Violet Tendencies by Kate Dyer-Seeley Book Review
Violet Tendencies by Kate Dyer-Seeley Book Review
The lowdown from Goodreads
Publication Date November 27, 2018
Who could object to a flower festival?
Britta Johnston and her aunt Elin are delighted that their Portland floral boutique is part of the city’s Rose Festival, which draws thousands to the Pacific Northwest for dragon boat races, fireworks, and other attractions–capped off by a big parade. They’re building a float that’s sure to rock the judge’s boat . . . until a gang of angry protestors shows up. The group, who call themselves Dark Fusion, are decidedly not into flower power, and they want to take down the system . . . including the upcoming extravaganza.
Then their leader is strangled with a garland of violets–and Britta finds the body. With tensions running high and so much at stake, there are plenty of suspects, from the Grand Marshal to a longtime volunteer to a former Rose Queen. But before Britta and Elin can stem the violence, the case is going to get even more explosive . . .
Violet Tendencies by Kate Dyer-Seeley Book Review
Violet Tendencies is a fantastic follow-up to Natural Thorn Killer. This series takes place in Portland, Oregon & I love it. The author paints a cozy yet suspenseful tale that hits very close to my newfound PNW home.
Riots in the Rose City
Not to get too far off the subject but Portland has its fair share of riots & protests. After the 2016 election, the protests really ramped up. It’s a real issue in the city. One group shows up & another group is right there to face off with them.
In Violet Tendencies, the group causing issues for the city & more specifically the mayor is Dark Fusion. Every year, Portland has a huge celebration with many events during the Rose Festival. It’s a big deal & the floats are no joke. So, when Dark Fusion takes aim at “the man” & tries to ruin the celebration of Portland, it’s an attack on the heart of the city.
New Romances
Yes, this is a cozy mystery, but thankfully there is a bit of romance thrown in to keep my heart racing. We met Britta & Elin in Natural Thorn Killer & I love getting to know each of them better in Violet Tendencies. We finally meet Elin’s long lost love, Eric. Britta gets a bit closer to finding love again in the Rose City, but I don’t want to spoil too much. While this is a mystery at heart, the romances make fantastic cameos & lighten the mood.
THE VERDICT
I am Really Into This book! While I really enjoyed the first in the series, Natural Thorn Killer, I think I enjoyed Violet Tendencies even more. The author writes a solid mystery with twists & turns. The characters are relatable & I love continuing with characters I meet in previous novels. It feels like I’m revisiting old friends. All in all, Violet Tendencies is an enjoyable cozy mystery & I’m looking forward to more books in the Rose City Mystery Series.
Special thanks to Kate E. Dyer-Seeley / Ellie Alexander & Kensington Books for providing our copy in exchange for an honest & fair review.
Read an excerpt of Violet Tendencies by Kate Dyer-Seeley here.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Kate E. Dyer-Seeley / Ellie Alexander
Ellie Alexander (also known as Kate Dyer-Seeley) is a Pacific Northwest native. Her love for the Pacific Northwest runs deep. Hence why all of her books (whether she’s writing as Ellie or Kate) are set here. From the Shakespearean hamlet of Ashland, Oregon to the Bavarian village of Leavenworth, Washington to the hipster mecca of Portland, Oregon and a variety of other stunning outdoor locales, the Pacific Northwest is a backdrop for every book and almost becomes another character in each series.
When not writing, you can find her testing pastry recipes in her home kitchen or at one of the many famed coffeehouse or brewpubs nearby. You’ll also find her outside exploring hiking trails and trying to burn off calories consumed in the name of “research”.
Ellie loves hearing from readers and interacting on social media. Be sure to follow her to learn about her writing process, upcoming books, special events, giveaways, and more! Also, sign up for her e-mail newsletter to stay up to date on new releases, appearances, and exclusive content & recipes.