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Diana Flowers Floriculture Mysteries #2
Delphiniums and Deception
Locked in with a killer.
Arranging flowers is the only way out.
When Fergus tells Diana he’s taking her on a flower arranging retreat for her birthday, she should have been more suspicious.
Especially when he announces he’s coming with her.
After discovering the whole truth about the retreat, Diana is still considering how to murder Fergus…. when one of their fellow flower arrangers is found dead - stabbed in the back with a mystery weapon.
With the retreat on complete lockdown, Diana and Fergus have a mystery to solve that wasn’t part of the itinerary.
Will they find the killer before the clock runs out?
You’ll love this hilarious British cozy series with its floral inspiration, because everyone loves a comedy crime-fighting duo!
Read it now.
Arranging flowers is the only way out.
When Fergus tells Diana he’s taking her on a flower arranging retreat for her birthday, she should have been more suspicious.
Especially when he announces he’s coming with her.
After discovering the whole truth about the retreat, Diana is still considering how to murder Fergus…. when one of their fellow flower arrangers is found dead - stabbed in the back with a mystery weapon.
With the retreat on complete lockdown, Diana and Fergus have a mystery to solve that wasn’t part of the itinerary.
Will they find the killer before the clock runs out?
You’ll love this hilarious British cozy series with its floral inspiration, because everyone loves a comedy crime-fighting duo!
Read it now.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2018
275 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Loren
98 books127 followersRuby Loren was born and raised in East Sussex, England. She writes cozy mysteries, paranormal mysteries, and stories about rockstars. Her books are designed to take you away to a little slice of a different world, often set in a rural corner of South East England. Full of ideas, she is always busy writing her next bestseller!
Ruby is the author of the Madigan Amos cozy mysteries, a funny, twisty series that stars zookeeper, Madigan Amos, and is set in Sussex. She has many other cozy mystery series under her belt, including the Blooming series, the Emily Haversson Mysteries, the Hayley Argent Mysteries, and the Holly Winter Mysteries, all set in England.
The themes of her books range from cunning, twisty plots, to slightly silly, humorous mysteries, designed to make you laugh. Her books are perfect for readers, who love to get a know a character, and like to look on the lighter side of life.
Ruby still lives near Brighton, in East Sussex, with her fox-fighting, bird-murdering cat, Jasper. When she’s not writing, she’s travelling the world with her musical duo, Rumours, playing electric guitar and singing lead vocals.
To find out more about Ruby and pick up 3 free books, visit her website: www.rubyloren.com
Ruby is the author of the Madigan Amos cozy mysteries, a funny, twisty series that stars zookeeper, Madigan Amos, and is set in Sussex. She has many other cozy mystery series under her belt, including the Blooming series, the Emily Haversson Mysteries, the Hayley Argent Mysteries, and the Holly Winter Mysteries, all set in England.
The themes of her books range from cunning, twisty plots, to slightly silly, humorous mysteries, designed to make you laugh. Her books are perfect for readers, who love to get a know a character, and like to look on the lighter side of life.
Ruby still lives near Brighton, in East Sussex, with her fox-fighting, bird-murdering cat, Jasper. When she’s not writing, she’s travelling the world with her musical duo, Rumours, playing electric guitar and singing lead vocals.
To find out more about Ruby and pick up 3 free books, visit her website: www.rubyloren.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
November 21, 2018
I’m loving this new series. Diana and her friend, Fergus, attend an intense flower arranging retreat. They are allowed no contact with the outside world, which becomes a problem when one of the participants is murdered. Very cleverly plotted, well written, and filled with interesting characters. I received a free copy of this book and chose to make a voluntary, unbiased review.
December 6, 2018
The language of flowers with vibes of Agatha Christie
Another winner. Loved the plot that had vibes of Agatha Christie and the way she used her 'little grey cells ' to get the answers. The characters have really gotten much better than the first book. More vibrant and rich.
She has managed to move her operation to a new site and business is starting to take off now that she no longer has to worry about the pests in the soil. With her birthday coming up, she's surprised by an unexpected gift from Fergus. A flower arranging course at a former military base. However the conditions that the course follows are strict. All 10 participants have to complete the tasks satisfactorily so that the whole group can move onto the next one. With no electronic gadgetry and with the base on lock down until the three day course is finished. After their first day everyone retires to sleep however several times she is woken from slumber. Once to see a figure running away and another time by a crashing sound. When one of their group is found dead, she and Fergus start investigating. Can they find out what happened to the dead woman? Why does she keep getting diverted to the woman's past? Will the answer become clear as to who and why? Will either she or Fergus actually learn anything from the course?
Another winner. Loved the plot that had vibes of Agatha Christie and the way she used her 'little grey cells ' to get the answers. The characters have really gotten much better than the first book. More vibrant and rich.
She has managed to move her operation to a new site and business is starting to take off now that she no longer has to worry about the pests in the soil. With her birthday coming up, she's surprised by an unexpected gift from Fergus. A flower arranging course at a former military base. However the conditions that the course follows are strict. All 10 participants have to complete the tasks satisfactorily so that the whole group can move onto the next one. With no electronic gadgetry and with the base on lock down until the three day course is finished. After their first day everyone retires to sleep however several times she is woken from slumber. Once to see a figure running away and another time by a crashing sound. When one of their group is found dead, she and Fergus start investigating. Can they find out what happened to the dead woman? Why does she keep getting diverted to the woman's past? Will the answer become clear as to who and why? Will either she or Fergus actually learn anything from the course?
January 7, 2019
Sometimes it doesn't matter if an author writes about lions, Winter, unicorns or flowers, all are equally fascinating! That goes for Ruby Loren. I've read several books from different series and I loved them all! You read a few pages and you're hooked. You just want to know what happens. Fascinating and sometimes funny characters in weird and suspicious circumstances.
Diana and Fergus just make a great sleuthing couple. Too bad Diggory had to stay at home...
I received a copy and chose to review it.
Diana and Fergus just make a great sleuthing couple. Too bad Diggory had to stay at home...
I received a copy and chose to review it.
May 25, 2021
This was quite a twist and turn sort of book.
I must admit the killer surprised me.
I must admit the killer surprised me.
November 23, 2018
This is the second book in the Diana Flowers Floriculture Cozy Mystery series. After events of book one, Diana has moved home and her new home has kept her busy, with planting new fields of flowers for her business. A friend she made in the previous book, Fergus, was the one who informed her of the bad soil on her land and after her plants kept dying, she had to sell up and relocate her business. Her new site seems to be working well and her business is finally picking back up after nearly failing completely with her previous seasons blooms, or lack of!
As her birthday (29th) comes closer, her friend Fergus comes round with a surprise for her birthday. All he will tell her is that is has something to do with flower arranging, something she wants to learn more about. What he doesn’t tell her, is where this weekend event is taking place, nor how it is being run! She should have thought this was suspicious, especially with his normal ‘conspiracy theory’ beliefs about everything he does, and even more so, when he says he is going with her.
When the retreat begins, they find themselves locked in, with no means of communication, in a location not exactly conducive to flower arranging and a strange mix of participants. They have to work together to work through each task on their flower arranging itinerary and can’t proceed until they all pass. During their first night in the premises, one of their group is killed and Diana tries to solve the murder before she or any of the other people in the group get killed. The victim was stabbed in the back, whilst in bed, with a strange implement. Could one of their number be a murderer or is someone else locked in with them?
Add in all the strange tasks that they have to undertake in their course of flower arranging and the odd way in which it is lead and being taught, and you have an intriguing mystery to read. You also have the murder and the exploration of the murder scene to be done, with everyone trying to point the blame at one another. Lots of twists and strange turns in the plot and it turns out quite unlike what you may expect.
Parts are really funny and it is what I class as an ‘easy’ read. There is no effort needed to read or enjoy it. The plot is not confused with odd characters popping in and out or told in a weird manner. It is exactly what it says it is and thoroughly enjoyable. I have loved reading the Madi Amos Zoo series and also the start of this series and its prequel story. Hopefully there will be many more books to follow in the series.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
As her birthday (29th) comes closer, her friend Fergus comes round with a surprise for her birthday. All he will tell her is that is has something to do with flower arranging, something she wants to learn more about. What he doesn’t tell her, is where this weekend event is taking place, nor how it is being run! She should have thought this was suspicious, especially with his normal ‘conspiracy theory’ beliefs about everything he does, and even more so, when he says he is going with her.
When the retreat begins, they find themselves locked in, with no means of communication, in a location not exactly conducive to flower arranging and a strange mix of participants. They have to work together to work through each task on their flower arranging itinerary and can’t proceed until they all pass. During their first night in the premises, one of their group is killed and Diana tries to solve the murder before she or any of the other people in the group get killed. The victim was stabbed in the back, whilst in bed, with a strange implement. Could one of their number be a murderer or is someone else locked in with them?
Add in all the strange tasks that they have to undertake in their course of flower arranging and the odd way in which it is lead and being taught, and you have an intriguing mystery to read. You also have the murder and the exploration of the murder scene to be done, with everyone trying to point the blame at one another. Lots of twists and strange turns in the plot and it turns out quite unlike what you may expect.
Parts are really funny and it is what I class as an ‘easy’ read. There is no effort needed to read or enjoy it. The plot is not confused with odd characters popping in and out or told in a weird manner. It is exactly what it says it is and thoroughly enjoyable. I have loved reading the Madi Amos Zoo series and also the start of this series and its prequel story. Hopefully there will be many more books to follow in the series.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
November 20, 2018
Delphiniums and Deception #2 - This story had me so immersed in it that I just let it carry me along. The bunker had overtures of several sources, including the Saw series, so I saw several ways this could have worked out. Several people in a isolated location with a murderer and the deceased. But Ms. Loren made this theme her own and unique, and it was hard to put the book down. I figured out three possible murderers, but I missed.
I liked the way the Floral Arrangement retreat was arranged; and certainly enjoyed the punishment feature of the classes. There are many interesting storylines for the characters. Fergus really shined brightly in this story, from his heartwarming gift to his ability to surprise. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
Diana Flowers series:
The Florist and the Funeral #0 - The prequel to the Diana Flowers series. A quickly read, fun story about a chemist, with a high IQ, interested in growing and selling flowers to meet the growing demand. Along the way there's a death, which she solves since she is smarter than the old Lt. There's quite a bit going on in this novella and the "killer" is a big surprise and not what you expect. Another series that may be the match for Madi's zoo series. I contacted the author to review her books and received this one. 5*
Gardenias and a Grave Mistake #1 - My favorite series by this author is the Madi Amos Zoo Mysteries, but this is an interesting series so far. The prequel should be read first to get the foundation, The Florist and the Funeral. I like both Fergus and Diana; they're perfectly matched to each other, tin-foil hat optional. The other characters worked in their roles. The story took a little bit to get rolling but it did get interesting and had some good twists. Diggory is a character all of his own. I was disappointed that Di let the nematodes get to her; there's an easy, nonpoisonous fix to get rid of those critters, but there's always a change that works out better in the end as I found with Madi's series. Included with the story is a free offering of the prequel and a list of edible flowers. I contacted the author to review her book. 4.5*
Diana Flowers series end.
I liked the way the Floral Arrangement retreat was arranged; and certainly enjoyed the punishment feature of the classes. There are many interesting storylines for the characters. Fergus really shined brightly in this story, from his heartwarming gift to his ability to surprise. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
Diana Flowers series:
The Florist and the Funeral #0 - The prequel to the Diana Flowers series. A quickly read, fun story about a chemist, with a high IQ, interested in growing and selling flowers to meet the growing demand. Along the way there's a death, which she solves since she is smarter than the old Lt. There's quite a bit going on in this novella and the "killer" is a big surprise and not what you expect. Another series that may be the match for Madi's zoo series. I contacted the author to review her books and received this one. 5*
Gardenias and a Grave Mistake #1 - My favorite series by this author is the Madi Amos Zoo Mysteries, but this is an interesting series so far. The prequel should be read first to get the foundation, The Florist and the Funeral. I like both Fergus and Diana; they're perfectly matched to each other, tin-foil hat optional. The other characters worked in their roles. The story took a little bit to get rolling but it did get interesting and had some good twists. Diggory is a character all of his own. I was disappointed that Di let the nematodes get to her; there's an easy, nonpoisonous fix to get rid of those critters, but there's always a change that works out better in the end as I found with Madi's series. Included with the story is a free offering of the prequel and a list of edible flowers. I contacted the author to review her book. 4.5*
Diana Flowers series end.
November 21, 2018
I really like Ruby Loren's cosy mystery books, she always manages to bring an original twist to her story lines and her characters are always very believable and well written, she also obviously carries out a lot of research before she writes, in this series it is about plants and flowers, and in this book in particular there is a focus on poisonous plants.
This book is up to standard on all these aspects, she writes confidently and accurately about the plants and flowers encountered in the story and the characters feel as if she is writing about real people that she knows. The plot is certainly unique in its setting, although the storyline is obviously inspired by the Agatha Christie 'Ten Little Indians' (now re-titled to 'And Then There Were None'). I also really liked the rather unlikely, but very genuine friendship between Diana and Fergus which progresses nicely in this book. The way the mystery developed and was solved was also ingenious.
However, despite these positives, for me it wasn't quite as enjoyable as the previous books in this series, or the Madigan Amos books. This is down to a couple of things, firstly I found that having the 10 other people on the 'course' all introduced at once made it a bit difficult to remember who was who and what their relationship with each other was; secondly the fact that in this day and age there was no emergency contact with the outside world is inconceivable (although the reason for this did become obvious at the end); and finally I just found the whole concept of a flower arranging course in an ex military bunker was really just rather bizarre.
So an original, enjoyable read which can be read as a stand-alone but also fits well into the series. I am looking forward to the next book and seeing what adventures Diana and Fergus have.
This book is up to standard on all these aspects, she writes confidently and accurately about the plants and flowers encountered in the story and the characters feel as if she is writing about real people that she knows. The plot is certainly unique in its setting, although the storyline is obviously inspired by the Agatha Christie 'Ten Little Indians' (now re-titled to 'And Then There Were None'). I also really liked the rather unlikely, but very genuine friendship between Diana and Fergus which progresses nicely in this book. The way the mystery developed and was solved was also ingenious.
However, despite these positives, for me it wasn't quite as enjoyable as the previous books in this series, or the Madigan Amos books. This is down to a couple of things, firstly I found that having the 10 other people on the 'course' all introduced at once made it a bit difficult to remember who was who and what their relationship with each other was; secondly the fact that in this day and age there was no emergency contact with the outside world is inconceivable (although the reason for this did become obvious at the end); and finally I just found the whole concept of a flower arranging course in an ex military bunker was really just rather bizarre.
So an original, enjoyable read which can be read as a stand-alone but also fits well into the series. I am looking forward to the next book and seeing what adventures Diana and Fergus have.
May 21, 2022
I loved this book. I really enjoy books were the murder happens behind locked doors and you have to figure out it happened, so this was a real treat. I love the twist of having to do flower arranging while solving the mystery. Don't worry if you don't know your lilies from your orchids because while the author used her knowledge or researched her subject well she doesn't confuse the reader by giving complicated Latin names or great descriptions, just enough to wonder if my hungry puppy is safe in the garden. I really liked the characters especially the conspiracy friend Fergus, he played his part in the mystery well and had me chuckling. The mystery kept me guessing and I really enjoyed the uniqueness of the plot, I certainly didn't come up with the killer. Good job Diana was on the case because I think I would still be Locked in. It is a fun mystery and one I would add to my audio book collection and the author onto my must read list.
For her up coming birthday Diana is given a weekend away course of flower arranging by her good friend Fergus but when she learns he plans to attend as well she wonders what is he really up to. With no information and after signing a waiver she wonders what she has let herself in for, especially when her phone gets taken away. To survive the weekend the group of strangers must work together to over come challenges of face the consequences. Extreme learning has never been so dangerous when one of participants is killed during the first night and they are all served food with a poisonous plant in and they have to figure out which is safe to eat. Diana and Fergus will have to learn everything about there fellow course goers as well as flowers if they want to get out a live. Could one of them be a killer or was the secure bunker not so Locked up? And just why did Fergus really want to come on the course?
For her up coming birthday Diana is given a weekend away course of flower arranging by her good friend Fergus but when she learns he plans to attend as well she wonders what is he really up to. With no information and after signing a waiver she wonders what she has let herself in for, especially when her phone gets taken away. To survive the weekend the group of strangers must work together to over come challenges of face the consequences. Extreme learning has never been so dangerous when one of participants is killed during the first night and they are all served food with a poisonous plant in and they have to figure out which is safe to eat. Diana and Fergus will have to learn everything about there fellow course goers as well as flowers if they want to get out a live. Could one of them be a killer or was the secure bunker not so Locked up? And just why did Fergus really want to come on the course?
June 22, 2019
A cozy friend type novel of two friends who always are opposite poles in everything. Diana owns a flower shop she has recently opened and has new owner jitters. Fergus,a rather laid back individual who investigates things about extraterrestrial or conspirators, is a frequent drop-in to her shop and very occasional helper. One day Fergus shows up with the announcement that he has a gift for her birthday and he will go along on the trip. Ending up at an decommissioned bunker where the supposedly flower arranging workshop will take place, Diane immediately knows Fergus has alternative reasons for being there and flowers are not the reason. As they settle in, read the rules and scheduled events, the participants are told the reason behind the class is to teach partnership among the florists and encourage new thoughts in their work. That is fine until one particularly snooty Christine is found dead in her room, secrets start to emerge in small comments. No phones, no departures, no emergency options make for a detective solution by Diane and Fergus. Quite interesting as clues are discovered and point to everyone as subjects. The reader is also involved as detective and true answers are surprising. Enjoyable read for a lazy day or getaway moment. I received this free book to review and post my own opinions. I like the characters and the story is well paced.
November 20, 2018
When ambitions to perfect your 💐flower-arranging skills turn deadly!😱
November 20, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍4 and a bit 🌟stars
🔎A good yarn with flower-seller amateur sleuth Diana Flowers and her pesky sidekick Fergus mixed up in a murder who-dun-it that has shades of Agatha Christie's Ten Little Indians (aka And Then There Were None) as a group gets sequestered for a harrowing weekend in a bunker with a dead body! I liked the way author Loren handled the big reveal of the planning and reason for the murder. I also learned a bit more about deadly and noxious plants (hope it's knowledge that NEVER comes in handy!)
The idea of a sequestered 💐flower arranging course and the payback for badly completed challenges was original if a bit odd. And Fergus's goal in taking Diana to the course seemed a bit forced. However, the detecting heart of the story is classic cozy mystery fare and kept me guessing, as it should. And the developing friendship between Diana and Fergus made it a sort of a 👫 buddy adventure as well. An enjoyable read.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 20, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍4 and a bit 🌟stars
🔎A good yarn with flower-seller amateur sleuth Diana Flowers and her pesky sidekick Fergus mixed up in a murder who-dun-it that has shades of Agatha Christie's Ten Little Indians (aka And Then There Were None) as a group gets sequestered for a harrowing weekend in a bunker with a dead body! I liked the way author Loren handled the big reveal of the planning and reason for the murder. I also learned a bit more about deadly and noxious plants (hope it's knowledge that NEVER comes in handy!)
The idea of a sequestered 💐flower arranging course and the payback for badly completed challenges was original if a bit odd. And Fergus's goal in taking Diana to the course seemed a bit forced. However, the detecting heart of the story is classic cozy mystery fare and kept me guessing, as it should. And the developing friendship between Diana and Fergus made it a sort of a 👫 buddy adventure as well. An enjoyable read.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 20, 2018
This is book two in the author's new series and you just can't put it down once you start reading. The unlikely friendship dynamic between Fergus and Diana is fun and when he wants to surprise Diana for her birthday by taking her to a flower arranging retreat, she doesn't know what she is in for! Being locked away in a bunker for this retreat has its surprises since there is a murder and Diana and Fergus is locked away with not only the corpse, but the murderer as well. As I began reading, I couldn't put the book down as one chapter lead you to the next and so on. I thought I had it all figured out a few times, but I was wrong and was really surprised at the ending. Diana is a strong and wilful character, yet very likeable and well developed. Fergus is a bit of an eccentric type who acts and reacts sometimes in very strange ways which makes Diana want to string him up, but they work well together in trying to put the pieces together before becoming the victims themselves. I love this new series and can't wait to see what other craziness the two main characters find themselves in! I received and ARC from the author, but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
November 21, 2018
Fergus is taking Diana to a weekend flower arranging class as a birthday present. He is going along. He must have an ulterior motive. When they arrive they must give up all their electronic devices. Then the entire place is locked up. No one can get in or out. No radio or TV. No phones. The first night someone is murdered. No way to contact police. Now they are locked in with a dead body and a killer. Who might be next? This story remined me of an Agatha Christie novel. However, Ruby made this story all her own. Who is the killer? Will Diana be able to figure it out? Will the group pass all the challenges? How bad will the punishment be if they don't? Will there be a romantic interest betweem Diana and Fergus?
This is well thought out and very well written as are all Ruby's books. This can be read as a stand alone or as part of the series. I loved the Zoo series and I love this just as much.
I voluntarily received this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
This is well thought out and very well written as are all Ruby's books. This can be read as a stand alone or as part of the series. I loved the Zoo series and I love this just as much.
I voluntarily received this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
November 21, 2018
A surprise birthday present for Diana. Fergus gives Diana a birthday present that is a three day course on flowers. This begins the adventure that Diana is not sure she really wants. What’s Fergus motive for this extravagant gift? There has to be something else he has in mind. The course starts with ten people that have nothing in common except for their love of flowers. It is a strange group of people. The first day proves to be tense and then that night, a murder. But with the site locked up tight, who is the murderer? Diana’s mind starts to whirl. She and Fergus work together to find answers. The group of invited guests are the suspects and there appears to be no connection to one another. But who could have done it and why? Diana has two days to solve the murder. Fergus passes the course and Diana solves the mystery just in time. Read to discover how Diana discovers who among all the guests and two guides committed the murder and why. A great mystery with so many suspects, it was had to figure out. A great book.
November 21, 2018
Diana's cut flower business was beginning to finally turn a profit and settle into a proper livelihood for her. Her stall at the farmer's market was doing well and she also sources out her blooms to several florists but it was the big events, like weddings when she supplied the bouquets and arrangements that were her big earners so when her friend, Fergus surprised her with a learn-hot-to-do-flower-arranging weekend, she was thrilled to bits. Improving her flower arranging skills would certainly help her business no end. But what she did not bargain for was a locked down, high pressure tutorial, nor a dead body after the first day. I guess what she did not bargain for was a totally Fergus experience - unusual, quirky, unexpected, suspicious and potentially disastrous.
Another fun read from Ruby Loren. I must admit that I do like Fergus, in spite of his annoying and possibly self-centered bits because I think at the end of the day, he does care for Diana and will have her back, as a proper friend would. I received an ARC and this is my honest review
Another fun read from Ruby Loren. I must admit that I do like Fergus, in spite of his annoying and possibly self-centered bits because I think at the end of the day, he does care for Diana and will have her back, as a proper friend would. I received an ARC and this is my honest review
November 30, 2018
Intriguing
A really intriguing mystery. Fergus has enrolled Diana and himself into an Extreme Floral Arranging camp. Of course, it just happens to be held in a bunker that is reputed to have been an alien research facility, at one time. The course gets off too a good start but during the early morning hours, one of the participants is murdered. They can't leave the bunker for two more days. That's when Diana decides to put on her Deerstalker and find the murderer. There is a lot to learn and not much time in which to solve the mystery.
Extremely well written with engaging characters (such as the well meaning but flighty Fergus). You will be trying to solve this one but the ending is beyond your wildest imaginings.
A really intriguing mystery. Fergus has enrolled Diana and himself into an Extreme Floral Arranging camp. Of course, it just happens to be held in a bunker that is reputed to have been an alien research facility, at one time. The course gets off too a good start but during the early morning hours, one of the participants is murdered. They can't leave the bunker for two more days. That's when Diana decides to put on her Deerstalker and find the murderer. There is a lot to learn and not much time in which to solve the mystery.
Extremely well written with engaging characters (such as the well meaning but flighty Fergus). You will be trying to solve this one but the ending is beyond your wildest imaginings.
January 28, 2020
What? No phones or electronics?!
Dianna’s conspiracy theory friend, Ferguson, arranged for them to attend a floral arrangement weekend for her birthday. Dianna was suspicious as she knew Ferguson had absolutely no interest in arranging flowers. The draw for him was that it was to take place at an old bunker known for possible government alien encounters! The other big surprise was that it was a locked-down weekend with no outside contact, strictly enforced! As the weekend progresses it turns out to be both a team building and competitive. When one of the attendees is murdered and they have no way to contact the police, Diana starts asking questions. Will she figure it out? Are they all in danger. Can you figure it out first? Read to find out and enjoy!!
Dianna’s conspiracy theory friend, Ferguson, arranged for them to attend a floral arrangement weekend for her birthday. Dianna was suspicious as she knew Ferguson had absolutely no interest in arranging flowers. The draw for him was that it was to take place at an old bunker known for possible government alien encounters! The other big surprise was that it was a locked-down weekend with no outside contact, strictly enforced! As the weekend progresses it turns out to be both a team building and competitive. When one of the attendees is murdered and they have no way to contact the police, Diana starts asking questions. Will she figure it out? Are they all in danger. Can you figure it out first? Read to find out and enjoy!!
November 20, 2018
Fergus takes Diana to a retreat for flower design. Diana is certain that Fergus has ulterior motives. When they arrive at the compound, Diana's fears are confirmed. but the joke is on Fergus. They are locked inside one section of the compound without anyway to contact the outside world.
When one of the competitors is murdered inside her locked room, It's up to Diana to figure out what's going on before she herself, or one of the other participants joins the first in the garden of eternity.
Another fun story with a good bit of humor, and some quick thinking on the part of the investigators.
When one of the competitors is murdered inside her locked room, It's up to Diana to figure out what's going on before she herself, or one of the other participants joins the first in the garden of eternity.
Another fun story with a good bit of humor, and some quick thinking on the part of the investigators.
November 20, 2018
Oh, but how much I love this series! Diana is such a wonderful character, and I love the way her mind works :)
When the book begins, Diana has a new land plot and the fact that all the gossip about the happenings from the last book brought her a lot of clients is something she's more than happy to take. But now, thanks to Fergus, she is trapped for three days in a flower's arranging retreat. And, of course, there is a murder!
From then on, the plot unravels in the usual fantastic way that all Ruby Loren's books have and gives us a book truly engaging, that will keep you hooked until the surprising end.
When the book begins, Diana has a new land plot and the fact that all the gossip about the happenings from the last book brought her a lot of clients is something she's more than happy to take. But now, thanks to Fergus, she is trapped for three days in a flower's arranging retreat. And, of course, there is a murder!
From then on, the plot unravels in the usual fantastic way that all Ruby Loren's books have and gives us a book truly engaging, that will keep you hooked until the surprising end.
November 20, 2018
As always, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author always has a great mystery to be solved. In this book Diana's birthday is on the coming weekend and Fergus has signed them both up for a flower arranging course, as his gift to her. Fifty two hours of being locked into a bunker, with no communication with the outside, with days filled with high pressure challenges. Diana wondered what he had got them into. The first night they were there one of the other people was murdered. With no way to call the police, Diana had to try and solve the mystery at the same time as doing the challenges of the course. It was not the fun course she had thought she was attending.
November 21, 2018
I very much enjoyed reading this newest entry into the series. The premise for it was a new one to me - locked room flower arranging. It's a really inventive way to start the story out.
This is a solidly written story. The characters are well-drawn and the storyline for this entry into the series is neatly plotted. I had a good time reading it, even though it's not quite what you've come to expect from this author. It's good to see a different approach to this one.
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of the book and just had to have it for my library. I can definitely recommend it to you.
This is a solidly written story. The characters are well-drawn and the storyline for this entry into the series is neatly plotted. I had a good time reading it, even though it's not quite what you've come to expect from this author. It's good to see a different approach to this one.
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of the book and just had to have it for my library. I can definitely recommend it to you.
November 22, 2018
Now why would a conspiracy nut like Fergus want to go on a flower arranging course? Perhaps because it's being held in a secret bunker with UFO connections? The organizers of the course have clearly taken their cue from reality television – the rule is, cooperate and complete your tasks or be punished in various absurd ways. The real-life drama of murder makes their artificial dramatics look rather silly, but the group has no way to communicate with the outside world while the course continues. Egged on by Fergus, Diana investigates and finds an overabundance of clues. This highly entertaining mystery hits all the right notes and is tremendous fun.
November 24, 2018
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily providing my honest review.
What in the world has Fergus gotten Diana into? For her birthday he takes her to a flower arranging weekend even though she knows he has no interest in such a thing. Sure enough when they arrive, she finds out it's being held at an old army bunker that Fergus has always wanted to explore. One of their fellow arrangers is murdered, but police can't be called or told for 2 more days because this weekend is all about being locked down with no outside communication. This is a great Diana Flowers story and I recommend it.
What in the world has Fergus gotten Diana into? For her birthday he takes her to a flower arranging weekend even though she knows he has no interest in such a thing. Sure enough when they arrive, she finds out it's being held at an old army bunker that Fergus has always wanted to explore. One of their fellow arrangers is murdered, but police can't be called or told for 2 more days because this weekend is all about being locked down with no outside communication. This is a great Diana Flowers story and I recommend it.
November 25, 2018
Fergus decides to surprise Diana with a flower arranging retreat for her birthday, which should have put up red flags for an ulterior motive. They soon discover that they are locked in for a few days without communication to the outside world with a dead body. The only way to escape is to complete the floral arranging challenges and solve the murder before the murderer strikes again.
I love the yin-yang personalities of Diana and Fergus along with their unique friendship. This is a delightful and hilarious cozy mystery filled with lots of madcap adventure, mystery, intrigue, and twists and turns. It is a mystery that will have you guessing all the way until the end as to whodunit and why!
I love the yin-yang personalities of Diana and Fergus along with their unique friendship. This is a delightful and hilarious cozy mystery filled with lots of madcap adventure, mystery, intrigue, and twists and turns. It is a mystery that will have you guessing all the way until the end as to whodunit and why!
January 17, 2019
This is the second ARC book that I've read in the Diana Flowers Mysteries. I love the way Ms Loren keeps the consistany in her characters. These are real fun loving murder stories that keep you wanting more. I appreciate the fact that there is non of the unnecessary fillers like sex and swearing. Sex is okey as long as it is used appropriately. And in Lorens books it would be completely unnecessary as she doesn't need to fill pages with rubbish to tell her stories. This book gave a real good solutions to issues in the story. I love Fergus. He is the perfect side kick.
Keep up the good work and looking forward to the next.
Cheers
Lynn
Keep up the good work and looking forward to the next.
Cheers
Lynn
November 14, 2018
Delphiniums and Deception is the latest Diana Flowers floriculture mystery. I really enjoyed this one - and never figured it out. Fergus takes Diana to a very strange flower arranging course as a birthday gift. How strange will be explained when you read this wonderful mystery. Of course one of the attendees is murdered the first night. Attendees had to surrender all electronic devices before the course began. Now they are locked in until the course ends and someone is a killer. I did not get much else done until I finished this one!
November 21, 2018
My favorite character Diggory and his buddy Barkimeds are back in Ruby’s new cozy. If you read the last story you would remember about the land given to Diana well she has decided to sell and move to a new place. Fergus is again in our story looking for a vampire and a golden coffin a really interesting character our conspiracy nut is. Then the unexpected happens and we are off. This story was so imaginative and unique I adored it. If you want a different mystery this is the one to pick up. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
December 17, 2018
Nice deviation from the locked room mystery. they are locked in the room and need to work together to figure out the mystery. Never saw the ending coming.
Missed book one in this series so I can say that the book can be read by itself (standalone) very well. Although , there was a comment made that I would like to go back and read book one to get more details on.
This is my honest and freely given review. i did receive an ARC book. My apologies to the author for the lateness of this review.
Missed book one in this series so I can say that the book can be read by itself (standalone) very well. Although , there was a comment made that I would like to go back and read book one to get more details on.
This is my honest and freely given review. i did receive an ARC book. My apologies to the author for the lateness of this review.
April 18, 2019
Fergus gifts Diana a floral design course for her birthday. He attends as well, since the location is right up his conspiracy theory alley. The two join several others for a lock down, intensive floral design course. The group of 10 must work together to get through the various challenges and process on. But what happens when one of ten is murdered the first night? Diana and Fergus work the clues until Diana confronts everyone and all is revealed.
Characters are strong. Good stand alone or series.
Characters are strong. Good stand alone or series.
September 4, 2019
Interesting
Diana and Fergus certainly did make an odd couple as friends, they seemed to be friends due to each ones qualities and admired each other's strengths which is what drew them to be friends. The storyline was quite different from what I've read so it kept and held my interest, the climax of the book came in at the perfect time , ( not the murder) it really gave insight as to how each person in the book had a reason or reasons to remove Christine from the contest. A story that makes you think .
Diana and Fergus certainly did make an odd couple as friends, they seemed to be friends due to each ones qualities and admired each other's strengths which is what drew them to be friends. The storyline was quite different from what I've read so it kept and held my interest, the climax of the book came in at the perfect time , ( not the murder) it really gave insight as to how each person in the book had a reason or reasons to remove Christine from the contest. A story that makes you think .
February 26, 2022
3.5*
Fergus is definitely my favourite character of this series, and I liked the idea of the weird almost competitive floristry course with lots of challenges as a backdrop to the murder. The plot twist is something many of us have seen before and it’s fairly easy to predict, but I like the writing style, characters and setting enough not to be bored throughout after predicting the ending. Would probably say I prefer this book over the first, because of the fun gimmick (even if I had to suspend my disbelief a bit to believe in such a weird course).
Fergus is definitely my favourite character of this series, and I liked the idea of the weird almost competitive floristry course with lots of challenges as a backdrop to the murder. The plot twist is something many of us have seen before and it’s fairly easy to predict, but I like the writing style, characters and setting enough not to be bored throughout after predicting the ending. Would probably say I prefer this book over the first, because of the fun gimmick (even if I had to suspend my disbelief a bit to believe in such a weird course).
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