“What if I’m not too old to have a happy childhood now?” is a poignant line from the character Ruth in The Gardins of Edin by Rosey Lee, a novel that begins with apprehension and confusion but ends with a sense of fulfillment. The book explores modern relationship dynamics, with a central theme of personal growth: healing from the past, being steady in the present, and not seeking perfection in the future. Not every character in the book learns or desires this lesson, but it lies at the heart of each of their stories.

The story is driven by four central characters: Ruth, who manages a family business that has long been a pillar in the local community; Naomi, the emotional center of the family; Mary, an aspiring restaurateur; and her sister Martha, a doctor. These four Black women from the south are each on a journey of self-discovery, while also grappling with the evolving dynamics of their family and community. The novel, which spans roughly 300 pages, has two main plot arcs that delve into their personal and shared challenges.

While some characters may evoke frustration with their negativity, the book never suggests that their futures will be entirely bleak. Instead, it’s a feel-good drama that features flawed, realistic characters whose weaknesses are neither exaggerated nor overly moralized. For fans of well-crafted, character-driven stories with genuine emotional depth, this book is a great fit.

Although the back cover hints at larger conflicts, the story isn’t about grand battles over empires; it's more about the internal struggles and infighting within a close-knit community. The characters wrestle with concealing painful pasts, and the hidden scars of that past pose real threats to their relationships. These conflicts are handled with sincerity, never veering into melodrama or caricature, but they do create the possibility of lasting damage if left unresolved.

The novel doesn’t position itself as a guide on mental or physical health, but it does offer insights into both. Through the characters' struggles, the value of mental and heart health is subtly highlighted, adding another layer of depth to the story. I found myself learning more about these topics without the narrative losing focus or becoming preachy.

The readers’ guide at the end of the book revealed something I should have noticed right away—if it had been a snake, it would have bitten me! While The Gardins of Edin may seem like a clear reference to the biblical Garden of Eden, the book doesn’t feel like a Christian allegory or preach to the reader. The Christianity of some characters is important to their individual stories, but it doesn’t dominate the narrative or alienate readers of different beliefs.

Finally, this book sets up its characters in such a way that a sequel could easily follow, though it’s not necessary. By the end, The Gardins have found peace, and the story feels complete as it is.