Good characterisation; tight plot; lovely snippets of gardening; good red herrings; and Angus is an utterly fabulous character!
Five stars.
Steph Williams is a garden consultant; her new commission is to restore the landscape gardens of Lady Clara's ancestral home. She and her lovely dog Mouse get on well with most of her fellow employees at Ashford Manor - apart from one, who doesn't seem to get on with anyone. But then the most popular staff member is found dead. The police think it's suicide, but Steph is sure it's murder - and so she investigates.
Good characterisation; tight plot; lovely snippets of gardening; good red herrings; and Angus is an utterly fabulous character!
Five stars.
May 11, 2024
I never thought I would enjoy a book about gardening so much! Steph is interesting and her dog, Mouse really makes the story. I think it's interesting that Steph changes jobs every book. In this one, Steph is restoring a garden to it's former glory.
Steph meets a charming and funny young man named Jamie. When she and another staff member find Jamie dead of a supposed suicide. Steph doesn't believe it for a minute and starts asking questions. The house is full of intersting characters, including the eighty or ninety something (he keeps changing his age)!
I love the subplot of the drama of Steph's missing ex-husband and evolving relationship with her family.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
Steph meets a charming and funny young man named Jamie. When she and another staff member find Jamie dead of a supposed suicide. Steph doesn't believe it for a minute and starts asking questions. The house is full of intersting characters, including the eighty or ninety something (he keeps changing his age)!
I love the subplot of the drama of Steph's missing ex-husband and evolving relationship with her family.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
June 1, 2024
Just what I was after - a cosy, not too serious, not gruesome, murder who-dunnit. The bonus addition of botanical trivia was fun!
I haven’t read #1 in the series but coming in at #2 was absolutely fine.
I haven’t read #1 in the series but coming in at #2 was absolutely fine.
March 12, 2025
I didn't realise it was the second in the series but it works as a standalone. I will be going back to the first one!
May 17, 2025
No more audiobooks with this series for me too slow and technical glitch that would not plat lat 3% of the book.First book one was better for this reader. The orchid theme did not appeal but I did like the change of scene and new cast of characters in this tale.
Read
February 15, 2024Steph has a wonderful job - she is a consultant on historic gardens and this post looks nearly perfect. Then a young servant is found dead and Steph is sure it was not suicide. Lots of charming gardening details, a very likable hero and her dog and an ever changing setting. Cannot wait to read the next title.
February 29, 2024
Cute, cozy mystery. For being short, I feel like a lot of characterization and setting is packed in. I would definitely read more books in the series. I like especially that Steph is a landscaper and so independent, it reminded me a bit of Circe by Madeleine Miller.
January 25, 2024
#MurderTakesRoot #NetGalley is the second book in The Gardener Mysteries by Rosie Sandler.
As Steph and her dog, Mouse prepare for their next gardening job, she hopes to avoid another murder investigation this time.
Unfortunately, Steph finds herself involved in another murder, this time the victim is a sweet young man, and for some reason, she can't let his death go unsolved.
Working with Lady Clara and her colorful family leads Steph to uncover clues, and slowly she begins to put the pieces together.
This book is wonderful, I enjoyed reading it, especially the parts with Uncle Angus and Mouse's companion, Belle.
Steph is a good character and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
As Steph and her dog, Mouse prepare for their next gardening job, she hopes to avoid another murder investigation this time.
Unfortunately, Steph finds herself involved in another murder, this time the victim is a sweet young man, and for some reason, she can't let his death go unsolved.
Working with Lady Clara and her colorful family leads Steph to uncover clues, and slowly she begins to put the pieces together.
This book is wonderful, I enjoyed reading it, especially the parts with Uncle Angus and Mouse's companion, Belle.
Steph is a good character and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
January 24, 2025
What cozy magic was this book written with?! I could not put it down! Murder Takes Root is the second in a series, and can fully be read without reading the first (which I did). Although this book is SLOW (picks up around 40%), it is slow in the most charming, sweet, delightful way possible. There is so much going on that it distracts you from the pace, and I mean that in such a positive way. The FMC, Steph, is juggling a new job, advising her dad with his gardening escapades, keeping in touch with her brother, dealing with her crazy ex, cuddling with her dog Mouse, and solving a murder. There is so much jam packed into this book and I've never really read anything like it. The author did a great job making you truly care for the team of characters (there are a lot!), and I would do anything for sweet old Angus. I saw there was a third book coming out in September and I am eagerly awaiting its publication!
Thanks to Netgalley, Embla books, and the author for this eARC.
Thanks to Netgalley, Embla books, and the author for this eARC.
February 20, 2024
Murder Takes Root was really more of a gardening and plant lesson for dog lovers than a murder mystery.
The repeating of the toy, sleeping in various postures, licking, playing, running, barking, and being the best dog someone could have are just a few of the things a reader can endure about Mouse.
I find it hard to comprehend how Steph concluded this was murder based only on her observation of the body from a distance, especially without any reasons just a feeling, since others who witness a person hanged claim it was suicide .
My issue with the hidden clues was that they were a gamble bet on being found given their lack of acquaintance over the week ..
Over all, this is a sad disappointment as I was taken in by the 5 and 4 stars.
An independent review for NetGalley / Embla Books
The repeating of the toy, sleeping in various postures, licking, playing, running, barking, and being the best dog someone could have are just a few of the things a reader can endure about Mouse.
I find it hard to comprehend how Steph concluded this was murder based only on her observation of the body from a distance, especially without any reasons just a feeling, since others who witness a person hanged claim it was suicide .
My issue with the hidden clues was that they were a gamble bet on being found given their lack of acquaintance over the week ..
Over all, this is a sad disappointment as I was taken in by the 5 and 4 stars.
An independent review for NetGalley / Embla Books
September 29, 2025
DNF at 55%
I thought it had potential but I swear 50% of this book so far has been about the dog going out for a walk, sniffing sticks, having dinner, licking people or barking. The other 50% is the newly employed gardener at the grand estate just accepting things as they are- a potential murder? Not even a shudder. The lack of emotions in this book is appalling. So here's another book that could teach me nothing more than 'oh if that has been published, I should be a writer too'. Just write about cooking stews and choosing bedding whilst the body whose death is a mystery is cooling down in the other room and call it a cosy mystery.
I thought it had potential but I swear 50% of this book so far has been about the dog going out for a walk, sniffing sticks, having dinner, licking people or barking. The other 50% is the newly employed gardener at the grand estate just accepting things as they are- a potential murder? Not even a shudder. The lack of emotions in this book is appalling. So here's another book that could teach me nothing more than 'oh if that has been published, I should be a writer too'. Just write about cooking stews and choosing bedding whilst the body whose death is a mystery is cooling down in the other room and call it a cosy mystery.
January 16, 2025
I didn't really like the first book that much but thought I'd give this one a go because I found myself committed to the series.
It wasn't for me. There is not much mystery, absolutely no romance, and way too many characters. I had no idea who was who. And as for the dog(s).... Sorry, but I'm not a dog person. The story seems to be written by a dog person for dog obsessed readers, and that's completely not me, so it really put me off.
It wasn't for me. There is not much mystery, absolutely no romance, and way too many characters. I had no idea who was who. And as for the dog(s).... Sorry, but I'm not a dog person. The story seems to be written by a dog person for dog obsessed readers, and that's completely not me, so it really put me off.
September 26, 2025
Boooooooring.
The amount of unnecessary detail in this book is insane, but clearly the author had to do that otherwise the book would only be 25 pages. if I had to hear about one more meal that Steph ate I was going to throw my book at the wall.
I saw the high reviews for this on Goodreads and thought I would give it another chance since I did not enjoy the first book either; this will officially end my journey with Steph and Mouse
The amount of unnecessary detail in this book is insane, but clearly the author had to do that otherwise the book would only be 25 pages. if I had to hear about one more meal that Steph ate I was going to throw my book at the wall.
I saw the high reviews for this on Goodreads and thought I would give it another chance since I did not enjoy the first book either; this will officially end my journey with Steph and Mouse
August 10, 2025
Not usually my genre, but I really enjoyed ‘Murder Takes Root!’
I didn’t realise this was the second book in a series of mystery novels, but that didn’t impact my reading experience at all. The book stands largely on its own, and i didn’t feel as though i was missing out on anything by not reading the prior one.
PROS:
Our MC, Steph Williams, is a horticulturist who enjoys being an amateur detective whenever there’s a mystery to solve. She is tasked with restoring a garden at an old manor house, occupied by a lively cast of characters— each one of which have clearly developed motivations. I found myself happily surprised that this level of thought was put into such a short book.
The cosy mystery starts off slowly. Nothing of note happens up until just under halfway through. Before that, the cosiness is really emphasised through sessions of Steph gardening, getting to know the manor residents, and cuddling with her dog: Mouse. All of this, however, managed to remain interesting.
Jamie’s ‘suicide’ is the real turning point of the book. It still keeps its cosy, relatively low-stakes atmosphere but Steph spends more and more of her time trying to investigate Jamie’s sudden death. She manages to unearth some more nefarious business going on in the background, and eventually manages to piece together Jamie’s murder.
MINOR ISSUES:
Despite all the good aspects of this book, there are a few issues I have. Firstly, the ending felt slightly rushed. After a whole lot of build up, it felt like some of the connections Steph began making between the clues were her grasping at straws. The evidence felt a bit thin, but i can’t deny that the final reveal was still good and won’t put me off reading another in the series.
Secondly, the description of A LOT of the characters felt a tad unnecessary. I’m not sure if that’s the norm in the mystery genre though, so I can’t complain too much.
Either way, this book was a ton of fun and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quick, calming read.
4/5.
I didn’t realise this was the second book in a series of mystery novels, but that didn’t impact my reading experience at all. The book stands largely on its own, and i didn’t feel as though i was missing out on anything by not reading the prior one.
PROS:
Our MC, Steph Williams, is a horticulturist who enjoys being an amateur detective whenever there’s a mystery to solve. She is tasked with restoring a garden at an old manor house, occupied by a lively cast of characters— each one of which have clearly developed motivations. I found myself happily surprised that this level of thought was put into such a short book.
The cosy mystery starts off slowly. Nothing of note happens up until just under halfway through. Before that, the cosiness is really emphasised through sessions of Steph gardening, getting to know the manor residents, and cuddling with her dog: Mouse. All of this, however, managed to remain interesting.
Jamie’s ‘suicide’ is the real turning point of the book. It still keeps its cosy, relatively low-stakes atmosphere but Steph spends more and more of her time trying to investigate Jamie’s sudden death. She manages to unearth some more nefarious business going on in the background, and eventually manages to piece together Jamie’s murder.
MINOR ISSUES:
Despite all the good aspects of this book, there are a few issues I have. Firstly, the ending felt slightly rushed. After a whole lot of build up, it felt like some of the connections Steph began making between the clues were her grasping at straws. The evidence felt a bit thin, but i can’t deny that the final reveal was still good and won’t put me off reading another in the series.
Secondly, the description of A LOT of the characters felt a tad unnecessary. I’m not sure if that’s the norm in the mystery genre though, so I can’t complain too much.
Either way, this book was a ton of fun and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quick, calming read.
4/5.
April 3, 2024
Murder Takes Root by Rosie Sandler is the second in a series featuring Steph Williams who is a landscape architect who works primarily for wealthy people designing or makomg a plan to refurbish gardens that have been cared for poorly. She arrives at the home of Lady Clara Fanshawe and her husband and is immediately taken with the number of odd people who live there. She is given the tower, yes, tower, in which she and her dog, Mouse, will spend the next several months. Almost on the first night she hears a fight(?) coming from a room in the house parallel to her space. As she tries to follow the noise, she finds locked doors. Everyone is welcoming enough, except for the head gardener who resents her presence and doesn’t like her dog. She tries several more times to follow the disconcerting noises until one day she comes upon an, apparently, autistic youth, curled up outside. Turns out he is the brother of one of the staff and staying here surreptitiously. Just another odd coincidence until that same brother is found hanged in his room.
Steph is a good guest. She communicates well with the people for whom she works and the other employees. She is clever and creative and truly cares for the people she knows. There is an over-arcing plot line in which her ex-husband has disappeared and his girlfriend, who has befriended Steph, is still trying to find him. The police want to call Jamie’s death a suicide but Steph sees it as a murder and works to prove her viewpoint. It was a good mystery and Steph is a good sleuth, as well as keeping up with her redesign and dog sitting for Lady Clara’s brother’s dog, with whom Mouse is infatuated. It is a fun story with plenty going on as well as some gardening tidbits thrown in for good measure. Thanks Rosie Sandler for a fun read!
I was invited to read Murder Takes Root by Embla Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #EmblaBooks #RosieSandler #MurderTakesRoot
Steph is a good guest. She communicates well with the people for whom she works and the other employees. She is clever and creative and truly cares for the people she knows. There is an over-arcing plot line in which her ex-husband has disappeared and his girlfriend, who has befriended Steph, is still trying to find him. The police want to call Jamie’s death a suicide but Steph sees it as a murder and works to prove her viewpoint. It was a good mystery and Steph is a good sleuth, as well as keeping up with her redesign and dog sitting for Lady Clara’s brother’s dog, with whom Mouse is infatuated. It is a fun story with plenty going on as well as some gardening tidbits thrown in for good measure. Thanks Rosie Sandler for a fun read!
I was invited to read Murder Takes Root by Embla Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #EmblaBooks #RosieSandler #MurderTakesRoot
August 11, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Murder Takes Root is the second gardener cozy mystery featuring Steph Williams by Rosie Sandler. Released 3rd April 2024 by Bonnier on their Embla Books imprint, it's 272 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other books in the series (there's a 3rd due out from the same publisher in 1st quarter 2025) are also available on KU.
This is a well written, eminently readable, action driven cozy murder mystery. It's got a sympathetic amateur sleuth who's a gardener to the rich and privileged in the main role, a varied selection of quirky-to-downright-dislikable suspects, murder, blackmail, and lots of fun facts about gardening and plants. It's abundantly clear that the author is a keen horticulturalist or employs a stable of fact checkers/researchers.
The setup mechanic of the series is appealing and fresh; each new book will be set in a new place with the same main character in new gardening situations and with new mysteries to figure out.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Murder Takes Root is the second gardener cozy mystery featuring Steph Williams by Rosie Sandler. Released 3rd April 2024 by Bonnier on their Embla Books imprint, it's 272 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other books in the series (there's a 3rd due out from the same publisher in 1st quarter 2025) are also available on KU.
This is a well written, eminently readable, action driven cozy murder mystery. It's got a sympathetic amateur sleuth who's a gardener to the rich and privileged in the main role, a varied selection of quirky-to-downright-dislikable suspects, murder, blackmail, and lots of fun facts about gardening and plants. It's abundantly clear that the author is a keen horticulturalist or employs a stable of fact checkers/researchers.
The setup mechanic of the series is appealing and fresh; each new book will be set in a new place with the same main character in new gardening situations and with new mysteries to figure out.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Read
February 28, 2026Certainly cozy, does what you'd expect, and heavily features a large dog named Mouse who everyone loves.
There's some stunning levels of middle class from Steph, a gardening consultant who plans restoration work for historic gardens at stately homes. Particularly because she spends half the time talking to the landed gentry, and half interacting with the teen/20-something staff who cook and clean.
And even more, she has this conflict with Blythe, the head gardener - but as she points out several times, she's there to do surveys and draw up plans, she only does garden work when she's pottering around and feels like it and will call in contractors for the bulk of it. Blythe is actually responsible for *doing the work* day to day for the whole gardens. He's rude and hostile, but she's the one coming in with fancy art degrees and the boss's ear and a budget, and I think it's on her to establish boundaries and not step on his toes, and not snark about him not doing as much maintenance as she'd like?
Also, just a minor thing, but Steph seems surprisingly ready to grab knives when she feels threatened. Like, it's a murder mystery and she works with a lot of gardening tools, but she seems *very* confident of her ability to stab a guy?
Secret dragon: Hidden in a cave under the parterre. She's a maiden who lives at the top of a tower, of course there's a dragon - probably the contractors removing the box hedges will disturb it from its centuries-long sleep.
There's some stunning levels of middle class from Steph, a gardening consultant who plans restoration work for historic gardens at stately homes. Particularly because she spends half the time talking to the landed gentry, and half interacting with the teen/20-something staff who cook and clean.
And even more, she has this conflict with Blythe, the head gardener - but as she points out several times, she's there to do surveys and draw up plans, she only does garden work when she's pottering around and feels like it and will call in contractors for the bulk of it. Blythe is actually responsible for *doing the work* day to day for the whole gardens. He's rude and hostile, but she's the one coming in with fancy art degrees and the boss's ear and a budget, and I think it's on her to establish boundaries and not step on his toes, and not snark about him not doing as much maintenance as she'd like?
Also, just a minor thing, but Steph seems surprisingly ready to grab knives when she feels threatened. Like, it's a murder mystery and she works with a lot of gardening tools, but she seems *very* confident of her ability to stab a guy?
Secret dragon: Hidden in a cave under the parterre. She's a maiden who lives at the top of a tower, of course there's a dragon - probably the contractors removing the box hedges will disturb it from its centuries-long sleep.
April 2, 2024
This is the second book in what's turning out to be a wonderful series. Steph's latest gardening project is on the Ashford Manor estate and it quickly becomes clear that an infestation in the garden will be the least of her worries. Sir Angus a nonagenarian who thinks someone is poisoning him, shouting and arguing in the middle of the night, a hostile and secretive head gardener and a suspicious sudden death all create a tense atmosphere of mystery and danger.
Lightheartedness and heartwarming scenes emerge primarily with Steph's dog, Mouse and the estate's dog, Belle. The side characters are a friendly and likable bunch of people and it made me sad when the murder happened as the young victim was fun loving and had taken on the responsibility of caring for his autistic brother.
The mystery kept me guessing as there were one or two characters I thought could definitely be involved and I was surprised when the big reveal came.
Because of the temporary nature of Steph's jobs there aren't a lot of recurring characters such as friends or romantic interests for Steph. But, her family do make appearrances and I so enjoyed their interactions especially those between Steph and her Dad. I'm intrigued as to what will happen when Steph meets her biological mum!
Lightheartedness and heartwarming scenes emerge primarily with Steph's dog, Mouse and the estate's dog, Belle. The side characters are a friendly and likable bunch of people and it made me sad when the murder happened as the young victim was fun loving and had taken on the responsibility of caring for his autistic brother.
The mystery kept me guessing as there were one or two characters I thought could definitely be involved and I was surprised when the big reveal came.
Because of the temporary nature of Steph's jobs there aren't a lot of recurring characters such as friends or romantic interests for Steph. But, her family do make appearrances and I so enjoyed their interactions especially those between Steph and her Dad. I'm intrigued as to what will happen when Steph meets her biological mum!
February 5, 2024
This is a series I can get behind on so many levels! I adore cozy mysteries, they are my guilty pleasure and always a good read. My go-to's are usually based in the 1920's or Victorian eras, but can I get behind a gardener, her dog and grandpa? Oh yes! This book is enchanting with a capital EEEEEE!
Steph is commissioned by Lady Clara of Ashford Manor to embark on an immense task;, to reinvigorate the gardens
However, chaos ensues when a dead body isfound in the manor. The police dismiss it as a voluntary unaliving, but Steph, our erstwhile FMC, cannot let it go so easily. She knew the deceased and knew they would not do such a thing and as such, the only answer is... murder! Booo hissssss to the staff getting in the way, what are their reasons??
Steph is so relatable and utterly adorable and the core of side characters are charming, Mouse her dog, her grandfather, even Lady Clara who is a gem!
Recommend highly and will certainly be folllowing this author as a favourite for my cozy mystery fix!
Thank you to Netgalley, Embla Books and Rosie Sandler for this lovely Arc. My review is left voluntarily and all opiions are my own.
Steph is commissioned by Lady Clara of Ashford Manor to embark on an immense task;, to reinvigorate the gardens
However, chaos ensues when a dead body isfound in the manor. The police dismiss it as a voluntary unaliving, but Steph, our erstwhile FMC, cannot let it go so easily. She knew the deceased and knew they would not do such a thing and as such, the only answer is... murder! Booo hissssss to the staff getting in the way, what are their reasons??
Steph is so relatable and utterly adorable and the core of side characters are charming, Mouse her dog, her grandfather, even Lady Clara who is a gem!
Recommend highly and will certainly be folllowing this author as a favourite for my cozy mystery fix!
Thank you to Netgalley, Embla Books and Rosie Sandler for this lovely Arc. My review is left voluntarily and all opiions are my own.
February 11, 2024
This is a great second book in this series. I love gardener/landscaper Steph and her dog, Mouse. The murder in this book almost breaks my heart--I'm so sad at the loss of this particular character. I really care about them. The other secondary characters are strong too, with the exception of one very flat character who--no surprise--ends up being part of the criminal aspect in the book. The relationships between Steph and her brother and his family, Mouse and the older gardener, Mouse and Belle, Steph and Angus, Jamie and his brother...there are so many affirming relationships in this book, and I love them! I also like the realistic portrayal of a caring family dealing with the logistics of having a loved one with autism.
The author does a fabulous job of finding just the right balance between the world of the main character's job and passion and the world of the murder, weaving them both inextricably together. The only thing that keeps this one from being 5 stars is that one guilty party who's too obvious.
Still, I can't wait for Steph's next adventure!
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The author does a fabulous job of finding just the right balance between the world of the main character's job and passion and the world of the murder, weaving them both inextricably together. The only thing that keeps this one from being 5 stars is that one guilty party who's too obvious.
Still, I can't wait for Steph's next adventure!
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2024
Murder Takes Root by Rosie Sandler is the second in the charm-drenched Gardener Mysteries series. It's deliciously cozy but it has oomph, too.
Garden Consultant Steph is newly responsible for restoring Lady Clara's fabulous gardens. She gets to know the staff and others and passionately digs into her job. However, she gets more than she bargains for when a staff member is found dead in his room. Something about it doesn't feel right so Steph investigates. She unravels the mystery, bit by bit, and has help.
As a master gardener, my heart soared while reading the horticultural side of things. Not only are the descriptions lovely but most of the characters are endearing, including Mouse and Belle. There are plenty of clever red herrings and twisty turns. Though there is some predictability, my reading joy wasn't let down one iota. This novel clicked with me as I basked in the beautifully-written words and allowed myself to be utterly transported to Ashford Manor and its upstairs/downstairs feel. Autism is sensitively and deftly handled.
My sincere thank you to Embla Books and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this engrossing novel.
Garden Consultant Steph is newly responsible for restoring Lady Clara's fabulous gardens. She gets to know the staff and others and passionately digs into her job. However, she gets more than she bargains for when a staff member is found dead in his room. Something about it doesn't feel right so Steph investigates. She unravels the mystery, bit by bit, and has help.
As a master gardener, my heart soared while reading the horticultural side of things. Not only are the descriptions lovely but most of the characters are endearing, including Mouse and Belle. There are plenty of clever red herrings and twisty turns. Though there is some predictability, my reading joy wasn't let down one iota. This novel clicked with me as I basked in the beautifully-written words and allowed myself to be utterly transported to Ashford Manor and its upstairs/downstairs feel. Autism is sensitively and deftly handled.
My sincere thank you to Embla Books and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this engrossing novel.
March 29, 2024
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley, Rosie Sandler and Embla Books for this ARC.
Murder Takes Root is book 2 in The Gardener Mysteries series.
Steph has been hired as a garden consultant at the Ashford Manor where she is also given a place to stay in a fairytale-like tower. The staff at the manor are welcoming and friendly with Steph all except for the head gardener. But when one of the staff allegedly commits suicide, Steph is certain that it is in fact a murder!
So I wanted to read a nice, cozy mystery and found the first book in the series through Prime reading and when I finished the book I had a look for this book and if it was available to read but saw that it hadn't been released it yet. But then I thought I'd check on NetGalley to see if they had an ARC and to my surprise they did!
I enjoyed this book just as much as the first and liked how it takes place in a different setting with new characters. I look forward to reading the next book in the series soon.
Murder Takes Root is book 2 in The Gardener Mysteries series.
Steph has been hired as a garden consultant at the Ashford Manor where she is also given a place to stay in a fairytale-like tower. The staff at the manor are welcoming and friendly with Steph all except for the head gardener. But when one of the staff allegedly commits suicide, Steph is certain that it is in fact a murder!
So I wanted to read a nice, cozy mystery and found the first book in the series through Prime reading and when I finished the book I had a look for this book and if it was available to read but saw that it hadn't been released it yet. But then I thought I'd check on NetGalley to see if they had an ARC and to my surprise they did!
I enjoyed this book just as much as the first and liked how it takes place in a different setting with new characters. I look forward to reading the next book in the series soon.
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