Mana's Reviews > The Garden

"The Garden" by Nick Newman invites us into a captivating yet enigmatic world, where two elderly sisters, Evelyn and Lily, live in an isolated garden that is both their refuge and prison. Set in an ambiguous time and place, the novel explores themes of grief, memory, and the intricacies of human relationships.

The sisters' daily lives revolve around tending to their secluded home, following the instructions left by their mother in an almanac. Their peaceful existence is disrupted when they discover a mysterious boy hiding in the boarded-up house at the heart of their garden. This revelation raises numerous questions and forces Evelyn and Lily to confront unsettling truths about themselves, their sanctuary, and the world beyond.

As suspicions grow and allegiances shift, memories resurface, intertwining past and present in a complex narrative. The enigmatic boy serves as a catalyst, propelling the sisters on a journey of self-discovery and unearthing long-buried secrets.

Newman's lyrical prose creates an atmosphere rich with emotion, immersing readers in the haunting beauty of the garden. His vivid descriptions evoke a sense of place that is both enchanting and eerie, reflecting the turbulent emotions of the characters. While the slow pacing may not appeal to all readers, it allows for a deeper exploration of the characters' psyches and the themes at play.

The ambiance of the novel oscillates between tranquility and unease, with lush imagery contrasting the pervasive sorrow that underlies the story. Emotions run high as the characters confront their pasts, and moments of tenderness are often tinged with sadness, painting a nuanced portrait of the human experience.

This novel evokes the same haunting atmosphere as Grey Gardens, with a post-apocalyptic twist that adds an extra layer of intrigue.