Flowers of the Gods is the first book in The Wildflower Trilogy and is a beautiful little story that is set at the very start of time when Mother Nature plants wildflowers across the surface of the planet. It also includes both Greek and Roman gods and their role in the original creation of the world. Essentially it is a retelling of some of the ancient myths but with a modern twist.

When I first received this series I was a little curious, the idea of combining wildflowers with myths and legends and constellations seemed rather bizarre and I wondered how the author was going to handle it. The answer is with a grace and charm that is rare in modern writing. There is nothing aggressive or difficult about this book. It has been a positive joy to read and, as a result, was extremely refreshing.

The writing style is thoroughly entertaining and amusing in parts and it is this combination of a charming storyline, a soft touch to the writing and gentle humour that makes this so appealing.

I have to apologise, this is not going to be the longest review in the world but you must bear in mind that this isn't the longest book in the world either. Still, they always say good things come in small packages don't they?

Synopsis
Our story starts at the very beginning of time with a dark planet, Earth, wandering through the constellations in our night sky.

Mother Nature creates the trees and wildflowers and places the Golden Bluebell, a flower that holds the power of nature and the power of time to control the four seasons, at a secret location on top of a wooded hill in the heart of England.

Next we meet Greek and Roman gods, goddesses and monsters. The reader enters their world of rivalry and revenge and ancient legends are reinvigorated and given a new and very humorous twist. Athena transforms the previously beautiful Medusa into a gorgon, thus laying the foundation for our story. Good versus Evil.

In her rage at being made into a monster, Medusa comes to bitterly loath anything beautiful, happy or good. She determines to destroy the Golden Bluebell. If she succeeds, everything living thing on Earth will die. Medusa's plan is to sow seeds of evil; plants that blend in with wildflowers but which, on her command, transform into deadly creatures.

In Flowers of the Gods, Hayward has created a fantastical alternate universe and combined classical myth, natural history and above all humour into this gripping tale.

The first book in The Wildflower Trilogy, Flowers of the Gods, will entertain and delight readers aged 8 years and upwards.