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This is a book about mothers and daughters, and how God can mend broken relationships.

84-year-old Leota Reinhardt lives alone. She worked her whole life to provide a good life for her children, but now they want nothing to do with her. Even her beautiful backyard garden – once her pride and joy, her sanctuary – has fallen into shambles with neglect. Until one day her granddaughter shows up at her door, and everything starts to change.

As Annie gets to know her grandmother and helps bring her garden back to life, God whispers to the hearts of three generations of women, revealing long-buried truths and healing deep wounds, slowly drawing mother, daughter, and granddaughter back together.

I love the beautiful imagery of the garden as it provides a backdrop for painful reflections of the past and hopeful dreams for the future. Mistakes and misunderstandings pushed this family apart, but humility and love can fill the cracks in their relationships and breathe new life into their lives, if only they are willing to listen and forgive. ( )

Overall, I liked this book. It addressed some subjects that were though-provoking and current in todays society. I didn't understand the need for Anne to be unmaaired though, I don't understand why she couldn't have had a relationship with Corban. Thinking further it seemed to make an idol of the garden. Perhaps I'm too cynical though. ( )

it's been a long time since I have cried while reading a book! what an amazing story. I hated that it had to end. ( )

Great book by Francine Rivers. It certainly was relevant to people in my family circle. Unforgiveness and bitterness can take hold and destroy people. The characters were believable to me. I won't soon forget the story. ( )