Book Blurb Friday #5 A little more than a little

This meme is hosted by Lisa Ricard Claro at ‘Writing in the Buff’ J

 Each week she posts a photo that could be the cover of a book. The aim is to:

‘Write a book jacket blurb (150 words or less) so enticing that potential readers would feel compelled to buy the book.’

Click here to read more blurbs. 

Photo copyright Joey Claro

A little more than a little is by much too much

Botanist Stephen Beaumont has travelled the world seeking new species. He is astonished one day to discover that an unusual plant has appeared overnight on a tree in his garden. Thinking that some of his students are playing a prank he ignores it but by the next day the tree is swathed in rosy inflorescences that give off an offensive, sickening odour.

Insects are attracted but fall dead after visiting. Inspecting the flowers Professor Beaumont finds they do not resemble anything he has ever seen. Despite his routine hygiene practice he develops an unsightly rash and breathing difficulties. 

Collapsing at work he is rushed into hospital.  Mystified medical staff urgently seek some way of alleviating his suffering. Conventional medicine has no effect – could homeopathy be the answer? Medical consultant and alternative practitioners come head to head. 

Will professional pride prevent compromise? Will Stephen Beaumont survive? Where did the flowers originate?

(150  words excluding title)