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The Midsummer Garden
Travelling between lush gardens in France, windswept coastlines of Tasmania, to Tuscan hillsides and beyond, The Midsummer Garden lures the reader on an unforgettable culinary and botanical journey.
1487 Artemisia is young to be in charge of the kitchens at Chateau de Boschaud but, having been taught the herbalists' lore, her knowledge of how food can delight the senses is unsurpassed. All of her concentration and flair is needed as she oversees the final preparations for the sumptuous wedding feast of Lord Boschaud and his bride while concealing her own secret dream. For after the celebrations are over, she dares to believe that her future lies outside the chateau. But who will she trust?
2014 Pip Arnet is an expert in predicting threats to healthy ecosystems. Trouble is, she doesn't seem to recognise these signs in her own life. What Pip holds dearest right now is her potential to make a real difference in the marine biology of her beloved Tasmanian coastline. She'd thought that her fiance Jack understood this, believed that he knew she couldn't make any plans until her studies were complete. But lately, since she's finally moved in with him, Jack appears to have forgotten everything they'd discussed.
When a gift of several dusty, beautiful old copper pots arrives in Pip's kitchen, the two stories come together in a rich and sensuous celebration of family and love, passion and sacrifice.
1487 Artemisia is young to be in charge of the kitchens at Chateau de Boschaud but, having been taught the herbalists' lore, her knowledge of how food can delight the senses is unsurpassed. All of her concentration and flair is needed as she oversees the final preparations for the sumptuous wedding feast of Lord Boschaud and his bride while concealing her own secret dream. For after the celebrations are over, she dares to believe that her future lies outside the chateau. But who will she trust?
2014 Pip Arnet is an expert in predicting threats to healthy ecosystems. Trouble is, she doesn't seem to recognise these signs in her own life. What Pip holds dearest right now is her potential to make a real difference in the marine biology of her beloved Tasmanian coastline. She'd thought that her fiance Jack understood this, believed that he knew she couldn't make any plans until her studies were complete. But lately, since she's finally moved in with him, Jack appears to have forgotten everything they'd discussed.
When a gift of several dusty, beautiful old copper pots arrives in Pip's kitchen, the two stories come together in a rich and sensuous celebration of family and love, passion and sacrifice.
400 pages, Paperback
First published March 29, 2017
37 people are currently reading
1007 people want to read
About the author
Kirsty Manning
10 books699 followersKirsty Manning grew up in northern New South Wales. She has degrees in literature and communications and worked as an editor and publishing manager in book publishing for over a decade. A country girl with wanderlust, her travels and studies have taken her through most of Europe, the east and west coasts of the United States and pockets of Asia. Kirsty’s journalism specialising in lifestyle and travel regularly appear in magazines, newspapers and online.
With husband Alex Wilcox, Kirsty is a partner in the award-winning Melbourne wine bar Bellota, and the Prince Wine Store in Sydney and Melbourne.
With husband Alex Wilcox, Kirsty is a partner in the award-winning Melbourne wine bar Bellota, and the Prince Wine Store in Sydney and Melbourne.
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July 29, 2017
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My favourite front cover book design of the year is without a doubt is going to be awarded to The Midsummer Garden. The natural beauty of this cover, the perfect combination of colours, along with luscious plants and flowers that adorn it makes the cover a sure-fire winner for me. Cover design love aside, inside the cover pages of this novel lies a truly magical story. The Midsummer Garden takes the reader on an unforgettable adventure into the natural and botanical world. This debut novel gracefully intertwines the lives and loves of two women who live 500 years apart.
In the year 2014, Tasmanian resident Pip is undertaking the last crucial elements to attain her PhD in marine biology. Pip is a busy young woman, who juggles many hats. Along with her demanding research, Pip is in the throes of planning her upcoming wedding, while balancing part-time work in a local upmarket restaurant. When Pip and her fiancé Jack receive a set of clay pots as an engagement present, they find an old rolled up piece of parchment hidden inside the pots. On closer inspection, they discover that the parchment contains an inscription in French that appears to reference a list of foods. Pip is naturally very intrigued by this treasure and sets about trying to find out more about the origins of this relic. Pip learns the artefact has been passed down from generation to generation and it originally hails from a château in France. The recipe parchment from the château is the link that binds Pip in the present day, to an extraordinary young woman who once lived at the château in the 1400’s. Artemisia is this remarkable young woman. Artemisia is a loner when she comes to the château and is placed under the tutelage of the abbot of the château. The abbot takes Artemisia under his wing, where she flourishes in the culinary arts. Artemisia also becomes an expert herbalist. Eventually, Artemisia’s talents secure her the job of planning a magnificent banquet for the nuptials of the Lord and Lady of Chateau de Boschaud. Meanwhile, Artemisia dreams of leaving the kitchens of the château behind, in search of her true love. The Midsummer Garden represents the convergence of two romantic stories and the passions, as well as the sacrifices involved in the pursuit of personal goals.
I am very much enamoured by the debut novel by Kirsty Manning. It surprises me that The Midsummer Garden was written by a first time author. I got a sense from the very opening that the writing was confident, refined and brimming with lyrical beauty. Apart from my obvious appreciation of the quality of Manning’s writing, I was also taken with the whole concept of this novel. I have a strong interest in multi time frame books, they are my favourite style of novel and The Midsummer Garden is an example of a dual time frame novel that works well. The difficulty dual time frame narratives often suffer from if they are not done very well, is the tendency for one time frame narrative to emerge as the stronger of the two. I assure you, this is not the case in The Midsummer Garden, my interest level was spread evenly between both story lines.
Manning’s ability in this novel to issue the reader with characters we grow to care about is seamless. The characterisation of her female lead, Pip in the 2014 narrative, is simply superb. There is so much life to Pip, thanks to Manning’s writing. I loved all Pip’s idiosyncrasies and the interactions she had with her family and colleagues in the novel, she comes across as a person I could easily like in real life. Pip’s interactions with Jack are where I found my only frustrations with The Midsummer Garden. It seemed like this couple were going in circles so many times over and I began to wonder, despite their passionate reunions, whether or not their relationship was truly worth fighting for! To me, it seemed like Pip and Jack were better off without one another! Despite my frustrations with this present day relationship, I adored the 500 year old love story between Artemisia and the merchant, Andreas. There was a measured amount of depth and feeling to this relationship that transferred to the page easily. I was utterly convinced and invested in this love story, it was a romance full of good old-fashioned heart. I loved the use of letters and the bittersweet stolen moments this couple experiences along the way. Only the inclusion of a terrible villain, which sends complications in the way of this couple, is what destroyed the true beauty of this relationship. The romance between Andreas and Artemisia was an emotionally stirring read that left me bereft by the close of the book.
Setting wise, The Midsummer Garden is a real treat for those who love to travel. The book sprawls across a number of stunning world destinations, from the coastal beauty of Tasmania, Pip’s home, through to Artemisia’s abode in the Chateau de Boschaud. Each of these locations are beautifully realised. Kirsty Manning has a great descriptive tone and an ability to convey a strong sense of place to her readers. Readers will delight in the great locations involved in the unravelling of this romantic novel, from Paris, to Spain and Tuscany.
There are so many wonderful layers to discover in The Midsummer Garden. Whilst the main narrative theme is focussed on love and self actualisation, there are many other offshoots to the narrative. Food plays a significant role in the book, resulting in an absolute feast for the senses. At many times I had to stop myself salivating over the food scenes described in the novel! It is clear that Manning has a passion for this area, which feeds into her narrative. Likewise, the focus on the value of herbs in both cooking and the medicinal properties they contain is explored well. It worked to raise my awareness of the importance of herbs. I must highlight the botanical aspects of The Midsummer Garden, which is a feast for the eyes. My senses were fully ignited while I was reading many of the beautiful landscape and gardening based scenes that pop up during the progression of The Midsummer Garden. The scent descriptors and visuals I received from these sections of the novel were sublime.
In straightforward terms, I absolutely loved The Midsummer Garden. The dual time frames, strong female leads, the picturesque locales, the historical grounding and rich food references sold this reader. If you haven’t already had the fortune of coming across The Midsummer Garden, then I hope this glowing review has convinced you to seek it out to read. I am in complete awe of Kirsty Manning’s writing and I am now eagerly awaiting her next published piece of work.
My favourite front cover book design of the year is without a doubt is going to be awarded to The Midsummer Garden. The natural beauty of this cover, the perfect combination of colours, along with luscious plants and flowers that adorn it makes the cover a sure-fire winner for me. Cover design love aside, inside the cover pages of this novel lies a truly magical story. The Midsummer Garden takes the reader on an unforgettable adventure into the natural and botanical world. This debut novel gracefully intertwines the lives and loves of two women who live 500 years apart.
In the year 2014, Tasmanian resident Pip is undertaking the last crucial elements to attain her PhD in marine biology. Pip is a busy young woman, who juggles many hats. Along with her demanding research, Pip is in the throes of planning her upcoming wedding, while balancing part-time work in a local upmarket restaurant. When Pip and her fiancé Jack receive a set of clay pots as an engagement present, they find an old rolled up piece of parchment hidden inside the pots. On closer inspection, they discover that the parchment contains an inscription in French that appears to reference a list of foods. Pip is naturally very intrigued by this treasure and sets about trying to find out more about the origins of this relic. Pip learns the artefact has been passed down from generation to generation and it originally hails from a château in France. The recipe parchment from the château is the link that binds Pip in the present day, to an extraordinary young woman who once lived at the château in the 1400’s. Artemisia is this remarkable young woman. Artemisia is a loner when she comes to the château and is placed under the tutelage of the abbot of the château. The abbot takes Artemisia under his wing, where she flourishes in the culinary arts. Artemisia also becomes an expert herbalist. Eventually, Artemisia’s talents secure her the job of planning a magnificent banquet for the nuptials of the Lord and Lady of Chateau de Boschaud. Meanwhile, Artemisia dreams of leaving the kitchens of the château behind, in search of her true love. The Midsummer Garden represents the convergence of two romantic stories and the passions, as well as the sacrifices involved in the pursuit of personal goals.
I am very much enamoured by the debut novel by Kirsty Manning. It surprises me that The Midsummer Garden was written by a first time author. I got a sense from the very opening that the writing was confident, refined and brimming with lyrical beauty. Apart from my obvious appreciation of the quality of Manning’s writing, I was also taken with the whole concept of this novel. I have a strong interest in multi time frame books, they are my favourite style of novel and The Midsummer Garden is an example of a dual time frame novel that works well. The difficulty dual time frame narratives often suffer from if they are not done very well, is the tendency for one time frame narrative to emerge as the stronger of the two. I assure you, this is not the case in The Midsummer Garden, my interest level was spread evenly between both story lines.
Manning’s ability in this novel to issue the reader with characters we grow to care about is seamless. The characterisation of her female lead, Pip in the 2014 narrative, is simply superb. There is so much life to Pip, thanks to Manning’s writing. I loved all Pip’s idiosyncrasies and the interactions she had with her family and colleagues in the novel, she comes across as a person I could easily like in real life. Pip’s interactions with Jack are where I found my only frustrations with The Midsummer Garden. It seemed like this couple were going in circles so many times over and I began to wonder, despite their passionate reunions, whether or not their relationship was truly worth fighting for! To me, it seemed like Pip and Jack were better off without one another! Despite my frustrations with this present day relationship, I adored the 500 year old love story between Artemisia and the merchant, Andreas. There was a measured amount of depth and feeling to this relationship that transferred to the page easily. I was utterly convinced and invested in this love story, it was a romance full of good old-fashioned heart. I loved the use of letters and the bittersweet stolen moments this couple experiences along the way. Only the inclusion of a terrible villain, which sends complications in the way of this couple, is what destroyed the true beauty of this relationship. The romance between Andreas and Artemisia was an emotionally stirring read that left me bereft by the close of the book.
Setting wise, The Midsummer Garden is a real treat for those who love to travel. The book sprawls across a number of stunning world destinations, from the coastal beauty of Tasmania, Pip’s home, through to Artemisia’s abode in the Chateau de Boschaud. Each of these locations are beautifully realised. Kirsty Manning has a great descriptive tone and an ability to convey a strong sense of place to her readers. Readers will delight in the great locations involved in the unravelling of this romantic novel, from Paris, to Spain and Tuscany.
There are so many wonderful layers to discover in The Midsummer Garden. Whilst the main narrative theme is focussed on love and self actualisation, there are many other offshoots to the narrative. Food plays a significant role in the book, resulting in an absolute feast for the senses. At many times I had to stop myself salivating over the food scenes described in the novel! It is clear that Manning has a passion for this area, which feeds into her narrative. Likewise, the focus on the value of herbs in both cooking and the medicinal properties they contain is explored well. It worked to raise my awareness of the importance of herbs. I must highlight the botanical aspects of The Midsummer Garden, which is a feast for the eyes. My senses were fully ignited while I was reading many of the beautiful landscape and gardening based scenes that pop up during the progression of The Midsummer Garden. The scent descriptors and visuals I received from these sections of the novel were sublime.
In straightforward terms, I absolutely loved The Midsummer Garden. The dual time frames, strong female leads, the picturesque locales, the historical grounding and rich food references sold this reader. If you haven’t already had the fortune of coming across The Midsummer Garden, then I hope this glowing review has convinced you to seek it out to read. I am in complete awe of Kirsty Manning’s writing and I am now eagerly awaiting her next published piece of work.
February 7, 2017
The Midsummer Garden is an evocative, lyrical tale of the search for identity by two unforgettable women, separated by history. It's a journey of passion through food, the natural world - and love - towards personal fulfilment. Manning displays her knowledge of gardening, ancient herbs and food as the two story lines intersect and move towards their powerful conclusion. At times I felt I could almost smell the herbs and taste the food as I turned the pages. A fictional Eat Pray Love that all lovers of food and wine will devour.
May 18, 2022
What a gastronomical delight this book was, I never imagined the herbs and spices and the combinations that two woman five hundred years apart could create and meeting Artemisia and Pip was just wonderful, can they find love? Come along to a Chateau in France in 1487 and Tasmania 2014 and discover their journey.
In 2014 Pip Arnet is working on her marine biology PHD she has just become engaged to the love of her life Jack and things are deem to be good, but the pressure is on, Jack seems to want something different to Pip and she is finding it hard at the moment. They have been gifted a set of old copper pots for an engagement present and while putting them away Pip finds an rolled up parchment and on looking closer she finds that it is some sort of list of foods and written in French, Pip is determined to find out where they come from
1487 Artemisia is the cook at Chateau de Boschaud, she is young to hold this position but nobody cooks like Artemisia her recipes are the best she grows her own herbs and vegetables in the best walled garden, she is just finishing the final touches on the wedding feast for Lord de Boschaud, but she is also planning for her future this day with the spicier Andreas, will Artemisia find her happiness?
This is a beautifully written story, two woman, two eras, two continents five hundred years apart, both strong and such fabulous cooks and creators of fabulous meals, but we also have beautiful love stories there were smiles and tears, it is filled with heartwarming and heart wrenching emotions. I loved getting to know both of these heroines and the heroes who loved them, a must read story one that I would highly recommend.
In 2014 Pip Arnet is working on her marine biology PHD she has just become engaged to the love of her life Jack and things are deem to be good, but the pressure is on, Jack seems to want something different to Pip and she is finding it hard at the moment. They have been gifted a set of old copper pots for an engagement present and while putting them away Pip finds an rolled up parchment and on looking closer she finds that it is some sort of list of foods and written in French, Pip is determined to find out where they come from
1487 Artemisia is the cook at Chateau de Boschaud, she is young to hold this position but nobody cooks like Artemisia her recipes are the best she grows her own herbs and vegetables in the best walled garden, she is just finishing the final touches on the wedding feast for Lord de Boschaud, but she is also planning for her future this day with the spicier Andreas, will Artemisia find her happiness?
This is a beautifully written story, two woman, two eras, two continents five hundred years apart, both strong and such fabulous cooks and creators of fabulous meals, but we also have beautiful love stories there were smiles and tears, it is filled with heartwarming and heart wrenching emotions. I loved getting to know both of these heroines and the heroes who loved them, a must read story one that I would highly recommend.
August 14, 2020
This was an easy read, an historical romance mystery in 1487 at a french chateau and a modern romance set mostly in Tasmania plus Spain, italy and France. I found the modern story weaker probably because I didn’t like the characters. Jack just didn’t seem worth it. This part is overwritten really, I could’ve done without all the later chapters. The link between the two stories is also pretty weak. Some medieval French pots end up in Tasmania and nobody had opened up and found the parchment recipes/herbal until Pip was given them? The medieval story was far more interesting, and lacked closure for me. What happened to the abbot? Did he get what he deserved in the end?
The book is well researched and detailed particularly in the food including recipes and menus, multiple herb uses and mushrooms types and uses.
An enjoyable light read but I preferred her more recent book,The Lost Jewels.
The book is well researched and detailed particularly in the food including recipes and menus, multiple herb uses and mushrooms types and uses.
An enjoyable light read but I preferred her more recent book,The Lost Jewels.
December 15, 2017
I was very lucky to win this book in a giveaway by Allen and Unwin! Besides the fact I was able to score a free book, I was grateful to be given the opportunity to read The Midsummer Garden by Kirsty Manning. This is her debut book and my oh my what a book!
I am going to be honest here in which if I never won this book I do not think I would have ever read/purchased this book. The reason is that I am so used to reading books in genres I like; I often ignore literature/fiction books. This is a fantastic combination of a beautiful written Australian story mixed with historical fiction.
In this book we follow two main female characters Pip Arnet who resides in 2014, in Tasmania Australia and the second is Artemisia in France 1487. These two incredible women are separated by time but their love for food, nature (gardening, herbs etc), their journey towards love, reaching their goals and facing restrictions/hardships is what connects them. I was able to connect with both of these female characters, I felt for them, I cheered for them and the love of food in this book made me constantly hungry! What I loved was the input of nature, different herbs usage (from what is popular in 2014 and what was in 1487), the description of the landscape, food (yes I love food) and both of the stories connected so well together.
Kirsty Manning is fantastic Australian Author (which was one of my goals to read more Aussie authors) and I cannot wait to see what else she publishes!
I am going to be honest here in which if I never won this book I do not think I would have ever read/purchased this book. The reason is that I am so used to reading books in genres I like; I often ignore literature/fiction books. This is a fantastic combination of a beautiful written Australian story mixed with historical fiction.
In this book we follow two main female characters Pip Arnet who resides in 2014, in Tasmania Australia and the second is Artemisia in France 1487. These two incredible women are separated by time but their love for food, nature (gardening, herbs etc), their journey towards love, reaching their goals and facing restrictions/hardships is what connects them. I was able to connect with both of these female characters, I felt for them, I cheered for them and the love of food in this book made me constantly hungry! What I loved was the input of nature, different herbs usage (from what is popular in 2014 and what was in 1487), the description of the landscape, food (yes I love food) and both of the stories connected so well together.
Kirsty Manning is fantastic Australian Author (which was one of my goals to read more Aussie authors) and I cannot wait to see what else she publishes!
March 30, 2017
The Midsummer Garden by Kirsty Manning is a magical botanical journey into the past to Chateau de Boschaud set in the middle ages.
Treasures are found in copper pots from a chateau in medieval France which set Pip, on an epic journey of discovery.
A family gift becomes a connection to Pip's past and present days involving trips to the French Chateau to find out their origin.
I was enticed by the scents of the herbs, spices and wildflowers in the gardens which carried me through the book.
I can't possibly begin to describe everything in this book as it's Kirsty Manning, the writer who can only do this so well.
It's a culinary and botanical experience.
What is the connection between Artemisia in medieval France and Pip in modern day Tasmania?
Read on and find out...
I really loved this novel, The Midsummer Garden by Kirsty Manning.
It was an absolute delight!
Thank you so much to the writer, Kirsty Manning for this beautiful book and also to the publishers, Allen and Unwin for this fantastic prize.
Treasures are found in copper pots from a chateau in medieval France which set Pip, on an epic journey of discovery.
A family gift becomes a connection to Pip's past and present days involving trips to the French Chateau to find out their origin.
I was enticed by the scents of the herbs, spices and wildflowers in the gardens which carried me through the book.
I can't possibly begin to describe everything in this book as it's Kirsty Manning, the writer who can only do this so well.
It's a culinary and botanical experience.
What is the connection between Artemisia in medieval France and Pip in modern day Tasmania?
Read on and find out...
I really loved this novel, The Midsummer Garden by Kirsty Manning.
It was an absolute delight!
Thank you so much to the writer, Kirsty Manning for this beautiful book and also to the publishers, Allen and Unwin for this fantastic prize.
May 26, 2017
I had such high expectations for this book so in the end it let me down. It took me ages to read because I couldn't get "into it". I didn't warm to or understand the characters, and I think the story didn't go where I wanted to go. Personally I think the author had a lovely idea and was going after an already established audience (Kate Morton readers for example) but the writing was almost too "try hard" for me. I like authors who evoke something and it's enough for my imagination to go for a ride. I enjoy being taken to another place and time. But this one didn't work for me. Here I felt things were explained that didn't need to be. And I wasn't enjoying the past story (I think I always knew where it was going to end up) so she lost me there... and I didn't like the present story at all because I didn't warm to or understand the central character. I'm not one for writing a totally negative review because I see positivity in everything. In this case we have a local author (yeah support local authors!!!) with a book that is beautifully packaged (that cover is absolutely glorious) and it's sold and distributed here by one of the best teams around (Allen & Unwin). I think a lot of readers will enjoy the story. In this case, however, I just wasn't one of them....
January 23, 2018
Kirsty Manning is an Australian journalist and author who has previously co-authored a book on gardens and cooking called We Love Food. These two passions are apparent on every page of her debut novel, The Midsummer Garden.
The novel travels back and forth in time between the stories of Pip, an Australian doctoral student in 2014, and Artemisia, a cook at the Chateau de Boschaud in 1487. The two are linked by the discovery of a small book of hand-written recipes hidden within a set of antique French copper pots given to Pip as a wedding gift. Artemisia is planning to marry also, although she must keep her romance a secret from the cruel Abbot Roald who would never give his permission. Pip’s marriage plans are also in danger of falling apart, as her studies into Tasmanian marine life do not seem as important to her fiancé Jack as they are to her.
As both women’s hopes and dreams unravel, the story travels to Spain and then to Italy as Pip searches for her true calling. This is a rich, sensual, and evocative novel, fragrant with the smell of crushed herbs and flowers, and haunted by the high cost that women must sometimes pay to find both love and their vocation.
The novel travels back and forth in time between the stories of Pip, an Australian doctoral student in 2014, and Artemisia, a cook at the Chateau de Boschaud in 1487. The two are linked by the discovery of a small book of hand-written recipes hidden within a set of antique French copper pots given to Pip as a wedding gift. Artemisia is planning to marry also, although she must keep her romance a secret from the cruel Abbot Roald who would never give his permission. Pip’s marriage plans are also in danger of falling apart, as her studies into Tasmanian marine life do not seem as important to her fiancé Jack as they are to her.
As both women’s hopes and dreams unravel, the story travels to Spain and then to Italy as Pip searches for her true calling. This is a rich, sensual, and evocative novel, fragrant with the smell of crushed herbs and flowers, and haunted by the high cost that women must sometimes pay to find both love and their vocation.
October 29, 2017
I feel a little bad being negative amongst all the positive reviews, but I found this book quite annoying. The conceit was interesting but I found it all contrived. The medieval story line was interesting to a point but I couldn't fathom why Abbot Roald hated Artemesia so much, and the Pip/ Jack story was irritating - why couldn't they sit down and sort the whole thing out?
It seemed as though the author had put a lot of time into research into herbs, spices and botany and needed to let us all know - the continual lists were disruptive to the flow. I am interested in cooking with herbs and spices but it was all a bit repetitive.
It seemed as though the author had put a lot of time into research into herbs, spices and botany and needed to let us all know - the continual lists were disruptive to the flow. I am interested in cooking with herbs and spices but it was all a bit repetitive.
June 18, 2017
Interesting, kept me want to keep reading
March 22, 2017
Thanks to Dymocks Canberra for the ARC. It's so exciting to read great stories with well-rounded women protagonists, and by Australian authors! There aren't really a lot of books in that category, so The Midsummer Garden is a welcome addition, due for publication in April 2017. Manning tells the story of Pip, on her way to completing a PhD in marine biology in Tasmania in 2014, and Artemisia, a bright cook in a small chateau being wooed by a merchant in the late 1400s. The novel traverses themes from the sacrifices needed for relationships to bloom, through to self-discovery and hope, each treated with compassion. Full of evocative descriptions of scenery, gardens and food, this is an easy read, but one with soul.
March 17, 2017
I received this book as a giveaway from Goodreads. A wonderful blending of the past and present, the way of the food, herbs and spices was vital to the people involved. Two stories of love, struggle, betrayal and compromise separated by over 500 years. The modern and the medieval so different in every way but the stories and the recipes, herbs and spices make their way into the present and help a troubled, confused, Pip, decide on the direction her life should take.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2018
What a beautiful story (and book cover)! The Midsummer Garden is set in modern day Australia, Italy, Spain and France and has an intertwining story set in Medieval times. I really enjoyed this debut novel by Kirsty Manning. I won this book through Goodreads Giveaways.
June 20, 2017
Loved loved loved this book. It transports the reader to beautiful destinations around the world and takes us on a culinary journey. Still weeping over Artemisia...
March 11, 2018
The Midsummer Garden is Australian author Kirsty Manning's beautiful debut novel. Primarily set in Tasmania, Australia, from 2014-2016, it also gives the reader the opportunity to travel world to Spain, and Italy with Pip Arnet. Pip is a modern. late 20s woman who wants it all; a career and family. Putting her scientific career before her fiancee though, has led him to question if they are right for each other. While I understood, Jack, the fiancee's position, I really felt for Pip. She loves Jack but does not want to loose everything she has dreamt of. On the flip side, without Jack questioning their relationship, Pip would not have discovered her true passion or herself. I was never sure if Pip and Jack would end up together which made their journey all the more interesting.
Through Artemisia, the reader gets to travel back in time to France, 1487. Artemisia's story was very different to Pip's as she is about 17 years old and leads a very hard life. Artemisia is in charge of the kitchens of a chateau, using her knowledge of herbs to cook. At a tender age, she has fallen in love for the first time, daring to believe she can live a life outside of the chateau as a married woman. While I hoped in m heart that Artemisia would get everything she desired, not for one minute did I think it was easy. It wasn't. Life in the middle ages was brutal for the poor, especially women. It was heart breaking at times reading how Artemisia was physically abused. Her helplessness at the situation is difficult to comprehend makes one grateful for how times have changed. I was so proud when Artemisia stood up for herself when it counted most, which is all anyone can do.
With themes of love, family, food, careers and the constraints placed upon women in both eras, I thoroughly enjoyed spending time in the past and the present.
#AWWC number ???#
Through Artemisia, the reader gets to travel back in time to France, 1487. Artemisia's story was very different to Pip's as she is about 17 years old and leads a very hard life. Artemisia is in charge of the kitchens of a chateau, using her knowledge of herbs to cook. At a tender age, she has fallen in love for the first time, daring to believe she can live a life outside of the chateau as a married woman. While I hoped in m heart that Artemisia would get everything she desired, not for one minute did I think it was easy. It wasn't. Life in the middle ages was brutal for the poor, especially women. It was heart breaking at times reading how Artemisia was physically abused. Her helplessness at the situation is difficult to comprehend makes one grateful for how times have changed. I was so proud when Artemisia stood up for herself when it counted most, which is all anyone can do.
With themes of love, family, food, careers and the constraints placed upon women in both eras, I thoroughly enjoyed spending time in the past and the present.
#AWWC number ???#
April 26, 2017
Loved all the locations from Tasmania in Australia to Tuscany in Italy and Paris in France! I really enjoyed this novel which kept me intrigued and involved following the fascinating modern day Pip and the15th Century medieval cook Artemisia with their herbs and cooking. So much reading about food made me hungry - reading and eating is always dangerous! The story kept me interested - though I was torn between the two stories to follow what happened next.
Thank you to Bookstr and publisher Allen & Unwin for a copy of this novel to read and review.
Thank you to Bookstr and publisher Allen & Unwin for a copy of this novel to read and review.
December 31, 2017
I was fortunate to win a copy of Kirsty Manning's debut novel The Midsummer Garden in giveaway from Allen & Unwin. An evocative tale of two women, food, love and copper pans. I look forward to reading more of Kirsty's work.
March 21, 2017
I was able to read this via giveaways and am thankful to have the chance to read this. For a debut novel it is well written and weaves the two times and stories together. Having read other books written in this style this is a easy and enjoyable one and if you enjoyed others in this style it is best you grab this as well.
April 21, 2017
I enjoyed the story and there was good suspense in places. The switch between past and present was well managed. I had hoped that there would be a happy ending for Artemisia and Andreas but it was not to be. Jack and Pip did have a happy ending though thanks to the recipes of Artemisia in some inherited family cooking pots that took Pip on a journey to Spain and France.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2017
This is a story that blends an historical love story and a current day love story. Using themes of food, cooking, travel, gardening and botanical elements, it has something for everyone. An easy, pleasant read and a great way to escape.
March 21, 2017
“The Midsummer Garden” is an interesting novel. It uses a familiar structure, and some familiar tropes, but winds them up in a way that is a little unusual. It’s well written, with strong characterisation and a flowing style.
This uses the structure of two stories told in parallel; one set in more or less the present (2014), and one from a period considerably more distant in time (1487). This structure usually uses two stories that reflect each other or contrast with each other, and which hopefully illuminate each other. In this novel I found they seemed almost two separate stories, without strong connections. Although drawn together in the final pages of the novel, this was far more nebulous than I would have expected – although admittedly, this is probably more realistic.
In 1487 Artemisia is a talented cook in charge of the kitchens at the Chateau de Boschand. A woman, and one of low status, she has no power and not much control over her life. She does, however, have dreams of another life.
In 2014 Pip Arnet finds her life falling apart. She is struggling to finish her PhD; her fiancé, Jack is a boor who doesn’t seem to consider her needs much; and her family has problems that spill into her life.
Both of these are stories with the potential for considerable power and interest, but which fell just short of compelling for me. In Pip’s case, once her fiancé complained that she’d only marry him when it suited her (ie after her PhD was completed), I couldn’t believe that she wouldn’t point out that yes, actually, the wedding date should suit BOTH of them. I found Jack petty and Pip a bit of a doormat. As a result, I never really cared what the outcome of her story was going to be.
And although the story set in 1487 was well researched and most loving in its’ discussions of food, herbs and spices, I found the sense of Artemisia’s powerlessness uncomfortable enough that I couldn’t open myself to the character.
For me, this novel lacked emotional resonance. That’s because I never really connected with any of the characters in the book – somehow they didn’t speak to me. However, they’re vividly drawn and it’s quite likely that many other readers will find it easier to connect with them. That in turn would make the novel more powerful, while I felt vaguely dissatisfied at the end.
This is a well written, thoughtful novel that takes some unexpected approaches. I found it interesting and entertaining, although it never fully engaged my emotions. It’s likely to be enjoyed by readers looking for something with a little substance, but which is still a fairly undemanding read.
This uses the structure of two stories told in parallel; one set in more or less the present (2014), and one from a period considerably more distant in time (1487). This structure usually uses two stories that reflect each other or contrast with each other, and which hopefully illuminate each other. In this novel I found they seemed almost two separate stories, without strong connections. Although drawn together in the final pages of the novel, this was far more nebulous than I would have expected – although admittedly, this is probably more realistic.
In 1487 Artemisia is a talented cook in charge of the kitchens at the Chateau de Boschand. A woman, and one of low status, she has no power and not much control over her life. She does, however, have dreams of another life.
In 2014 Pip Arnet finds her life falling apart. She is struggling to finish her PhD; her fiancé, Jack is a boor who doesn’t seem to consider her needs much; and her family has problems that spill into her life.
Both of these are stories with the potential for considerable power and interest, but which fell just short of compelling for me. In Pip’s case, once her fiancé complained that she’d only marry him when it suited her (ie after her PhD was completed), I couldn’t believe that she wouldn’t point out that yes, actually, the wedding date should suit BOTH of them. I found Jack petty and Pip a bit of a doormat. As a result, I never really cared what the outcome of her story was going to be.
And although the story set in 1487 was well researched and most loving in its’ discussions of food, herbs and spices, I found the sense of Artemisia’s powerlessness uncomfortable enough that I couldn’t open myself to the character.
For me, this novel lacked emotional resonance. That’s because I never really connected with any of the characters in the book – somehow they didn’t speak to me. However, they’re vividly drawn and it’s quite likely that many other readers will find it easier to connect with them. That in turn would make the novel more powerful, while I felt vaguely dissatisfied at the end.
This is a well written, thoughtful novel that takes some unexpected approaches. I found it interesting and entertaining, although it never fully engaged my emotions. It’s likely to be enjoyed by readers looking for something with a little substance, but which is still a fairly undemanding read.
April 8, 2017
A charming story for the senses. A story that will make you hungry – and you will love it.
It will make you hungry for life, travel and yes – food. Freshly grown, foraged, prepared with love –food. The decadent descriptions of fresh produce, cooking, wine, plants and gardens set a vivid backdrop to this tale of our protagonist Pip (not a coincidence I’m sure) finding her own way in life, sustaining her to take her journey on her own terms. She is given strength and purpose by a parallel story taking place centuries earlier that make the herbs, linden and chestnut trees descriptions so evocative you can smell them.
I savoured every morsel of this book. I became distracted, wanting to cook seasonal food for my family, rake up the linden leaves, plant the autumn veggie crop – smell the herbs. Buy it, read it and be inspired.
It will make you hungry for life, travel and yes – food. Freshly grown, foraged, prepared with love –food. The decadent descriptions of fresh produce, cooking, wine, plants and gardens set a vivid backdrop to this tale of our protagonist Pip (not a coincidence I’m sure) finding her own way in life, sustaining her to take her journey on her own terms. She is given strength and purpose by a parallel story taking place centuries earlier that make the herbs, linden and chestnut trees descriptions so evocative you can smell them.
I savoured every morsel of this book. I became distracted, wanting to cook seasonal food for my family, rake up the linden leaves, plant the autumn veggie crop – smell the herbs. Buy it, read it and be inspired.
March 29, 2017
This is a great read and I am delighted to have received it as a giveaway on Goodreads.
The author takes the reader from Tasmania to medieval France as she tells the stories of 2 woman in their search for love and contentment .
There is wonderful description in the book and I loved the descriptions of herbs and flowers in the chapters about Artimesia, it was incredible how useful some of these plants are.
When Pip travels to Tuscanny 2014 we again learn how many herbs are still being used in modern cookery.
The author has cleverly woven this tale of the 2 women together, it is some old iron pots given to Pip as an engagement present which are at the heart of the story and as the book progresses we learn where they came from.
So was there a happy ending to this book ? Well I am not going to spoil it for those who haven't read it as it is due for release in April 2017 , suffice to say I was in shock with the end and took a bit to get to sleep .
The cover is stunning and just lures the reader in , it kind of captured me right from the start.
It is a good read , anyone who enjoys a family saga/ romance/mystery will love this and the history is interesting, as well as the information about the herbs and their uses. The author has done a lot of research and this is acknowledged in the book , and it is very clear she has an interest in cooking and gardening . This is the first I have read by this author but I hope there will be more
The author takes the reader from Tasmania to medieval France as she tells the stories of 2 woman in their search for love and contentment .
There is wonderful description in the book and I loved the descriptions of herbs and flowers in the chapters about Artimesia, it was incredible how useful some of these plants are.
When Pip travels to Tuscanny 2014 we again learn how many herbs are still being used in modern cookery.
The author has cleverly woven this tale of the 2 women together, it is some old iron pots given to Pip as an engagement present which are at the heart of the story and as the book progresses we learn where they came from.
So was there a happy ending to this book ? Well I am not going to spoil it for those who haven't read it as it is due for release in April 2017 , suffice to say I was in shock with the end and took a bit to get to sleep .
The cover is stunning and just lures the reader in , it kind of captured me right from the start.
It is a good read , anyone who enjoys a family saga/ romance/mystery will love this and the history is interesting, as well as the information about the herbs and their uses. The author has done a lot of research and this is acknowledged in the book , and it is very clear she has an interest in cooking and gardening . This is the first I have read by this author but I hope there will be more
April 8, 2017
A beautiful story bridging centuries. The tales are the same in a sense but the path they are on and the influencing factors so very different. The story is eloquent throughout, the description of the fauna incredible. The food that is written about including amazing use of flowers, herbs, spices and others has the mouth watering. A very enjoyable read. Thanks for the giveaway Allen & Unwin.
April 24, 2017
This book was a bit up and down for me. I enjoyed the tale set in 1487. I really enjoyed getting to know Artemisia and disliking Abbot Roald.
But I didn't connect with the story set in 2014 so much. Parts of it seemed a bit contrived. I never really bought the issues between Pip and Jack. For a couple that communicated with each other so well, it seemed implausible that they couldn't tell each other what they really wanted; especially when they each appeared to be so clear about what they wanted for themselves. So the trajectory of their relationship didn't resonate with me and I didn't buy their reticence to sit down and nut out what they each wanted. Their break-up seemed pointless and for me was immediately unmasked as a device to get them back together later in the story.
Apart from that, I enjoyed the writing in lots of ways, once I was able to put a few pages between me and the break-up. It would've been interesting to see where the story might have ended up if Pip had been given the opportunity to channel some of Artemisia's strength and happily strike off on her own. I think this was why I found Pip's guilt over Pedro a bit annoying. What I probably liked most about Pip's story was her bonds with the other women in the story, even Valentina. Not a catfight in sight.
But I think Manning handled Artemisia's story really well. The turn this took was unexpected but plausible given the lack of agency that a female cook would have had in 1487. Given how likeable that character was I think Manning was pretty gutsy with this part of the story, and I have to take my hat off to her for not allowing the characters in 2014 to find out in some way what had been her fate. That was completely plausible.
It could have been a really interesting study on the changing lot of women through the ages. This still would have worked with the themes of culinary alchemy, herbal lore, strength and resilience and would've been a nice package to wrap it up in. It sounds like I didn't like this story; I did. My disappointment is probably because the premise intrigued me and I wanted to like it more than I did.
But I didn't connect with the story set in 2014 so much. Parts of it seemed a bit contrived. I never really bought the issues between Pip and Jack. For a couple that communicated with each other so well, it seemed implausible that they couldn't tell each other what they really wanted; especially when they each appeared to be so clear about what they wanted for themselves. So the trajectory of their relationship didn't resonate with me and I didn't buy their reticence to sit down and nut out what they each wanted. Their break-up seemed pointless and for me was immediately unmasked as a device to get them back together later in the story.
Apart from that, I enjoyed the writing in lots of ways, once I was able to put a few pages between me and the break-up. It would've been interesting to see where the story might have ended up if Pip had been given the opportunity to channel some of Artemisia's strength and happily strike off on her own. I think this was why I found Pip's guilt over Pedro a bit annoying. What I probably liked most about Pip's story was her bonds with the other women in the story, even Valentina. Not a catfight in sight.
But I think Manning handled Artemisia's story really well. The turn this took was unexpected but plausible given the lack of agency that a female cook would have had in 1487. Given how likeable that character was I think Manning was pretty gutsy with this part of the story, and I have to take my hat off to her for not allowing the characters in 2014 to find out in some way what had been her fate. That was completely plausible.
It could have been a really interesting study on the changing lot of women through the ages. This still would have worked with the themes of culinary alchemy, herbal lore, strength and resilience and would've been a nice package to wrap it up in. It sounds like I didn't like this story; I did. My disappointment is probably because the premise intrigued me and I wanted to like it more than I did.
February 22, 2017
Open the gorgeous feel-good cover and slip between the old chateau life of cooking herbs and that of a Tasmanian nature lover in the present.
Should be a popular read.
Should be a popular read.
April 23, 2017
Loved this book. It was endearing, rich with detail and had genuinely likeable characters. Briefly it tells the interlinking stories of a modern Australian woman and 15th century Frenchwoman. The narration alternates between these to women whose lives intersect through the gift of a set of copper cooking pots.
What I liked most about it was Kirsty Manning's accurate description of life in my state. I could feel the sting and taste of the salty wind on my lips and the chill of the icy waters on my skin as she described Pip Arnet's work as a marine biologist on the wild shores of the Tasmanian southern coast.
What also fascinated me was the the details within the the story of Artemisia a young 15th C French woman, the second protagonist in this story. The meticulous research that has gone into making this not just historically accurate but also a fascinating window into life at that time.
I loved the sensuous detail in the descriptions of food and herbs. The romantic and family relationships shone through as the characters were relatable. A lovely read by a new author.
What I liked most about it was Kirsty Manning's accurate description of life in my state. I could feel the sting and taste of the salty wind on my lips and the chill of the icy waters on my skin as she described Pip Arnet's work as a marine biologist on the wild shores of the Tasmanian southern coast.
What also fascinated me was the the details within the the story of Artemisia a young 15th C French woman, the second protagonist in this story. The meticulous research that has gone into making this not just historically accurate but also a fascinating window into life at that time.
I loved the sensuous detail in the descriptions of food and herbs. The romantic and family relationships shone through as the characters were relatable. A lovely read by a new author.
February 16, 2017
This book is amazing - couldn't put it down. It mixed modern and historical fiction so well and I loved the detail into some of the old uses for herbs that seems to be largely ignored in today's world.
March 6, 2017
I was lucky to have won a copy of this book in the Giveaways. The cover was what actually attracted me to see what the book was about and the story did not disappoint. I found the changing between past and present very easy to follow. Loved the two characters' journeys, especially Artimisia's and the further I got into the book the harder it was to put down. A great read of passion, strength and love. There was also great sadness but I actually loved how that fit into the story.
July 17, 2017
I really enjoyed this book, that I won through Goodreads. The characters were interesting and well written. Don't usually like historic fiction, but this worked well, going between the modern day and then back to the middle ages. Made you realise you didn't want to live in those times!!!
Would definitely recommend this book.
Would definitely recommend this book.
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