The Secret Orchard

Two sisters confront their past and each other in The Lost Orchard, discovering that healing and reconciliation are possible through shared challenges.

In The Lost Orchard, the lives of two estranged sisters, Bette and Nina Crowdie, intertwine as they navigate the complexities of family ties and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of a small Scottish coastal community, the story unfolds after their father's unexpected passing, which leaves behind not only a divided family farm but also a legacy of unresolved issues. Bette, who has distanced herself from her family for years, is thrust back into a world she thought she had left behind. Nina, fiercely protective of her home and her son, fears that Bette's return could jeopardize everything she has worked for.

As the sisters confront their differences and the looming threat of debt that their father concealed, they are forced to collaborate for the sake of the farm. Bette's reluctance to engage with her past becomes a central theme, as she must reconcile her memories and feelings about her upbringing. The discovery of an ancient orchard on their property presents a glimmer of hope, suggesting that healing and reconciliation may be possible. Throughout The Lost Orchard, the narrative explores themes of belonging, forgiveness, and the possibility of starting anew.

Sharon Gosling's storytelling weaves warmth and romance into a tale that is both enchanting and thought-provoking. With rich character development and a vivid sense of place, The Lost Orchard invites readers to reflect on the importance of family, the weight of history, and the potential for redemption in unexpected circumstances.