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Where Wild Peaches Grow
In a deeply emotional novel of family, cultural heritage, and forgiveness, estranged sisters wrestle with the choices they’ve made and confront circumstances beyond their control.
Nona “Peaches” Davenport, abandoned by the man she loved and betrayed by family, left her Natchez, Mississippi, home fifteen years ago and never looked back. She’s forged a promising future in Chicago as a professor of African American Studies. Nona even finds her once-closed heart persuaded by a new love. But that’s all shaken when her father’s death forces her to return to everything she’s tried to forget.
Julia Curtis hasn’t forgiven her sister for deserting the family. Just like their mother, Nona walked away from Julia when she needed her most. And Julia doesn’t feel guilty for turning to Nona’s old flame, Marcus, for comfort. He helped Julia build a new life. She has a child, a career, and a determination to move on from old family wounds.
Upon Nona’s return to Natchez, a cautious reunion unfolds, and everything Nona and Julia thought they knew—about themselves, each other, and those they loved—will be tested. Unpacking the truth about why Nona left may finally heal their frayed bond—or tear it apart again, forever.
Nona “Peaches” Davenport, abandoned by the man she loved and betrayed by family, left her Natchez, Mississippi, home fifteen years ago and never looked back. She’s forged a promising future in Chicago as a professor of African American Studies. Nona even finds her once-closed heart persuaded by a new love. But that’s all shaken when her father’s death forces her to return to everything she’s tried to forget.
Julia Curtis hasn’t forgiven her sister for deserting the family. Just like their mother, Nona walked away from Julia when she needed her most. And Julia doesn’t feel guilty for turning to Nona’s old flame, Marcus, for comfort. He helped Julia build a new life. She has a child, a career, and a determination to move on from old family wounds.
Upon Nona’s return to Natchez, a cautious reunion unfolds, and everything Nona and Julia thought they knew—about themselves, each other, and those they loved—will be tested. Unpacking the truth about why Nona left may finally heal their frayed bond—or tear it apart again, forever.
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First published August 30, 2022
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About the author
Cade Bentley
1 book66 followersCade Bentley is a pseudonym for author Abby L. Vandiver. She has also published under the name Abby Colette.
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August 22, 2023
2.7 Stars
One Liner: Could have been great but ends up choppy
Nona ‘Peaches’ Davenport left everything in Natchez, Mississippi, to move to Chicago. Fifteen years later, she is a professor of African-American Studies. Back home, her sister, Julia, is livid that Nona deserted the family like their mom, Cat. She doesn’t mind using Nona’s lover, Marcus, for her comfort and a better future.
Jasper Davenport, their father, has secrets of his own. But it’s his death that forces Nona to return home and Julia to confront the past. With more secrets, plenty of misunderstandings, and miscommunication, it’s up to the sisters to sort through the mess and rebuild their family. Can they do it?
The story comes in the third-person POV of Nona, Julia, and Jasper.
My Thoughts:
On the surface, the book seems to have what it takes to provide entertainment and some food for thought. However, it is mostly a mash of this and that, with loads of stupid decisions thrown into the mix.
The setting is beautiful, and I loved how Natchez is woven into the narrative. The land, its history, the heat, random rains, architecture, etc., make the book interesting. I always enjoy reading about new locations (to me), so this was a plus.
The characters could have truly shined with their flaws and vulnerabilities. While we get some introspective moments in how Nona and Julia change over the years, the emotional quotient is missing. There’s only so much blaming others and justifying one’s actions a reader can bear.
The book tries to deliver multiple messages – family bonding & relationships on the personal level and the Black history on the macro level. Yet, both seem to be half-baked and don’t blend seamlessly.
I’m not sure why Sanganette was given so much space. I understand her characterization, but it’s not cohesive. Julia’s friendship with her is odd. Also, Sanganette’s character was annoying from start to finish. While I see why her sense of privilege had to come across heavily, it needs to align with the rest of the plot.
The story moves between past and present with no clear indication in some places. Julia and Nona randomly think about past events. It’s easy to miss the shift unless we pay complete attention.
I hate misunderstanding and miscommunication tropes. While they have some benefits, using them for trivial issues can be annoying. Yeah, it does show how something inconsequential can have life-altering consequences. However, it would also be good if the characters just talked to each other. Statements like ‘I know they betrayed me’, ‘everyone knows about this’, etc., become a little too silly as the story progresses.
Then we have the most confusing face-off drama where accusations fly for no reason. TBH, this feels way too dramatic, with zero progress in the plot. For people who are supposed to be in their 30s, the sisters act worse than 8yos. Also, Nona is younger than Julia. I thought it was the opposite given how Julia acted. Not that Nona was any better.
What’s astonishing is how the person responsible for the mess is not even really blamed. We even have a character accepting it as something done to protect them. Ridiculous. The only person with some common sense was Jayden, Julia’s teenage son. Now go figure.
The ending tries to explore how distorted Black history from the region affected Nona when she learned the truth. While I see how it helped her research more to share the actual truth, that Nona could become so freaking insecure and go into a shell for trusting a friend seems unbelievable. She was 6, for goodness sake.
As someone from a colonized country, let me tell you that even today, we have people who believe that Colonization was the biggest blessing to our ancestors. They take pride in being ‘civilized’ and act more white than Whites. Unlearning and relearning are a part of growing up. These aren’t supposed to make one feel insecure about what they accepted as kids.
To summarize, Where Wild Peaches Grow aims high but falls flat in many places. The execution is not strong enough to present the themes cohesively, resulting in a choppy read.
Thank you, NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #WhereWildPeachesGrow
***
P.S.: This is a 2022 release.
***
Unrelated Info: Reading this after an Italian-based book wasn’t a great choice. Nonna from Italy (grandmother) and Nona here (the FMC) made it unintentionally funny. Also, I ended up with two average family dramas back-to-back.
One Liner: Could have been great but ends up choppy
Nona ‘Peaches’ Davenport left everything in Natchez, Mississippi, to move to Chicago. Fifteen years later, she is a professor of African-American Studies. Back home, her sister, Julia, is livid that Nona deserted the family like their mom, Cat. She doesn’t mind using Nona’s lover, Marcus, for her comfort and a better future.
Jasper Davenport, their father, has secrets of his own. But it’s his death that forces Nona to return home and Julia to confront the past. With more secrets, plenty of misunderstandings, and miscommunication, it’s up to the sisters to sort through the mess and rebuild their family. Can they do it?
The story comes in the third-person POV of Nona, Julia, and Jasper.
My Thoughts:
On the surface, the book seems to have what it takes to provide entertainment and some food for thought. However, it is mostly a mash of this and that, with loads of stupid decisions thrown into the mix.
The setting is beautiful, and I loved how Natchez is woven into the narrative. The land, its history, the heat, random rains, architecture, etc., make the book interesting. I always enjoy reading about new locations (to me), so this was a plus.
The characters could have truly shined with their flaws and vulnerabilities. While we get some introspective moments in how Nona and Julia change over the years, the emotional quotient is missing. There’s only so much blaming others and justifying one’s actions a reader can bear.
The book tries to deliver multiple messages – family bonding & relationships on the personal level and the Black history on the macro level. Yet, both seem to be half-baked and don’t blend seamlessly.
I’m not sure why Sanganette was given so much space. I understand her characterization, but it’s not cohesive. Julia’s friendship with her is odd. Also, Sanganette’s character was annoying from start to finish. While I see why her sense of privilege had to come across heavily, it needs to align with the rest of the plot.
The story moves between past and present with no clear indication in some places. Julia and Nona randomly think about past events. It’s easy to miss the shift unless we pay complete attention.
I hate misunderstanding and miscommunication tropes. While they have some benefits, using them for trivial issues can be annoying. Yeah, it does show how something inconsequential can have life-altering consequences. However, it would also be good if the characters just talked to each other. Statements like ‘I know they betrayed me’, ‘everyone knows about this’, etc., become a little too silly as the story progresses.
Then we have the most confusing face-off drama where accusations fly for no reason. TBH, this feels way too dramatic, with zero progress in the plot. For people who are supposed to be in their 30s, the sisters act worse than 8yos. Also, Nona is younger than Julia. I thought it was the opposite given how Julia acted. Not that Nona was any better.
What’s astonishing is how the person responsible for the mess is not even really blamed. We even have a character accepting it as something done to protect them. Ridiculous. The only person with some common sense was Jayden, Julia’s teenage son. Now go figure.
The ending tries to explore how distorted Black history from the region affected Nona when she learned the truth. While I see how it helped her research more to share the actual truth, that Nona could become so freaking insecure and go into a shell for trusting a friend seems unbelievable. She was 6, for goodness sake.
As someone from a colonized country, let me tell you that even today, we have people who believe that Colonization was the biggest blessing to our ancestors. They take pride in being ‘civilized’ and act more white than Whites. Unlearning and relearning are a part of growing up. These aren’t supposed to make one feel insecure about what they accepted as kids.
To summarize, Where Wild Peaches Grow aims high but falls flat in many places. The execution is not strong enough to present the themes cohesively, resulting in a choppy read.
Thank you, NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #WhereWildPeachesGrow
***
P.S.: This is a 2022 release.
***
Unrelated Info: Reading this after an Italian-based book wasn’t a great choice. Nonna from Italy (grandmother) and Nona here (the FMC) made it unintentionally funny. Also, I ended up with two average family dramas back-to-back.
March 15, 2023
I enjoyed the premise and most of Where Wild Peaches Grow, but I had issues with the behavior of the characters that often took me out of the immediacy of the story. One of my least favorite tropes are stories dependent on extreme miscommunications and willful misunderstandings of things that are happening to the characters and it seems that all of the main characters suffered from these; most especially Nona. I had a hard time empathizing with her sense of betrayal and loss because a simple conversation with either her father, her sister, or the man that she was in love with could have cleared everything up from the beginning. I also didn't like that Julia tried to make herself seem a martyr when she could have reached out to her sister as an adult, told her what she was dealing with and why she was feeling the way that she does. We also see pretty quickly that the father, Jasper, wasn't one to make good decisions either. The one thing that I feel I need to mention that was a pretty big negative for me was the character of Sanganette who is a white woman who really and truly believes that the history of the south has been twisted and that slavery wasn't as horrifying as apparently too many people think it was and actively sought to prove her point by using her position as a teacher to manipulate what text books children were going to be taught from. There's no tiptoeing around, justifying, or accepting that kind of racism. Her whole character was jarring and I'm not sure what her purpose in the story was; especially as she is portrayed as Julia's (a Black woman) best friend. There's no accountability, reckoning, or consequences for Sanganette in the story and I just couldn't reconcile that in my mind. For me it would have been better if she wasn't a part of the story at all. I would love to discuss it with someone who reads this because maybe I missed the point of her being a part of the bigger picture.
However, there are several themes in this story that I think would make for good book group discussions. I'm a fan of Cade Bentley writing cozy mysteries as Abby Collette/Vandiver and I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to read her published women's fiction book. Unfortunately, this wasn't my favorite story but I will pick up another book written under the Bentley penname since I otherwise enjoy this author's writing style.
I received an ARC of Where Wild Peaches Grow from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Where you can find me:
•(♥).•*Monica Is Reading*•.(♥)•
Twitter: @monicaisreading
Instagram: @readermonica
However, there are several themes in this story that I think would make for good book group discussions. I'm a fan of Cade Bentley writing cozy mysteries as Abby Collette/Vandiver and I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to read her published women's fiction book. Unfortunately, this wasn't my favorite story but I will pick up another book written under the Bentley penname since I otherwise enjoy this author's writing style.
I received an ARC of Where Wild Peaches Grow from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Where you can find me:
•(♥).•*Monica Is Reading*•.(♥)•
Twitter: @monicaisreading
Instagram: @readermonica
January 30, 2024
This was such a good family drama read.
I think in most families there can be misunderstanding, misinformation and lack of 100% honesty as not to upset others feelings. Coupled with each person’s assumptions of situations or concepts of what they “think” has or hasn’t happened. This can cause all kinds of upsets, breakdowns in relationships and contentious behaviour in some.
It’s what I call ‘family life’.
If left it can lead to all kinds of mistrust.
We see this within this family until.
I loved following along between the family, between the sisters and the Grandmother. A very wise woman.
The men within these pages were variable in temper, personality and degrees of niceness.
Truly loved it and came to love Peaches.
I think in most families there can be misunderstanding, misinformation and lack of 100% honesty as not to upset others feelings. Coupled with each person’s assumptions of situations or concepts of what they “think” has or hasn’t happened. This can cause all kinds of upsets, breakdowns in relationships and contentious behaviour in some.
It’s what I call ‘family life’.
If left it can lead to all kinds of mistrust.
We see this within this family until.
I loved following along between the family, between the sisters and the Grandmother. A very wise woman.
The men within these pages were variable in temper, personality and degrees of niceness.
Truly loved it and came to love Peaches.
May 17, 2022
This is a very generous 3, as there were so many things that did NOT work for this book.
Let's start with what did work. The setting was great! The description of Natchez made me feel like I could really envision it. The hook was good. As much as I found fault with a lot of the book, I kept reading and didn't contemplate not finishing. The writing was strong. While I had to re-read quite a few sentences because they were worded differently than I am used to, the writing was well done.
Now what didn't work for me. The entire book was choppy, disjointed, and didn't flow well. I think the revisionist story about the Devil's Punchbowl should have been a prologue and a stepping stone to show Nona's reasoning for her career in the first place. When the book moves between time periods, there's no clear understanding why that bit is told in the past, but the other bits that took place in the past aren't such as the night that Nona actually left or the time when Julia was in a bad relationship and what happened with Marcus. The characters - pretty much all of them. They are not well fleshed out and are almost caricatures and clichés. The characters of Ruben and Sanganette could have been gotten rid of entirely. Sanganette was horrible, but Julia's best friend? She really preached revisionist slave/confederacy history to a BLACK women in the south and everyone is ok with this? It's just her? WTF? Ruben is a one dimensional, whiney, needy, flaw. He adds nothing to the story except a ride. Nona didn't talk to anyone but her grandmother for two decades? And Mawmaw just never told her anything about her family because....reasons? Not plausible. And Nona cut everyone out of her life, including the man she claimed to love, because of something she perceived? As a 17yo child and she never looked back on that to take some culpability? Jasper....oh, god. All these people coming for a wake of a philandering, manipulating, lying asshole? He gambles his family's money away, is on the run from the law, impregnates another woman and has a child with her that he abandons, threatens his estranged wife to keep her from her children, manipulates said wife into contact with one child at the cost of the other. and refuses to divorce his wife, but does not support her in any way, either. Pretty much a POS. But everyone is ok with this. Now Julia. Good lord. If she's that upset about her sister, reach out. There is nothing in this plot that keeps these people from talking to each other for 20 years. And don't sweep under the rug what a bastard your dad was. Cat? Seriously. She left her children with her MIL in probably the early 90's and let her husband threaten her into staying away for 30 years? Nah. Not plausible. Marcus. Seriously? Pining for one woman for 20 years and never going after her or contacting her? She's a published historian. Google is super easy. I won't even go into the train wreck that is Bisset or Eli. The reason for Nona to have left and stayed away needed to be something MORE than a childish tantrum thrown by a 17yo. Cat should have stayed a mother who disappeared with no more relevance to the story. Ruben and Sanganette should be cut altogether. Too many characters to try to do this story justice. And the bits about the history? I wish it would have been woven into the story instead of randomly being plopped here and there without any real thread connecting it to the rest of the book.
For all of the above faults, I still would recommend the book. It was an interesting ride with many faults, but one I didn't give up on.
Let's start with what did work. The setting was great! The description of Natchez made me feel like I could really envision it. The hook was good. As much as I found fault with a lot of the book, I kept reading and didn't contemplate not finishing. The writing was strong. While I had to re-read quite a few sentences because they were worded differently than I am used to, the writing was well done.
Now what didn't work for me. The entire book was choppy, disjointed, and didn't flow well. I think the revisionist story about the Devil's Punchbowl should have been a prologue and a stepping stone to show Nona's reasoning for her career in the first place. When the book moves between time periods, there's no clear understanding why that bit is told in the past, but the other bits that took place in the past aren't such as the night that Nona actually left or the time when Julia was in a bad relationship and what happened with Marcus. The characters - pretty much all of them. They are not well fleshed out and are almost caricatures and clichés. The characters of Ruben and Sanganette could have been gotten rid of entirely. Sanganette was horrible, but Julia's best friend? She really preached revisionist slave/confederacy history to a BLACK women in the south and everyone is ok with this? It's just her? WTF? Ruben is a one dimensional, whiney, needy, flaw. He adds nothing to the story except a ride. Nona didn't talk to anyone but her grandmother for two decades? And Mawmaw just never told her anything about her family because....reasons? Not plausible. And Nona cut everyone out of her life, including the man she claimed to love, because of something she perceived? As a 17yo child and she never looked back on that to take some culpability? Jasper....oh, god. All these people coming for a wake of a philandering, manipulating, lying asshole? He gambles his family's money away, is on the run from the law, impregnates another woman and has a child with her that he abandons, threatens his estranged wife to keep her from her children, manipulates said wife into contact with one child at the cost of the other. and refuses to divorce his wife, but does not support her in any way, either. Pretty much a POS. But everyone is ok with this. Now Julia. Good lord. If she's that upset about her sister, reach out. There is nothing in this plot that keeps these people from talking to each other for 20 years. And don't sweep under the rug what a bastard your dad was. Cat? Seriously. She left her children with her MIL in probably the early 90's and let her husband threaten her into staying away for 30 years? Nah. Not plausible. Marcus. Seriously? Pining for one woman for 20 years and never going after her or contacting her? She's a published historian. Google is super easy. I won't even go into the train wreck that is Bisset or Eli. The reason for Nona to have left and stayed away needed to be something MORE than a childish tantrum thrown by a 17yo. Cat should have stayed a mother who disappeared with no more relevance to the story. Ruben and Sanganette should be cut altogether. Too many characters to try to do this story justice. And the bits about the history? I wish it would have been woven into the story instead of randomly being plopped here and there without any real thread connecting it to the rest of the book.
For all of the above faults, I still would recommend the book. It was an interesting ride with many faults, but one I didn't give up on.
October 15, 2022
⭐⭐⭐ -- Pretty cover!
This one was just okay for me. There was something about the writing that rubbed me the wrong way. I am also really not a fan of the whole "misunderstanding" trope, especially when a simple conversation would clear the air and there was SO much of that in this book that it got ridiculous. On the positive side, the author did a good job with the setting and descriptions of the different places.
**ARC Vias NetGalley**
This one was just okay for me. There was something about the writing that rubbed me the wrong way. I am also really not a fan of the whole "misunderstanding" trope, especially when a simple conversation would clear the air and there was SO much of that in this book that it got ridiculous. On the positive side, the author did a good job with the setting and descriptions of the different places.
**ARC Vias NetGalley**
February 19, 2023
Review to come! 🍑
February 16, 2025
Secrets, lies and non communication. I enjoyed this story so much. I love books that involve sisters and reconciliation with a whole lotta drama in between!
September 8, 2022
Nona’s emotions are swirling as she returns for her father’s funeral and knowing that it will be impossible not to see Marcus, the man she loved and broke her heart on the night they were to elope. Everyone knew her as Peaches before she left Natchez, Mississippi 15 years ago. Well, Peaches left for Chicago without Marcus and is now Dr. Nona Davenport, professor of African American studies and Eli is the man in her life now.
Nona begins her visit to see her grandmother, Opal Davenport (lovingly called Mamaw) and is instantly enveloped by the sights of peach and magnolia trees, the fragrances of lilacs, the sound of the porch wind chimes, and nosy neighbor Miss Gus is sitting on her porch as though she’s never moved. There are other reunions yet to take place and the funeral.
Long held secrets of the past reveal not only the pain of the past but how they are affecting the present and the path of the future for Nona, sister Julia and nephew Jayden, and Marcus. Through Nona’s friendship with Sanganette and her brother Ruby history of the area and stories passed down through generations unfold as well as the reason and meaning behind the nickname of Peaches.
As I read the novel I found this passage to be most meaningful and evocative…
My sincere thanks to Cade Bentley, and Lake Union Publishing for my complimentary digital copy of this title, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.
#WhereWildPeachesGrow #NetGalley
Nona begins her visit to see her grandmother, Opal Davenport (lovingly called Mamaw) and is instantly enveloped by the sights of peach and magnolia trees, the fragrances of lilacs, the sound of the porch wind chimes, and nosy neighbor Miss Gus is sitting on her porch as though she’s never moved. There are other reunions yet to take place and the funeral.
Long held secrets of the past reveal not only the pain of the past but how they are affecting the present and the path of the future for Nona, sister Julia and nephew Jayden, and Marcus. Through Nona’s friendship with Sanganette and her brother Ruby history of the area and stories passed down through generations unfold as well as the reason and meaning behind the nickname of Peaches.
As I read the novel I found this passage to be most meaningful and evocative…
“The world’s history shouldn’t be taken away or added to at the whims of others who want to tell a different story. Tell the story like it happened. And how do we do that?”This is a compelling story of the relationships within a family, of family history, of southern history, of cultural heritage. It is also a revealing example showing how individuals react differently to the same situations, how reactions are misunderstood and judged unfairly not only by friends but family too. Resonant passages give light to the understanding that we could receive from history if only we shed light on the truth and not the truth some want it to have been.
My sincere thanks to Cade Bentley, and Lake Union Publishing for my complimentary digital copy of this title, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.
#WhereWildPeachesGrow #NetGalley
February 25, 2023
*read for free with Kindle Unlimited and audible audio *
Narration: pretty good
Story 2 stars
characters: 3 stars 🌟
2.5 average?
Story started out okay and I was into it for a good while but it started to go downhill for me when the miscommunication went on for so long. I could see it in the beginning but I was ready to GibbsSmack them and lock em in a room till they played nice.
Julia's "best friend" was very off putting to me and with a certain factor of her, I couldn't comprehend how they were still friends. She did have a nice scene when she was comforting Julia but otherwise I cringed every time she flew into the plot.
I did like the characters but the world and most circumstances around them, not really. Some things just didn't make sense to me.
I wouldn't been as quick to forgive methinks.
Not a bad book but not a great one for this reader.
Narration: pretty good
Story 2 stars
characters: 3 stars 🌟
2.5 average?
Story started out okay and I was into it for a good while but it started to go downhill for me when the miscommunication went on for so long. I could see it in the beginning but I was ready to GibbsSmack them and lock em in a room till they played nice.
Julia's "best friend" was very off putting to me and with a certain factor of her, I couldn't comprehend how they were still friends. She did have a nice scene when she was comforting Julia but otherwise I cringed every time she flew into the plot.
I did like the characters but the world and most circumstances around them, not really. Some things just didn't make sense to me.
I wouldn't been as quick to forgive methinks.
Not a bad book but not a great one for this reader.
March 29, 2022
This is the story of the people who leave and the people who stay behind.
After the death of their father, Nona and Julia are left to face the consequences of their choices and those of the people around them. Nona returns to Natchez, a place she fled for Chicago, where she became a professor of African American studies. Julia never left, and has stewed in resentment about her abandonment. They both think they understand their own histories, but neither of them do.
The story unfolds methodically. Though it is a little confusing in the beginning—Natchez is the sort of place where lots of people get involved—each piece of the puzzle takes its place. As Julia notes, “All families had secrets, and most times they were best if they stayed buried.” And this family has a lot of secrets. For every new truth revealed, the relationships between the characters coil and unfurl, causing hurt and healing in equal measure.
Everyone in this book is connected. There are the sisters, Julia and Nona, their father, their mother, their grandmother. Old boyfriends, neighbours, childhood friends. And the disconnections - like Nona’s boyfriend Eli from the rest of her family - are deliberate and telling.
The depth of the characters is wonderful, with each portrait viewed from a thousand angles, each relationship explained from so many perspectives, so we see what the characters think of themselves and also how they are viewed by others. Sometimes the characters recognise this discord and it inspires an emotional revelation. One character who sees nothing is Sanganette. She is, simply, a piece of work, a white teacher who wants children to learn that the Civil War happened over “states rights.” Throughout the story she centres herself at every opportunity, including when Julia is crying about the death of her father, and she seems to take Nona’s PhD in African American History rather personally. Bentley’s skill is evident here.
My only gripe with this story, and it’s a small one, is that we don’t get the full story of Nona’s nickname, and why her father planted peach trees for her, never letting anyone pick the fruit. I suspect this was a deliberate choice on the part of the author, because there are enough clue to piece together a reasonable guess, but I would have loved to have the full story told.
This is not a book for people who are frustrated by miscommunication. But the miscommunication that drives this story is not a simple plot device, but the complicated reality that people withhold information and tell lies for a multitude of reasons, many of them deeply flawed but also deeply human. Sometimes a hug and an apology is enough to make up for it, and sometimes people are never held accountable for their choices.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
After the death of their father, Nona and Julia are left to face the consequences of their choices and those of the people around them. Nona returns to Natchez, a place she fled for Chicago, where she became a professor of African American studies. Julia never left, and has stewed in resentment about her abandonment. They both think they understand their own histories, but neither of them do.
The story unfolds methodically. Though it is a little confusing in the beginning—Natchez is the sort of place where lots of people get involved—each piece of the puzzle takes its place. As Julia notes, “All families had secrets, and most times they were best if they stayed buried.” And this family has a lot of secrets. For every new truth revealed, the relationships between the characters coil and unfurl, causing hurt and healing in equal measure.
Everyone in this book is connected. There are the sisters, Julia and Nona, their father, their mother, their grandmother. Old boyfriends, neighbours, childhood friends. And the disconnections - like Nona’s boyfriend Eli from the rest of her family - are deliberate and telling.
The depth of the characters is wonderful, with each portrait viewed from a thousand angles, each relationship explained from so many perspectives, so we see what the characters think of themselves and also how they are viewed by others. Sometimes the characters recognise this discord and it inspires an emotional revelation. One character who sees nothing is Sanganette. She is, simply, a piece of work, a white teacher who wants children to learn that the Civil War happened over “states rights.” Throughout the story she centres herself at every opportunity, including when Julia is crying about the death of her father, and she seems to take Nona’s PhD in African American History rather personally. Bentley’s skill is evident here.
My only gripe with this story, and it’s a small one, is that we don’t get the full story of Nona’s nickname, and why her father planted peach trees for her, never letting anyone pick the fruit. I suspect this was a deliberate choice on the part of the author, because there are enough clue to piece together a reasonable guess, but I would have loved to have the full story told.
This is not a book for people who are frustrated by miscommunication. But the miscommunication that drives this story is not a simple plot device, but the complicated reality that people withhold information and tell lies for a multitude of reasons, many of them deeply flawed but also deeply human. Sometimes a hug and an apology is enough to make up for it, and sometimes people are never held accountable for their choices.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
August 26, 2022
While the setting for this one is great and the family dynamics mildly relatable, overall I felt disappointed. It's hard for me to believe that Nona disregarded her family, friends, and where she came from for over two decades based off an assumption. From how the author described her character in the beginning, the total 360 didn't make sense to me.
Also, the lies, secrets and miscommunications we're over the top...at least to me. Possibly because not much is explained and left to the reader's interpretation. I'm not sure this was the right way to go because families, and their dynamics, are so vastly different that not everyone will read this and have the scenarios resonate with them.
Despite the above sentiments, the writing is beautiful and I love the descriptions. As with most drama fiction, this isn't a fast read so I appreciate and enjoy when I can really "see" the setting and feel the emotions. With this, the author does a great job.
Where the Wild Peaches Grow is a family drama that has a great atmosphere and beginning. Overall though it left me a tad bewildered as to the intentions and reasonings of the family members. If this one is on your radar, grab a copy and give it a read. It may be that this fits better in your book house than it did mine.
I received this as part of a book tour (thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for the review copy). All opinions are my own.
Also, the lies, secrets and miscommunications we're over the top...at least to me. Possibly because not much is explained and left to the reader's interpretation. I'm not sure this was the right way to go because families, and their dynamics, are so vastly different that not everyone will read this and have the scenarios resonate with them.
Despite the above sentiments, the writing is beautiful and I love the descriptions. As with most drama fiction, this isn't a fast read so I appreciate and enjoy when I can really "see" the setting and feel the emotions. With this, the author does a great job.
Where the Wild Peaches Grow is a family drama that has a great atmosphere and beginning. Overall though it left me a tad bewildered as to the intentions and reasonings of the family members. If this one is on your radar, grab a copy and give it a read. It may be that this fits better in your book house than it did mine.
I received this as part of a book tour (thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for the review copy). All opinions are my own.
April 28, 2023
Awesome story
A story full of lies, secrets, and nosey people. In the beginning, I was angry with Julia, because of what I assumed she did! Glad the story turned out as it did. Educational, too. I've never heard about the Devils Punchbowl and the story behind it. I am looking for information on that to learn more.
A story full of lies, secrets, and nosey people. In the beginning, I was angry with Julia, because of what I assumed she did! Glad the story turned out as it did. Educational, too. I've never heard about the Devils Punchbowl and the story behind it. I am looking for information on that to learn more.
July 29, 2022
Fifteen years ago, feeling betrayed by her family and abandoned by Marcus, the man she was supposed to marry, Nona “Peaches”Davenport, left her home in Natchez, Mississippi and moved to Chicago, never to return. But when her estranged sister, Julia, calls with news their father died and Nona returns home, the two sisters are forced to unpack secrets and face hard truths about themselves and their family’s past.
Thanks so much to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
If you love a small town family saga with lots of conflict, secrets and misunderstandings, then this book is definitely for you. This one was told from the perspectives of both Nona and Julia, and I felt it perfectly showcased the point that there are two sides to every story 😉 There are also a number of supporting characters, many of whom have secrets woven in with those of Nona and Julia, who I really enjoyed.
This is a debut novel, that although a bit choppy at times, is a beautiful story. I’ve seen some mixed reviews on this one, but I found it super enjoyable and think it could make for an interesting book club choice as there are lots of topics for discussion.
Thanks so much to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
If you love a small town family saga with lots of conflict, secrets and misunderstandings, then this book is definitely for you. This one was told from the perspectives of both Nona and Julia, and I felt it perfectly showcased the point that there are two sides to every story 😉 There are also a number of supporting characters, many of whom have secrets woven in with those of Nona and Julia, who I really enjoyed.
This is a debut novel, that although a bit choppy at times, is a beautiful story. I’ve seen some mixed reviews on this one, but I found it super enjoyable and think it could make for an interesting book club choice as there are lots of topics for discussion.
August 29, 2022
I love this author whatever name she's using. They're always well plotted and compelling. This one is another good book that kept me hooked and moved me.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
October 25, 2023
It was clean, engaging and informative.
Nona reminded me a lot of my brother in the beginning. Then a lot of myself toward the end. The family dynamic of secrets and misunderstandings was familiar and realistic. There were lessons in love, honesty and forgiveness in this well written novel. I thought I was annoyed by the time it took for information to be revealed, in retrospect it was just right. I feel like the ending was a bit rushed, however enough info was given to draw my own creative conclusions.
I liked it. Good read (no challenge spot)
Nona reminded me a lot of my brother in the beginning. Then a lot of myself toward the end. The family dynamic of secrets and misunderstandings was familiar and realistic. There were lessons in love, honesty and forgiveness in this well written novel. I thought I was annoyed by the time it took for information to be revealed, in retrospect it was just right. I feel like the ending was a bit rushed, however enough info was given to draw my own creative conclusions.
I liked it. Good read (no challenge spot)
September 20, 2022
Nona "Peaches" Davenport left Natchez, Mississippi when her life turned upside down. Her family fooled her and the man who had her heart discarded her. She left fifteen years before and never thought she would return but news that her father has passed has her taking this unwanted trip. Upon her return she learns that the man who left her has been taking up with her sister since she's been gone. The sisters must learn to listen to each other to figure out where everything went wrong. Can they find the love they once had for each other as a family or will old.hurts break them further apart. This was an emotional read about family who has broken apart trying to bring the fractured parts back together and heal.
September 7, 2022
In𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙒𝙞𝙡𝙙 𝙋𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙂𝙧𝙤𝙬, Cade Bentley cooks up a dish of sweet, Southern circumstances that need some serious “God Bless It” prayer for two estranged sisters, Nona and Julia, that have open family wounds in need of healing. When an unforeseen event brings Nona back to Natchez, Mississippi, after 15 years of being gone, so many memories and secrets come to the surface that the entire family must deal with it head on. For so long, Nona realizes that without family, she had been “going around the hurt instead of going through it.” 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙒𝙞𝙡𝙙 𝙋𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙂𝙧𝙤𝙬 shows readers the value of family, heritage, love, and forgiveness.
In this novel, Bentley provides lies, secrets, and dramas just as plump, juicy, and delicious as some Georgia peaches. The writing is beautiful as an orchard on a bright, sunny day that God orchestrated Himself. She is able to paint the scene as if you’re right in the middle of Natchez, Mississippi with the beads of sweat dancing down your cheeks on grandma Opal’s front porch. I was clearly immersed and turning the pages with ease and effort simply because of these features. This Southerner puts a stamp of approval on it for sure.
This novel shows the damage that lies and hurt can cause in families and how it can separate and divide generations in ways that impact far beyond our reach. One character mentions that family is a “fleeting thing. You just cant get angry with them and go never making up. You can’t wait until you’ve gotten past what set you off in the first place, because people die.” Do we face what is frustrating us?
Overall, I enjoyed so much of this book. There were some parts of the storyline that were far-fetched and I didn’t like a specific “revisionist” character, but the novel is solidly good and highly recommend. It’s peachy.
In this novel, Bentley provides lies, secrets, and dramas just as plump, juicy, and delicious as some Georgia peaches. The writing is beautiful as an orchard on a bright, sunny day that God orchestrated Himself. She is able to paint the scene as if you’re right in the middle of Natchez, Mississippi with the beads of sweat dancing down your cheeks on grandma Opal’s front porch. I was clearly immersed and turning the pages with ease and effort simply because of these features. This Southerner puts a stamp of approval on it for sure.
This novel shows the damage that lies and hurt can cause in families and how it can separate and divide generations in ways that impact far beyond our reach. One character mentions that family is a “fleeting thing. You just cant get angry with them and go never making up. You can’t wait until you’ve gotten past what set you off in the first place, because people die.” Do we face what is frustrating us?
Overall, I enjoyed so much of this book. There were some parts of the storyline that were far-fetched and I didn’t like a specific “revisionist” character, but the novel is solidly good and highly recommend. It’s peachy.
August 7, 2022
I recieved a copy of this book from @NetgalleyUk in return for an honest review, so here goes...
I always finish a book, whether I like it or not. This story simply left me bewildered. I can't help feeling that the ending was rushed.
From the last few chapters, I felt the author had lost direction. So many important 'conclusions' missed. Without giving too much away, I wanted to know more answers than it gave.
Up until around the middle of the book, I was really enjoying it. It had so much potential, but then it went downhill quickly. Characters who should have, in my opinion, figured prominently were brushed aside, where the ones who added little impact to the story were given word space.
There was so much more I would have liked to have known, so much that needed clarifying and so much wasted potential, I was left feeling frustrated and disappointed.
I always finish a book, whether I like it or not. This story simply left me bewildered. I can't help feeling that the ending was rushed.
From the last few chapters, I felt the author had lost direction. So many important 'conclusions' missed. Without giving too much away, I wanted to know more answers than it gave.
Up until around the middle of the book, I was really enjoying it. It had so much potential, but then it went downhill quickly. Characters who should have, in my opinion, figured prominently were brushed aside, where the ones who added little impact to the story were given word space.
There was so much more I would have liked to have known, so much that needed clarifying and so much wasted potential, I was left feeling frustrated and disappointed.
March 16, 2023
Rambling
The story felt long and dragged out. After all the upset about Cat Montgomery and Jasper's Son I thought They would at least appear for a few chapters. I expected something else I guess when I popped this open.. Opal was messy.. Sanganette?? Ridiculous..
The story felt long and dragged out. After all the upset about Cat Montgomery and Jasper's Son I thought They would at least appear for a few chapters. I expected something else I guess when I popped this open.. Opal was messy.. Sanganette?? Ridiculous..
July 20, 2023
2.5 ⭐️
Family history, secrets and long standing resentments. Is there room for forgiveness?
🍑🍑🍑
Interesting concept, but the story just didn’t work out for me. Wild Peaches wasn’t what I was hoping for. I couldn’t believe how each of these characters let simple misunderstandings and mishaps tear their family apart.
With the gorgeous cover I was hoping to really love it…
Family history, secrets and long standing resentments. Is there room for forgiveness?
🍑🍑🍑
Interesting concept, but the story just didn’t work out for me. Wild Peaches wasn’t what I was hoping for. I couldn’t believe how each of these characters let simple misunderstandings and mishaps tear their family apart.
With the gorgeous cover I was hoping to really love it…
August 27, 2024
I'm sad to say , this was just terrible.
Full of drama for dramas sake. Lies, deceit, miscommunication at every turn and immature main characters.
I hated nearly every character, apart from Jayden and Marcus, and the 2 main female characters, Nona and Julia needed their heads banging together. Everyone had a secret, the big reveal was so deflating and there was a huge disconnect between the history peppered throughout and how it tied into the story.
Just a total miss.
Full of drama for dramas sake. Lies, deceit, miscommunication at every turn and immature main characters.
I hated nearly every character, apart from Jayden and Marcus, and the 2 main female characters, Nona and Julia needed their heads banging together. Everyone had a secret, the big reveal was so deflating and there was a huge disconnect between the history peppered throughout and how it tied into the story.
Just a total miss.
October 13, 2024
Well written story about family and misunderstandings. This story gives a front row seat on how family secrets can cause years of heartbreak. Some chapters were slower than others but overall an enjoyable read.
January 26, 2023
2.5 stars
Thanks NetGalley, the author and publisher for my ARC copy.
I definitely have mixed feelings on this book as I was close to DNFing purely because of the story. I’m giving this 2.5 stars.
Let’s start with the positives:
- I thought the book was well written
- The overall message about making amends and leaving the past behind is something we can all learn
- I was happy that the characters grew at the end
I don’t read blurbs and the cover intrigued me. As I read the opening chapters, I thought to myself, what grudge would you have to not talk to your family for 20 years? It’s got to be something particularly bad right? When it was about halfway through the book (or more), that we find out Nona’s grandmother and Ruby that meddled with Nona’s plan to elope, only for Nona to blame her dad and sister, I was like whaaat? I thought to myself, why wouldn’t Nona just take the time to listen to her dad when he came to Chicago? Why would she not talk to her family because of that? Also, why didn’t she contact Marcus and figure it out when he didn’t meet with her? It just doesn’t make sense. For grandma Opal to not reveal the truth over all the time they talked on the phone… it just all could have been avoided without miscommunication and misunderstanding. I’m not sure I particularly like this trope. It makes the characters come across as immature.
There was too much back and forth of - should I / shouldn’t I talk to her and should I avoid them between the sisters. Some parts of the story felt repeated because of it. The ending felt rushed and it was left open ended in parts. It would have been good for Julia to see Cat and for the sisters to meet their brother Ben together as I think it would have wrapped up the story a little better.
I’m still trying to get over the fact Nona wouldn’t speak to her sister for 20 years because she thought Julia revealed her elopement secret to their dad, which didn’t happen. It seems too far fetched to me. I definitely understand Julia’s point of view of feeling abandoned and that’s why she couldn’t pick up the phone, but because it impacted Nona THAT much, she could have unleashed her anger through a conversation and realised what she knew was wrong.
Thanks NetGalley, the author and publisher for my ARC copy.
I definitely have mixed feelings on this book as I was close to DNFing purely because of the story. I’m giving this 2.5 stars.
Let’s start with the positives:
- I thought the book was well written
- The overall message about making amends and leaving the past behind is something we can all learn
- I was happy that the characters grew at the end
I don’t read blurbs and the cover intrigued me. As I read the opening chapters, I thought to myself, what grudge would you have to not talk to your family for 20 years? It’s got to be something particularly bad right? When it was about halfway through the book (or more), that we find out Nona’s grandmother and Ruby that meddled with Nona’s plan to elope, only for Nona to blame her dad and sister, I was like whaaat? I thought to myself, why wouldn’t Nona just take the time to listen to her dad when he came to Chicago? Why would she not talk to her family because of that? Also, why didn’t she contact Marcus and figure it out when he didn’t meet with her? It just doesn’t make sense. For grandma Opal to not reveal the truth over all the time they talked on the phone… it just all could have been avoided without miscommunication and misunderstanding. I’m not sure I particularly like this trope. It makes the characters come across as immature.
There was too much back and forth of - should I / shouldn’t I talk to her and should I avoid them between the sisters. Some parts of the story felt repeated because of it. The ending felt rushed and it was left open ended in parts. It would have been good for Julia to see Cat and for the sisters to meet their brother Ben together as I think it would have wrapped up the story a little better.
I’m still trying to get over the fact Nona wouldn’t speak to her sister for 20 years because she thought Julia revealed her elopement secret to their dad, which didn’t happen. It seems too far fetched to me. I definitely understand Julia’s point of view of feeling abandoned and that’s why she couldn’t pick up the phone, but because it impacted Nona THAT much, she could have unleashed her anger through a conversation and realised what she knew was wrong.
August 26, 2024
This book was so frustrating. Everyone has a secret, everyone is a liar, a family is torn apart because every single person is allergic to communicating the truth. When it all comes to light everyone is just ok with it all and moves on. There are only two characters in the whole book who aren’t toxic for no reason, and they are very minor characters. This book failed on so many levels. It tried to tie a theme of racism in Mississippi and the history of a town with horrible lore attached to it but this theme wasn’t tied to any of the story and just got dropped in for no reason and was never fully expanded on. Every single character in this book is toxic and it’s impossible to empathize with any of them because there is seemingly no reason for their deceit. This was such a frustrating read.
April 23, 2024
I’m not necessarily one to DNF books this quickly but when there’s colorism and sayings that speak down on one color, I certainly will.
I’ve barely gotten into chapter three and reading lines such as his skin was “black as tar” and she had “good hair” made me roll my eyes and take a deep breath. Who on earth says stuff like that in this day and age? We’re already ridiculed enough for our features, books are supposed to be an escape.
There are way too many good books out there with a good story that don’t rely on speaking down on dark skin Black people and uplifting someone just because their skin color is light. Stuff like that is triggering to myself and millions of other black people across the globe so for that it’s a DNF for me🤷🏿♀️🤷🏿♀️
I’ve barely gotten into chapter three and reading lines such as his skin was “black as tar” and she had “good hair” made me roll my eyes and take a deep breath. Who on earth says stuff like that in this day and age? We’re already ridiculed enough for our features, books are supposed to be an escape.
There are way too many good books out there with a good story that don’t rely on speaking down on dark skin Black people and uplifting someone just because their skin color is light. Stuff like that is triggering to myself and millions of other black people across the globe so for that it’s a DNF for me🤷🏿♀️🤷🏿♀️
February 27, 2024
TW/CW: This book mentions slavery and has a side-character that often speaks negatively about them and the history surrounding them. There are also mentions of abandonment, infidelity, and domestic violence (not detailed).
Where the Wild Peaches Grow is a novel about a family, history, truth and forgiveness. We are introduced to the lives of Nona and Julia, two sisters who grew up in the South and how their bond is catapulted due to their choices in life. Each character has their pro and cons - let's start with that. We dive into each of their lives and are given a little history the further we read.
I absolutely loved how this book brings about the impact of parental abandonment in more ways than one. How it affects each character and their day-to-day lives. Nona left. Julia stayed. Both of them had their own reasons for making the decisions they did, and along the way piece-by-piece we unravel their trauma, fears, and doubt. In the end we see forgiveness, understanding, and healing.
With Julia we see how the fear of being abandoned by her mother and sister leads her to becoming fearful of her son leaving or being taken away from her. Her son doesn't understand why she reacts the way she does, because he's often left in the dark about his mother's feelings and upbringing. In my opinion, if it hadn't been for Marcus in both of their lives I believe the mother-son relationship would possibly be strained.
Outside of the characters this book also discusses the topic of false information. How pieces of history can get tangled in lies or stereotypes. Nona is dead-set on making the truth about her community known. She needs the history of what happened to be true and talked about - but not everyone is happy about it.
At first, I did not understand Sanganette’s presence in the book. I was very much rolling my eyes every time she started blabbering about whatever she thought. Her personality and lack of braincells when it comes to what comes out of her mouth when she refers to the sisters or their community just pissed me off each and every time. In the end though, I see the connection between Peaches (the tree) and Sanganette’s, and Nona.
Overall, outside of Sanganette, I loved the book! I do suggest reading it, whether alone or with your book club peeps! :)
(Yes, it is a clean read. It doesn't have any adult scenes however there is talk about Julia's relationship with Marcus at one point and it does mention sex, but it's not graphic.)
The loss of family can do peculiar things to people.
Where the Wild Peaches Grow is a novel about a family, history, truth and forgiveness. We are introduced to the lives of Nona and Julia, two sisters who grew up in the South and how their bond is catapulted due to their choices in life. Each character has their pro and cons - let's start with that. We dive into each of their lives and are given a little history the further we read.
“It’s a good thing to know who you are and where you come from. It helps you to see who you are but also who you shouldn’t be.”
I absolutely loved how this book brings about the impact of parental abandonment in more ways than one. How it affects each character and their day-to-day lives. Nona left. Julia stayed. Both of them had their own reasons for making the decisions they did, and along the way piece-by-piece we unravel their trauma, fears, and doubt. In the end we see forgiveness, understanding, and healing.
The loss of a mother early in life affects people differently than it does when a child grows up with one.
With Julia we see how the fear of being abandoned by her mother and sister leads her to becoming fearful of her son leaving or being taken away from her. Her son doesn't understand why she reacts the way she does, because he's often left in the dark about his mother's feelings and upbringing. In my opinion, if it hadn't been for Marcus in both of their lives I believe the mother-son relationship would possibly be strained.
Outside of the characters this book also discusses the topic of false information. How pieces of history can get tangled in lies or stereotypes. Nona is dead-set on making the truth about her community known. She needs the history of what happened to be true and talked about - but not everyone is happy about it.
The world’s history shouldn’t be taken away or added to at the whims of others who want to tell a different story. Tell the story like it happened.
At first, I did not understand Sanganette’s presence in the book. I was very much rolling my eyes every time she started blabbering about whatever she thought. Her personality and lack of braincells when it comes to what comes out of her mouth when she refers to the sisters or their community just pissed me off each and every time. In the end though, I see the connection between Peaches (the tree) and Sanganette’s, and Nona.
Overall, outside of Sanganette, I loved the book! I do suggest reading it, whether alone or with your book club peeps! :)
(Yes, it is a clean read. It doesn't have any adult scenes however there is talk about Julia's relationship with Marcus at one point and it does mention sex, but it's not graphic.)
October 7, 2023
I really thought this book had a lot of potential. The storyline was compelling enough - a death in the family brings a long lost sister home to bury her father and confront her past. And the cover is really beautiful. But for me, the story fell flat and could’ve benefited from a few tweaks in the editing.
I thought the truth of what separated the sisters (Nona/Peaches and Julia) was a little convoluted and it became even murkier with the part about the half-brother (Benjamin), the boyfriend (Besset) and the best friend (Rudy). Though I do feel Rudy was important to the story, he came across as two-dimensional. But what was the point of the brother and the boyfriend? They could’ve been removed and the story wouldn’t have changed at all. These characters were all underutilized in my opinion.
Another issue I had was with the addition of Jaden’s father(s). The whole background and current storyline for him just didn’t feel necessary or believable.
I also wish more attention had been paid to the devils punch bowl aspect. It felt like an afterthought and I think it should’ve played a much bigger role in the story. But to be honest, unless much of the book was cut (which would’ve been fine), I’m not sure I would’ve made it through. The book was a bit too lengthy for what it covered. I think the main points of the story could’ve been covered in at least 75 less pages.
I wish I would’ve known that the author used a pen name and is also Abby Collete and Abby Vandiver. Somehow I missed this and I think it would’ve helped me go into the book with the right expectations and understanding of writing style. Still, I’d give the book 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
I thought the truth of what separated the sisters (Nona/Peaches and Julia) was a little convoluted and it became even murkier with the part about the half-brother (Benjamin), the boyfriend (Besset) and the best friend (Rudy). Though I do feel Rudy was important to the story, he came across as two-dimensional. But what was the point of the brother and the boyfriend? They could’ve been removed and the story wouldn’t have changed at all. These characters were all underutilized in my opinion.
Another issue I had was with the addition of Jaden’s father(s). The whole background and current storyline for him just didn’t feel necessary or believable.
I also wish more attention had been paid to the devils punch bowl aspect. It felt like an afterthought and I think it should’ve played a much bigger role in the story. But to be honest, unless much of the book was cut (which would’ve been fine), I’m not sure I would’ve made it through. The book was a bit too lengthy for what it covered. I think the main points of the story could’ve been covered in at least 75 less pages.
I wish I would’ve known that the author used a pen name and is also Abby Collete and Abby Vandiver. Somehow I missed this and I think it would’ve helped me go into the book with the right expectations and understanding of writing style. Still, I’d give the book 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
April 15, 2023
Give me a good, southern family saga any day. Where Wild Peaches Grow follows the lives of Julia and Nona, who have been estranged for 20 years and reunite after their father's death. Taking place in Natchez, Mississippi, the book also deals with the history of the area and brings to light revisionist history. There were characters I loved and characters whom I strongly disliked. Props to Julia and Nona for dealing with certain people with grace the way that they did. I generally dislike books with a miscommunication trope when an honest, five minute conversation could have prevented a world of hurt, but in this case, it works. I think it works because it is a family saga, and more times that not family hurt comes from miscommunication or the unwillingness to listen when the other tries to explain. I wanted more from the ending and some time with some characters that we didn't really get to know.
February 16, 2024
I did not care for this book.
It felt wordy and like there was so much more explanation than was necessary. When it finally got to the climax of what everyone was mad about it felt underwhelming.
Over all the book was okay and the message was loud and clear!
It just wasn't my style.
It felt wordy and like there was so much more explanation than was necessary. When it finally got to the climax of what everyone was mad about it felt underwhelming.
Over all the book was okay and the message was loud and clear!
It just wasn't my style.
Read
April 9, 2025A soft DNF. This book isn’t pulling me in the way that I would like it to so it’s time to push it to the side🌝
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