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Arbatos sodai
Nuo vėjų košiamo Anglijos pajūrio miesto Braitono iki Kalkutos lūšnynų ir kvapą gniaužiančių Himalajų kalnų...
Daktarei Ailai Fenvik gali pavydėti šiuolaikiškiausios 1933 metų moterys – karjera suteikė jai padėtį visuomenėje, kilmė davė laisvę, be to, staiga jos gyvenime vėl atsirado senoji meilė Jovianas Mandevilis ir jai pasipiršo.
Nors Ailai, regis, nieko netrūksta, ją saisto pažadas, duotas motinos mirties akivaizdoje: įgyti medicinos praktikos Indijoje ir tik tada tapti pasiaukojančia žmona. Gavusi Jovo palaiminimą Aila išplaukia į Kalkutą padirbėti naujojoje akušerijos klinikoje. Moteris negali numatyti, kad Indijoje bus išbandyta visa, kas sudaro jos gyvenimo pagrindą, įskaitant profesionalumą ir ištikimybę.
Lemtinga pažintis su paslaptinguoju profesoriumi Saksonu Vikeriu meta tikrą iššūkį tam, kuo Aila iki šiol tikėjo. Kai abudu gydytojai atsiduria arbatos plantacijoje netoli Dardžilingo, įsikūrusio Himalajų priekalnėse, Aila turi ryžtis svarbiausiam gyvenime žingsniui. Ir vadinamojo pasaulio stogo, kur susisiekia žemė ir dangus, akivaizdoje pasirenka savo lemtį.
Išmoningas ir įtaigus, nukeliantis skaitytoją į praėjusio amžiaus ketvirtąjį dešimtmetį pasakojimas apie pareigą ir ryžtą, nenugalimą aistrą ir susitaikymą su likimu.
Daktarei Ailai Fenvik gali pavydėti šiuolaikiškiausios 1933 metų moterys – karjera suteikė jai padėtį visuomenėje, kilmė davė laisvę, be to, staiga jos gyvenime vėl atsirado senoji meilė Jovianas Mandevilis ir jai pasipiršo.
Nors Ailai, regis, nieko netrūksta, ją saisto pažadas, duotas motinos mirties akivaizdoje: įgyti medicinos praktikos Indijoje ir tik tada tapti pasiaukojančia žmona. Gavusi Jovo palaiminimą Aila išplaukia į Kalkutą padirbėti naujojoje akušerijos klinikoje. Moteris negali numatyti, kad Indijoje bus išbandyta visa, kas sudaro jos gyvenimo pagrindą, įskaitant profesionalumą ir ištikimybę.
Lemtinga pažintis su paslaptinguoju profesoriumi Saksonu Vikeriu meta tikrą iššūkį tam, kuo Aila iki šiol tikėjo. Kai abudu gydytojai atsiduria arbatos plantacijoje netoli Dardžilingo, įsikūrusio Himalajų priekalnėse, Aila turi ryžtis svarbiausiam gyvenime žingsniui. Ir vadinamojo pasaulio stogo, kur susisiekia žemė ir dangus, akivaizdoje pasirenka savo lemtį.
Išmoningas ir įtaigus, nukeliantis skaitytoją į praėjusio amžiaus ketvirtąjį dešimtmetį pasakojimas apie pareigą ir ryžtą, nenugalimą aistrą ir susitaikymą su likimu.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2017
409 people are currently reading
984 people want to read
About the author
Fiona McIntosh
70 books2,004 followersFiona writes best selling historical adventure-romance alongside the heroic-romantic, often brutal, fantasy she built her career upon. She lives in Australia but frequently roams the world meticulously researching the locations and gathering material for her historical novels that have international settings. Her books are published worldwide and in various languages.
Her most recent historical fiction has gathered such a following that she is now hosting a tour in 2014 to Paris and Provence so eager readers can walk in the footsteps of her characters.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Her most recent historical fiction has gathered such a following that she is now hosting a tour in 2014 to Paris and Provence so eager readers can walk in the footsteps of her characters.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
December 19, 2017
Dr Isla Fenwick loved her father dearly and wasn’t surprised he disagreed with Isla’s need to work at the hospital in Calcutta. Her desire to teach midwifery, to bring standards up to those in Britain was strong. It was also where her mother had worked as a young woman; where she had contracted the disease which eventually took her life. When Jovian Mandeville re-entered Isla’s life, and brought with him his desire to marry Isla, she knew she still had to fulfil her life’s dream before she could marry.
The journey at sea from England to India was a long one, but Isla made few acquaintances. When she finally arrived at the hospital in Calcutta she was exhausted. But her immersion into the job began the following day and it wasn’t long before the thrill of teaching was once again upon her.
The reputation of Professor Saxon Vickery had preceded him. Everyone was in awe of him, but declared he was a horrid man. Isla’s first meeting with the man himself proved the second part of that reputation to be true. But as Isla taught her craft, it seemed she also had much to learn – the slums of India were horrifying; the divisions of religion vast. Everything Isla had ever known was being tested – her life would be forever changed from the experience…
As the time drew near for Isla to leave India, to travel home to marry Jove, her desire to see the Himalayan mountains was strong. She knew she would feel deep regret if she left India without seeing them – but what would happen when she arrived at the tea plantation outside Darjeeling?
The Tea Gardens by Aussie author Fiona McIntosh is another brilliant historical fiction novel by an author who proves time and again that she’s a master at her game. Set mainly in 1933, Isla’s narration of her months in India are fascinating. Written in a way that I felt I was experiencing it all; the gentle nature of the local midwives, the smells in the slums, the horrors that were there daily – right down to the beauty of the mountains and the fresh, pure air at the tea gardens. A thoroughly enjoyable novel, and one I highly recommend.
With thanks to Penguin Random House for my ARC to read and review.
The journey at sea from England to India was a long one, but Isla made few acquaintances. When she finally arrived at the hospital in Calcutta she was exhausted. But her immersion into the job began the following day and it wasn’t long before the thrill of teaching was once again upon her.
The reputation of Professor Saxon Vickery had preceded him. Everyone was in awe of him, but declared he was a horrid man. Isla’s first meeting with the man himself proved the second part of that reputation to be true. But as Isla taught her craft, it seemed she also had much to learn – the slums of India were horrifying; the divisions of religion vast. Everything Isla had ever known was being tested – her life would be forever changed from the experience…
As the time drew near for Isla to leave India, to travel home to marry Jove, her desire to see the Himalayan mountains was strong. She knew she would feel deep regret if she left India without seeing them – but what would happen when she arrived at the tea plantation outside Darjeeling?
The Tea Gardens by Aussie author Fiona McIntosh is another brilliant historical fiction novel by an author who proves time and again that she’s a master at her game. Set mainly in 1933, Isla’s narration of her months in India are fascinating. Written in a way that I felt I was experiencing it all; the gentle nature of the local midwives, the smells in the slums, the horrors that were there daily – right down to the beauty of the mountains and the fresh, pure air at the tea gardens. A thoroughly enjoyable novel, and one I highly recommend.
With thanks to Penguin Random House for my ARC to read and review.
April 16, 2018
The Tea Gardens is about a young woman's dream of helping others during childbirth in India. Dr Isla Fenwick's mother died soon after her birth and made her father promise to ensure that Isla married before turning thirty-one. Dr Isla Fenwick was in no hurry to find a someone to marry so her father took upon himself to do it. Charles Fenwick's candidate for his daughter was Jove Mandeville. However, Jove Mandeville understood Dr Isla Fenwick dreams to go to India and allow her to go. The readers of The Tea Gardens will continue to follow Dr Isla Fenwick's advantages in India.
The Tea Gardens is the first book I have read of Fiona McIntosh, and I did enjoy reading it. I know readers of The Tea Gardens do not like Jove Mandeville they think he is wimp I love him. Dr Isla Fenwick was so lucky to find a man that allows her to follow her dreams. The Tea Gardens is well written and research by Fiona McIntosh. I like her portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other. Fiona McIntosh does a great job of describing her plot and settings to her readers.
The readers of The Tea Gardens will learn about working and living in India. Also, the readers of The Tea Gardens will start to understand the medical procedures for Tuberculosis and the consequences of the disease on the suffers and family.
I recommend this book.
The Tea Gardens is the first book I have read of Fiona McIntosh, and I did enjoy reading it. I know readers of The Tea Gardens do not like Jove Mandeville they think he is wimp I love him. Dr Isla Fenwick was so lucky to find a man that allows her to follow her dreams. The Tea Gardens is well written and research by Fiona McIntosh. I like her portrayal of her characters and the way they interact with each other. Fiona McIntosh does a great job of describing her plot and settings to her readers.
The readers of The Tea Gardens will learn about working and living in India. Also, the readers of The Tea Gardens will start to understand the medical procedures for Tuberculosis and the consequences of the disease on the suffers and family.
I recommend this book.
May 30, 2019
Book Review
.
Title - The Tea Gardens
Book Details - Paperback - 398 Pages
Author - Fiona McIntosh
Genre - Historical Fiction/Romance
Countries - England (London & Brighton) India (Culcutta)
.
Nearing Christmas time, Isla was walking with her father on an Autumns day through Kensington Garden (of which they lived in South Kensington), when father just happened to mention, marriage. You see, Isla was now 30 and her father kept reminding Isla that he promised his wife (now deceased) that Isla will be married by 31. Father just slipped into conversation a certain Jove Manderville, a crush love Isla had when she was flat chested and had pigtails. Isla hadn't seen Jove for fifteen or so years. Father was keen, although Isla wasn't, however she reluctantly said yes, only for her father's sake.
.
Jove had picked a "common ground" venue and Isla had no idea where she was being chauffeured to .. a marriage proposal that was full of glass and with a "condition" suggested, and both agreed upon.
.
Isla (Dr Fendalton she was officially called, dealing in obstetrics) ideal dream was to go to Calcutta, India, and help set up a decent clinic there, however life was not straight forward as she planned, being introduced to one rude, obnoxious doctor, called Saxon Vickery, a Professor, who should be avoided by all costs and Miles, who had an ego the size as the universe. There was tension between the two males and Isla heart set on one of them.... was she going to risk it all and break the condition promised by herself and Jove back in England?
.
I can't get over how well written this book is!! I thought this was a nicely paced book, the way this story was told, and the plotting of it all, suited it well...... the pacing was just right. Immediately I was transported to London, nestled down amongst father and Isla, eaves dropping to see who was winning the war of whether father was successful with his matchmaking. Isla was definitely a strong willed character, but wise with it too, so I didnt despair if things didnt go according to plan, as I felt Isla would come out of it in one piece. Jove, to me, a perfect gentleman, his conditions fair and honest. I absolutely lived in this book!! I was going on a train, to of all places .... Calcutta, a place I thought I would never get to ... and never by a train! and only the creme de la creme for Isla, a perfect train ride, for sure! .... I was all ears as Mr Professor, and Mr High Almighty tossed Isla into quite a sea of emotions, and wondering was Isla playing with fire? Because as far as I was concerned Isla was going to drown if she kept doing what she was doing, going. Or is she wiser than that? Can she distinguish the fire? Or is the rough sea going to put it out for her? Isla doesn't half pick her men!!
.
This book comes highly recommended by me. I gave this 5 stars on Goodreads. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes Historical Fiction, especially London, England, Culcutta, India. This book is very much a womens book as it does go into woman's birthing issues, etc, so I would recommend to women out there that have gone through child birth. This book also does explain on how tea is grown, so I recommend to anyone with the fascination and curiosity on how it is made. This book also deals in "love triangles" so I recommend this book to anyone who likes being entertained by character dynamics that arent too complicated but deals in heart ache, cheating and happy endings. I would at this point like to thank, Ellen Read for gifting me this beautiful book and recommending it to me.
.
Title - The Tea Gardens
Book Details - Paperback - 398 Pages
Author - Fiona McIntosh
Genre - Historical Fiction/Romance
Countries - England (London & Brighton) India (Culcutta)
.
Nearing Christmas time, Isla was walking with her father on an Autumns day through Kensington Garden (of which they lived in South Kensington), when father just happened to mention, marriage. You see, Isla was now 30 and her father kept reminding Isla that he promised his wife (now deceased) that Isla will be married by 31. Father just slipped into conversation a certain Jove Manderville, a crush love Isla had when she was flat chested and had pigtails. Isla hadn't seen Jove for fifteen or so years. Father was keen, although Isla wasn't, however she reluctantly said yes, only for her father's sake.
.
Jove had picked a "common ground" venue and Isla had no idea where she was being chauffeured to .. a marriage proposal that was full of glass and with a "condition" suggested, and both agreed upon.
.
Isla (Dr Fendalton she was officially called, dealing in obstetrics) ideal dream was to go to Calcutta, India, and help set up a decent clinic there, however life was not straight forward as she planned, being introduced to one rude, obnoxious doctor, called Saxon Vickery, a Professor, who should be avoided by all costs and Miles, who had an ego the size as the universe. There was tension between the two males and Isla heart set on one of them.... was she going to risk it all and break the condition promised by herself and Jove back in England?
.
I can't get over how well written this book is!! I thought this was a nicely paced book, the way this story was told, and the plotting of it all, suited it well...... the pacing was just right. Immediately I was transported to London, nestled down amongst father and Isla, eaves dropping to see who was winning the war of whether father was successful with his matchmaking. Isla was definitely a strong willed character, but wise with it too, so I didnt despair if things didnt go according to plan, as I felt Isla would come out of it in one piece. Jove, to me, a perfect gentleman, his conditions fair and honest. I absolutely lived in this book!! I was going on a train, to of all places .... Calcutta, a place I thought I would never get to ... and never by a train! and only the creme de la creme for Isla, a perfect train ride, for sure! .... I was all ears as Mr Professor, and Mr High Almighty tossed Isla into quite a sea of emotions, and wondering was Isla playing with fire? Because as far as I was concerned Isla was going to drown if she kept doing what she was doing, going. Or is she wiser than that? Can she distinguish the fire? Or is the rough sea going to put it out for her? Isla doesn't half pick her men!!
.
This book comes highly recommended by me. I gave this 5 stars on Goodreads. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes Historical Fiction, especially London, England, Culcutta, India. This book is very much a womens book as it does go into woman's birthing issues, etc, so I would recommend to women out there that have gone through child birth. This book also does explain on how tea is grown, so I recommend to anyone with the fascination and curiosity on how it is made. This book also deals in "love triangles" so I recommend this book to anyone who likes being entertained by character dynamics that arent too complicated but deals in heart ache, cheating and happy endings. I would at this point like to thank, Ellen Read for gifting me this beautiful book and recommending it to me.
September 27, 2023
„Arbatos sodai“ – kontrastų knyga. Iš pilkos ir lietingos Anglijos pasakojimas nukelia skaitytoją į spalvingą ir dinamišką Indiją, kitos kultūros, kitų papročių šalį, kur moters vieta ketvirto XX a. dešimtmečio visuomenėje neatitinka plačių ir idealistinių pagrindinės veikėjos užmojų. Nežabota aistra varžosi su tyra meile, o tylus susitaikymas nenori užleisti vietos kovai už savo įsitikinimus.
Oj kaip man patiko ši knyga, lėta, jausminga, tokia šilta, turbūt tai buvo ta knyga kurios dabar ir norėjosi. Arbata kvepiantis romanas. ❤️
Oj kaip man patiko ši knyga, lėta, jausminga, tokia šilta, turbūt tai buvo ta knyga kurios dabar ir norėjosi. Arbata kvepiantis romanas. ❤️
April 8, 2018
3.5★ for Fiona McIntosh's West Bengal tale of tea and temptation.
It's 1932 and Isla Fenwick is fast-approaching the age by which her father had promised her dying mother he would have walked her down the aisle. Isla's far more interested in her medical career than in the conventions of marriage, duty and homelife. In fact, she hasn't discussed it with her father yet, but she plans to follow in her mother's footsteps and travel to India to practice medicine. But when her father suggests her teenage crush as a potential suitor, Isla's curiosity is piqued and she agrees to meet with the man.
In the blink of an eye, the two meet, fall in love and agree to marry. Isla confides in her fiance, Jove, about her plans for India, and surprisingly he agrees to give her some time to pursue her ambitions before they wed. Isla travels to Calcutta to take up a position in the maternity department of a local hospital, where she meets Professor Saxon Vickery...
This book has all the ingredients for a great read - I love Fiona McIntosh, I love historical fiction, I love the (present day) West Bengal location, I love a strong female protagonist - and on the whole I did really enjoy reading it. In particular there were some lovely descriptive passages; the treats in the window of the teahouse in Brighton, the dresses Isla wore on a few pivotal occasions, and of course the mountains. But there were a few moments when I felt like I was reading a Mills & Boon romance (not that there's anything wrong with that, if that's what you're into!). I also felt a bit cheated that we didn't get to the mountains until quite close to the end of the story. And a couple of references to Bangladesh in 1933 irked the pedant in me. So for me this book was not as great as the sum of its parts. I didn't love it, but I liked it a lot.
It's 1932 and Isla Fenwick is fast-approaching the age by which her father had promised her dying mother he would have walked her down the aisle. Isla's far more interested in her medical career than in the conventions of marriage, duty and homelife. In fact, she hasn't discussed it with her father yet, but she plans to follow in her mother's footsteps and travel to India to practice medicine. But when her father suggests her teenage crush as a potential suitor, Isla's curiosity is piqued and she agrees to meet with the man.
In the blink of an eye, the two meet, fall in love and agree to marry. Isla confides in her fiance, Jove, about her plans for India, and surprisingly he agrees to give her some time to pursue her ambitions before they wed. Isla travels to Calcutta to take up a position in the maternity department of a local hospital, where she meets Professor Saxon Vickery...
This book has all the ingredients for a great read - I love Fiona McIntosh, I love historical fiction, I love the (present day) West Bengal location, I love a strong female protagonist - and on the whole I did really enjoy reading it. In particular there were some lovely descriptive passages; the treats in the window of the teahouse in Brighton, the dresses Isla wore on a few pivotal occasions, and of course the mountains. But there were a few moments when I felt like I was reading a Mills & Boon romance (not that there's anything wrong with that, if that's what you're into!). I also felt a bit cheated that we didn't get to the mountains until quite close to the end of the story. And a couple of references to Bangladesh in 1933 irked the pedant in me. So for me this book was not as great as the sum of its parts. I didn't love it, but I liked it a lot.
June 14, 2025
After a short prologue, the book goes back to 1933. Dr Isla Fenwick is a respected doctor and a very independent woman. She dreams of going to India as her mother did and helping women there with midwifery and babies. Her father is not happy about her plans but wants to see her married before she reaches 31 to fulfil a promise he made to his wife. There are fourteen months till that date. With that aim in mind he brings Jove Mandeville back into her life. Isla had a huge crush on him when she was younger.and agrees she will meet with him. Feelings are renewed. So, if she is going to go to India it will have to be before she marries Jove. However she promises she will not go near the TB area since it was TB that took her mother’s life.
Isla heads to India. When she arrives in Calcutta she hears a lot about the highly respected but abrasive Dr.Saxon Vickery. But then Isla starts to find another intriguing side to him. What will her time in India mean for her future and her marriage to Jove? Will it change her and her plans forever?
This historical novel is a love story but so much more. It is obvious a lot of research has gone into this book. Beautifully written, it contains especially clear descriptions of India and in particular of the Himalayas. Descriptions of Calcutta are earthy and confronting.
I learned a lot about the culture and beliefs of Hindus and especially the caste system. Also learned a lot about TB and growing and producing tea. Although there was a wealth of valuable Information the story, it did feel overly long at times. Again it could be just me feeling that way. Still a recommended read
Isla heads to India. When she arrives in Calcutta she hears a lot about the highly respected but abrasive Dr.Saxon Vickery. But then Isla starts to find another intriguing side to him. What will her time in India mean for her future and her marriage to Jove? Will it change her and her plans forever?
This historical novel is a love story but so much more. It is obvious a lot of research has gone into this book. Beautifully written, it contains especially clear descriptions of India and in particular of the Himalayas. Descriptions of Calcutta are earthy and confronting.
I learned a lot about the culture and beliefs of Hindus and especially the caste system. Also learned a lot about TB and growing and producing tea. Although there was a wealth of valuable Information the story, it did feel overly long at times. Again it could be just me feeling that way. Still a recommended read
February 16, 2024
Būsiu mažuma, neprasidėjus prie pagyrų šiai knygai.
Didžioji dalis knygos man buvo nuobodi ir tik likus maždaug 150 psl. pasidarė šiek tiek įdomiau. Siužetas nuspėjamas. Gydytojos misija Indijoje - net kilo klausimas skaitant, kam iš viso buvo reikalinga ši siužetinė linija, nes ji buvo paviršutiniška ir neišbaigta. Laikotarpis iki misijos Indijoje - pilkas ir nuobodus. Negalima meilė - be intrigos ar kokio cinkelio. Pagrindinė herojė blanki, o įsimylėjusi dar ir tapo kvailoka. Jos sužadėtinis jau toks tobulas, jau toks supratingas, jau toks kilnus, ko realiame gyvenime nebūna.
Ir suma sumarum - nepatiko.
Didžioji dalis knygos man buvo nuobodi ir tik likus maždaug 150 psl. pasidarė šiek tiek įdomiau. Siužetas nuspėjamas. Gydytojos misija Indijoje - net kilo klausimas skaitant, kam iš viso buvo reikalinga ši siužetinė linija, nes ji buvo paviršutiniška ir neišbaigta. Laikotarpis iki misijos Indijoje - pilkas ir nuobodus. Negalima meilė - be intrigos ar kokio cinkelio. Pagrindinė herojė blanki, o įsimylėjusi dar ir tapo kvailoka. Jos sužadėtinis jau toks tobulas, jau toks supratingas, jau toks kilnus, ko realiame gyvenime nebūna.
Ir suma sumarum - nepatiko.
January 11, 2018
3 stars
⛤⛤⛤
I am not a romance lover, but I do love my historical fiction. Thank goodness for me, there was a fair amount of history for me to learn from in this book or else I may have thrown my very expensive headphones across the room!
Dr Isla Fenwick is a great doctor, but she is a hopeless fool. She heads off to India to practice there for a few months and puts herself into situations which were completely contradictory to the promises she made to her dad and her boyfriend back in England. I didn't like her, but I did learn a lot about India and tea.
⛤⛤⛤
I am not a romance lover, but I do love my historical fiction. Thank goodness for me, there was a fair amount of history for me to learn from in this book or else I may have thrown my very expensive headphones across the room!
Dr Isla Fenwick is a great doctor, but she is a hopeless fool. She heads off to India to practice there for a few months and puts herself into situations which were completely contradictory to the promises she made to her dad and her boyfriend back in England. I didn't like her, but I did learn a lot about India and tea.
November 7, 2017
The Tea Gardens by Fiona McIntosh is a captivating new novel set in the magical Tea Gardens of Darjeeling in India.
Starting in Brighton where jonquils bloom to a meeting at a Lyons Teahouse where love blossoms.
Isla sets her hopes and dreams on India working as a doctor only to fall in love with one amidst the backdrop of the breathtaking Himalayas and Tea Gardens of Darjeeling.
It's the Story of Tea and it's makings whether it be Darjeeling, Assam or Chai ~ this story will delight you as you travel through the Tea Gardens in India.
This is a real page-turner!
You won't be able to wait to hear what happens next.
It's hot and steamy ~ just like your favourite tea!
Or, bubble bath...
Just you wait and see in this new, captivating novel, The Tea Gardens by Fiona McIntosh.
Escape to India this time with the Master Storyteller.
You'll be glad you did!
Starting in Brighton where jonquils bloom to a meeting at a Lyons Teahouse where love blossoms.
Isla sets her hopes and dreams on India working as a doctor only to fall in love with one amidst the backdrop of the breathtaking Himalayas and Tea Gardens of Darjeeling.
It's the Story of Tea and it's makings whether it be Darjeeling, Assam or Chai ~ this story will delight you as you travel through the Tea Gardens in India.
This is a real page-turner!
You won't be able to wait to hear what happens next.
It's hot and steamy ~ just like your favourite tea!
Or, bubble bath...
Just you wait and see in this new, captivating novel, The Tea Gardens by Fiona McIntosh.
Escape to India this time with the Master Storyteller.
You'll be glad you did!
October 10, 2022
„Niekas nepamiršta tikrosios meilės, bet galima gyventi jos prisiminimais. Gali nugyventi gerą gyvenimą net nebūdamas su žmogumi, kurį išties myli.“
Tobulo viršelio knyga su gražia istorija apie meilę, laukimą, pažadus, pasirinkimus ir išbandymus. Apie stiprią moterį, kuri kovoja už savo teises ir nori būti ne tik gera žmona ir mama, bet ir gera gydytoja, kovojančia su ligomis ir gelbstinčia žmones. Ir viskas persmelkta nuostabios gamtos ir atgaivinančios arbatos aprašymais. Nors nesu arbatos mėgėja, bet prie šios knygos jos būtinai reikėjo.
1933 metai Anglija. Daktarė Aila tikra šiuolaikiška tų laikų moteris, stipri, turinti savo nuomonę, tvirtai stovinti ant žemės, žinanti ko nori, kopianti karjeros laiptais. Iki pilnos laimės merginai trūksta medicinos praktikos, kurios ji nori įgyti Indijoje. Bet planus staiga sujaukia jos gyvenime atsiradusi senoji meilė Jovianas, kuris merginai pasiperša ir sumaišo visas kortas. Duok tu man tokį tobulą sužadėtinį, kuris jau ir šiek tiek vyresnis, gyvenimo matęs, bet laukė būtent šitos moters, ir dargi išleidžia savo sužadėtinę į kelionę, kad sugrįžus galėtų tapti pasiaukojančia žmona. Nežinau ar begali būti geriau, ar tikrai gyvenime dar būna tokių tobulybių. Tik, kad ta Indija sudrebina merginos gyvenimą kaip koks žemės drebėjimas, sujudina visą gyvenimo pagrindą ne tik profesinėje srityje, bet ir širdyje.
Knyga labai įtraukia, net nepajunti, kaip persikeli kartu su veikėjais į praėjusio amžiaus ketvirtąjį dešimtmetį į Kalkutos lūšnynus ir kvapą gniaužiančius Himalajaus kalnus, kur žemė susisiekia su dangumi, kur verda gyvenimas, o veikėjai renkasi savo lemtį ir atsiduoda likimui.
Man patiko ir net labai.
Tobulo viršelio knyga su gražia istorija apie meilę, laukimą, pažadus, pasirinkimus ir išbandymus. Apie stiprią moterį, kuri kovoja už savo teises ir nori būti ne tik gera žmona ir mama, bet ir gera gydytoja, kovojančia su ligomis ir gelbstinčia žmones. Ir viskas persmelkta nuostabios gamtos ir atgaivinančios arbatos aprašymais. Nors nesu arbatos mėgėja, bet prie šios knygos jos būtinai reikėjo.
1933 metai Anglija. Daktarė Aila tikra šiuolaikiška tų laikų moteris, stipri, turinti savo nuomonę, tvirtai stovinti ant žemės, žinanti ko nori, kopianti karjeros laiptais. Iki pilnos laimės merginai trūksta medicinos praktikos, kurios ji nori įgyti Indijoje. Bet planus staiga sujaukia jos gyvenime atsiradusi senoji meilė Jovianas, kuris merginai pasiperša ir sumaišo visas kortas. Duok tu man tokį tobulą sužadėtinį, kuris jau ir šiek tiek vyresnis, gyvenimo matęs, bet laukė būtent šitos moters, ir dargi išleidžia savo sužadėtinę į kelionę, kad sugrįžus galėtų tapti pasiaukojančia žmona. Nežinau ar begali būti geriau, ar tikrai gyvenime dar būna tokių tobulybių. Tik, kad ta Indija sudrebina merginos gyvenimą kaip koks žemės drebėjimas, sujudina visą gyvenimo pagrindą ne tik profesinėje srityje, bet ir širdyje.
Knyga labai įtraukia, net nepajunti, kaip persikeli kartu su veikėjais į praėjusio amžiaus ketvirtąjį dešimtmetį į Kalkutos lūšnynus ir kvapą gniaužiančius Himalajaus kalnus, kur žemė susisiekia su dangumi, kur verda gyvenimas, o veikėjai renkasi savo lemtį ir atsiduoda likimui.
Man patiko ir net labai.
April 18, 2025
4.5 ⭐️s
Audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by: Bolinda audio
Read by Katy Sobey
Duration: 12 hrs, 31 min. 1.25x Speed
Audiobook via BorrowBox
Published by: Bolinda audio
Read by Katy Sobey
Duration: 12 hrs, 31 min. 1.25x Speed
November 26, 2017
The Tea Gardens was a mixed book for me. Some parts of it I absolutely adored, others I had to really push through to suspend disbelief (well, it is fiction). I picked it up and put it down several times. Some days I missed it, others I didn’t. It’s a book of contrasts – the different cultures of England and India, the roles of women in the 1930s, passion versus love and acceptance versus fighting for your beliefs.
The book started off well for me. Isla is a female doctor, single and working hard in England to improve the lives of women in obstetrics. Her true desire is to go to India to work in tropical diseases, but her father is against that as he believes India and tuberculosis is what killed Isla’s mother. They’ve come to a compromise – Isla to go to India, but work in obstetrics. However, her father has one last trick up his sleeve – reintroduce Isla to her teenage crush Jove, who is now looking for a wife. I was a bit uncomfortable at this point – surely as a female doctor in a very male dominated field Isla would have developed the strength to stand up for what she wanted to do? Perhaps at heart she was willing to defer to her father’s wishes. When Isla and Jove met, it was an instalove involving a long date culminating in a proposal. Again, this was a bit weird for me – one date and you’re happy to be bonded for life? Jove also seemed a bit controlling already in what he wanted Isla to do and not do during her time in India – could Isla not see it?
Doubts aside, Isla arrives in Calcutta and turns the obstetrics ward around to improve things. She has a follower in fellow doctor Miles, a seemingly benign ladder climber and soon, an enemy in tropical diseases specialist Saxon. But amongst the sparring is an essence of respect between the pair and it’s to Saxon Isla turns to when she tries to help out a young couple. This has disastrous consequences for all involved…
Isla was a character who didn’t always sit quite right with me, as you’ve likely guessed from above. She can be quite headstrong and irrational at times but also kind of stupid. There was one line where she was looking at a wound, and says to herself, “just beginning to leak blood…or extravasate, I corrected in my mind…’. If Isla is an experienced doctor, I would think she would automatically think in medical terms. Nor would she go on to define extravasate to herself – she should automatically be speaking that language to herself and her colleagues. (I could go on about her use of the word painkiller but I’ll get off my high horse – maybe it’s just us moderns who would never say that to a co-worker). She’s a mish-mash of devotion, romance and immaturity – not really a typical woman in her thirties for me. Saxon I found much more interesting as he spoke bluntly, honestly communicating his thoughts without social niceties. (Plus, he had a good knowledge of tea).
The style of writing of The Tea Gardens wasn’t quite my cup of tea. As the previous paragraph shows, I’m not one for a ton of description unless it seems natural. I felt that some of the descriptions, particularly of the scenery, were over the top in use of adjectives for me. The story was also very well researched, but again I personally thought there was too much at times. It felt like when you’re answering an exam question but know so much more about something a bit off topic and decide to cram it in there to demonstrate your knowledge.
If you enjoy romantic historical fiction, you may well disagree with my opinion. Unfortunately, the story and I couldn’t quite make it work for each other.
Thank you to Penguin for the copy of this book.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
The book started off well for me. Isla is a female doctor, single and working hard in England to improve the lives of women in obstetrics. Her true desire is to go to India to work in tropical diseases, but her father is against that as he believes India and tuberculosis is what killed Isla’s mother. They’ve come to a compromise – Isla to go to India, but work in obstetrics. However, her father has one last trick up his sleeve – reintroduce Isla to her teenage crush Jove, who is now looking for a wife. I was a bit uncomfortable at this point – surely as a female doctor in a very male dominated field Isla would have developed the strength to stand up for what she wanted to do? Perhaps at heart she was willing to defer to her father’s wishes. When Isla and Jove met, it was an instalove involving a long date culminating in a proposal. Again, this was a bit weird for me – one date and you’re happy to be bonded for life? Jove also seemed a bit controlling already in what he wanted Isla to do and not do during her time in India – could Isla not see it?
Doubts aside, Isla arrives in Calcutta and turns the obstetrics ward around to improve things. She has a follower in fellow doctor Miles, a seemingly benign ladder climber and soon, an enemy in tropical diseases specialist Saxon. But amongst the sparring is an essence of respect between the pair and it’s to Saxon Isla turns to when she tries to help out a young couple. This has disastrous consequences for all involved…
Isla was a character who didn’t always sit quite right with me, as you’ve likely guessed from above. She can be quite headstrong and irrational at times but also kind of stupid. There was one line where she was looking at a wound, and says to herself, “just beginning to leak blood…or extravasate, I corrected in my mind…’. If Isla is an experienced doctor, I would think she would automatically think in medical terms. Nor would she go on to define extravasate to herself – she should automatically be speaking that language to herself and her colleagues. (I could go on about her use of the word painkiller but I’ll get off my high horse – maybe it’s just us moderns who would never say that to a co-worker). She’s a mish-mash of devotion, romance and immaturity – not really a typical woman in her thirties for me. Saxon I found much more interesting as he spoke bluntly, honestly communicating his thoughts without social niceties. (Plus, he had a good knowledge of tea).
The style of writing of The Tea Gardens wasn’t quite my cup of tea. As the previous paragraph shows, I’m not one for a ton of description unless it seems natural. I felt that some of the descriptions, particularly of the scenery, were over the top in use of adjectives for me. The story was also very well researched, but again I personally thought there was too much at times. It felt like when you’re answering an exam question but know so much more about something a bit off topic and decide to cram it in there to demonstrate your knowledge.
If you enjoy romantic historical fiction, you may well disagree with my opinion. Unfortunately, the story and I couldn’t quite make it work for each other.
Thank you to Penguin for the copy of this book.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
May 26, 2019
I surprised myself and quite a few others when I requested The Tea Gardens by accomplished women’s author Fiona McIntosh. I could get into mild trouble if I call this a romantic novel – it is – although it carries an interesting clinical, greographical and historical base to the story.
So, then, how did I get on with it? Very well indeed!
Charles Fenwick arranges for his daughter Isla to meet Jove Mandeville, a man she has not seen since she was barely into her teens, and he mid-twenties. At the time she had a crush on this handsome man, while he found her attractive and especially mature. An obstetrician now nearing thirty, Isla remains unmarried.
Early in the book she attends a number of women pre- and post-partem and, as the most senior available doctor at the Hunter Street hospital on the day, scrubs up and performs an emergency caesarean when a baby’s umbilicus prolapses.
Isla is determined to help women in a more needing society. She works with an Anglo-Indian woman, Ellen, who admonishes her that everything in India, where she intends to practice, will be greatly different. “It’s not your world …don’t try to change anything …just make a small difference for a few while you’re there.”
Her departure for India is to follow in the footsteps of the clinical work previously done by her mother, from which she contracted tuberculosis. Her father approves her wish, provided she sticks to the field of midwifery, and warns her against working anywhere TB may be prevalent.
Isla and Jove spend a day at Brighton where he has booked a pier for their sole use in the hour before official opening. A dormant love re-awakens. She respects him because of his delight in her intelligence and personality rather than her beauty, and he in the fact she won’t ever bore him with tedious conversation. He proposes and she accepts, although Jove makes the proviso she will spend less than a year in India in midwifery, cautious of the fact she may face the underlying cause of her mother’s death.
Arriving in her new hospital in Calcutta, where she must learn as she goes about faith and caste, all is well until Isla meets Professor Saxon Vickery. He creates an angry scene and she confronts him, setting him straight on how he must treat the female medical staff. She has mixed feelings for this tall man with broad shoulders and unruly golden hair: He might be Apollo on a visit from Olympus; what a pity, then, he lives up to popular opinion that he is contemptible.
Despite Isla’s initial impressions, there may be a different side to the professor; the hospital matron takes time to extract a promise from her that she’ll at least look at the humanitarian work he does.
The Tea Gardens – the name originating from a major setting in a Darjeeling tea plantation – is a book of great passion, in more ways than one. Everything prior to Isla’s departure to India seemed clear, straightforward. Now, working in the mountain country, everything seems to become more complex. The situation is intensified when one falls ill and the other provides clinical treatment.
I found this a beautifully crafted story, as readers evidently expect from the pen of Fiona McIntosh. Her audience will remain enthralled.
So, then, how did I get on with it? Very well indeed!
Charles Fenwick arranges for his daughter Isla to meet Jove Mandeville, a man she has not seen since she was barely into her teens, and he mid-twenties. At the time she had a crush on this handsome man, while he found her attractive and especially mature. An obstetrician now nearing thirty, Isla remains unmarried.
Early in the book she attends a number of women pre- and post-partem and, as the most senior available doctor at the Hunter Street hospital on the day, scrubs up and performs an emergency caesarean when a baby’s umbilicus prolapses.
Isla is determined to help women in a more needing society. She works with an Anglo-Indian woman, Ellen, who admonishes her that everything in India, where she intends to practice, will be greatly different. “It’s not your world …don’t try to change anything …just make a small difference for a few while you’re there.”
Her departure for India is to follow in the footsteps of the clinical work previously done by her mother, from which she contracted tuberculosis. Her father approves her wish, provided she sticks to the field of midwifery, and warns her against working anywhere TB may be prevalent.
Isla and Jove spend a day at Brighton where he has booked a pier for their sole use in the hour before official opening. A dormant love re-awakens. She respects him because of his delight in her intelligence and personality rather than her beauty, and he in the fact she won’t ever bore him with tedious conversation. He proposes and she accepts, although Jove makes the proviso she will spend less than a year in India in midwifery, cautious of the fact she may face the underlying cause of her mother’s death.
Arriving in her new hospital in Calcutta, where she must learn as she goes about faith and caste, all is well until Isla meets Professor Saxon Vickery. He creates an angry scene and she confronts him, setting him straight on how he must treat the female medical staff. She has mixed feelings for this tall man with broad shoulders and unruly golden hair: He might be Apollo on a visit from Olympus; what a pity, then, he lives up to popular opinion that he is contemptible.
Despite Isla’s initial impressions, there may be a different side to the professor; the hospital matron takes time to extract a promise from her that she’ll at least look at the humanitarian work he does.
The Tea Gardens – the name originating from a major setting in a Darjeeling tea plantation – is a book of great passion, in more ways than one. Everything prior to Isla’s departure to India seemed clear, straightforward. Now, working in the mountain country, everything seems to become more complex. The situation is intensified when one falls ill and the other provides clinical treatment.
I found this a beautifully crafted story, as readers evidently expect from the pen of Fiona McIntosh. Her audience will remain enthralled.
January 6, 2021
Įtraukianti ir nebepaleidžianti istorija apie jaunos gydytojos karjeros ir jausmų vingius. Knyga supažindina su Indija. Neaplenkta ir arbatos istorija. Knyga tiks norintiems atsipalaiduoti ir lengvai paskaityti, nes jos turinys atskiestas nemaža meilės doze, o kur dar kultūrų skirtumai! Patiko
December 15, 2017
OVERALL THOUGHTS
The Tea Gardens is a light, enjoyable historical romance read set in the exotic 1930's India. If your not a stickler for historical detail/accuracy then you'll enjoy this book. Although I don't think it's one of McIntosh's best books, I think it would make a great beach read this summer if your looking for something light and easy to read. To find out more about what I loved and what I didn't like keep reading >>
WHAT I LOVED
Strong Female Protagonist
Like all of Fiona McIntosh's books, at least the ones that I've read, The Tea Gardens had a great strong lead female character in the form of Isla Fenwick. Isla is an Obstetrician during a time where there were hardly any female doctors. She is extremely passionate, independent and driven by a strong desire to make the world a better place which I really resonated with.
The Exotic Setting
The majority of the story takes place in 1930's India which was the time of Gandhi and the Indian Independence movement. Despite the political and social turmoil going on at the time, I find that there is something exotic about the last decade of British Colonial India. I think it's a combination of the fashion, the Colonial architecture, the glamorous lifestyle of the English, the intricate social structure (and conflicts) and the lush landscape. For anyone who watched the TV series Indian Summers You'll know what I mean. If you haven't watched it I highly recommend it. Check out the trailer here.
Learning About Tea Plantations
Part of the story takes us to an Indian tea plantation and I found it interesting learning about the growing, harvesting and production process of tea. I also learnt about the different types of tea which I was only vaguely aware of before, being more of a herbal tea drinker myself.
Romantic Love Triangle
The central plotline of the Tea Gardens is the love triangle between the lead character Isla, Jove, the intelligent, liberal minded and charismatic man she becomes engaged to prior to leaving for India, and Saxon, the broody, mysterious and handsome doctor/colleague Isla meets in India. Sometimes love triangles can be a bit cliche and cheesy but I thought McIntosh pulled this one off well. Isla is well suited to and has feelings for both men for different reasons. For this reason I thought that this love triangle felt like a pretty realistic scenario. It kept me reading because I wanted to know who Isla chose.
The relationships Isla has with these two men made me consider which is the best kind of love. The kind of love that is passionate, uncontrollable, unintentional and all consuming or the kind that grows out of a deep friendship, mutual respect, admiration and values. Somewhere in between is my conclusion.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
Characters Felt Like Modern People In A Historical Setting
I felt that in the way that the three main characters thought and expressed themselves made them seem like people from today's society, not people who were born and raised in early 20th century English society.
There were a few scenes where the characters speak very openly and candidly to one another about their feelings. Many people today would not speak in such a vulnerable way and I find it hard to imagine that people in the 1930's would express themselves in this manner, when social customs were much more reserved.
I also thought that some of the thoughts and beliefs of the characters were a bit too progressive for the time. For example, when Jove tells Isla his beliefs about women and marriage:
Authors Voice Came Across Too Much
The above passage is also an example of the thoughts, beliefs and intentions of the author coming through. I felt like there were times where McIntosh used the character's dialogue to express her own beliefs about life. I'm not saying that it's wrong of her to want to do this, but I think that for this to be done effectively it needs to sound like it's coming from the characters by developing a strong tone of voice for each character.
Some Cheesy Romantic Lines
If you can't already tell, I'm a bit of a realist, and I like a story to feel realistic and relatable. I therefore found some of the conversations between Isla and Saxon a bit cheesy e.g.
Characters Felt A Bit Unrealistic
As a result of the three things mentioned above I thought that the characters felt a bit unrealistic. I love it when you buy into and fall in love with characters so much that they feel like real friends. The Tea Garden did not do this for me.
Isla Chose The Wrong Man!
I'm not going to spoil it for you by telling you who it was, but in my opinion she chose the wrong man. If I were her I would have chosen the other one. I can completely understand why she chose who she did but I wanted her to end up with the other one. I have a lot more to say about this but I'll end it there because I fear that I'll give it away.
Did you like this review? You can find more just like it, along with some pretty graphics on my blog novellynicola.com.
The Tea Gardens is a light, enjoyable historical romance read set in the exotic 1930's India. If your not a stickler for historical detail/accuracy then you'll enjoy this book. Although I don't think it's one of McIntosh's best books, I think it would make a great beach read this summer if your looking for something light and easy to read. To find out more about what I loved and what I didn't like keep reading >>
WHAT I LOVED
Strong Female Protagonist
Like all of Fiona McIntosh's books, at least the ones that I've read, The Tea Gardens had a great strong lead female character in the form of Isla Fenwick. Isla is an Obstetrician during a time where there were hardly any female doctors. She is extremely passionate, independent and driven by a strong desire to make the world a better place which I really resonated with.
The Exotic Setting
The majority of the story takes place in 1930's India which was the time of Gandhi and the Indian Independence movement. Despite the political and social turmoil going on at the time, I find that there is something exotic about the last decade of British Colonial India. I think it's a combination of the fashion, the Colonial architecture, the glamorous lifestyle of the English, the intricate social structure (and conflicts) and the lush landscape. For anyone who watched the TV series Indian Summers You'll know what I mean. If you haven't watched it I highly recommend it. Check out the trailer here.
Learning About Tea Plantations
Part of the story takes us to an Indian tea plantation and I found it interesting learning about the growing, harvesting and production process of tea. I also learnt about the different types of tea which I was only vaguely aware of before, being more of a herbal tea drinker myself.
Romantic Love Triangle
The central plotline of the Tea Gardens is the love triangle between the lead character Isla, Jove, the intelligent, liberal minded and charismatic man she becomes engaged to prior to leaving for India, and Saxon, the broody, mysterious and handsome doctor/colleague Isla meets in India. Sometimes love triangles can be a bit cliche and cheesy but I thought McIntosh pulled this one off well. Isla is well suited to and has feelings for both men for different reasons. For this reason I thought that this love triangle felt like a pretty realistic scenario. It kept me reading because I wanted to know who Isla chose.
The relationships Isla has with these two men made me consider which is the best kind of love. The kind of love that is passionate, uncontrollable, unintentional and all consuming or the kind that grows out of a deep friendship, mutual respect, admiration and values. Somewhere in between is my conclusion.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
Characters Felt Like Modern People In A Historical Setting
I felt that in the way that the three main characters thought and expressed themselves made them seem like people from today's society, not people who were born and raised in early 20th century English society.
There were a few scenes where the characters speak very openly and candidly to one another about their feelings. Many people today would not speak in such a vulnerable way and I find it hard to imagine that people in the 1930's would express themselves in this manner, when social customs were much more reserved.
I also thought that some of the thoughts and beliefs of the characters were a bit too progressive for the time. For example, when Jove tells Isla his beliefs about women and marriage:
"It's a contract after all, and gone are the days of women meekly agreeing to their parents' choices...Today, while financial suitability still rules as a major concern, I'm certain a lot more daughters now have a lot more say. They are looking for love, for romance, for integrity of the promises being given,"In the 1930's it was still early days of women's rights and independence and many women were still oppressed. The vote was only granted to women in England a few years earlier in 1928. I therefore find it hard to believe that a man in 1933, who was raised during a time where the old paradigm about women's role in society ruled, would think this eloquently about women and marriage. Even if he did believe in women's rights, this passage feels like a modern sentiment rather than one from the early days of women's suffrage.
Authors Voice Came Across Too Much
The above passage is also an example of the thoughts, beliefs and intentions of the author coming through. I felt like there were times where McIntosh used the character's dialogue to express her own beliefs about life. I'm not saying that it's wrong of her to want to do this, but I think that for this to be done effectively it needs to sound like it's coming from the characters by developing a strong tone of voice for each character.
Some Cheesy Romantic Lines
If you can't already tell, I'm a bit of a realist, and I like a story to feel realistic and relatable. I therefore found some of the conversations between Isla and Saxon a bit cheesy e.g.
"I've been fighting against a tide of desire and yearning since you first slapped me "Can someone tell me who actually says that in real life? Although I do secretly wish that there are people who do, I just am yet to meet one lol.
Characters Felt A Bit Unrealistic
As a result of the three things mentioned above I thought that the characters felt a bit unrealistic. I love it when you buy into and fall in love with characters so much that they feel like real friends. The Tea Garden did not do this for me.
Isla Chose The Wrong Man!
I'm not going to spoil it for you by telling you who it was, but in my opinion she chose the wrong man. If I were her I would have chosen the other one. I can completely understand why she chose who she did but I wanted her to end up with the other one. I have a lot more to say about this but I'll end it there because I fear that I'll give it away.
Did you like this review? You can find more just like it, along with some pretty graphics on my blog novellynicola.com.
November 8, 2017
This author has a wonderful ability to create atmospheric exotic locales. The visuals, smells and even the feels of surfaces transport you exactly to that spot. She also has some wonderful plot lines.
In this story, a young British doctor travels to India to work in a hospital, where she continues her Mother’s work. Just before she leaves, she has a romantic encounter with her first love, who to her surprise asks her to marry him. She accepts with hope he will agree to let her travel to India to fulfill her dream. He agrees, but later asks her to not wear to ring on her travels. This plays out for an enchanting romantic journey.
A must read for all who enjoy romantic historical fiction.
In this story, a young British doctor travels to India to work in a hospital, where she continues her Mother’s work. Just before she leaves, she has a romantic encounter with her first love, who to her surprise asks her to marry him. She accepts with hope he will agree to let her travel to India to fulfill her dream. He agrees, but later asks her to not wear to ring on her travels. This plays out for an enchanting romantic journey.
A must read for all who enjoy romantic historical fiction.
December 5, 2017
What an absolutely beautiful story, it pulled me in and didn't want to let me go.
Isla is a young progressive woman in 1932 who as a doctor has dreams to help people in India. She is lucky enough to meet a man who loves her but is willing for her to chase those dreams so long as she promises to return to him.
The way Fiona McIntosh writes enables you to travel to the time and place and to experience the whole thing as if you were there. Experiencing the harshness and beauty of India, the trials and hopes of being a doctor in this world, and learning about who Isla is and what she learns on this journey was just wonderful.
A story of love and redemption and following your heart. I highly recommend this novel.
Isla is a young progressive woman in 1932 who as a doctor has dreams to help people in India. She is lucky enough to meet a man who loves her but is willing for her to chase those dreams so long as she promises to return to him.
The way Fiona McIntosh writes enables you to travel to the time and place and to experience the whole thing as if you were there. Experiencing the harshness and beauty of India, the trials and hopes of being a doctor in this world, and learning about who Isla is and what she learns on this journey was just wonderful.
A story of love and redemption and following your heart. I highly recommend this novel.
February 10, 2018
I read the bulk of this book enroute to Europe and it’s a good read - and we all know I love a Fiona McIntosh book. I love her leading ladies because they are spunky, ahead of their times, strong willed, smart and savvy. And she knows how to write a good romantic story set in exotic locations and time periods. This one was the 1930s. Set in England and India. I must admit I wasn’t keen on the India part but she got me over the line. Look forward to the next one Fiona!
November 29, 2017
It’s always a delight to read one of Fiona’s books! I always feel like I am there with her when reading as she has the ability to write about location and the sights and smells that go with it all! I always finish reading learning a little about something and this time it’s Tea! Now To have a cup of Darjeeling Tea!
August 31, 2020
Skaitydama dažnai geriu arbatą. Mėgstų juodą, sodrią, natūralią arba su aromatais. Gal dėl to suviliojo romanas "Arbatos sodai". O kur dar pagrindinė veikėja gydytoja... Deja, romanas pateisino ne visus lūkesčius.
Veiksmas vyskta XX amžiuje, tarpukariu. Aila Fenvik, akušerė ginekologė, ruošiasi kelionei į Indiją. Ji planuoja pasidalinti patirtimi ir padėti Britų kolonijos piliečiams bei sekti mamos pėdomis. Londone ji palieka mylimą sužadėtinį Jovianą ir leidžiasi į nuotykį. Na, o Indijoje keliai susikerta su Saksonu Vikeriu, moterų širdžių užkariautoju.
Pati istorija labai blanki... Veiksmas vyksta lėtai, daug apmąstymų. Ne visad supratau Ailos poelgius. Atrodė jie gan trumparegiški. Ir pati mintis suvesti pasižadėjusią moterį su aistringu vyru nėra labai originali.
Vis dėl to romaną šiek tiek išgelbėjo Indijos miesto, kalnų, Arbatos sodų aprašymai. Buvo įdomu sužinoti apie arbatos atsiradimo istoriją. Na, bet tik tiek. Deja, romanui žavesio nepridėjo ir taip mano mėgstama medicinos tema. Ji galėjo būti labiau išplėtota, taip nesudievinta.
Galbūt romanas ir nėra blogas. Tikrai galima atrasti romantikos. Tiesiog ne mano knyga...
Veiksmas vyskta XX amžiuje, tarpukariu. Aila Fenvik, akušerė ginekologė, ruošiasi kelionei į Indiją. Ji planuoja pasidalinti patirtimi ir padėti Britų kolonijos piliečiams bei sekti mamos pėdomis. Londone ji palieka mylimą sužadėtinį Jovianą ir leidžiasi į nuotykį. Na, o Indijoje keliai susikerta su Saksonu Vikeriu, moterų širdžių užkariautoju.
Pati istorija labai blanki... Veiksmas vyksta lėtai, daug apmąstymų. Ne visad supratau Ailos poelgius. Atrodė jie gan trumparegiški. Ir pati mintis suvesti pasižadėjusią moterį su aistringu vyru nėra labai originali.
Vis dėl to romaną šiek tiek išgelbėjo Indijos miesto, kalnų, Arbatos sodų aprašymai. Buvo įdomu sužinoti apie arbatos atsiradimo istoriją. Na, bet tik tiek. Deja, romanui žavesio nepridėjo ir taip mano mėgstama medicinos tema. Ji galėjo būti labiau išplėtota, taip nesudievinta.
Galbūt romanas ir nėra blogas. Tikrai galima atrasti romantikos. Tiesiog ne mano knyga...
May 27, 2019
A beautiful story about love and discovery. Isla went on a journey to carry out her lifes ambition to make a difference in India and carry on her mothers work. In the process she learnt about herself.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the hospital in Calcutta and learning more about TB. I also loved the tea gardens and learning about tea and it's history.
Some of this story regarding the caste system and what can happen when the rules are broken was heartbreaking, especially knowing that it still happens today. An enjoyable read.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the hospital in Calcutta and learning more about TB. I also loved the tea gardens and learning about tea and it's history.
Some of this story regarding the caste system and what can happen when the rules are broken was heartbreaking, especially knowing that it still happens today. An enjoyable read.
July 21, 2018
I’m not sure when I bought this book but I do remember that it was one of my ‘Blind Date With A Book’ purchases from a local book store. If I remember correctly, the three ‘hook’ words written on the cover were: Tea, Romance, Himalayas. Now all three of those things are my jam. I love tea – in fact at my new home I have an entire cupboard devoted just to tea and my fancy teacups. I have about nine different varieties of tea at the moment that I drink at different times or when I’m in different moods. Although I like tea (a lot) I wouldn’t say I’m a connoisseur but I’m always interested in learning more. I’ve read a book or two focusing around tea plantations in Darjeeling and so for me, that was primarily what I was interested in when I picked up this book.
Isla is a single woman who is almost 30 and a qualified doctor working in obstetrics. She has a particular interest in both tropical diseases and working in India, perhaps because her mother died of tuberculosis. She wishes to go and work in India but her overprotective father has agreed only if she focuses on the obstetrics side, rather than getting involved with trying to eradicate diseases. One last wish her father has is that she marry so that he may rest easy and so he reintroduces her to Jovian Mandeville, her teenage crush.
Isla and Jove hit it off and agree that they will make each other very suitable spouses. Although Jove is fine with Isla going to work in India to live out her dream, he also extracts a promise from her, that she return by a certain date for their wedding, which will limit the time she has to really make a difference in India. Isla agrees however and she travels to India to begin working, an experience that is rocked for her when she meets tropical disease specialist Saxon.
The first half of this book was just okay for me. I didn’t mind it but it wasn’t really hooking me in to the story. I enjoyed Isla’s interest in her work and found some of that quite interesting but the whirlwind date with Jove was a bit much and I never really thought that I as the reader got to know Jove well enough. I know Isla had known him a long time but she was a child the last time she saw him and hadn’t seen him for many years. So really she didn’t know him anymore either. Isla either places a lot of trust in her father’s judgement or getting married was of such little importance to her that she really didn’t care who it was that she married.
I didn’t really feel that there was enough about being in India, perhaps because Isla lived in an area with many British (ie white) and socialised with them and I guess the experience of being there for many people of that time was that their down time was dominated by people a lot like them. There is definitely a local and cultural situation that Isla gets involved in, despite being warned against this by Saxon and it plays out with some very dire consequences that affect both Isla and Saxon. And for me, this is where I really started warming up to this story and becoming involved with it and invested in it. And it’s not too long after that where the setting moves to a tea plantation. I found all of the information about the tea and the descriptions of the area so wonderful, it was really interesting to me. I also warmed a bit more to the character of Isla and her reason for being at the tea plantation. There was a hopelessness to it, a sort of fait accompli but it didn’t stop me getting invested anyway. I absolutely loved the last probably third of the story and I think if it had all been set in that location, this would be in my top reads of the year.
Overall I enjoyed this but I did feel that it lagged for me in the first third to half of the book and I was really just looking forward to reading about tea and maybe my expectation of this book was a bit influenced by the three descriptive words on the wrapping paper. It made me think about what words I would’ve chosen to describe this and I don’t think I’d have emphasised tea because it takes so long for that to be a major part of the story. There was a lot of research done for this novel and I liked a lot of the information about women in medicine during this time as well as developing practices in obstetrics and the lurking threat of diseases like tuberculosis. All of that was quite interesting to me but I was honestly less taken with the Jove situation. I didn’t dislike him, there just wasn’t enough of him to like or dislike which made the ending a bit lacklustre.
Isla is a single woman who is almost 30 and a qualified doctor working in obstetrics. She has a particular interest in both tropical diseases and working in India, perhaps because her mother died of tuberculosis. She wishes to go and work in India but her overprotective father has agreed only if she focuses on the obstetrics side, rather than getting involved with trying to eradicate diseases. One last wish her father has is that she marry so that he may rest easy and so he reintroduces her to Jovian Mandeville, her teenage crush.
Isla and Jove hit it off and agree that they will make each other very suitable spouses. Although Jove is fine with Isla going to work in India to live out her dream, he also extracts a promise from her, that she return by a certain date for their wedding, which will limit the time she has to really make a difference in India. Isla agrees however and she travels to India to begin working, an experience that is rocked for her when she meets tropical disease specialist Saxon.
The first half of this book was just okay for me. I didn’t mind it but it wasn’t really hooking me in to the story. I enjoyed Isla’s interest in her work and found some of that quite interesting but the whirlwind date with Jove was a bit much and I never really thought that I as the reader got to know Jove well enough. I know Isla had known him a long time but she was a child the last time she saw him and hadn’t seen him for many years. So really she didn’t know him anymore either. Isla either places a lot of trust in her father’s judgement or getting married was of such little importance to her that she really didn’t care who it was that she married.
I didn’t really feel that there was enough about being in India, perhaps because Isla lived in an area with many British (ie white) and socialised with them and I guess the experience of being there for many people of that time was that their down time was dominated by people a lot like them. There is definitely a local and cultural situation that Isla gets involved in, despite being warned against this by Saxon and it plays out with some very dire consequences that affect both Isla and Saxon. And for me, this is where I really started warming up to this story and becoming involved with it and invested in it. And it’s not too long after that where the setting moves to a tea plantation. I found all of the information about the tea and the descriptions of the area so wonderful, it was really interesting to me. I also warmed a bit more to the character of Isla and her reason for being at the tea plantation. There was a hopelessness to it, a sort of fait accompli but it didn’t stop me getting invested anyway. I absolutely loved the last probably third of the story and I think if it had all been set in that location, this would be in my top reads of the year.
Overall I enjoyed this but I did feel that it lagged for me in the first third to half of the book and I was really just looking forward to reading about tea and maybe my expectation of this book was a bit influenced by the three descriptive words on the wrapping paper. It made me think about what words I would’ve chosen to describe this and I don’t think I’d have emphasised tea because it takes so long for that to be a major part of the story. There was a lot of research done for this novel and I liked a lot of the information about women in medicine during this time as well as developing practices in obstetrics and the lurking threat of diseases like tuberculosis. All of that was quite interesting to me but I was honestly less taken with the Jove situation. I didn’t dislike him, there just wasn’t enough of him to like or dislike which made the ending a bit lacklustre.
December 3, 2017
The Tea Gardens by internationally best-selling author Fiona McIntosh, is a historical fiction novel set in the early 1930s. It takes you on a colourful journey from proper well-to-do London, to the slums of Calcutta, and beyond to the magical Himalayan mountains. And you will indeed be transported on each and every page thanks to Fiona's brilliant use of colour, texture and smell. You will feel as if you are walking alongside Isla,seeing things directly through her eyes in this first person narrative.
There is something about a Fiona McIntosh novel that is captivating. It's not something that you can point to, more a feeling that she creates through her combination of delicate prose, and delightful descriptions. And The Tea Gardens is no exception. Fiona again displays her prowess across all aspects of the novel, from prose to dialogue, narrative tension, and a captivating storyline.
Isla is a character that will play with your emotions, as she is somewhat a contradiction of characteristic at times. Strong, yet vulnerable. Smart, yet naive. Determined, yet stubborn. Which is in fact a brilliant way for a character to be. It not only makes her seem real, but also makes you invest in her story. From very early on, you want to know what will happen, and how it will change her. Will she be strong enough to endure her journey and return as promised? Or will her nativity and stubbornness cloud her decisions?
It's hard to discuss the two male protagonists without hinting at the story, so I will just say that they couldn't be more different. Both having their good points and downfalls making for an intriguing storyline.
The story touches on many of the issues of the 1930s, many of which still are current today. Issues such as class, status, privilege, gender, race, religion, and politics. And it will have you considering each and every one for Isla, and for the state of the world - where we've come from, and how far we still have to go.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Tea Gardens. And yes, it will make you want to reach for a cup of Darjeeling tea each time you sit down to read.
There is something about a Fiona McIntosh novel that is captivating. It's not something that you can point to, more a feeling that she creates through her combination of delicate prose, and delightful descriptions. And The Tea Gardens is no exception. Fiona again displays her prowess across all aspects of the novel, from prose to dialogue, narrative tension, and a captivating storyline.
Isla is a character that will play with your emotions, as she is somewhat a contradiction of characteristic at times. Strong, yet vulnerable. Smart, yet naive. Determined, yet stubborn. Which is in fact a brilliant way for a character to be. It not only makes her seem real, but also makes you invest in her story. From very early on, you want to know what will happen, and how it will change her. Will she be strong enough to endure her journey and return as promised? Or will her nativity and stubbornness cloud her decisions?
It's hard to discuss the two male protagonists without hinting at the story, so I will just say that they couldn't be more different. Both having their good points and downfalls making for an intriguing storyline.
The story touches on many of the issues of the 1930s, many of which still are current today. Issues such as class, status, privilege, gender, race, religion, and politics. And it will have you considering each and every one for Isla, and for the state of the world - where we've come from, and how far we still have to go.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Tea Gardens. And yes, it will make you want to reach for a cup of Darjeeling tea each time you sit down to read.
April 17, 2018
Dr Isla Fenwick one who specialises in Obstetrics but with a passion in Tropical Diseases courtesy of her deceased mother who had the same passion convinces her father of her need to travel to India to fulfil her dream. Isla is from a privileged background and adding to the mix is a handsome suitor reintroduced to her by her father from her childhood who proposes marriage but allows (?) her to fulfil her dream conditional that she return to marry in November. I wonder about the author giving these men such a patriarchal attitude. Realistically given the timeline in this book as a woman achieving a medical degree would have to make any woman more decisive and stronger than Dr Isla Fenwick. Unfortunately the author has kept her emotionally subservient to these two men which follows for the whole book with only a hint occasionally of real strength when it comes to the surprising romantic interlude with a work colleague and dealing with a grubby social climber colleague.
The descriptions of the mountain regions and the tea growing areas makes for an pleasurable read. The author through her research has obviously been affected by the majesty of this environment and it was a joy to read about this and the different modes of travel and the toy train. Reintroducing me to many of the teas I was once associated with during my young adulthood and the mountain descriptions suited many in the highlands of New Guinea. The true insight as to why many English went to work in India where they had more importance than ever achievable in the UK, servants, sipping Pink Gins and being total bores was like reading an extract from my own young experience in New Guinea but where the drinks were G & T or Gin Slings at the Lae Club.
The research makes for interesting reading however this book remained generally unfulfilling for me.
The descriptions of the mountain regions and the tea growing areas makes for an pleasurable read. The author through her research has obviously been affected by the majesty of this environment and it was a joy to read about this and the different modes of travel and the toy train. Reintroducing me to many of the teas I was once associated with during my young adulthood and the mountain descriptions suited many in the highlands of New Guinea. The true insight as to why many English went to work in India where they had more importance than ever achievable in the UK, servants, sipping Pink Gins and being total bores was like reading an extract from my own young experience in New Guinea but where the drinks were G & T or Gin Slings at the Lae Club.
The research makes for interesting reading however this book remained generally unfulfilling for me.
February 28, 2019
I found this book weaker than the other Fiona McIntosh's stories.
A lot of her writing was repetitive... saying the same thing many times but differently to draw the story out longer.
The settings of the story ignited imagination but feel short with meaningless relationships. I wasnt a fan of any of the characters except maybe Lilly, they all exuded pomp and nonsense, I often found myself rolling my eyes at the words on the page.
The main character even though a highly skilled doctor and meant to be an independent woman, was constantly led by men. Often in dialogue she doesnt get a word in, men were basically having one sided conversations, where she thought a lot but never said anything... and when she did reply it was with a tacky, cliched response ( hence the eye rolling)
Maybe I need a break from Fiona McIntosh.
A lot of her writing was repetitive... saying the same thing many times but differently to draw the story out longer.
The settings of the story ignited imagination but feel short with meaningless relationships. I wasnt a fan of any of the characters except maybe Lilly, they all exuded pomp and nonsense, I often found myself rolling my eyes at the words on the page.
The main character even though a highly skilled doctor and meant to be an independent woman, was constantly led by men. Often in dialogue she doesnt get a word in, men were basically having one sided conversations, where she thought a lot but never said anything... and when she did reply it was with a tacky, cliched response ( hence the eye rolling)
Maybe I need a break from Fiona McIntosh.
July 29, 2018
Yet another beautiful novel from the talented Fiona McIntosh. The imagery she creates is testament to the depth of research she does for every novel. I could see, smell, hear and taste every magical morsel
of India and was transported to places many only dream of visiting and back to a time where a female doctor was an oddity, yet alone one who chose to travel alone to the slums of Calcutta. You will fall in love with Isla Fenwick and in lust with Saxon Vickery and never want this story to end.
of India and was transported to places many only dream of visiting and back to a time where a female doctor was an oddity, yet alone one who chose to travel alone to the slums of Calcutta. You will fall in love with Isla Fenwick and in lust with Saxon Vickery and never want this story to end.
August 3, 2018
I enjoyed the book and it was probably a 4.5 book for me. I loved the story about a female doctor who goes to India (with the blessing of a man she has promised to marry) to practice medicine. In India she is confronted by the poverty and struggles with the archaic caste system. When she crosses the caste system while trying to do the right thing she doesn't realise how dangerous her actions are.
I did want to slap her on the odd occasion but the heroine was a great character.
I did want to slap her on the odd occasion but the heroine was a great character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2018
I love all about this book! The storyline, the characters and the setting. I think it is the first book, or at least in a long time, to literally make me shed tears and I could feel the raw emotions. A must read.
July 11, 2021
An easy book to read, with all the usual romance, bit of history on tea making, and exotic location
Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews