The Botanist’s Assistant by Peggy Townsend has my favorite type of main character. Margaret was not young, not pretty and socially inept. What she was, extremely intelligent, self reliant and curious. Margaret also grew fabulous plants in her garden and worked for a botanist as a research assistant. She has worked and was able to work independently following the death of the Botanist. Unfortunately most everyone sees the first description as compared to her positive traits.
Margaret discovers Dr. Jonathan Deaver had died in his office. This starts her off on a journey to discover what happened. Of course the local police do not believe what she thinks she has discovered. Her bosses are trying to undercut her and get rid of her, so they can take the glory.
With the help of Joe Torres, the newly hired night janitor and other quirky characters (including Tom, the stray cat), Margaret sets out to discover the truth about the murder. There are some interesting twists and turns, some unexpected help and a great reveal to keep the book moving right along.
I read this book in one sitting (except for the bathroom and feeding the animals including myself). I was drawn into the way the book presented the information especially through Margaret’s eyes. The Botanist’s Assistant by Peggy Townsend is a great read
