Beth pleads with Peggy Lee to investigate to prove her innocence. Peggy, who is a botanist, teaching part time at the local college, Queens, also has a gardening business, The Potting Shed, which keeps her busy full time. Peggy at first refuses to become involved, but soon becomes suspicious of the two deaths and their connection with Park's first wife, Cindy. Peggy's life is complicated by her problems with her destructive, uncontrollable Great Dane, Shakespeare, and by her dawning love for veterinarian Steve Newsome. A widow of a police detective, Peggy is beginning to find a new life for herself.

The story is not just about solving a couple of murders, but also gives a comprehensive picture of the daily business of a garden shop. This is a course in botany, giving a detailed discussion of various plants and herbs; as well as hints on gardening and landscaping. The relationships between Peggy and Steve, and Peggy and her son, Paul, are realistic and warm. The plot is complex with enough twists and turns to lead the reader astray.

A delightful story with especial interest for anyone interested in gardening...