Death and Daisies

A Magic Garden Mystery #2

by Amanda Flower

Florist Fiona Knox left behind her gloomy life for a magical garden in Scotland, but a murder on her shop's opening day brings threatening storm clouds.

Fiona Knox thought she was pulling her life back together when she inherited her godfather's cottage in Duncreigan, Scotland--complete with a magical walled garden. But the erstwhile Tennessee flower shop owner promptly found herself puddle boot-deep in danger when she found a dead body among the blossoms. One police investigation later (made a trifle less unpleasant by the presence of handsome Chief Inspector Neil Craig), and Fiona's life is getting back on track. Her sister Isla has just moved in with her, and the grand opening of her new venture, the Climbing Rose Flower Shop in Aberdeenshire, is imminent.

But dark clouds are gathering to douse Fiona's newly sunny outlook. First, imperious parish minister Quaid MacCullen makes it undeniably clear that he would be happy to send Fiona back to Tennessee. Then, a horrific lightning storm threatens to tear apart the elderly cottage and sends Fi and Isla cowering under their beds. The storm passes, as storms do, and Fi's heart flutters when Chief Inspector Craig texts her to make sure she's all right. But then, Fi and Craig are called away from the Climbing Rose's opening soiree when Kipling, the tiny village's weak-kneed volunteer police chief, finds a dead body on the beach.

The body proves difficult to identify, but Kipling is certain it's that of the parish minister. Which makes Fiona, MacCullen's new nemesis, a suspect. Also, Isla has been behaving strangely...did she do something unspeakable to protect her sister? The last thing Fiona wanted to do was play detective again. But now, the rosy future she'd envisioned is going to seed, and if she and Craig can't clear her name, her idyllic life will wilt away.

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Cozy, Fiction, Magic, Paranormal, Scotland

321 pages, Paperback

First published November 13, 2018

About the author

Amanda 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.

Reviews

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death and Daisies by Amanda Flower is the second book in the cozy A Magic Garden Mystery series. Each book of this cozy mystery series has it’s own mystery to be solved within the book so they could be read as a standalone if choosing to do so. However the characters personal stories do carry over from book to book so reading in order is always best.

Readers were introduced to Fiona Knox in the first book of the series when she got a call from a lawyer in Scotland informing her that her godfather had passed and she would be inheriting his estate. Within days of receiving the call Fiona’s 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 and claim her inheritance.

Now Fiona feels like she’s getting her life back on track in Duncreigan, Scotland becoming the caretaker of her godfather’s magical garden and cottage and opening her own shop. However, the parish minister Quaid MacCullen is not a fan of Fiona and the magical garden she’s inherited and makes that fact well known so when he’s found murdered Fiona ends up a suspect and needing to clear her name.

While I haven’t been able to catch up with all of Amanda Flower’s cozy mysteries I have however really enjoyed the ones that I have read and this was no exception. This series takes readers to Scotland and mixes in a touch of magic making it a unique read but along with likable characters and a solid mystery it’s definitely a series I’ll keep coming back to to see what else is in store.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amanda Flower has quickly become one of my favorite cozy mystery writers. Her books have a magical quality, great characters and creative plots.

Death and Daisies is the second book in her new Magic Garden Mystery series. Fiona Knox is the caretaker of a magical garden. She is still trying to wrap her head around the fact she inherited the cottage and garden in Duncreigan, Scotland from her godfather. She has since opened a floral shop in a nearby village. Climbing Rose Floral Shop is named after a magical rose that grows in her walled garden. She's the 12th keeper entrusted to upkeep the garden and protect the rose. A local minister hates the garden and threatens Fiona, leaving her a cryptic note that the garden will bring evil. As if threats can't possibly be enough to put a damper on her shop's grand opening, the minister is found dead. Some villagers blame her for the death....Can Fiona find out the truth before everyone starts believing there is something sinister about her and the magical garden?

I love this series! It has the same wonderful, magical feel as the author's Magical Bookshop series! The location is awesome...who wouldn't love to inherit a cottage and walled garden in Scotland? The characters are well-developed and have that village quirkiness about them. The plot of this newest book is interesting and the mystery moves along at a nice pace with plenty of suspects, investigation and twists. There is just the right touch of the supernatural/magical to sparkle up the story....never over-done, just right.

While it isn't necessary to read the books in order, to get the full character and location background and development it might be best to read book one (Flowers and Foul Play) before jumping into Death and Daisies. But, a reader could jump in at this second book and still totally enjoy the story!

All in all, this is an entertaining and fun cozy to read. I'm definitely in line awaiting the next book!

**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death and Daisies is the second book in the Magic Garden Mystery series and is a continuation of the story of Fiona Knox's new life in Bellewick, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. She inherited her godfather, Ian MacCallister's cottage, Duncreigan, along with a walled garden that is magical. If the assigned keeper of the garden dies, so does the garden. When Fiona went to the cottage in the first book, the garden, which had died when Ian died, came back to life. Fiona made the move to Scotland from Nashville after her fiance' left her for the cake decorator for their wedding. She is using her Uncle Ian's money that he left her to open the Climbing Rose Flower Shop. Now, her younger sister, Isla, a recent college graduate, is staying with her while she is considers her next move and is helping Fiona out in the flower shop.
Minister Quaid MacCullen of the Presbyterian church doesn't like the MacCallister family, including Duncreigan, the magical garden and Fiona. In fact, he ran her off as she tried to attend church. When he was mysteriously murdered, Fiona gets involved in trying to find his killer to prove that she wasn't responsible. Everyone in the small village knows how the minister felt about the Fiona and her home.
Chief Inspector Neil Craig, whom we met in the first book, is quite fond of Fiona and encourages her to stay out of the investigation to remain safe. But for different reasons, she can't stay out of it.
Things heat up when she gets threatening notes and verbal threats. There is a cast of possible suspects to chose from-locals who have been in trouble before and some underlying tension among church members. This is a good addition to the series with returning characters and an action packed plot filled with danger, suspense, a little romance and some surprise in store for Fiona.
I received a complimentary ARC from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.

[Linda Langford · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked several of the same things in this second book of the Magic Garden series—the mystical garden, the animal characters, and several secondary characters, Hamish, Presha, and Raj—that I enjoyed in book one. In this story, although Fiona should be enjoying the opening of her florist shop, Climbing Rose, instead she’s pulled into a murder involving a prominent citizen in the Scottish village, who had made it clear he didn’t like her or her ancestors before her. There are several suspects to sort through their relationships with the deceased, however, the killer reveal didn’t really surprise me. There aren’t near as many magical garden scenes, and I felt the tone of the plot was overall dreary. Fi’s sister, Isla, has come to stay with her and they bicker constantly. On a positive note, the author continues her great world building and characterization and seems to set the stage for more mystical revelations in the third story. I recommend reading the first book before you read this one or you’ll be lost as to what’s going on.

I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books. Thank you.

[Sue Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coming to Duncreigan, Scotland, to accept her inheritance to accept her inheritance gave Fiona Knox a chance to repair the wounds of her failed engagement and closing of her flower shop. Little did she know the inheritance included a magical garden. In the second book of the series, her sister, Isla, has come to join her and help her open a new flower shop. But before the grand opening, the minister who is unhappy with her arrival is found dead and Fiona a suspect, once again. Fast-paced and charming, the story has it all for me. Intriguing characters, red herrings, touch of the supernatural, and a heroine worth rooting for. You know the book is good when your first thought after finishing it is how long until the next one. HIGHLY recommended.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.

[LORI CASWELL · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dollycas’s Thoughts

Fiona Knox is super excited to be opening her new flower shop, the Climbing Rose with her sister Isla by her side. But everyone is not happy about Fiona’s shop or her continuing to stay in the cottage she inherited from her godfather. Parish Minister Quaid MacCullen has gotten up close and personal to warn Fiona she doesn’t belong in Duncreigan, Scotland tending a garden or opening a flower shop.

The sisters face a terrible lightning storm that rocks their little cottage mightily but when the storm passes everything seems okay until they learn a dead body has been found on the beach. Kipling, the volunteer police chief believes the body is none other but the parish minister who was threatening Fiona. So again she is up to her ears in another police investigation with handsome Chief Inspector Neil Craig, But Isla is acting strange. Could she be involved in the minister’s death or know someone who is?

______

I loved the first book in this series and don’t know why it took me so long to get to this one.

I really enjoy the Scottish setting and the magical garden. This time the garden took a little bit of a backseat as Fiona worked hard to open her new flower shop. There were a couple interesting garden scenes though, I just wish there were more as Fiona continues to learn her caretaker status and all the magical mysteries the garden holds.

The character development continues with the inclusion of Fiona’s sister Isla. Typical sibling rivalry erupts as the sisters find their way as Isla plans to stay in Scotland. With the opening of her shop, the sisters meet many more residents Aberdeenshire and previous relationships continue to grow. With this character increase the suspect options expand as well. The author takes her time introducing each character too, so they are all very easy to keep straight.

The mystery was very well-plotted with twists, turns, secrets, and misdirection. While the main mystery is wrapped up well there are several strings that carry over into the next book. One that could really turn Fiona’s life upside down.

Death and Daisies is a fine addition to this series. I was entertained the entire way. Daisies are my favorite flower and I love seeing fields of them. This story gave me a wonderful virtual view.

I am super excited to read Mums and Mayhem. It will be released on July 7, 2020.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book of the Magical Garden series continues in the vein as the first one. This one did not disappoint.
Fiona has been joined in Scotland by her sister, Isla and Fiona is opening a Flower shop in the town. On opening day the parish minister Quaid MacCullen is found dead on the seacoast. As he made it very clear he didn't like Fiona, she is a suspect in his death. She began to seek an answer for his death. Isla's antics add humor and much to the story.
Fiona's Scottish Fold cat, Ivanhoe has a part as he becomes a shop cat. Fiona's life is not going as well as the residents of the town seem to be avoiding her flower store. What will happen? I highly recommend this book and series.

Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in what I am finding to be a delightful series so far. On this return trip to Duncreigan, Scotland we are treated to a visit with all the same characters that made the first book in the series so enjoyable. Fiona is opening her flower shop and her sister Isla has come to stay. I have to say that I haven't quite warmed up to Isla yet, but it appears that she will be a returning character. I love the Scottish setting and the mystical garden in this book. While Fiona didn't spend as much time in the garden in this book, there are still elements. Without much guidance from her godfather Ian, Fiona is struggling to learn how to use the magic in the garden to help the people of the village as well as to protect the garden. On top of that, she is once again as the center of danger as she tries to solve the murder of the village minister (who is not a fan of Fiona's). There are plenty of suspects as Fiona is faced with mystery, lies and secrets, some which will impact her personally. The murder mystery is resolved nicely and once the twists and turns are straightened out, the suspect is believable.

I am such a fan of this author, I can't imagine not coming back to see what she has planned for Fiona in the rest of the series.

I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.

[PugMom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This newest book in the Magic Garden Mystery series is a delightful in so many ways! I enjoy getting to know the characters, from the previous book and also new ones, and the setting is not only magical but the author's descriptions make you feel like you are there.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death and Daisies by Amanda Flowers returns us to Bellewick, Scotland. Fiona Knox has been busy getting her new flower shop, Climbing Rose Flower Shop ready to open with the aid of her sister, Isla. Isla showed up at the beginning of the summer after she graduated from college and has yet to return home. She has been acting cagey recently and spending a great deal of time texting. The day before the grand opening, Minister Quaid MacCullen stops in and once again expresses his dislike for Fiona. He recently barred Fiona from attending church by blocking the door and stating he did not want her corrupting the villagers (what a charmer). That night a terrible storm hits the area and thankfully blows back out to sea by morning. Fiona’s shop opening is a success until Kipling, the villages volunteer police chief, stumbles in crying murder and then promptly faints. Kipling stumbled upon the reverend’s body on the beach. Chief Inspector Neil Craig rushes away to secure the scene and a curious Fiona is not far behind him. It is well known in the village that MacCullen disliked Fiona which puts her at the top of the suspect list. Fiona has just started to set down roots and has no intention of letting her new life go to seed. The only way to stop the speculation is to sniff out the killer with a little help from the magical garden at Duncreigan.

While Death and Daisies is the second book in A Magic Garden Mystery series, it can be read alone. Everything a reader needs to know is included in this tale. I thought the book was well-written with steady pacing throughout. Amanda Flower has an engaging, conversational writing style that drew me into the story and it kept my attention until the very last page. I like the characters and they are nicely developed. We are still getting to know Fiona (it is only the second book), and she learns some new information about herself in Death and Daisies. Hamish is such a sweetie and we learned something new about him that makes him even more endearing. I am not a fan of Fiona’s sister, Isla. I am hoping we will see her mature and become less self-centered. The village sounds quaint with friendly residents except for the minister. The murder of Reverend Quaid MacCullen is expected since he is such a nasty character. There are several suspects, misdirection and good clues. I wish the mystery had been more of a challenge. However, I still enjoyed reading this beguiling narrative (I knew who now I wanted to know why). I especially enjoy the addition of the magic from the garden, the stone and the fox. It enhances the overall story as well as the mystery. I like that new details are revealed in each book. Carver Finley, a historian, has taken an interest in the garden, and I believe he will be a formidable foe for Fiona. Death and Daisies is an enchanting cozy mystery with a charming village, friendly characters, a hint of romance, adorable little critters, magical assistance, and a murder mystery.

[Kimberlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

As much as I loved "Flowers and Foul Play" (book 1 in the series) by Amanda Flower, I knew I would also enjoy "Death and Daisies", the second book. The story is set in Scotland, and the book is filled with wonderful descriptions of the delightful small town, surrounding countryside, and sea/cliff/dock areas. The main characters, as well as the key minor ones, are realistically drawn and likable. In this installment, we meet Fiona's sister and learn more about Hamish, Kipling, Raj, and Presha. The animals are also wonderful: There is Duncan the delightful tame squirrel, a mysterious fox who enjoys visiting the garden at Fiona's cottage, and Fiona's newly acquired cat.

The mystery itself was well-plotted and complex, with plenty of suspects, clues, and red herrings. Trying to solve the mystery along with Fiona was even more fun this time around, as I already knew a bit about some of the possible suspects. Of course, new characters (and motives) were introduced as well, further complicating matters (in a good way).

Perhaps what made this story stand out most for me was the inclusion of the magical element. I have read paranormal cozies before, typically featuring witch/vampire characters. I would consider this a "magical realism cozy", which is a different thing altogether. I loved the magical element of the garden, which played a role in the story without turning the book into a paranormal mystery. I look forward to future installments, in which Fiona will (hopefully) learn more about the garden and use what she learns to help others. (This time around, she was too busy with opening her new flower shop and solving a murder to learn much about the garden.)

I'm very much looking forward to future installments, and seeing how Fiona uses her flower shop to incorporate her garden's magic into the lives of the townsfolk.

[Andree · Rating 2 out of 5]

This continues to be less good than the magical bookshop series. I do like the central couple of the series (although that romantic declaration was fairly awkward, but kinda worked). I also continue to like the idea of the magical garden. This is starting to suffer from a really high proportion of murderers in a really small town. Also, the protagonist's sister is irritating as all get-out, and apparently sticking around indefinitely. Which is a downer. She's clearly supposed free-spirited and impulsive in an endearing way, but I really just find her irritating, and wish she did not exist, or if she did that she was a minor character that cropped up in passing. She certainly doesn't feel necessary.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another exciting adventure with Fiona in Scotland! She’s settled into her new home and opened a flower shop. I liked the addition of her sister to the cast of characters. While I did horrible at figuring out the murderer (exciting confrontation) I did do good at figuring out some of the other plot threads (including one I suspected in the first book). These books are fun, easy to read and have good characters and a quirky, small Scottish town setting. Lots of fun and I’m looking forward to see what happens next. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest reveiw, all opinions are my own. #readforkimberly

[Lisa Ks Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read in the Magic Garden Mysteries. DEATH AND DAISIES in the second in the series. Author Amanda Flower did a wonderful job seeing that first time readers wouldn’t be lost. I was able to follow a long with the story and characters just find.

Speaking of characters, the eclectic group of town folks in this story are so much fun to read. I can imagine hanging out in the local haunts with these people and having the best of times.

DEATH AND DASIES was a well written mystery, which is to be expected from this author. She has a way with telling a tale that will capture the reader within her writing, causing them to lose all track of time. There were however parts of this book that just didn’t grab me in the way I would have hoped. But the setting and other aspects of the story were more than enough to keep me reading until the end.

[Carole Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at The Power of Words: https://bit.ly/2EYRhLp

Death and Daisies is a wonderful cozy mystery, book #2 in an equally wonderful series by the talented Amanda Flower. After reading the previous story, Flowers and Foul Play (click on title to see my review), this series has become a “must read” for me. Setting, characterization, and storyline all combine in a flowing narrative that is difficult to put down. Amanda Flower has also written other series that I hope to eventually read.

A good foundational background is provided so that Death and Daisies can stand alone, but turning to the first page feels like coming home to a beloved village and its sometimes quirky characters. Scotland … what can I say but that there’s just something special about Scotland and its people. For Fiona Knox, new business owner of the Climbing Rose Flower Shop in Aberdeenshire, it’s all about friends like Raj and his sister Presha, Hamish MacGregor, and Chief Inspector Neil Craig. I adore the slowly simmering romance between Fiona and Neil, subtle and very well done This story also brings Fiona’s sister, Isla, into the mix, creating even more drama.

The mystery itself is well crafted and believable, but best of all is the rich characterization. Rather than taking second place to the mystery, character development is strong and foundational to the storyline, which elevates this story even more. I also loved how secondary characters and suspects alike are introduced one at a time so as not to be confusing, and this gives readers time to get to know them. Paranormal elements involving the magic garden, of which Fiona is now the caretaker, aren’t featured as prominently as in the previous book, yet this garden is at the heart of everything.

Death and Daisies is an engrossing story, a clean read, and I recommend it highly. “Best of the best” for me. May this series continue for a long time!

I received a copy of this book through the Review Crew. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[JoAn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death and Daisies by Amanda Flower allowed me to visit Scotland again and I enjoyed every minute of the mystery. I'm already looking forward to the next one in the series.

Fiona is now settled into her home at Duncreigan and has decided to open a florist shop in town, The Climbing Rose. The magic garden seems to be thriving under Hamish and Fiona's tender care. The red fox who visits Fiona in the garden is a mystery and yet maybe not as he has Ian's, her godfather, blue eyes. I do believe that he is there to watch over Fiona as she learns her new role as ths garden's guardian. Readers are introduced to Isla, Fiona's younger sister, in this book. She has recently graduated from college and come to live with her for the summer.

Ms. Flower has penned a quickly paced plot with many likable characters that are developing well in this second book. There were several threads in this story regarding romance, drugs, an abusive marriage as well as the murder mystery that are all weaved into the story of the murder of the local minister. Yet I never felt lost or confused as they all tied into the main plot. I was hooked from the first chapter and couldn't put it down until I finished it.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second installment of the Magic Garden series. Fiona Knox's flower shop is ready for its grand opening and her sister has come to spend the summer after her college graduation. Fiona has inherited the Dunheigan estate and accompanying magical garden from her late godfather Ian. The local minister made no secret of his intense dislike for her family so when he is found dead, Fiona finds herself a possible murder suspect.

I hadn't read the first book in the series but felt I had enough of the backstory to catch up. Amanda Flowers is a talented writer and painted a very detailed picture of a charming Scottish village, flower shop and estate grounds. However, the book fell short for me. It started out slowly and I really never connected with Fiona, most of the other characters or her budding romance. I would have liked to have read less about the shopkeepers and more about the magical garden.

Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.

[Sue Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coming to Duncreigan, Scotland, to accept her inheritance to accept her inheritance gave Fiona Knox a chance to repair the wounds of her failed engagement and closing of her flower shop. Little did she know the inheritance included a magical garden. In the second book of the series, her sister, Isla, has come to join her and help her open a new flower shop. But before the grand opening, the minister who is unhappy with her arrival is found dead and Fiona a suspect, once again.

Fast-paced and charming, the story has it all for me. Intriguing characters, red herrings, touch of the supernatural, and a heroine worth rooting for. You know the book is good when your first thought after finishing it is how long until the next one. HIGHLY recommended.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fiona Knox is settling into life in Scotland, even opening The Climbing Rose Flower Shop in Aberdeenshire.

Things seem to be looking up, as she lives in her inherited cottage with it's magical garden, in Duncregian. But when the local minister, Quaid MacCullen, lets her knows she's not welcome at his church, or his town, things turn a little dark. And then MacCullen is found dead. Chief Inspector Neil Craig doesn't think Fiona did the deed, but he doesn't want her helping in the investigation, either.

Thus begins an investigation that Fiona can't help getting involved in, one that puts her in grave danger.

Amanda Flower is one of my favorite authors, and I love this series. Maybe it's because I want to be her, inheriting a cottage in Scotland and opening a flower shop while being romanced by a handsome policeman. I enjoy the way Ms. Flower sets the stage for a mystery, and the way she describes village life and the inhabitants of Aberdeensire.

I followed the clues and figured the mystery. But I did enjoy the tale, and the addition of Fiona's sister, Isla. She added tension to the book, and a great deal of flavor.

Oh, and there was the ending, that left me thirsting for more in the series. I hope the next one is coming soon.

I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Liz Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely lovely read. So endearing, intriguing, and captivating.

Craig and Fi forever 🥹🥹So many moments between them had me blushing. It was just the sweetest and I cannot wait to see their relationship on full display in the 3rd book!!

Also, a moment for Kipling. 👏 👏

[Jessica Wilhoite · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fiona has opened her flower shop in Scotland, her sister is visiting from the states, and the village minister is dead set on her not being a part of his village. Of course when the monster ends up the victim of murder, Fiona is worried she will be at the top of the suspect list since the village knew all about her run-ins with the minister.

She is out to solve the case and it isn't as easy as She thought as not and more suspects come to light. Who knew a small village minister could make so many enemies?

I really enjoyed this book. The second in a cozy series is always interesting to me because you get to see where the characters are headed, whereas in the first book we are just introduced to them.

There are a lot of secrets in this book involving Uncle Ian, Fiona's parents, her sister, Isla, and a lot of people in Bellewick. I'm also super excited to see where Fiona and Inspector Craig's relationship will go as the series continues.

I can't wait for book #3! 4.8 stars.

I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley. #netgalley #deathanddaisies #amandaflower

[Diane Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death and Daisies is the perfect blend of mystery, romance and paranormal with believable characters you wish you could befriend in real life.

Fiona has lived in Scotland for two months after inheriting her godfather’s house and magic garden. Why didn’t her godfather explain how to help people using the century old menhir and climbing rose in her garden that is the source of the magic? The rules are vague:
1. Visit the garden as much as possible to cement your connection to it.
2. Care for the garden like any other garden.
3. Touch the stone menhir to learn what the garden wants you to know. However, you may see things you don’t want to know.

Fiona’s sister, Isla, visits to help open Fiona’s flower shop. The day before the grand opening, the local minister threatens Fiona in person. The next morning Fiona finds a hostile note from the minister stuck in her door. During the grand opening, the handsome Chief Inspector Neil finds the note. When the minister is found murdered, suspicion falls on Fiona so she decides to find the killer to clear her name. Good thing her best friend in town, Cally, is also a lawyer.

It is hard to explain why I like the characters so much in this book. Perhaps it is the fact that one has a red squirrel as a pet who sits on his shoulder. Or the old seaman who Fiona calls Popeye in her mind because she has forgotten his name. Everyone in the village has strange quirks that make them memorable. Realistically, it may be the difficult but enviable choice that Fiona has between two burly Scotsmen as potential beaus. As Isla tells Fiona, “You will have your own Scottish love story a la Outlander without the hassle of time travel.”

Though Death and Daisies is the second entry in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. It is highly recommended for cozy readers looking for authentic characters, an unusual setting and a good mystery. 4 stars!

Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fiona Knox owns a flower shop in Scotland, she also owns a “charming moorland cottage” that fronts a walled garden in the back. A magic walled garden, that is. Inherited from her godfather, along with the title of “keeper” and the duty to maintain both its magic and its secrets.
Her younger sister, Isla, from their homeland in Nashville, Tennessee, is over for a last fun summer “before adulthood” and is helping run The Climbing Rose.
There is a long lineage around the garden, based on a menhir with an ancient rose climbing up and around it. A promise made and handed down through the centuries, and now tended to by Fiona.
A storm on the very near horizon makes them decide to close up shop and head home to safety. Come the following afternoon, there is a body found. The local minister (and protagonist to Fiona), has washed ashore, but it is soon evident he didn’t drown at sea. Just 2 months into her residency with as many murders closely associated. The roots spread out, popping up several suspects and threats. Going against the requests of her blooming romance partner, Chief Craig, to stay out of his investigation, Fiona finds herself digging where she shouldn’t and nearly ends in her own grave. A most unlikely hero saves her and life goes on. Visions, foxes, time capsules, and revelations all blend in for a cozy stroll.
A bit overwritten at first, but once introductions were made and scenes set, things got more relaxed and fun. There were a couple of snafu’s: The two “steaming plates of chicken Marsala” being brought from the kitchen twice (page 92 and again on 100) and did I miss something? Who was the accomplice?

*See if you can find the Harry Potter Great Hall scene.

[Cozybooklady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death and Daisies is the second book in this series by Amanda Flower.
I really enjoyed this book much more than the first.
Fiona is settling into her new life and is preparing for the opening of her flower shop.
Her sister Isla is visiting and she definitely adds a bit of excitement to the story.
When snubbed by the local minister, Fiona is outraged, not understanding why he is so against her.
When murder hits the small town, Fiona ad's questions, putting her in harm's way.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this intriguing cozy mystery. Each one brings their own unique style to the story, making it an engaging story from beginning to end.
I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series, and we are still in Scotland and with Fiona, and now her sister is also here.
Wow, a lot of bombshells that I never saw coming, and they made this book a compelling page-turner.
Hamish is still here and you want to hug the man, and who wouldn’t want to see his pet Duncan, picturing his little cup! Loved it!
Of course, there is another murder, and sadly I wasn’t unhappy as to who the victim was, but is Fiona going to be a suspect again?
Loved how this book moved along, and we walk in Fiona’s shoes, so be careful, not everyone is how they appear.
I for one want more, a very enjoyable cozy read!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Crooked Lane Books, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second in the Magic Garden Mysteries, this captivating novel can be read as a standalone or after the first. This series will delight fans of Amanda Flowers’ other series and Bailey Cates’ Enchanted Garden Mysteries. The characters are very likable and well-defined, the mystery is a complex challenge to solve, and the location in Scotland sets the stage for long-ago past and present to meet.

Fiona Knox, from Tennessee, recently inherited Duncreigan from her godfather, Ian MacCallister, in Scotland. She is the twelfth Keeper of the Garden in which there is a hidden ancient standing stone and surrounding climbing yellow rose. It is a magical healing garden that has been in Ian’s family for about 300 years. To Minister Quaid MacCullen, the magical garden, and Fiona’s presence, and her new business, The Climbing Rose Flower Shop, are an affront. He is pastor at St. Thomas, which was also Ian’s church. He preaches against Fiona and Duncreigan from the pulpit. When she tried to attend a Sunday service, he refused to admit her.

Only days later, after a brutal storm, MacCullen was found dead on the beach, apparently a drowning victim. It was no ordinary drowning; the ME notes that the water in his lungs is fresh rather than ocean. Fiona realizes that, for the second time in the two months she has been in Scotland, she is a murder suspect. She doesn’t recognize the attraction Chief Inspector Neil Craig clearly has for her. Despite her new shop opening and the challenges in her relationship with her sister Isla, Fiona feels she has to solve another murder to clear herself of the charges.

I enjoyed meeting Fiona and Isla and seeing Fi learning to accept Isla as an adult with her own needs and talents. They deeply love and want the best for each other. Close friends Raj and his twin sister Presha have been in Scotland for forty years and extended a warm welcome to Fiona. By the time the novel had ended, I felt that I had more than a passing acquaintance with Ian MacCallister even though deceased. Overall, I really liked Fiona, Isla, and all the people of Bellewick. Most were shown in a positive way. Hamish sounds like a man after my own heart! A home filled with thousands of books sounds like the perfect place! I have empathy for his lack of desire for going into town.

The setting in Scotland is breathtaking! The magic garden, which will only grow and flourish when there is a Keeper of the Garden, sounds incredible. The colors, butterflies, birds, and the mysterious fox who enjoy the garden would make it a restful place. The mystery has unexpected twists and turns, with a surprise for Fiona about … no, I won’t give it away! While the Minister had few real friends, most people respected his position and knew he wanted the best for them. It wasn’t as easy to discover who had a motive other than dislike that fueled the murder. There were at least a couple folks who seemed to be good suspects but were good red herrings. I was surprised to find out the real motive behind the murder yet not surprised at the killer, someone I considered more than once. I highly recommend Death and Daisies to all who appreciate a well-written cozy mystery set in Scotland, with a secret garden, special flower shop, a Scottish fold cat, and characters that grab hold of one’s heart and doesn’t let go.

From a grateful heart: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher, and this is my honest review.

[Jessica Fischer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I seriously love this series. In our return to Aberdeenshire, Fiona Knox is busy preparing to open her new flower shop. When the parish minister is found dead, she's at the top of the suspect list. Thankfully she has Chief Inspector Neil Craig on her side, so it's only a matter of following the clues to the real killer to clear her name.

One of my favorite aspects of this series is the relationships. In this book, Fiona's sister Isla is staying with her. This comes with tons of sisterly love and drama (because what are sisters without both?) Isla is obviously keeping secrets, which worries Fiona, but when the truth comes out it's nothing like she was expecting. The interactions between the sisters are very realistic and help flesh out Fiona's character very well.

There's also the budding relationship with the Chief Inspector. I've enjoyed this set-up since the first book and was greatly looking forward to seeing how it played out here. I wasn't disappointed. What I like is that it isn't being rushed so much that it feels insincere or fake. There's even been some doubt and uncertainty thrown in that eventually leads to Neil finally coming out and admitting his feelings to Fiona once and for all.

It seems I always comment on the town and relationships first in my reviews, probably because that's my favorite part of reading cozies. Despite being cozy "mysteries", for me personally the mystery part is secondary. Not that I don't enjoy that aspect (this is my favorite style of book to read after all), I just really enjoy the overall atmosphere of the books first and foremost. That being said, for this book the mystery was very well done. I was kept guessing until nearly the end, and the clues and sleuthing were woven in seamlessly.

Fiona also gets a bit of a shock on the family side of things in this book, which for me was definitely unexpected. I hope this leads to further in depth info on the magical garden (which we didn't see much of this time around) in future books.

Overall I greatly enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next one.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the publisher. All opinions stated are my own.

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could hardly put this book down! There were so many things happening in this story, more secrets revealed, more love interests--and I didn't guess the killer!

Fiona's sister Isla was staying with her in Scotland at least for the summer, since she was just out of college and said she wanted to live a little before having to actually be a grown-up. When the village minister who made no secret of how he hated Fiona and her family, was murdered, Fi was worried she'd be blamed for this, since the whole village had seen him turn her away from the church service where her uncle Ian used to go. As before, Fi felt compelled to investigate, but Chief Inspector Craig had to admit she was helpful at times. I really liked the other thing he ended up admitting!

I definitely liked Isla. Even though at first she seemed a little flaky, she had a good head on her shoulders and really loved her big sister a lot. Isla also found a love interest--it was interesting to see who it was (you'll have to have read the first book to know more about this person, but if you didn't, you won't be lost). I think I may have enjoyed this book even more than the first one. It's definitely an awesome series!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fiona is getting her life back together after inheriting her uncle flower shop, when her sister comes from Tennessee to live with her. That along with the local minister hating her is making her life harder. When the minister is murdered she is afraid she will be blamed. She also has the beginnings of a romance with the local chief inspector.

[Moondance · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I'm going to drop it!"

Fiona's sister, Isla, has come to Scotland to help Fiona open her flower shop. The town's minister has taken an extreme dislike to Fiona. After several very public confrontations, the minister is found murdered and once again Fiona could be a suspect.

This is such a delightful series! I love the setting of a small Scottish town and Fiona's cottage with the magic garden. I enjoy the fact that Fiona is the Keeper of the garden and its unusual standing stone that she can connect with.

I'm glad the relationship dance with Chief Inspector Craig has reached a conclusive point. Fiona is not quite as perceptive as she thinks!

Isla was a nice addition to the story. I liked getting to know more about Fiona's family and a few secrets as well. I'm interested in how Isla will fit in with the town.

The various animals make me smile. Ivanhoe is a great cat! Hamish's squirrel,Duncan never ceases to make me smile.

The mystery was very well done even though I had my suspicions early on. I just didn't have all the facts until later in the book.

The description of the flowers make me wish I was a better gardener. I love plants and flowers but did not inherit the green thumb that my parents had. Perhaps some day...

This is an excellent series and I look forward to the next book.