As an avid mystery lover, I was drawn in by the title. Gardens, flowers, plants, etc. truly have long been a staple in the world of murder mysteries. Either someone is unknowingly digesting a poisonous plant or a body is being discovered buried amongst the daylilies. This book was compiled with the many ways gardens and all their splendor have been staples in the mysteries we know and love. ( )

McDowell clearly knows her plants and her mysteries. The writing was clear and the illustrations were lovely.

However, this read to me like a nicely edited list of occasions in which mysteries have featured gardening, or their authors have talked about gardening. The book never really came together for me beyond that. McDowell's greater point in assembling this collection was not apparent to me. I found myself skimming much of it, despite loving gardening and mysteries. ( )

Gardening Can Be Murder by Marta McDowell is a fun and informative book, full of tidbits that will make reading (and watching, for that matter) mysteries that much more engaging.

From the characters and scenes to the means and motives for murder, we are led through how thoroughly gardening and plants have played roles in classic murder mysteries. Not to mention in the lives of many of the writers themselves.

The writing is engaging and we are given a brisk tour of every aspect. Yes, the Latin names are included, as they should be, but it isn't required that you memorize them, so just keep reading. They really aren't that extensive or disruptive. Plus looking at the names can give some clues about them, and if you like mysteries then looking for clues should be right up your alley.

I would recommend this to mystery lovers as well as those who simply enjoy learning about the elements that make up any genre of literature.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley. ( )