Botanist and teacher Dr. Peggy Lee is back in an outstanding who-done-it. After speaking at a conference about the possible benefits of tobacco, Peggy runs into an old friend outside her hotel. Although the two are on opposite sides of environmental issues, Peggy and Park have a history, and she's concerned at how unwell he looks. When Park is killed in a car accident, Peggy fears there may be more to his death. When another death soon follows and Park's wife Beth is arrested, Peggy's detective instincts kick in, and she's determined to find the real killer before the wrong person is convicted.

Peggy is helped in her investigation by several friends and co-workers. Readers will enjoy the antics of her adopted dog, Shakespeare. Her romance with vet-next-door Steve is going strong, and she and her son continue to work on getting their relationship back on a more even keel. Even Nightflyer is back, challenging Peggy at chess and with cryptic clues.

I love the world of Dr. Peggy Lee! The Lavenes have a wonderful way of drawing their readers into the world of well-rounded and sympathetic characters. The plot of FRUIT OF THE POISONED TREE is well-crafted with a satisfying end that will leave readers wanting more!