The Forgotten Garden: A Novel

Kate Morton

Apr 2009 · Sold by Simon and Schuster

About this ebook

From the New York Times bestselling author of Homecoming comes a novel that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through generations and across continents as two women try to uncover their family’s secret past.

A tiny girl is abandoned on a ship headed for Australia in 1913. She arrives completely alone with nothing but a small suitcase containing a few clothes and a single book—a beautiful volume of fairy tales. She is taken in by the dockmaster and his wife and raised as their own. On her twenty-fi rst birthday, they tell her the truth, and with her sense of self shattered and very little to go on, "Nell" sets out to trace her real identity. Her quest leads her to Blackhurst Manor on the Cornish coast and the secrets of the doomed Mountrachet family. But it is not until her granddaughter, Cassandra, takes up the search after Nell’s death that all the pieces of the puzzle are assembled. A spellbinding tale of mystery and self-discovery, The Forgotten Garden will take hold of your imagination and never let go.

Ratings and reviews

Once the story started to pick up, it became a lovely read with a happy ending. Unfortunately, this didn't happen until after page 160, when we start to get a better glimpse into the many mysteries of the past. At first I was annoyed with the jumping around to different time periods and POVs, but it really helped piece the story together, especially when we learned more about the Authoress. As Eliza's story went on, it brought out so many emotions of both happiness and sadness, what a riveting character (also my favorite). Although I enjoyed this book, it took too long to get to the plot and there was a lot of unnecessary and irrelevant writing dedicated to side characters.

It was confusing at times with the number of characters and the way it jumped around. Not a book you can leave for a long time and just pick back up right away. But it got better at the end and held my interest.

Compelling story tho a bit confusing at times because of going back and forth between eras. But enjoyable to read. Sept. 1, 2009

About the author

Kate Morton is the award-winning, New York Times bestselling author of The House at Riverton, The Forgotten Garden, The Distant Hours, The Secret Keeper, The Lake House, and The Clockmaker’s Daughter. Her books are published in thirty-eight languages and have been #1 bestsellers worldwide. Born and raised in Australia, she holds degrees in dramatic art and English literature, and now lives with her family in London and Australia. Visit her online at KateMorton.com or on Facebook and Instagram at @KateMortonAuthor.