In Allen's debut novel we meet the Waverly sisters Claire and Sydney in their hometown of Bascom, NC. The Waverly family has lived in Bascom for generations and their unusual garden is the stuff of legends in the area. The Waverlys and their garden have somewhat of a curious reputation due to their garden and its plants that have special powers.
Claire Waverly has turned her unique and magical garden into a successful catering business. Sydney who left Bascom as soon as she graduated from high school has just returned to Waverly with her 5 year old daughter and a secret.
Claire and Sydney had never been close. Sydney's return puts Claire's quiet, safe and orderly life into a spin. As they get reacquainted, the sisters learn about themselves, each other and how misconceptions and miscommunication have played huge parts in their lives and relationship with each other.
An excellent first novel with rich characters and relationships. Don't over look Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen.