Growing Season By Seni Glaister

‘Growing Season’ is the latest book by Seni Glaister.

Danny is riddled with anxiety. But he wants to be strong for his wife Sam. She’s been through so much already. If only he had someone to talk to. Sam is facing a very different future to the one she expected. She’s ready to move on, yet other people won’t let her. If only she had someone to talk to. Their new neighbour Diana is hiding from her past. She wanted a new life. Now she’s got it she feels angry and alone. If only she had someone to talk to. Each of them is hiding their pain. Each of them needs to heal. But only when they learn to let each other in will they finally be able to grow.

I’ve spent the last few days listening to ‘Growing Season’ and it’s a wonderful story to get absorbed in.

The story is seen through the narrative of Sam and Danny who have left the bright lights of London for the countryside. Whilst Sam has adapted naturally to the slower pace of life, Danny has found it a bit more difficult returning to the city each day for work as a reminder of their old lives. Whilst Danny works, Sam has become friends with Diana, the so called witch of the woods that she’s warned to stay away from but instead she’s drawn to her reclusive behaviour and passion for nature.

I loved this story and the characters that were in it. The story is written as though the couple have left London for a new life, but it’s a more like a escape for Sam. Away from the prying eyes of society and why they haven’t settled down with children but the pressure and accusations follow her as the neighbours want to know her story. Although the neighbours are kind with good intentions and curiosity, it’s sad reading as Sam has to explain her situation, whilst try to justify her frustration and upset at being unable to be a mother. Danny wants more than anything to make Sam happy but has let his past hold him back and needs the courage to get over fears and put old ghosts to rest.

Sam finds solace in Diana, a fellow outsider who hasn’t conformed to the expected status of a woman and they embark on a friendship, both bonding over their passion of nature. As the story progresses, we see Sam blossom, not only literally with her new home and garden but metaphorically in her mindset and lifestyle.

I loved this book, the characters are relatable, from the outspoken and gruff Diana who resides in the woods away from prying eyes to Danny and Sam who are working hard to make thief relationship work in a new town.

A story of new beginnings and friendships, this book highlights the stigma associated with childless women and their silent struggle and pressures of society. Wittily written and packed with plenty of gardening tips and information, ‘Growing Season’ is a poignant story about hope and grief.

You can buy ‘Growing Season’ from Amazon and is available to buy from good bookshops.