The Various Stages of a Garden Well-Kept

Based on true events, this novel follows the journey of a Greek woman who emigrates to America for an arranged marriage, the struggles of her family, and the search for love among two brothers in Akron, Ohio. Frieda Kahlo, an enigmatic cat, connects the generations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2022
Publisher: Blackwater Press

Loosely based on true events, this multi-generational novel weaves a fragmented framework of one family, allowing the story to gradually unfold as a cohesive whole. In 1920, Irini Gaspari, a young Greek woman, embarks on a transformative journey, leaving behind her beloved family, particularly her close friend Martha, and embarking on an arranged marriage to a man she has never met in America. Tragedy strikes, and her closely-knit family gradually crumbles, leaving behind a young girl named Marieta. However, in the changing world of the 1950s and 1960s, Marieta finds her own path to womanhood, navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving society.

Fast-forward to 2010, in Akron, Ohio, two brothers, Herman and Richard, despite their vastly different personalities, share an awkward relationship with love. In their own de-romanticized ways, they are on a quest to find their one true love. They navigate the complexities of romance, while also caring for their ageing mother, plagued by dementia and an obsession with her garden. The lives of these characters intertwine with the enigmatic presence of Frieda Kahlo, a calico cat who drifts between reality and the spiritual world, connecting the generations of characters.

Through their experiences, the novel explores themes of family, resilience, and the search for meaning in life. It sheds light on the complexities of relationships, the impact of tragedy, and the journey towards self-discovery. The characters are relatable and flawed, making their triumphs and struggles all the more compelling.

This multi-generational novel offers a rich tapestry of characters and narratives, capturing the essence of human experience and the enduring power of love. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to overcome adversity.

Dimension: 228 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781735774732