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Dark Gardens #1
Garden of Shadows
Danger lurks for Julia Marsden, the daughter of the late vicar of St. Lodore’s Church in the quiet village of Borrowdale.
Julia doesn’t believe in faeries or magic or dreams coming true, but odd things have been happening at the vicarage lately that cannot be explained. Her orphaned cousin, Charlie, believes in mythical creatures and claims that faeries now inhabit the vicarage’s bluebell garden. The boy also claims the faerie king, Cadeyrn, has promised to make him a prince in his kingdom and teach crippled Charlie to walk again if he will cross into the Fae realm.
As the faerie king’s influence on the boy grows stronger, another threat emerges from the boy’s uncle—Douglas Hawke, the Earl of Eastbourne, who has come to wrench him from Julia’s guardianship. Julia is determined to fight both men, but as she and the boy begin to fall under the spell of the faerie king, Julia realizes that only her love for Douglas can save them.
But is Douglas capable of loving her, even at the cost of his own life?
Julia doesn’t believe in faeries or magic or dreams coming true, but odd things have been happening at the vicarage lately that cannot be explained. Her orphaned cousin, Charlie, believes in mythical creatures and claims that faeries now inhabit the vicarage’s bluebell garden. The boy also claims the faerie king, Cadeyrn, has promised to make him a prince in his kingdom and teach crippled Charlie to walk again if he will cross into the Fae realm.
As the faerie king’s influence on the boy grows stronger, another threat emerges from the boy’s uncle—Douglas Hawke, the Earl of Eastbourne, who has come to wrench him from Julia’s guardianship. Julia is determined to fight both men, but as she and the boy begin to fall under the spell of the faerie king, Julia realizes that only her love for Douglas can save them.
But is Douglas capable of loving her, even at the cost of his own life?
264 pages, ebook
First published December 6, 2016
541 people are currently reading
456 people want to read
About the author
Meara Platt
119 books884 followersMeara Platt is happily married to her Russell Crowe look-alike husband, and they have two terrific children. She lives in one of the many great towns on Long Island, New York, and loves it, except for the traffic. She has traveled extensively, occasionally lectures and finds time to write. Her favorite place in all the world is England’s Lake District, which may not come as a surprise since many of her stories are set in that idyllic landscape, including her Romance Writers of America Golden Heart award winning story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
January 18, 2021
I usually don't read stories that are a bit darker, but I loved this. Finished it around 2.30 a.m. I couldn't put it down. Absolutely loved the characters, especially Charlie. I kept hoping that he was always going to be able to walk. This story kept me guessing throughout. I loved reading this most enjoyable story. 5☆
November 19, 2018
I do love paranormal story and historical romance so this one was a perfect mix without behind too out of sort.
It was very different from the series I came to know her, the Farthingales. It is as entertaining but with a darker and oppressive side, the universe the author has built is astonishing, I felt like I saw it in front of me.
Outside the main couple, the other characters are well described, and I loved or hated them, little Charlie was so perfectly outlined.
Julia is the perfect interpretation of a vicar’s girl but she is not at all a religious zealot, only a young woman who cares and will endure any sacrifice to help or save those she loves, she gives easily her trust but once betrayed she need time to forgive, she is human.
Douglas is her opposite, he doubt everyone but he will be challenged, Julia is so different from the woman who was portrayed to him, not the greedy woman who will use a child to gain money. His heart and his head will both fight as even he feels in his heart she is innocent, his brain needs proof.
They will have quite a bumpy road, having to trust another, enough to confide their deepest thoughts, and at the same time, they will have to fight for a future, their future.
Even without the humorous side of her other regency series, it was a very entertaining and captivating read.
It was very different from the series I came to know her, the Farthingales. It is as entertaining but with a darker and oppressive side, the universe the author has built is astonishing, I felt like I saw it in front of me.
Outside the main couple, the other characters are well described, and I loved or hated them, little Charlie was so perfectly outlined.
Julia is the perfect interpretation of a vicar’s girl but she is not at all a religious zealot, only a young woman who cares and will endure any sacrifice to help or save those she loves, she gives easily her trust but once betrayed she need time to forgive, she is human.
Douglas is her opposite, he doubt everyone but he will be challenged, Julia is so different from the woman who was portrayed to him, not the greedy woman who will use a child to gain money. His heart and his head will both fight as even he feels in his heart she is innocent, his brain needs proof.
They will have quite a bumpy road, having to trust another, enough to confide their deepest thoughts, and at the same time, they will have to fight for a future, their future.
Even without the humorous side of her other regency series, it was a very entertaining and captivating read.
December 18, 2016
Quite a twist from most Regencies I've read. It starts out with a child who is the son of a deceased Earl, in hiding with his cousin. His uncle comes searching for him and then BOOM! (Thank you Flula) fairies! Not expected at all and really unique. I think this is the only Regency Romance I've read quite like this, and I liked it. There was the typical misunderstandings because of not telling the truth, but the characters actually talked about them in a mature fashion rather than storming off and doing things they regretted. I always appreciate that. Also, the hero is respectful of the heroines' space in romantic encounters. Another plus. He is mistrustful, but given his life, it's hard to blame him. An enjoyable, different romance read.
April 5, 2018
Wow! This had me drawn into the story from the first page. I do like some light fantasy as times. The faeries make up a central background to the storyline, but their involvement in the action is limited.
At times emotional, at times amusing, with the feeling of foreboding in the background. Well-written from start to finish. Certainly re-read worthy.
At times emotional, at times amusing, with the feeling of foreboding in the background. Well-written from start to finish. Certainly re-read worthy.
April 4, 2019
Let me summarize this novel for you with a few brief exchanges that are repeated so many times I lost count.
Charlie: The fairie king exists. Julia: no he doesn't, silly boy. Charlie: yes, he does. Julia: No, he doesn't.
Douglas: Julia, you're a liar and I can't trust you. Julia: no, I'm not; you're the liar. Douglas: No I'm not. You are. Julia: No I'm not. You are.
Fairie King: The earl doesn't love you, Julia. You can't trust him. Julia: Yes, I can. You're the liar. King: No I'm not. He is. Julia: No he's not. You are.
Douglas: Charlie, you can't trust the Fairie King. He wants to harm you. Charlie: No he doesn't. He loves me. Douglas: No he doesn't. Charlie: Yes, he does.
Douglas: I don't love Lady Cynthia and I'm not going to marry her. Julia: Yes you are. Douglas: No I'm not. Julia: Yes you are. Don't lie to me.
I am not kidding you. This is how the ENTIRE novel reads. This back and forth dialogue is only interrupted with similar back and forth narration/ inner monologue about the same subjects.
I literally want to throw this book across the room. The fairie lore is weak and not well developed. At the end of the novel, I still have no idea what the stupid prophecy is all about or what roles the characters play in it. I want those hours of my life back.
Charlie: The fairie king exists. Julia: no he doesn't, silly boy. Charlie: yes, he does. Julia: No, he doesn't.
Douglas: Julia, you're a liar and I can't trust you. Julia: no, I'm not; you're the liar. Douglas: No I'm not. You are. Julia: No I'm not. You are.
Fairie King: The earl doesn't love you, Julia. You can't trust him. Julia: Yes, I can. You're the liar. King: No I'm not. He is. Julia: No he's not. You are.
Douglas: Charlie, you can't trust the Fairie King. He wants to harm you. Charlie: No he doesn't. He loves me. Douglas: No he doesn't. Charlie: Yes, he does.
Douglas: I don't love Lady Cynthia and I'm not going to marry her. Julia: Yes you are. Douglas: No I'm not. Julia: Yes you are. Don't lie to me.
I am not kidding you. This is how the ENTIRE novel reads. This back and forth dialogue is only interrupted with similar back and forth narration/ inner monologue about the same subjects.
I literally want to throw this book across the room. The fairie lore is weak and not well developed. At the end of the novel, I still have no idea what the stupid prophecy is all about or what roles the characters play in it. I want those hours of my life back.
October 20, 2022
Overall: 3.5 stars. A fun fantasy take on a Regency historical setting.
I liked, but didn't love, both the heroine Julia and the hero Douglas, but the supporting characters are not my favorite. The author writes out the "Cockney" dialect of one of the characters, and I find reading any written accent just painful. The child Charlie is a central plot point for the story and also super annoying: all the characters act as though he's adorable and precious, and even if it's not his fault he's possessed by evil fae spirits, he didn't engender any sympathy from me. He seemed to exist, like the kid in a horror movie, to be cute until he needed to be in danger and in need of saving from the adults.
The first 2/3 of this book were much better than the last (once everyone moves from the cottage in the woods, haunted by faeries, to the giant estate house, haunted by rude relatives, the mystery and danger of the story kinda flopped for me), but all the same, I had a fun time reading it. If you're a fan of faeries being creepy and evil, cozy cottages, a Regency historical setting, and swooping declarations of love, I think you'll have fun with this.
I liked, but didn't love, both the heroine Julia and the hero Douglas, but the supporting characters are not my favorite. The author writes out the "Cockney" dialect of one of the characters, and I find reading any written accent just painful. The child Charlie is a central plot point for the story and also super annoying: all the characters act as though he's adorable and precious, and even if it's not his fault he's possessed by evil fae spirits, he didn't engender any sympathy from me. He seemed to exist, like the kid in a horror movie, to be cute until he needed to be in danger and in need of saving from the adults.
The first 2/3 of this book were much better than the last (once everyone moves from the cottage in the woods, haunted by faeries, to the giant estate house, haunted by rude relatives, the mystery and danger of the story kinda flopped for me), but all the same, I had a fun time reading it. If you're a fan of faeries being creepy and evil, cozy cottages, a Regency historical setting, and swooping declarations of love, I think you'll have fun with this.
December 27, 2019
Dark paranormal fantasy. Excellent!
June 2, 2017
Careful With Bluebells
Douglas and Julia's story was good. I unfortunately started reading this Series out of order. Douglas has gone to retrieve his nephew. He believes the woman who has him has been extorting his family. He is determined to take Charlie away from her.
Julia has raised Charlie since his birth. Her cousin died giving birth to him and his father never cared nor did his family about this child.
Now his uncle has arrived and is bound and determined to take him away from her.
There are paranormal dealings around Charlie. He has been very sick for years and he also has a vivid imagination.
Douglas and Julia's story was good. I unfortunately started reading this Series out of order. Douglas has gone to retrieve his nephew. He believes the woman who has him has been extorting his family. He is determined to take Charlie away from her.
Julia has raised Charlie since his birth. Her cousin died giving birth to him and his father never cared nor did his family about this child.
Now his uncle has arrived and is bound and determined to take him away from her.
There are paranormal dealings around Charlie. He has been very sick for years and he also has a vivid imagination.
April 3, 2017
A fantasy romance with a historical setting, “Garden of Shadows” is a wild ride of magic, English nobility, and secrets!
Read full review in the 2017 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2017 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 4, 2021
Faeries and Mythical creatures
Garden of Shadows
Dark Gardens #1
Meara Platt
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Julia doesn't believe in faeries or magic. She doesn't even believe in dreams coming true. She's actually a very practical person who doesn't even judge others the way some might normally do, however there has been some odd things happening at the vicarage lately and not enough logical reasons to go with them. Her orphaned cousin, Charlie, believes enough for both of them though. Charlie believes in mythical creatures and fully believes that faeries now inhabit the bluebell garden outside. And more alarming the boy also claims that the faeries have a king who's name is Cadeyrn, and that this king has been making him all sorts of disturbing promises. King Caderyn has offered to make Charlie a prince in his kingdom and teach the crippled boy to walk again if he will cross into the Fae realm.
As time goes by and Julia sees the faerie kings influence growing stronger on Charlie, another threat emerges and this one is real. The boys Uncle, Douglas Hawke, the Earl of Eastbourne, has shown up wanting to wrench Charlie from Julia's guardianship. Julia is determined to fight both men, but as she and Charlie begin to fall under the spell of King Cadryn, Julia comes to the shocking conclusion that there may be only one thing that can them and that is her love for Douglas.
Maera Platt is absolutely fabulous. This book blew me away. I've read books from this author before, but I had no idea how she could add faeries and mythical creatures with historical romance and produce a book that I couldn't take my eyes off of. It had me from the moment I opened it until I put it down and even then I couldn't stop thinking about it. The storyline was wonderful and the characters were even better. The descriptions were so vivid it was like watching what I was reading because I could see it all so clearly in my minds eye. Ms. Platt you wrote a wonderfully descriptive book that I really enjoyed and I look forward to reading the other books in the series that I own.
Garden of Shadows
Dark Gardens #1
Meara Platt
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Julia doesn't believe in faeries or magic. She doesn't even believe in dreams coming true. She's actually a very practical person who doesn't even judge others the way some might normally do, however there has been some odd things happening at the vicarage lately and not enough logical reasons to go with them. Her orphaned cousin, Charlie, believes enough for both of them though. Charlie believes in mythical creatures and fully believes that faeries now inhabit the bluebell garden outside. And more alarming the boy also claims that the faeries have a king who's name is Cadeyrn, and that this king has been making him all sorts of disturbing promises. King Caderyn has offered to make Charlie a prince in his kingdom and teach the crippled boy to walk again if he will cross into the Fae realm.
As time goes by and Julia sees the faerie kings influence growing stronger on Charlie, another threat emerges and this one is real. The boys Uncle, Douglas Hawke, the Earl of Eastbourne, has shown up wanting to wrench Charlie from Julia's guardianship. Julia is determined to fight both men, but as she and Charlie begin to fall under the spell of King Cadryn, Julia comes to the shocking conclusion that there may be only one thing that can them and that is her love for Douglas.
Maera Platt is absolutely fabulous. This book blew me away. I've read books from this author before, but I had no idea how she could add faeries and mythical creatures with historical romance and produce a book that I couldn't take my eyes off of. It had me from the moment I opened it until I put it down and even then I couldn't stop thinking about it. The storyline was wonderful and the characters were even better. The descriptions were so vivid it was like watching what I was reading because I could see it all so clearly in my minds eye. Ms. Platt you wrote a wonderfully descriptive book that I really enjoyed and I look forward to reading the other books in the series that I own.
September 18, 2020
Regency romance meets fantasy fairyland in this unusual genre blend. For those who assume faeries to be cute, fun, friendly little beings, think again. This story features a dark struggle for survival between humanity and the faerie realm.
The late vicar's daughter, Julia Marsden, nurtures and protects her frail orphaned nephew, but his overwhelming belief in and fascination with a faerie kingdom in the vicarage bluebell garden worries Julia. The arrival of the boy's fraternal uncle, Douglas Hawke, who wants to assume guardianship, just exacerbates Julia's anxiety. As the faerie king, Cadeyrn, uses magic to create and influence events and people, Julia and Douglas realize they must work together to hold their nephew from crossing into the fae spirit world forever. What key do humans have that faeries need to save their existence? What exactly does the fae Draloch Prophecy mean?
I do not usually read fantasy, so this story stretched my imagination considerably. Fighting dark forces of an unseen world exhausted me emotionally as I read, so I had to take several breaks in order to finish the story. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the characters very much, and I wanted to like Cadeyrn, but just could not agree with his ends justify the means approach to survival. Action, suspense, and magic mix with love to sweep the plot along at a good pace. While I hesitate to label the theme as a battle between good and evil, that feeling does seem present at times in the story.
The author encouraged me to read this book knowing that I am not a fantasy reader. I can honestly say that she was right, and I thank you Meara Platt, because I did find the story exciting and enjoyable. So, I recommend this book to historical romance readers as well as fantasy readers who look for a little something different in their genres.
The late vicar's daughter, Julia Marsden, nurtures and protects her frail orphaned nephew, but his overwhelming belief in and fascination with a faerie kingdom in the vicarage bluebell garden worries Julia. The arrival of the boy's fraternal uncle, Douglas Hawke, who wants to assume guardianship, just exacerbates Julia's anxiety. As the faerie king, Cadeyrn, uses magic to create and influence events and people, Julia and Douglas realize they must work together to hold their nephew from crossing into the fae spirit world forever. What key do humans have that faeries need to save their existence? What exactly does the fae Draloch Prophecy mean?
I do not usually read fantasy, so this story stretched my imagination considerably. Fighting dark forces of an unseen world exhausted me emotionally as I read, so I had to take several breaks in order to finish the story. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the characters very much, and I wanted to like Cadeyrn, but just could not agree with his ends justify the means approach to survival. Action, suspense, and magic mix with love to sweep the plot along at a good pace. While I hesitate to label the theme as a battle between good and evil, that feeling does seem present at times in the story.
The author encouraged me to read this book knowing that I am not a fantasy reader. I can honestly say that she was right, and I thank you Meara Platt, because I did find the story exciting and enjoyable. So, I recommend this book to historical romance readers as well as fantasy readers who look for a little something different in their genres.
August 8, 2018
Paranormal romance is just not my reading choice but I have read all of Meara Platt's historical romances & loved them, so I thought I would give this a read. I really enjoyed it - the story was captivating & I couldn't put it down until I read the last word. Julia Marsden, daughter of the late Vicar of St. Lodore's Church, has raised her cousin, Charlie from the day he was born & orphaned by his mother's death in childbirth. Julia is a kind, loving, honest & dependable guardian to Charlie. Douglas Hawke, the Earl of Eastbourne (Uncle Douglas is a brother to Charlie's father who died before Charlie was born) comes to Julia's home. Douglas is stubborn, does not trust Julia, honorable but unwilling to budge from his pursuit to bring his nephew back to Eastbourne to become the next legal Earl. Julia knows Charlie has imaginary faeries, magic & dreams but she & Douglas do not believe in them until strange things start happening. Our heroine broke my heart more than once, Charlie was so sweet & you ached for how sick he was & prayed for a sudden recovery & Douglas was handsome, kind, loving & he just got better the farther you got into the story. I really enjoyed Homer, the Bow Street Runner who worked for Douglas as he was so kind to Charlie & Julia. To round the cast out we had the Faerie King, Cadeyrn who is unfeeling, evil but charming & handsome. I want a Blue Bell Garden like the one in the story(minus Caderyn)! The book has danger, suspense, drama, romance, love & Meara Platt's description of the faeries, gardens & Caderyn was so vivid I could see them! If you like paranormal romance, or if you don't, I highly recommend this historical romance book. I'm off to read Book 2, Garden of Light.
October 13, 2025
Regency romance with fantasy elements.
Julia is the orphaned daughter of a country vicar. She is the sole carer for her young cousin Charlie, who is in a wheelchair. We meet her as she prepares to welcome her father's replacement to the vicarage, hoping that he will keep her on (with Charlie) as housekeeper, as she has no other options.
Out of the blue, Douglas the Earl of Eastbourne arrives at her doorstep, wishing to take Charlie, his nephew away to live with him. Everyone believes that Charlie is the illegitimate son of Douglas' elder brother, the late Earl. But until now, Julia's attempts to contact the family for help had been ignored.
Douglas incorrectly thinks Julia is extorting money from his family to keep Charlie a secret. Julia thinks the Eastbourne's want nothing to do with Charlie, and so, the two are immediately at odds.
It becomes clear that Douglas cares for his nephew, and that Julia is honest and innocent of Douglas' charges.
Charlie's best interest becomes the main concern when he starts to speak of his friend Caderyn, King of the faeries, who speaks to him from the bluebell patch in the garden. Julia and Douglas become drawn into the ominous world of the fae, as it becomes increasingly clear that Caderyn is not a figment of their imagination, but is in fact an ominous presence who desires both Julia and Charlie to cross into his realm.
This was an interesting, slightly darker read, with Caderyn providing a bit of danger and keeping the story from being just another enemies-to-lovers romance.
The love scenes are descriptive and unusual because they are used as a means of breaking Caderyn's hold overJulia, rather than purely for romance. Not sure how I felt about that.
I've read book 2 in the past, but will re-read now in order.
Julia is the orphaned daughter of a country vicar. She is the sole carer for her young cousin Charlie, who is in a wheelchair. We meet her as she prepares to welcome her father's replacement to the vicarage, hoping that he will keep her on (with Charlie) as housekeeper, as she has no other options.
Out of the blue, Douglas the Earl of Eastbourne arrives at her doorstep, wishing to take Charlie, his nephew away to live with him. Everyone believes that Charlie is the illegitimate son of Douglas' elder brother, the late Earl. But until now, Julia's attempts to contact the family for help had been ignored.
Douglas incorrectly thinks Julia is extorting money from his family to keep Charlie a secret. Julia thinks the Eastbourne's want nothing to do with Charlie, and so, the two are immediately at odds.
It becomes clear that Douglas cares for his nephew, and that Julia is honest and innocent of Douglas' charges.
Charlie's best interest becomes the main concern when he starts to speak of his friend Caderyn, King of the faeries, who speaks to him from the bluebell patch in the garden. Julia and Douglas become drawn into the ominous world of the fae, as it becomes increasingly clear that Caderyn is not a figment of their imagination, but is in fact an ominous presence who desires both Julia and Charlie to cross into his realm.
This was an interesting, slightly darker read, with Caderyn providing a bit of danger and keeping the story from being just another enemies-to-lovers romance.
The love scenes are descriptive and unusual because they are used as a means of breaking Caderyn's hold overJulia, rather than purely for romance. Not sure how I felt about that.
I've read book 2 in the past, but will re-read now in order.
November 1, 2022
Generally, I'm not that into romance or anything paranormal, but I liked Garden of Shadows. It was exciting & suspenseful. I genuinely cared for the characters & worried for their safety, & couldn't wait to see how it ended. I think I will have to continue with the rest of the series.
Julia is the recently orphaned adult daughter of the vicar of a remote village in the Lake District of England. She has been caring for her young cousin Charlie, who was also orphaned as a baby. He has been confined to a wheelchair for most of his life. Expecting the new vicar, instead she is visited by Douglas Hawke, Charlie's uncle, whom she fears wants to take Charlie away from her. Charlie instantly warms to his uncle, & seems to know things he has know way of knowing. His explanation? The fae king that lives in the bluebells outside the vicarage told him. Douglas & Julia begin to fall for one another, but the fairy king's hold on both Charlie & Julia grows stronger, potentially endangering their lives, but Douglas is determined to fight for their lives, even at the risk of his own.
Julia is the recently orphaned adult daughter of the vicar of a remote village in the Lake District of England. She has been caring for her young cousin Charlie, who was also orphaned as a baby. He has been confined to a wheelchair for most of his life. Expecting the new vicar, instead she is visited by Douglas Hawke, Charlie's uncle, whom she fears wants to take Charlie away from her. Charlie instantly warms to his uncle, & seems to know things he has know way of knowing. His explanation? The fae king that lives in the bluebells outside the vicarage told him. Douglas & Julia begin to fall for one another, but the fairy king's hold on both Charlie & Julia grows stronger, potentially endangering their lives, but Douglas is determined to fight for their lives, even at the risk of his own.
July 2, 2021
Julia Marsden has looked after her nephew since her sister died giving birth to him. Unfortunately his father's family have ignored him, even after she told them how sick he is. Young Charlie has a gift for art and a very vivid imagination ( or is it just imagination?) Now her father the Vicar has also died, a new Vicar will need the only home she and Charlie have.
Douglas Hawke, the Earl of Eastbourne recently discovered a family secret and is going to claim his nephew no matter who stands in his way.
There is much more happening in the Vicarage garden than unseasonably blooming flowers. The magic is strong, and not all of it is as innocent as first appears.
This is a magical adventure that will prove the power of love. The characters are fabulous and will have you believing in Fairies. This is the first book in a series and I will definitely read the rest.
I loved it.
Douglas Hawke, the Earl of Eastbourne recently discovered a family secret and is going to claim his nephew no matter who stands in his way.
There is much more happening in the Vicarage garden than unseasonably blooming flowers. The magic is strong, and not all of it is as innocent as first appears.
This is a magical adventure that will prove the power of love. The characters are fabulous and will have you believing in Fairies. This is the first book in a series and I will definitely read the rest.
I loved it.
February 2, 2021
Captivating
This book was amazing! Between the magic and the battle for love you cannot deny yourself from turning the pages!
The author wrote this so well and captivated you by drawing you in like moth to a flame. From a young woman struggling to raise her orphan nephew and the tall warrior trying to mask his secrets but as well find the truth of the past. To the suprises between the magical realm to the world nobody really wants to leave when true love bring warmth.
It was a good tale, bring smiles to your face as well as keeping you on edge. Almost a thriller with the questions of what will happen next. Will Charlie ever know the truth, will the evil win or will they finally say they love eachother?
Definitely you got to read this!
I'm already ready for book two....this series is going to be bomb!
This book was amazing! Between the magic and the battle for love you cannot deny yourself from turning the pages!
The author wrote this so well and captivated you by drawing you in like moth to a flame. From a young woman struggling to raise her orphan nephew and the tall warrior trying to mask his secrets but as well find the truth of the past. To the suprises between the magical realm to the world nobody really wants to leave when true love bring warmth.
It was a good tale, bring smiles to your face as well as keeping you on edge. Almost a thriller with the questions of what will happen next. Will Charlie ever know the truth, will the evil win or will they finally say they love eachother?
Definitely you got to read this!
I'm already ready for book two....this series is going to be bomb!
January 4, 2018
Garden of Shadows ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️by Meara Platt
(Dark Gardens #1)
My usual genre is Historical Romance and this began as such but soon turned to something more mystical and quite enjoyable.
Julia Marsden, daughter of the late vicar living in the village of Borrowdale, has been caring for her orphaned cousins child Charles since he was a baby.
Ms Platt has weaved a tale of magical bluebells and faerie king Cadeyrn. Enter Douglas the Earl of Eastbourne to retrieve his so called illegitimate nephew from Julia. Douglas has arrived in Borrowdale with the distinct impression Julia has been using Charles as a source of money from his family.
This story follows with many unseen twists rafted by Ms Platt which prove very entertaining.
(Dark Gardens #1)
My usual genre is Historical Romance and this began as such but soon turned to something more mystical and quite enjoyable.
Julia Marsden, daughter of the late vicar living in the village of Borrowdale, has been caring for her orphaned cousins child Charles since he was a baby.
Ms Platt has weaved a tale of magical bluebells and faerie king Cadeyrn. Enter Douglas the Earl of Eastbourne to retrieve his so called illegitimate nephew from Julia. Douglas has arrived in Borrowdale with the distinct impression Julia has been using Charles as a source of money from his family.
This story follows with many unseen twists rafted by Ms Platt which prove very entertaining.
May 3, 2018
Lies, betrayal, love with a twist of a fantastical world, lying closely by in a garden of bluebells.
The book begins as a normal historical regency, but it pulls you into its world and when you start learning all kinds of truths a bit over halfway in, you will have a hard time putting this book down. This book combines both my love of historicals with my love of fantasy, and marries the two genres perfectly. An original story that slowly but surely grabbed on and didn’t let go easily, weaving its spell over me as almost as easily as King Cadeyrn seduced Charlie and Julia. The book takes some terrific twists to keep the reader on their toes. This is a nice start to a series, and I’m looking forward to book two.
Reviewed by Cyrene
4 1/2 Stars
The book begins as a normal historical regency, but it pulls you into its world and when you start learning all kinds of truths a bit over halfway in, you will have a hard time putting this book down. This book combines both my love of historicals with my love of fantasy, and marries the two genres perfectly. An original story that slowly but surely grabbed on and didn’t let go easily, weaving its spell over me as almost as easily as King Cadeyrn seduced Charlie and Julia. The book takes some terrific twists to keep the reader on their toes. This is a nice start to a series, and I’m looking forward to book two.
Reviewed by Cyrene
4 1/2 Stars
January 12, 2018
Outstanding
The mortal world and the fairy world clash as the fairy king attempts to steal a mortal woman to be his queen as demanded by prophecy to save his kingdom along with the mortal world. Whew. A lot to do in one book which includes a mortal earl looking for his lost young male cousin and finds a challenging HEA with the cousin’s guardian. Another whew. Totally absorbing and not confusing and great writing. It all wove together amazingly enough. Loved it. I am off to read the next book in the series.
The mortal world and the fairy world clash as the fairy king attempts to steal a mortal woman to be his queen as demanded by prophecy to save his kingdom along with the mortal world. Whew. A lot to do in one book which includes a mortal earl looking for his lost young male cousin and finds a challenging HEA with the cousin’s guardian. Another whew. Totally absorbing and not confusing and great writing. It all wove together amazingly enough. Loved it. I am off to read the next book in the series.
November 11, 2025
intriguing, eloquently written
This is a slow burn, gothic style mystery, with morally gray fae, a young boy and his cousin living alone in a vicarage after her father has passed. Charlie is physically weak but joyful and artistically talented. Julia has raised him since birth believing his father’s family wanted nothing to do with him. His uncle Douglas shows up and Julia fears he will take Charlie away. Charlie has an imaginary friend who is king of the fairies. This is an engaging tale written in a charming style.
This is a slow burn, gothic style mystery, with morally gray fae, a young boy and his cousin living alone in a vicarage after her father has passed. Charlie is physically weak but joyful and artistically talented. Julia has raised him since birth believing his father’s family wanted nothing to do with him. His uncle Douglas shows up and Julia fears he will take Charlie away. Charlie has an imaginary friend who is king of the fairies. This is an engaging tale written in a charming style.
October 19, 2018
This book isn't your usual historical romance. It contains a paranormal element in the form of Fae. I highly recommend "Garden of Shadows." I loved the story and plan to read more books by Meara Platt including the second book in the Dark Gardens Series, "Garden of Light." Julia Marsden and Douglas Hawke, the Earl of Eastbourne have the wrong impression about each other's character. Secrets that have been buried for years, the shared love of a little boy, and a dangerous faerie king, combine to make a unique story. A must read!
January 4, 2020
interesting
Normally I do not read books that have magic, fae, and other unwieldy creatures. I've passed up this book many times. I loved the characters and the story was interesting. It took a great imagination and a talented author to come up with such a book. As I said, it is not normally what I would read, but the Dark Garden Series has caught my attention and I will read the series. Definitely an intriguing tale.
Normally I do not read books that have magic, fae, and other unwieldy creatures. I've passed up this book many times. I loved the characters and the story was interesting. It took a great imagination and a talented author to come up with such a book. As I said, it is not normally what I would read, but the Dark Garden Series has caught my attention and I will read the series. Definitely an intriguing tale.
May 31, 2021
Liked the characters, but problems with pacing
I wanted more plot than Regency Romance, but felt that the pacing and characters were better than in other books. I find the “lovemaking to save her life” a ludicrous trope.
I did like the characters, which is why I gave 4 stars, not 3. I’m pretty generous with stars, so when I take one away, it means I felt there were significant problems that were impossible to ignore.
I wanted more plot than Regency Romance, but felt that the pacing and characters were better than in other books. I find the “lovemaking to save her life” a ludicrous trope.
I did like the characters, which is why I gave 4 stars, not 3. I’m pretty generous with stars, so when I take one away, it means I felt there were significant problems that were impossible to ignore.
January 3, 2018
paranormal historical romance set in England. fae/faire folk, non believing male lead, "sick" child, and caring female lead who cares for the child.
i had hope for more detail into the actions of the parent (male lead's mother) and the consequences of it. seemed as if it was written in as an afterthought.
i had hope for more detail into the actions of the parent (male lead's mother) and the consequences of it. seemed as if it was written in as an afterthought.
February 25, 2019
Oh wow!!! Loved it really,
I had read you other books but now I'm the order you wrote them, so I read this one last & I was shocked of the 👑. I really love the story, the drama and the ending. Love concord for them. I actually cried but was happy at the end!!!!!!!😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
I had read you other books but now I'm the order you wrote them, so I read this one last & I was shocked of the 👑. I really love the story, the drama and the ending. Love concord for them. I actually cried but was happy at the end!!!!!!!😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
November 4, 2019
Garden of Shadows
I usually enjoy Meara Platt's historical romances, particularly those set in England during Prinny's days of power. I was not aware of her paranormal romances, but I really enjoyed this tale. The dark warrior Prince was fascinating. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
I usually enjoy Meara Platt's historical romances, particularly those set in England during Prinny's days of power. I was not aware of her paranormal romances, but I really enjoyed this tale. The dark warrior Prince was fascinating. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
June 9, 2020
Unusual twist on a Victorian romance
I was all settled, expecting another pleasantly sweet Victorian romance, damsel in distress rescued by a hot man with a title... when - BAM! Super unexpected and unlikely plot twist to include the Fae and a hidden world with a thousand year old conflict all of a sudden starts to unfold. Good read! Looking forward to the next book!
I was all settled, expecting another pleasantly sweet Victorian romance, damsel in distress rescued by a hot man with a title... when - BAM! Super unexpected and unlikely plot twist to include the Fae and a hidden world with a thousand year old conflict all of a sudden starts to unfold. Good read! Looking forward to the next book!
April 3, 2021
Romantic Fantasy
I’m not a writer so not sure what to say, and I never read what the book is about because spoilers! I liked the book a lot. Fairies are intriguing, and scary! I have only read the first and the first chapter in book 2. Was surprised we seem to be done with the heroine from the first book. I’d love to keep following her but we will see.
I’m not a writer so not sure what to say, and I never read what the book is about because spoilers! I liked the book a lot. Fairies are intriguing, and scary! I have only read the first and the first chapter in book 2. Was surprised we seem to be done with the heroine from the first book. I’d love to keep following her but we will see.
April 11, 2021
It took a bit for the different story strands to cone together
The secrets, untruths and trust issues was a tangled web while also hinting at puzzle pieces for this series. Had this reader intrigued, reading in small segments to try and grasp what was happening and also wanting yell at characters actions
The secrets, untruths and trust issues was a tangled web while also hinting at puzzle pieces for this series. Had this reader intrigued, reading in small segments to try and grasp what was happening and also wanting yell at characters actions
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2021
The FAE king chases a love belonging to Hawke
steamy romance; lovers before marriage; Douglas Hawke goes to claim Charlie, his nephew, from Julia Marsden, a vicar's daughter. They are embroided in a FAE prophecy that is not resolved in the story. Douglas gains a true love in Julia who returns his love. Charlie gets his rightful place, too.
steamy romance; lovers before marriage; Douglas Hawke goes to claim Charlie, his nephew, from Julia Marsden, a vicar's daughter. They are embroided in a FAE prophecy that is not resolved in the story. Douglas gains a true love in Julia who returns his love. Charlie gets his rightful place, too.
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