The Restoration Garden

by Sara Blaydes, Soneela Nankani (Reading), Mia Hutchinson-Shaw (Reading)

Listening Length: 10 hours and 2 minutes

A landscape architect unearths the tangled history of a once-celebrated English garden—and all its mysteries—in a captivating novel by the author of The Last Secret of Lily Adams .

Julia Esdaile is hired to restore the historic gardens at Havenworth Manor—the grounds of which are now an abandoned snarl of bramble and weeds—to their original splendor. For the enigmatic lady of the manor, ninety-two-year-old Margaret Clarke, the reason for the restoration is the deeply private story of a promise made a lifetime ago, and a vow to keep it before she dies.

It’s 1940, and Margaret’s older half sister, Irene, an aspiring artist, dreams of an exciting world beyond Havenworth. Her only escapes are James Atherton, a handsome officer in the RAF, and her sketchbook of flower drawings. Bonding over their disdain for war, Irene follows James to London, where, irrevocably in love, she is forced to make a choice she never imagined. With that, Irene vanishes from Margaret’s life forever.

Now, with the help of Margaret’s godson, Andrew, Julia is determined to uncover both the long-buried secrets of the past and the truth behind a heartbreaking mystery that only restoring the gardens of Havenworth can solve.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Mystery, Historical, Romance, World War II, British Literature

11 pages, Audible Audio

First published November 1, 2025

Reviews

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

An impulse read. I got this kindle book from Amazon’s monthly free prime book giveaway. Most of the time I don’t take one bc they all seem so dumb but this one seemed interesting and I’m always looking for light reads for planes and the like. My sister was visiting me this past weekend and to get over having to take her to the airport and to avoid doing any of my chores, I indulged in a rare afternoon of just reading. The book, about a woman who works as a historical garden preservationist, was just interesting enough and well-written enough to keep me reading. Julia, our present day narrator, has had to adopt her nephew when her sister dies, and she’s fleeing the implosion of her professional career in the States by going to England to help restore an old manor’s garden to its 1940 glory. Irene, the back-in-the-past character, has the juicier story, the mystery of which keeps the story’s propulsion moving along. It’s a well-balanced plot, with paper-thin stock characters who for all of that are not annoyingly written. They still do come alive. I liked the focus on the flowers and the structure of the gardens, though there could’ve been more of that. And I liked some of Irene’s time in London, though sadly, she doesn’t get much of that. The ending is pat, but eh. Whatever. It’s pure entertainment, not great literature. I did learn about moon gardens and parterres though so that’s something.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book didn’t disappoint! Lots of history, interest, all emotions are covered here. I laughed and cried with the way multi-generations were brought together. The pace moves quickly, and I was charmed from the very beginning with the writer’s deep characters and beautiful setting. Sara Blaydes has a gift for making the reader want to care, and I actually found myself wanting to know more about each of their character’s individual stories. I feel this book could have actually been spilt over two books to allow for even more character development and background details to be told…or maybe it’s simply the fact that I loved the story so much I didn’t want it to end. A very satisfying read that left me thinking about this book for days after I finished reading it.

*See below for my initial update (posted while I was reading the book).
Currently Reading update: I am in love with this book!!!!Right away it opens with characters and descriptions that have roped me in. I’m only a quarter of the way into it, but it has everything that I want! I will definitely order a hard copy when it comes out in October. It will be so hard to wait until then. If love historical gardens, romance, full-bodied characters, and secrets to unearth, pick this book up! You will love it! I will post another update when I have finished reading the book. Until then…what a yummy read!

[Genni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Available Kindle Unlimited with Audio

Sara Blaydes can without a doubt write historical fiction with a touch of romance. This is the second book I've read (well, listened) of hers and I have been so pleased by the outcome each time.

Narration is done very well if you chose this route, two narrators- very clear, well paced and an enjoyable listen.

Dual timelines of current- with Julia, who is a garden restoration expert called to the expansive estate of ailing and aged Margaret. There is mystery, very slow burn and sweet romance (just a touch) between Julia and Margaret's grandson. We then go back in time to Irene, Margaret's half sister, during WW2. These chapters give a rich history of only one small part of the war relevant to this story so that it isn't overwhelming and doesn't turn this into a war story. The character development unfolds exquisitely and the reader is left with no questions unanswered by the end.

What I enjoyed🌸🌺🌹
The novel provides a look into an important piece of history through a fictional story. The author does note where the narrative deviates from factual events in the author’s note.
The story brings closure for both Julia and Margaret, who were harboring distress regarding their respective sisters. Through their new found family, they establish deep mutual care and support.
The blend of suspense, mystery, and romance adds a significant depth, making it a well-rounded and engaging read. I found the writing to be well done, with particularly beautiful descriptions of the gardens and flowers. I learned a few new terms as well 😉

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was one of my two free selections from Amazon Kindle First Reads for Oct. It wasn't the worst I've ever had from that program (which doesn't say much, because most often those free selections end up being worth what I paid for them), but it was just mediocre. Maybe not even a full 3 stars, but I'm rounding up because since its Amazon First Reads and did not suck, that alone is saying something.

There are the ever present dual story lines, and as usual, one is stronger and more interesting than the other. Irene's WWII story was more compelling and intriguing, while Julia's present day POV was weak, boring, and undeveloped. Julia was hired to restore the gardens of an historic estate, but the owner was too fragile to discuss the designs and history, but then who hired Julia in the first place? And why if the owner has to be shielded from all aspects of the restoration? Too much force drama and implausibility.

The ending seemed rush and tied up too predictably and neatly, and I didn't catch exactly what ultimately was supposed to have happened to Irene.

Oh well. As I said, I've read worse from this program and will continue to, sadly, keep going back and reading worse, with a unicorn of a really good book sprinkled in occasionally as the motivation to keep doing so.

[Tereza · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story set during WWII? Count me in — even better when it’s an audiobook! This is a deep and moving story told from the perspectives of two women across time: one navigating the restoration of an estate garden in the present, and one living through the horrors of the war.

The writing is detailed and cleverly done, especially the dual timeline, which makes complete sense and adds beautiful depth to the story. I have to say, I loved the historical timeline — set during WWII — a bit more. Irene’s story was absolutely incredible: suspenseful and dark. I was on edge the entire time.

Unfortunately, I didn’t quite click with the narration of Julia’s timeline. I found her style a bit irritating and juvenile, even when she was voicing a 90-year-old woman. There was just something about her tone that didn’t work for me, so I have to take away a star for that.

Thank you to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Overall rating: 3.5 stars

[Crista · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed The Restoration Garden. It follows two women living in different time periods, and their stories are told in alternating chapters. I’ve always loved books that go back and forth between characters like this—it keeps things interesting and helps build connections between the past and present.

What stood out most to me was how the author developed the characters. Both women felt real, and their experiences were emotional and relatable. I found myself looking forward to each chapter, wanting to know what would happen next in both timelines.

The title made me think the story would focus more on the actual restoration of the garden, and I was hoping for a little more detail on that part, especially toward the end. That said, I didn’t mind too much because the main focus was clearly on the personal growth and healing of the characters, which I found meaningful and satisfying.

Overall, it’s a thoughtful and well-written book that stayed with me after I finished it. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys stories about strong women, personal transformation, and the quiet connections between past and present

[ABCme · Rating 4 out of 5]

While there's a war raging outside the estate, the people of Havenworth Manor are living the high life. Margaret and Irene are sisters 10 years apart, having everything they could wish for. But the older Irene is not happy where she is and gives in to following James to London. It's the early 1940's, The Blitz is shattering the city and James turns out not to be who Irene thought he was.
In the modern day part of this dual timeline Julia is hired by Margaret to reconstruct Havenworth's gardens to its original design. Bit by bit the story of Margaret and Irene unfolds.

I thoroughly enjoyed the sisterhood, the language of flowers and beautiful surroundings.
The characters are interesting, the writing is good and moves at a fast pace.
The Restoration Garden is a captivating read, highly recommended.

Thank you Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC.

[Bright Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Julia Esdaile has been hired to restore the historic gardens at Havenworth Manor to the glory they were back during the childhood of Lady of the Manor Margaret Clarke, aged 93.

The story is told through dual timelines, one in present day and one during WWII.

I was interested in the book because of the historic gardens and their restoration. These were the parts of the book I most enjoyed.

The book was easy to read, the main characters were likable, and the setting felt real. I also want to mention the attractive book cover designed by Mumtaz Mustafa which depicted an entranceway and beautiful flowers.

I also learned some things along the way, such as the existence of internment camps on the Isle of Man, what being a land army girl involved, and about Henry Tizard, whose work inspired some of the story.

#arc #netgalley #Fiction
#therestorationgarden #sarablaydes
#WWII #garden #flowers #Mystery #Romance #secrets #historicalfiction
#Brightbookreviews #Goodreads

Lake Union Publishing
October 14, 2025

[Maven_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Restoration Garden by Sara Blaydes is a richly layered historical fiction about healing, memory, and the buried stories that shape our lives, told through the entwined journeys of women across time: Julia Esdaile, a landscape architect brought to Havenworth Manor to revive its neglected gardens, and Irene, the manor owner’s half sister whose wartime choices echo through decades. As Julia prunes brambles and deciphers fragments of the estate’s past, she slowly uncovers the emotional history of Margaret Clarke’s promise and the secret life Irene lived during World War II, creating a tapestry of love, loss, resilience, and revelation. The dual timelines invite the reader to witness both the physical restoration of a garden and the emotional restoration of family bonds.

In turning the first page I was struck by how deeply this novel feels like an invitation into a quiet world that nonetheless holds profound emotional truths. What resonated most with me was the way Blaydes crafts Julia’s present day struggle with both her professional insecurities and her compassion for Margaret, making her a heroine whose growth feels earnest and moving; at the same time Irene’s storyline in the 1940s pulses with an ache of youthful hope and heartbreaking choices that lingered in my thoughts long after reading.

The pacing felt thoughtful and measured, with each chapter unfolding another layer of mystery tied to the garden’s history, yet never overwhelming the soul of the story. I found myself especially touched by the thematic exploration of forgiveness, how characters learn to confront truths once hidden, and how tending a garden becomes a metaphor for tending one’s heart and past. On balance this is a novel that feels both reflective and uplifting in its own gentle way, and it brought me moments of joyful discovery alongside deeper emotional reflection.

My rating: 4 out of 5 stars. I chose four stars because while the two timelines blend beautifully and the thematic depth moved me, I occasionally wished for even more time with some of the supporting characters and their emotional arcs, yet overall this remains a compelling, heartfelt historical read that I would happily recommend.

[Eli · Rating 2 out of 5]

I usually love historical fiction that weaves two timelines together—present-day characters unraveling a mystery from the past. When done well, it’s one of my favorite storytelling styles. Unfortunately, this book didn’t deliver.

The writing feels a bit flat—it relies too much on telling instead of showing. Big emotions, like the grief of losing a sister or the stress of a doctor, are mentioned but don’t really land. The historical setting doesn’t feel authentic. The dialogue and behavior of women in modern day sound almost identical to the 1940s, which makes it hard to stay immersed in the time period. The character arc for Irene is unrealistic - the teenager whose biggest act of rebellion is wanting to attend art school—suddenly transforms into a fearless spy ready to risk everything?

[Ramona · Rating 5 out of 5]

WW2 history, an honorable brave young woman, painstakingly reviving flower gardens at an old estate, along with discovering forgiveness within a family….my absolute favorite type of story. Well done! I’m not sure why goodreads says this book will not be published until November, it’s available now on Amazon.

[Mary Fabrizio · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some minor tweaking would have turned this into a four star read. Andrew and Julia's love story didn't feel believable, primarily because Andrew's character wasn't well drawn. Also, it seemed unlikely that Julia would have deduced all she did of Irene's past without the benefit of knowing the details that only the reader was privy to in the book.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Monica Friedlander · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was but a collection of platitudes wrapped in endless homage to horticulture. It had great promise, but then everything was predictable from start to finish. The instant Julia arrived at Havensworth and met Andrew, you knew they were going to fall in love and live happily ever after . You knew Irene would be the unfairly maligned hero. The great mystery of the book was that Margaret promised her sister to take care of the gardens? Gasp. I don't have time for a full review, but I found it all to be (predictably) disappointing. It's an easy read in a pretty setting with pretty flowers. Just for that I gave it an extra star. But I would have loved as much as one original thought, and there was none to be found. Then again, it's the prefect thing for book clubs where no one need have a controversial opinion. Sorry. I'm a tough critic and mince no words. Guilty as charged.

[Amy K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this one too!

After recently reading The Last Secret of Lily Adams, and thoroughly loving it, I saw The Restoration Garden in KU by the same author and decided to give it a listen. I'm so glad I did. This is another beautiful novel woven together across two timelines and from two perspectives. This is another character driven novel but with a bit of intrigue, mystery and drama to propel the story.

[Bookaholic__Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't really enjoy most historical fiction but I found myself pretty engrossed in this story. There are definitely mysterious elements to the story that I felt probably helped maintain my interest. I loved how we got a glimpse into both the past and present, and honestly I enjoyed both storylines equally.

I did listen to the audiobook and I thought the narrator had a lovely voice. I really don't have any complaints, if I had to pick something the relationship was a little too insta-love for me. Beyond that I enjoyed my time listening.

[Laurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent historical fiction with dual timeline that really worked. Romance, mystery, complex characters.

Thanks to NetGalley for an opportunity to read this advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Vicki Holder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Book

I almost passed on this book, and I'm so glad I didn't. It's a beautiful story of love, forgiveness, and healing.

[Delaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I unexpectedly loved this book. It was definitely some chick-lit, but the writing was still well done and the story instantly pulled you in.

I typically avoid WW2 stories because my son is obsessed and I’ve read a ton of historical fiction about WW2, but this was told from a different side of the war that I didn’t know much about.

It was also told in dual timelines by characters who had nothing to do with each other, and it worked.

The end is corny and predictable, but the meat of the story was fresh and intriguing. Amazon first reads win!

I didn’t give it the full five stars for the pettiest reason ever. The author didn’t give her characters different use of dialogue. All of them used the same adjectives to describe something.

It takes you out of the story and reminds you you’re reading something that is fake. It sounds childish, but it really bugged me.

The ending was also quite sad, and I was really rooting for Irene!!

This is like… The Secret Garden and The Alice Network had a baby. That comparison will only make any sense once you read it.

Throughly enjoyed! Do it. Read it. Get it. Love it.

K bye.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very nice novel of a young woman trying to change her life and recover from past hardships. Lots of interesting background about historic gardens and the meaning of flowers.
I would have given 4 stars but thought something was missing in the resolution - no explanation for recovery of serious childhood illness of a main character who lives to old age.

[Adam‘’s book reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Tense and Gripping World War II Espionage Novel



If you love World War II novels centered on espionage, secrets, and the dangerous world of intelligence work, The Restoration Garden by Sara Blaydes is an absolute standout.

This dual-timeline novel plunges readers into the high-stakes world of WWII spying, where trust is fragile, loyalties are tested, and every decision can mean life or death. The wartime storyline is gripping and suspenseful, filled with coded messages, covert operations, and the constant fear of betrayal. Blaydes captures the paranoia and urgency of wartime espionage with impressive authenticity, making these sections especially compelling.

The modern timeline works well as it uncovers long-buried secrets, revealing the lasting consequences of wartime choices. Rather than distracting from the story, it deepens the impact of the espionage plot and keeps the tension building as past and present collide.

This is a smart, fast-paced historical novel that puts World War II espionage front and center while still honoring the human cost of intelligence work. Fans of WWII spy fiction and dual-timeline historical novels will find this to be a highly satisfying read and an easy recommendation.

[Angela Verry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Germans, Nazis, war… oh my… and a garden 🌸🌿

Restoration Garden was such a beautiful WWII story ❤️📖. I love a good dual timeline, and this one blended past and present in a way that slowly uncovered secrets, heartbreak, and hope ⏳✨. The historical storyline pulled me in right away, and watching how the garden connected generations was just chef’s kiss 🌷👩‍🌾.

The story is packed with emotion — love, loss, resilience, and the power of family bonds 💕👨‍👩‍👧‍👦. While the romance doesn’t fully bloom until the final chapter, it feels earned and adds a sweet, satisfying finish 🌹🥰.

If you enjoy historical fiction with strong family themes, layered timelines, and a touch of romance wrapped in a meaningful setting, this is definitely worth picking up 🌼📚.

[Rachel Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

What A Mystery!

All of these twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat! I was thoroughly invested in Irene’s story and definitely didn’t see the ending the way that it was!

[Cindy G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful!

A beautiful tale of family love, war and the wasted years of betrayal. I absolutely loved this book, and the truth of a key component is priceless.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read when a story can stir up strong emotions and tears in my eyes. I looked forward to each chapter, hung on to each word with impatience and delight. A beautiful story with some parts of non fiction.

[Clare Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, it was so special and a good fast read! Makes me cherish everything in my life a lot more!!

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read. I loved the back and forth between 1940 and present day and the redemption at the end.

[delia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5! nothing groundbreaking but overall an enjoyable historical fic that kept my interest the entire way through.

[Sheri Meier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book with a romance and gardening plot. Went back in history a bit also during WWII

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book has two storylines. In the present day, one woman restores an old garden, while another woman, living during WW2, is the reason the garden is being restored.
In the end, this book is about atonement and redemption, and also about courage and love.
It also shows how the naivety, ignorance, and self-centeredness of an 18-year-old (which are, by the way, pretty normal things for young adults whose prefrontal cortex is not fully developed) can lead to devastating consequences. It is also a reminder that children should be loved, not only reproached.

[Karlie Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

This was really good, and a new format of history too which I liked.