What happens with: The Best of Intentions by Caroline Scott

#TheBestofIntentions #NetGalley

I was drawn to this book by the cover and the description. I stayed because it was an enjoyable historical fiction read that has a cast full of interesting characters, all of whom are well drawn.

The story takes place in the inter-war years when WWI was remembered and the circumstances that will lead to WWII are beginning to rear their head. Some strict societal rules exist still and, because of this, gardener, Robert Bardsley had to leave his job and a woman he loved. He lands at Anderby where he will try to restore the gardens. At Anderby, Robert (and the reader) will meet a range of characters including Anderby’s owner who got her money from industry, and her husband, who has a flirtatious eye. Some of the others are a teacher, an upper class woman on the outs with her family and a musician to name a few. They endeavor to live together on what seems like a commune.

What happens to these people and what happens when there is an outside challenge will keep readers following along. This is a nice book and one that it is easy to recommend. Spend a fictional year with these characters.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster U.K. for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 16 September 2025

Also by Caroline Scott:

What is in: Good Taste (Caroline Scott)