Not-So-New: The Garden Plot by Marty Wingate

Written By Maria (Angie) B.

One thing I’ve noticed about Bookstagram and BookTok is that they tend to focus mostly on new releases—current or upcoming titles. Often, it feels like the same few books are being reviewed over and over again. But there are so many amazing books out there that are more than two years old, and many of them never got their chance in the spotlight. Some didn’t have the marketing push behind them, and others have simply faded from memory.

That’s why I’m starting a new blog series called Not-So-New, where I’ll be spotlighting and sharing reviews of books that aren’t brand new but are still worth reading. Some will be fantastic, some maybe not so much—but either way, I’ll share honestly so you can make a more informed choice. I hope you’ll join me on this journey of rediscovering hidden gems! And to kick things off, let me introduce you to the first book I am reviewing for this series. ‘The Garden Plot’ by Marty Wingate was originally published in 2014, but was reprinted with the cover below in 2023.

🌿 At a Glance

  • Title: The Garden Plot

  • Author: Mary Wingate

  • Series: Potting Shed Mysteries, Book #1

  • Genre: Cozy Mystery

  • Setting: English countryside

  • Themes: Gardening, history, slow-burn romance, small-town charm

  • What I Loved:

    • Rich garden details woven into the mystery

    • A clever, well-paced plot with satisfying twists

    • Colorful cast of characters

    • A sweet, slow-simmer romance that felt natural and earned

  • Read If You Enjoy:

    • Cozy mysteries with a strong sense of place

    • Garden or nature-themed fiction

    • Gentle but intriguing mysteries with heart

So, let’s dive in. If you give me a cozy mystery with a garden theme, I’m already halfway sold. Add in an intriguing central puzzle, a sprinkle of history, and a perfectly unforced slow-burn romance, and I’m completely hooked. The Garden Plot by Marty Wingate had all of that and more—and it turned out to be one of those books I couldn’t wait to get back to every time I had to put it down.

Plot: The story follows Pru Clarke, an American gardener who has made her home in England. While working on a garden restoration project, she discovers a potential historical treasure buried beneath the soil. What begins as a gardener’s curiosity quickly unravels into a full-fledged mystery that draws her into the world of archeology, secrets, and danger. I loved how the mystery unfolded with just the right balance of suspense and gentleness—it kept me guessing until the end, but never lost that cozy, comforting tone that makes this genre so enjoyable.

One of my favorite aspects of this book was its strong garden theme. The author weaves in details about plants, landscapes, and the art of restoration so seamlessly that I often felt like I was right there alongside Pru, digging into the earth or walking through an English country garden. As a gardener myself, that layer made the story extra delightful.

Beyond the setting, the writing itself was engaging and easy to sink into. The pacing was spot-on, with enough twists and turns to keep the mystery alive without feeling rushed. The supporting cast of characters added depth and warmth to the story, and—oh my—the romance! It was slow-building, tender, and never overshadowed the central mystery. Instead, it felt like a natural bloom within the larger story, making it all the more satisfying.

The Garden Plot is a wonderful start to a series (yes, it’s book one!), and I’m already looking forward to spending more time with Pru and her world. If you enjoy cozy mysteries with smart storytelling, endearing characters, and a setting that feels like a garden escape, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.

Book Link-Ups I Enjoy Joining

Maria (Angie) B. https://angiebaer.com
Next

Audiobook Monday: Nora Robert’s ‘Inheritance’ (Lost Bride Trilogy Book 1)