In the Garden of Iden

In a world where technology and time travel intertwine, a young woman named Mendoza finds herself navigating a complex tapestry of history and human endeavor. As a member of the notorious Company, she is tasked with preserving lost cultures and artifacts through her involvement in a unique horticultural project set in the lush gardens of sixteenth-century England.

Mendoza, however, is not an ordinary botanist; she is a cyborg, crafted to withstand the ravages of time and to aid in the Company’s elusive objectives. Her journey is not solely about preserving flora but also about discovering her own humanity amidst the cold efficiency of her makers. She grapples with her identity and the moral implications of playing a role in such a grand, yet ethically intricate, scheme.

As she engages with the historical figures and landscapes around her, her relationships deepen, giving rise to moments of warmth and tension. The vibrant characters challenge Mendoza's perceptions and beliefs, forcing her to confront the essence of what it means to be human, even when augmented with artificial enhancements.

Kage Baker's novel blends rich historical detail with speculative science fiction, creating a lush narrative that draws readers into a beautifully rendered world where love, loyalty, and sacrifice intertwine, leaving them yearning for the next chapter in Mendoza's extraordinary journey.