Customer Reviews
Best book I've read in a long time - By: A. Bradley, 16 Nov 2008 
I brought this book when it was first published, due to a recommendation by Richard & Judy's Book club. Which I find always chooses great books to read.I finallly got around to reading the book last week, & was unable to put it down. The story is is brilliant, it keeping you on your toes, & wanting more after ever chapter. I think the story touched me, due to my grandmother being in service her self in the 1920's. So the book gave me a glimpse of what life in service would have been like for her. The characters in the book are truly lovable both upstairs & downstairs. After reading this book I found myself wondering if they would make it into a film, I hope they do it would be a great one.
A fantastic read! - By: C. Edney, 16 Nov 2008 A friend recommended this book to me & I was thoroughly impressed! The story & characters are captivating - I couldn't put it down!
Historic - By: Carol, 03 Nov 2008 
I found this book a bit slow to start with, & struggled a bit to get into it. However, I eventuallly began to enjoy Grace's memories at Riverton. The lavish partys, the central characters, Hannah & Emmeline, & a secret Grace could never forget. Hannah & Emmy being close, & playing 'The Game' as young girls, with their brother. Things change as the sisters get older, & secrets & mysteries begin to unfold. I am glad I read this book, but did not find it as good as The Secret Garden.
A magical read - By: Leslie MacDonald, 02 Nov 2008 One of the most beautifully written books I have encountered in years. The descriptions are so intricate & superb that it quickly absorbs you into the life of its characters. Rarely does one come across an author this young with so much talent in telling a tale that absorbs you from the first chapter. For those who want a good story that reaches deep within you, this is it.
Enjoyable and well written - By: The Hetton Bookworm, 28 Oct 2008 
I enjoyed this book, although not as much as her follow-up, The Forgotten Garden.
For me the strengths were Kate Morton's clear ability to evoke the past & I found the insight into 1920s England colourful & absorbing. Also the characters were engaging & likeably flawed & the plot was engrossing if not gripping.
I agree with another reviewer, however, that the identity of Grace's father was glaringly obvious long before Grace finallly realised, so much so that you wanted to shout it at her. The bittersweet ending was also slightly predictable & left me feeling a bit cold.
All in alll a good piece of well written fiction that I enjoyed but perhaps a warm up to the Forgotten Garden.
