Where Wild Peaches Grow: two sisters reunite after their father's death and confront the past

Where Wild Peaches Grow by Cade Bentley is a story of family, cultural heritage and forgiveness. Nona “Peaches” Davenport left her home in Natchez, Mississippi fifteen years ago when she was betrayed by her family. She built a new life and became a professor of African American studies in Chicago. When the news of her father’s death reaches her, Nona must return home, a place she tried to forget. Julia Curtis has never forgiven her sister for leaving the family. However, Julia was determined to move forward as she focused on taking care of their father and grandmother. Julia now has a child and a career. When Nona returns to Natchez, their reunion is tenuous but soon they learn family secrets and everything they thought they knew could finally heal their relationship or tear them apart for good. 

Described as deeply emotional, I was expecting a family drama while dealing with grief and past hurts. However, I got a story about two sisters who were incredibly immature, especially Julia. I did not connect with either sister. Lies, miscommunication and drama for drama’s sake. Everyone had a secret of some type and when the big daddy secret was revealed, it was a major let down. The author tried to link racism and the town’s lore which didn’t quite connect for me. I kept asking “why?” for so many revelations and never got any answers, at least one I thought was satisfying. The story was a “short read” at 297  pages; however, it did not feel like it. It was confusing with too much history and not enough plot. Overall, I did not enjoy this story. I do not recommend Where Wild Peaches Grow. 

Where Wild Peaches Grow is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook