As part of my "new beginnings" in staying away from mysteries for a while, I'm rereading this book as I have forgotten what it's all about and I do like the title. It makes me think of spring!
The Garden of Small Beginnings by Abbi Waxman, May 2, 2017, Berkley
Here are my comments on the book, dated May 5, 2017, but I've decided to reread it.
Summary and comments: Lil, widowed for three years with two young children, is a school text illustrator in Southern California. Her boss signs her up for a vegetable growing class at the Los Angeles Botanical Garden, to prep for the next project - illustrating a series of vegetable guides the company is planning.
Lil attends the six-week class, held on Saturdays and led by gardening professor Ed Bloem. She not only benefits from gardening and meeting new people, but sees the benefits to her sister and Lil's two young children who also participate in the class.
Lil's sister-in-law Maggie arrives broken hearted by a cheating hubby and somehow the setting and the new arrangement in Lil's life help everyone around her. In the end, Lil finds a new occupation and new love, and a new acceptance of her widowhood.
I liked the story, as I love gardening, and found the vegetable growing tips in the book interesting and useful. Though parts of the plot are predictable, the reading is easy and pleasant, not only for readers who garden but anyone who likes a good romance.
Meme: It's Monday: What Are You Reading is hosted by The Book Date.
I loved this book! The author is one of my favorites. Thanks for sharing, and enjoy your week.
ReplyDeleteYes it did have some great gardening tips and was a lovely kind of community feel to it.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the review. It was a new book and author for me.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read this book, but I've read some other books by Abi Waxman and really enjoyed them. I'm going to add this one to my list. Have a great week! - Melinda @ A Web of Stories (PS - I'm sorry if this comment shows up multiple times. It won't allow me to reply with my name and URL!)
ReplyDeleteThis sounds lovely, enjoy your reread!
ReplyDeleteWishing you a great week
It's a pretty cover. I like the title too.
ReplyDeleteOh this is a new book to me - it sounds like a fun read though! I hope you enjoy it just as much the second time around!
ReplyDeleteI threw in a romance that had been languishing on TBR mountain this week too since I also felt I needed a change of pace. Come see my week here. Happy reading!
ReplyDeleteLoved this book!
ReplyDeleteJust looking at the title and the beautiful coloured cover make me smile :)
ReplyDelete