The Alchemy of Flowers — Laura Resau

A woman takes a job at a secretive French garden to avoid reminders of children; there she meets a mysterious girl needing help. This debut adult novel blends the charm of The Secret Garden and magic realism of Where the Forest Meets the Stars.

"Here lie the bones of those who broke the rules . . ."

There are many rules those who wish to live and work behind the mysterious walled gardens of Le Château du Paradis must follow. One must not gossip. One must not leave their room during dusk.

And most importantly for the newest gardener, Eloise Bourne, children are forbidden.

Although she's locked inside the castle grounds and subjected to strange rules, Eloise's new home enchants her with otherworldly lodging and magical flowers. Best of all, her co-workers--who are also retreating from the world--spark her to heal both body and soul. And she feels surprisingly drawn to the intriguing handyman, Raphaël.

But when she starts glimpsing a mysterious child in the trees, she reels. Is this a human girl? Or a woodsprite? Is it her imagination, or is this place truly enchanted?

As the summer unfolds, Eloise begins to fear the child is in danger. It's not until she breaks the rules and risks her heart that Paradise becomes a prison. Eloise must unearth the gardens' secrets, fight for her newfound family, and ultimately, claim a second chance at happiness.