The Serpent's Kiss

In this poignant and whimsical 17th-century romance, a Dutch garden architect is hired by a wealthy merchant to create an extravagant garden that will ultimately bankrupt his rival. Unbeknownst to the merchant, his wife's cousin is also vying for a chance at love with the architect, leading to a complex web of relationships and desires. As the garden grows and Smithers' fortunes decline, the lines between reality and fantasy blur, and the characters must confront their own vulnerabilities and loyalties. Set against the lush backdrop of Ireland and England, "The Serpent's Kiss" is a nuanced exploration of love, class, and the human condition.