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Gardins of Edin
A Gardin Wedding
One of the Gardin women must navigate a season rich with unexpected challenges in the follow-up to The Gardins of Edin, a heartwarming story about love, forgiveness, new beginnings, and what it takes to get there.
Martha Gardin is a mess. And everyone in the Gardin family knows it. A successful physician, Martha is usually the source of the Gardin family drama, but her heart is in the right place… sometimes. So, the Gardins are pleasantly surprised when Martha mellows out after she begins dating Oji Greenwald, one of the most eligible bachelors in town.
As Martha’s relationship with Oji deepens, she thinks she’s finally about to have the life she’s always wanted. But when Martha attempts to intervene in a health crisis in Oji’s family, she draws the ire of Oji’s mother, Eve Greenwald, which jeopardizes everything. Suddenly, Martha finds herself on a journey full of challenges that force her to deal with her previous mistakes, reconcile her past, and forge a path forward.
Will she be able to look beyond the superficial to find what she’s really needed all along?
Martha Gardin is a mess. And everyone in the Gardin family knows it. A successful physician, Martha is usually the source of the Gardin family drama, but her heart is in the right place… sometimes. So, the Gardins are pleasantly surprised when Martha mellows out after she begins dating Oji Greenwald, one of the most eligible bachelors in town.
As Martha’s relationship with Oji deepens, she thinks she’s finally about to have the life she’s always wanted. But when Martha attempts to intervene in a health crisis in Oji’s family, she draws the ire of Oji’s mother, Eve Greenwald, which jeopardizes everything. Suddenly, Martha finds herself on a journey full of challenges that force her to deal with her previous mistakes, reconcile her past, and forge a path forward.
Will she be able to look beyond the superficial to find what she’s really needed all along?
304 pages, Paperback
Published May 13, 2025
13 people are currently reading
10037 people want to read
About the author
Rosey Lee
4 books256 followersRosey Lee writes hopeful stories about complicated families and complex friendships. As a native of the West Bank of New Orleans, LA who lives in Atlanta, GA, Rosey’s writing is inspired by the people, traditions, and food that anchor her to the South. She enjoys cooking, listening to live music, and occasional bursts of fanatical bargain shopping. Be sure to follow Rosey on BookBub for the latest on sales for the Gardins of Edin series: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/rosey...
A little more about me…
Rosey is my pen name. I chose it to honor my grandmothers and great-grandmothers, so it’s very dear to me.
I’m a health and wellness advocate who loves ice cream so much that I think there may be ice cream in heaven. My alter ego is a physician, so it’s not unusual for health/medical situations to appear in my stories.
I love writing short stories. My flash fiction stories are around 1000 words (or less), and they take about 5 minutes to read. You can read 5 of my flash fiction stories FREE in volume 1 of my Beautiful Complicated Family series (prices may vary outside the US). Get volume 2 by signing up for my newsletter.
You can find me @roseyleebooks on all platforms.
Oh, and I love smiley faces, emoticons, and GIFs too!
A little more about me…
Rosey is my pen name. I chose it to honor my grandmothers and great-grandmothers, so it’s very dear to me.
I’m a health and wellness advocate who loves ice cream so much that I think there may be ice cream in heaven. My alter ego is a physician, so it’s not unusual for health/medical situations to appear in my stories.
I love writing short stories. My flash fiction stories are around 1000 words (or less), and they take about 5 minutes to read. You can read 5 of my flash fiction stories FREE in volume 1 of my Beautiful Complicated Family series (prices may vary outside the US). Get volume 2 by signing up for my newsletter.
You can find me @roseyleebooks on all platforms.
Oh, and I love smiley faces, emoticons, and GIFs too!
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June 8, 2025"This is love. Wherever we are and whatever we go through, this is home. And because of it, I’ve found everything I’ve needed all along."
Though I don’t typically quote the end of a story in my review, the events leading up to the wedding in this story were so engaging I read it in two days! The moment Martha’s cousin said that she and her fiancé are both “playing a game of chess”, I worried that she might not get a Happily Ever After. In the previous story, if Martha had questions, she demanded answers. This time, we saw a softer side of her. Rather than getting angry, she thought about Oji’s ringless proposal until she almost combusted. LOL. I won’t delve into why Martha finally discussed the topic, but the tension leading to that moment, Oji’s momma, and Martha’s past insecurities made for a compelling narrative.
The author’s research, realistic depiction of dementia, and Martha and Oji’s premarital counseling are other aspects I found commendable. Now I’m waiting for Mary’s HEA, as I recall from the first story, her ex-boyfriend was horrible.
Great story for those who love contemporary romance, African American stories, family sagas, inspiration, Women’s fiction, and Christian romance.
Though I don’t typically quote the end of a story in my review, the events leading up to the wedding in this story were so engaging I read it in two days! The moment Martha’s cousin said that she and her fiancé are both “playing a game of chess”, I worried that she might not get a Happily Ever After. In the previous story, if Martha had questions, she demanded answers. This time, we saw a softer side of her. Rather than getting angry, she thought about Oji’s ringless proposal until she almost combusted. LOL. I won’t delve into why Martha finally discussed the topic, but the tension leading to that moment, Oji’s momma, and Martha’s past insecurities made for a compelling narrative.
The author’s research, realistic depiction of dementia, and Martha and Oji’s premarital counseling are other aspects I found commendable. Now I’m waiting for Mary’s HEA, as I recall from the first story, her ex-boyfriend was horrible.
Great story for those who love contemporary romance, African American stories, family sagas, inspiration, Women’s fiction, and Christian romance.
Currently reading
October 1, 2025***Updates from the Author***
Have you seen the estate where the Gardin family lives? Check it out at https://www.roseyleebooks.com/gardin-...
Did you know I interviewed Martha Gardin? If you want to read it, here's the link -
https://booksbywomen.org/authors-inte...
Thank you!
Rosey
Have you seen the estate where the Gardin family lives? Check it out at https://www.roseyleebooks.com/gardin-...
Did you know I interviewed Martha Gardin? If you want to read it, here's the link -
https://booksbywomen.org/authors-inte...
Thank you!
Rosey
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June 13, 2025Spiritual Themes
Overt spiritual content is light: Characters attend church and pray. Martha solicits Christian relationship counseling (this subject matter focuses on themes like honesty and open-communication). The Gardin women are named after Bible characters, with special emphasis on the Naomi / Ruth relationship in Gardins of Edin .
The novel addresses some themes that are reflected in Scripture, but through a more psychological than spiritual lens. A Gardin Wedding highlights themes of duplicity and hypocrisy, as Martha’s romantic relationship evidences her desire for upward social mobility. While she is comfortable adopting a utilitarian approach to the relationship, she expects her romantic partner to employ a more heartfelt approach.
On a similar note, Martha, who has historically excluded Ruth from the Gardin family, learns how it feels to be the victim of such treatment.
Throughout the novel, Martha experiences character growth, as she comes to a place of deeper honesty and continues to repent of her manipulative and controlling ways (see 2 Cor. 4:2). Martha is a real and relatable character who certainly makes mistakes, but it’s also clear that she is learning from her mistakes.
On the flip side, Martha does demonstrate genuine care and concern for her community members, making a point to arrange outreach events for members of an under-served population (elderly and financially-disadvantaged).
What I Liked
While reading Gardins of Edin , I had an uncomfortable reaction to Martha’s character: a natural inclination to dislike her — alongside the uncomfortable recognition that I could see myself in her. Going into the sequel, I was more prepared to look in the mirror as I encountered Martha’s narration. At the same time, I appreciated the opportunity to witness Martha’s growth as a character.
While Gardins of Edin emphasizes mental health through a strong emphasis on therapy and familial reconciliation, A Gardin Wedding takes an introspective tack, with only one narrator. Like her main character, author Rosey Lee “is a physician, and her website notes that she “has dedicated her career to individual and community-based approaches to health equity.” Given that Martha spends some time organizing health-oriented community events, I do suspect a semi-autobiographical bent.
Although I was surprised that this book featured only Martha’s perspective, in contrast with the four-way narration from Gardins of Edin I felt that the pacing still worked. It was the sort of reading experience where I found the pages slipping by, even though there wasn’t a ton “happening.” The pacing also worked for me, due to the elapsing of time. The book begins in the summer months but then covers a generous portion of the year, with some months covering more specifics and others glossing over larger periods of time.
I enjoyed the opportunity to revisit the characters from book one, especially Ruth and Nicholas. Ruth continues to demonstrate a beautiful measure of grace to her younger relative, and it was really sweet to see how Nicholas took on a fatherly role in Martha’s life. Protective characters are some of my favorites, and I like that Nicholas is able to meet some of Martha’s emotional needs, as her own father passed away during her childhood. Nicholas is a neat “father” type because he has Martha’s best interests in mind as he watches out for her. At the same time, he demonstrates healthy boundaries in light of her history of manipulation.
Also in A Gardin Wedding , we meet Jasmine, Martha’s best friend from high school. Lee does an excellent job of slowly weaving in the characters’ shared history. Readers learn about Martha and Jasmine’s past while watching their present, professional relationship unfold.
Most books with the word “Wedding” in the title follow a similar “romance” pattern. A Gardin Wedding stands out in that I wouldn’t necessarily classify it as a romance. The book emphasizes communication and growth in a romantic partnership, rather than focusing on attraction and physicality. I appreciate the realness of the relationship.
Content Notes
Although I think the characters do kiss, these moments are quickly glossed over, which makes me very happy. Again, this does not need read as a “romance,” in that sense, and I would love to see more books focusing on what it means to build a healthy, lasting relationship.
Martha's boyfriend's father is diagnosed with vascular dementia. Characters are concerned for his well-being on more than one occasion. While this content may be a trigger, for some, I really like Lee’s choice to supplement the plot with medical information about the diagnosis. This offers a factual (and educational) buffer for the emotional content.
There's also a reference to Martha "saving" her romantic partner.
Recommendation Status
Although I found the plot engaging and I enjoyed catching up with Martha and the other Gardin family members, it’s worth noting that “Christian” content is very light. Readers may benefit from the discussion about boundaries and communication, but should be aware that these discussions are tethered in modern psychology, rather than Scripture. As a reviewer with a strong Christian emphasis, I preferred Gardins of Edin because of the fun allegorical implications behind the characters’ names.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
Overt spiritual content is light: Characters attend church and pray. Martha solicits Christian relationship counseling (this subject matter focuses on themes like honesty and open-communication). The Gardin women are named after Bible characters, with special emphasis on the Naomi / Ruth relationship in Gardins of Edin .
The novel addresses some themes that are reflected in Scripture, but through a more psychological than spiritual lens. A Gardin Wedding highlights themes of duplicity and hypocrisy, as Martha’s romantic relationship evidences her desire for upward social mobility. While she is comfortable adopting a utilitarian approach to the relationship, she expects her romantic partner to employ a more heartfelt approach.
On a similar note, Martha, who has historically excluded Ruth from the Gardin family, learns how it feels to be the victim of such treatment.
Throughout the novel, Martha experiences character growth, as she comes to a place of deeper honesty and continues to repent of her manipulative and controlling ways (see 2 Cor. 4:2). Martha is a real and relatable character who certainly makes mistakes, but it’s also clear that she is learning from her mistakes.
On the flip side, Martha does demonstrate genuine care and concern for her community members, making a point to arrange outreach events for members of an under-served population (elderly and financially-disadvantaged).
What I Liked
While reading Gardins of Edin , I had an uncomfortable reaction to Martha’s character: a natural inclination to dislike her — alongside the uncomfortable recognition that I could see myself in her. Going into the sequel, I was more prepared to look in the mirror as I encountered Martha’s narration. At the same time, I appreciated the opportunity to witness Martha’s growth as a character.
While Gardins of Edin emphasizes mental health through a strong emphasis on therapy and familial reconciliation, A Gardin Wedding takes an introspective tack, with only one narrator. Like her main character, author Rosey Lee “is a physician, and her website notes that she “has dedicated her career to individual and community-based approaches to health equity.” Given that Martha spends some time organizing health-oriented community events, I do suspect a semi-autobiographical bent.
Although I was surprised that this book featured only Martha’s perspective, in contrast with the four-way narration from Gardins of Edin I felt that the pacing still worked. It was the sort of reading experience where I found the pages slipping by, even though there wasn’t a ton “happening.” The pacing also worked for me, due to the elapsing of time. The book begins in the summer months but then covers a generous portion of the year, with some months covering more specifics and others glossing over larger periods of time.
I enjoyed the opportunity to revisit the characters from book one, especially Ruth and Nicholas. Ruth continues to demonstrate a beautiful measure of grace to her younger relative, and it was really sweet to see how Nicholas took on a fatherly role in Martha’s life. Protective characters are some of my favorites, and I like that Nicholas is able to meet some of Martha’s emotional needs, as her own father passed away during her childhood. Nicholas is a neat “father” type because he has Martha’s best interests in mind as he watches out for her. At the same time, he demonstrates healthy boundaries in light of her history of manipulation.
Also in A Gardin Wedding , we meet Jasmine, Martha’s best friend from high school. Lee does an excellent job of slowly weaving in the characters’ shared history. Readers learn about Martha and Jasmine’s past while watching their present, professional relationship unfold.
Most books with the word “Wedding” in the title follow a similar “romance” pattern. A Gardin Wedding stands out in that I wouldn’t necessarily classify it as a romance. The book emphasizes communication and growth in a romantic partnership, rather than focusing on attraction and physicality. I appreciate the realness of the relationship.
Content Notes
Although I think the characters do kiss, these moments are quickly glossed over, which makes me very happy. Again, this does not need read as a “romance,” in that sense, and I would love to see more books focusing on what it means to build a healthy, lasting relationship.
Martha's boyfriend's father is diagnosed with vascular dementia. Characters are concerned for his well-being on more than one occasion. While this content may be a trigger, for some, I really like Lee’s choice to supplement the plot with medical information about the diagnosis. This offers a factual (and educational) buffer for the emotional content.
There's also a reference to Martha "saving" her romantic partner.
Recommendation Status
Although I found the plot engaging and I enjoyed catching up with Martha and the other Gardin family members, it’s worth noting that “Christian” content is very light. Readers may benefit from the discussion about boundaries and communication, but should be aware that these discussions are tethered in modern psychology, rather than Scripture. As a reviewer with a strong Christian emphasis, I preferred Gardins of Edin because of the fun allegorical implications behind the characters’ names.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
July 8, 2025
The follow up to The Gardins of Edin did NOT disappoint!
I did not see it for Miss Martha when I read the first book last year but we see her redemption and humbling in A Gardin Wedding.
I love seeing the relationship between Martha and Ruth being repaired. This was one of my gripes from the first book that I just couldn't get over-Martha being so unnecessarily mean and rude to Ruth and even to her sister Mary.
I also liked the relationship between Oji and Martha but I found myself wanting to see more of Ruth and Martha's interactions. I love when salvageable relationships heal!
The Gardin women have their flaws but they show that there is power in forgiveness, family togetherness, and sisterhood. The love they have for each other is beautiful to see and I can so relate to it as l come from a very matriarchal family myself.
This author's writing style is so beautiful and capturing!
The emotions she evokes with her pen and characters is perfection.
Thank you so much for the gifted copy Waterbrook Multnomah.
I did not see it for Miss Martha when I read the first book last year but we see her redemption and humbling in A Gardin Wedding.
I love seeing the relationship between Martha and Ruth being repaired. This was one of my gripes from the first book that I just couldn't get over-Martha being so unnecessarily mean and rude to Ruth and even to her sister Mary.
I also liked the relationship between Oji and Martha but I found myself wanting to see more of Ruth and Martha's interactions. I love when salvageable relationships heal!
The Gardin women have their flaws but they show that there is power in forgiveness, family togetherness, and sisterhood. The love they have for each other is beautiful to see and I can so relate to it as l come from a very matriarchal family myself.
This author's writing style is so beautiful and capturing!
The emotions she evokes with her pen and characters is perfection.
Thank you so much for the gifted copy Waterbrook Multnomah.
May 18, 2025
The Gardin Wedding by Rosey Lee is a christian fiction novel about Martha and how she navigates her ongoing relationship with Oji. This book is more than about romance it’s also about a personal growth journey for Martha herself. While Martha may not have been the most likable character but after all we can cheer her on and empathize with the struggles that she face which are so common for others also.The pace of the book was much slower than prefer but I understand it was needed for the evolution of Martha. In which made this an enjoyable read. Would recommend. Thanks to Netgalley and Waterbrook & Multnomah for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 13, 2025
“A Gardin Wedding” by Rosey Lee is a delightful addition to the Gardins of Erin series, weaving a rich tapestry of family bonds, friendship, and romantic moments. I haven't read the first book, yet I found this one quite enjoyable on its own. That said, I suspect I might have connected more deeply with the story had I read the first installment beforehand. There are numerous references to earlier events, and some plot points hit differently when you have that background.
The narrative centers on Martha as she works through her relationship with Oji and her journey of self-discovery. Initially, her character can be quite frustrating; she comes across as insecure and manipulative, and her decisions often leave much to be desired. At times, I found it challenging to relate to her. However, as the plot unfolds, Martha starts to recognize her shortcomings and makes more considerate choices, which gradually makes her a more endearing character. Throughout a season filled with unexpected trials, she relies on the support of the Gardin family and reconnects with an old friend, highlighting her growth along the way.
I really enjoyed this book! The story was engaging, and I absolutely adore the cover design.
The narrative centers on Martha as she works through her relationship with Oji and her journey of self-discovery. Initially, her character can be quite frustrating; she comes across as insecure and manipulative, and her decisions often leave much to be desired. At times, I found it challenging to relate to her. However, as the plot unfolds, Martha starts to recognize her shortcomings and makes more considerate choices, which gradually makes her a more endearing character. Throughout a season filled with unexpected trials, she relies on the support of the Gardin family and reconnects with an old friend, highlighting her growth along the way.
I really enjoyed this book! The story was engaging, and I absolutely adore the cover design.
February 23, 2025
Loved this story, but that couple and their mother-in-law were wild! I was really into how they handled their relationship while dealing with her opinions. It got me thinking about balancing personal life and family. The story was great, and I bet lots of people will relate. It made me think about family and boundaries. It was well-written; I highly recommend it—you won't be sorry! Thanks for the ARC!
July 23, 2025
I enjoyed this much more than I did the first book, The Gardins of Edin.
Martha really grew as a person and worked hard to mend her relationships with her family, and I loved reading how she and Oji grew their relationship. Only one thing I would change. The last book mentioned a healthier snickerdoodle and French toast, and this one mentioned a mocktail sangria that sounded delicious. Wish there had been a recipes.
I hope there will be more in this series.
Martha really grew as a person and worked hard to mend her relationships with her family, and I loved reading how she and Oji grew their relationship. Only one thing I would change. The last book mentioned a healthier snickerdoodle and French toast, and this one mentioned a mocktail sangria that sounded delicious. Wish there had been a recipes.
I hope there will be more in this series.
April 24, 2025
Rosey Lee did it again with a perfect sequel to The Gardins of Edin. The way she writes characters and the way they communicate is so refreshing. Her characters feel real, like you know someone like them in your town. I could picture every detail and I just know Martha had the most beautiful wedding. Martha and Oji have such a beautiful relationship, you can tell how much they love each other by how hard they work at trying to fix their relationship and learn to communicate with each other. I can't wait to read more by Rosey Lee and read more about the Gardin family.
January 26, 2025
Overall: 4
We back with the Edin sisters and get an update on where everyone is. Although they've made strides, somethings never change. They are still trying to hide the truth from each other instead of leaning on each other for the love and support they need. We continue the miscommunications, lies and secrets among the women and their men. Will Martha and Oji make it down the aisle? Another great romance written by Rosey Lee.
We back with the Edin sisters and get an update on where everyone is. Although they've made strides, somethings never change. They are still trying to hide the truth from each other instead of leaning on each other for the love and support they need. We continue the miscommunications, lies and secrets among the women and their men. Will Martha and Oji make it down the aisle? Another great romance written by Rosey Lee.
April 18, 2025
Revisiting the Gardin women is an absolute treat. This story is one of evolution...the way a human being evolves into who they are meant to be, who they are meant to be with and how a family finds themselves and becomes the source of strength each person needs. I found myself crying in the end throughout the last chapter because Rosey Lee beautifully ties this story in a gorgeous bow that will make you wanting more.
Rosey Lee did a terrific job in incorporating the importance of health, supporting caregivers and of course libraries and community. I absolutely loved the details throughout with regards to the beautiful surroundings of flowers and gardens and the wedding dress, which I had to Google to see in real life (the incredible story of the designer is one not to be missed and a beautiful tribute that Rosey pays homage to).
Rosey Lee did a terrific job in incorporating the importance of health, supporting caregivers and of course libraries and community. I absolutely loved the details throughout with regards to the beautiful surroundings of flowers and gardens and the wedding dress, which I had to Google to see in real life (the incredible story of the designer is one not to be missed and a beautiful tribute that Rosey pays homage to).
May 18, 2025
I didn’t quite enjoy A Gardin Wedding as much as the first book in the series. Although I understand the author uses biblical parallels for the characters, I struggled to grasp the connection between the biblical events and the story of the Gardin Eve. For me, the character of Eve was difficult to like, and even when her relationship with Martha started to improve, I didn’t feel any real change in her.
The pacing of the book also felt off at times. Some parts seemed to drag, while others progressed too quickly. The author is a talented writer, but I did feel that certain themes, like the constant crying and wiping of tears, became repetitive. Perhaps it’s just me, but it didn’t feel realistic for an entire family to be so emotionally vulnerable in every scene.
That said, I did appreciate the way the author tackled difficult topics like dementia. The subject is handled with care, offering insight into the support available for family members and ways to ease the effects on the patient. The storyline involving Oji and Martha, especially when she didn’t recognise that they were the same person, was well done and added depth to the narrative, particularly when it contributed to the wedding cancellation.
I also liked how the author advocates for self-reflection, improvement, and therapy. However, I would have liked to see more development of Eve’s character—specifically, what changed her heart. A bit more perspective on her transformation would have been helpful. Additionally, the author could work on showing the emotions the characters evoke, rather than telling the reader.
Overall, it’s a good story with some valuable themes, and I think it’s worth a read. I’m giving it 3 stars
The pacing of the book also felt off at times. Some parts seemed to drag, while others progressed too quickly. The author is a talented writer, but I did feel that certain themes, like the constant crying and wiping of tears, became repetitive. Perhaps it’s just me, but it didn’t feel realistic for an entire family to be so emotionally vulnerable in every scene.
That said, I did appreciate the way the author tackled difficult topics like dementia. The subject is handled with care, offering insight into the support available for family members and ways to ease the effects on the patient. The storyline involving Oji and Martha, especially when she didn’t recognise that they were the same person, was well done and added depth to the narrative, particularly when it contributed to the wedding cancellation.
I also liked how the author advocates for self-reflection, improvement, and therapy. However, I would have liked to see more development of Eve’s character—specifically, what changed her heart. A bit more perspective on her transformation would have been helpful. Additionally, the author could work on showing the emotions the characters evoke, rather than telling the reader.
Overall, it’s a good story with some valuable themes, and I think it’s worth a read. I’m giving it 3 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2025
There was just WAY too much therapy-speak, but not in a literal therapy sense. Let me try to explain.
I think it's great that people are becoming more comfortable with therapy techniques in their relationships. It's definitely becoming more common for people to verbalize these techniques with both family members and romantic partners! But, like, who actually talks like that 24/7? Was there a reason for these characters to be constantly talking about and thinking through things like they thought someone was secretly evaluating them? Earning points for virtuosity?
This review probably sounds ruder than I mean it to be, but I'd rather read a story with messily imperfect dialogue and characters that do not try so hard to be perfect. This one was just not for me.
I think it's great that people are becoming more comfortable with therapy techniques in their relationships. It's definitely becoming more common for people to verbalize these techniques with both family members and romantic partners! But, like, who actually talks like that 24/7? Was there a reason for these characters to be constantly talking about and thinking through things like they thought someone was secretly evaluating them? Earning points for virtuosity?
This review probably sounds ruder than I mean it to be, but I'd rather read a story with messily imperfect dialogue and characters that do not try so hard to be perfect. This one was just not for me.
May 26, 2025
Rosey Lee's "A Gardin Wedding: A Gardins of Edin Novel" is a heartwarming and engaging follow-up that delves into themes of love, forgiveness, and personal growth. While it's part of a series, the narrative is crafted in a way that allows new readers to enjoy Martha Gardin's journey, though existing fans will undoubtedly appreciate the deeper connections and references.
The story centers on Martha Gardin, a character known for her spirited nature and occasional tendency to stir up drama. As she navigates a serious relationship with the eligible Oji Greenwald, she finds herself facing unexpected challenges. Just as her life seems to be falling into place, a crisis within Oji's family brings out Martha's ingrained habits of trying to "fix" things her own way, leading to friction, particularly with Oji's mother, Eve. This conflict forces Martha into a journey of self-reflection and reconciliation with her past mistakes.
One of the most compelling aspects of this novel is Martha's character arc. Initially, her insecurities and sometimes misguided actions can be a source of frustration, but as the story progresses, her growth and increasing self-awareness make her a more empathetic and endearing protagonist. The strong bonds within the Gardin family are beautifully portrayed, providing a supportive backdrop for Martha's evolution and highlighting the power of sisterhood and unwavering familial love.
Lee skillfully weaves in delicate and important issues, such as dementia, handling them with sensitivity and authenticity. This adds a rich layer of depth to the story, making it more than just a romance. The descriptive narrative creates a vivid sense of place, particularly around the Gardin family estate and the wedding festivities, immersing the reader in the beautiful surroundings.
"A Gardin Wedding" is a delightful read for those who appreciate stories about self-discovery, the complexities of relationships, and the enduring strength of family. It's a testament to how individuals can evolve and find their path to love and happiness, even when faced with unforeseen obstacles.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (3.5/5)
Tropes:
Family Saga/Close-Knit Family: The "Gardins of Edin Novel" and repeated mentions of "family bonds," "Gardin family," "sisterhood," and "unwavering familial love" strongly indicate this trope.
Personal Growth/Self-Discovery: Martha's "journey of self-reflection and reconciliation with her past mistakes," her "character arc," and her "growth and increasing self-awareness" point to this.
Redemption Arc: Martha's transformation from being "misguided by distrust and insecurity" and "stirring up drama" to becoming "more empathetic and endearing" suggests a redemption arc.
Relationship Challenges/Conflict: The narrative highlights "unexpected challenges" in Martha's relationship with Oji and "friction, particularly with Oji's mother, Eve."
Healing/Forgiveness: The theme of "forgiveness" is explicitly mentioned.
In-laws/Family Dynamics: The conflict and interactions with "Oji's mother, Eve" are a key part of the plot.
My Rating System:
1⭐️: The book didn’t hold my interest and/or had significant issues that overshadowed any redeeming qualities for me, but generally not my cup of tea. Most likely did not finish the book.
2⭐️: The book didn’t quite resonate with me, and while my experience wasn’t remarkable, I did finish it. It had some redeeming qualities and potential but fell short in execution. Recommendable, though with some reservations.
3⭐️: Good read, but didn’t quite stand out. Still worth recommending to others.
4⭐️: Really enjoyed it and stayed engaged throughout. Would read the book again. Definitely recommendable.
5⭐️: Incredible writing that made me deeply connect with the characters. I was completely absorbed in the world and didn’t want it to end. This book stayed with me even when I wasn’t reading it. I'd gladly reread it and highly recommend it to everyone!
Thank you NetGalley!
The story centers on Martha Gardin, a character known for her spirited nature and occasional tendency to stir up drama. As she navigates a serious relationship with the eligible Oji Greenwald, she finds herself facing unexpected challenges. Just as her life seems to be falling into place, a crisis within Oji's family brings out Martha's ingrained habits of trying to "fix" things her own way, leading to friction, particularly with Oji's mother, Eve. This conflict forces Martha into a journey of self-reflection and reconciliation with her past mistakes.
One of the most compelling aspects of this novel is Martha's character arc. Initially, her insecurities and sometimes misguided actions can be a source of frustration, but as the story progresses, her growth and increasing self-awareness make her a more empathetic and endearing protagonist. The strong bonds within the Gardin family are beautifully portrayed, providing a supportive backdrop for Martha's evolution and highlighting the power of sisterhood and unwavering familial love.
Lee skillfully weaves in delicate and important issues, such as dementia, handling them with sensitivity and authenticity. This adds a rich layer of depth to the story, making it more than just a romance. The descriptive narrative creates a vivid sense of place, particularly around the Gardin family estate and the wedding festivities, immersing the reader in the beautiful surroundings.
"A Gardin Wedding" is a delightful read for those who appreciate stories about self-discovery, the complexities of relationships, and the enduring strength of family. It's a testament to how individuals can evolve and find their path to love and happiness, even when faced with unforeseen obstacles.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (3.5/5)
Tropes:
Family Saga/Close-Knit Family: The "Gardins of Edin Novel" and repeated mentions of "family bonds," "Gardin family," "sisterhood," and "unwavering familial love" strongly indicate this trope.
Personal Growth/Self-Discovery: Martha's "journey of self-reflection and reconciliation with her past mistakes," her "character arc," and her "growth and increasing self-awareness" point to this.
Redemption Arc: Martha's transformation from being "misguided by distrust and insecurity" and "stirring up drama" to becoming "more empathetic and endearing" suggests a redemption arc.
Relationship Challenges/Conflict: The narrative highlights "unexpected challenges" in Martha's relationship with Oji and "friction, particularly with Oji's mother, Eve."
Healing/Forgiveness: The theme of "forgiveness" is explicitly mentioned.
In-laws/Family Dynamics: The conflict and interactions with "Oji's mother, Eve" are a key part of the plot.
My Rating System:
1⭐️: The book didn’t hold my interest and/or had significant issues that overshadowed any redeeming qualities for me, but generally not my cup of tea. Most likely did not finish the book.
2⭐️: The book didn’t quite resonate with me, and while my experience wasn’t remarkable, I did finish it. It had some redeeming qualities and potential but fell short in execution. Recommendable, though with some reservations.
3⭐️: Good read, but didn’t quite stand out. Still worth recommending to others.
4⭐️: Really enjoyed it and stayed engaged throughout. Would read the book again. Definitely recommendable.
5⭐️: Incredible writing that made me deeply connect with the characters. I was completely absorbed in the world and didn’t want it to end. This book stayed with me even when I wasn’t reading it. I'd gladly reread it and highly recommend it to everyone!
Thank you NetGalley!
February 1, 2025
Thank you very much to Just Read Tours and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of A Gardin Wedding by Rosey Lee! It is always an honor to read advance copies of authors' work and I appreciate the opportunity!
I want to preface this by saying that it's possible that I would have enjoyed this book more if I had read the first book in the series prior to reading this one. There were lots of references back to the first book and I'm sure certain plot points would have been more meaningful with the context of the previous book. For that reason, if you do read this book, I recommend reading it AFTER the first book. Some series can be read out of order; although you can read this book as a standalone, I definitely felt like I was missing some information at some parts of this book.
That being said, A Gardin Wedding fell really flat for me. For starters, the character development lacked depth. Again, it's possible that the characters were more fully developed in the first book and maybe Ms. Lee felt that she didn't need to spend as much time fleshing them out this time around. Even so, I think it's important that each character, especially the main characters, feels real to the reader. I struggled to see the characters beyond the basic text. It's clear that the other characters see Martha as hot-headed and intrusive, but actually seeing inside her head as the reader, she comes off as very analytical and thoughtful. Even though a major theme of the book is that she's working on the more emotional part of herself, as the reader, we never actually see her struggle - we're told that she's struggling, but it's never portrayed in a way that adequately conveys the turmoil that must go along with such a personal journey.
Additionally, the chemistry between Martha and Oji is practically non-existent. I thought it was so bizarre how little they seemed to know each other at the beginning of the novel, and while they apparently get to know each other and work out their communication issues through therapy, those surely pivotal sessions and conversations are never shown to us. It makes their pathway from being on the verge of breaking up to getting married after all seem very sudden.
Pacing in general was another flaw. Time progresses with each chapter, and the time jumps were both inconsistent and resulted in major chunks of the story being left out. This isn't just limited to the progression of Martha and Oji's relationship; many of the obstacles that the characters face intensify or are solved in the space of these gaps between chapters and we're just told of them after the fact in the next chapter.
I love that Rosey Lee wanted to write a romance story with more depth to it. This story tackles tough issues like in-law struggles, dementia, and the challenges that come with merging lives as a soon-to-be-married couple. Unfortunately, I do think A Gardin Wedding is need of some more thorough editing to help bring some vibrancy to the story. One of the most common pieces of writing advice I've seen is "show, don't tell," and I think applying that concept to this manuscript would solve a lot of its problems. While the story might have been more meaningful had I read the first in the series, there are some deeper issues here beyond me just not understanding the full context, and they can only be solved by further edits.
I want to preface this by saying that it's possible that I would have enjoyed this book more if I had read the first book in the series prior to reading this one. There were lots of references back to the first book and I'm sure certain plot points would have been more meaningful with the context of the previous book. For that reason, if you do read this book, I recommend reading it AFTER the first book. Some series can be read out of order; although you can read this book as a standalone, I definitely felt like I was missing some information at some parts of this book.
That being said, A Gardin Wedding fell really flat for me. For starters, the character development lacked depth. Again, it's possible that the characters were more fully developed in the first book and maybe Ms. Lee felt that she didn't need to spend as much time fleshing them out this time around. Even so, I think it's important that each character, especially the main characters, feels real to the reader. I struggled to see the characters beyond the basic text. It's clear that the other characters see Martha as hot-headed and intrusive, but actually seeing inside her head as the reader, she comes off as very analytical and thoughtful. Even though a major theme of the book is that she's working on the more emotional part of herself, as the reader, we never actually see her struggle - we're told that she's struggling, but it's never portrayed in a way that adequately conveys the turmoil that must go along with such a personal journey.
Additionally, the chemistry between Martha and Oji is practically non-existent. I thought it was so bizarre how little they seemed to know each other at the beginning of the novel, and while they apparently get to know each other and work out their communication issues through therapy, those surely pivotal sessions and conversations are never shown to us. It makes their pathway from being on the verge of breaking up to getting married after all seem very sudden.
Pacing in general was another flaw. Time progresses with each chapter, and the time jumps were both inconsistent and resulted in major chunks of the story being left out. This isn't just limited to the progression of Martha and Oji's relationship; many of the obstacles that the characters face intensify or are solved in the space of these gaps between chapters and we're just told of them after the fact in the next chapter.
I love that Rosey Lee wanted to write a romance story with more depth to it. This story tackles tough issues like in-law struggles, dementia, and the challenges that come with merging lives as a soon-to-be-married couple. Unfortunately, I do think A Gardin Wedding is need of some more thorough editing to help bring some vibrancy to the story. One of the most common pieces of writing advice I've seen is "show, don't tell," and I think applying that concept to this manuscript would solve a lot of its problems. While the story might have been more meaningful had I read the first in the series, there are some deeper issues here beyond me just not understanding the full context, and they can only be solved by further edits.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2025
Martha Gardin has worked her whole life to have the life others would envy. When she finds Oji Greenwald, who’s influential family is one that is admired in town, and they begin dating, she knows this is the perfect move to get those last few things on her list: husband, big house, and societal status. However, the drama she’s created with her own family is now coming back to haunt her with her potential new family. As things start to unravel Martha has to take a good hard look at her heart and motives and look beyond the superficial things. Is her relationship with Oji a power move? Or is there really love between them? Will there be another Gardin wedding on the calendar?
Following closely behind the events of the first book, The Gardins of Edin, this book focuses on probably most people’s least favorite character, Martha! Whereas in the first book we got the story from all four women’s perspectives, this one is only told from Martha’s. I loved seeing the growth of her character. It is a great redemptive story, through hard work and accountability, not just “book magic”. I appreciated how some really tough topics (childhood trauma, financial issues, caring for dementia patients, etc.) were covered in a very respectful and encouraging way. I can see this book being used as a resource to talk about these topics.
I would recommend this book if you like family dramas with good outcomes. I would definitely say you should read the first book first, however, as you will understand the characters more and truly see and cheer for Martha’s transformation!
It was published this week, so go ahead and grab both The Gardins of Edin and this one!
Thank you to @netgalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my review!
#NetGalley #AGardinWedding
Following closely behind the events of the first book, The Gardins of Edin, this book focuses on probably most people’s least favorite character, Martha! Whereas in the first book we got the story from all four women’s perspectives, this one is only told from Martha’s. I loved seeing the growth of her character. It is a great redemptive story, through hard work and accountability, not just “book magic”. I appreciated how some really tough topics (childhood trauma, financial issues, caring for dementia patients, etc.) were covered in a very respectful and encouraging way. I can see this book being used as a resource to talk about these topics.
I would recommend this book if you like family dramas with good outcomes. I would definitely say you should read the first book first, however, as you will understand the characters more and truly see and cheer for Martha’s transformation!
It was published this week, so go ahead and grab both The Gardins of Edin and this one!
Thank you to @netgalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my review!
#NetGalley #AGardinWedding
June 8, 2025
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘎𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
I really enjoyed reading A Garden Wedding by Rosey Lee. It’s a sweet, emotional, and feel-good story that kept me hooked from start to finish. The book is about old friends, second chances, and the beauty of new beginnings — all set against the charming backdrop of a garden wedding.
Martha is such a relatable and strong character. I loved how the author showed her inner journey — dealing with past hurts, doubts, and fears, while still trying to move forward. Oji, on the other hand, is one of those quietly supportive and kind characters you can’t help but root for. The chemistry between them was natural and heartwarming, and I enjoyed watching their connection grow.
Their story felt like a beautiful reminder that sometimes love comes back when you least expect it, and that it’s never too late to take a chance on happiness. The wedding setting was perfect — full of joy, hope, and the magic of new beginnings. The garden itself almost felt like another character in the story, bringing a soft, peaceful vibe that matched Martha and Oji’s journey so well.
Rosey Lee’s writing is simple and engaging, with just the right balance of emotion and lightness. The pacing was good, and I appreciated the focus on personal growth as much as the romance. If I had one tiny wish, it would be to see a bit more depth in Oji’s past — but overall, I loved their story.
I really enjoyed reading A Garden Wedding by Rosey Lee. It’s a sweet, emotional, and feel-good story that kept me hooked from start to finish. The book is about old friends, second chances, and the beauty of new beginnings — all set against the charming backdrop of a garden wedding.
Martha is such a relatable and strong character. I loved how the author showed her inner journey — dealing with past hurts, doubts, and fears, while still trying to move forward. Oji, on the other hand, is one of those quietly supportive and kind characters you can’t help but root for. The chemistry between them was natural and heartwarming, and I enjoyed watching their connection grow.
Their story felt like a beautiful reminder that sometimes love comes back when you least expect it, and that it’s never too late to take a chance on happiness. The wedding setting was perfect — full of joy, hope, and the magic of new beginnings. The garden itself almost felt like another character in the story, bringing a soft, peaceful vibe that matched Martha and Oji’s journey so well.
Rosey Lee’s writing is simple and engaging, with just the right balance of emotion and lightness. The pacing was good, and I appreciated the focus on personal growth as much as the romance. If I had one tiny wish, it would be to see a bit more depth in Oji’s past — but overall, I loved their story.
May 27, 2025
Martha Gardin, recovering troublemaker of the Gardin family, has met her match in Oji Greenwald. From the outside, the two seem like a match made in heaven, so when he unexpectedly proposes, she’s all in. But Oji’s overbearing mom is not thrilled with the new addition to the family.
As the weeks go by, Martha senses something is off. During a weekend at a premarital couples event, she finds out something that shows her just how much of a match Oji is—in the most devastating way. Will they be able to salvage their relationship and make it down the aisle?
This book was a lovely follow-up to The Gardins of Edin and I really enjoyed it! I loved seeing the family unit grown tighter and Martha continue to work through her own issues. The growth in her character from the last book to this one was incredible!
I also loved the topics this book touched on—insecurity, childhood wounds, and navigating broken friendships. I also loved the medical focus in this one on vascular dementia, a topic I didn’t know much about or how much of a role it plays in the African-American community.
I loved being back in Edin with this family and seeing Martha and Oji’s story unfold. Just the right amount of drama in this one!
As a PRH audio partner, I listened to this audiobook for free. All opinions are my own.
As the weeks go by, Martha senses something is off. During a weekend at a premarital couples event, she finds out something that shows her just how much of a match Oji is—in the most devastating way. Will they be able to salvage their relationship and make it down the aisle?
This book was a lovely follow-up to The Gardins of Edin and I really enjoyed it! I loved seeing the family unit grown tighter and Martha continue to work through her own issues. The growth in her character from the last book to this one was incredible!
I also loved the topics this book touched on—insecurity, childhood wounds, and navigating broken friendships. I also loved the medical focus in this one on vascular dementia, a topic I didn’t know much about or how much of a role it plays in the African-American community.
I loved being back in Edin with this family and seeing Martha and Oji’s story unfold. Just the right amount of drama in this one!
As a PRH audio partner, I listened to this audiobook for free. All opinions are my own.
August 27, 2025
In this interesting and emotional novel, readers follow engaged couple Martha Gardin and Oji Greenwald as they get ready to marry after becoming a local power couple. Oji is one of the most eligible bachelors in town, and Martha is a competent medical professional, but Martha has her own challenges to deal with before Oji’s family problems come to a head and worsen the divide between Martha and Oji’s mother Eve. Forced to acknowledge her mistakes and deal with the repercussions, Martha must go on a personal journey to heal herself and her relationships to get the future and happy ending she wants. Emotional, intense, and fun, readers will love this detailed character and relationship study from Rosey Lee. The characters are the stars of the book, and their relationships are well-written and packed with details that readers will love. The setting and social aspects are great backdrops to the larger conflicts and issues in the book, and readers will also find the characters’ struggles to be relatable and their growth to be rewarding. Fun, entertaining, and emotional, readers who love character-centric stories, complex character arcs, and imperfect protagonists who work on themselves will love this new release from Rosey Lee.
Thanks to NetGalley, WaterBrook & Multnomah, and WaterBrook for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley, WaterBrook & Multnomah, and WaterBrook for the advance copy.
June 1, 2025
A Gardin Wedding by Rosey Lee is the second book in A Gardin of Edin novels. I feel like it could be a stand-alone, but it might be more enjoyable if you read the first book, A Garden of Edin. Martha Gardin is a successful physician who is used to getting her own way. She is part of the Gardin family and is not always easy to be with. She thinks things are looking up for her when she begins dating Oji and is hopeful that they will get married. But his family just does not seem to like her.
For me A Gardin Wedding was a breath of fresh air. The author takes you on a journey with Martha, Oji and the Gardin family in this character driven story. Martha changes from someone you really would not be thrilled to sit by to being someone who you would want to be her friend. I loved that this is a story of hope, family, and the belief that we can all become better people. The story is a good reminder that we only see the surface of people and to remember that everyone has a story.
I appreciated A Gardin Wedding with its redemptive themes of hope and family. There was a beautiful realness to the story. I highly recommend A Gardin Wedding and it will be one of my favorites of 2025.
I was given a complimentary copy and not required to write a positive review.
For me A Gardin Wedding was a breath of fresh air. The author takes you on a journey with Martha, Oji and the Gardin family in this character driven story. Martha changes from someone you really would not be thrilled to sit by to being someone who you would want to be her friend. I loved that this is a story of hope, family, and the belief that we can all become better people. The story is a good reminder that we only see the surface of people and to remember that everyone has a story.
I appreciated A Gardin Wedding with its redemptive themes of hope and family. There was a beautiful realness to the story. I highly recommend A Gardin Wedding and it will be one of my favorites of 2025.
I was given a complimentary copy and not required to write a positive review.
January 21, 2025
I had mixed feelings about the book due to it being based on the most unlikable chracter of the firstbook. The story follows Martha, a woman who’s often her own worst enemy, as she navigates her relationship with Oji Greenwald and her own personal growth. Martha’s character is tough to like at first. She’s insecure, manipulative, and often makes choices that are frustrating to witness. There were moments when I struggled to empathize with her, and I found the pace of the story slow at times.
That said, I’m glad I stuck with it because toward the end, Martha does show some growth. She starts to confront her flaws and begins making more thoughtful decisions, which made her more relatable and, dare I say, likable. Her journey wasn’t easy, and while the pace was slower than I would’ve liked, I appreciated how the author took time to develop her character. If you’re willing to push through the slower moments, you’ll find that Martha’s evolution is a rewarding aspect of the book.
Thanks to Netgalley and WaterBrook & Multnomah | WaterBrook for the ARC and opportunity to provide an honest review.
That said, I’m glad I stuck with it because toward the end, Martha does show some growth. She starts to confront her flaws and begins making more thoughtful decisions, which made her more relatable and, dare I say, likable. Her journey wasn’t easy, and while the pace was slower than I would’ve liked, I appreciated how the author took time to develop her character. If you’re willing to push through the slower moments, you’ll find that Martha’s evolution is a rewarding aspect of the book.
Thanks to Netgalley and WaterBrook & Multnomah | WaterBrook for the ARC and opportunity to provide an honest review.
May 10, 2025
This book is an interesting story of a successful family, but one that has seen tragedy. Martha is a physician, but she lost her parents early. The family lives in a compound that is gorgeous and protected. Martha has been dating Oji and she loves him. She is anxious to become married to him and to be a mother. They seem so well suited to each other. But I was not enamored with either of the couple.
When they unexpectedly become engaged, Martha begins to see that perhaps they have different expectations of each other and their future. After they start couples counseling, secrets are revealed and deep hurts are uncovered.
It's interesting that some of the issues that are discussed in this book are things that many people are dealing with. The situations are handled in a manner that fits well within the story while educating the reader on health and social issues. And as I understood the main characters better, I liked them much more and enjoyed the happy ending.
This book is the second book of the series. I think it might have been beneficial to have read the first book before this one.
When they unexpectedly become engaged, Martha begins to see that perhaps they have different expectations of each other and their future. After they start couples counseling, secrets are revealed and deep hurts are uncovered.
It's interesting that some of the issues that are discussed in this book are things that many people are dealing with. The situations are handled in a manner that fits well within the story while educating the reader on health and social issues. And as I understood the main characters better, I liked them much more and enjoyed the happy ending.
This book is the second book of the series. I think it might have been beneficial to have read the first book before this one.
May 9, 2025
One thing I will say about this book is that is entertaining for sure! The drama that unfolds between the family members is definitely something of true fiction. I feel, ha ha ha. In the first book of the series, we’re exploring a different set of characters in this world, but in this second novel, we are actually Following a different character, which is Martha one of the two sisters from the first book. In this book, Martha is navigating dealing with the beginning and not only a new and fresh relationship but also the compromises it takes when you are considering marriage. I love that Martha still gets what she is wishing for in the end, I just wish that it didn’t take so many stressful situations to get there at times. The Greenwald family (specifically Eve) was working my nerve most of the story, but I understood that her actions were supposed to lead us somewhere greater in the end. I did enjoy the story and getting some closure about some of the other characters from the first book of the series!
May 19, 2025
"It is an honor to earn the love of a Gardin woman."
Love is definitely in the air for Martha Gardin even though she is still a mess. Martha has met her equal with Oji Greenwald but has seemed to strike a negative chord with Oji's mother, Eve Greenwald after attempting to offer medical advice in regards to Eve's husband, Adam.
I am so glad Martha had her fairytale happy ending with Oji. I was smiling so hard at the last several pages of the book. While Martha was initially hesitant, therapy was a key component to Martha's transformation and journey to her happily ever after. Compared to how she was in The Gardens of Edin, it was quite enjoyable to see a much softer side of Martha.
This is book 2 of the Gardins of Edins series. While this is a standalone read, I would suggest reading the first book of the series, The Gardins of Edin.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys book centered around family, romance, forgiveness and new beginnings.
3.75 stars rounded up
Love is definitely in the air for Martha Gardin even though she is still a mess. Martha has met her equal with Oji Greenwald but has seemed to strike a negative chord with Oji's mother, Eve Greenwald after attempting to offer medical advice in regards to Eve's husband, Adam.
I am so glad Martha had her fairytale happy ending with Oji. I was smiling so hard at the last several pages of the book. While Martha was initially hesitant, therapy was a key component to Martha's transformation and journey to her happily ever after. Compared to how she was in The Gardens of Edin, it was quite enjoyable to see a much softer side of Martha.
This is book 2 of the Gardins of Edins series. While this is a standalone read, I would suggest reading the first book of the series, The Gardins of Edin.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys book centered around family, romance, forgiveness and new beginnings.
3.75 stars rounded up
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2025
This cover, right? Gorgeous! I really enjoyed The Gardins of Edin, and A Gardin Wedding is its follow-up, leading up to Martha’s wedding to her fiance Oji. The love between the two feels very real, and I admired the way they sought premarital counseling to work out some issues that arise. Oji’s mother adds a relatable arc to the story with several family dynamics to explore, including those among the sisters as well.
I also really enjoyed how the author explored dementia in the story. It was handled sensitively and felt authentic to the storyline. Overall, this is another sold story about the Gardin sisters, and I’m hoping we’ll hear Mary’s story next. Just like its predecessor, A Gardin Wedding is a clean romance with biblical references tied in, while being fully accessible to secular readers as well.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
I also really enjoyed how the author explored dementia in the story. It was handled sensitively and felt authentic to the storyline. Overall, this is another sold story about the Gardin sisters, and I’m hoping we’ll hear Mary’s story next. Just like its predecessor, A Gardin Wedding is a clean romance with biblical references tied in, while being fully accessible to secular readers as well.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
May 13, 2025
Thank you to the author and publisher for a gifted copy of this beautiful book!
📖 Book Review 📖 Let’s talk everything weddings…has anyone who actually caught the bouquet at the wedding ever actually been the next to get married? I once went to a wedding where a dude jumped in, towering over all the single ladies, and swiped it and there was some solid anger. Weddings are a beautiful affair but can come with a lot of heightened emotions, especially for the Gardin family who have been dealt their fair share of blows. Family is complicated and blending a family through marriage is also quite a daunting task; Rosey Lee tackles these issues head on in a realistic yet beautifully riveting and uplifting take in her latest novel. Healing is hard work but the reward of a hope for a brighter future certainly shines bright; and A Gardin Wedding manifests this with a whole lot of brilliance and a heavy dash of southern charm!
📖 Book Review 📖 Let’s talk everything weddings…has anyone who actually caught the bouquet at the wedding ever actually been the next to get married? I once went to a wedding where a dude jumped in, towering over all the single ladies, and swiped it and there was some solid anger. Weddings are a beautiful affair but can come with a lot of heightened emotions, especially for the Gardin family who have been dealt their fair share of blows. Family is complicated and blending a family through marriage is also quite a daunting task; Rosey Lee tackles these issues head on in a realistic yet beautifully riveting and uplifting take in her latest novel. Healing is hard work but the reward of a hope for a brighter future certainly shines bright; and A Gardin Wedding manifests this with a whole lot of brilliance and a heavy dash of southern charm!
December 27, 2024
A story of family and learning about your self. Martha is a successful doctor she is becoming better at relationships with her family but is finding it a challenge to navigate her relationships with her boyfriend, Oji Greenwald, and his parents. With the honesty and support of her family she continues the journey to learn more about herself and figure out what she wants out of life. The characters and their relationships seemed real and I like the way the hard truths about life and relationships were handled. I recommend this book to readers that enjoy their romances to be honest and full of strong women and family.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and Kate Rock Book Tours for providing a gifted copy for my honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and Kate Rock Book Tours for providing a gifted copy for my honest review.
May 13, 2025
I loved the plot and the sisters are so much fun. I see that this is not a standalone, I felt like I was missing something, but over all, Yes Martha is going through it, from trying to impress her mother in law, to trying to keep her life on track and even her relationship with Oji, things got a little wild when he proposed, but the way he went about it???? NO NO.
I was rooting for Martha all the way, but I felt like she lacked maturity, so did Oji.
I was rooting for Martha all the way, but I felt like she lacked maturity, so did Oji.
August 11, 2025
Shouts out to NetGalley for the ARC.
I may have benefitted from reading the other books in this series for more context when it comes to the familial and contentious relationships and history here. I’ll be honest that neither of the MCs are at all likeable. They seemed shallow and immature and only wanted to be together for the benefits they saw in linking families. Pretty devoid of affection and romance. This one was just okay to me.
I may have benefitted from reading the other books in this series for more context when it comes to the familial and contentious relationships and history here. I’ll be honest that neither of the MCs are at all likeable. They seemed shallow and immature and only wanted to be together for the benefits they saw in linking families. Pretty devoid of affection and romance. This one was just okay to me.
August 15, 2025
This was the kind of book I needed at the moment. What I like most is (1) family is messy and complicated (2) the characters are willing to do the work to better themselves and improve relationships. Mental health and therapy are not often viewed positively in the Black community so I like that the author centers several characters pursuing it as the best way to deal with and work through trauma. 3.5⭐️
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