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The Botanist: The First ‘Twist in the Tale’ Novel
Retired doctor Lilian Templeton has a dead body in her garden and there is nothing she can do to stop the gas men digging it up. DI Ronnie Twist and her sergeant, Luke Carter, are not fooled by Lilian’s apparent innocence, and a game of cat and mouse ensues as Lilian seeks to hide her murderous past and avoid detection. What led Lilian to kill? How many murders has she committed? And will she get away with it? A cosy crime novel with a twist, ‘ The Botanist ’ takes the reader inside the mind of a surprisingly sympathetic murderer and along a rollercoaster journey as she attempts to avoid justice. The secrets of the past are revealed in parallel with the police investigation, culminating in an exciting finale and an unexpected final twist. Set in the market town of Beverley, East Yorkshire, this is the first ‘ Twist in the Tale ’ mystery.
216 pages, Paperback
Published January 24, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 11, 2021
Please, sit down. Take a slice of that lovely ginger cake and do you want a cuppa tea? Please relax, sit back and enjoy this novel. Because it is really good.
I went into this nearly blind, I only knew it had something to do with an elderly person and a crime. Well, I was reading The Thursday Murder Club (review to come soon) at the time and was in the right mood and thus decided to give it a try.
The Botanist by Anne Wedgwood is a lovely, very British, novel about, well, lots of cake, tea and murder. What else could you possibly want?
Our protagonist awaits some workers because it seems that there are pipes underneath her house and now they come to dig up her precious little garden.. and the corpse in it. Well, damn. That wasn't going as she expected.
Right from the beginning you know what you are getting into, you know what this book is about from the very first page. And I was hooked. The writing style is great, even funny at times. I had quite a few laughs while reading The Botanist.
Definitely recommend. 🔪🔪🔪🔪/5
I went into this nearly blind, I only knew it had something to do with an elderly person and a crime. Well, I was reading The Thursday Murder Club (review to come soon) at the time and was in the right mood and thus decided to give it a try.
The Botanist by Anne Wedgwood is a lovely, very British, novel about, well, lots of cake, tea and murder. What else could you possibly want?
Our protagonist awaits some workers because it seems that there are pipes underneath her house and now they come to dig up her precious little garden.. and the corpse in it. Well, damn. That wasn't going as she expected.
Right from the beginning you know what you are getting into, you know what this book is about from the very first page. And I was hooked. The writing style is great, even funny at times. I had quite a few laughs while reading The Botanist.
Definitely recommend. 🔪🔪🔪🔪/5
August 12, 2021
An old lady, a very British setting, lots of tea, cake, and murder. Our sharp and energetic protagonist unlocks the door for some workers who are checking the gas pipes, the epitome of innocence and that nice woman who always offers you a place at her table. The next moment the entire garden is crossed over with police tape and she’s the suspect of the murder. Who? That lady? That soft spoken elderly person? Never. Yet, as you find out from the very first pages, she’s not exactly what she seems.
“If you’ve met me, you’d never guess what I’ve done. I’m one of the invisible. Women of a certain age, conventionally dressed, going about their business, shopping, gardening, on their own after spending years looking after aged parents, nothing to catch your eye. You’d never look at me and wonder if I was a killer.”
Told between switching from third person to emotional first person, the mystery definitely unfolds in the opposite direction from the usual. You know the murderer. Do you know why? We have a manipulative narrator, one that knows exactly what she’s doing, one that knows the police is waiting for her to slip up. You follow Dr Templeton on an action filled mystery that keeps you on your toes with a character that you’re not used to. We absolutely need more elderly people to be a part of stories!! I highly suggest Insomnia and the Thursday Murder Club for some more septuagenarian fun:))
Very well planned out, but I did figure out the hows and the whys, so for me, once all has been revealed, it wasn’t that exciting to watch for the resolution. A little predictable if you often read thrillers, so for experienced readers of the genre this isn’t it. For fans of cozy mysteries; however, this might be it! I also could have used a little bit more of embellishment and humour during the writing part. It was an entertaining read to fill the day with, but the story didn’t utterly absorb me.
On a side note: Because the writing is very simple and I know I have some people for who English is at a simpler more beginner level following me, I would recommend this book, it has very authentic dialogue and some good expressions while not that difficult vocabulary wise. It wasn’t my favourite thriller of the year, or of all time, but definitely on the strong side of ARCs I’ve been fortunate enough to receive, and I’m so thankful to the author for reaching out to me in exchange for an honest review! You’ve provided me with a very entertaining evening. 3⭐️ and a boost of serotonin because I’ve recently discovered it’s just very satisfying to take a break from all this teenager nonsense (I get enough of myself😂) and read about some older people!
“If you’ve met me, you’d never guess what I’ve done. I’m one of the invisible. Women of a certain age, conventionally dressed, going about their business, shopping, gardening, on their own after spending years looking after aged parents, nothing to catch your eye. You’d never look at me and wonder if I was a killer.”
Told between switching from third person to emotional first person, the mystery definitely unfolds in the opposite direction from the usual. You know the murderer. Do you know why? We have a manipulative narrator, one that knows exactly what she’s doing, one that knows the police is waiting for her to slip up. You follow Dr Templeton on an action filled mystery that keeps you on your toes with a character that you’re not used to. We absolutely need more elderly people to be a part of stories!! I highly suggest Insomnia and the Thursday Murder Club for some more septuagenarian fun:))
Very well planned out, but I did figure out the hows and the whys, so for me, once all has been revealed, it wasn’t that exciting to watch for the resolution. A little predictable if you often read thrillers, so for experienced readers of the genre this isn’t it. For fans of cozy mysteries; however, this might be it! I also could have used a little bit more of embellishment and humour during the writing part. It was an entertaining read to fill the day with, but the story didn’t utterly absorb me.
On a side note: Because the writing is very simple and I know I have some people for who English is at a simpler more beginner level following me, I would recommend this book, it has very authentic dialogue and some good expressions while not that difficult vocabulary wise. It wasn’t my favourite thriller of the year, or of all time, but definitely on the strong side of ARCs I’ve been fortunate enough to receive, and I’m so thankful to the author for reaching out to me in exchange for an honest review! You’ve provided me with a very entertaining evening. 3⭐️ and a boost of serotonin because I’ve recently discovered it’s just very satisfying to take a break from all this teenager nonsense (I get enough of myself😂) and read about some older people!
April 24, 2021
The author recommended the book and I am so glad I read it! It’s a little different than the usual mysteries, as we already know the murderer from the start of the story. It was intriguing, however, to see how the story will unfold and whether the culprit will be caught. Until the end, the action kept going, and there was no dull moment. For anyone who enjoys murder mysteries, this is a great read!
March 21, 2021
Is Lilian Templeton a psychopath? She is definitely a murderer and you know that on page one. But after reading this satisfying mystery, you can certainly argue both sides.
This mystery is told in alternating first- and third-person chapters, giving the reader an opportunity to see the action and know not only what is in Templeton’s mind, but what is behind what she does. For anyone interested in the psychology of a murderer, this is catnip. The main character is portrayed as a smart cookie who knows how to play an old, doddering woman in front of the cops. Will she get away with it? That’s the question.
The author of the book contacted me after I posted that I read The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman, thinking that I might like something similar. It was not as similar as what I initially thought. The Botanist is well-plotted and quick to read, a delightful workout for the brain, and a fascinating tale. Highly recommended.
This mystery is told in alternating first- and third-person chapters, giving the reader an opportunity to see the action and know not only what is in Templeton’s mind, but what is behind what she does. For anyone interested in the psychology of a murderer, this is catnip. The main character is portrayed as a smart cookie who knows how to play an old, doddering woman in front of the cops. Will she get away with it? That’s the question.
The author of the book contacted me after I posted that I read The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman, thinking that I might like something similar. It was not as similar as what I initially thought. The Botanist is well-plotted and quick to read, a delightful workout for the brain, and a fascinating tale. Highly recommended.
March 6, 2021
This was a very intriguing debut novel. Different in many ways not least that you know at the outset that Dr Lilian Templeton is the killer. 'Am I a psychopath?' the character asks at one point - well the reader can decide. Appearing at first as a sweet old lady, she soon begins to show her true colours when the gas board unearth a body in her back garden.
The story is told in the first person and also in flashbacks. Even though you know the protagonist you are captivated by the how and why - lots of twists and even the end leaves you guessing.
Not sure I will be eating ginger cake for a while
The story is told in the first person and also in flashbacks. Even though you know the protagonist you are captivated by the how and why - lots of twists and even the end leaves you guessing.
Not sure I will be eating ginger cake for a while
June 13, 2021
Hooks you in from the very first line and never lets go.
Hooks you in from the very first line and never lets go. Just as soon as you think you know what’s going on, another twist shifts your perspective and you’re hooked all over again.
As masterfully as the plot is written, so is the main character Dr Lilian Templeton - her character is as twisted as the plot and I needed to know and understand her just as much as I needed to know and understand what happened.
One of the best crime books I’ve read in a very long time, and Anne Wedgewood has been added to my favourite author list. Read The Botanist - you’ll love it.
Hooks you in from the very first line and never lets go. Just as soon as you think you know what’s going on, another twist shifts your perspective and you’re hooked all over again.
As masterfully as the plot is written, so is the main character Dr Lilian Templeton - her character is as twisted as the plot and I needed to know and understand her just as much as I needed to know and understand what happened.
One of the best crime books I’ve read in a very long time, and Anne Wedgewood has been added to my favourite author list. Read The Botanist - you’ll love it.
March 11, 2021
This cozy mystery was recommended by its author herself. A dead body was found in a garden of retired doctor Lilian. She pretends she’s innocent and tries to fool investigators but actually she knows all stories behind the dead body... The story is cozy with some nice cakes and a cup of tea. But as the story goes on, you can’t look aside from the book because of an exciting cat-and-mouse game between Lilian and the investigators. I can’t wait for her next novel!
June 30, 2021
I bought this book after its author saw my review of Richard Osman’s ‘The Thursday Murder Club’ and wrote to me to let me know I might enjoy her novel. I was intrigued by the premise; Anne described the book as being the opposite of Osman’s tale in that it deals with pensioners trying to cover up rather than solve a historical murder. The deal was sealed when I learned that the story is set in and around Beverley, East Yorkshire, a stone’s throw from where I grew up. Anne never asked me to review her book but I have chosen to do so as I think it is excellent, that it deserves more recognition and exposure and that several of my fellow readers would love it.
I will say no more about the plot as I really don’t want to spoil anything for anyone who chooses to buy and read the book. All I will say (no offence, Anne) is that I will never accept a slice of cake from the author!
I’m a big fan of thrillers and murder mysteries but am often asked by family and friends why I bother reading or watching them because I have a knack for correctly predicting the ending well before the final chapters or episodes.
One of my favourite things about this book is that it keeps you guessing about the who, the how and the why right until the end. I did not predict any of the tale’s conclusion. The book made me laugh and also gasp in shock in places. I was a little disturbed that I at times found myself empathising with a serial killer which is testament to Anne Wedgwood’s excellent writing. Once I picked this book up I couldn’t put it down; I actually stayed up very late and read the whole thing in one sitting.
I think it would be a nice idea for any future printings of this book to include illustrations of the various plants mentioned and to include a recipe for ginger cake as it features so heavily in the book.
I am very glad I took a punt on this book and would heartily encourage anyone who enjoyed Richard Osman’s novel or who enjoys crime writing, thrillers or mysteries to buy it and read it. Thank you very much, Anne, for recommending it to me.
I will say no more about the plot as I really don’t want to spoil anything for anyone who chooses to buy and read the book. All I will say (no offence, Anne) is that I will never accept a slice of cake from the author!
I’m a big fan of thrillers and murder mysteries but am often asked by family and friends why I bother reading or watching them because I have a knack for correctly predicting the ending well before the final chapters or episodes.
One of my favourite things about this book is that it keeps you guessing about the who, the how and the why right until the end. I did not predict any of the tale’s conclusion. The book made me laugh and also gasp in shock in places. I was a little disturbed that I at times found myself empathising with a serial killer which is testament to Anne Wedgwood’s excellent writing. Once I picked this book up I couldn’t put it down; I actually stayed up very late and read the whole thing in one sitting.
I think it would be a nice idea for any future printings of this book to include illustrations of the various plants mentioned and to include a recipe for ginger cake as it features so heavily in the book.
I am very glad I took a punt on this book and would heartily encourage anyone who enjoyed Richard Osman’s novel or who enjoys crime writing, thrillers or mysteries to buy it and read it. Thank you very much, Anne, for recommending it to me.
May 15, 2021
This was a cracking read! The plot was so intriguing that I couldn't put it down. As Lilian's back story emerged I started to want her to stay one step ahead of the police, even though she was a murderer! (as we know from the beginning of the book).
This would make for a good TV drama!
I'm looking forward to the next book.
This would make for a good TV drama!
I'm looking forward to the next book.
August 9, 2021
I loved this book. It is so different to anything I have read before. We know who the murderer is and I found myself liking her and feeling disappointed when the police got closer and closer to finding out what happened.
I loved the countryside location and the Britishness of it, if you know what I mean.
The writing is excellent and this book deserves to be in the best seller’s list.
I loved the countryside location and the Britishness of it, if you know what I mean.
The writing is excellent and this book deserves to be in the best seller’s list.
March 27, 2021
The Botanist by Anne Wedgwood has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Award.
www.chillwithabook.com
www.chillwithabook.com
April 21, 2021
A clever novel with many threads interweaved. Just when you think Dr Templeton has done her worst she exposes one more event! No spoilers - you have to read it!
As the story was eked out stage by stage, this meant that details of each crime were duplicated as all was revealed (I now know in great detail how to kill someone using the method!) giving the feel of it being over-long. Recommended if you like your mysteries with great attention to detail.
As the story was eked out stage by stage, this meant that details of each crime were duplicated as all was revealed (I now know in great detail how to kill someone using the method!) giving the feel of it being over-long. Recommended if you like your mysteries with great attention to detail.
July 10, 2022
What a great read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2021
This was a truly fun cat and mouse cozy mystery involving a not-quite-as-dottering-as-she-appears pensioner and a 45+ year old murder. Or two. Or...?
Thanks to the author for the recommendation! It had me giggling and sneaking chapters all day at work.
Cozy mysteries aren’t usually my thing - I love the intricacies of detailed thrillers - but this was a lovely, light and well-written story.
I’m looking forward to future work from this author!
Thanks to the author for the recommendation! It had me giggling and sneaking chapters all day at work.
Cozy mysteries aren’t usually my thing - I love the intricacies of detailed thrillers - but this was a lovely, light and well-written story.
I’m looking forward to future work from this author!
January 14, 2021
Good Read!
As a Beverley resident and my husband is a retired Detective Sergeant, this book was a must read.
It was bought as a present for me so I had no preconceptions, but I must say I did thoroughly enjoy it. The twist at the end was unexpected!
As a Beverley resident and my husband is a retired Detective Sergeant, this book was a must read.
It was bought as a present for me so I had no preconceptions, but I must say I did thoroughly enjoy it. The twist at the end was unexpected!
August 7, 2026
📖 The Botanist- Anne Wedgwood 📖
“Retired doctor Lilian Templeton has a dead body in her garden and there is nothing she can do to stop the gas men digging it up. DI Ronnie Twist and her sergeant, Luke Carter, are not fooled by Lilian's apparent innocence, and a game of cat and mouse ensues as Lilian seeks to hide her murderous past and avoid detection.What led Lilian to kill? How many murders has she committed? And will she get away with it?”
📚
This was bizarre. It was giving cozy crime that wanted to be a full thriller that couldn't get the needed umph. Lillian is one of the most indecisive people ever. Like she was leaving then she wasn't then bam as soon as someone else snuffed she was gone. Now I get it in terms of Joanna, but if she was prepared to go on the run why didn't she leg it?
📚
I just don't know how to feel about it. It was a little bit stupid, Lilian's circle was so small of course she was going to be prime suspect no. 1. For a very short book, it dragged every page. I have to give it 3 stars 🌟.
“Retired doctor Lilian Templeton has a dead body in her garden and there is nothing she can do to stop the gas men digging it up. DI Ronnie Twist and her sergeant, Luke Carter, are not fooled by Lilian's apparent innocence, and a game of cat and mouse ensues as Lilian seeks to hide her murderous past and avoid detection.What led Lilian to kill? How many murders has she committed? And will she get away with it?”
📚
This was bizarre. It was giving cozy crime that wanted to be a full thriller that couldn't get the needed umph. Lillian is one of the most indecisive people ever. Like she was leaving then she wasn't then bam as soon as someone else snuffed she was gone. Now I get it in terms of Joanna, but if she was prepared to go on the run why didn't she leg it?
📚
I just don't know how to feel about it. It was a little bit stupid, Lilian's circle was so small of course she was going to be prime suspect no. 1. For a very short book, it dragged every page. I have to give it 3 stars 🌟.
July 22, 2024
This was very enjoyable, with Lillian scrambling to keep one step ahead of the police after a body is discovered buried in her garden. Is it the body of her long-missing husband? Chapters narrated by Lillian in the present day are interspersed with chapters describing episodes in her past, and this focus on her means that the reader sides with her rather than the police, who remain fairly opaque. At the same time, the answer to the question Lillian poses as to whether she is a psychopath becomes clearer.
My only niggle was the police officers' near-psychic ability to leap to correct conclusions about things that would in reality never have crossed their minds. Excellent ending too.
My only niggle was the police officers' near-psychic ability to leap to correct conclusions about things that would in reality never have crossed their minds. Excellent ending too.
June 25, 2025
I'm on holiday in Crete and recently come back from a visit to Beverley where this book is set. I loved it! I enjoyed how it flicked from past to present day. I enjoyed the style of writing and the characters were interesting. The idea of a well functioning and seemingly normal phycopath is what I found most intriguing. You never know what goes on behind closed doors! It sure is a twisted tale and a page turner. I read this book in two days! I have bought the next two books in this twisted trilogy and highly recommend this author!
September 8, 2023
Retired hospital doctor, Lilian Templeton, is upset when the gas company want to dig up her beautiful garden. Gradually we discover why. Her background unfolds and we find out she's not at all what she seems. She has a wildflower area, and a greenhouse where she raises rare plants. She seems like the archetypal sweet old lady. I really love the way Anne Wedgewood has unfolded a story for us, and the ending is tense but satisfying. Highly recommended.
August 15, 2023
I devoured the first quarter of the book. Based on that I expected it to be a black comedy, a cat and mouse game between the police and Dr Templeton. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much investigation or deception going on, and the second half lost the humorous elements too. Still, this book deserves way more attention than the number of reviews shows.
March 30, 2025
I read this book on holiday in 2024 and is it is set in my local area this was a nice slice of home whilst being abroad. This is a fast paced and fun read that can be finished in a day. It has an unexpected ending just when you think you know where its going. Being the first in a series I look forward to reading more of Anne's novels.
August 10, 2023
Cozy crime? Maybe. Clever? Definitely. An unsual, quirky book (love the setting) with a fascinating protagonist. We know Lilian Templeton is a killer ... but why ... is she all she seems? Pour some tea, cut a slice of cake, and tuck in.
January 25, 2025
I really enjoyed the narrator and the story. Living local to Beverley allowed me to immerse myself in the streets, walking where she walked.
Loved the story and already bought the next two!
Loved the story and already bought the next two!
June 20, 2026
Entertaining!
September 19, 2024
I read this in one sitting, really engaging story.
May 16, 2024
For my full review click on the link below:
https://crossexaminingcrime.wordpress...
https://crossexaminingcrime.wordpress...
January 7, 2023
An excellent cosy-crime novel with backstory, a quaint village and strange murders. An excellent addition to this genre.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews