The Walled Garden

The author of Alexa's Vineyard turns out a satisfying if somewhat formulaic romance with this tale of an English woman's struggles after her wealthy husband is sent to jail for white-collar crimes. Alone and almost penniless, Diana Neville discovers previously unknown inner resources when she retreats to the small Yorkshire village where an aunt has conveniently bequeathed to her a unique house called Gilbert's Tower. Inspired by its almost magical walled garden, Diana starts an upscale business in organic fruits and vegetables. Although her progress is not always smooth, she eventually prospers, at the same time establishing a rewarding relationship with her daughter Yolanda. The congenial atmosphere includes a kindly couple that helps tend the house, a fiance for Yolanda and the fiance's handsome, wealthy father. But when her husband--selfish and undeserving--is released from prison, Diana's misguided loyalty threatens to destroy everything she has so effortfully created. Genre fans can count on a happily-ever-after ending in which love and goodness conquer all. (July)