Cozy Monday

Daisies for Innocence (Enchanted Garden #1) by Gailey Cattrell (Obsidian mass market paperback, 5 January 2016).

The name of the shop -- Scents & Nonsense --  that Elliana Allbright opens after her divorce was a sign that I'd love this book.

Though it's somewhat uncomfortable to still be in the same small town as her ex, but Poppyville is Ellie's hometown, and she has no desire to leave.  She's got a lovely tiny house behind the shop, and a glorious garden, which she harvests for her custom perfumes.

One afternoon, her part-time employee, Josie Overland springs the news that she's involved with Harris, Ellie's ex.  Ellie's stunned, but assures Josie that it won't affect their relationship.

Despite what she says to Josie, Ellie is troubled, and has a sleepless night.  She even takes her dog out for a walk to try to relax.

The next morning, when she's out in her garden, she discovers Josie's body.  After the police check it out, the inform Ellie that Josie has been murdered.

Because of Josie's revelation the day before, Ellie is a suspect.  The situation is worsened when it turns out that the lead detective on the case is Harris' best friend, Max,who has never liked Ellie.  When Ellie finds out that Harris has told everyone that she killed Josie, she decides that she can't trust Max to remain unbiased and decides that she has to find out who killed her friend in order to clear her own name.

Ellie is a well-constructed character, and anyone who's ended a difficult relationship will empathize with her.

The process of distilling floral essences is described in great detail, and will be of interest to anyone curious about aromatherapy.  There are also some tips and suggested blends at the end of the book, though, unfortunately, no indication of when the next in the series is due.



The publisher has generously offered a copy of Daisies for Innocence to one of my readers. Please comment below by 12:01 a.m. on Monday, January 18. Please don't forget to include an email address where I can contact you if you win. Entries from the U.S. only, please.




FTC Full Disclosure: Many thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy of this book.