Saturday, October 12, 2024

THE BLOOMING OF DELPHINIUM by Holly Varni, Reviewed by Paula Shreckhise

“In a small town like Moonberry Lake, one’s personal business is everyone’s business.”

This second book set in Moonberry Lake has a wonderfully quirky set of characters. Delphinium Hayes has an uncanny ability to recognize a person’s personality traits by their unique flower scents. Her gift of discernment can be a help or a hindrance leading to some very funny moments. But the core of the story is her heart for the senior citizens at the local nursing home. As they take over her flower shop, the fun begins. The oldsters have boycotted the facility run by Elliot and the sparks not only fly between the residents and the administration but between Delphinium and Elliot. 

“A relationship needs sparks, not grenades.” “Both make an impact and can start fires, he smirked mischievously.” “ We spar.” “That’s something.”  

There is much to love about this book from witty banter, comical characters, an enemies-to-more romance to a solid portrayal of admirable values and spiritual growth. There are end of life issues, forgiveness and reconciliation all wrapped up in a humorously entertaining plot. The book has all I could ask for in an uplifting, amusing tale that has lots of take away lessons. I loved revisiting Moonberry Lake and its inhabitants.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Revell Reads Program and NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.* 5 stars and a strong faith thread

BackCover Blurb:
As far as hidden talents go, Delphinium Hayes is blessed with one of the more unique ones. With the slightest passing whiff, she knows someone's most admirable or weediest characteristic. This peculiar perception never fails to give her an advantage in life--until she meets two men who turn her world upside down.

Mason McCormack has agreed to help her with a group of seniors who have taken over her flower shop as their hangout. But his assistance is not without its price, and Delphinium agrees to compensate him with beautiful bouquets that seem to possess a bit of dating magic.

Elliot Sturgis, director of The Gardens Assisted Living Facility, is determined to discover why a group of his residents keeps sneaking over to Delphinium's shop to play poker in the walk-in refrigerator. He soon finds himself as enchanted by Delphinium as everyone else. But his devotion to following the rules and maintaining order does not endear him to the shop's owner.

Sparks fly as opposites attract and love finds a match in Delphinium's Flora Emporium--even for those who resist it the most. 

Revell Publishing, September, 2024
Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook:




No comments:

Post a Comment

Share This Post

How Our Giveaways Work: The Official Rules

We, the ladies of Inkwell Inspirations, would love to give free stuff to everybody. Since we can't, we will often have a giveaway in conjunction with a specific post. Unless otherwise stated, one winner will be drawn from comments left on that post between the date it was published and the end of the giveaway as determined in the post. Entries must be accompanied by a valid email address. This address is used only to contact the commenter in the event that he/she is the winner, and will not be sold, distributed, or used in any other fashion. The odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. NO PURCHASE, PLEDGE, OR DONATION NECESSARY TO ENTER OR TO WIN. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

Pinterest