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Of Earthly Delights by Goldy Moldavsky is a simmering YA gothic romantic horror. The horror part is not pronounced, but it is there in the undercurrents. It has family secrets, mysterious houses and gardens (with a hedge maze!), and lingering unease that permeates everything the moment that Rose and Hart have their “meet cute” in a convenience store.

This is a story that is less about a secret garden and more about a garden full of secrets. A family full of secrets. From the beginning pages there is an undercurrent of unease, a feeling that something is not quite right, and it builds until everything is exposed to the roots.

Rose and her father move to Connecticut after her parents divorce. She is not happy, but quickly finds friendship in Lowell, and curiosity in Hart. Hart Hargrove, who with his sister Heather are keepers of the Hargrove legacy. Full of garden parties and exclusive invites that are whispered about by everyone. Rose and Hart form a friendship, a budding love. Heather keeps cryptically trying to push Rose away from Hart.

As their relationship blooms, Rose notices more and more moments from Heather and Lowell and the Hargrove’s garden that don’t quite add up. And the more she explores, the more her relationship with Hart gets exposed.

I loved the blanket of tension that enveloped this entire book. And when we finally get all the answers, we are only left with more questions. This is a story about love and obsession and understanding how to make wishes that have a chance of coming true. But it is also a story that reminds us that the universe seeks balance. And that balance can come at a cost that might be steep to pay.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own. Publication date is May 13th, 2025.