The Walled Garden: Unearth the most captivating historical fiction debut of 2023

In the village of Oakbourne, men return from the war, scarred and bitter. Alice Rayne is married to Stephen, heir to Oakbourne Hall, and must try to save it from collapse. She is drawn into a new, forbidden love, and must find a way to heal the wounds of the past. The Walled Garden is a captivating love story and a timeless exploration of trauma and human resilience.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2023
Publisher: Bonnier Books Ltd

A captivating debut novel that delves into the depths of love, the scars of war, and the remarkable resilience of the human spirit, The Walled Garden has been longlisted for the prestigious HWA Gold Crown Award for Best Historical Fiction Novel of the Year. Set in the picturesque Suffolk countryside, the story follows Alice Rayne, who is married to Stephen, heir to the crumbling Oakbourne Hall. Once a sweet and gentle man, Stephen has returned home a bitter and angry stranger, haunted by the horrors he has witnessed and the secrets he carries. Lonely and fearful of the man her husband has become, Alice must navigate the delicate balance of repairing her marriage and saving Oakbourne Hall from imminent collapse. As she begins to restore the walled garden, Alice finds herself drawn into a passionate and forbidden love, which threatens to unravel the fragile threads of her life.

The Walled Garden is a poignant love story that explores the complexities of trauma and the resilience of the human spirit. Through Alice's journey, the novel sheds light on the emotional toll of war and the challenges of rebuilding lives after devastation. The Suffolk countryside serves as a backdrop for the unfolding narrative, providing a rich and evocative setting that adds depth and beauty to the story. Stacey Hall's writing is characterized by her vivid descriptions and emotional storytelling, drawing readers into Alice's world and evoking a range of emotions. The characters are well-developed, with each possessing their unique strengths and weaknesses, making them relatable and compelling.

The Walled Garden has received critical acclaim from reviewers and readers alike. Natasha Solomons praised the book for its "touching, absorbing" narrative, stating that it "will especially appeal to Rachel Hore fans." Daily Mail described it as a "poignant drama" that delves into the complexities of war and its aftermath. The novel has been praised for its gentle but powerful exploration of themes, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates historical fiction with a touch of romance.

In conclusion, The Walled Garden is a remarkable debut novel that offers a captivating blend of love, war, and resilience. With its rich storytelling and evocative prose, the book has earned its place on the longlist for the HWA Gold Crown Award. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply seeking a powerful and moving story, The Walled Garden is a must-read that will leave you reflecting on the human spirit's enduring strength and capacity for love.

Weight: 624g
Dimension: 163 x 244 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838779252