Book Review: The Garden of Memories

May was a hard month for me. Thus, after reading The Garden of Memories, by Amanda James, I failed to write up a review for the book. All I have to go on, for this review, are a few sketchy notes: "I had trouble staying absorbed (but that was probably my fault entirely, given challenging circumstances in life). The pace was gentle and breezy. The characters were somewhat interesting. This was a sweet, endearing story."

The tale begins on the first day of Rose's retirement from nursing. She is a widow and has always felt like her career put her in a box. Now, she is free to rewrite who she wants to be. Her husband's garden needs tending, so Rose gathers an assortment of friends to help. As they nurture and grow individual plants, based on memories, they deepen relationships and endure life's losses together. This book is perfect for those facing loss. It emphasizes the healing power of both gardens and memories.