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In Bloom: 'A beautiful tale of resilience' Heat
The brilliant and incisive new novel from the author of Lives Like Mine...
A deeply affecting novel, In Bloom tells of strength, survival, forgiveness, resilience and determination, and the fierce love and unbreakable bonds between mothers and daughters.
Delph has kept herself small and quiet as a form of self-protection, ever since the love of her life Sol’s untimely death left her pregnant and alone at the age of twenty-four. Theirs was such a once-in-a-lifetime love, that the loss of her soulmate broke her heart ‒ and almost broke her, too.
Years on, Delph’s protective bubble bursts when her daughter Roche moves out of the flat Delph shares with her partner Itsy and in with her estranged nan, Moon. Now that it’s just the two of them, the cracks in Delph and Itsy’s relationship begin to grow. Feeling on the outside of the bond between her fierce-yet-flaky tarot-reading mother and volatile martial-arts-champion daughter, Delph begins questioning her own freedom.
Is her life with Itsy all it seems? And has keeping small and safe truly been her choice all these years…?
Praise for In
‘I’m a sucker for a mother-daughter tale at the best of times and In Bloom certainly didn’t let me down. Bittersweet, funny, very real. I couldn’t put it down’ Louise Hare
‘Sensitively explores the lives of three generations of women as they search for freedom from guilt and regret. In this novel of hope and love Eva Verde shows that there is always the potential for a second chance’ Sarah Armstrong, author of The Moscow Wolves series
'A beautiful tale of resilience' Heat
'A really powerful, beautifully written story about three generations of working class women with each character so vividly drawn that they leap off the page' Red Online
'Raw and insightful' Good Housekeeping
Praise for Lives Like
‘Londoner Eva Verde’s Lives Like Mine explores the theme of a school-run affair and the complications and joys it brings to a dual-heritage mother struggling with her intolerant in-laws’ Independent
'A bitter sweet story of longing and self-discovery, of deceit and regret. Visceral, authentic and funny, Eva’s prose reads like something between a conversation and a confession. An exciting new voice and a joy to read' Kit de Waal
‘Eva's writing breaks new ground in a confident and original voice, with a sharp eye for detail, wonderful characterisation and some seriously badass humour’ Yvvette Edwards, author of the Man Booker Prize longlisted novel, A Cupboard Full of Coats
A deeply affecting novel, In Bloom tells of strength, survival, forgiveness, resilience and determination, and the fierce love and unbreakable bonds between mothers and daughters.
Delph has kept herself small and quiet as a form of self-protection, ever since the love of her life Sol’s untimely death left her pregnant and alone at the age of twenty-four. Theirs was such a once-in-a-lifetime love, that the loss of her soulmate broke her heart ‒ and almost broke her, too.
Years on, Delph’s protective bubble bursts when her daughter Roche moves out of the flat Delph shares with her partner Itsy and in with her estranged nan, Moon. Now that it’s just the two of them, the cracks in Delph and Itsy’s relationship begin to grow. Feeling on the outside of the bond between her fierce-yet-flaky tarot-reading mother and volatile martial-arts-champion daughter, Delph begins questioning her own freedom.
Is her life with Itsy all it seems? And has keeping small and safe truly been her choice all these years…?
Praise for In
‘I’m a sucker for a mother-daughter tale at the best of times and In Bloom certainly didn’t let me down. Bittersweet, funny, very real. I couldn’t put it down’ Louise Hare
‘Sensitively explores the lives of three generations of women as they search for freedom from guilt and regret. In this novel of hope and love Eva Verde shows that there is always the potential for a second chance’ Sarah Armstrong, author of The Moscow Wolves series
'A beautiful tale of resilience' Heat
'A really powerful, beautifully written story about three generations of working class women with each character so vividly drawn that they leap off the page' Red Online
'Raw and insightful' Good Housekeeping
Praise for Lives Like
‘Londoner Eva Verde’s Lives Like Mine explores the theme of a school-run affair and the complications and joys it brings to a dual-heritage mother struggling with her intolerant in-laws’ Independent
'A bitter sweet story of longing and self-discovery, of deceit and regret. Visceral, authentic and funny, Eva’s prose reads like something between a conversation and a confession. An exciting new voice and a joy to read' Kit de Waal
‘Eva's writing breaks new ground in a confident and original voice, with a sharp eye for detail, wonderful characterisation and some seriously badass humour’ Yvvette Edwards, author of the Man Booker Prize longlisted novel, A Cupboard Full of Coats
- GenresContemporaryFiction
381 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2023
9 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
About the author
Eva Verde
5 books30 followersEva Verde is a writer from East London. Identity, class and female rage are recurring themes throughout her work and her novels Lives Like Mine and In Bloom are published by Simon and Schuster.
Eva's love song to libraries, I Am Not Your Tituba forms part of Kit De Waal’s Common People: An Anthology of Working-Class Writers. Her words have featured in Marie Claire, Grazia, Elle and The Big Issue, also penning the new foreword for the international bestselling author Jackie Collins Goddess of Vengeance.
Them Girls, her third novel will be published in April 2026 by Simon and Schuster.
Eva lives in Essex with her husband, children and dog.
Instagram @evakinderwrites
evaverdebooks.com
Eva's love song to libraries, I Am Not Your Tituba forms part of Kit De Waal’s Common People: An Anthology of Working-Class Writers. Her words have featured in Marie Claire, Grazia, Elle and The Big Issue, also penning the new foreword for the international bestselling author Jackie Collins Goddess of Vengeance.
Them Girls, her third novel will be published in April 2026 by Simon and Schuster.
Eva lives in Essex with her husband, children and dog.
Instagram @evakinderwrites
evaverdebooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 1, 2024
Three generations live in the same Essex (county in England) town. There's Rochelle a martial art champion seriously considering being the first person in her family to go to university; and seriously not considering coming out of the closet as a lesbian. There's her mum, Delphine, still thinking of the love of her life Sol's murder that left her pregnant with Roche, when she was 22; still not thinking that her family's dislike of her current partner cab driver Itsy, is justified. There's Delph's estranged mum, Moon, who has taken in Rochelle who left home because of Itsy; who has not taken any booze or drugs to escape her past for at least a day
Another Eve Verde master class in contemporary writing. A book that solely focuses on the three women, their lives and above all how they have to manage themselves and internalise rage to survive in the male dominated reality of everyday life. All three main characters have hidden pain and when Rochelle digs into granny Moon's past it sets the ball rolling for all three of them to face their pasts and change their futures so that one day they will be in bloom. This is an expertly and realistically written deep character led work that had me smiling at the end. A 9 out of 12 Four Star book.
2024 read
Another strongly recommended read by Eva Verde: Lives Like Mine
Another Eve Verde master class in contemporary writing. A book that solely focuses on the three women, their lives and above all how they have to manage themselves and internalise rage to survive in the male dominated reality of everyday life. All three main characters have hidden pain and when Rochelle digs into granny Moon's past it sets the ball rolling for all three of them to face their pasts and change their futures so that one day they will be in bloom. This is an expertly and realistically written deep character led work that had me smiling at the end. A 9 out of 12 Four Star book.
2024 read
Another strongly recommended read by Eva Verde: Lives Like Mine
April 21, 2025
Stunning, breathtaking, heartbreaking, empowering, emotional, beautiful. All the emotions. I loved In Bloom. I felt every word, every emotion. Moon, Delph, Rochelle. Their stories, their experiences, their pain, their hurt, and the joy and strength. The multigenerational trauma and its impact, the breaking through what's there, what's the known, the safety net of abuse and escaping and embracing the possibility that there is more, there is different. It's complicated, it's complex and Verde writes it with such skill. My heart broke and healed and broke some more. I once had Itsy in my life. I've known women who have or had their own Itsy. I hope they get to read that book. It's heartfelt, it's needed. It's a triumph.
April 2, 2025
*Thank you to iQ student Accommodation for sending me a copy of this book to promote their Book Club!*
This book took me a minute to get into, because immediately the physical book didn't work for me. I really didn’t gel with the style of writing, it felt overly simplistic and basic. As soon as I switched to the audiobook I found the story a lot more palatable, and I was able to get through it in a couple of sittings and for the most part enjoyed it. The narrator was extremely engaging, and told the story in a way that held my attention better. The writing still wasn’t my favourite, but it was better listening than reading it.
This is a really heavy hitting one, full of a lot of difficult subject matter. It’s really emotionally charged, but I didn’t feel it as much as I should have, because my connection to the characters was lacking a bit. And despite this book following three generations of women who initially start worlds apart, by the end I still felt a vast void between each of them. Though the story tries to weave them back together again and rebuild their shaky dynamics, I don’t think it was overly successful in that endeavour. I feel like we started and ended in almost identical places, but we unearthed a whole heap of trauma in the middle. It was a lot to contend with, and the execution was just a tad weak for me.
I liked each of our characters well enough, but I don’t think we really developed their personhood. By the end of the book they still really felt like almost strangers to me. It was all very surface level and two dimensional. They didn’t feel like distinct women, so each chapter and perspective change the narrative voice remained monotone. It was alright and I didn’t hate it but had the focus been more on the characters than the crazy plot, it would’ve hit harder.
The plot and pacing carried it in terms of engagement value, because there were multiple threads for each character moving us forward. It was engaging and intriguing, despite a lot of the plot points being mildly devastating thrown in haphazardly (ie Moon and her dad, Roche’s coming out moment). I do think the ending was a tad too clean cut, but it was nice to see these characters happy after all.
This book took me a minute to get into, because immediately the physical book didn't work for me. I really didn’t gel with the style of writing, it felt overly simplistic and basic. As soon as I switched to the audiobook I found the story a lot more palatable, and I was able to get through it in a couple of sittings and for the most part enjoyed it. The narrator was extremely engaging, and told the story in a way that held my attention better. The writing still wasn’t my favourite, but it was better listening than reading it.
This is a really heavy hitting one, full of a lot of difficult subject matter. It’s really emotionally charged, but I didn’t feel it as much as I should have, because my connection to the characters was lacking a bit. And despite this book following three generations of women who initially start worlds apart, by the end I still felt a vast void between each of them. Though the story tries to weave them back together again and rebuild their shaky dynamics, I don’t think it was overly successful in that endeavour. I feel like we started and ended in almost identical places, but we unearthed a whole heap of trauma in the middle. It was a lot to contend with, and the execution was just a tad weak for me.
I liked each of our characters well enough, but I don’t think we really developed their personhood. By the end of the book they still really felt like almost strangers to me. It was all very surface level and two dimensional. They didn’t feel like distinct women, so each chapter and perspective change the narrative voice remained monotone. It was alright and I didn’t hate it but had the focus been more on the characters than the crazy plot, it would’ve hit harder.
The plot and pacing carried it in terms of engagement value, because there were multiple threads for each character moving us forward. It was engaging and intriguing, despite a lot of the plot points being mildly devastating thrown in haphazardly (ie Moon and her dad, Roche’s coming out moment). I do think the ending was a tad too clean cut, but it was nice to see these characters happy after all.
September 7, 2023
This is the story of three generations of Tennyson women all finding their place in the world, finding themselves and each other.
In Bloom is one of those books I was instantly captivated by. Firstly the writing is a joy, secondly I love stories of family dynamics like this and thirdly all three women are such brilliant, unforgettable and authentic characters.
When we first meet them they all seem so different but the reader and the women soon come to realise they have more in common than just blood.
We have Moon with her hoarding and tarot reading and two fingers up to convention who would never make mother of the year. Then there's Delph, her adult daughter who has wilted under the influence of a controlling partner and is desperately fighting her way out. Delphs daughter Roche, angry, feisty Roche is on the cusp of her own life, ready to strike out and blaze her own trail.
In Bloom is a story of resilience and fighting through the utter crap that life throws at us - and these women have had more to put up with than most. There are some dark moments as we uncover some devastating family secrets but also so much love and light and humour.
The author perfectly captures how decisions and their consequences can echo down the generations and just how much our childhood experiences can shape us.
All women are so strong and independent but only when they put their differences aside and come together to support and encourage each other, do they really flourish.
This book really is as beautiful inside as it is out. An absolute gem.
In Bloom is one of those books I was instantly captivated by. Firstly the writing is a joy, secondly I love stories of family dynamics like this and thirdly all three women are such brilliant, unforgettable and authentic characters.
When we first meet them they all seem so different but the reader and the women soon come to realise they have more in common than just blood.
We have Moon with her hoarding and tarot reading and two fingers up to convention who would never make mother of the year. Then there's Delph, her adult daughter who has wilted under the influence of a controlling partner and is desperately fighting her way out. Delphs daughter Roche, angry, feisty Roche is on the cusp of her own life, ready to strike out and blaze her own trail.
In Bloom is a story of resilience and fighting through the utter crap that life throws at us - and these women have had more to put up with than most. There are some dark moments as we uncover some devastating family secrets but also so much love and light and humour.
The author perfectly captures how decisions and their consequences can echo down the generations and just how much our childhood experiences can shape us.
All women are so strong and independent but only when they put their differences aside and come together to support and encourage each other, do they really flourish.
This book really is as beautiful inside as it is out. An absolute gem.
October 31, 2024
Things I liked about this book:
It's very well written. The language is very evocative and real and you really get inside the heads of the characters.
It's good to have a book that's about an ordinary family from Southend and the story was very believable.
Things I didn't like about this book:
It covers termination, psychological abuse, forced sex, repeated suicidal thoughts and murder all in the first 100 pages. I know the main character is going to grow and come out of this a stronger person, but reading it is making me depressed.
I really dislike anything to do with tarot cards and the pseudo supernatural - personal preference but a turn off for me.
There is very little humour in it to lighten up the trauma.
All the men in the book are horrible, apart from the one who died of course.
The timeline jumps about too much which gives me a headache.
Sorry - not for me 😞
It's very well written. The language is very evocative and real and you really get inside the heads of the characters.
It's good to have a book that's about an ordinary family from Southend and the story was very believable.
Things I didn't like about this book:
It covers termination, psychological abuse, forced sex, repeated suicidal thoughts and murder all in the first 100 pages. I know the main character is going to grow and come out of this a stronger person, but reading it is making me depressed.
I really dislike anything to do with tarot cards and the pseudo supernatural - personal preference but a turn off for me.
There is very little humour in it to lighten up the trauma.
All the men in the book are horrible, apart from the one who died of course.
The timeline jumps about too much which gives me a headache.
Sorry - not for me 😞
September 16, 2024
Great story, so well written and emotional. Loved it
November 25, 2024
*3.5 stars!
CAWPILE: 6.96/10.00
CAWPILE: 6.96/10.00
June 14, 2023
What can I say, truly this is a phenomenal second novel from Eva Verde. After the much deserved success of her debut Lives Like Mine I couldn't help but immediately preorder In Bloom as soon as I could, as well as being lucky to be an early reader of this digital copy. My expectations were high from the blurb, but wow, it floored me with the intune perceptions, outstanding characters and agonising realness reaching from each page and pulling you further in to the depths of these perfectly flawed people.
With a fluid narrative that captures the psyche and thoughts of the three generations of working class women, Mama Moon, her daughter Delph and granddaughter Roche, as well as Itsy, Delph's long-term partner. Such perspectives lead you through the weaving path of emotions you can't help but connect so strongly to throughout the story, I certainly couldn't. Elation, revulsion, despair, anger, hope, fear; so many emotions as the catastrophic reality of each character literally blossoms over and truths emerge, but the changing landscape leaves you forever altered and hopeful for what is to come.
I personally felt such a depth of connection to both the characters within the story but also the themes, particularly generational trauma, intuition and the fine thread of love that binds down each woman within the line.
It will be a book I recommend to as many people as I can for quite some time.
With a fluid narrative that captures the psyche and thoughts of the three generations of working class women, Mama Moon, her daughter Delph and granddaughter Roche, as well as Itsy, Delph's long-term partner. Such perspectives lead you through the weaving path of emotions you can't help but connect so strongly to throughout the story, I certainly couldn't. Elation, revulsion, despair, anger, hope, fear; so many emotions as the catastrophic reality of each character literally blossoms over and truths emerge, but the changing landscape leaves you forever altered and hopeful for what is to come.
I personally felt such a depth of connection to both the characters within the story but also the themes, particularly generational trauma, intuition and the fine thread of love that binds down each woman within the line.
It will be a book I recommend to as many people as I can for quite some time.
September 24, 2023
This is the first book that I've read by this author so I wasn't sure what to expect - but what a wonderful read.
We explore the lives of 3 generations of women, mama Moon, her daughter Delph and Delph's daughter, Roche.
After living her life as a mother purely for her daughter, Delph starts to question her purpose in life as Roche leaves home to start her own life beyond.
I absolutely loved all our main characters. Hearing each of their backstories and learning more about their successes and flaws and ultimately, seeing their development as they move through the next stages of their lives.
Each was so relatable in their own way and it was easy to become immersed in their story. However, this also meant that it got really emotional.
Being a mum myself, I love to read stories like this, that explore the relationship changes over time of Mums and their daughters. Every event and every emotion so real and so raw.
The writing style totally grabbed you from the first page and flowed so beautifully as the stories interlinked and merged together.
A really enjoyable read and I'll definitely be looking out for more from this author in the future.
We explore the lives of 3 generations of women, mama Moon, her daughter Delph and Delph's daughter, Roche.
After living her life as a mother purely for her daughter, Delph starts to question her purpose in life as Roche leaves home to start her own life beyond.
I absolutely loved all our main characters. Hearing each of their backstories and learning more about their successes and flaws and ultimately, seeing their development as they move through the next stages of their lives.
Each was so relatable in their own way and it was easy to become immersed in their story. However, this also meant that it got really emotional.
Being a mum myself, I love to read stories like this, that explore the relationship changes over time of Mums and their daughters. Every event and every emotion so real and so raw.
The writing style totally grabbed you from the first page and flowed so beautifully as the stories interlinked and merged together.
A really enjoyable read and I'll definitely be looking out for more from this author in the future.
July 31, 2024
This is a powerful and emotional story of the bond between mothers and daughters and the links created in these relationships. The story of three strong women, Roche, Delph and Moon, forging their own path, through the hardships of life and love.
I loved seeing Delph blossom as she realised what she had missed out on in her life- the life she had missed and the relationships damaged. A chance for a second life was beautifully written and I was routing for her completely to be the bud who made it. The link between the three of them although strained at times remained connected and strong and reminded me of the need for women like these in all of our lives.
I loved seeing Delph blossom as she realised what she had missed out on in her life- the life she had missed and the relationships damaged. A chance for a second life was beautifully written and I was routing for her completely to be the bud who made it. The link between the three of them although strained at times remained connected and strong and reminded me of the need for women like these in all of our lives.
August 28, 2024
Such a hard book to follow. I wanted to like it but I could not get into it.
August 7, 2024
In Bloom is the story of three generations of women from one family: Delph, her daughter Roche and Delph's mother Moon. Can the three come together to strengthen their relationship before it is too late?
I have been looking forward to reading this book since I read the synopsis because I wanted to learn more about the lives of the three main characters. I really enjoyed this book and from the first page I was swept into Delph, Roche and Moon's world. The storyline was about relationships whether that be romantic or non-romantic, love, secrets and communication. Communication was a big aspect of the story because it was clear that this had broken down between the characters and in some instances was non-existent.
The storyline was told from the perspective of the three main characters Delph, Roche and Moon together with perspectives of some secondary characters. It was clear from the outset that the relationship between the main characters was strained. Roche moves out of her mother Delph's home and moves in with her Nan Moon as she needs some space. It is this one event that causes a chain reaction in all of their lives. It makes Delph reassess her life and her relationship with her partner Itsy. For the first time Delph acknowledges that her relationship with Itsy isn’t great but more importantly she starts to question whether the relationship should continue. Roche is struggling with her relationship with Delph and Itsy's presence doesn't help either so she starts to rebel. She is also trying to work out what the future holds for her in respect of university and her personal life. It is once Roche moves in with Moon that she starts to ask questions about the men in Moon and Delph's life: her grandfather and father and starts to uncover secrets from the past that had previously been buried. For Moon having Roche move in makes her confront her relationship with her daughter Delph and the distance between them. In some ways it's Roche's decision that restarts the relationship between Delph and Moon and reinstates their connection. One of my favourite aspects of the book was how spiritual Moon was and I enjoyed learning more about Moon's journey in discovering her spiritual side.
The narrative of the story moves between the past and the present. In the present the characters are getting use to a new way of life after Roche makes the decision to move in with her Nan. In the past we are given an insight into both Moon and Delph’s past. The past explains how and why the relationship between Delph and Moon deteriorated. It was interesting to learn about Moon’s past and her relationship with her own mother which wasn’t the best. This then seemed to have a knock on effect with Moon’s relationship with he own daughter and then filtered down to Delph’s relationship with Roche. It was clear that both Moon and Delph went through a lot in the past which had an impact on them but which they never spoke to each other about. Essentially the story is about each character taking a step forward to rebuild their relationship so that it can grow and flourish.
A heart-warming story about family and building bridges.
I have been looking forward to reading this book since I read the synopsis because I wanted to learn more about the lives of the three main characters. I really enjoyed this book and from the first page I was swept into Delph, Roche and Moon's world. The storyline was about relationships whether that be romantic or non-romantic, love, secrets and communication. Communication was a big aspect of the story because it was clear that this had broken down between the characters and in some instances was non-existent.
The storyline was told from the perspective of the three main characters Delph, Roche and Moon together with perspectives of some secondary characters. It was clear from the outset that the relationship between the main characters was strained. Roche moves out of her mother Delph's home and moves in with her Nan Moon as she needs some space. It is this one event that causes a chain reaction in all of their lives. It makes Delph reassess her life and her relationship with her partner Itsy. For the first time Delph acknowledges that her relationship with Itsy isn’t great but more importantly she starts to question whether the relationship should continue. Roche is struggling with her relationship with Delph and Itsy's presence doesn't help either so she starts to rebel. She is also trying to work out what the future holds for her in respect of university and her personal life. It is once Roche moves in with Moon that she starts to ask questions about the men in Moon and Delph's life: her grandfather and father and starts to uncover secrets from the past that had previously been buried. For Moon having Roche move in makes her confront her relationship with her daughter Delph and the distance between them. In some ways it's Roche's decision that restarts the relationship between Delph and Moon and reinstates their connection. One of my favourite aspects of the book was how spiritual Moon was and I enjoyed learning more about Moon's journey in discovering her spiritual side.
The narrative of the story moves between the past and the present. In the present the characters are getting use to a new way of life after Roche makes the decision to move in with her Nan. In the past we are given an insight into both Moon and Delph’s past. The past explains how and why the relationship between Delph and Moon deteriorated. It was interesting to learn about Moon’s past and her relationship with her own mother which wasn’t the best. This then seemed to have a knock on effect with Moon’s relationship with he own daughter and then filtered down to Delph’s relationship with Roche. It was clear that both Moon and Delph went through a lot in the past which had an impact on them but which they never spoke to each other about. Essentially the story is about each character taking a step forward to rebuild their relationship so that it can grow and flourish.
A heart-warming story about family and building bridges.
August 6, 2023
In Bloom is the story of three generations of women from the same family.
Firstly there is Moon, the free-spirit, hippy-ish, fierce-yet-flaky tarot-reading mother of Delphine (Delph). They have had a tricky relationship over the years and have been estranged for a while when the novel opens.
Left pregnant and alone at twenty-four when her first love Sol died, Delph has lived a small, narrow and restricted life as a form of self-protection.
Now she is living with her volatile martial-arts-champion daughter Roche, and partner, Itsy, on the fourteenth floor of Esplanade Point on the Essex coast.
But then Roche moves in with her estranged nan, Moon, and feeling on the outside of the growing bond between her mother and daughter, Delph begins to question her own freedom.
When Roche’s snooping into her grandmother’s past, a familial line of downtrodden women is revealed, and a worrying pattern emerges.
Has keeping small and safe truly been Delph’s choice all these years…?
Oh my goodness what an astoundingly good novel this is - I absolutely loved it.
It made me laugh, it made me cry, and it made me gasp, as this story of love, loss, survival, and resilience played out. For this is a novel about coming to know and understand yourself; about not being defined by the traumas of the past and present, because trauma and hurt can and do cycle through the generations of a family.
This remarkable novel also shows that it is possible - with courage, determination, love and support - to break the chain and not let what has gone before shape the lives and futures of the young.
It’s a novel about love lost and found; about recovering and regaining confidence after sexually abusive or coercive and controlling relationships; and it’s about the uniquely fierce and protective love between mothers and daughters, and the bonds that cannot be broken if forgiveness and understanding triumph.
These deeply affecting themes are matched with Eva Verde’s superlative and vivid characterisation. Her characters leap from the page as multi-layered, living, breathing people, and you come to really know and care for them – or know and despise them.
She writes beautifully, with sentences and descriptions that can stop you in your tracks, and whilst it is a profoundly moving, sad and at times shocking novel, its tone is pitch perfect, with both light and shade.
I loved the title of the novel which links so perfectly to the storyline. Both Moon and Delph have green fingers, finding sanctuary and escape in growing things, and by the end, Moon, Delph and Roche are all, in their own ways, blooming and turning towards the sun and facing hopeful futures.
An outstanding read. I shall look out for Eva Verde’s future novels with great excitement, and I’ll definitely be searching out her backlist.
Firstly there is Moon, the free-spirit, hippy-ish, fierce-yet-flaky tarot-reading mother of Delphine (Delph). They have had a tricky relationship over the years and have been estranged for a while when the novel opens.
Left pregnant and alone at twenty-four when her first love Sol died, Delph has lived a small, narrow and restricted life as a form of self-protection.
Now she is living with her volatile martial-arts-champion daughter Roche, and partner, Itsy, on the fourteenth floor of Esplanade Point on the Essex coast.
But then Roche moves in with her estranged nan, Moon, and feeling on the outside of the growing bond between her mother and daughter, Delph begins to question her own freedom.
When Roche’s snooping into her grandmother’s past, a familial line of downtrodden women is revealed, and a worrying pattern emerges.
Has keeping small and safe truly been Delph’s choice all these years…?
Oh my goodness what an astoundingly good novel this is - I absolutely loved it.
It made me laugh, it made me cry, and it made me gasp, as this story of love, loss, survival, and resilience played out. For this is a novel about coming to know and understand yourself; about not being defined by the traumas of the past and present, because trauma and hurt can and do cycle through the generations of a family.
This remarkable novel also shows that it is possible - with courage, determination, love and support - to break the chain and not let what has gone before shape the lives and futures of the young.
It’s a novel about love lost and found; about recovering and regaining confidence after sexually abusive or coercive and controlling relationships; and it’s about the uniquely fierce and protective love between mothers and daughters, and the bonds that cannot be broken if forgiveness and understanding triumph.
These deeply affecting themes are matched with Eva Verde’s superlative and vivid characterisation. Her characters leap from the page as multi-layered, living, breathing people, and you come to really know and care for them – or know and despise them.
She writes beautifully, with sentences and descriptions that can stop you in your tracks, and whilst it is a profoundly moving, sad and at times shocking novel, its tone is pitch perfect, with both light and shade.
I loved the title of the novel which links so perfectly to the storyline. Both Moon and Delph have green fingers, finding sanctuary and escape in growing things, and by the end, Moon, Delph and Roche are all, in their own ways, blooming and turning towards the sun and facing hopeful futures.
An outstanding read. I shall look out for Eva Verde’s future novels with great excitement, and I’ll definitely be searching out her backlist.
July 25, 2024
In Bloom is a moving tribute to women across the generations. It is told from the perspectives of three generations of women from the same family - grandmother Moon, daughter Delph and grand-daughter Roche. Three seemingly very different women on the face of it with us the reader getting a fly on the wall insight into their lives as the chapters slip back and forth between the present and the past when Moon was a young girl, before Delph was born - but each more alike than any of them realise.
As the layers were stripped back it was as clear as day that the three women had more in common than they cared to see themselves and as their tales were told I genuinely felt my emotions swaying back and forth, with every emotion the polar opposite heartbreak, sadness, pain, joy, happiness and delight. In Bloom is the perfect title as this story traverses much hurt, pain and many, many secrets that we as a reader are told throughout from each of the three narratives.
Eva Verde has definitely perfected the art of giving an insight into the lives of each of the three women through her carefully chosen words, saying just enough to paint a vivid outline of a picture leaving the reader to join the dots and finish painting the picture themselves, leaving much to the readers imagination, images of each of them, their environments and emotions are firmly imprinted on my mind, the images going through multiple iterations throughout the story - from dull, washed out greys and pastels right through to the most vibrant colours giving relevance to the most perfect title of In Bloom.
Delph moving into her nan Moon’s home seemed reasonable, she wasn’t happy living at home at home with her mum and where else would you go but to your grand-mother’s. Moon however, isn’t your typical grandmother she exists in a house, she does not live in a home. She’s eclectic and very different and is keeping her past and secrets, buried beneath the very fabric of the clutter and dirt she lives in. Roche is inquisitive and before she knows it uncovers family secrets that Moon has tried hard to bury - as a reader I swung backwards and forwards in my thoughts silently giving advice to all three of them, often wondering how they could ever be related. Each of them so very alike stubborn, strong, determined with a fierce loyalty and love for each other - they just didn’t voice it. Such is the complicated and painful past - that when it’s uncovered causes more hurt and anguish than any of them realise before eventually their strength and fierce loyalty to each other shine through.
This is a story that I could see several different endings and my emotions were shaken throughout. I just loved this book so much and as a reader felt privileged to travel with them on their separate journeys to the same destination.
As the layers were stripped back it was as clear as day that the three women had more in common than they cared to see themselves and as their tales were told I genuinely felt my emotions swaying back and forth, with every emotion the polar opposite heartbreak, sadness, pain, joy, happiness and delight. In Bloom is the perfect title as this story traverses much hurt, pain and many, many secrets that we as a reader are told throughout from each of the three narratives.
Eva Verde has definitely perfected the art of giving an insight into the lives of each of the three women through her carefully chosen words, saying just enough to paint a vivid outline of a picture leaving the reader to join the dots and finish painting the picture themselves, leaving much to the readers imagination, images of each of them, their environments and emotions are firmly imprinted on my mind, the images going through multiple iterations throughout the story - from dull, washed out greys and pastels right through to the most vibrant colours giving relevance to the most perfect title of In Bloom.
Delph moving into her nan Moon’s home seemed reasonable, she wasn’t happy living at home at home with her mum and where else would you go but to your grand-mother’s. Moon however, isn’t your typical grandmother she exists in a house, she does not live in a home. She’s eclectic and very different and is keeping her past and secrets, buried beneath the very fabric of the clutter and dirt she lives in. Roche is inquisitive and before she knows it uncovers family secrets that Moon has tried hard to bury - as a reader I swung backwards and forwards in my thoughts silently giving advice to all three of them, often wondering how they could ever be related. Each of them so very alike stubborn, strong, determined with a fierce loyalty and love for each other - they just didn’t voice it. Such is the complicated and painful past - that when it’s uncovered causes more hurt and anguish than any of them realise before eventually their strength and fierce loyalty to each other shine through.
This is a story that I could see several different endings and my emotions were shaken throughout. I just loved this book so much and as a reader felt privileged to travel with them on their separate journeys to the same destination.
July 30, 2024
Delph is forced to take a good hard look at her life when her seventeen-year-old-daughter Roche makes the choice to leave home and move in with Delph's mother Moon, an eccentric woman who exists very much on her own terms.
Delph has a lot to reflect on. She begins to realise she has been sleepwalking through the years, kept under the control of her partner Itsy, the man who came into her life when she was left pregnant and alone by the staggering murder of Roche's father, Sol.
Can these three women ever find a way to be a family?
This stunning family drama, with touches of literary thriller and unconventional romance, totally immerses you in the lives of three generations of women separated by the emotional baggage they have collected. At the heart of the novel sits Delph, caught between the maddening behaviour of her flaky mother Moon, and the frustrations her daughter Roche cannot contain. They seem poles apart, and you feel every moment of exasperation as they cannot help but rub each other the wrong way, which I think many readers will find poignantly relatable.
Verde knows how to write superbly about difficult family dynamics from the outset, but it is not until the history of these women reveals itself through sensitively written scenes in the present, and powerfully wielded glimpses of the past, that that you truly understand the events that have shaped them. There is an almost relentless tide of heartache, yearning, and unfathomable loss laid bare as you discover shocking secrets that Moon only knows how to stifle under hoarded possessions and a cocktail of drink and drugs; Delph's utter helplessness in a relationship that is all about control rather than love; and the aching vulnerability of Roche as she struggles with her identity, future and fears.
My emotions took a pounding from the echoing themes of abuse, racism, manipulation, and grief. Many tears were shed. And yet, as these women shatter the well-worn pattern of dysfunction that isolates them from each other, confronting the past and looking towards a future filled with forgiveness, it is the unbreakable bonds of love and the warming spark of hope that overwhelm you. I loved that Delph, Moon and Roche finally come into blossom, in keeping with the wonderful title In Bloom, and it was a joy to be at their sides as they found their way towards the sunlight. Beautifully written, and intensely moving.
Delph has a lot to reflect on. She begins to realise she has been sleepwalking through the years, kept under the control of her partner Itsy, the man who came into her life when she was left pregnant and alone by the staggering murder of Roche's father, Sol.
Can these three women ever find a way to be a family?
This stunning family drama, with touches of literary thriller and unconventional romance, totally immerses you in the lives of three generations of women separated by the emotional baggage they have collected. At the heart of the novel sits Delph, caught between the maddening behaviour of her flaky mother Moon, and the frustrations her daughter Roche cannot contain. They seem poles apart, and you feel every moment of exasperation as they cannot help but rub each other the wrong way, which I think many readers will find poignantly relatable.
Verde knows how to write superbly about difficult family dynamics from the outset, but it is not until the history of these women reveals itself through sensitively written scenes in the present, and powerfully wielded glimpses of the past, that that you truly understand the events that have shaped them. There is an almost relentless tide of heartache, yearning, and unfathomable loss laid bare as you discover shocking secrets that Moon only knows how to stifle under hoarded possessions and a cocktail of drink and drugs; Delph's utter helplessness in a relationship that is all about control rather than love; and the aching vulnerability of Roche as she struggles with her identity, future and fears.
My emotions took a pounding from the echoing themes of abuse, racism, manipulation, and grief. Many tears were shed. And yet, as these women shatter the well-worn pattern of dysfunction that isolates them from each other, confronting the past and looking towards a future filled with forgiveness, it is the unbreakable bonds of love and the warming spark of hope that overwhelm you. I loved that Delph, Moon and Roche finally come into blossom, in keeping with the wonderful title In Bloom, and it was a joy to be at their sides as they found their way towards the sunlight. Beautifully written, and intensely moving.
August 25, 2024
The story In Bloom begins in Essex in 2023 where we meet Delphine (Delph) Tennyson, who is 42 and lives in a flat with her partner Geoffrey Pearson Jnr (known as Itsy) and her seventeen-year-old daughter Rochelle (known as Roche).
We learn that Sol (Delph’s ex, Roche’s dad) died young and the relationship between Roche and her stepdad is a difficult one. This soon leads to Roche leaving the flat and going to stay with her grandmother Moon, who is a real character! Moon is nearly sixty, and has been estranged from Delph for five years.
The story goes back in time throughout and into the present, so we get to fill in the gaps of these women’s stories and understand what has happened to them before. Each of the three women has had to deal with many struggles in their own lives, which have affected – and are affecting – their relationships with each other now.
I do love strong women characters and Moon, Delph and Roche all fit this well. In some places, the story is very sad and at times even brutal and can be quite hard to read in parts, but Eva Verde’s writing is so understanding that it doesn’t become depressing, because the fact that the women are still fighting is such a positive thing. Everything feels very real and nothing is sugar coated. I also enjoyed how distinctive the narrative voices of mother and daughter are and how Roche’s words are written how a teenager would speak.
Being a daughter, mother and grandmother myself, I found it fascinating to see all the relationships and how the dynamic changes in different situations – for example, how Roche seems very closed at home around her stepfather, but more free to be herself with her grandmother.
There are so many excellent descriptions of how it feels to be a mum and a daughter – all the love and exhaustion and conflicting emotions. I could relate to so much of this – how you never feel you have done enough and all the guilt you carry. I thought it was especially hard for Delph, how she is both a mother to a daughter who needs her (though may not think so) and a daughter to a mother with issues who also needs her, and how Delph has to juggle all these alongside the problematic relationship she has with Itsy.
I have never read a book quite like this before and want to praise Eva Verde for her unique and beautiful voice, and her way of tackling topics that are so near to all our hearts by breaking down everything, so there can be a way found to build it back up again.
We learn that Sol (Delph’s ex, Roche’s dad) died young and the relationship between Roche and her stepdad is a difficult one. This soon leads to Roche leaving the flat and going to stay with her grandmother Moon, who is a real character! Moon is nearly sixty, and has been estranged from Delph for five years.
The story goes back in time throughout and into the present, so we get to fill in the gaps of these women’s stories and understand what has happened to them before. Each of the three women has had to deal with many struggles in their own lives, which have affected – and are affecting – their relationships with each other now.
I do love strong women characters and Moon, Delph and Roche all fit this well. In some places, the story is very sad and at times even brutal and can be quite hard to read in parts, but Eva Verde’s writing is so understanding that it doesn’t become depressing, because the fact that the women are still fighting is such a positive thing. Everything feels very real and nothing is sugar coated. I also enjoyed how distinctive the narrative voices of mother and daughter are and how Roche’s words are written how a teenager would speak.
Being a daughter, mother and grandmother myself, I found it fascinating to see all the relationships and how the dynamic changes in different situations – for example, how Roche seems very closed at home around her stepfather, but more free to be herself with her grandmother.
There are so many excellent descriptions of how it feels to be a mum and a daughter – all the love and exhaustion and conflicting emotions. I could relate to so much of this – how you never feel you have done enough and all the guilt you carry. I thought it was especially hard for Delph, how she is both a mother to a daughter who needs her (though may not think so) and a daughter to a mother with issues who also needs her, and how Delph has to juggle all these alongside the problematic relationship she has with Itsy.
I have never read a book quite like this before and want to praise Eva Verde for her unique and beautiful voice, and her way of tackling topics that are so near to all our hearts by breaking down everything, so there can be a way found to build it back up again.
August 1, 2024
In Bloom by Eva Verde follows the lives of three generations of the Tennyson family - Moon, her daughter Delphine (Delph), and her granddaughter Roch. We go on a journey with them, with some absolutely beautiful writing, navigating the complexities, challenges and great difficulties of life but we also share in their hope for the future. Many themes are explored in this wonderful book including identity, belonging and family - some of which have been experienced by many of us, at some point in our lives. We experience with them their strength and their struggles to survive.
Such a brilliant setting and the characters were interwoven into the book so well. We are shown their vulnerabilities as well as their strengths. This is a book that will take you on your own journey too.
We learn so much depth about each character - I felt like I was part of the Tennyson family. Delphine is such a strong and determined character - she struggles with her past and has had so much heartache but she only wants the best for her daughter. Delphine wants her daughter to shine and succeed in life and have a better future than she did at her age.
Delphine’s relationship with her mother Moon highlights and explores the tensions between generations and the complexities of family bonds and relationships. Moon is very wise and has so much experience - she is a rock to her family. Rochelle is a character that I was rooting for all along. She is desperately trying to work out who she is and what she wants from life.
The way Eva Verde describes the characters gives us so much insight into not only their present lives but also their past lives too - it is brilliantly written.
All the characters in the book were so well portrayed and bought two ends of the spectrum together - hardship and hope. The bonds and love they all had for each other, were only strengthened as time went on.
In Bloom is a very emotional and hard read at times as some very difficult issues were tackled, however they were done so with great sensitivity and very skilful writing indeed. This book really showed the real side of daughter and mother relationships. A very poignant read, with lighter moments too, which will make you smile.
Thank you to Eva Verde for such a powerful book - which will stay with me for a long time.
Such a brilliant setting and the characters were interwoven into the book so well. We are shown their vulnerabilities as well as their strengths. This is a book that will take you on your own journey too.
We learn so much depth about each character - I felt like I was part of the Tennyson family. Delphine is such a strong and determined character - she struggles with her past and has had so much heartache but she only wants the best for her daughter. Delphine wants her daughter to shine and succeed in life and have a better future than she did at her age.
Delphine’s relationship with her mother Moon highlights and explores the tensions between generations and the complexities of family bonds and relationships. Moon is very wise and has so much experience - she is a rock to her family. Rochelle is a character that I was rooting for all along. She is desperately trying to work out who she is and what she wants from life.
The way Eva Verde describes the characters gives us so much insight into not only their present lives but also their past lives too - it is brilliantly written.
All the characters in the book were so well portrayed and bought two ends of the spectrum together - hardship and hope. The bonds and love they all had for each other, were only strengthened as time went on.
In Bloom is a very emotional and hard read at times as some very difficult issues were tackled, however they were done so with great sensitivity and very skilful writing indeed. This book really showed the real side of daughter and mother relationships. A very poignant read, with lighter moments too, which will make you smile.
Thank you to Eva Verde for such a powerful book - which will stay with me for a long time.
July 29, 2024
I was totally entranced by In Bloom by Eva Verde. It's a novel written with compassion and heart that features three completely different female characters who are bound together by family ties.
Delph is woman who has struggled with life. Left pregnant at a young age when her partner died, she's spent most of her life dedicated to others. Delph's daughter Roche is feisty and ready to take on anything, for her, life is just beginning and she intends to grasp it with both hands. Moon is Delph's mother and Roche's grandmother; an unconventional woman in many ways. When Roche decides that she's going to move in with Moon, Delph is shocked and feels unwanted.
The author cleverly moves back and forward through the years, we learn about Moon and Delph's earlier lives, and how their experiences have made them the women that they are today. When Roche delves deeper into her grandmother's past, issues are revealed that change perceptions.
This is a beautifully written exploration of female family relationships. The characters are solidly created, all unique and all totally believable. The themes of guilt, regret and ultimately forgiveness are so well developed, there's a real beauty to this writing, it totally snares the reader and keeps them invested in the lives of these three women.
The author does not shy away from some deeply emotional issues, but her ability to handle these with such care is outstanding.
Different voices, different issues and different times, but all so intricately woven together. A really heartwarming read. Recommended by me
Delph is woman who has struggled with life. Left pregnant at a young age when her partner died, she's spent most of her life dedicated to others. Delph's daughter Roche is feisty and ready to take on anything, for her, life is just beginning and she intends to grasp it with both hands. Moon is Delph's mother and Roche's grandmother; an unconventional woman in many ways. When Roche decides that she's going to move in with Moon, Delph is shocked and feels unwanted.
The author cleverly moves back and forward through the years, we learn about Moon and Delph's earlier lives, and how their experiences have made them the women that they are today. When Roche delves deeper into her grandmother's past, issues are revealed that change perceptions.
This is a beautifully written exploration of female family relationships. The characters are solidly created, all unique and all totally believable. The themes of guilt, regret and ultimately forgiveness are so well developed, there's a real beauty to this writing, it totally snares the reader and keeps them invested in the lives of these three women.
The author does not shy away from some deeply emotional issues, but her ability to handle these with such care is outstanding.
Different voices, different issues and different times, but all so intricately woven together. A really heartwarming read. Recommended by me
March 5, 2024
This was a beautifully observed story of 3 women, very different characters, all linked by family and showing how life is challenging no matter your age or outlook. Watching on as these women deal with the world, and each other!, was brilliantly explored and I found myself really invested in the family goings on.
Delph is the mum, her daughter is Roche, and grandma is Moon and we see their stories evolve as they face new challenges. Mum has always put her daughter first, and now Roche wants to set out on her own journey and your really feel the hesitation of Delph not wanting to let go but knowing she has to let her daughter be her own person and live her own life. When Roche moves in with nan for some space, they each begin to see different aspects to each others' stories. And Nan is not your typical gran anyway! Moon is a formidable, free spirited woman which is very different from her daughter but we get to see their pasts and that glimpse gives you a real understanding of just what has shaped their characters.
There's some real trauma amongst their stories, and with Delph especially you see why she's been so 'small' in her own relationships but watching her start to bloom and value her own decisions was really lovely to see. There's lots going on throughout this whole book but each character is very well developed and stands separately as a personality so that was really well done. A very good read!!
Delph is the mum, her daughter is Roche, and grandma is Moon and we see their stories evolve as they face new challenges. Mum has always put her daughter first, and now Roche wants to set out on her own journey and your really feel the hesitation of Delph not wanting to let go but knowing she has to let her daughter be her own person and live her own life. When Roche moves in with nan for some space, they each begin to see different aspects to each others' stories. And Nan is not your typical gran anyway! Moon is a formidable, free spirited woman which is very different from her daughter but we get to see their pasts and that glimpse gives you a real understanding of just what has shaped their characters.
There's some real trauma amongst their stories, and with Delph especially you see why she's been so 'small' in her own relationships but watching her start to bloom and value her own decisions was really lovely to see. There's lots going on throughout this whole book but each character is very well developed and stands separately as a personality so that was really well done. A very good read!!
August 14, 2023
Meet grandmother Moon, daughter Delphine and granddaughter Rochelle - three women who have to battle to find their own voice and independence against a background of impoverishment and controlling menfolk. This was a moving and very authentic story, with all three women's stories dovetailing neatly into each other, as they explore their own, often fraught relationship with each other and with the outside world.
They are very different women, but each has an inner strength, though Delphine sometimes struggles to find hers. The narrative, told from their different viewpoints, builds up a vivid and rich picture of their lives, past and present, and has us hoping and praying that each will find a better future, and forge on together with a better understanding of each other's frailties and strength. You can't choose a favourite between the women - Moon is so gloriously, independently herself, Rochelle so feisty, and Delphine so sweet and vulnerable.
Their story is told with empathy and humour, and though it never falters in its exploration of issues like abuse, racism, and coercive control, it offers hope and joy to the reader. A superb read.
They are very different women, but each has an inner strength, though Delphine sometimes struggles to find hers. The narrative, told from their different viewpoints, builds up a vivid and rich picture of their lives, past and present, and has us hoping and praying that each will find a better future, and forge on together with a better understanding of each other's frailties and strength. You can't choose a favourite between the women - Moon is so gloriously, independently herself, Rochelle so feisty, and Delphine so sweet and vulnerable.
Their story is told with empathy and humour, and though it never falters in its exploration of issues like abuse, racism, and coercive control, it offers hope and joy to the reader. A superb read.
September 7, 2023
Oh my goodness how I adored this book - the writing, the characters, and the incredible strength of these women was just 🥺🥺🥺 Super easy five stars from me!
This is a novel of mothers and daughters, and how differently people deal with trauma - some making themselves small and living a life of control, while others grow wild and free. But one thing they both share is the impact these behaviours can have on their own daughters, perpetuating this heartbreaking circle.
I honestly just thought this was so moving - my heart ached for these women who’d suffered so much but still showed love and compassion to each other. Mother/daughter relationships are always fascinating to me, and I thought these were beautifully written, fragile and honest.
And omg the writing! Almost lyrical, and the perfect soothing antidote to some of the devastating things happening within the story. There are some seriously difficult themes in this, including sexual abuse and controlling behaviours so do check TW’s, but it’s just such an exquisite novel and I was left filled with hope.
This is a novel of mothers and daughters, and how differently people deal with trauma - some making themselves small and living a life of control, while others grow wild and free. But one thing they both share is the impact these behaviours can have on their own daughters, perpetuating this heartbreaking circle.
I honestly just thought this was so moving - my heart ached for these women who’d suffered so much but still showed love and compassion to each other. Mother/daughter relationships are always fascinating to me, and I thought these were beautifully written, fragile and honest.
And omg the writing! Almost lyrical, and the perfect soothing antidote to some of the devastating things happening within the story. There are some seriously difficult themes in this, including sexual abuse and controlling behaviours so do check TW’s, but it’s just such an exquisite novel and I was left filled with hope.
July 6, 2023
Book Review 📚
In Bloom by Eva Verde - 4/5 ⭐
The blurb sold me, was very intrigued and wanted to read it immediately. To say I wasn't disappointed is an understatement. What a phenomenal read. My first book by Eva Verde but it's safe to say I'll definitely read others.
I love how the story follows three reasonably normal working class women, all of whom are related. Grandmother, mother and daughter. That was a nice touch. The way you feel some connection to the female lead is mind-blowing. There's something so real about her and her story.
The writing is flawless throughout the book, with a range of emotions blowing you away every so often. As well great character development across the board. There isn't anything I can fault with the story, the characters or the writing. It's a must read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for allowing me to read this ARC - this is an HONEST review from my own personal opinion.
In Bloom by Eva Verde - 4/5 ⭐
The blurb sold me, was very intrigued and wanted to read it immediately. To say I wasn't disappointed is an understatement. What a phenomenal read. My first book by Eva Verde but it's safe to say I'll definitely read others.
I love how the story follows three reasonably normal working class women, all of whom are related. Grandmother, mother and daughter. That was a nice touch. The way you feel some connection to the female lead is mind-blowing. There's something so real about her and her story.
The writing is flawless throughout the book, with a range of emotions blowing you away every so often. As well great character development across the board. There isn't anything I can fault with the story, the characters or the writing. It's a must read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for allowing me to read this ARC - this is an HONEST review from my own personal opinion.
July 25, 2023
Ah what a great book. Verde is a proper writer.
This is full of thoughtful, brilliant detail, utterly convincing characters, the grit and scurry of life in the 2020s, a nicely complex yet uncomplicated story of three generations of Tennyson women: self-named Moon, angry damaged daughter, messy mum and grandmother; Delphine Magenta, irritated daughter and painfully loving mother, emerging blinking into her early forties, escape finally looking possible after years in the darkness of grief and oppression; and teenage Roche, daughter and grandaughter, vivid, brilliant, everything waiting for her to grasp it, to finally escape.
We're all formed so deeply by our experiences, childhoods shaped by the experiences of our parents, it's amazing anyone ever gets anywhere at all, and Verde's light touch works really well to explore this, that weight of generations of women unable to extract themselves from obligation and expectation, dreams of a more rewarding life put away or crushed.
This is full of thoughtful, brilliant detail, utterly convincing characters, the grit and scurry of life in the 2020s, a nicely complex yet uncomplicated story of three generations of Tennyson women: self-named Moon, angry damaged daughter, messy mum and grandmother; Delphine Magenta, irritated daughter and painfully loving mother, emerging blinking into her early forties, escape finally looking possible after years in the darkness of grief and oppression; and teenage Roche, daughter and grandaughter, vivid, brilliant, everything waiting for her to grasp it, to finally escape.
We're all formed so deeply by our experiences, childhoods shaped by the experiences of our parents, it's amazing anyone ever gets anywhere at all, and Verde's light touch works really well to explore this, that weight of generations of women unable to extract themselves from obligation and expectation, dreams of a more rewarding life put away or crushed.
September 13, 2023
With a book that allows a person who has been unknowingly downtrodden to be awoken and find life anew, I am feeling very positive and and wonderful. This book really gives you a rollercoaster of feels, as you start out the read feeling so down and out of sorts for our main character. A life that never seemed to truly start, though she does have a child to show for it all, she has lost herself and he way. Then, some things happen that allow her to see that not all is lost and there is a chance to start from today. It is brilliant to read along as things kick off and see just what can happen when you open your eyes and mind to the possibilities, especially when you start to notice you haven’t been getting treated as you should.
I found the read very interesting and filled with emotion. It allowed you to understand and grow as a reader, and really feel what the main character was feeling.
I found the read very interesting and filled with emotion. It allowed you to understand and grow as a reader, and really feel what the main character was feeling.
September 24, 2023
In Bloom is one of those unexpected gems of a book - a moving and utterly captivating story of three generations of women that stole my heart and I couldn’t have loved more!
It’s the story of Moon, her daughter Delph and her granddaughter Roche. Three very different women but all in their own ways products of their environment, as we all are, it manages to be a heartbreaking but ultimately hopeful journey for the reader.
Thanks to Verde’s characterisation all three leap off the page and it all feels so real as they try to move forward in their own way - and the evolution of the mother/daughter relationships is something many of us can relate to.
It’s one of those books that will make you laugh and make you cry - it tackles some tough subjects but is pitch perfect in the way those are balanced against the humour. It’s a relatively small book with a huge heart - and one you need to read!
It’s the story of Moon, her daughter Delph and her granddaughter Roche. Three very different women but all in their own ways products of their environment, as we all are, it manages to be a heartbreaking but ultimately hopeful journey for the reader.
Thanks to Verde’s characterisation all three leap off the page and it all feels so real as they try to move forward in their own way - and the evolution of the mother/daughter relationships is something many of us can relate to.
It’s one of those books that will make you laugh and make you cry - it tackles some tough subjects but is pitch perfect in the way those are balanced against the humour. It’s a relatively small book with a huge heart - and one you need to read!
August 31, 2023
💐 IN BLOOM by EVA VERDE 💐
I was lucky to be able to take part in the random things tour.
This book is an absolute dream! An excellent read from start to finish.
Based around three generations of women, all completely different in their ways but this story connects them. This story shows the strengths of these three women and their individual background stories.
This book is well written and is a riveting read from start to finish. Absolutely loved the three main characters and their unique ways. The bond between these women is well communicated to the reader. This book is an emotional read from start to finish and highlights the strength and courage of the three women in the novel.
The story cannot help but captivate you and the connection felt between the three main characters is lovable.
Will definitely read more books by this author!
AD-PR
I was lucky to be able to take part in the random things tour.
This book is an absolute dream! An excellent read from start to finish.
Based around three generations of women, all completely different in their ways but this story connects them. This story shows the strengths of these three women and their individual background stories.
This book is well written and is a riveting read from start to finish. Absolutely loved the three main characters and their unique ways. The bond between these women is well communicated to the reader. This book is an emotional read from start to finish and highlights the strength and courage of the three women in the novel.
The story cannot help but captivate you and the connection felt between the three main characters is lovable.
Will definitely read more books by this author!
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April 14, 2024
I highly recommend this gorgeous read. Examining the stories of three generations of women in the same family and their relationships. I loved how authentic and relatable the characters were. It handles big topics like controlling relationships, poverty, racism and abuse with such a sensitive and thoughtful hand. Ultimately it’s a hopeful story about finding your own voice. This is the type of story I love because it’s about everyday people trying to forge a life for themselves.
May 7, 2024
I adored this novel. This book should be HYPED. These three generations of women - Moon, Delph and Roche - just captured my heart. They are so strong but they shouldn't have to be. Their relationships and pasts are messy and complicated. But they are such beautiful souls. The dialogue, the settings, the emotional resonance is just amazing. Eva Verde is an incredible writer and I'm so glad she followed her dream. These characters will live rent free in my mind forever
November 22, 2024
i picked this book up just because the cover was really pretty, not really knowing what to expect but i am so impressed ! it tells the story of three generations of women: their lives, histories, and of the horrors they’ve had to face. it took a while fo me to get into the book and style of natation but i became so captured by these women and instantly fell in love with the complex bonds they have with one another.
February 23, 2025
A story of three generations of women - teenage Roche, mum Delphine & grandmother Moon -, all struggling through life & trying to cope with the anger that comes from burying the past. There are some very dark moments waiting to erupt & it will take the three of them together to find new directions, supporting each other with love & resilience. I didn't really connect with the characters but it was a well-written tale.
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