Gardens of Delight — Erica James

A gorgeous, heart-warming tale set among the gardens of Italy The Gardens of Delight brochure promises the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful gardens in the Lake Como area of Italy. For Lucy, the chance to go to Italy offers more than just gardens, as Lake Como is where her father lives and the last time she saw him was when she was just a teenager. Recently married Helen and her wealthy husband have just moved into the Old Rectory. With her husband spending so much time away from home, Helen throws herself into caring for the garden. But Helen needs help--and friends--and so she decides to take the plunge and join the local Garden Club. Conrad isn't the least bit interested in gardening. Widowed for five years, his life revolves around work and humoring Mac, his elderly uncle who lives with him, and who has expressed a desire to go on the Gardens of Delight tour. Reluctantly, Conrad agrees to accompany him. "Anything for a peaceful life," he concedes--but a peaceful life is the last thing any of them are in for.

Winner of the Romantic Novel of the Year Award (2006) from the Romantic Novelists' Association.