Read the full review here.

‘It’s a rare example of scholarly rigour paired with storytelling flair.  As a work of garden history, it is valuable; as a piece of social history, it is illuminating’

Read the full review here.

“Gleeson’s account contains fascinating layers of social history, emphasising the close attachment of the wealthy “settlers” to the British upper class way of life.”

“This is not a coffee table book, but a study with a thesis, supported by reproduced garden plans, photographs of families, houses and their gardens.  It is supported by a rich bibliography, footnotes and an invaluable index.”

“Gleeson has done a fine job of tying the history of Buxton gardens together with that of New Zealand gardening overall”.

“Adding to the appeal and clarity of the book are fascinating vignettes that the author has placed throughout.”

“By bringing him [Buxton], his gardens and their custodians into the spotlight, Gleeson has made a valuable contribution to chronicling the country’s garden history.”

Read the full review here.

“If garden history is more your go, there’s a very interesting gardening book newly arrived in the bookshops – Clare Gleeson’s wonderful exploration of Alfred Buxton’s gardens, and the women who loved them, called The Fairer Side of Buxton.”

“The book is a great read for anyone interested in garden history, and includes some Wairarapa gardens, including Papatahi and Homewood.”

Read the full review here.

“In goldilocks fashion this book is neither too big nor small. Thank goodness we have writers like Clare Gleeson who have the curiosity, combined with research skills, writing talent and patience to capture social histories such as this one. As keen gardeners, you should thoroughly enjoy her book.”

Read the full review here.

“The well-researched book is the history of these women and their gardens. They were a diverse lot, monied with a desire for a Buxton Garden. Their gardens all featured Buxton’s signatures.”

“The book is well written, easy to read and filled with photos, old and new, with a rich history of the women and their times. The book covers social and gardening history, a history of the times, the gardens and the people involved. There are stories about the families who built the gardens and those who later enjoyed living in them. It is also illustrated with Buxton’s designs.”