A review by shazov
The Gardener and the Marine by RJ Scott

4.0

This was first published in weekly instalments in the author's newsletters. Even though I receive the newsletters, I didn't read this one until now. I'm just not one to have to wait for however long before I can keep reading, lol. I like to be able to stop when it suits me, and start and finish one book at a time. However, it was worth the wait.

There is a lot going on in this book. Harrison is a Marine with a lot of issues, some physically, but mostly PTSD related. Toby is a young man with a vision to helping others using his horticultural skills. As with the other books in this series, there is more than just a hint of insta-love, but funnily enough it's also a slow-burn book. These two have a lot of issues to work through and challenges to overcome, but R.J. Scott really comes to the table with these. It could have become a heavy and angst-ridden book, however due to the authors skill there is a sweetness and tenderness to it that makes it a joy to read.

Speaking of series, I think this is one of those that really work best if you've read the previous books. There is so much interaction with characters from these books that you might get somewhat lost, and I feel it would definitely make the story a lot harder to follow if you haven't read them in order.