What do you think?
Rate this book
Gus Monet #2
Poison Lilies
In Katie Tallo's thrilling follow-up to the international bestseller Dark August, Gus Monet is swept into the orbit of a prominent, wealthy family whose privilege is founded on a dangerous web of secrets they're desperate to keep hidden
After moving back to her hometown and solving her mother's murder, August (Gus) Monet thought she was done. Settled. Content for the first time in her life.
Cue hard reset number whatever.
She made a mistake she couldn't undo, so Gus cut and run. Packed all her things in the dead of night and took off. Now somewhat settled into The Ambassador, an art-deco apartment building with cheap rent in one of Ottawa's oldest neighborhoods, Gus has found the perfect place for a fresh start—or a good place to hide.
Gus also finds friendship in Poppy Honeywell, her reclusive neighbor perpetually wrapped in a pink kimono like an aging Old Hollywood starlet. She's also a descendant of the Mutchmores, one of the town's founding families. When a body is found in the pond of a nearby park, her connection to this powerful and wealthy family turns dangerous, possibly deadly. The Mutchmores are hiding something and are willing to do anything to keep their secrets buried.
After moving back to her hometown and solving her mother's murder, August (Gus) Monet thought she was done. Settled. Content for the first time in her life.
Cue hard reset number whatever.
She made a mistake she couldn't undo, so Gus cut and run. Packed all her things in the dead of night and took off. Now somewhat settled into The Ambassador, an art-deco apartment building with cheap rent in one of Ottawa's oldest neighborhoods, Gus has found the perfect place for a fresh start—or a good place to hide.
Gus also finds friendship in Poppy Honeywell, her reclusive neighbor perpetually wrapped in a pink kimono like an aging Old Hollywood starlet. She's also a descendant of the Mutchmores, one of the town's founding families. When a body is found in the pond of a nearby park, her connection to this powerful and wealthy family turns dangerous, possibly deadly. The Mutchmores are hiding something and are willing to do anything to keep their secrets buried.
368 pages, Paperback
First published May 24, 2022
83 people are currently reading
5137 people want to read
About the author
Katie Tallo
5 books341 followersKatie grew up in Ottawa, studied English, Film and Television, married a bartender, and had a daughter. She spent several decades writing screenplays and making films and TV shows. In 2013, Katie won top prize in a UK writing competition. Her publishing debut came in 2020 with the thriller Dark August which became an international bestseller and inspired a trilogy which includes Poison Lilies and Buried Road. She still works in video production as a scriptwriter and director. Katie lives with her husband in the Wellington West neighbourhood of Ottawa.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
July 5, 2022
4.5 stars: Ok, I did not see the ending coming, and I love that about a thriller and suspense tome.
Poison Lilies stars Augusta (Gus) Monet, an independent private investigator who gets herself into a bundle of trouble. She runs from one disaster and lands in Ottawa, at an inexpensive, run-down, art-deco apartment building. She finds residents there as old and stale as the apartment building. She takes to one resident, Poppy Honeywell, a reclusive and eccentric neighbor who dresses like Jean Harlow or Bette Davis.
It is through Poppy that all of Gus’s problems arise. Poppy was spurned by her lover decades ago; she enlists Gus to find out what happened to him. When Gus begins to dig, she learns of Poppy’s powerful family. They don’t want Gus digging into history.
The novel is set in Ottawa and written by a Canadian author. So for those who enjoy good CanLit thrillers, check this one out. There were twists and turns that I did not see coming. The plot is solid and the characters are just the right amount of crazy. Highly recommend.
Poison Lilies stars Augusta (Gus) Monet, an independent private investigator who gets herself into a bundle of trouble. She runs from one disaster and lands in Ottawa, at an inexpensive, run-down, art-deco apartment building. She finds residents there as old and stale as the apartment building. She takes to one resident, Poppy Honeywell, a reclusive and eccentric neighbor who dresses like Jean Harlow or Bette Davis.
It is through Poppy that all of Gus’s problems arise. Poppy was spurned by her lover decades ago; she enlists Gus to find out what happened to him. When Gus begins to dig, she learns of Poppy’s powerful family. They don’t want Gus digging into history.
The novel is set in Ottawa and written by a Canadian author. So for those who enjoy good CanLit thrillers, check this one out. There were twists and turns that I did not see coming. The plot is solid and the characters are just the right amount of crazy. Highly recommend.
May 1, 2022
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: May 24, 2022
Augusta (Gus) Monet has left her hometown in the dust. After solving her mother’s murder, Gus hopes that a new town will help her start over, and she is close to doing just that when she befriends her elderly neighbour, Poppy Honeywell. Poppy recruits Gus to help her solve a mystery from her past- where did her young lover, Leo, disappear to? Did he really just cut and run, abandoning Poppy and their plans to have a life together? As Gus begins to investigate, she finds secrets darker than anything she ever expected, and all roads lead to the richest and most powerful family in Ottawa, a family who is willing to do anything to keep the secrets unearthed.
“Poison Lilies” is the second novel in Katie Tallo’s August Monet series (the first being “Dark August”). An eerie thriller, “Lilies” reminded me of “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”, with its rich family secrets that seek to be unearthed by a spunky and unwanted heroine. Tallo’s novel is filled with all of the twists and turns you’d expect from a suspense novel, with a surprising ending that packs a punch.
I am new to Katie Tallo, and did not read “Dark August”. I can honestly say that it is not necessary to read the first Gus Monet novel in order to enjoy the second. Most of the important character aspects are reiterated in this novel, so even newbies like me won’t get lost along the way.
Gus became an instant hit with me (as did, of course, her lovely dog). That and the Canadian setting and I was pulled in from the first page. Spunky and down on her luck, Gus innocently befriends sweet, endearing Poppy, and her granddaughter Mojo, and it changes her life in every way. Nerdy, lovable Harold gave me strong Spencer Reid (from Criminal Minds) vibes (and that is NOT at all a bad thing). The evil characters in this novel are just who you expect them to be, and the ending brings about a satisfying conclusion.
There are a lot of connected characters in this novel (with incest, secret siblings, May-December love affairs....just what you’d expect from a rich and powerful family), but that didn’t stop me from wanting to see the Mutchmores get everything they deserved. “Poison Lilies” is gripping, taut and entertaining from the get-go. I am now inspired to read “Dark August”, and will leap at the chance to read any future novels Tallo releases to the world.
Expected publication date: May 24, 2022
Augusta (Gus) Monet has left her hometown in the dust. After solving her mother’s murder, Gus hopes that a new town will help her start over, and she is close to doing just that when she befriends her elderly neighbour, Poppy Honeywell. Poppy recruits Gus to help her solve a mystery from her past- where did her young lover, Leo, disappear to? Did he really just cut and run, abandoning Poppy and their plans to have a life together? As Gus begins to investigate, she finds secrets darker than anything she ever expected, and all roads lead to the richest and most powerful family in Ottawa, a family who is willing to do anything to keep the secrets unearthed.
“Poison Lilies” is the second novel in Katie Tallo’s August Monet series (the first being “Dark August”). An eerie thriller, “Lilies” reminded me of “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”, with its rich family secrets that seek to be unearthed by a spunky and unwanted heroine. Tallo’s novel is filled with all of the twists and turns you’d expect from a suspense novel, with a surprising ending that packs a punch.
I am new to Katie Tallo, and did not read “Dark August”. I can honestly say that it is not necessary to read the first Gus Monet novel in order to enjoy the second. Most of the important character aspects are reiterated in this novel, so even newbies like me won’t get lost along the way.
Gus became an instant hit with me (as did, of course, her lovely dog). That and the Canadian setting and I was pulled in from the first page. Spunky and down on her luck, Gus innocently befriends sweet, endearing Poppy, and her granddaughter Mojo, and it changes her life in every way. Nerdy, lovable Harold gave me strong Spencer Reid (from Criminal Minds) vibes (and that is NOT at all a bad thing). The evil characters in this novel are just who you expect them to be, and the ending brings about a satisfying conclusion.
There are a lot of connected characters in this novel (with incest, secret siblings, May-December love affairs....just what you’d expect from a rich and powerful family), but that didn’t stop me from wanting to see the Mutchmores get everything they deserved. “Poison Lilies” is gripping, taut and entertaining from the get-go. I am now inspired to read “Dark August”, and will leap at the chance to read any future novels Tallo releases to the world.
May 20, 2022
Poison Lilies gets 5 stars from me!
I read Dark August in 2020 and was so excited to get my hands on the follow up. Is this a series? Is there more to come? I sure hope so!
The pacing in this book was perfect. And the writing! Katie Tallo is fantastic story teller. I was hooked from the very beginning. It was exciting to be back in the world of Gus and Levi! And can we just talk about the supporting characters!? Howard! What an absolute gem!!
Poison Lilies can be read as a stand alone but I encourage you to pick up Dark August first.
Thanks to Harper Collins Canada for my gifted copy!!
I read Dark August in 2020 and was so excited to get my hands on the follow up. Is this a series? Is there more to come? I sure hope so!
The pacing in this book was perfect. And the writing! Katie Tallo is fantastic story teller. I was hooked from the very beginning. It was exciting to be back in the world of Gus and Levi! And can we just talk about the supporting characters!? Howard! What an absolute gem!!
Poison Lilies can be read as a stand alone but I encourage you to pick up Dark August first.
Thanks to Harper Collins Canada for my gifted copy!!
May 4, 2025
Poison Lilies completely blew me away. I wasn’t a huge fan of the first book, but this one had me hooked from the start. The story was gripping, emotional, and full of heart. I especially loved young Mojo, such a standout character. A fantastic read and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
April 16, 2022
After solving her mother’s murder, Gus Monet thought she could finally relax and be content in her life. This did not last very long. Gus made a big mistake that put her on the run and moving an art-deco apartment in one of Ottawa’s oldest neighborhood. She thought this was a good place to hide out. Gus becomes fast friends with her neighbor Poppy Honeywell who is a descendant of one of the town’s founding families. When a body is found in a nearby park, Gus is finding that her link to Poppy’s family may be putting her in danger.
POISON LILIES is the second book in the Gus Monet series, but it can also be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed it! I will definitely have go back and read the first book in the series, DARK AUGUST. I really found POISON LILIES to be a highly entertaining read. The pacing was great and I loved the main character, she was extremely driven and very easy to root for. The ending was the perfect finishing touch on this excellent book by Katie Tallo. I will certainly look for more Gus Monet series books in the future!
Many thanks to Harper Paperbacks for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
POISON LILIES is the second book in the Gus Monet series, but it can also be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed it! I will definitely have go back and read the first book in the series, DARK AUGUST. I really found POISON LILIES to be a highly entertaining read. The pacing was great and I loved the main character, she was extremely driven and very easy to root for. The ending was the perfect finishing touch on this excellent book by Katie Tallo. I will certainly look for more Gus Monet series books in the future!
Many thanks to Harper Paperbacks for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
April 11, 2022
Wow this book was just incredible! I want to first start out by saying that this is the sequel to Dark August. Poison Lilies, can be read as a standalone, however I would not recommend it as you will fall in love with Gus and want to know every detail about her.
Gus is a multi-dimensional character that will have readers just falling head over heels for her. If Gus was a real person, I could guarantee you we would be best friends. Howard and Mojo were also fun characters that you found yourself really getting to know. Mojo is definitely a bit quirky but aren't we all?
After a one night stand that doesn't exactly go the way Gus had anticipated, she finds herself on the run. Did Gus really just sleep with a serial killer?
This is an easy read that will have your attention from the start. I easily followed along and enjoyed beginning, middle and end.
Katie Tallo, is a true story teller and a creative genius. I would love to see what she comes out with next.
Gus is a multi-dimensional character that will have readers just falling head over heels for her. If Gus was a real person, I could guarantee you we would be best friends. Howard and Mojo were also fun characters that you found yourself really getting to know. Mojo is definitely a bit quirky but aren't we all?
After a one night stand that doesn't exactly go the way Gus had anticipated, she finds herself on the run. Did Gus really just sleep with a serial killer?
This is an easy read that will have your attention from the start. I easily followed along and enjoyed beginning, middle and end.
Katie Tallo, is a true story teller and a creative genius. I would love to see what she comes out with next.
May 23, 2022
What It's About:
Hoping for a fresh start, Gus moves to Ambassador Court, an art-deco apartment building located in one of the oldest neighborhoods in Ottawa. She befriends the reclusive elderly neighbor, Poppy Honeywell and they become close friends. Soon after, a body is discovered in the nearby park and Poppy seeks Gus' help to investigate the matter.
My thoughts: This is the second book in the Gus Monet series and I enjoyed it a tad more than the first book. I love a small-town mystery and this story delivers that. It has all the suspense and twists that make this an intriguing mystery.
Gus' friendship with Poppy was a delight to read! There are a lot of characters in the story since it centers around the Mutchmores family - one of the city's founding families. I loved how different they are but at times found myself struggling to keep up who's who. The plot also did get a bit confusing at times and the ending seems rushed.
Overall, I think this was a great follow up to Dark August. I personally felt this book works better if you've read the first book first. It will help to understand Gus' character and some context better; and there were some spoilers in this book too. So starting this series from the beginning would be better.
Pub. Date: May 24th, 2022
***Thank you HarperCollins Canada for this gifted reading copy. All opinions expressed are my own.***
My thoughts: This is the second book in the Gus Monet series and I enjoyed it a tad more than the first book. I love a small-town mystery and this story delivers that. It has all the suspense and twists that make this an intriguing mystery.
Gus' friendship with Poppy was a delight to read! There are a lot of characters in the story since it centers around the Mutchmores family - one of the city's founding families. I loved how different they are but at times found myself struggling to keep up who's who. The plot also did get a bit confusing at times and the ending seems rushed.
Overall, I think this was a great follow up to Dark August. I personally felt this book works better if you've read the first book first. It will help to understand Gus' character and some context better; and there were some spoilers in this book too. So starting this series from the beginning would be better.
Pub. Date: May 24th, 2022
***Thank you HarperCollins Canada for this gifted reading copy. All opinions expressed are my own.***
August 28, 2022
Dark August, was a Canadian mystery debut book which I really enjoyed so I was excited to see Levi, the adorable dog, make another appearance in this follow up book.
Augusta Monet is such a strong character. You find yourself rooting for her, no matter what trouble she finds herself in. And Howard….. 🥰 I hope he makes another return too, because there are a lot of questions waiting to be answered in the next book.
The ending was excellent and totally unexpected. Fab writing with all the Canadiana. Truly enjoyable.
Augusta Monet is such a strong character. You find yourself rooting for her, no matter what trouble she finds herself in. And Howard….. 🥰 I hope he makes another return too, because there are a lot of questions waiting to be answered in the next book.
The ending was excellent and totally unexpected. Fab writing with all the Canadiana. Truly enjoyable.
June 23, 2022
One word to describe this book: unputdownable. That’s a real word? Damn, I thought I invented it.
The sequel to Dark August is a whole different kind of mystery, yet still steeped in family ties, betrayal, lies, and of course, meeting unlikely characters on the way. The setting is perfect. The muted tones of winter fortify the mystery’s entrancing story, and tell us that something dark and twisted is brewing in the cold. Set against the elegant comfort of the Glebe, the story wraps and winds itself around you, showing you familiar places in a way you’ve them never seen before.
As an Ottawa native, reading this book felt like coming home, despite all of the dark events that transpire. I cannot describe the feeling of seeing all your favourite places, restaurants, parks, embodied and described so lovingly in fiction. Lexington Smokehouse, Pure Kitchen, The Wild Oat, are all amazing and real places that are included in this book; check them out and do your own little book tour!
Gus and her found family of Poppy, Mojo, Howard, and Levi truly warmed my heart. She is an incredible and loving woman, full of fight and quiet dignity, unstoppable and ferocious in her need to find the truth. All of the characters stand out in their own right; Poppy and her old starlet air, searching for a lost love that still haunts her to this day; Mojo and her tireless energy, aided by her trusty research assistant Alma! And Howard, helping Gus along the way without stealing the show from her.
I don’t want to pick favourites but…Levi. The fictionalized version of his namesake shines through the pages like a beacon of comfort, hope, and constant love. He’s always there to cuddle Gus, lick her face after a tough day, give gentle reproach when she does something he disapproves of. He is the best sidekick anyone could have, and the perfect match to Gus’ fiery disposition. What a dog. He will live on forever in these pages .
And what a book. I am so honoured to have read an early version of this book, and I cannot wait to pick up (several) copies when it comes out, and be re-immersed in the crafty words of Katie Tallo, her wily and brilliant imagination, and the world she has created.
Five stars all the way, baby!
The sequel to Dark August is a whole different kind of mystery, yet still steeped in family ties, betrayal, lies, and of course, meeting unlikely characters on the way. The setting is perfect. The muted tones of winter fortify the mystery’s entrancing story, and tell us that something dark and twisted is brewing in the cold. Set against the elegant comfort of the Glebe, the story wraps and winds itself around you, showing you familiar places in a way you’ve them never seen before.
As an Ottawa native, reading this book felt like coming home, despite all of the dark events that transpire. I cannot describe the feeling of seeing all your favourite places, restaurants, parks, embodied and described so lovingly in fiction. Lexington Smokehouse, Pure Kitchen, The Wild Oat, are all amazing and real places that are included in this book; check them out and do your own little book tour!
Gus and her found family of Poppy, Mojo, Howard, and Levi truly warmed my heart. She is an incredible and loving woman, full of fight and quiet dignity, unstoppable and ferocious in her need to find the truth. All of the characters stand out in their own right; Poppy and her old starlet air, searching for a lost love that still haunts her to this day; Mojo and her tireless energy, aided by her trusty research assistant Alma! And Howard, helping Gus along the way without stealing the show from her.
I don’t want to pick favourites but…Levi. The fictionalized version of his namesake shines through the pages like a beacon of comfort, hope, and constant love. He’s always there to cuddle Gus, lick her face after a tough day, give gentle reproach when she does something he disapproves of. He is the best sidekick anyone could have, and the perfect match to Gus’ fiery disposition. What a dog. He will live on forever in these pages .
And what a book. I am so honoured to have read an early version of this book, and I cannot wait to pick up (several) copies when it comes out, and be re-immersed in the crafty words of Katie Tallo, her wily and brilliant imagination, and the world she has created.
Five stars all the way, baby!
May 21, 2022
Poison Lilies by Katie Tallo is a follow–up to Dark August and is highly entertaining.
She looked forward to a happier life and a new start after solving her mother’s murder.
She now lives in an apartment in one of Ottawa’s old neighborhoods, where she naively befriends Poppy, her elderly neighbor. Poppy is an heir to the richest and most powerful family in town. Poppy asks Gus to her solve a mystery for her, she wants Gus to find out what happened to her young lover Leo.
Once Gus starts her investigation the mystery got darker, to the point that Gus feels in danger...!
I enjoyed Dark August when it first came out and the second book didn’t disappoint me.
Poison Lilies can be read as a standalone since the author did a great job revisiting her characters in this book.
The Canadian setting of the story was really pleasing, and I really enjoyed the details. Having a dog in the story made it even more enjoyable for me. The characters are perfectly chosen, especially Gus, I feel like she is my real-life friend.
If you like a well-written mystery with a perfect pace and dark twists, then this is the book for you.
She looked forward to a happier life and a new start after solving her mother’s murder.
She now lives in an apartment in one of Ottawa’s old neighborhoods, where she naively befriends Poppy, her elderly neighbor. Poppy is an heir to the richest and most powerful family in town. Poppy asks Gus to her solve a mystery for her, she wants Gus to find out what happened to her young lover Leo.
Once Gus starts her investigation the mystery got darker, to the point that Gus feels in danger...!
I enjoyed Dark August when it first came out and the second book didn’t disappoint me.
Poison Lilies can be read as a standalone since the author did a great job revisiting her characters in this book.
The Canadian setting of the story was really pleasing, and I really enjoyed the details. Having a dog in the story made it even more enjoyable for me. The characters are perfectly chosen, especially Gus, I feel like she is my real-life friend.
If you like a well-written mystery with a perfect pace and dark twists, then this is the book for you.
June 8, 2022
Book review
Poison Lilies by Katie Tallo
The Question that had me hooked (and apparently Gus too) Who are the babies? This family drama, detective type mystery had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out the answer.
Characters
Poppy- I Love Poppy, she is vulnerable and naive but at the same time wise…. I was invested in seeing her finally move on from her past and her horrible family.
Gus- This character is soo complex, she makes mistakes, has fears and doubts, a past that haunts her, bad luck- like a phoenix she continually rises from the ashes
(Spoiler) I am so glad she has her happy ending in her sights with Bly and Howard
I Did not see the ending coming- always a treat with thrillers- while the clues were there I was distracted by the evidence In front of me and not the bigger picture- rookie mistake when reading detective type books.
I can see/read the growth in Katie Tallo’s writing and enjoyed
this book even More than her previous book Dark August.
Thanks to @harpercollinsca for my
Gifted copy in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed Are My Own
Poison Lilies by Katie Tallo
The Question that had me hooked (and apparently Gus too) Who are the babies? This family drama, detective type mystery had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out the answer.
Characters
Poppy- I Love Poppy, she is vulnerable and naive but at the same time wise…. I was invested in seeing her finally move on from her past and her horrible family.
Gus- This character is soo complex, she makes mistakes, has fears and doubts, a past that haunts her, bad luck- like a phoenix she continually rises from the ashes
(Spoiler) I am so glad she has her happy ending in her sights with Bly and Howard
I Did not see the ending coming- always a treat with thrillers- while the clues were there I was distracted by the evidence In front of me and not the bigger picture- rookie mistake when reading detective type books.
I can see/read the growth in Katie Tallo’s writing and enjoyed
this book even More than her previous book Dark August.
Thanks to @harpercollinsca for my
Gifted copy in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed Are My Own
December 15, 2021
DARK AUGUST was one of my first reads of the year. I loved it and have been watching anxiously for anything new coming from Tallo. I was thrilled to find out she had a new one scheduled for publication in 2022 and even more excited when I snagged an e-ARC of POISON LILIES.
Like DARK AUGUST, POISON LILIES stars Gus Monet and her faithful pup, Levi. Both are likable—the former because she's sympathetic, determined, tough, brave, and authentic; the latter because, well, he's a sweet, loyal old thing. Also like its predecessor, this book has Gus sniffing out a unique, intriguing mystery surrounding a powerful family. Although the plot gets a little confusing at times, the novel remains suspenseful and engrossing throughout. I had a hard time putting it down. Does it get a little far-fetched? Yes, it absolutely does. Do I care? Not at all. The story kept me thoroughly absorbed and entertained. I enjoyed the characters, the mystery, the writing, everything. I did find several of the reveals a bit rushed and confusing, but still, I really liked the book. Here's hoping Tallo revisits these characters—and soon!
Like DARK AUGUST, POISON LILIES stars Gus Monet and her faithful pup, Levi. Both are likable—the former because she's sympathetic, determined, tough, brave, and authentic; the latter because, well, he's a sweet, loyal old thing. Also like its predecessor, this book has Gus sniffing out a unique, intriguing mystery surrounding a powerful family. Although the plot gets a little confusing at times, the novel remains suspenseful and engrossing throughout. I had a hard time putting it down. Does it get a little far-fetched? Yes, it absolutely does. Do I care? Not at all. The story kept me thoroughly absorbed and entertained. I enjoyed the characters, the mystery, the writing, everything. I did find several of the reveals a bit rushed and confusing, but still, I really liked the book. Here's hoping Tallo revisits these characters—and soon!
May 2, 2022
POISON LILIES (Gus Monet # 2) by Katie Tallo is a great thriller! I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Dark August, so I was excited to read the sequel! I was interested to read these two books initially because they’re thrillers set in Canada! I love thrillers and CanLit! This novel is set in Ottawa and follows Augusta (Gus) as she tries to uncover her elderly neighbour’s family secrets.
.
I really enjoyed how this book is divided into three sections and flows in a linear timeline. I loved the mix of ages of the central characters. Gus is in her early twenties and her neighbour is in her eighties. It’s fun to follow along with Gus as she investigates her neighbour’s family while growing up and finding herself. I found this book to be the perfect mix in between a cozy mystery and thriller. I hope there will be a third book in this series!
.
Thank you to Harper Collins Canada for my uncorrected proof!
.
I really enjoyed how this book is divided into three sections and flows in a linear timeline. I loved the mix of ages of the central characters. Gus is in her early twenties and her neighbour is in her eighties. It’s fun to follow along with Gus as she investigates her neighbour’s family while growing up and finding herself. I found this book to be the perfect mix in between a cozy mystery and thriller. I hope there will be a third book in this series!
.
Thank you to Harper Collins Canada for my uncorrected proof!
February 8, 2024
This mystery is set in my hometown, but as much as I was entertained by reading a story that name checks so many familiar locations, this one fell short for me. In fact, I found the setting was often given too much prominence and that the author was too willing to introduce irrelevant tangents to shoehorn in as many local place names as possible. An editor should have helped rein that in.
The narrative also seemed too implausible and convoluted. I had a hard time suspending disbelief - not only at the central mystery situation but also at the protagonists choices. Gus seemed so woefully ill-prepared any time she had to deal with the “baddies” she was investigating. I found myself constantly shaking my head at her choices and frustrated that she kept putting herself needlessly in harm’s way.
The narrative also seemed too implausible and convoluted. I had a hard time suspending disbelief - not only at the central mystery situation but also at the protagonists choices. Gus seemed so woefully ill-prepared any time she had to deal with the “baddies” she was investigating. I found myself constantly shaking my head at her choices and frustrated that she kept putting herself needlessly in harm’s way.
May 25, 2022
This was a book that kept me captivated to the very end! There were so many questions that needed answering, and I was equally invested in all of them.
Gus does something that she shouldn’t have done, so she decides the best thing to do is leave and restart somewhere else. She soon makes friends with Poppy, her elderly neighbour, who’s a member of the Mutchmore family (founding family, super important apparently).
Oh, and then a body shows up in a nearby pond! One thing leads to another, and turns out the Mutchmores have a nasty little secret that Gus needs to uncover. And just like that, we’ve got ourselves a mystery to solve.
Gus is an awesome main character (even if she is determined to get herself into situations where she could very easily be killed). I also loved quirky Mojo and sweet Poppy. Oh, and Howard was such a gem! There were quite a few characters to keep track of throughout the story, but they all had pretty distinctive personalities which helped my poor little forgetful brain.
This is a follow-up to another book with Gus called Dark August. I didn’t read the first book and I definitely felt that I was missing out on a lot. I still knew what was going on, but I missed an entire previous story that was mentioned in this book several times. I also felt like I might’ve lost some of the depth of Gus by not reading the first one. So I would recommend that you read Dark August first!
Thank you to HarperCollins Canada for my gifted copy. This one just came out so make sure you add it to your TBR!
Gus does something that she shouldn’t have done, so she decides the best thing to do is leave and restart somewhere else. She soon makes friends with Poppy, her elderly neighbour, who’s a member of the Mutchmore family (founding family, super important apparently).
Oh, and then a body shows up in a nearby pond! One thing leads to another, and turns out the Mutchmores have a nasty little secret that Gus needs to uncover. And just like that, we’ve got ourselves a mystery to solve.
Gus is an awesome main character (even if she is determined to get herself into situations where she could very easily be killed). I also loved quirky Mojo and sweet Poppy. Oh, and Howard was such a gem! There were quite a few characters to keep track of throughout the story, but they all had pretty distinctive personalities which helped my poor little forgetful brain.
This is a follow-up to another book with Gus called Dark August. I didn’t read the first book and I definitely felt that I was missing out on a lot. I still knew what was going on, but I missed an entire previous story that was mentioned in this book several times. I also felt like I might’ve lost some of the depth of Gus by not reading the first one. So I would recommend that you read Dark August first!
Thank you to HarperCollins Canada for my gifted copy. This one just came out so make sure you add it to your TBR!
May 25, 2022
"It's the feeling she gets when she's about to stir up some sh*t. She likes the feeling."
It's great when you love a book. A bonus to learn there will be a sequel. And the best when the sequel is as good or better when it's built upon the foundation of the first!
This is the case with Katie Tallo's Poison Lilies, the follow-up to last year's debut Dark August!
Thank you to HarperCollins Canada for my gifted ARC for review!
Augusta Monet is back, and she's relocated her life to Ottawa with pup Levi. And as the prologue tells us, that's not the only change to note - Gus is going into labour.
Poison Lilies is divided into first, second and third trimesters, recounting the events that led to the first scene.
Gus befriends her elderly upstairs neighbour Poppy Honeywell, and unwittingly steps into a mystery surrounding Poppy's past and family members. She's just one of the new adds of appealing and intriguing characters, alongside swipes of Canadiana.
Author Katie Tallo has the gift of bringing visuals to every scene, every description. You can envision the story playing out in your head the entire way.
If you're not already acquainted with the Dark August/Poison Lilies world, do add them to your wish list.
Recommended!
Released today, May 24.
It's great when you love a book. A bonus to learn there will be a sequel. And the best when the sequel is as good or better when it's built upon the foundation of the first!
This is the case with Katie Tallo's Poison Lilies, the follow-up to last year's debut Dark August!
Thank you to HarperCollins Canada for my gifted ARC for review!
Augusta Monet is back, and she's relocated her life to Ottawa with pup Levi. And as the prologue tells us, that's not the only change to note - Gus is going into labour.
Poison Lilies is divided into first, second and third trimesters, recounting the events that led to the first scene.
Gus befriends her elderly upstairs neighbour Poppy Honeywell, and unwittingly steps into a mystery surrounding Poppy's past and family members. She's just one of the new adds of appealing and intriguing characters, alongside swipes of Canadiana.
Author Katie Tallo has the gift of bringing visuals to every scene, every description. You can envision the story playing out in your head the entire way.
If you're not already acquainted with the Dark August/Poison Lilies world, do add them to your wish list.
Recommended!
Released today, May 24.
May 23, 2022
It's the return of Augusta "Gus" Monet (Dark August)! Previously Gus had moved back to her hometown and solved her mother's murder. She is still reeling from the experience and has not yet found her stride. After a relationship mistake she picks up and leaves and finds herself alone in Ottawa. Fortunately, she befriends the wonderful Poppy in her apartment complex.
Before long, Gus is embroiled in another mystery that threatens her friend Poppy's mental well being and Gus's actual life. It turns out that Poppy is related to a very wealthy family, a family that will do anything to keep secrets buried. If you like a spunky heroine, a unique mystery story or just love a who-done-it filled with eccentric characters, then Poison Lillies is for you!
#HarperPerennial #HarperPaperbacks #Harper #Netgalley #Netgalleyreads
Before long, Gus is embroiled in another mystery that threatens her friend Poppy's mental well being and Gus's actual life. It turns out that Poppy is related to a very wealthy family, a family that will do anything to keep secrets buried. If you like a spunky heroine, a unique mystery story or just love a who-done-it filled with eccentric characters, then Poison Lillies is for you!
#HarperPerennial #HarperPaperbacks #Harper #Netgalley #Netgalleyreads
June 7, 2023
Book club pick. I enjoyed this book, especially as I recognised some of the places where it is set. I liked all the twists and turns, and especially liked the relationship between Gus and Poppy. I felt that the jumps in time felt very jerky, and the resolution to the story was very confusing - I was struggling to keep track of the characters and the relationships between them. I also read this without reading the first book, which I think, in hindsight, was a mistake as I felt I was missing some background.
December 1, 2024
I enjoyed Dark August very much and finally read this second book ahead of the third coming out in December. I love a good procedural and this one did not disappoint. It had been a minute since I read the first book, but it started coming back, and as such I think you can read this as a standalone just fine. I am a fan of Gus, the protagonist, and really liked the case including the Ottawa setting. I definitely recommend this one (and the series) if you like procedurals and I am now excited to read the next book soon.
July 30, 2025
Wow! Didn’t see that coming. About halfway through, I could not put this book down. What a story. It became a bit confusing and I just had to slow down to keep up. I like all things Gus and Levi, and will read the book before this one, Dark August. There were a few things I felt lost on because I had not read Dark August, but that didn’t take away from this story. Liked the action , twist and turns. And , Howard is a sweetie pie.
July 14, 2022
Set in Ottawa, this novel involves the untangling of family lies that have persisted over generations. I didn't much care for our amateur detective, Gus, short for Augusta Monet. I did like her strange journalist friend, though, as well as the elderly woman whom she works for. I also didn't much care for the author's jerky temporal transitions. I kept reading, hoping I'd see what others liked in the book. As a lover of Louise Penny's novels, I have to say that Tallo is no Louise Penny.
August 7, 2022
**I received an ARC of Poison Lilies by Katie Tallo as a GoodReads Giveaway winner from Harper Collins and the author.**
First off, I realized that this book was the second in a series when it arrived, so I purchased the first novel so I could give the second book a fair assessment. The first book was good, but slightly slow to begin. The second book was not slow at all! While I think a reader could probably read this book without reading the first one, I recommend reading them in order. The first book really did a good job of developing the main character and explaining her background. While the information isn’t necessarily needed to read the second book, it definitely helps show how the main character continues to grow and develop. I personally think the Gus Monet of Dark August is not the same Gus Monet of Poison Lilies. Although she doesn’t have life 100% figured out, Gus is more mature and more at peace in the second book, and I think a reader needs the first book to fully appreciate her progress as a character and to understand what drives her.
As for the plot….wow. It was twisty and turny and yanks you forward like an avalanche. I enjoyed how Ms. Tallo inserted tiny pieces of info that ended up having large impacts later on. Like when crazy Charlotte yelled “Ask about the Babies!”, Gus was all over the fact that Charlotte insinuated there was more than one baby involved in the family’s dark past. When it comes to supporting characters in Gus’ life, it becomes apparent that you can’t trust ANY of them until the book has ended. The whole time I was waiting for Howard to turn on her, or even Poppy. I thought the sibling tenets, Alice and Stanley, were weird and I figured they would play an important part in the story, but was not expecting the actual outcome!! I actually thought they were acting on behalf of the Mutchmores! But it turns out Alice had her own motives.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the “ending as the beginning” set up of the plot. I can see where the idea of that came from, but I think the pull off was shaky….especially when the flashbacks of “how I got here” randomly start and end. As someone who read the first book, finding Gus randomly pregnant AND stuck in a subbasement was a bit much to process right out of the gates. My brain was almost more confused at the random pregnancy than the fact that she was stuck in a subbasement. I was like, “when the eff did Gus get pregnant? Did I miss something from the last book? What the hell?” Nope, didn’t miss anything. She was not pregnant at the end of Book 1….but was at the start of Book 2….although the start of Book 2 was really the “almost end” of Book 2….yea, a little confusing. The pregnancy and the subbasement are both explained within the story later on. Despite being confusing, once I realized the bulk of the plot was going to be told in a series of flashbacks, I was driven to find the answers to the questions in my mind! I was drawn into the story and rarely came up for air. There were a few days where life took over and I wasn’t able to read……but the story was STILL ON MY MIND!! I was ITCHING to come back to it! Considering this was an ARC, I am hoping the use of the “ending as the beginning” was cleaned up a little before publishing so it would flow a bit better.
Overall, I fully enjoy this series and I hope Katie Tallo continues writing Gus Monet’s story! Thank you Harper Collins, Katie Tallo, and GoodReads for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of Poison Lilies, which is now fully published and able to be purchased! If anyone reading this long review is interested in twisty mysteries that keep you guessing to the very end, Dark August & Poison Lilies are for you!!!!
First off, I realized that this book was the second in a series when it arrived, so I purchased the first novel so I could give the second book a fair assessment. The first book was good, but slightly slow to begin. The second book was not slow at all! While I think a reader could probably read this book without reading the first one, I recommend reading them in order. The first book really did a good job of developing the main character and explaining her background. While the information isn’t necessarily needed to read the second book, it definitely helps show how the main character continues to grow and develop. I personally think the Gus Monet of Dark August is not the same Gus Monet of Poison Lilies. Although she doesn’t have life 100% figured out, Gus is more mature and more at peace in the second book, and I think a reader needs the first book to fully appreciate her progress as a character and to understand what drives her.
As for the plot….wow. It was twisty and turny and yanks you forward like an avalanche. I enjoyed how Ms. Tallo inserted tiny pieces of info that ended up having large impacts later on. Like when crazy Charlotte yelled “Ask about the Babies!”, Gus was all over the fact that Charlotte insinuated there was more than one baby involved in the family’s dark past. When it comes to supporting characters in Gus’ life, it becomes apparent that you can’t trust ANY of them until the book has ended. The whole time I was waiting for Howard to turn on her, or even Poppy. I thought the sibling tenets, Alice and Stanley, were weird and I figured they would play an important part in the story, but was not expecting the actual outcome!! I actually thought they were acting on behalf of the Mutchmores! But it turns out Alice had her own motives.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the “ending as the beginning” set up of the plot. I can see where the idea of that came from, but I think the pull off was shaky….especially when the flashbacks of “how I got here” randomly start and end. As someone who read the first book, finding Gus randomly pregnant AND stuck in a subbasement was a bit much to process right out of the gates. My brain was almost more confused at the random pregnancy than the fact that she was stuck in a subbasement. I was like, “when the eff did Gus get pregnant? Did I miss something from the last book? What the hell?” Nope, didn’t miss anything. She was not pregnant at the end of Book 1….but was at the start of Book 2….although the start of Book 2 was really the “almost end” of Book 2….yea, a little confusing. The pregnancy and the subbasement are both explained within the story later on. Despite being confusing, once I realized the bulk of the plot was going to be told in a series of flashbacks, I was driven to find the answers to the questions in my mind! I was drawn into the story and rarely came up for air. There were a few days where life took over and I wasn’t able to read……but the story was STILL ON MY MIND!! I was ITCHING to come back to it! Considering this was an ARC, I am hoping the use of the “ending as the beginning” was cleaned up a little before publishing so it would flow a bit better.
Overall, I fully enjoy this series and I hope Katie Tallo continues writing Gus Monet’s story! Thank you Harper Collins, Katie Tallo, and GoodReads for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of Poison Lilies, which is now fully published and able to be purchased! If anyone reading this long review is interested in twisty mysteries that keep you guessing to the very end, Dark August & Poison Lilies are for you!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2022
Poison Lilies has some outstanding elements for a mystery: a small-town setting, family secrets, a great friendship, and an overall sinister feel.
I will say that I wish I had read the first book. It didn’t stop me from enjoying the story, but as I followed Gus, this young woman grieving her mother’s murder, this woman who seemed to 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳; I felt I needed more background on her.
Gus is back in her hometown, and she befriends an elderly recluse named Poppy Honeywell. Poppy is a member of one of the oldest families in town, and it turns out they have some dark, creepy secrets. When a body is found in a frozen pond nearby, Poppy wants Gus’s help to investigate if this is tied to her long-lost lover. But of course, danger is waiting right around the corner…
This had quite a few twists and turns that I didn’t see coming, but the characters were what brought this one to life for me.
Thank you @harperperennial for a gifted copy.
I will say that I wish I had read the first book. It didn’t stop me from enjoying the story, but as I followed Gus, this young woman grieving her mother’s murder, this woman who seemed to 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳; I felt I needed more background on her.
Gus is back in her hometown, and she befriends an elderly recluse named Poppy Honeywell. Poppy is a member of one of the oldest families in town, and it turns out they have some dark, creepy secrets. When a body is found in a frozen pond nearby, Poppy wants Gus’s help to investigate if this is tied to her long-lost lover. But of course, danger is waiting right around the corner…
This had quite a few twists and turns that I didn’t see coming, but the characters were what brought this one to life for me.
Thank you @harperperennial for a gifted copy.
June 11, 2022
After moving to a new neighbourhood of Ottawa to leave her past behind, Gus befriends her elderly neighbour Poppy. When a body is discovered in the park nearby that may link to mysteries in Poppy’s past, she enlists Gus’ help as a private investigator!
My mini synopsis does not do this book justice but it’s best I not say more! This is an incredibly well-written story with multiple layers of mystery and suspense! I LOVED the characters- Gus, Poppy, Mojo, Howard! And would love to read more about them. This novel is chilling at times, and involves a very well crafted mystery plot that will keep you guessing! (And the most adorable love story)! I didn’t read Dark August and loved this anyway! Will go back to read it now!
Thanks to HarperCollins Canada for my copy!
My mini synopsis does not do this book justice but it’s best I not say more! This is an incredibly well-written story with multiple layers of mystery and suspense! I LOVED the characters- Gus, Poppy, Mojo, Howard! And would love to read more about them. This novel is chilling at times, and involves a very well crafted mystery plot that will keep you guessing! (And the most adorable love story)! I didn’t read Dark August and loved this anyway! Will go back to read it now!
Thanks to HarperCollins Canada for my copy!
April 8, 2022
The whole time I was reading this I kept thinking “wow, I really love this Gus character, I could see her in a series.” And then I find out this is a follow-up book to Dark August (which I haven’t read but now must!)
This book was really good, I loved the characters as I said, Howard and quirky Mojo, and the storyline was engrossing but the ending was kind of jumbled for me, like there was a lot about brothers and lovers and if I say too much more I'll give it away but it got a little muddy there at the end. I still figured it all out and enjoyed the ride!
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book, I loved Gus and Levi!!
This book was really good, I loved the characters as I said, Howard and quirky Mojo, and the storyline was engrossing but the ending was kind of jumbled for me, like there was a lot about brothers and lovers and if I say too much more I'll give it away but it got a little muddy there at the end. I still figured it all out and enjoyed the ride!
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book, I loved Gus and Levi!!
June 21, 2022
I greatly enjoyed reading Dark August by Katie Tallo, and was thrilled to learn that Augusta Monet’s story was not quite finished. In this exciting sequel, Gus still has her trusty sidekick Levi, and a couple new friends along for the ride.
I love that Tallo’s novels are set close to home. It’s nice to read about local landmarks and neighbourhoods that I recognize.
I feel like this one took a whole lot of twists and turns, but overall, I enjoyed it! It was fun to uncover the mystery.
I love that Tallo’s novels are set close to home. It’s nice to read about local landmarks and neighbourhoods that I recognize.
I feel like this one took a whole lot of twists and turns, but overall, I enjoyed it! It was fun to uncover the mystery.
March 14, 2023
Gus and her dog, Levi, have resettled in Ottawa at the Ambassador Court, an art deco building with cheap rent. But she befriends her upstairs elderly blind neighbor, Poppy Honeywell, and soon becomes embroiled in a decades old mystery surrounding Poppy’s first love and Poppy’s rich, entitled, and menacing family, the Mutchmores.
The writing is fine but the story structure; back and forth in time, is often an awkward transition.
The writing is fine but the story structure; back and forth in time, is often an awkward transition.
July 29, 2022
I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway. Thanks to Harper and Goodreads for the opportunity to provide a review. This was the second book in the series and they must be read in order to get the whole backstory on Gus’s life. This was a slow burn to an absolutely explosive ending full of twists and turns. Looking forward to the next book in the series, even though Gus makes me a nervous wreck during most of the book!
August 19, 2024
So Canadian, so Ottawa
January 4, 2025
Chapter 9, author electrocuted a main character’s cat, so immediately DNF’d.
Other red flags: main character becoming pregnant after sleeping with a character from the previous book who not only tried to kill her, but also poisoned her sweet childhood dog, Levi. Levi survived that horrible plot, but this author is no longer one I’ll continue to read since she finds it essential to include cruelty to animals in her fiction.
Other red flags: main character becoming pregnant after sleeping with a character from the previous book who not only tried to kill her, but also poisoned her sweet childhood dog, Levi. Levi survived that horrible plot, but this author is no longer one I’ll continue to read since she finds it essential to include cruelty to animals in her fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews