Kate Khavari’s A Botanist’s Guide to Parties and Poisons delivers a captivating blend of historical mystery and botanical expertise. Set in 1920s London, the novel introduces us to Saffron Everleigh, a determined research assistant at University College’s biology department navigating the challenges of a male-dominated field. When a mysterious death occurs at a department party, Saffron, armed with her knowledge of botany, takes it upon herself to uncover the truth, suspecting foul play involving a rare and deadly South American plant.
A Poisonous Plot Unfolds
The story opens with a dramatic scene: Mrs. Henry, wife of a prominent scientist, collapses after taking a drink at a lavish party. Dr. Henry, in a tense scene, refills her glass, setting the stage for suspicion. Saffron, witnessing this, becomes convinced that the local police are overlooking crucial details. This propels her into an investigation centered around a fictional, highly poisonous plant discovered by her boss years prior, adding a unique botanical twist to the classic whodunit.
Saffron Everleigh Mystery Series
Characters with Botanical Flair
Khavari cleverly incorporates botanical references into her character names. Saffron Everleigh herself immediately suggests the vibrant spice, while Inspector Green and Doctor Aster offer more direct allusions. Alexander Ashton, Saffron’s intriguing and mysterious partner in investigation, hints at the strength and resilience of the ash tree. These subtle nods add a layer of charm and wit to the narrative.
The character Harry Snyder is memorable too:
Harry Snyder, Dr. Henry’s assistant, was seated on her other side. With small brown eyes behind wire-rim glasses, and thin lips that emphasized his large, impeccable teeth, he looked rather like a rodent. His demeanor, skittish and reticent, matched his mousy appearance.
Romance and Research Collide
Saffron isn’t alone in her pursuit of the truth. She’s joined by Alexander Ashton, a biologist and microbiologist whose expertise proves invaluable. The dynamic between them is charged with sexual tension, creating a will-they-won’t-they subplot that adds another layer of intrigue. However, the reader is left questioning Ashton’s true motives, unsure whether he’s a reliable ally or a potential suspect, much like a deceptive cobra plant. The romantic element, while present, doesn’t overshadow the central mystery.
Post-War Shadows and Modern Misogyny
Beyond the central mystery, the novel explores the lingering effects of World War I, particularly on Alexander Ashton, who is grappling with the psychological scars of the conflict. As Khavari stated in an interview:
Much has been written about soldiers experiencing shell-shock, so I wanted to explore a lesser known avenue of symptoms and recovery. Alexander’s recovery from the Great War is complex and isn’t straightforward—few cases are—nor it is over. I will just say that many hours of research and consideration went into developing his symptoms and coping strategies…
Saffron also contends with the sexism prevalent in the 1920s academic world, facing both subtle and overt forms of discrimination. The story touches upon the toxic politics of academia, highlighting the challenges faced by women striving for recognition in a male-dominated environment.
A Delightful and Deadly Brew
A Botanist’s Guide to Parties and Poisons offers a delightful escape into a world of botanical mysteries and historical intrigue. Khavari’s engaging characters, clever plot, and subtle humor make for a captivating read. While the investigation is conducted by amateurs, the focus on botany provides a unique and fascinating angle. With a second book, A Botanist’s Guide to Flowers and Fatality, on the horizon, readers will undoubtedly be eager to rejoin Saffron Everleigh in her next botanical adventure. It’s a cozy mystery in the truest sense, where the stakes are high, but the atmosphere remains engaging, smart, and fun.
As the book describes:
Her eyes fell on the name of a plant from south-central Mexico, brought back decades ago by Dr. Maxwell. The vine was a sickly yellow color and zigzagged around trees as it grew, clinging tightly to its host. Maxwell had named it the xolotl vine, after the Aztec god of death and lightning, since the growth pattern resembled a fork of lightning and the toxin in its leaves struck as quickly. Saffron had the feeling that Maxwell enjoyed the notorious reputation of his plant, occasionally still telling secondhand stories of people dropping to the ground immediately upon consumption.
Further Exploration
- Visit Kate Khavari’s personal website for more information about the author and her work.
- Explore Khavari’s Botanical Index for a deeper dive into the plants featured in the book.
- Read an interview with Kate Khavari on The Book Delight.
