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A Magic Garden Mystery #1
Flowers and Foul Play
Fiona Knox lost her fianc' and her flower shop-but when she flies to Scotland to inherit her godfather's cottage and possibly magical walled garden, she may lose her life as well when she's swept into a murder investigation.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2018
282 people are currently reading
2296 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Flower
61 books2,944 followersAmanda Flower is a USA Today bestselling and Agatha Award-winning author of over thirty-five mystery novels. Her novels have received starred reviews from Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, and Romantic Times, and she had been featured in USA Today, First for Women, and Woman’s World. She currently writes for Penguin-Random House (Berkley), Kensington, Hallmark Publishing, Crooked Lane Books, and Sourcebooks. In addition to being a writer, she was a librarian for fifteen years. Today, Flower and her husband own a farm and recording studio, and they live in Northeast Ohio with their two adorable cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 398 reviews
April 23, 2018
Flowers and Foul Play by Amanda Flower is the first book in the new cozy A Magic Garden Mystery series. As the series title suggests there is a touch of magic involved in the story this time giving this cozy mystery series a touch of fantasy.
Fiona Knox got a call from a lawyer in Scotland informing her that her godfather had passed and she would be inheriting his estate. At the time Fiona wasn’t at a place in her life to take off to another country but within days of receiving the call her fiancé ran off with the cake decorator and her flower shop went out of business so what better to do than hop on the next flight to Scotland.
After Fiona arrives in Scotland she meets with her godfather’s elderly caretaker Hamish MacGregor to inspect the property but when checking out her godfather’s magical garden the two stumble upon the dead body of the lawyer of the estate. Unfortunately when the police become involved they seem to aim their investigation straight at Hamish so Fiona feels she needs to find more suspects to divert their suspicions.
Amanda Flower has written numerous books in her career as an author but I’ve only been able to pick up a couple of different series now myself and what I’ve found that stands out the most to me is her creative settings. Flowers and Foul Play is no different with taking readers over to Scotland and then throwing in the touch of magic was an added bonus giving another interesting layer to the setting. This opening mystery was also another solid addition to the author’s work, there’s interesting characters to go along with the wonderful setting and I’ll certainly be interested to see where the story goes from here.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Fiona Knox got a call from a lawyer in Scotland informing her that her godfather had passed and she would be inheriting his estate. At the time Fiona wasn’t at a place in her life to take off to another country but within days of receiving the call her fiancé ran off with the cake decorator and her flower shop went out of business so what better to do than hop on the next flight to Scotland.
After Fiona arrives in Scotland she meets with her godfather’s elderly caretaker Hamish MacGregor to inspect the property but when checking out her godfather’s magical garden the two stumble upon the dead body of the lawyer of the estate. Unfortunately when the police become involved they seem to aim their investigation straight at Hamish so Fiona feels she needs to find more suspects to divert their suspicions.
Amanda Flower has written numerous books in her career as an author but I’ve only been able to pick up a couple of different series now myself and what I’ve found that stands out the most to me is her creative settings. Flowers and Foul Play is no different with taking readers over to Scotland and then throwing in the touch of magic was an added bonus giving another interesting layer to the setting. This opening mystery was also another solid addition to the author’s work, there’s interesting characters to go along with the wonderful setting and I’ll certainly be interested to see where the story goes from here.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 30, 2018
Fiona Knox has had a lot of sadness in her life recently. Her fiance dumped her. She was forced to close her florist business. And her much loved Uncle Ian has died. As she tries to pick up the broken pieces of her life, she learns that Uncle Ian left her his home, Duncreigan, in Scotland. Remembering wonderful visits with him there over the years, she travels to Scotland with a heavy heart, wondering if she will ever be happy again. She's greeted by the caretaker, Hamish, who tells her a story about the cottage and its magical garden. Hamish says that the garden has been dying ever since Ian MacCallister was killed in Afghanistan, but it will come back to life because she has come to Scotland to tend to it. There's a bit more going on in the garden than magic though. Hamish and Fiona find a dead man in the garden. Turns out several people in the nearby village of Bellewick might have wanted local attorney Alaistair Croft dead. But which one killed him? And how does the death tie in with Duncreigan cottage and the magic garden?
I absolutely loved this book! The story is a nice mix of magic and mystery. Fiona is a likable main character. Her life has pretty much imploded, and just when it seems things might be getting better, she finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery. But she is too intelligent and resilient to give up. She decides to investigate instead! :) I love Hamish and his pet squirrel Duncan. Quirky, magical characters to go with the magical garden. The mystery kept my attention from beginning to end. The story moved at a nice pace and there were plenty of motives and suspects. All in all, a totally enjoyable, magical and entertaining cozy mystery. Great start to a new series!
Amanda Flower's books never fail to entertain me. She writes several cozy series including the Magical Bookshop and the Living History Museum series.
**I voluntarily read an advance readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
I absolutely loved this book! The story is a nice mix of magic and mystery. Fiona is a likable main character. Her life has pretty much imploded, and just when it seems things might be getting better, she finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery. But she is too intelligent and resilient to give up. She decides to investigate instead! :) I love Hamish and his pet squirrel Duncan. Quirky, magical characters to go with the magical garden. The mystery kept my attention from beginning to end. The story moved at a nice pace and there were plenty of motives and suspects. All in all, a totally enjoyable, magical and entertaining cozy mystery. Great start to a new series!
Amanda Flower's books never fail to entertain me. She writes several cozy series including the Magical Bookshop and the Living History Museum series.
**I voluntarily read an advance readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
January 22, 2021
First in the series Flowers and Foul Play is a wonderful read.
The characters are very likable and by the end I feel romance in the air. There's a light magic to the story (no talking animals) just perfect! The story takes place in Scotland picturesque town with a coast to the North Sea, cobblestone street and village shops. I can almost smell the fresh air! Fiona inherited the magical garden from her godfather and now she's the new Garden Keeper. With a body found inside the gated garden, she helps a tall and handsome Chief Inspector Craig find the killer.
The characters are very likable and by the end I feel romance in the air. There's a light magic to the story (no talking animals) just perfect! The story takes place in Scotland picturesque town with a coast to the North Sea, cobblestone street and village shops. I can almost smell the fresh air! Fiona inherited the magical garden from her godfather and now she's the new Garden Keeper. With a body found inside the gated garden, she helps a tall and handsome Chief Inspector Craig find the killer.
May 12, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
A cozy cottage with a magical garden and a couple of very interesting furry creatures is what Fiona Fox finds when she arrives in Scotland. Oh, she also finds a dead body in the garden. Her godfather, Ian MacCallister, the man that shared her love of flowers has died and he has bequeathed the place to her. The garden has not flourished since Ian’s was killed in Afghanistan, but his caretaker Hamish MacGregor assures her that now that she has arrived the garden will start to bloom again. But first, she needs to deal with the body. He is identified as Alastair Croft, Ian’s lawyer and while Chief Inspector Neil Craig has taken her passport, he believes Hamish is the killer. Fiona quickly decides to get to know her neighbors and try to find the handsome detective some additional, more viable suspects. It wasn’t hard, most of the town couldn’t stand the man.
There are so many things I loved about this story.
Fiona Knox is nursing a broken heart. Her fiance left her for their cake decorator, a chain florist drove her little flower shop out of business, and she is mourning the death of a very important man in her life, her godfather. A man she shared her love of flowers with, a man she and her family had visited several times over the years. After all that she is using her trip to Scotland to heal her heart and make a new plan for her life. Her inner strength shines through as she sets out to find the killer. She travels to the nearby village to meet and question everyone she can. She is an intelligent woman determined to get the answers she needs.
We also meet Hamish MacGregor. An elderly man, caretaker of Ian’s property. A position he takes very seriously. He also has a pet squirrel named Duncan, that rides around on his shoulder and comes indoors, and doesn’t like cats at all, especially Ivanhoe, a cat Fiona has brought home.
Fiona finds herself being questioned by Chief Inspector Neil Craig within minutes of her arrival. The man is easy on the eyes and the two learn to work together. He sees instantly that Fiona is not a woman that will give up her own investigation so he decides that to keep her safe he needs to remain close.
The Scotland setting, the nearby sea, and the magical garden drew me into this enchanting story. Only a few seeds have been sown about this garden that Fiona is now the keeper of. I am excited to learn more right along with Fiona.
The story has many turns as the mystery of Alastair Croft and his death is solved. The author sets a nice pace as the story evolves. I really enjoyed the way the whole village was involved. It gives readers the chance to know a lot of characters without feeling overwhelmed. They are distinct individuals with their own stories. Some become viable suspects and some will become great friends for Fiona. Like all great cozies – be ready for that final outstanding twist. . . I LOVED IT!
Amanda Flower is an outstanding storyteller. She mixes paranormal and cozy like a master. The characters she creates jump off the pages. The setting is idyllic and the mystery is marvelous. She has written a story that was virtually impossible for me to put down.
I am thrilled about this series!! I can’t wait for the next book!! Death and Daisies will be released November 13.
A cozy cottage with a magical garden and a couple of very interesting furry creatures is what Fiona Fox finds when she arrives in Scotland. Oh, she also finds a dead body in the garden. Her godfather, Ian MacCallister, the man that shared her love of flowers has died and he has bequeathed the place to her. The garden has not flourished since Ian’s was killed in Afghanistan, but his caretaker Hamish MacGregor assures her that now that she has arrived the garden will start to bloom again. But first, she needs to deal with the body. He is identified as Alastair Croft, Ian’s lawyer and while Chief Inspector Neil Craig has taken her passport, he believes Hamish is the killer. Fiona quickly decides to get to know her neighbors and try to find the handsome detective some additional, more viable suspects. It wasn’t hard, most of the town couldn’t stand the man.
There are so many things I loved about this story.
Fiona Knox is nursing a broken heart. Her fiance left her for their cake decorator, a chain florist drove her little flower shop out of business, and she is mourning the death of a very important man in her life, her godfather. A man she shared her love of flowers with, a man she and her family had visited several times over the years. After all that she is using her trip to Scotland to heal her heart and make a new plan for her life. Her inner strength shines through as she sets out to find the killer. She travels to the nearby village to meet and question everyone she can. She is an intelligent woman determined to get the answers she needs.
We also meet Hamish MacGregor. An elderly man, caretaker of Ian’s property. A position he takes very seriously. He also has a pet squirrel named Duncan, that rides around on his shoulder and comes indoors, and doesn’t like cats at all, especially Ivanhoe, a cat Fiona has brought home.
Fiona finds herself being questioned by Chief Inspector Neil Craig within minutes of her arrival. The man is easy on the eyes and the two learn to work together. He sees instantly that Fiona is not a woman that will give up her own investigation so he decides that to keep her safe he needs to remain close.
The Scotland setting, the nearby sea, and the magical garden drew me into this enchanting story. Only a few seeds have been sown about this garden that Fiona is now the keeper of. I am excited to learn more right along with Fiona.
The story has many turns as the mystery of Alastair Croft and his death is solved. The author sets a nice pace as the story evolves. I really enjoyed the way the whole village was involved. It gives readers the chance to know a lot of characters without feeling overwhelmed. They are distinct individuals with their own stories. Some become viable suspects and some will become great friends for Fiona. Like all great cozies – be ready for that final outstanding twist. . . I LOVED IT!
Amanda Flower is an outstanding storyteller. She mixes paranormal and cozy like a master. The characters she creates jump off the pages. The setting is idyllic and the mystery is marvelous. She has written a story that was virtually impossible for me to put down.
I am thrilled about this series!! I can’t wait for the next book!! Death and Daisies will be released November 13.
June 25, 2022
I wasn’t sure whether I would enjoy this book or not. I’m not much for reading books about magic but the author is a favorite of mine so I decided to go ahead with it. As it turned out I did get drawn into the book and found it hard to put down. I reminded my self that the book is purely a work of fiction and not real so for the sake of enjoyment I allowed myself to get drawn into the story. The ending left me hanging somewhat as there were loose ends left unanswered in the epilogue. I thought about giving four stars but then wondered if perhaps the story would pick up in the next book from where it left off here in book one. I decided to give it the benefit of doubt with a five star rating. I haven’t read a book by this author yet that I haven’t enjoyed.
Fiona Knox is a single gal from Tennessee. She is bouncing back from a broken engagement and from having to close her flower shop due to a lack of business. Besides that, Fiona and her family find out that her Godfather,Ian MacCallister has died in the line of duty in Afghanistan. They learn this after the fact when Fiona gets notified by Alastair Croft, Ian’s Lawyer, that she has inherited her Godfather's cottage and garden in Scotland.
After traveling to Scotland and arriving at the cottage she finds that the garden has died but that isn’t all she finds in the garden. Alastair Croft is in there quite dead. This is not the kind of welcome to Scotland that Fiona expected. Seems she has walked into a hornet’s nest and now she must get to the bottom of who killed Ian’s Lawyer and why. The Handsome Scottish Chief Inspector Neil Craig thinks Ian’s old gardener, Hamlish MacGregor has a strong enough motive for killing Alastair but something doesn’t sit right with Fiona about the Chief Inspector’s choice of a prime suspect. As if finding a dead body in the garden wasn’t bad enough there’s something else going on in there. Things that can’t be easily explained. Things that Fiona wouldn’t believe unless she’d seen them happening with her own eyes.
Readers of Cozy Mystery and fans of Amanda Flower will enjoy this book. It is book one of A Magic Garden Mystery series.
Fiona Knox is a single gal from Tennessee. She is bouncing back from a broken engagement and from having to close her flower shop due to a lack of business. Besides that, Fiona and her family find out that her Godfather,Ian MacCallister has died in the line of duty in Afghanistan. They learn this after the fact when Fiona gets notified by Alastair Croft, Ian’s Lawyer, that she has inherited her Godfather's cottage and garden in Scotland.
After traveling to Scotland and arriving at the cottage she finds that the garden has died but that isn’t all she finds in the garden. Alastair Croft is in there quite dead. This is not the kind of welcome to Scotland that Fiona expected. Seems she has walked into a hornet’s nest and now she must get to the bottom of who killed Ian’s Lawyer and why. The Handsome Scottish Chief Inspector Neil Craig thinks Ian’s old gardener, Hamlish MacGregor has a strong enough motive for killing Alastair but something doesn’t sit right with Fiona about the Chief Inspector’s choice of a prime suspect. As if finding a dead body in the garden wasn’t bad enough there’s something else going on in there. Things that can’t be easily explained. Things that Fiona wouldn’t believe unless she’d seen them happening with her own eyes.
Readers of Cozy Mystery and fans of Amanda Flower will enjoy this book. It is book one of A Magic Garden Mystery series.
April 26, 2018
I’d been wishing for a cozy that would take me away to a whimsical, magical place for a few hours relaxation. “Flowers and Foul Play” is that creation. The story is a combination murder mystery and the mystery of how the mystical garden comes to life in protagonist Fiona Knox’s presence. Fiona’s godfather, Ian, has passed along his Scottish ancestors magic found in the garden behind the hobbit-like door. I found myself completely charmed by the animal characters who often appear in scenes. I loved the inclusion of pirate treasure nesting in the nearby sea—that part of history is always thrilling to me. I can hardly wait to learn more about the characters introduced in this debut story; notably Presha and Raj. I also sense we’ll learn much more about the secret gifts Fiona has inherited. I thoroughly enjoyed the paranormal plot twists!
I reviewed an advanced Readers digital copy from NetGalley and Crooked Lane.
I reviewed an advanced Readers digital copy from NetGalley and Crooked Lane.
May 3, 2018
THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS I HAVE RECENTLY READ! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. The first book of a new series. It combines a cozy paranormal mystery with an American heiress, a missing letter, a romance, a cold case, a Magic Garden, interaction among the animals, a minister, fire, political corruption that are set in Scotland. These factors are woven together to make a spellbinding tale.
Fiona Knox life has collapsed around her. She hears from a lawyer that she has inherited her God father's s property. She arrives in Scotland to learn her Godfather died his garden died. Now she has arrived in Scotland it is slowly returning to life. A letter to her containing information about the garden has been lost. On a visit to town looking for supplies and information turns out to be mysterious. There She meets Ivanhoe, a cat who adopts her and the interaction with Duncan adds humor. Looking for answers to the in answer questions bothering Fiona kept me turning the pages. I am looking forward to the next book
Disclosure: Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Fiona Knox life has collapsed around her. She hears from a lawyer that she has inherited her God father's s property. She arrives in Scotland to learn her Godfather died his garden died. Now she has arrived in Scotland it is slowly returning to life. A letter to her containing information about the garden has been lost. On a visit to town looking for supplies and information turns out to be mysterious. There She meets Ivanhoe, a cat who adopts her and the interaction with Duncan adds humor. Looking for answers to the in answer questions bothering Fiona kept me turning the pages. I am looking forward to the next book
Disclosure: Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
April 29, 2018
I read Amanda Flower's May release Flowers and Foul Play last week and I loved this new first in series! Set in Scotland and with a magical twist this is story that I found very easy to get into and a main character that was easy to like.
In the book Fiona's life has come to a cross roads and though she is reluctant to slam the door and move on, all signs point to her ever happiness being found in Scotland. Her Godfather has left her a rather muddled mystery and magical garden, ancient grounds keeper and a secret. This book features a small town in Scotland with a tea shop that I feel like I could move right into. Amanda Flowers has a fan in me with this new Magical Garden Mystery and series.
In the book Fiona's life has come to a cross roads and though she is reluctant to slam the door and move on, all signs point to her ever happiness being found in Scotland. Her Godfather has left her a rather muddled mystery and magical garden, ancient grounds keeper and a secret. This book features a small town in Scotland with a tea shop that I feel like I could move right into. Amanda Flowers has a fan in me with this new Magical Garden Mystery and series.
June 4, 2018
I absolutely loved this book! It has the elements that I enjoyed so much in the Magical Bookshop series but it was set in beautiful Scotland near the sea.
Fiona Knox's uncle and godfather Ian MacCallister had left her his cottage and grounds. After a disastrous folding of her flower shop in Nashville, TN and losing her fiance to their cake decorator, Fiona had nothing left to lose. She packed herself up and went to Scotland only to find her uncle's dead lawyer in the garden and the handsome chief inspector looking at the elderly caretaker as a person of interest. Fiona had to learn about the garden as well since a letter outlining everything from Ian was somehow lost in the mail or was living at her parents' house. Trying to get police attention away from Hamish, take care of the magic garden which thrived beautifully now that she was there and questioning possible suspects took most of her first few days in Scotland.
I had suspected the person behind it but definitely didn't know the motive behind it. The showdown was pretty exciting and the ending was very satisfying and sweet. I loved the last couple of sentences and had leaky eyes even though I had suspected that all along. I won't spoil it, you'll just have to read it and see! My favorite characters were Fiona of course, Hamish and Neil Craig, the chief inspector. Hamish had a few secrets but I also knew down deep he was a good man.
I'm hoping something definitely develops between Neil and Fiona. He really seemed to care about her as he gave her the usual warnings about investigating. I think he honestly was worried about her more than worried that she'd mess up his case. The character of the police chief was kind of a comic relief, at least to me. He was a volunteer and seemed so ridiculous I had to giggle at him once when he stormed into the pub saying if he'd been in charge of this murder, it would have been solved. I kind of pictured Constable George's character on the Murdoch Mysteries, only with a little more bravery to his voice lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book provided by Crooked Lane via NetGalley. I'm anxious to read the next book and am happy to have been approved by the publisher to read and review it as well.
Fiona Knox's uncle and godfather Ian MacCallister had left her his cottage and grounds. After a disastrous folding of her flower shop in Nashville, TN and losing her fiance to their cake decorator, Fiona had nothing left to lose. She packed herself up and went to Scotland only to find her uncle's dead lawyer in the garden and the handsome chief inspector looking at the elderly caretaker as a person of interest. Fiona had to learn about the garden as well since a letter outlining everything from Ian was somehow lost in the mail or was living at her parents' house. Trying to get police attention away from Hamish, take care of the magic garden which thrived beautifully now that she was there and questioning possible suspects took most of her first few days in Scotland.
I had suspected the person behind it but definitely didn't know the motive behind it. The showdown was pretty exciting and the ending was very satisfying and sweet. I loved the last couple of sentences and had leaky eyes even though I had suspected that all along. I won't spoil it, you'll just have to read it and see! My favorite characters were Fiona of course, Hamish and Neil Craig, the chief inspector. Hamish had a few secrets but I also knew down deep he was a good man.
I'm hoping something definitely develops between Neil and Fiona. He really seemed to care about her as he gave her the usual warnings about investigating. I think he honestly was worried about her more than worried that she'd mess up his case. The character of the police chief was kind of a comic relief, at least to me. He was a volunteer and seemed so ridiculous I had to giggle at him once when he stormed into the pub saying if he'd been in charge of this murder, it would have been solved. I kind of pictured Constable George's character on the Murdoch Mysteries, only with a little more bravery to his voice lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book provided by Crooked Lane via NetGalley. I'm anxious to read the next book and am happy to have been approved by the publisher to read and review it as well.
April 8, 2018
Flowers and Foul Play is the first in a new series, A Magic Garden Mystery, by Amanda Flower and takes place in Scotland. Fiona Knox leaves Nashville and goes to Scotland when she receives news that she has inherited her godfather's cottage, Duncraigan, near the village of Bellewick on the coast of Scotland near the North Sea. Fiona's dad is Scottish and her mom is American. They met when her mom was at St. Andrews for a summer study abroad. Her Uncle Ian MacCalister was her father's best friend and a career military man who never married. He died in Afghanistan in battle and left his place to Fiona. Fiona's life is in turmoil because her fiance' left her for the cake decorator for their wedding and her own failed florist shop closed. The trip to Scotland is a welcome reprieve from her life right now.
The caretaker for her godfather, Hamish MacGregor, meets her at the cottage and helps her get settled. But things get strange right away when they are in the walled garden on the property and find the body of her godfather's solicitor, Alastair Croft. After a call to the police, we meet Chief Inspector Neil Craig, a local boy who works with police in Aberdeen. Neil is a very tall and handsome young man who seems to suspect Hamish of the crime.
But there are many villagers who didn't like Alastair. The village of Bellewick is full of colorful locals who are diverse and a little leery of an American in their midst. Why would one of their own, a local war hero, leave his property to an American?
This is an entertaining mystery that will keep you turning the pages to figure out who is behind the murder. There is an uproar in the village over a land sale that Alastair was involved in. Maybe someone who was against the land sale killed him. There are other villagers that are suspicious seeming and undercurrents afoot. A very important part of the book with a mystical flair is the fact that the garden on the property is magical and needs to be cared for by a special keeper. Ian was one of a long line and now Fiona is the next one. When she arrived, the plants were dead but came to life soon after. I enjoyed the location and color of the Scottish people and look forward to reading more in the series.
I received a complimentary copy from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are mine only.
The caretaker for her godfather, Hamish MacGregor, meets her at the cottage and helps her get settled. But things get strange right away when they are in the walled garden on the property and find the body of her godfather's solicitor, Alastair Croft. After a call to the police, we meet Chief Inspector Neil Craig, a local boy who works with police in Aberdeen. Neil is a very tall and handsome young man who seems to suspect Hamish of the crime.
But there are many villagers who didn't like Alastair. The village of Bellewick is full of colorful locals who are diverse and a little leery of an American in their midst. Why would one of their own, a local war hero, leave his property to an American?
This is an entertaining mystery that will keep you turning the pages to figure out who is behind the murder. There is an uproar in the village over a land sale that Alastair was involved in. Maybe someone who was against the land sale killed him. There are other villagers that are suspicious seeming and undercurrents afoot. A very important part of the book with a mystical flair is the fact that the garden on the property is magical and needs to be cared for by a special keeper. Ian was one of a long line and now Fiona is the next one. When she arrived, the plants were dead but came to life soon after. I enjoyed the location and color of the Scottish people and look forward to reading more in the series.
I received a complimentary copy from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are mine only.
May 15, 2018
“Flowers and Foul Play” earns 5/5 Magical Gardens!
I am a fan of the Magical Bookshop Mystery series by Amanda Flower, so I was very eager to join in with “Flowers and Foul Play,” the first book in her new Magic Garden Mystery series. Scotland? Magic Garden? And a dead body? Amanda Flower did not disappoint. She introduces Fiona Knox who has found herself without a fiancé, without a flower shop, and without a favorite relative; the fiancé ran off with the cake decorator, the flower shop was outmatched by a larger flower store, and sadly, her beloved godfather Uncle Ian MacCallister, a man with whom she shared many things as well as the love of flowers, has died. Passport, Miss? Fiona has been named beneficiary of his cottage estate christened Duncreigan, so with little to stop her, she leaves Nashville and heads to Bellewick in County Aberdeen, Scotland! Setting the mystery in Scotland got me eagerly through the garden gate, but Amanda added so much more to the reading experience…I am all in!
Arriving at the cottage needing some obvious care, Hamish MacGregor takes Fiona on the grand tour explaining that the “magic” garden is suffering…dying, now that her godfather is dead, but Fiona’s presence just might turn things around. But, not yet. While showing Fiona the garden, they happen upon the body of the estate’s lawyer Alastair Croft. And do you know what happens when you're first to find the body? Chief Inspector Craig takes Fiona’s passport, and Hamish is at the top of the “suspect” list. But, Fiona discovers a town full of suspects who wouldn't have minded seeing the lawyer planted six feet under, and sets out to prove the inspector’s premise is wrong.
Amanda Flower has penned a well-written mystery with engaging twists and turns adding a bit of magic without being juvenile hocus-pocus. It worked and kept me engaged. She wrote excellent descriptions to bring the Scottish flora and fauna to life, but didn't rely on just the narrative to bring out the investigation results. The clever dialogue illustrated personality and emotion of a plethora of rich, some quirky characters to entertain. And for those who love the fur-friend…Duncan, a pet squirrel? Yes! It was very entertaining! You've got to join in!
"Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley, but this is a voluntary review with honest insights and comments."
I am a fan of the Magical Bookshop Mystery series by Amanda Flower, so I was very eager to join in with “Flowers and Foul Play,” the first book in her new Magic Garden Mystery series. Scotland? Magic Garden? And a dead body? Amanda Flower did not disappoint. She introduces Fiona Knox who has found herself without a fiancé, without a flower shop, and without a favorite relative; the fiancé ran off with the cake decorator, the flower shop was outmatched by a larger flower store, and sadly, her beloved godfather Uncle Ian MacCallister, a man with whom she shared many things as well as the love of flowers, has died. Passport, Miss? Fiona has been named beneficiary of his cottage estate christened Duncreigan, so with little to stop her, she leaves Nashville and heads to Bellewick in County Aberdeen, Scotland! Setting the mystery in Scotland got me eagerly through the garden gate, but Amanda added so much more to the reading experience…I am all in!
Arriving at the cottage needing some obvious care, Hamish MacGregor takes Fiona on the grand tour explaining that the “magic” garden is suffering…dying, now that her godfather is dead, but Fiona’s presence just might turn things around. But, not yet. While showing Fiona the garden, they happen upon the body of the estate’s lawyer Alastair Croft. And do you know what happens when you're first to find the body? Chief Inspector Craig takes Fiona’s passport, and Hamish is at the top of the “suspect” list. But, Fiona discovers a town full of suspects who wouldn't have minded seeing the lawyer planted six feet under, and sets out to prove the inspector’s premise is wrong.
Amanda Flower has penned a well-written mystery with engaging twists and turns adding a bit of magic without being juvenile hocus-pocus. It worked and kept me engaged. She wrote excellent descriptions to bring the Scottish flora and fauna to life, but didn't rely on just the narrative to bring out the investigation results. The clever dialogue illustrated personality and emotion of a plethora of rich, some quirky characters to entertain. And for those who love the fur-friend…Duncan, a pet squirrel? Yes! It was very entertaining! You've got to join in!
"Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley, but this is a voluntary review with honest insights and comments."
October 7, 2018
Flowers and Foul Play in an enchanting first book in the Magic Garden Mystery written by award winning Amanda Flower. Fiona is blown over when she finds out that she has inherited her godfather’s house in a quaint village in Scotland. This inheritance comes with an intriguing stipulation. I enjoyed getting to know the montley crew of villagers. Will she stay in Scotland to fulfill her destiny?
*I love Flower’s description of the cozy village. It is very reminiscent of the charming village in England that is the setting for the Aunt Dimity series.
*I love Flower’s description of the cozy village. It is very reminiscent of the charming village in England that is the setting for the Aunt Dimity series.
May 22, 2019
A light, fast read. Loved the setting of a small village in Scotland.
April 22, 2025
Just loved this so much 🥰🥰
April 1, 2018
Fiona's godfather in Scotland has passed away and left his estate, including a magical garden, to her. The inheritance comes at a good time. Fiona's flower shop in Nashville has gone under and her fiance has decided that he likes the cake decorator more. So Fiona takes her broken heart off to Scotland to settle her godfather's estate.
Upon arrival, she is greeted by Hamish who has been her Uncle Ian's caretaker and gardener during the many times Ian's military service has taken him away from Scotland. Hamish's first goal is to show Fiona the garden which has been dying for lack of a caretaker. Unfortunately the garden has one unplanned addition. The corpse of Fiona's Scottish lawyer is there by the standing stone that is the center of the garden.
The police in the person of Chief Inspector Neil Craig arrive shortly much to Hamish's dismay. Craig is a local boy who had run afoul of Hamish for some pranks in the garden. Craig begins his investigation but Fiona is interested in investigating too.
As Fiona meets the residents of the nearby village, she quickly gathers a number of suspects. It seems her lawyer was in the process of brokering a real estate deal to turn some beloved beach into condos which angered most of the village and drew protests from environmentalists including Hamish's great-nephew. Another suspect is the lawyer's partner who was in love with him but didn't approve of his real estate deals. Ian's family and their magical garden had also drawn the ire of a local minister who is trying to run Fiona out of town. Throw in a local legend about some buried treasure from a shipwreck the led to Ian's ancestor settling in the area and you have still another motive for murder.
I liked the plot of this one but had trouble connecting with the main character who is the first person narrator of the story. I didn't feel like I really got to know her beyond her distress at her broken engagement and her desire to clear the name of her uncle's elderly caretaker.
Upon arrival, she is greeted by Hamish who has been her Uncle Ian's caretaker and gardener during the many times Ian's military service has taken him away from Scotland. Hamish's first goal is to show Fiona the garden which has been dying for lack of a caretaker. Unfortunately the garden has one unplanned addition. The corpse of Fiona's Scottish lawyer is there by the standing stone that is the center of the garden.
The police in the person of Chief Inspector Neil Craig arrive shortly much to Hamish's dismay. Craig is a local boy who had run afoul of Hamish for some pranks in the garden. Craig begins his investigation but Fiona is interested in investigating too.
As Fiona meets the residents of the nearby village, she quickly gathers a number of suspects. It seems her lawyer was in the process of brokering a real estate deal to turn some beloved beach into condos which angered most of the village and drew protests from environmentalists including Hamish's great-nephew. Another suspect is the lawyer's partner who was in love with him but didn't approve of his real estate deals. Ian's family and their magical garden had also drawn the ire of a local minister who is trying to run Fiona out of town. Throw in a local legend about some buried treasure from a shipwreck the led to Ian's ancestor settling in the area and you have still another motive for murder.
I liked the plot of this one but had trouble connecting with the main character who is the first person narrator of the story. I didn't feel like I really got to know her beyond her distress at her broken engagement and her desire to clear the name of her uncle's elderly caretaker.
January 30, 2018
Fiona's going through a rough patch; her flower shop's gone out of business, her fiancé cheated on her and then she gets word that her beloved godfather has died and left her his cottage in Scotland. Arriving to reclaim her inheritance, she discovers the body of Alastair Croft, the lawyer handling her inheritance, dead in her once beautiful garden. Worried that the police suspect her godfather's most trusted friend and employee may be implicated, Fiona asks a few questions around town and discovers that nearly everyone had a motive to kill Alastair.
What a lovely book! The beautiful Scottish countryside drew me in, the magical garden hooked me. With engaging characters, the beautiful setting and the excellent plot, it was a thoroughly charming and light cozy. I loved the writing style, the book came alive with each page, from "seeing" the garden come alive, to the mischievous Duncan the squirrel (and the rivalry between Duncan and Ivanhoe that cat!) to the dramatic landscape of the coast, it was almost like being a part of the action. So well done! The action packed ending had me biting my nails with each page and in the end, there were a few plot threads in the book that I look forward to seeing resolved in later books in the series. This was an excellent first in a new series and I look forward to seeing more of Fiona and friends!
What a lovely book! The beautiful Scottish countryside drew me in, the magical garden hooked me. With engaging characters, the beautiful setting and the excellent plot, it was a thoroughly charming and light cozy. I loved the writing style, the book came alive with each page, from "seeing" the garden come alive, to the mischievous Duncan the squirrel (and the rivalry between Duncan and Ivanhoe that cat!) to the dramatic landscape of the coast, it was almost like being a part of the action. So well done! The action packed ending had me biting my nails with each page and in the end, there were a few plot threads in the book that I look forward to seeing resolved in later books in the series. This was an excellent first in a new series and I look forward to seeing more of Fiona and friends!
June 15, 2018
Flowers and Foul play was a pretty good book. I do like mystery books, particularly ones that are set in small towns. This book reminds me somewhat of an Agatha Christie mystery in the setting.
Fiona Knox arrives in Duncreigan, Scotland, having been abandoned by her fiancee and lost her flower shop in Tennessee. She's inherited her Godfather's estate including a mystical walled garden in which she discovers the dead body of a village attorney. Out of loyalty to her Godfather's gardener, Hamish who is strongly suspected of performing the deed, she begins to nose around looking for clues to who really did it.
There are some mystical, magical elements, like the garden is dead when Fiona arrives, and begins to come back to life when she shows up and continues to hang around. However, the magic of the garden is not over done, and the book does not turn into a magical, supernatural story line. Pretty much, the author sticks to normal mystery type events with the magic garden being a sideline to the main plot.
The characters are believable and interesting. I do like that the author doesn't spend a ton of time with overly detailed descriptions of places and people. The main thrust of the book is events and figuring out who did the deed and why they did it.
Fiona does find herself attracted to the police detective who is investigating the murder. I like that romance and creating a relationship is not a main attraction, pushing out the realities of the mystery, which, in my opinion should be the focus of a mystery book. The romance is lightly and realistically created.
No sex, maybe a few swear words, but nothing offensive to the average reader. All in all, a wholesome, easy read. The mystery wasn't "I can't put down this book even though it's midnight" intriguing but it was interesting and I was invested in figuring out what happens next and how the heroine will solve the puzzle.
Fiona Knox arrives in Duncreigan, Scotland, having been abandoned by her fiancee and lost her flower shop in Tennessee. She's inherited her Godfather's estate including a mystical walled garden in which she discovers the dead body of a village attorney. Out of loyalty to her Godfather's gardener, Hamish who is strongly suspected of performing the deed, she begins to nose around looking for clues to who really did it.
There are some mystical, magical elements, like the garden is dead when Fiona arrives, and begins to come back to life when she shows up and continues to hang around. However, the magic of the garden is not over done, and the book does not turn into a magical, supernatural story line. Pretty much, the author sticks to normal mystery type events with the magic garden being a sideline to the main plot.
The characters are believable and interesting. I do like that the author doesn't spend a ton of time with overly detailed descriptions of places and people. The main thrust of the book is events and figuring out who did the deed and why they did it.
Fiona does find herself attracted to the police detective who is investigating the murder. I like that romance and creating a relationship is not a main attraction, pushing out the realities of the mystery, which, in my opinion should be the focus of a mystery book. The romance is lightly and realistically created.
No sex, maybe a few swear words, but nothing offensive to the average reader. All in all, a wholesome, easy read. The mystery wasn't "I can't put down this book even though it's midnight" intriguing but it was interesting and I was invested in figuring out what happens next and how the heroine will solve the puzzle.
January 6, 2019
I've developed a real fascination for cozy mysteries and Amanda Flower is one of my absolute favourites. I see her name and I squeal! So, it's odd that this Magical Garden series totally fell off my radar this year. Thankfully, the library has my back which is where I stumbled upon Flowers and Foul Play which resulted in a few alarmed looks because I actually did squeal.
Seriously, can it get any better than a magical Scottish garden with a centuries old cottage that comes complete with ancient caretaker and rascally squirrel? Hamish (human) and Duncan (squirrel-who-thinks-he's-human) are the perfect introduction to mystery and mayhem as poor jet-lagged Fiona discovers a body on her newly inherited property.
But, well, actually it can get better. Cue Chief Inspector Neil Craig and be prepared for some all-out swooning! Oh, and I can't forget Ivanhoe -- a Scottish fold cat and Duncan's nemesis. Add in a picturesque village full of eccentric characters with plenty of potential killers in their midst and you get a solid mystery with a touch of whimsy thanks to that magical garden. Awesomesauce wrapped up in a book!
Seriously, can it get any better than a magical Scottish garden with a centuries old cottage that comes complete with ancient caretaker and rascally squirrel? Hamish (human) and Duncan (squirrel-who-thinks-he's-human) are the perfect introduction to mystery and mayhem as poor jet-lagged Fiona discovers a body on her newly inherited property.
But, well, actually it can get better. Cue Chief Inspector Neil Craig and be prepared for some all-out swooning! Oh, and I can't forget Ivanhoe -- a Scottish fold cat and Duncan's nemesis. Add in a picturesque village full of eccentric characters with plenty of potential killers in their midst and you get a solid mystery with a touch of whimsy thanks to that magical garden. Awesomesauce wrapped up in a book!
May 5, 2018
Delightful new cozy mystery. I love the setting in this book. We are in a small Scotland town where there is a magical garden. Fiona arrives to find the garden dead, but it come to life the more she is around it. Unfortunately, she also finds a dead body in this special garden. Hamish, the caretaker, is the primary suspect, and Fiona knows he would not harm a soul. To keep him out of jail, Fiona must track down the real culprit. I love the setting in Flowers and Foul Play. We get beautiful descriptions of the area and the buildings. The garden sounds enchanting. I liked the addition of the treasure to the mystery. Identifying the killer, though, is child's play. I would have liked more information on Fiona (besides the break up with fiance). Some key details were missing. I enjoyed Flowers and Foul Play and look forward to returning to Scotland in the next A Magic Garden Mystery.
August 29, 2020
A fun romp in the Scottish countryside. A promising first book in a series.
July 5, 2022
Flowers and Foul Play
By Amanda Flower
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ok, second one has been ordered. I cannot believe how much I enjoyed this story. I want to find out what happens next for these characters. (& I am adding Scotland to my bucket list) When Fiona's godfather passes away, he leaves her everything. Timing couldn't be more perfect. Fiona takes off from Tennessee straight to Scotland. As soon as she arrives, there is a dead body in the garden. Wow oh wow. As you dive in to this mystery, so does Fiona. A great book from a great author.
Dear Amanda, we might need to chat about adding to this series!
Love, a big fan!
By Amanda Flower
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ok, second one has been ordered. I cannot believe how much I enjoyed this story. I want to find out what happens next for these characters. (& I am adding Scotland to my bucket list) When Fiona's godfather passes away, he leaves her everything. Timing couldn't be more perfect. Fiona takes off from Tennessee straight to Scotland. As soon as she arrives, there is a dead body in the garden. Wow oh wow. As you dive in to this mystery, so does Fiona. A great book from a great author.
Dear Amanda, we might need to chat about adding to this series!
Love, a big fan!
June 11, 2018
Fiona’s life in Tennessee seems to be falling apart so when she is notified of her Godfather’s passing and that he left her his cottage in Scotland she headed to there to decide what to do with her life. Fiona thought she would most likely start her life over in Scotland, but after she discovers a dead body in the garden of her newly inherited cottage she begins to have second thoughts. Fiona can’t help but get involved in the investigation when it seems the elderly caretaker and her Godfather’s best friend is the main suspect.
This is my first book by Author Amanda Flower. Having heard good things about her other series, I jumped at the chance of reading the first book of her new series. I found that I really enjoyed her storytelling. The main character Fiona is a relatable character as her life isn’t perfect but she is determined to keep going no matter what life throws at her. The secondary characters are a mixture of different ages, ethnicities, and personalities. Most of the characters and likable and entertaining both human and animal. The setting in Scotland plays well into the magical garden aspect of the story with its green countrysides and ancient histories and folklore. I really enjoyed the unique combination of Fiona being from Tennessee and speaking with a southern accent while most everyone else spoke with a Scottish accent. The mystery had it’s twist and turns and red herrings to keep you guessing up until the end. I thought I had the murderer figured out but there were some clues I didn’t pick up on so I was pleasantly surprised at the end. I am really looking forward to seeing how this series progresses with the magical aspect, possible romance, and new friendships.
I would recommend this book to cozy mystery fans. I received an ARC of this book in hopes I would give an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and have in no way been influenced.
This is my first book by Author Amanda Flower. Having heard good things about her other series, I jumped at the chance of reading the first book of her new series. I found that I really enjoyed her storytelling. The main character Fiona is a relatable character as her life isn’t perfect but she is determined to keep going no matter what life throws at her. The secondary characters are a mixture of different ages, ethnicities, and personalities. Most of the characters and likable and entertaining both human and animal. The setting in Scotland plays well into the magical garden aspect of the story with its green countrysides and ancient histories and folklore. I really enjoyed the unique combination of Fiona being from Tennessee and speaking with a southern accent while most everyone else spoke with a Scottish accent. The mystery had it’s twist and turns and red herrings to keep you guessing up until the end. I thought I had the murderer figured out but there were some clues I didn’t pick up on so I was pleasantly surprised at the end. I am really looking forward to seeing how this series progresses with the magical aspect, possible romance, and new friendships.
I would recommend this book to cozy mystery fans. I received an ARC of this book in hopes I would give an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and have in no way been influenced.
June 10, 2018
Flowers and Foul Play by Amanda Flower
Fiona is summoned to Scotland after the death of her godfather to claim the cottage he bequeathed her. She has no reason to remain stateside after her fiancé opted for a cake maker and a chain florist next to hers took her customers away and caused her to close.
Arriving, she is greeted by the long tasked caretaker, Hamish and his side kick, Duncan.. a frisky squirrel with secrets to divulge. First is the dead body deposited in the walled garden.
Then the fun begins.
When long-trusted Hamish is queued as the number one murder suspect, Fiona sets her sights on proving his innocence and tethers in some stealthy support from the close knit locals. Fiona has inherited the house, the land, the garden, the friends, and unfortunately, the enemies. Some rear their heads, obviously, others mask them with a smile.
Clues are given (some never really explained, tho obvious) and Fiona proves herself quite adept at following them to fruition. Perils soon enter the story, along with sunken treasure, communicating animals, dank caves, hunky police, eco-warriors, late letters, scones, and of course, magic.
It’s a fun read, but somehow felt like it skimmed the story. I hope there will be more in this setting and with a fleshier telling. Maybe we’ll find out what became of that treasure, the menacing minister, the land and the budding romance. I sure hope so.
(As a side note, it needs a better editing job. Typos are very distracting from what can be an enjoyable read.)
Fiona is summoned to Scotland after the death of her godfather to claim the cottage he bequeathed her. She has no reason to remain stateside after her fiancé opted for a cake maker and a chain florist next to hers took her customers away and caused her to close.
Arriving, she is greeted by the long tasked caretaker, Hamish and his side kick, Duncan.. a frisky squirrel with secrets to divulge. First is the dead body deposited in the walled garden.
Then the fun begins.
When long-trusted Hamish is queued as the number one murder suspect, Fiona sets her sights on proving his innocence and tethers in some stealthy support from the close knit locals. Fiona has inherited the house, the land, the garden, the friends, and unfortunately, the enemies. Some rear their heads, obviously, others mask them with a smile.
Clues are given (some never really explained, tho obvious) and Fiona proves herself quite adept at following them to fruition. Perils soon enter the story, along with sunken treasure, communicating animals, dank caves, hunky police, eco-warriors, late letters, scones, and of course, magic.
It’s a fun read, but somehow felt like it skimmed the story. I hope there will be more in this setting and with a fleshier telling. Maybe we’ll find out what became of that treasure, the menacing minister, the land and the budding romance. I sure hope so.
(As a side note, it needs a better editing job. Typos are very distracting from what can be an enjoyable read.)
January 5, 2018
Flowers and Foul Play, the first Magic Garden Mystery by author Amanda Flower, introduces American Fiona Knox who has inherited a small Scottish cottage and garden from her late godfather, Ian MacCallister. The inheritance was a shock, and couldn't have come at a better time since her fiance jilted her and she lost her business all within the same week. Even more remarkable, however, is the revelation that the garden is magical, and with Ian's passing Fiona is now its keeper. She's also inherited its elderly caretaker, Hamish, and it is with him that she discovers a dead body in the garden upon her arrival. Enter handsome Chief Inspector Neil Craig, and other charismatic residents of Bellewick, and you have a very charming cozy mystery, complete with murder and magic. Nicely written story, and the outcome was a surprise! A+
October 15, 2018
Fiona starts off with a string of bad luck in Nashville but then learns she has inherited her godfathers estate in Scotland. She takes off as she has a meeting with the lawyer handling the estate. She gets it after a long flight and a 3 hour drive to find the gardener, Hamish with his squirrel Duncan and in the garden Fiona stumbles over a body. They get out of there and call the police. It ends up being the body of the lawyer. Strange things are happening in the garden, the ivy is all of a sudden turning green when it had appeared dead.
I enjoyed this book very much and am looking forward to the next one coming out in the spring. I can't forget about the cat Ivanhoe that Fiona takes in as the lawyers partner is allergic. They take to each other right away but Ivanhoe wants to get at the squirrel so bad. lol
I enjoyed this book very much and am looking forward to the next one coming out in the spring. I can't forget about the cat Ivanhoe that Fiona takes in as the lawyers partner is allergic. They take to each other right away but Ivanhoe wants to get at the squirrel so bad. lol
April 26, 2018
Flowers and Foul Play is the first in a new series by Amanda Flower.
The premise of the story is simple, Fiona has lost her Godfather and learns she is the keeper of a magical garden.
Normally when I pick up a book by this author, I'm deep in the mystery and enjoying every but of it.
Unfortunately, that didn't happen this time.
I kept waiting for that moment that the story grabbed my attention, but it just didn't work out.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
The premise of the story is simple, Fiona has lost her Godfather and learns she is the keeper of a magical garden.
Normally when I pick up a book by this author, I'm deep in the mystery and enjoying every but of it.
Unfortunately, that didn't happen this time.
I kept waiting for that moment that the story grabbed my attention, but it just didn't work out.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
April 14, 2019
A questa autrice, ormai, posso dare 5 stelle ad occhi chiusi... Anche se, magari, questo libro non è da punteggio pieno, ma quasi, almeno per me. Mi è piaciuta l'ambientazione (amo la Scozia, a prescindere!), il cast di personaggi (sebbene alcuni siano un po' odiosi), anche la possibile storia d'amore, ma il mistero è in gran parte prevedibile nella sua soluzione. Mi sa che, a forza di leggere cozy mysteries, stiano diventando troppo brava: prima non riuscivo a risolvere un giallo neanche se la mia vita dipendeva da questo...
June 15, 2018
This charming tale takes readers to Scotland where magic and murder mix. Fiona inherits a cottage and grounds from her Scottish godfather. It all seems too wonderful, but trouble invades the little village when a developer wants to buy coastal land for condominiums and the owner wants to sell to him. However, there’s a snag in the deal when a dead body is found in Fiona’s garden. This mystery is peopled with delightful characters, as well as a couple of despicable ones, but the best part of the story is the magical aspect: something strange is happening in the garden! Author Amanda Flower has again given her readers a delightful story of mystery with a touch of romance and, this time, with a sprinkling of magic. Don’t miss it!
July 21, 2024
Fun Read
What a gun start to a magical new series. Fiona is a great fmc that flees to Scotland to check out a recent inheritance after her life essentially falls apart. Upon arrival she is met by a magical garden that just happens to have a dead body in it. This leads to quite the enjoyable mystery to solve as we also learn how to take care of garden. Creates a fabulously fun read perfect for cozy fans. I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
What a gun start to a magical new series. Fiona is a great fmc that flees to Scotland to check out a recent inheritance after her life essentially falls apart. Upon arrival she is met by a magical garden that just happens to have a dead body in it. This leads to quite the enjoyable mystery to solve as we also learn how to take care of garden. Creates a fabulously fun read perfect for cozy fans. I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
May 14, 2020
I loved this first book to start off the Magic Garden series by Amanda Flower! It made me long to visit Scotland so bad. Great characters especially the little squirrel Duncan. I look forward to reading more in this series.
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