In this book, Poe’s friend Estelle Doyle appears to be guilty of her father’s murder. All signs point to her guilt, but she’s said just three words since her arrest: “Tell Washington Poe.”

At the same time, a poisoner known only as The Botanist is sending poems and pressed flowers to celebrities. Even though his targets get advance warning of his attentions, he or she seems to be able to kill with impunity.

In July 2023, this book was named the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year.