The Botanist – Washington Poe Series Book #5

Author: M. W. Craven
Genre: Thriller, Crime Fiction
429 pages
Publisher: Constable, 2022

Synopsis
The Botanist by M.W. Craven is the 5th installment in the Washington Poe series, following the renowned detective as he tackles a perplexing case involving a series of seemingly unconnected murders.

Detective Sergeant Washington Poe can count on one hand the number of friends he has. And he’d still have his thumb left. There’s the insanely brilliant, guilelessly innocent civilian analyst, Tilly Bradshaw of course. He’s known his beleaguered boss, Detective Inspector Stephanie Flynn for years as he has his nearest neighbour, full-time shepherd/part-time dog sitter, Victoria.

And then there’s Estelle Doyle. It’s true the caustic pathologist has never walked down the sunny side of the street but this time has she gone too far? Shot twice in the head, her father’s murder appears to be an open and shut case. Estelle has firearms discharge residue on her hands, and, in a house surrounded by fresh snow, hers are the only footprints going in. Since her arrest she’s only said three words: ‘Tell Washington Poe.’

Meanwhile, a poisoner the press have dubbed the Botanist is sending high profile celebrities poems and pressed flowers and is killing people through highly complex toxins, though the means by which they are administered remain the greatest mystery. The killer seems to be able to walk through walls and, despite the advance notice he gives his victims, and regardless of the security measures the police take, he seems to be able to kill with impunity.

For a man who hates locked room mysteries, this is going to be the longest week of Washington Poe’s life. The Botanist is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and unexpected twists, it’s a must-read for fans of the Washington Poe series and crime fiction in general.

My review
Washington Poe is my favorite British Crime series. Craven’s stories are like multilayered, complex puzzles and The Botanist is no exception! It plunges readers into a chilling mystery set against the backdrop of the Lake District, where Poe finds himself entangled in two perplexing cases.

As the story unfolds, Craven skillfully ratchets up the tension, and, as usual, kept me guessing with each twist and turn. The Lake District setting serves as a haunting backdrop to the unfolding drama, its rugged beauty juxtaposed with the darkness lurking beneath the surface.

It’s not just the suspense that captivated me but the characters themselves. Poe’s complex personality and troubled past add layers of depth to his character, while Bradshaw’s social awkwardness and keen intellect make her a compelling and relatable figure.

In the end, The Botanist is more than just a gripping thriller – it’s a testament to Craven’s masterful storytelling, vivid characters, and ability to hook readers and keep them guessing until the very end. Craven has mastered the art of pacing, and he keeps the story moving at just the right speed to maintain suspense and intrigue. I appreciate his attention to detail and the way the way he brings the settings and characters to life.

The Mercy Chair is the sixth book in the Washington Poe Series and the expected release date is Summer 2024. I can hardly wait!

My recommendation: read it! The Botanist is an immensely suspenseful read and I recommend the entire Washington Poe series.