The Memory Garden: A Contemporary Small-Town Christian Novel

by Jessica Brodie

Sometimes hope blooms in the most unexpected places.
Rock-bottom has a name for Rebecca Chastain, and it’s Dahlia, South Carolina.

Once a celebrated big-city journalist with a promising future, Rebecca now finds herself shattered—jobless, abandoned by her fiancé, and haunted by her own desperate attempt to escape it all. The small-town newspaper job in her granny’s hometown isn’t just a step down but a humiliating reminder of everything she’s tried to outrun. If not for reconnecting with her childhood friend, Josh, she’d already be gone.

Then there’s Devon—an eleven-year-old boy with eyes too old for his years, caring for his ailing Memaw while hiding stories he’s terrified to share.

When Rebecca’s reporting brings their lives together, something unexpected begins to take root in the barren soil of her heart. But Devon’s dangerous uncle is closing in, and time is running out for Rebecca to open her eyes and see what’s going on before it’s too late. As shadows lengthen over Dahlia, Rebecca must decide if she’ll retreat to safety or stand her ground for a boy who’s fighting his own battles—and perhaps find healing for herself in what she once called the last place on earth she’d ever return to.

Some gardens only bloom after the harshest storms. Buy Book One in the Dahlia Series today, where grace meets grit in a small Southern town where faith is tested, hearts are mended, and hope refuses to stay buried.

Genres: Christian Fiction

368 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2025

About the author

Jessica Brodie is an award-winning journalist, author, blogger, editor, writing coach, and devotional writer with thousands of articles to her name. Since 2010, she has served as the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism, which has won 123 journalism awards during her tenure. Her latest book is Preparing Our Hearts: An Advent Devotional to Draw Closer to God at Christmas.

She has won more than 100 writing awards and is a seasoned speaker and frequent contributor to Christianity.com, BibleStudyTools.com, and Crosswalk.com, among many others. She has a weekly faith blog at https://www.jessicabrodie.com/ and is part of the team at Wholly Loved Ministries, with her work included in many of their devotionals and Bible studies.

You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and more. She’s also produced a free eBook, A God-Centered Life: 10 Faith-Based Practices When You’re Feeling Anxious, Grumpy, or Stressed. It is available on her website.

Brodie holds a Master of Arts in English, and she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in communications/print journalism from Florida International University. Born and raised in Miami, Brodie now lives in Lexington, South Carolina, just outside Columbia. She has also lived in Ohio and in the mountains of western North Carolina. She and her husband, Matt Brodie, have a blended family of four teenage children and stepchildren.

Brodie has written several novels and is actively seeking publication through her agent Bob Hostetler of The Steve Laube Agency. Her novel The Memory Garden won the 2018 Genesis contest for Contemporary Fiction from American Christian Fiction Writers, and her novel Tangled Roots won a third place Foundation Award in Contemporary Romance at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference in 2019.

Reviews

[Robin Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book! Jessica Brodie's "The Memory Garden" satisfies all my reading needs perfectly. The writing is gorgeous, her characters relatable and well developed, and the story is gripping.

She has mastered the ability to quickly pull the reader into the action, ramping up the story slowly enough to create anticipation without losing reader interest, and dropping unexpected conflict at just the right moment. I found myself reading long past my bedtime just so I could find out what would happen NEXT!

I was delighted to realize this is the first book in The Dahlia Series so will eagerly look forward to book #2 to learn more about this memorable town and its captivating residents. Fantastic book! I'd love to live in Dahlia!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story was so engaging and did a great job pulling me forward to read each new chapter.
The author created lovely characters who are fully developed and interesting in many ways.
Her book also spoke so thoughtfully about the need to address social injustice issues with practical help that can be fun and rewarding.
It's a story you won't forget with endearing characters.
I can't wait for the other two books in the series to release!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes it takes a child

Wow!!! What a great story that will keep you hooked from page 1! It's often in the most scary circumstance that someone can come to Jesus. I can't wait till book 2!!!

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Memory Garden is a beautiful and heartfelt novel that pulled me in more and more as I read. The story started a little slowly, but once it found its rhythm, it became a true page-turner. I found myself deeply invested in the characters and their journeys — their struggles, hopes, and personal growth felt real and compelling. Jessica Brodie has created a touching story about memory, love, and healing that stays with you long after you turn the last page. I’m so glad I read this, and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys character-driven stories with emotional depth.

[Sheryl Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up in a town like Dahlia where my name was in the local paper for being on the honor roll in 8th grade. As I read this book, I didn’t long for living in simpler times, but instead for being part of a community that cared about each other and worked together to make it a better place for everyone who lived there.

I cared about the characters in this book. I love Rebecca because she struggles to finally accept that she is a work in progress. She isn’t perfect and the life she started in the city wasn’t right for her. Her granny takes her home to give her a chance to find her true self. God gives her a chance to pause, regroup and relearn. All of us should have someone like Rebecca’s Granny in our lives offering doses of unconditional love and wisdom as needed. Devon has the wisdom of ages but he’s only 11. He’s a problem solver but life isn’t perfect for him either. The tension in his life is heartbreaking. This story reminded me how people can make a difference in their lives and the lives of others, that God puts the people in our lives that we need.

This is a thoughtful story full of interesting characters. I love how their lives intertwine and how events produce change in the lives of the people who live in Dahlia. I’ll visit this place again.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a well written “feel good” book that was hard to put down. I loved it and can’t wait for the second book of the series to come out this fall!

[Lois Kennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

From her hospital bed in New York City to Granny's house in Dahlia, South Carolina, the distance and differences seem overwhelming to protagonist Rebecca Chastain. Yet, this heart-throbbing novel unfolds gently, like a southern, summer day, capturing a pace in which moments last long enough to savor. Rarely does a debut novel flow as beautifully as "The Memory Garden." Not to say that life in small-town Dahlia is perfect. On the contrary, life and death struggles emerge quickly, drawing the reader into a story that's hard to set aside. Even after consuming the final page, this reader finds herself compelled to return to favorite chapters and linger, re-reading meaningful, heartfelt passages and thoughts well worth remembering.

[KaIyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A poignant and emotionally resonant story about loss, resilience, and rediscovery, this novel takes readers on a heartfelt journey through personal failure and unexpected hope. Rebecca’s fall from grace and reluctant return to her roots is both painfully relatable and deeply moving. The small-town setting, combined with the warmth of rekindled friendship with Josh, creates a beautiful contrast to her inner turmoil. A touching exploration of second chances, this story reminds us that sometimes healing begins where it all started.

[Kerrie Devoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica Brodie's debut novel is a heartfelt story about grief, forgiveness and healing power of God's love. This book is beautifully written and rooted in faith. I've had the privilege of seeing how Jessica's heart for the Lord pours into every chapter. Her prayer is that this book will draw people to Christ and I believe it will. An inspiring read that will stay with you. It has left a lasting impression on me.

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author knows how to tell a story! She captures the reader’s attention at the start and won’t let go until the very end. It is challenging to not read the full story in one sitting! The characters feel alive on the page and the reader is sure to have their favorites and their not so favorites like the villains in this book. Jessica Brodie brings the story together very well and the ending felt like a movie scene.

[Chantelle Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotionally Gripping

Jessica Brodie did an incredible job maneuvering difficult topics with grace and sensitivity. The POV of Devon was well done and a precious part of this novel. While written from a Christian world view, it wasn’t overdone but held the perfect amount of real-life application. The sweet, budding romance was the icing on the cake. I’m looking forward to the second book in this series!

[Brad Reeves · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot believe I loved this book. It is too long for me and in a fiction style I usually find frustrating and boring. Yet, she had me almost from the beginning. Well written with engaging characters, the plot streams on with many twists and turns. It is Christian, but the faith is interwoven in a natural, believable way. So, much better than many other “Christian” books. Thank you, Jessica, for this story of Dahlia, SC.

[Jessy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca’s journey from brokenness to finding herself again in Dahlia felt so real and raw. I loved how the author captured her pain, her slow healing, and the unexpected connections that gave her purpose again, especially with Devon, who completely melted my heart.

It’s one of those stories that reminds you that even in the darkest seasons, hope can bloom again. Beautifully written and deeply moving.

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some stories stay with the reader forever. This is one of those special stories. Heartwarming and at times, heartbreaking, I found myself wrapped in the lives of the characters as if I knew them personally. I cried, smiled, cheered, held my breath at times, and I thanked God for people like author Jessica Brodie who share their faith in God with others. Excellent read.

[Michael Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading Jessica Brodie's newest book, The Memory Garden. (It is available right now on Amazon as a Kindle book, and will be available in print soon.) I find the story captivating, and the characters real. They are by no means sugar-coated, but each, in their own way, finds and gives hope to others. It's a story that is needed today! Check it out!

[Melissa McLaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging and Irresistible Story of Hope

Unforgettable. The Memory Garden leaves a deep impression on your soul. Characters rise from the ashes, summoning strength to start again. Faith in family, community, and Christ restores hope and blazes new paths for the future. Engaging and heart-stirring. This book is an irresistible page-turner. I loved this book!

[Jennifer Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Irresistible! If you’re drawn to a sweet Southern setting with unforgettable characters, you’re going to fall in love with Jessica Brodie’s “The Memory Garden.” Her compelling plotlines flow in and out, keeping your attention. She blends real-life hardships and true faith with the beauty of her prose – and leaves the reader avidly awaiting Book 2.

[Cele LeBlanc · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Memory Garden takes Rebecca Chastain from the absolute lowest low in life to a life of joy and peace. Influenced bit by bit by believers who sought to follow Christ in their daily lives, Rebecca came to understand what faith means and to experience God’s miracles personally. Lovely story of how true believers care for others.

[Crystal Storms · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved strolling the charming streets of Dahlia and getting to know the people who call it home. Jessica Brodie has a gift for drawing you in with warmth and depth, and she kept me turning pages long after I planned to stop. The Memory Garden left a gentle imprint on my heart, and I look forward to the next book in the series.

[Danielle Papageorgiou · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Memory Garden immediately captured my attention and drew me in! The writing is beautiful and engaging, and the characters came to life in my mind. It's the perfect book to curl up with at the end of the day that will help you relax and be drawn closer to God at the same time.

[Cori Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a lot of books. Some leave me sad, some confused, some angry, some a waste of several hours. This book, The Memory Garden left me hopeful and anxious for another by this new Christian author. She is very talented author and I look forward to the newest Dahlia book.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely book with a strong Christian message.
Rebecca—lost job and fiancé and almost her life;
Granny—who rescued Rebecca and took her to Dahlia, SC, to run a failing newspaper and get back on her feet;
Devon—young man whose Memaw is raising him and whose bike uncle is a druggie;

[Suzan Rolland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never cry

But, reading this book, I was so happy at one point I shed a few tears. It took me a little bit to get started, but then it was a sit down, and everything else had to wait while I finished reading.

[Gayle Woldemar · Rating 5 out of 5]

heartwarming story

The Memory Garden is a heartwarming story of family and friends that become family. With characters you will come to know and love. I thoroughly enjoyed the book from the first page to the last page.

[Dana Goshorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charming story with vibrant characters and setting. Reminiscent of a Hallmark movie- but in the BEST way. A female character makes her way in a new setting, and finds God through her community.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved The Memory Garden by Jessica Brodie! A touching, hopeful story about healing and second chances. Heartfelt and uplifting—highly recommend!

[Barb Winters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this well-written book. The author brought real world problems into this heartwarming story. A good wholesome faith-filled book with a captivating plot.

[Jan Harmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, the reader is pulled into the despair of Rebecca's new reality. And there is Devon, who doesn't want anyone to know his reality. Both characters have you pulling for them with hope, resilience, commuity, friendships, and family. It only takes one person to begin to make a difference. This book can give you ideas. I'm looking forward to the second book in the Dalia series in fall 2025.

[Linda Sammaritan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Memory Garden has all the charm of southern fiction, a side of romance, a huge portion of family affection, and an unusual friendship between a boy of great faith and a young woman lost in her loneliness.

Rebecca. Entitled. She’s a journalist, driven to produce, produce, produce in New York City--and she’s good at her job—until she loses it.

Devon. Poverty-stricken. Still in elementary school. Mom dead. Dad disappeared. Grandma sick. Uncle a menace. Yet Devon is still a solid Christian, thanks to his mama and the memory garden.

Forced to start anew after a series of devastating events, Rebecca moves to Dahlia, South Carolina, where she used to spend her childhood summers with Granny. Her grandmother, a wise woman of faith, has arranged for her to take over the struggling little newspaper in town. She can’t wait until she can prove her abilities so she can return to the Big Apple. But the townspeople can tell she is not the editor they want for their hometown paper, and she’s losing subscribers.
When Rebecca connects with Devon, she has her first glimpse of pure goodness. He’s open, a clean soul, and he has great ideas! But Devon has a huge problem, and he’s afraid to tell anyone.

Jessica Brodie adds tension as the reader wonders who’s worse? Uncle Terrence or the group that wants to take over Rebecca’s newspaper? Yes, as time goes by, she wants this struggling small business to succeed!
Then, there’s Josh, her old fishing buddy from childhood…

And I love the tagline at the end of her blurb:
Some gardens only bloom after the harshest storms.

I highly recommend this book!

[Yvonne Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an enjoyable read with amazing characters. I highly recommend it.