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The Poison Garden
A woman’s idyllic life becomes a deceptive hall of mirrors in a thriller of exquisitely constructed psychological suspense by A. J. Banner, bestselling author of The Good Neighbor.
Elise Watters seems to have it all—a blissful marriage, a gorgeous Victorian home surrounded by lush gardens, and a dream job running her late mother’s herbal boutique.
But on the eve of her first wedding anniversary, Elise makes a shocking discovery that turns her life upside down and casts doubt on everything she thought she knew—about her marriage, her friends, and even herself. As she treads into dangerous territory, Elise is forced to wonder: Is her whole future at stake? Or is paranoia getting the best of her?
If she is to believe what she sees, Elise has every reason to fear for her life…
Elise Watters seems to have it all—a blissful marriage, a gorgeous Victorian home surrounded by lush gardens, and a dream job running her late mother’s herbal boutique.
But on the eve of her first wedding anniversary, Elise makes a shocking discovery that turns her life upside down and casts doubt on everything she thought she knew—about her marriage, her friends, and even herself. As she treads into dangerous territory, Elise is forced to wonder: Is her whole future at stake? Or is paranoia getting the best of her?
If she is to believe what she sees, Elise has every reason to fear for her life…
199 pages, Paperback
First published October 22, 2019
3001 people are currently reading
7771 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Banner
8 books1,079 followersA. J. Banner is the USA Today, Publishers Weekly, and #1 Kindle bestselling author of six novels of psychological suspense. She grew up reading Agatha Christie, Daphne du Maurier, and other masters of love and mystery. She always dreamed of writing gripping stories in which nothing is what it seems. She's hard at work on her next novel in her home office overlooking a Pacific Northwest forest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 860 reviews
November 5, 2023
1 "superficial, inconsistent, painful whiplash" star !!!
2019 Runner Up for Worst Read Award
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and Lake Union Publishing for an arc ebook. I will be providing a brief review in exchange.
This book was a huge let-down. The novel is billed as a psychological thriller. IMHO a psychological thriller needs to have-
-psychological congruence , psychological depth, believable twists and turns and plausible motivations for intrapersonal desicions and interpersonal actions
-the book failed on all four counts......by the end my eyes actually hurt from eye-rolling and my tummy hurt from acid reflux
-Overall this was a very and I mean very poor reading experience. I only finished it because I needed to find out how it ended and not in a good way.
-The one star is for some really lovely descriptive sentences describing the landscape of the Pacific Northwest Island. Also a really lovely book cover.
2019 Runner Up for Worst Read Award
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and Lake Union Publishing for an arc ebook. I will be providing a brief review in exchange.
This book was a huge let-down. The novel is billed as a psychological thriller. IMHO a psychological thriller needs to have-
-psychological congruence , psychological depth, believable twists and turns and plausible motivations for intrapersonal desicions and interpersonal actions
-the book failed on all four counts......by the end my eyes actually hurt from eye-rolling and my tummy hurt from acid reflux
-Overall this was a very and I mean very poor reading experience. I only finished it because I needed to find out how it ended and not in a good way.
-The one star is for some really lovely descriptive sentences describing the landscape of the Pacific Northwest Island. Also a really lovely book cover.
June 28, 2019
This was not good. The writing is weak, the plot ludicrous, the characters actions are ridiculous and I'm just glad it was a quick read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 6, 2019
EXCERPT: I tried to cry out, but his fingers were crushing my neck. Spots danced in front of my eyes. Only a gurgling sound came out - I couldn't breathe. My baby! I wanted to scream.
'I had to protect you,' he said. 'I had to-'
I choked, pinpoints of light bursting through my vision as I gasped for air. This is how I'm going to die, I thought. My baby, too. The both of us.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Elise Watters seems to have it all—a blissful marriage, a gorgeous Victorian home surrounded by lush gardens, and a dream job running her late mother’s herbal boutique.
But on the eve of her first wedding anniversary, Elise makes a shocking discovery that turns her life upside down and casts doubt on everything she thought she knew—about her marriage, her friends, and even herself. As she treads into dangerous territory, Elise is forced to wonder: Is her whole future at stake? Or is paranoia getting the best of her?
If she is to believe what she sees, Elise has every reason to fear for her life…
MY THOUGHTS: Having read the majority of this author's previous books, and enjoyed them, I was looking forward to The Poison Garden, enticed also by that beautiful cover.
I was disappointed. Very disappointed. The characters have no depth. The plot, while fast moving, lacks cohesion and believability. I didn't feel any suspense at any point during the read, and largely skimmed the last third. Nor is there anything remotely 'psychological' about it.
It is a quick read, but not one I will be recommending. The Poison Garden could have been a good, creepy, suspenseful psychological thriller, but fails on all fronts. I expected more from this usually excellent author.
Reading is a personal and subjective experience, and what appeals to one may not please another. So if you enjoyed the excerpt from The Poison Garden, and the plot outline appeals, please do go ahead and read it.
😕😖
THE AUTHOR: A. J. Banner grew up reading Agatha Christie, Daphne du Maurier, and other masters of love and mystery. She enjoyed sneaking thrillers from her parents' library, which gave her excellent fodder for her novels of psychological suspense, The Good Neighbor, The Twilight Wife, After Nightfall, and her upcoming release, The Poison Garden. The Good Neighbor was a #1 Kindle bestseller for 34 days in a row, and The Twilight Wife became a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller. After Nightfall has been a Kindle bestseller in several categories. Born in India and raised in North America, she always dreamed of writing gripping stories in which nothing is what it seems. She's hard at work on her next novel in her home office overlooking a Pacific Northwest forest.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Lake Union Publishing via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Poison Garden by A.J. Banner for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'I had to protect you,' he said. 'I had to-'
I choked, pinpoints of light bursting through my vision as I gasped for air. This is how I'm going to die, I thought. My baby, too. The both of us.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Elise Watters seems to have it all—a blissful marriage, a gorgeous Victorian home surrounded by lush gardens, and a dream job running her late mother’s herbal boutique.
But on the eve of her first wedding anniversary, Elise makes a shocking discovery that turns her life upside down and casts doubt on everything she thought she knew—about her marriage, her friends, and even herself. As she treads into dangerous territory, Elise is forced to wonder: Is her whole future at stake? Or is paranoia getting the best of her?
If she is to believe what she sees, Elise has every reason to fear for her life…
MY THOUGHTS: Having read the majority of this author's previous books, and enjoyed them, I was looking forward to The Poison Garden, enticed also by that beautiful cover.
I was disappointed. Very disappointed. The characters have no depth. The plot, while fast moving, lacks cohesion and believability. I didn't feel any suspense at any point during the read, and largely skimmed the last third. Nor is there anything remotely 'psychological' about it.
It is a quick read, but not one I will be recommending. The Poison Garden could have been a good, creepy, suspenseful psychological thriller, but fails on all fronts. I expected more from this usually excellent author.
Reading is a personal and subjective experience, and what appeals to one may not please another. So if you enjoyed the excerpt from The Poison Garden, and the plot outline appeals, please do go ahead and read it.
😕😖
THE AUTHOR: A. J. Banner grew up reading Agatha Christie, Daphne du Maurier, and other masters of love and mystery. She enjoyed sneaking thrillers from her parents' library, which gave her excellent fodder for her novels of psychological suspense, The Good Neighbor, The Twilight Wife, After Nightfall, and her upcoming release, The Poison Garden. The Good Neighbor was a #1 Kindle bestseller for 34 days in a row, and The Twilight Wife became a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller. After Nightfall has been a Kindle bestseller in several categories. Born in India and raised in North America, she always dreamed of writing gripping stories in which nothing is what it seems. She's hard at work on her next novel in her home office overlooking a Pacific Northwest forest.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Lake Union Publishing via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Poison Garden by A.J. Banner for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
July 9, 2019
Elise Watters is full of excitement as she returns home to celebrate her first wedding anniversary to her second husband, a successful doctor. Her life appears perfect - living on a small island off the coast of Washington, running her late mother’s business, and happily married.
However, her idyllic life soon comes crashing down when she comes home early to surprise her husband. Elise begins to question her whole life. Is her husband the man she thought she knew? Was her mother trying to warn her of something? Elise begins to wonder what she is capable of and who to trust. Is she giving in to paranoia, or are her fears legitimate?
A.J. Banner, bestselling author of The Good Neighbor and After Nightfall, delivers a page-turning thriller in The Poison Garden. Full of suspense and intrigue, this book will keep you on your toes as you discover each character’s motivations. A story of love, loss, and revenge, each twist will startle and shock you.
However, her idyllic life soon comes crashing down when she comes home early to surprise her husband. Elise begins to question her whole life. Is her husband the man she thought she knew? Was her mother trying to warn her of something? Elise begins to wonder what she is capable of and who to trust. Is she giving in to paranoia, or are her fears legitimate?
A.J. Banner, bestselling author of The Good Neighbor and After Nightfall, delivers a page-turning thriller in The Poison Garden. Full of suspense and intrigue, this book will keep you on your toes as you discover each character’s motivations. A story of love, loss, and revenge, each twist will startle and shock you.
October 22, 2019
Have you ever walked through a hall of mirrors at a fair or haunted house? They can be pretty confusing right? The description of The Poison Garden includes that analogy, and I can see why. It keeps you guessing, and nothing is at it seems. My first book from A.J. Banner was a quick, absorbing treat.
Elise Watters is one of those women who has it all, but just before her first wedding anniversary, her life falls apart. What she thought she knew before is false (like that hall of mirrors!). Is this true? Is it really happening? Or is Elise just paranoid?
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Elise Watters is one of those women who has it all, but just before her first wedding anniversary, her life falls apart. What she thought she knew before is false (like that hall of mirrors!). Is this true? Is it really happening? Or is Elise just paranoid?
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
August 27, 2019
I loved “After Nightfall” which I read last year, so I was excited to see that A.J. Banner was releasing a new title, this October. I immediately requested an ARC, and was pleased when my request was approved.
But, unfortunately, I cannot recommend this one.
The characters lacked authenticity and the plot was extremely far fetched.
At only 208 pages, I was able to read this quickly, hoping it would get better, but it just didn’t.
There are some five star reviews so if your taste in this genre differs from mine, than perhaps you should read a few of those before deciding if this might be a better fit for you than it was for me.
Thank You to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and the author for the digital ARC I received in exchange for a candid review.
But, unfortunately, I cannot recommend this one.
The characters lacked authenticity and the plot was extremely far fetched.
At only 208 pages, I was able to read this quickly, hoping it would get better, but it just didn’t.
There are some five star reviews so if your taste in this genre differs from mine, than perhaps you should read a few of those before deciding if this might be a better fit for you than it was for me.
Thank You to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and the author for the digital ARC I received in exchange for a candid review.
November 5, 2019
The Poison Garden by A.J. Banner is the first book I've read by this author but I'm definitely interested in reading more.
The poison garden is a typical domestic thriller with the cheating husband who likes to play mind games and the lying ex-husband oh they both want to kill her too (this woman definitely knows how to pick her men 😬) but she has the most fabulous friend next door, if she wasn't there the ending would of been sooo different.
It's a short book of only 194 pages it's not rushed and there isn't any important questions left unanswered (which is normally the case) it just seemed a little ' here we go again ' kind of book for me but it's definitely worth recommending 📖
The poison garden is a typical domestic thriller with the cheating husband who likes to play mind games and the lying ex-husband oh they both want to kill her too (this woman definitely knows how to pick her men 😬) but she has the most fabulous friend next door, if she wasn't there the ending would of been sooo different.
It's a short book of only 194 pages it's not rushed and there isn't any important questions left unanswered (which is normally the case) it just seemed a little ' here we go again ' kind of book for me but it's definitely worth recommending 📖
June 3, 2019
The Poison Garden, a suspense/thriller book, was a solid 4 stars.
The book centers around main character Elise-a financially independent woman who is happily married to a doctor. Elise’s life begins to unravel as she returns home only to find her husband in bed with a much younger woman. To make matters worse, she overhears them discussing the need to get “rid” of her. Elise, who is worth millions, kicks her husband out of her life and starts an investigation of her own. Elise discovers that her husband is in serious financial trouble and she starts to worry that he’s going to try to kill her for her money. There is a lot that goes on in this book but no spoilers here.
The Poison Garden is a fast read and I’d recommend it to fans of mystery/thriller books. Thank you NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The book centers around main character Elise-a financially independent woman who is happily married to a doctor. Elise’s life begins to unravel as she returns home only to find her husband in bed with a much younger woman. To make matters worse, she overhears them discussing the need to get “rid” of her. Elise, who is worth millions, kicks her husband out of her life and starts an investigation of her own. Elise discovers that her husband is in serious financial trouble and she starts to worry that he’s going to try to kill her for her money. There is a lot that goes on in this book but no spoilers here.
The Poison Garden is a fast read and I’d recommend it to fans of mystery/thriller books. Thank you NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2020
“Where there is barren soil, she plants a seed. Where there is destruction, she creates hope. Where darkness has spread, she breathes light.”
― A.J. Banner, The Poison Garden
review to follow.
I read this quickly and while I did not dislike it, it is just so much like many books I have read this year. They sort of all read the same for me. I think I am a bit burnt out on the genre so that doesn't help.
Elise finds her husband cheating. This is not a spoiler. It happens in the first few pages. It is what happens after that discovery that the plot sort of lost me.
Honestly I have had my fill of psycho husbands. I seem to be reading all about them these days and in this one we do not have just one, we've got two potential craycrays. Of coarse we do not know. It is another book where nothing is as it seems and good becomes bad becomes good becomes bad..
I am just tired of domestic Noir with to many twists. You know what? I'd really just have liked to read about the infidelity and the couple's attempts to rebuild their marriage. I did not really want another Gothic domestic horror.
Do not get me wrong. This was not written badly or anything. But I guessed the whole plot before it all even happened and I just need a bit more of a challenge. I think I am going to ease off on this genre for awhile.
― A.J. Banner, The Poison Garden
review to follow.
I read this quickly and while I did not dislike it, it is just so much like many books I have read this year. They sort of all read the same for me. I think I am a bit burnt out on the genre so that doesn't help.
Elise finds her husband cheating. This is not a spoiler. It happens in the first few pages. It is what happens after that discovery that the plot sort of lost me.
Honestly I have had my fill of psycho husbands. I seem to be reading all about them these days and in this one we do not have just one, we've got two potential craycrays. Of coarse we do not know. It is another book where nothing is as it seems and good becomes bad becomes good becomes bad..
I am just tired of domestic Noir with to many twists. You know what? I'd really just have liked to read about the infidelity and the couple's attempts to rebuild their marriage. I did not really want another Gothic domestic horror.
Do not get me wrong. This was not written badly or anything. But I guessed the whole plot before it all even happened and I just need a bit more of a challenge. I think I am going to ease off on this genre for awhile.
October 27, 2019
Returning from a trip to the city to spend her anniversary weekend with her husband of a year Elise's life is plunged into disarray.
everything Elise thought she knew about her perfect existence is brought into close scrutiny and question and as she further investigates to get to the hidden truths, her eyes are then further opened as her world crumbles around her.
Not knowing who she can trust or even believe Elise has only herself to rely on.
So this was mainly told from Elise's POV with some slight input from her neighbour Chantel who also seems to have her own personal hidden agenda concerning Elise.
This was such an easy page-turner captivating and intriguing with a deep vein of mystery running through its narrative.
Despite appearances, this was so far from the obvious I was expecting and this changed directions on me constantly blind-siding me along the way.
I was suitably impressed with the masterful story-weaving skills of this author.
If psychological thrillers are your genre of choice I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one not only was it such an enjoyable read its a bloody good one definitely keeping me on my toes throughout.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of The Poison Garden.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
May 13, 2022
لم تكن الحديقة وحدها السامة بل الأشخاص الذين تلتقي بهم " أليس " كذلك...
لا أدري لما يقع اختيارها دوماً على الأوغاد 🤪
ومازلت اتساءل كيف يمكن لأحدهم أن يتوهم بناء جسر الثقة من جديد مع شخص مُخادع وخائن ؟!!
يفترض إنها رواية جريمة ، لكن يمكن التنبوء بالأحداث ، كما إنها تبدو لي عادية ولم تأت بجديد...
لا أدري لما يقع اختيارها دوماً على الأوغاد 🤪
ومازلت اتساءل كيف يمكن لأحدهم أن يتوهم بناء جسر الثقة من جديد مع شخص مُخادع وخائن ؟!!
يفترض إنها رواية جريمة ، لكن يمكن التنبوء بالأحداث ، كما إنها تبدو لي عادية ولم تأت بجديد...
October 4, 2019
3 stars for AJ Banner's latest psychological thriller, The Poison Garden.
I absolutely LOVED Banner's previous book, After Nightfall, but unfortunately, the paranoia of the main character was so frustrating it ruined my enjoyment of the book. This book started out all over the place but started to come together a bit more around the midpoint, which is when my interest level really picked up and continued to build to an ending that I thought was entertaining.
This book is under 300 pages which makes it the excellent beach thriller, back it for the day, lay back and be glad you are not our protagonist, Elise, or anyone in her vicinity!
Thank you to Lake Union/Amazon Publishing for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
I absolutely LOVED Banner's previous book, After Nightfall, but unfortunately, the paranoia of the main character was so frustrating it ruined my enjoyment of the book. This book started out all over the place but started to come together a bit more around the midpoint, which is when my interest level really picked up and continued to build to an ending that I thought was entertaining.
This book is under 300 pages which makes it the excellent beach thriller, back it for the day, lay back and be glad you are not our protagonist, Elise, or anyone in her vicinity!
Thank you to Lake Union/Amazon Publishing for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
October 2, 2019
Complex, twisty, and unpredictable!
The Poison Garden is an unnerving, menacing, domestic thriller that delves into all the deep, dark secrets people keep even from those closest to them and highlights just how easily people can be psychologically and emotionally manipulated.
The prose is tight and intense. The characters are secretive, unstable, and troubled. And the plot, told through an unreliable narrator, builds and unravels briskly into a story filled with unexpected twists, suspicious personalities, lethal vegetation, familial drama, deception, jealousy, violence, and greed.
Overall, The Poison Garden is a sinister, tortuous, cunning tale by Banner that keeps you guessing from the very first page and is fast-paced, highly entertaining, and eerily atmospheric.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Poison Garden is an unnerving, menacing, domestic thriller that delves into all the deep, dark secrets people keep even from those closest to them and highlights just how easily people can be psychologically and emotionally manipulated.
The prose is tight and intense. The characters are secretive, unstable, and troubled. And the plot, told through an unreliable narrator, builds and unravels briskly into a story filled with unexpected twists, suspicious personalities, lethal vegetation, familial drama, deception, jealousy, violence, and greed.
Overall, The Poison Garden is a sinister, tortuous, cunning tale by Banner that keeps you guessing from the very first page and is fast-paced, highly entertaining, and eerily atmospheric.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2019
I received a free e-copy of The Poison Garden by A.J. Banner from NetGalley for my honest review.
An suspenseful read full of twists and turns. A wonderfully driven book with fantastic characters. There were time I thought I had things figured out in this book, but found out I did not.
An suspenseful read full of twists and turns. A wonderfully driven book with fantastic characters. There were time I thought I had things figured out in this book, but found out I did not.
October 9, 2019
Elise is heading back to Chinook Island, preparing to celebrate her first wedding anniversary with her husband, Dr. Kieran Lund. They seem to have an ideal, loving marriage, living in Elise's childhood home. Once a pharmacist, she now runs her late mother's herbal boutique. But upon her arrival to the island, Elise makes a shocking discovery, causing her to doubt all she thought about Kieran and their marriage. Soon she finds herself doubting everyone--even her own memories.
"On the ferry ride home, I was not yet planning to kill anyone. I was still full of hope, eager to land on Chinook Island..."
This is one of those thrillers where you have to go in willing to suspend a little disbelief. It's a bit crazy and a little preposterous, sure. But I have to admit, this was a fun one. I was a little hesitant for a while, pretty sure I had it all figured out and it wasn't going to surprise me. But, I'll gladly admit, I was wrong! This turned out to be a very enthralling read, and I consumed the last half breathlessly, quite intrigued to find out what happened with Elise and Keiran.
I was doubtful about this one in the beginning because it relies on the somewhat overused unreliable narrator trope: can we trust Elise? It seems she's been a sleepwalker in the past, and now, stressed once again, has turned back to her old habits. (At least she wasn't an alcoholic.) I didn't really love Elise, but I admire a book that can keep me engaged even when I'm not 100% behind our protagonist.
"Was I going mad? Padding around in the dark, my subconscious alter ego seizing control?
In fact none of our cast of characters is a real winner: Elise's new husband; her ex, who seems a bit stalkery; her flirtatious neighbor... There is a lot of focus on herbs and medicinal plants, which Elise's mom used in her store. You're never really sure where or why some of the details are thrown in.
But... where this book succeeds and what makes it worth reading is its unpredictability. All of those details are, in fact, quite important. By the end, when it all came together, I was quite surprised (a little mad at myself for not putting more together sooner) and impressed. This one kept me guessing and outwitted me. It was a very easy read and a fun, different thriller. 3.75 stars--rounded to 4 here.
I received a copy of this book from Lake Union Publishing and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review. It is available on 10/22/2019.
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"On the ferry ride home, I was not yet planning to kill anyone. I was still full of hope, eager to land on Chinook Island..."
This is one of those thrillers where you have to go in willing to suspend a little disbelief. It's a bit crazy and a little preposterous, sure. But I have to admit, this was a fun one. I was a little hesitant for a while, pretty sure I had it all figured out and it wasn't going to surprise me. But, I'll gladly admit, I was wrong! This turned out to be a very enthralling read, and I consumed the last half breathlessly, quite intrigued to find out what happened with Elise and Keiran.
I was doubtful about this one in the beginning because it relies on the somewhat overused unreliable narrator trope: can we trust Elise? It seems she's been a sleepwalker in the past, and now, stressed once again, has turned back to her old habits. (At least she wasn't an alcoholic.) I didn't really love Elise, but I admire a book that can keep me engaged even when I'm not 100% behind our protagonist.
"Was I going mad? Padding around in the dark, my subconscious alter ego seizing control?
In fact none of our cast of characters is a real winner: Elise's new husband; her ex, who seems a bit stalkery; her flirtatious neighbor... There is a lot of focus on herbs and medicinal plants, which Elise's mom used in her store. You're never really sure where or why some of the details are thrown in.
But... where this book succeeds and what makes it worth reading is its unpredictability. All of those details are, in fact, quite important. By the end, when it all came together, I was quite surprised (a little mad at myself for not putting more together sooner) and impressed. This one kept me guessing and outwitted me. It was a very easy read and a fun, different thriller. 3.75 stars--rounded to 4 here.
I received a copy of this book from Lake Union Publishing and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review. It is available on 10/22/2019.
Blog ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Instagram ~ PaperBackSwap ~ Smashbomb
October 22, 2019
Check out my fascinating QA Elevator Interview with the amazing A.J. Banner You are in for a rare treat as she shares the "story behind the story" and learn about her traveling writing studio and vintage typewriters!
Master storyteller and talented author, A. J. Banner returns following, After Nightfall My Top Books of 2018, with her latest captivating thriller —THE POISON GARDEN and once again, Top Books of 2019.
Richly Atmospheric. Spellbinding. Absorbing. Twisty. Compellingly hypnotic!
A strong character-driven magical taut, psychological suspense thriller. THE POISON GARDEN is infused with rich, detailed and vivid descriptions.
From lyrical prose, a lush and evocative island (Gothic-like) setting, and a strong sense of place drawing you into this world of mystery and intrigue—making this another page-turner winner by A.J.!
Set in Pacific Northwest on the fictional exotic and quaint Chinook Island— part of the stunning islands in the Washington State area. (we all love the San Juan Island area-breathtaking)!
What could be a more alluring setting with all the charming shops, views, and sites?
From an island only accessible by a ferry, to the elegant childhood Victorian home, the lush, magical gardens, and the hundreds of acres of forest and trails, leading to a windswept beach, plus the herbal boutique cottage.
I want to go now!
THE POISON GARDEN is somewhat of a rectangular or square relationship filled with ongoing suspense and intrigue, rather than a triangle.
We have four main characters involved in this saga. Kieran (husband), Brandon (ex-husband), Chantal (neighbor/friend), and Elsie (former pharmacist and current shop owner). They are all connected in some way. We also have secondary characters, Diane and Elsie’s mother —Selene, from the past.
Elise seems to have it all. A blissful marriage, a sizable inheritance from her mom, a gorgeous Victorian home surrounded by lush gardens, and a dream job of running her late mother’s herbal boutique.
However, for a woman who has it all, we soon learn men have complicated her life.
Not only her current husband, doctor, Kieran, which she can no longer trust, but there is also her ex-husband, Brandon - destined to keep showing up. There are many pieces to this fairy-tale puzzle!
After Elsie’s mom died, she took over her mother’s business. The herbal shop, Clary Sage, sat in the woods behind her house within the lush gardens. She kept it open to honor her mother.
Elsie was a former pharmacist, and the pressures wore her down, and after her mom’s death, she returned to a slower life on the island. She loved gardening and shopkeeping but was still working and learning about creating effective botanical remedies in the little shop in the garden.
At the beginning of the book, she discovers her husband cheating with another woman in her own house.
Chantal Gittner, Elsie’s neighbor, finds her in the garden, where she fainted. Often Elsie does not recall things as sort of a sleepwalking time out.
There was also a strangely shaped plant that had reemerged in the herb bed, with reddish flowers resembling tiny hearts — the Juliet. Hey, you cannot have a poison without a poisonous plant, right?
Her mother had warned her not to touch the plant. You had to use just the right amount of powdered extract in tinctures and formulas. If someone administered too much, it could be deadly.
Juliet becomes part of the ongoing mystery in the novel, as relates to Romeo and Juliet. Between the parallels, and symbolisms of plants (healing, natural, and deadly), as relates to the toxic people and relationships in our lives.
Chantal is enigmatic. You never know what is going on with her. She is Elsie’s friend and neighbor. She is also a computer hacker. Smoke and mirrors here and one of the most intriguing characters.
Had Elsie fallen into an altered state?
Strange things began occurring. Items in the shop appeared to have been moved or misplaced. Elsie's mother's journal appeared she had never seen. Stuff on the prep table was tipped over. Elsie began losing time; there are strange credit card bills, her mother's past, another woman, a husband, an ex-husband, and a neighbor and friend.
Was her husband trying to kill her for the insurance money? Why hadn’t she been more alert to his charming smile? He talks of going out on a yacht with her. Will he try to drown her or kill her with poison? She fears for her life. Or is there something bigger and more sinister going on?
Brandon, Chantal, and Kieran all start acting strange, or is she paranoid? Is someone trying to make it look like she is losing her mind? Who can she trust? Mix all of this within the lush, mysterious grounds, roaring seas, and forest—Intriguing!
If you love the TV series THE AFFAIR (I am a huge fan), you will enjoy THE POISON GARDEN!
There are many themes, topics, and emotions explored in THE POISON GARDEN. Marriage, romance, betrayal, murder, cancer, obsession, revenge, addiction, infidelity, friendship, and grief. Smoke and mirrors are predominant. A confusing or disorienting situation in which it is difficult to distinguish between truth and illusion or between competing versions of reality.
WOW! For a small book, there is much to love in THE POISON GARDEN! A story of love, loss, betrayal, and deceit. As always, AJ keeps you in suspense and always surprises. A chilling domestic suspense adventure, hooking you from the first page until the end!
AJ knows how to create the perfect backdrop for each of her novels and never disappoints. She has an uncanny way of grabbing your attention and captivating you. Each time you pick up her book is like a mesmerizing adventure awaits.
For fans of authors, Sarah Addison Allen crossed with Mary Kubica, Kimberly Belle, Gilly Macmillan, and Liane Moriarty, combined with A.J.'s signature style!
I highly recommend all of AJ's books—one of my favorite authors!
A special thank you to Lake Union, the author, and NetGalley for an advanced reading copy.
#JDCMustReadBooks
Master storyteller and talented author, A. J. Banner returns following, After Nightfall My Top Books of 2018, with her latest captivating thriller —THE POISON GARDEN and once again, Top Books of 2019.
Richly Atmospheric. Spellbinding. Absorbing. Twisty. Compellingly hypnotic!
A strong character-driven magical taut, psychological suspense thriller. THE POISON GARDEN is infused with rich, detailed and vivid descriptions.
From lyrical prose, a lush and evocative island (Gothic-like) setting, and a strong sense of place drawing you into this world of mystery and intrigue—making this another page-turner winner by A.J.!
Set in Pacific Northwest on the fictional exotic and quaint Chinook Island— part of the stunning islands in the Washington State area. (we all love the San Juan Island area-breathtaking)!
What could be a more alluring setting with all the charming shops, views, and sites?
From an island only accessible by a ferry, to the elegant childhood Victorian home, the lush, magical gardens, and the hundreds of acres of forest and trails, leading to a windswept beach, plus the herbal boutique cottage.
I want to go now!
THE POISON GARDEN is somewhat of a rectangular or square relationship filled with ongoing suspense and intrigue, rather than a triangle.
We have four main characters involved in this saga. Kieran (husband), Brandon (ex-husband), Chantal (neighbor/friend), and Elsie (former pharmacist and current shop owner). They are all connected in some way. We also have secondary characters, Diane and Elsie’s mother —Selene, from the past.
Elise seems to have it all. A blissful marriage, a sizable inheritance from her mom, a gorgeous Victorian home surrounded by lush gardens, and a dream job of running her late mother’s herbal boutique.
However, for a woman who has it all, we soon learn men have complicated her life.
Not only her current husband, doctor, Kieran, which she can no longer trust, but there is also her ex-husband, Brandon - destined to keep showing up. There are many pieces to this fairy-tale puzzle!
After Elsie’s mom died, she took over her mother’s business. The herbal shop, Clary Sage, sat in the woods behind her house within the lush gardens. She kept it open to honor her mother.
Elsie was a former pharmacist, and the pressures wore her down, and after her mom’s death, she returned to a slower life on the island. She loved gardening and shopkeeping but was still working and learning about creating effective botanical remedies in the little shop in the garden.
At the beginning of the book, she discovers her husband cheating with another woman in her own house.
Chantal Gittner, Elsie’s neighbor, finds her in the garden, where she fainted. Often Elsie does not recall things as sort of a sleepwalking time out.
There was also a strangely shaped plant that had reemerged in the herb bed, with reddish flowers resembling tiny hearts — the Juliet. Hey, you cannot have a poison without a poisonous plant, right?
Her mother had warned her not to touch the plant. You had to use just the right amount of powdered extract in tinctures and formulas. If someone administered too much, it could be deadly.
Juliet becomes part of the ongoing mystery in the novel, as relates to Romeo and Juliet. Between the parallels, and symbolisms of plants (healing, natural, and deadly), as relates to the toxic people and relationships in our lives.
Chantal is enigmatic. You never know what is going on with her. She is Elsie’s friend and neighbor. She is also a computer hacker. Smoke and mirrors here and one of the most intriguing characters.
Had Elsie fallen into an altered state?
Strange things began occurring. Items in the shop appeared to have been moved or misplaced. Elsie's mother's journal appeared she had never seen. Stuff on the prep table was tipped over. Elsie began losing time; there are strange credit card bills, her mother's past, another woman, a husband, an ex-husband, and a neighbor and friend.
Was her husband trying to kill her for the insurance money? Why hadn’t she been more alert to his charming smile? He talks of going out on a yacht with her. Will he try to drown her or kill her with poison? She fears for her life. Or is there something bigger and more sinister going on?
Brandon, Chantal, and Kieran all start acting strange, or is she paranoid? Is someone trying to make it look like she is losing her mind? Who can she trust? Mix all of this within the lush, mysterious grounds, roaring seas, and forest—Intriguing!
If you love the TV series THE AFFAIR (I am a huge fan), you will enjoy THE POISON GARDEN!
There are many themes, topics, and emotions explored in THE POISON GARDEN. Marriage, romance, betrayal, murder, cancer, obsession, revenge, addiction, infidelity, friendship, and grief. Smoke and mirrors are predominant. A confusing or disorienting situation in which it is difficult to distinguish between truth and illusion or between competing versions of reality.
WOW! For a small book, there is much to love in THE POISON GARDEN! A story of love, loss, betrayal, and deceit. As always, AJ keeps you in suspense and always surprises. A chilling domestic suspense adventure, hooking you from the first page until the end!
AJ knows how to create the perfect backdrop for each of her novels and never disappoints. She has an uncanny way of grabbing your attention and captivating you. Each time you pick up her book is like a mesmerizing adventure awaits.
For fans of authors, Sarah Addison Allen crossed with Mary Kubica, Kimberly Belle, Gilly Macmillan, and Liane Moriarty, combined with A.J.'s signature style!
I highly recommend all of AJ's books—one of my favorite authors!
A special thank you to Lake Union, the author, and NetGalley for an advanced reading copy.
#JDCMustReadBooks
October 26, 2019
This was such a good book to read, I read it so quickly because I just couldn’t put it down. It had all the elements I love in a thriller, twisty and exciting and sometimes creepy.
It was a little bit different to a lot of the thrillers I’ve read in the past but it kept me guessing right down to the end.
I would certainly read this author again and recommend this book to my friends.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
It was a little bit different to a lot of the thrillers I’ve read in the past but it kept me guessing right down to the end.
I would certainly read this author again and recommend this book to my friends.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
October 27, 2019
I really loved A. J. Banner’s last book, so I was excited to hear about her newest novel The Poison Garden. She has a way of writing about that niggle of doubt in a relationship that can tear it wide open.
Elise runs an herbal boutique she inherited from her late mother. Elise’s mom died a few years earlier, and in the wake of her grief her mother’s physician is there for her. And soon the handsome doctor becomes more than just a confidant, he becomes her husband.
On the eve of her wedding anniversary, Elise is adding her husband to her will and her finances. She inherited quite a bit from her mother passing and it’s time to move on. But when she arrives home early and finds her husband in a compromising position, everything Elise thought she knew is turned on it’s head.
And thus begins a terrible time in Elise’s life. Not only is she dealing with the destruction of her marriage, but it appears that her life may be in danger. Though is it from someone with nefarious intent, or is she losing it?
A.J. Banner played with memory a lot in this book, as well as sleep. Elise has a sleep-walking habit which I found to be an interesting element. She was never entirely at grips with herself and what she has done, which led to that unsettling feeling that permeates the story.
I wish I could say more about the ending but this one has some great twists so I don’t want to risk spoiling. I hope you enjoy it!!
Thank you to Kathleen Carter and Lake Union Publishing for my copy. Opinions are my own.
Elise runs an herbal boutique she inherited from her late mother. Elise’s mom died a few years earlier, and in the wake of her grief her mother’s physician is there for her. And soon the handsome doctor becomes more than just a confidant, he becomes her husband.
On the eve of her wedding anniversary, Elise is adding her husband to her will and her finances. She inherited quite a bit from her mother passing and it’s time to move on. But when she arrives home early and finds her husband in a compromising position, everything Elise thought she knew is turned on it’s head.
And thus begins a terrible time in Elise’s life. Not only is she dealing with the destruction of her marriage, but it appears that her life may be in danger. Though is it from someone with nefarious intent, or is she losing it?
A.J. Banner played with memory a lot in this book, as well as sleep. Elise has a sleep-walking habit which I found to be an interesting element. She was never entirely at grips with herself and what she has done, which led to that unsettling feeling that permeates the story.
I wish I could say more about the ending but this one has some great twists so I don’t want to risk spoiling. I hope you enjoy it!!
Thank you to Kathleen Carter and Lake Union Publishing for my copy. Opinions are my own.
January 31, 2020
This is a fast paced thriller and it keeps you guessing until the VERY LAST PAGE!! So many twists and turns - I thought I had it figured out then I would turn the page ... nope, it wasn’t that at all!! It’s a quick read! P.S. There’s an actual Dr. Thacker in the book (which is my last name) lol
July 22, 2019
AJ Banner can always deliver the perfect domestic thriller with just the right amount of suspense. I've read the last three novels written by AJ Banner and each have always hit the mark perfectly with me. If you are picking up one of Banner's novels, you know that it'll involve a married couple being thrown tribulations that many would not be able to handle and
The Poison Garden
is no exception.
Elise Watters is married to the neighborhood doctor, Kieran Lund, and the two have been together for three years (married for one). Elise has a local shop nearby while her husband is a respected patron of the town. Elise and Kieran are both on their second marriage, Kieran being a widower while Elise's ex husband keeps popping up from time to time because he's a contractor that still gets work in the area. One night, Elise returns home to find her husband tangled with another woman—a young, impressionable woman named Diane. Flabbergasted and angry, Elise kicks Kieran out of her house. As she begins to investigate her husband and his affairs, she starts uncovering the unsettling truth that he may not have married her for love, but for something else entirely.
My synopsis breakdown is shorter than usual because The Poison Garden isn't long enough to promise more. It's a fast, short read—spanning a little bit more than 200 pages. You can read this in one sitting (I did in two), but you should allow yourself to find out the mystery while you're reading, rather than looking for spoilers. The Poison Garden is a bit over-dramatic at times, but still done tastefully. It's a juicy domestic thriller that doesn't take itself too seriously. The Poison Garden is definitely lighter than Banner's last book, After Nightfall and it feels more in line within the realm in The Twilight Wife.
I would've given this book a full five star review, but the end has a lot of twists and unexpected turns that made me second guess the reality of the story. I did enjoy that the author chose to provide an unexpected result—I thought I've read every type of thriller in the book, but The Poison Garden is definitely different. Overall, The Poison Garden is an exhilarating fast-paced light read that fans of Victoria Helen Stone and Tarryn Fisher will enjoy.
Elise Watters is married to the neighborhood doctor, Kieran Lund, and the two have been together for three years (married for one). Elise has a local shop nearby while her husband is a respected patron of the town. Elise and Kieran are both on their second marriage, Kieran being a widower while Elise's ex husband keeps popping up from time to time because he's a contractor that still gets work in the area. One night, Elise returns home to find her husband tangled with another woman—a young, impressionable woman named Diane. Flabbergasted and angry, Elise kicks Kieran out of her house. As she begins to investigate her husband and his affairs, she starts uncovering the unsettling truth that he may not have married her for love, but for something else entirely.
My synopsis breakdown is shorter than usual because The Poison Garden isn't long enough to promise more. It's a fast, short read—spanning a little bit more than 200 pages. You can read this in one sitting (I did in two), but you should allow yourself to find out the mystery while you're reading, rather than looking for spoilers. The Poison Garden is a bit over-dramatic at times, but still done tastefully. It's a juicy domestic thriller that doesn't take itself too seriously. The Poison Garden is definitely lighter than Banner's last book, After Nightfall and it feels more in line within the realm in The Twilight Wife.
I would've given this book a full five star review, but the end has a lot of twists and unexpected turns that made me second guess the reality of the story. I did enjoy that the author chose to provide an unexpected result—I thought I've read every type of thriller in the book, but The Poison Garden is definitely different. Overall, The Poison Garden is an exhilarating fast-paced light read that fans of Victoria Helen Stone and Tarryn Fisher will enjoy.
April 21, 2022
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October 11, 2020
2.5 stars
October 22, 2019
This was my first time reading this author. This was a dark and intense twisted story. It kept me on edge and I was totally glued to it. I loved all the twists and suspense. I'll be reading all her books! This was a fabulous thriller. Well written. One of the best I've read this year.
I was given a copy from the publisher for my honest review.
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
I was given a copy from the publisher for my honest review.
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
February 20, 2020
This was a great mystery
August 27, 2019
I loved “After Nightfall” which I read last year, so I was excited to see that A.J. Banner was releasing a new title, this October. I immediately requested an ARC, and was pleased when my request was approved.
But, unfortunately, I cannot recommend this one.
The characters lacked authenticity and the plot was extremely far fetched.
At only 208 pages, I was able to read this quickly, hoping it would get better, but it just didn’t.
There are some 5 star reviews, so if your tastes in this genre differ from mine, then I suggest you read a few of the higher rated reviews to decide if this may be a better fit for you, than it was for me.
Thank You to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and the author for the digital ARC I received in exchange for a candid review.
But, unfortunately, I cannot recommend this one.
The characters lacked authenticity and the plot was extremely far fetched.
At only 208 pages, I was able to read this quickly, hoping it would get better, but it just didn’t.
There are some 5 star reviews, so if your tastes in this genre differ from mine, then I suggest you read a few of the higher rated reviews to decide if this may be a better fit for you, than it was for me.
Thank You to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and the author for the digital ARC I received in exchange for a candid review.
June 21, 2019
I’ve been bitten by the A.J. Banner bug! Started her latest addictive thriller and could not stop reading. I mean COULD NOT STOP ‘til the very end. And whatta end! Sheesh, a girl’s gotta have a life, A. J. But all I wanted to do was read. And read. And READ! I bet you will too when you pick up THE POISON GARDEN and meet Elise, she of the perfect life on the cusp of her first wedding anniversary, who learns the most shocking thing. Is what she thinks true? Is her very life in danger? OMG! 5/5
Pub Date 22 Oct 2019.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#ThePoisonGarden #NetGalley
Pub Date 22 Oct 2019.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#ThePoisonGarden #NetGalley
June 27, 2019
I really struggled through this book. It just did not work for me. The story was all over the place and the characters were unlikeable and annoying. The twists and turns in the book seemed a little too convenient. I wish I could say nice things about the book but I just can't. It wasn't for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2019
Pageturner alert!
This book is so good I finished it in two sittings.
Elise abruptly breaks up from her husband after he has done the unthinkable. But he won't let her go. Protected by another ex and a seemingly goodhearted neighbour, she stuggles to find her feet. But soon the husband mysteriously disappears and the ex becomes a creepy stalker. And where does the neighbour fit in?
Meanwhile Elise suffers from sleepwalking. What's the dream, what's real?
And how does her mother's diary explain what is happening, what role does the herbal garden play?
This is one heck of a story, having me on the edge of my seat. Fast paced, realistic writing and good dialogue. With only four main characters to concentrate on, the reader feels trapped in an eery environment.
Psychological thriller at its best. Too bad the end is quite predictable.
Thank you Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.
This book is so good I finished it in two sittings.
Elise abruptly breaks up from her husband after he has done the unthinkable. But he won't let her go. Protected by another ex and a seemingly goodhearted neighbour, she stuggles to find her feet. But soon the husband mysteriously disappears and the ex becomes a creepy stalker. And where does the neighbour fit in?
Meanwhile Elise suffers from sleepwalking. What's the dream, what's real?
And how does her mother's diary explain what is happening, what role does the herbal garden play?
This is one heck of a story, having me on the edge of my seat. Fast paced, realistic writing and good dialogue. With only four main characters to concentrate on, the reader feels trapped in an eery environment.
Psychological thriller at its best. Too bad the end is quite predictable.
Thank you Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.
October 14, 2019
Talk about a one sitting, binge worthy read! Not only is this on the shorter side making it super easy to breeze through, it’s also incredibly pacey and engaging making it super hard to put down. Throw in a healthy dose of paranoia and a whole heap of secrets and this is one fun read, perfect for this time of year.
While this was definitely full of intrigue and suspense it was on the lighter side of the suspense world, nothing too dark or disturbing but still really juicy and entertaining. The drama was high here and at times a bit over the top, but I love that style and found it added to the story for me. I’ve been a fan of Banner’s books for awhile now and this one was similar in terms of style to The Twilight Wife for me so definitely grab this if you liked that one!
While this was definitely full of intrigue and suspense it was on the lighter side of the suspense world, nothing too dark or disturbing but still really juicy and entertaining. The drama was high here and at times a bit over the top, but I love that style and found it added to the story for me. I’ve been a fan of Banner’s books for awhile now and this one was similar in terms of style to The Twilight Wife for me so definitely grab this if you liked that one!
August 12, 2019
Dazzling and at times frighteningly real, this eloquently written domestic suspense is a deceptive hall of mirrors experience.
After beginning with a bang, the tension continues to ramp up until the reader, like Elise, is questioning everything. Elise Watters has the perfect life. She returns to her perfect home to celebrate her first wedding anniversary with her perfect husband, only to have her world come crashing down. And then she finds something from her deceased mother that makes her question everything. But is she being paranoid, or should she really trust no one?
A thrilling, fast-paced read, The Poison Garden is compelling and thoroughly enjoyable.
After beginning with a bang, the tension continues to ramp up until the reader, like Elise, is questioning everything. Elise Watters has the perfect life. She returns to her perfect home to celebrate her first wedding anniversary with her perfect husband, only to have her world come crashing down. And then she finds something from her deceased mother that makes her question everything. But is she being paranoid, or should she really trust no one?
A thrilling, fast-paced read, The Poison Garden is compelling and thoroughly enjoyable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 860 reviews