5-STAR REVIEW: THE LOST GARDEN by Angela Petch

Book Reviews Historical Fiction Women's Fiction

The Description

Publication Date: September 11, 2025

It hides a family secret that could change the course of the war.

Italy, 1930s. Tina lives in the crumbling castle of Montesecco with only her strict father and their maid, Allegra, for company. She’s never been allowed to ask questions about her mother, who died in childbirth. But the day Tina discovers a hidden, crumbling door, everything changes.

Inside is an overgrown garden. Ivy and roses adorn the stone walls. Fresh water springs from a fountain and the scent of wild herbs fills the air. How did she never know this beautiful place existed? Excitedly begging Allegra for answers, the elderly woman’s face turns pale. ‘You must never mention this to your father. It’s not safe. You’ve found your mamma’s garden.’

The Count believes Tina’s mother died because of the garden: but Allegra refuses to say more. Certain she can feel her mother watching over her, Tina secretly tends to the garden herself. And when war breaks out, Tina’s encounters with local resistance fighters mean the garden becomes a place of refuge, a place of hope – and a place of great danger when Tina must prove where her loyalties lie once and for all…Will Tina ever discover the truth about her mother? Or was the garden, with all its secrets, never meant to be disturbed?

An absolutely breathtaking and stunning historical novel about the incredible risks people took in wartime, family secrets, loss and love. Perfect for fans of Fiona Valpy and Santa Montefiore.

The Review

When Tina stumbles upon a hidden door next to the castle’s wall, curiosity leads her to an incredible discovery.

Author Angela Petch uses a castle in Montesecco as the setting for a fascinating historical fiction novel in The Lost Garden.

Pre-World War II comes alive as Contessina Ernestina di Montesecco secretly tends to the overgrown garden that has ties to her deceased mother. The rich details sweep readers to the castle and the small Italian town of Sant’Agnese.

The author gifts Tina with a strong spirit and a sense of empathy. In spite of her father’s political connections, her sympathy toward resistance fighters evolves from thoughts into bold yet dangerous actions.

The story unfolds with glimpses of the past coming from a journal that Tina discovers belonged to her late mother. The wisdom contained in the pages sparks Tina’s determination to write her own future.

The Lost Garden delivers a story centered around the discovery of family secrets. Buy Links

About The Author

Angela Petch is an award winning writer of fiction – and the occasional poem.

Every summer she moves to Tuscany for six months where her and her husband own a renovated watermill which they let out. When not exploring their unspoilt corner of the Apennines, Angela disappears to her writing desk at the top of her converted stable.

In her Italian handbag or hiking rucksack she always makes sure to store a notebook and pen to jot down ideas.

The winter months are spent in Sussex where most of her family live. When she’s not helping out with grandchildren, she catches up with writer friends.