The Gardens of Delight brochure promises the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful and enchanting gardens in the Lake Como area of Italy. For Lucy Gray, assistant manager at Meadowlands Garden Centre, the chance to go to Italy offers more than just gardens. Lake Como is where her father lives and the last time she saw him she was just a teenager. Helen Madison-Tyler and her wealthy husband have moved into the Old Rectory in Swanmere. With her husband spending so much time away, Helen throws herself into caring for the garden that was once the pride and joy of previous owner, Alice Wykeham, the renowned gardening expert. But Helen needs help, and friends, so decides to take the plunge and join the local Garden Club. Widow Conrad Truman isn't the least bit interested in gardening. His life revolves around work and humouring Mac, his curmudgeonly elderly uncle who lives with him, and who has expressed a desire to go on the Gardens of Delight tour. But only if Conrad will accompany him. 'Anything for a peaceful life,' he concedes. But a peaceful life is the last thing any of them are in for...