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Enchanted Garden Mystery #1
Daisies for Innocence
From Bailey Cattrell—who writes the New York Times bestselling Magical Bakery Mysteries as Bailey Cates—comes the first Enchanted Garden Mystery featuring custom perfume maker Elliana Allbright...
The Enchanted Garden behind Elliana Allbright’s perfume shop draws people of all ages with its fragrant flowers and lush greenery. But when the magical serenity is interrupted, it’s up to Ellie to sniff out a killer.
Ellie’s life has blossomed in Poppyville, California, since she opened Scents & Nonsense, a custom-made-perfume store. Her skills with aromas and botanical essences—some from her very own garden—seem almost…supernatural. Her perfumes can evoke emotions, bring about change, or simply make people happy. Customers are flocking to the store to buy her wares or just to sit in her beautiful garden, sip tea and enjoy homemade cookies.
But she smells trouble when she learns that her part-time assistant Josie is dating her ex. And before she can tell the young woman to beware of his charms, she finds Josie dead in the Enchanted Garden. Now the prime suspect in Josie’s murder, Ellie must search for the real culprit in Josie’s past—because it’ll take a miracle to nip this problem in the bud....
The Enchanted Garden behind Elliana Allbright’s perfume shop draws people of all ages with its fragrant flowers and lush greenery. But when the magical serenity is interrupted, it’s up to Ellie to sniff out a killer.
Ellie’s life has blossomed in Poppyville, California, since she opened Scents & Nonsense, a custom-made-perfume store. Her skills with aromas and botanical essences—some from her very own garden—seem almost…supernatural. Her perfumes can evoke emotions, bring about change, or simply make people happy. Customers are flocking to the store to buy her wares or just to sit in her beautiful garden, sip tea and enjoy homemade cookies.
But she smells trouble when she learns that her part-time assistant Josie is dating her ex. And before she can tell the young woman to beware of his charms, she finds Josie dead in the Enchanted Garden. Now the prime suspect in Josie’s murder, Ellie must search for the real culprit in Josie’s past—because it’ll take a miracle to nip this problem in the bud....
326 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 5, 2016
183 people are currently reading
3319 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 337 reviews
September 9, 2018
I loved everthing about this book!It was just as wonderful as her magical bakery series,I think this series is going to be a new favourite for me.As someone who loves plants and gardening,I was practically drooling over Ellie's garden and wishing it was real so I could go visit.Overall I highly recommend this author to anyone who loves a little magic in their cozies
June 8, 2017
Really enjoyed this one, much more so than the "witchy" bakery series she writes as Bailey Cates. Good characters and setting and a very good mystery. Looking forward to reading the 2nd! RECOMMEND!
December 15, 2015
Author Bailey Cattrell (also known as Bailey Cates of the Magical Bakery series) has sowed the seeds of a wonderful new mystery series.
DAISIES FOR INNOCENCE, book one in the Enchanted Garden Mystery series, is wonderfully plotted with lots of twists to keep you on your toes. And the exciting reveal will have you on the edge of your seat.
I kept thinking of this story for some time after reading it. Protagonist Elliana “Ellie” Allbright, is simply a magical character I really enjoyed getting to know, as I did the supporting characters. I could picture myself sitting in Ellie’s lovely garden surrounded by all the enchanting flowers, and surprises that fill it. Taking in the enticing scents, enjoying tea and conversation. It really came to life for me.
The Enchanted Garden Mystery series is sure to be a scent-sational hit with mystery fans!
Be sure to check out the back of the book for recipes, aromatherapy, and an excerpt from BROWNIES AND BROOMSTICKS by Bailey Cates.
DAISIES FOR INNOCENCE, book one in the Enchanted Garden Mystery series, is wonderfully plotted with lots of twists to keep you on your toes. And the exciting reveal will have you on the edge of your seat.
I kept thinking of this story for some time after reading it. Protagonist Elliana “Ellie” Allbright, is simply a magical character I really enjoyed getting to know, as I did the supporting characters. I could picture myself sitting in Ellie’s lovely garden surrounded by all the enchanting flowers, and surprises that fill it. Taking in the enticing scents, enjoying tea and conversation. It really came to life for me.
The Enchanted Garden Mystery series is sure to be a scent-sational hit with mystery fans!
Be sure to check out the back of the book for recipes, aromatherapy, and an excerpt from BROWNIES AND BROOMSTICKS by Bailey Cates.
January 4, 2016
Daisies For Innocence is the first book in the An Enchanted Garden Mystery series.
I found this to be a quite interesting new series. It centers around a shop where the owner blends perfume and provides aromatherapy blends for her customers.
Ellie Allbright is life has been a lot more since opening Scents and Nonsense. She has a quaint little store where she mixes perfumes and also provides aroma essences. Behind her store she has a beautiful little garden where she raises many of the plants she uses in her store.
But she has the proverbial bump in the road when she finds her part time employee murdered near the gate to her garden. Josie also worked for Ellie ex-husband Harris, at his restaurant and was also dating him. Based on information from his good friend Harris, Detective Max Lang feels sure that Ellie, out of jealousy, murdered Josie. Fortunately, his partner, Lupe Garcia isn't so sure and is willing to keep an open mind.
Ellie begins to gather more information about Josie past, hoping that some bit of information will point her in the direction of the real murderer.
The author provides the reader with an interesting cast of characters, that most would like to call their friends. Ellie knows that she needs someone to help and select the handsome, Ritter Nelson, brother of the owner of Terra Green Nursery, Thea Nelson. Maybe Ellie's high school crush on Ritter can be rekindled. The author also nicely includes interesting facts about the plants that are grown in Ellie's garden.
Recipes and aromatherapy tips and blends are also included
Will be watching for the next story from Poppyville, CA.
I found this to be a quite interesting new series. It centers around a shop where the owner blends perfume and provides aromatherapy blends for her customers.
Ellie Allbright is life has been a lot more since opening Scents and Nonsense. She has a quaint little store where she mixes perfumes and also provides aroma essences. Behind her store she has a beautiful little garden where she raises many of the plants she uses in her store.
But she has the proverbial bump in the road when she finds her part time employee murdered near the gate to her garden. Josie also worked for Ellie ex-husband Harris, at his restaurant and was also dating him. Based on information from his good friend Harris, Detective Max Lang feels sure that Ellie, out of jealousy, murdered Josie. Fortunately, his partner, Lupe Garcia isn't so sure and is willing to keep an open mind.
Ellie begins to gather more information about Josie past, hoping that some bit of information will point her in the direction of the real murderer.
The author provides the reader with an interesting cast of characters, that most would like to call their friends. Ellie knows that she needs someone to help and select the handsome, Ritter Nelson, brother of the owner of Terra Green Nursery, Thea Nelson. Maybe Ellie's high school crush on Ritter can be rekindled. The author also nicely includes interesting facts about the plants that are grown in Ellie's garden.
Recipes and aromatherapy tips and blends are also included
Will be watching for the next story from Poppyville, CA.
January 22, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Elliana Allbright has a fantastic place in Poppyville, California. At the front of her lot is Scents & Nonsense, her store, where she sells items scented from the flowers in her very own garden. The Enchanted Garden fills the side and back yards right up to the front of her tiny house. I can picture it so clearly in my mind with her bird bath and other whimsical touches surrounded by flowers that bloom all year. Even a few extra special varieties.
Ellie has a gift of matching the right scent to each person for any occasion and her Gamma’s journal is the guidebook to everything growing in the garden. Everything is coming up roses until her friend and employee, Josie Overland, is pushing up daisies, dead in the garden. Not so enchanting.
The was a fun read. Because of the location of the body, Elliana is the prime suspect. One of the officers on the case is best friends with her ex so she knows she isn’t going to get much help there but his partner, Detective Lupe Garcia, has a more open mind and actually investigates. I liked that Ellie didn’t just jump into the investigation. She stayed in touch with Garcia and they shared infomation. We meet several unique characters throughout the book. Friends from her high school days, friends that Ellie made before her divorce and new friends since opening her store. Ellie shop also has a resident feline and she has a Welsh Corgi named Dash too.
The book started a little slow for me but soon I was fully engaged and stayed up until early in the morning to finish. The mystery has its share of plot twists to keep readers guessing and I was surprised to learn I had picked the right culprit from the bunch.
I loved the aromatherapy theme and was thrilled to see the blends at the end of the story.
Bailey Cattrell has planted all the seeds to get this series off to a blooming start.
Elliana Allbright has a fantastic place in Poppyville, California. At the front of her lot is Scents & Nonsense, her store, where she sells items scented from the flowers in her very own garden. The Enchanted Garden fills the side and back yards right up to the front of her tiny house. I can picture it so clearly in my mind with her bird bath and other whimsical touches surrounded by flowers that bloom all year. Even a few extra special varieties.
Ellie has a gift of matching the right scent to each person for any occasion and her Gamma’s journal is the guidebook to everything growing in the garden. Everything is coming up roses until her friend and employee, Josie Overland, is pushing up daisies, dead in the garden. Not so enchanting.
The was a fun read. Because of the location of the body, Elliana is the prime suspect. One of the officers on the case is best friends with her ex so she knows she isn’t going to get much help there but his partner, Detective Lupe Garcia, has a more open mind and actually investigates. I liked that Ellie didn’t just jump into the investigation. She stayed in touch with Garcia and they shared infomation. We meet several unique characters throughout the book. Friends from her high school days, friends that Ellie made before her divorce and new friends since opening her store. Ellie shop also has a resident feline and she has a Welsh Corgi named Dash too.
The book started a little slow for me but soon I was fully engaged and stayed up until early in the morning to finish. The mystery has its share of plot twists to keep readers guessing and I was surprised to learn I had picked the right culprit from the bunch.
I loved the aromatherapy theme and was thrilled to see the blends at the end of the story.
Bailey Cattrell has planted all the seeds to get this series off to a blooming start.
October 21, 2020
Interesting cozy. Ellie's helper/assistant at scents and nonsense is found murdered and the detective puts the blame on Ellie. I wanted Ellie to be a bit more confident when she was dealing with her ex-husband or his detective friend. Both off them were such jerks. Also, not to mention that detective lang was so bad at his job, I want him fired 😁 Astrid was really cool, and such a good friend, helping and standing up for her friend. The romance was good and it didn't overshadow the mystery. Overall, the mystery kept me guessing and also the mystery of the new plant growing in Ellie's garden. The pets Dash and Nabby were so adorable. I wish I could visit the enchanted garden. And I have to give praise to the cover because it is so cute.
April 8, 2019
The sweet, slightly astringent aroma of Lavandula stoechas teased my nose.
Elliana Allbright is an aromatherapist and gardener in small town Poppyville, California. She owns the Scents & Nonsense shop where she creates custom fragrances for clients. Her ex-husband owns a local restaurant that they ran together before the divorce. Her part time employee, Josie is currently dating the ex. Ellie stumbles across Josie's body in her enchanted garden early one morning and becomes the number one suspect in the murder.
I love, love, love the language of flowers! This is something that my grandmother taught to me when I was a child. I think that is why this book captured my attention and wouldn't let me go. I really like that Ellie's grandmother left a journal of the plants. I wish I had something like that. I really enjoyed that Ellie could "hear" the plants. It made her relationship to the garden much more special.
The characters are well thought out and portrayed in believable situations. I felt like I was a part of the inner circle. The mystery had enough twists and turns to keep it interesting.
I love the animals! I find corgis delightful anyway so Dash was an added bonus. Nabby the cat was written to perfection. Those of us owned by cats understand their behavior. Even Leonard the fish was a key part of the story.
I will be interested to see where the storyline goes with high school crush Ritter. Even though he is suppose to be in town temporarily, I foresee a lengthy stay.
The process of distilling essential oils from plants has piqued my interest enough to actually look into it. I use a lot of essential oils on a daily basis. It would be wonderful to make my own from local plants. You know, in my spare time.
The cover of this book is one of my favorites at the moment. I love daisies anyway so this just makes me smile. An excellent start to the series! I look forward to the next book.
4.5 stars
Elliana Allbright is an aromatherapist and gardener in small town Poppyville, California. She owns the Scents & Nonsense shop where she creates custom fragrances for clients. Her ex-husband owns a local restaurant that they ran together before the divorce. Her part time employee, Josie is currently dating the ex. Ellie stumbles across Josie's body in her enchanted garden early one morning and becomes the number one suspect in the murder.
I love, love, love the language of flowers! This is something that my grandmother taught to me when I was a child. I think that is why this book captured my attention and wouldn't let me go. I really like that Ellie's grandmother left a journal of the plants. I wish I had something like that. I really enjoyed that Ellie could "hear" the plants. It made her relationship to the garden much more special.
The characters are well thought out and portrayed in believable situations. I felt like I was a part of the inner circle. The mystery had enough twists and turns to keep it interesting.
I love the animals! I find corgis delightful anyway so Dash was an added bonus. Nabby the cat was written to perfection. Those of us owned by cats understand their behavior. Even Leonard the fish was a key part of the story.
I will be interested to see where the storyline goes with high school crush Ritter. Even though he is suppose to be in town temporarily, I foresee a lengthy stay.
The process of distilling essential oils from plants has piqued my interest enough to actually look into it. I use a lot of essential oils on a daily basis. It would be wonderful to make my own from local plants. You know, in my spare time.
The cover of this book is one of my favorites at the moment. I love daisies anyway so this just makes me smile. An excellent start to the series! I look forward to the next book.
4.5 stars
September 5, 2017
After her divorce, Ellie Allbright stayed in Poppyville and opened up Sense and Nonsense, a perfume store that has a great garden in the back. But when she finds out her part-time worker is dating her ex-husband, Ellie is not sure what to think. But when she finds Josie dead at the gate to the shop, Ellie becomes the prime suspect, especially when one of the cops is her ex-husband's best friend.
That means Ellie has to figure out whodunit before she finds herself behind bars, instead of playing in her garden.
I loved this book. Ellie is a fun character and I liked that she picked herself up after her divorce and started to do something she'd always wanted. Her shop sounds amazing and I wish I could find it and visit, with unlimited funds at hand.
The mystery in this kept me guessing. I have put this series at the top of my favorites list. I am looking forward to the second book in the series.
That means Ellie has to figure out whodunit before she finds herself behind bars, instead of playing in her garden.
I loved this book. Ellie is a fun character and I liked that she picked herself up after her divorce and started to do something she'd always wanted. Her shop sounds amazing and I wish I could find it and visit, with unlimited funds at hand.
The mystery in this kept me guessing. I have put this series at the top of my favorites list. I am looking forward to the second book in the series.
May 26, 2019
"Daisies For Innocence" is book one in the Enchanted Garden Mystery Series. Elliana Allbright lives in Poppyville California, running a perfume shop and look after a beautiful enchanted garden that people in busloads came and enjoy the garden. Elliana Allbright thought her life was perfect until a body of her ex-partner girlfriend Josie was found in her garden and she became the prime suspect. Elliana Allbright decided to investigate to clear her name. The readers of "Daisies For Innocence" will continue to follow Alliana Allbright to find the murder of Josie.
Daisies For Innocence was the first book I read of Bailey Cattrell and loved it. I like Bailey Cattrell portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other. I loved the cover of "Daisies For Innocence" it allowed me to immerse myself into the plot of this book. "Daisies For Innocence" is well written and researched by Bailey Cattrell. Bailey Cattrell describes beautiful her setting of "Daisies For Innocence".
The readers of Daisies For Innocence, learn about making perfumes. Also, the readers of Daisies For Innocence will start to understand the benefits of flowers and a lovely garden to ease the stress and anxiety in people.
I recommend this book.
Daisies For Innocence was the first book I read of Bailey Cattrell and loved it. I like Bailey Cattrell portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other. I loved the cover of "Daisies For Innocence" it allowed me to immerse myself into the plot of this book. "Daisies For Innocence" is well written and researched by Bailey Cattrell. Bailey Cattrell describes beautiful her setting of "Daisies For Innocence".
The readers of Daisies For Innocence, learn about making perfumes. Also, the readers of Daisies For Innocence will start to understand the benefits of flowers and a lovely garden to ease the stress and anxiety in people.
I recommend this book.
May 7, 2016
Ellie Allbright is the owner of Scents & Nonsense, an aromatherapy shop in the charming town of Poppyville, California. The botanical essences used in her fragrance blends come straight from her own enchanted garden next to her shop. Having recently divorced, Ellie is happy moving on with her life and running her business, until her part-time employee is found murdered outside her store.
It took a while for the mystery to start moving along, but it was hard to figure out once it did. Ellie is dealing with a good cop/bad cop situation with the police investigation -- bad cop sees her as the prime suspect. To save herself, Ellie does her own investigation into the background of the victim, and she's surprised to find several possible culprits.
I enjoyed the aromatherapy theme in this book, especially since Ellie has a supernatural gift in knowing just the right scent to give her customers. Her special blends come in handy with the murder investigation too. This was a light and fun cozy, and a great start to a new series.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
It took a while for the mystery to start moving along, but it was hard to figure out once it did. Ellie is dealing with a good cop/bad cop situation with the police investigation -- bad cop sees her as the prime suspect. To save herself, Ellie does her own investigation into the background of the victim, and she's surprised to find several possible culprits.
I enjoyed the aromatherapy theme in this book, especially since Ellie has a supernatural gift in knowing just the right scent to give her customers. Her special blends come in handy with the murder investigation too. This was a light and fun cozy, and a great start to a new series.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2017
I don't know anything about aromatherapy and what Ellie specializes in but it was kind of fascinating reading about what essential oils can do for a person. I thought this was a really interesting murder, loved the fact that Ellie is reconnecting with a guy from her past. I never guessed the killer at all until it was obvious. Dash the Corgi is so adorable, I really think he adds to the story but then I love animals in the story that have more of a place than just a cute decoration. I'm reading the next one right now for a book club and hoping I get done because the discussion is tomorrow 5/30.
January 16, 2016
Fun book, I really liked it. Great characters, and a store I would love to shop in! I look forward to the next in the series.
April 9, 2025
3⭐️ My first cosy mystery book read. The story is easy to follow. A good break between heavier books if you want to read something more lightweighted!
Not my favorite genre so far, but will give it for sure a chance again in the future!
Not my favorite genre so far, but will give it for sure a chance again in the future!
March 14, 2024
Well no wonder everyone has been urging me to start this series!!! I absolutely loved it. It’s considered a paranormal cozy, but that part was very light for people who aren’t too found of that sub-genre. Bailey owns a shop called Scents & Nonsense in the quaint little town of Poppyville, CA. She specializes in handmade soaps, custom perfumes and other natural goodies. She has the most amazing garden where her grandma (and it sounds like several female relatives) learned the art of distilling their own essential oils from various plants. I found this super intriguing because I have been an avid essential oil user myself for the past 6 yrs!! The company I’m affiliated with has shared so many fascinating videos of how generations of farmers go through the process of getting these delicate oils that we buy and supply. To see that turn up in my favorite genre was an extra bonus. I also love how the language of flowers was woven throughout the story. Another topic I’m wildly curious and love to read about. The author used it perfectly to capture the emotions and help tell the story.
The characters were great. I can’t wait to learn more about Ellie and her enchanting gift. She describes herself as having powers of scent and empathy to help her customers select just the right gift. Aromatherapy is a powerful tool!! There’s a moment where she has a flashback to overhearing between her grandma and mom that will definitely lead into something more concerning her powers. Astrid was a fun side kick and I enjoyed seeing Ellie win over a new friend in detective Lupe. I like how they slowly started to trust one another. Harris will be a pain if her keeps appearing as the annoying ex husband, but Ritter definitely overshadows his presence. There’s no way that grant money is going to come in and have him leaving town anytime soon ... I hope!! Trust the lavender.
The mystery was great and kept me jumping from suspect to suspect for quite some time. There were enough new characters and twist to stump me until close to the end.
Ironically, Ellie lives on Corona street. During this time of a global pandemic, I cringed every-time I read the word.
Favorite quote, “Never apologize for what you’re passionate about.” - Ritter
Looking forward to continuing this series. The covers are extra cute and equally charming.
The characters were great. I can’t wait to learn more about Ellie and her enchanting gift. She describes herself as having powers of scent and empathy to help her customers select just the right gift. Aromatherapy is a powerful tool!! There’s a moment where she has a flashback to overhearing between her grandma and mom that will definitely lead into something more concerning her powers. Astrid was a fun side kick and I enjoyed seeing Ellie win over a new friend in detective Lupe. I like how they slowly started to trust one another. Harris will be a pain if her keeps appearing as the annoying ex husband, but Ritter definitely overshadows his presence. There’s no way that grant money is going to come in and have him leaving town anytime soon ... I hope!! Trust the lavender.
The mystery was great and kept me jumping from suspect to suspect for quite some time. There were enough new characters and twist to stump me until close to the end.
Ironically, Ellie lives on Corona street. During this time of a global pandemic, I cringed every-time I read the word.
Favorite quote, “Never apologize for what you’re passionate about.” - Ritter
Looking forward to continuing this series. The covers are extra cute and equally charming.
October 17, 2018
I’m going to have to trust the fact that this is a paranormal based cozy. Maybe because I’m so used to reading paranormal books where there are ghosts, spirits or even vampires. I’m going to have to get used to words like enchanted when it comes to a paranormal. Having said all of that, I really liked this book and am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Ellie Allbright owns Scents & Nonsense and the garden behind her perfume shop called the Enchanted Garden. Both are in the fictional town of Poppyville, California. All is well until one day her former employee Josie is found dead at the entrance of the garden from the boardwalk that runs through town. With a death on the property, eyes are on Ellie as the murder suspect because, as we find out from the night before when Ellie finds out as well, Josie is dating Ellie’s ex-husband Harris who owns a restaurant in town where Ellie used to work until her divorce and Josie used to bartend. Right?!
From there we are introduced to the town and the cast of characters that are in and out of Ellie’s life. Her ex-husband Harris is a dork in the typical ex-husband way. There are also two friends involved, one is the “partner in crime” Astrid, and the other is a friend, Thea, that has a cute brother Ritter who is shaping up to be a love interest for Ellie. Oh, but Ritter is only in town for a month because he is waiting for grant money to come in to fund his next expedition to where ever. Yeah, I don’t see that happening. Or if it does, his funding is for something only an hour away from Poppyville, hence Ritter and Ellie can still play in her enchanted garden.
Based on my interest in the characters, I am going to want to continue with this series to see what happens with everyone. The mystery of who killed Josie had me guessing up until the end when the killer was revealed.
I’m going to have to put the next two books towards the top of my TBR pile.
Ellie Allbright owns Scents & Nonsense and the garden behind her perfume shop called the Enchanted Garden. Both are in the fictional town of Poppyville, California. All is well until one day her former employee Josie is found dead at the entrance of the garden from the boardwalk that runs through town. With a death on the property, eyes are on Ellie as the murder suspect because, as we find out from the night before when Ellie finds out as well, Josie is dating Ellie’s ex-husband Harris who owns a restaurant in town where Ellie used to work until her divorce and Josie used to bartend. Right?!
From there we are introduced to the town and the cast of characters that are in and out of Ellie’s life. Her ex-husband Harris is a dork in the typical ex-husband way. There are also two friends involved, one is the “partner in crime” Astrid, and the other is a friend, Thea, that has a cute brother Ritter who is shaping up to be a love interest for Ellie. Oh, but Ritter is only in town for a month because he is waiting for grant money to come in to fund his next expedition to where ever. Yeah, I don’t see that happening. Or if it does, his funding is for something only an hour away from Poppyville, hence Ritter and Ellie can still play in her enchanted garden.
Based on my interest in the characters, I am going to want to continue with this series to see what happens with everyone. The mystery of who killed Josie had me guessing up until the end when the killer was revealed.
I’m going to have to put the next two books towards the top of my TBR pile.
January 26, 2016
I am glad that I read this first book in a new series. I found it refreshing and unusual and I must say the characters immediately drew me in and didn't let me go until the end. I loved the idea of an Enchanted Garden and was honestly lusting after Ellie shop Scents & Nonsense, finding the facts about aromatherapy exceedingly interesting.
I found Ellie's friend Astrid wonderful and enjoyed reading how they tried to figure out "who did it". They each have their own talents and these talents seem to compliment the talents of the other making the scenes with both of them very harmonious. I did not figure out who did it, but realize that I should have.
I cannot wait to read the second installment. I am most especially interested in find out more about Ellie's love interest, Ritter, the police Detective Garcia ---and the Enchanted Garden, of course!
Very much recommended.
I found Ellie's friend Astrid wonderful and enjoyed reading how they tried to figure out "who did it". They each have their own talents and these talents seem to compliment the talents of the other making the scenes with both of them very harmonious. I did not figure out who did it, but realize that I should have.
I cannot wait to read the second installment. I am most especially interested in find out more about Ellie's love interest, Ritter, the police Detective Garcia ---and the Enchanted Garden, of course!
Very much recommended.
October 27, 2019
This seems more formulaic, and honestly, just a repeat of The Magical Bakery series, but not as well done. Magic powers the protagonist doesn't even know they have, much less understand? Check. A circle of strong, independent women to help said protagonist? Check. Bad ex? Check. New, hot love interest? Check. Magical pets? Check. Even magic insects? Yep. The characters are not as sympathetic, or original, and sometimes not believable. The ex-husband? Really?
November 21, 2022
Okay, I really liked this one. This is one of those books, I didn't know I was looking for, and now I need more of them. Like immediately.
Daisies for Innocence follows an aromatherapist as she navigates her flourishing (pun intended) business and life in a small town post-divorce. Which all gets more complicated when her employee and ex-husband's girlfriend ends up dead on her doorstep.
This book has HUGE cozy mystery vibes, with a mystical feel added thanks to Ellie's heightened powers of scent & emotion. The olfactory sensation of this book made this such a unique read, and Ellie was an easy character to connect with. Add to that a sweet, budding romance, and this one totally hits the spot.
If you're looking for a fun, sweet, quick read for the holidays, Definitely check this one out. The audiobook was wonderfully narrated as well, and I can't wait to listen to the sequels!
Daisies for Innocence follows an aromatherapist as she navigates her flourishing (pun intended) business and life in a small town post-divorce. Which all gets more complicated when her employee and ex-husband's girlfriend ends up dead on her doorstep.
This book has HUGE cozy mystery vibes, with a mystical feel added thanks to Ellie's heightened powers of scent & emotion. The olfactory sensation of this book made this such a unique read, and Ellie was an easy character to connect with. Add to that a sweet, budding romance, and this one totally hits the spot.
If you're looking for a fun, sweet, quick read for the holidays, Definitely check this one out. The audiobook was wonderfully narrated as well, and I can't wait to listen to the sequels!
July 20, 2019
I read this entire book in the waiting room for a car mechanic so I genuinely don’t know how I really feel about it. I think it was pretty good and largely much less annoying than the types of these mysteries that I’ve read before. I might come back to update this review later since my brain is so mushy (given that I am writing this review from the waiting room I am still in!).
February 3, 2024
A winner for sure
I really liked this book. The story is really interesting and I loved Ellie from the beginning.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
I really liked this book. The story is really interesting and I loved Ellie from the beginning.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
June 2, 2017
AudioBook Review:
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 2 Story 5
Poppyville California is where Elliana has her little shop – a custom perfumery where the scents come from the little enchanted garden that surrounds her shop, separating it from the small cottage where she lives. Born with a green thumb and more, Elliana has the ability to know just what essential oil will provide each customer with what they need, and the aromatherapy elements and information are free-flowing and present throughout the story. The descriptions of the shop combined with the presence and characterization of Elliana are evocative and instantly allow imagination to take hold, presenting a clear visual of the shop, the place and even the scents presented there. But, all is not soothing and quietly presented with a cup of tea: her assistant Josie is found dead in the garden, before Elliana was able to warn her about the new boyfriend. Who just happens to be Elllie’s ex-husband. Oh, and the investigator in charge of the case is her ex’s best friend and believes her guilty.
As a start to a new series, the mystery was clever and the twists plenty. The setting and Ellie’s ability to both diagnose and use essential oils and florals to effect mood and change are wonderful, and there is plenty of information about aromatherapy and essential oils shared, some of which can distract from the mystery and tension, but interesting nonetheless. With some adorable moments, solid interactions and the clever twists to the end – this story is a great start for a new series and I’m curious to see more of Ellie and how she changes, adapts and grows through each book.
Narration for this audiobook was provided by Vanessa Daniels, and I have to say that I was disappointed in her presentation. From odd pauses contrasting with rushed passages, mispronunciations, and a general “let’s get through this” attitude that sprang forward with a rushed delivery, I wasn’t needing to track back to catch missed words, but moments were very certainly slighted of their due in her performance. As this was my first encounter with this narrator, and I have other audiobooks she has narrated to review, I will hope that her performance skills improve with her understanding that nuance is needed to present moments with appropriate pauses and emotive injections that allow the story to unfold gradually, not just get to the end.
In short, I’ve purchased the written copy of this book and the next in the series to read in my own time, hoping that the promise I found in the writing is present. With lots of great aromatherapy information and recipes, I’m certain that fans of cozies with a twist will love the read.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 2 Story 5
Poppyville California is where Elliana has her little shop – a custom perfumery where the scents come from the little enchanted garden that surrounds her shop, separating it from the small cottage where she lives. Born with a green thumb and more, Elliana has the ability to know just what essential oil will provide each customer with what they need, and the aromatherapy elements and information are free-flowing and present throughout the story. The descriptions of the shop combined with the presence and characterization of Elliana are evocative and instantly allow imagination to take hold, presenting a clear visual of the shop, the place and even the scents presented there. But, all is not soothing and quietly presented with a cup of tea: her assistant Josie is found dead in the garden, before Elliana was able to warn her about the new boyfriend. Who just happens to be Elllie’s ex-husband. Oh, and the investigator in charge of the case is her ex’s best friend and believes her guilty.
As a start to a new series, the mystery was clever and the twists plenty. The setting and Ellie’s ability to both diagnose and use essential oils and florals to effect mood and change are wonderful, and there is plenty of information about aromatherapy and essential oils shared, some of which can distract from the mystery and tension, but interesting nonetheless. With some adorable moments, solid interactions and the clever twists to the end – this story is a great start for a new series and I’m curious to see more of Ellie and how she changes, adapts and grows through each book.
Narration for this audiobook was provided by Vanessa Daniels, and I have to say that I was disappointed in her presentation. From odd pauses contrasting with rushed passages, mispronunciations, and a general “let’s get through this” attitude that sprang forward with a rushed delivery, I wasn’t needing to track back to catch missed words, but moments were very certainly slighted of their due in her performance. As this was my first encounter with this narrator, and I have other audiobooks she has narrated to review, I will hope that her performance skills improve with her understanding that nuance is needed to present moments with appropriate pauses and emotive injections that allow the story to unfold gradually, not just get to the end.
In short, I’ve purchased the written copy of this book and the next in the series to read in my own time, hoping that the promise I found in the writing is present. With lots of great aromatherapy information and recipes, I’m certain that fans of cozies with a twist will love the read.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
April 8, 2016
4-1/2 Star Review! Elliana 'Ellie' Allbright owns Scents & Nonsense where she makes custom perfumes and aromatherapy remedies for her customers. Her Grandmother taught her much of what she knows, plus Ellie's sixth sense helps her match people with the perfect blend of oils for their problems. In this whimsical debut, a body is found near the gate of Ellie's Enchanted Garden; the yard behind her shop where she grows the amazing flowers she uses to distill the essential oils for her shop. There's always something magical happening in the garden! The story is set in Poppyville, California, with a cast of solid characters you'll enjoy getting to know, along with Ellie's adorable Welsh Corgi, Dash, and Russian Blue cat, Nabby. The killer reveal was a surprise to me, and I loved the ending.
October 12, 2016
As I mentioned to someone recently, this cozy has three things I enjoy very much in life: cats, dogs and gardens. The central character owns a shop in a small California tourist town that specializes in her own handmade perfumes, bath accessories, candles, etc. She has an 'enchanted' garden in the back of her place where she grows countless flowers and herbs. She has a Welsh Corgi, Dash, and a Russian Blue cat, Nabokov. This is well written and has a murder to solve, but I must admit I enjoyed reading about her garden and how she mixed scents and oils for her products the most. This is the first book in what I hope turns out to be a long-lived series. I want to read more about her garden, animals and life in this town.
June 10, 2018
Since the author's other series (under the pseudonym Bailey Cates) is one of my faves, I have been looking forward to reading this book, and I was not at all disappointed. Ellie is a wonderful MC and I adored her from the beginning. The other characters in the book are equally engaging, and I know that I am going to enjoy watching them materialize as they grow in each installment. The mystery was engaging, and although I felt that the magical story in the enchanted garden was the focal point to the book, I still stayed interested in the solving of the crime. I look forward to the next episodes in this series a great deal and highly recommend this one.
September 25, 2019
Daisies For Innocence, the first book in the Enchanted Garden Mystery series, by Bailey Cattrell was an entertaining introduction to Poppyville, California resident Elliana "Ellie" Allbright, Dash - her Welsh Corgi, and her aromatherapy & perfume shop - Scents and Nonsense. Filled with likeable and realistic characters, I look forward to reading book 2 of the Enchanted Garden Mystery series. I enjoyed learning about the language of flowers and picturing Ellie's garden set behind her shop (and her "tiny" home, too).
January 14, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There was enough mystery, humor, and romance to make me happy. I love the corgi, Dash. I am definitely going to read the next book in the series when it comes out. I like the idea of plants and aromatherapy as a background for a mystery. I also want to make the cookies from the recipe at the end of the book... Astrid's Chewy Double Chocolate Chunk Hazelnut Cookies. They sound delicious :-)
May 25, 2021
What I really enjoyed most about this new series is the info about aromatherapy and the language of flowers. I love hearing the description of Ellie’s Enchanted Garden. It sounds so whimsical and magical as does Ellie. She has the gift of knowing what scents people need to help with their problems.
Yes, there is a murder mystery which Ellie with the help of her friends is able to solve.
I’m enjoying getting to know these characters and look forward to seeing how they develop.
Yes, there is a murder mystery which Ellie with the help of her friends is able to solve.
I’m enjoying getting to know these characters and look forward to seeing how they develop.
January 3, 2022
Great beginning of a series! The mystery was good and the side characters were wonderful. The ex I did want to punch in the face, but I feel that is normal in most cozies. Secretly I wish it was the ex found dead and not the associate. I loved the little mystical aspect of this book, I like when cozies add that little sparkle to the books, this will be a series I will continue it has such a wonderful potential of being one of my favorites.
March 16, 2023
This felt like a warm, cozy hug from someone you've longed to see. It brings you back to happier times, so obviously I adored it.
Who knew aromatherapy and crime investigation would mix in so well?
Flower language, cookies, a corgi, it just has everything! I saw this book being recommended by several cozy mysteries booktubers and they were right on the money, this was a delight to read. I look forward to seeing what else does Ellie have in store.
Who knew aromatherapy and crime investigation would mix in so well?
Flower language, cookies, a corgi, it just has everything! I saw this book being recommended by several cozy mysteries booktubers and they were right on the money, this was a delight to read. I look forward to seeing what else does Ellie have in store.
July 28, 2022
I have so many ideas for what to bake thanks to Astrid!
I love the baking and aromatherapy and just how passionate everyone in the Greenstockings group. I wish that group was a real thing. Women supporting women ... yessss!!!
I want Dash as a dog.
SORT OF A SPOILER -
Part of me wanted Harris to be the killer just because he was icky and I didn’t want him near Ellie.
I love the baking and aromatherapy and just how passionate everyone in the Greenstockings group. I wish that group was a real thing. Women supporting women ... yessss!!!
I want Dash as a dog.
SORT OF A SPOILER -
Part of me wanted Harris to be the killer just because he was icky and I didn’t want him near Ellie.
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