A strange yet subtly claustrophobic, dystopian-esque read that, much like the garden itself, grew on me the further in I traversed. 

With rich imagery and a uniquely compelling narrative that oscillates between the hazy, past memories and current lives of elderly sisters, Evelyn and Lily. I was completely fascinated by the eccentric nature of our protagonists and the secluded lives they’ve both led in this post apocalyptic setting. As well as the momentous change that happens when a strange boy finds his way into their walled-off sanctuary. 

I also really enjoyed exploring their complex (slightly dysfunctional) sisterly dynamics, that briefly touches on their reasons for living soo off-grid. It felt very much like Grey Gardens and Flowers In The Attic had a dystopian, cottage-core horror love child — complete with an uncanny gothic undertone that kept me on edge of my seat. 

Trust me, once you start reading this, you’ll probably not be able to put it down, because I certainly couldn’t! And that’s all down to Nick Newman’s skill in capturing the unfiltered rawness of human idiosyncrasies, his understanding of the affect isolation can have on someone’s sense of identity and (of course) his incredibly evocative prose.

I do have to say, it was a bit of a slow start but did pick up at around the 50 page mark — which is when I got completely hooked! 

It’s definitely the kind of book you have to read to truly appreciate (though I do suggest checking trigger warnings beforehand.) 

And, if you’re a literary lover, I highly recommend you consider adding this to your TBR, as I suspect it’s gonna be on quite a few award shortlists next year. 

Also, a huge thank you to Milly at Transworld/Doubleday for the proof.