Ok first this book is beautiful I want a physical copy just for my shelf. Second the book in general is a work of art. I love when a book can bring out every emotion for me and that's what this did. I love books that also go into family history and the past.

This book is a gripping and emotionally charged read that pulled me in right from the start. The story follows Camilla, a woman who’s spent her life trying to escape a chaotic, love-filled childhood, seeking perfection in her adult life. But when a cancer diagnosis forces her to revisit her past, she’s confronted with the painful choices and experiences that shaped who she’s become.
At first, I struggled to empathize with Camilla's grandmother, Velma. Her selfishness and harsh treatment of Maggie, made her difficult to like. However, as the story unfolded, I began to understand the depth of Velma’s character and how her actions tied into the larger themes of motherhood, regret, and the need for reconciliation.
What really resonated with me was the emotional depth of the novel, as Camilla comes to terms with the complicated realities of love, loss, and mortality. The story serves as a powerful reminder of how our pasts shape the decisions we make and how far we’re willing to go for those we love—sometimes requiring us to face painful truths. By the end, I found myself reflecting on the choices we all must make in our own journeys toward healing.

Thanks to Netgalley and PENGUIN GROUP Dutton | Plume for the ARC and opportunity to provide an honest review.

Camilla’s Roses by Bernice L. McFadden is an emotional and deeply affecting story that lingers long after you turn the final page. McFadden’s portrayal of Camilla, a woman shaped by a turbulent past and an uncertain present, is masterful. Camilla’s journey through pain, self-discovery, and reconciliation is heartbreaking and inspiring, making her a protagonist you cannot help but root for.

McFadden creates a vivid and poignant narrative, seamlessly weaving Camilla’s past and present. The exploration of familial love, loss, and the scars of unspoken truths is handled with sensitivity and grace, and the story’s reflections on mortality are universal and powerful.

However, while the writing is undeniably beautiful, there were moments when the pacing felt uneven, particularly in the transitions between Camilla’s memories and her present-day struggles. Some sections felt slightly rushed, leaving me wishing for more time to explore the nuances of her relationships, especially with her daughter.

Despite this minor flaw, Camilla’s Roses is a deeply moving and thought-provoking. It reminds us of the power of love, the necessity of facing our past, and the beauty of forgiveness and resilience. It is highly recommended for readers who enjoy character-driven stories with profound emotional depth.

*Camilla's Roses* by Bernice L. McFadden is a captivating and heartfelt novel that gently pulls readers into a world of emotional complexity, family secrets, and profound self-discovery. The story follows Camilla, a woman searching for healing and understanding in the aftermath of a tumultuous childhood, marked by a deep sense of loss and abandonment.

McFadden's writing is deeply empathetic, painting her characters with a rich and compassionate brush. Camilla’s journey is both personal and universal, as she grapples with forgiveness—toward others and herself. The prose flows effortlessly, weaving together themes of resilience, the power of love, and the unbreakable bond between mother and child. The narrative takes readers through moments of pain and joy, offering a candid exploration of the human experience. The characters are wonderfully complex and authentic, and McFadden does an exceptional job of making them relatable. The vivid descriptions of the environments and the subtle nuances of the emotional landscape make *Camilla's Roses* a novel that lingers long after the last page is turned. The way McFadden tackles difficult topics, including generational trauma and reconciliation, without ever feeling preachy or forced, is a testament to her storytelling prowess. In short, *Camilla’s Roses* is a beautifully written story about healing, hope, and the power of love to transform lives. It’s a book that invites readers to reflect on their own relationships and the complexities of their own pasts, while reminding them that growth is always possible. For anyone looking for a deeply moving and redemptive read, this novel is a must.

A timeless story reimagined! Camilla’s Rose beautifully weaves themes of love, resilience, and rediscovery. The rich character development and vivid descriptions of the countryside make it an immersive read. Highlights include Camilla’s journey of self-discovery, the heartwarming family dynamics, and a twist that keeps you hooked till the end. Perfect for fans of emotional, character-driven tales!