My first note I made about this book was ‘the writing is very flowery, which makes sense as it’s centered around a garden.’ The ‘flowery language’ stayed throughout the book and although at first it didn’t annoy me, as I continued reading I found myself constantly tempted to skim-read as I learned most paragraphs weren’t giving me anything new.

Although an overall interesting idea for a story … yet it fell flat for me.

Other reviewers mentioned there were too many low moments, I’d say there wasn’t enough! It’s a gothic magical realism story, it’s supposed to be dark and sad.

For me, there was something about this book that didn’t ‘click’. If you are okay with a little predictably and a garden that comes to life, romance, large victorian house, you will love The Peculiar Garden of Harriet Hunt. A short-er book you can read in one sitting. Settle in and enjoy the magic.

Amazon Link – The Peculiar Garden of Harriet Hunt By: Chelsea Iversen

Stats: 320 pages

***Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for a  copy of the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Publishing Dec 3, 2024!