The Finders Keepers Library

Love in Bloom #1

by Annie Rains

This heart-warming second chance love story about hope and healing from USA Today bestselling author Annie Rains is perfect for fans of Raeanne Thayne and Jenny Hale!

For a gardener blessed with a green thumb, Savannah Collins’s life sure seems like it’s all thorns, zero roses. She has no job, no relationship, and no place to live. With nothing but a car full of plants and her new rescue kitten, Savannah heads to Bloom, North Carolina, to spend the summer with her beloved Aunt Eleanor, a retired librarian.

Her aunt shares her love of literature with the Finders Keepers Library, located in her beautiful garden, where anyone can stop by to pick a book or leave a book. When a sudden summer storm destroys the library and many of the roses, it will take a village to get everything ready for the garden wedding that is planned there in just three weeks.

As the entire town joins in to make the necessary repairs, Savannah bonds with their neighbor Evan Sanders over the books that Eleanor has handpicked for each of them, helping them both find healing and self-discovery. Savannah only intends to stay through the summer, but when an unexpected job offer, a sudden health crisis, and a wayward pre-teen push her future in new directions, she has to wonder whether this is the place that she is meant to be—and the family she’s meant to be with.

Genres: Romance, Books About Books, Fiction, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook

345 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 16, 2024

About the author

Annie Rains is a contemporary romance author who writes small town love stories set in fictional towns on the coast of North Carolina. Raised in one of America's largest military communities, Annie often features heroes who fight for their countries, while also fighting for a place to call home and a good woman to love. When Annie isn't writing, she's spending time with her husband and 3 children, or reading a book by one of her favorite authors.

If you enjoyed the Hero's Welcome series, don't miss the short wedding story for Kat and Micah (Welcome to Forever). Get it here for FREE: https://www.instafreebie.com/free/aTSl1

For other books and happenings, sign up for my newsletter on my website: www.annierains.com

Reviews

[Shelley's Book Nook · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Reviews Can Also Be Found On:
The Storygraph and The Book Review Crew Blog

“If you ask me, a cup of tea and a good book is the best kind of medicine.”

I love books about books and I really enjoyed Through the Snow Globe by this author when I read it last September. What I liked about her last book was the fact that every chapter felt fresh and new and it had me feeling all the feels. That is missing from The Finders Keepers Library. It was very repetitive and schmaltzy, I felt like I was reading a script for a Hallmark Movie wrapped in pretty paper. I mean let's be honest what book lover isn't going to love that cover? Hallmark movie-type books have their place in the world and that's okay if you're into those (I am not) but this was overly sentimental and cheesy. I don't mind sweet but corny grates on me. What most people enjoy about those types of books I hate...I like suffering! Everything just seemed to wrap up in a nice little bow and HEA and I wanted more difficulties and conflicts.

There is a lot to like about this book as well though. Two characters are dealing with health-related issues, one with a disease and one who lost the use of her legs due to an accident and is now in a wheelchair. I liked how the book showed you can still lead a normal life being differently abled. It is no secret that I am deaf but my life is as normal as it gets. I have kids, a job, hobbies and go to family parties and out with friends. I also liked that there was a character who was a single dad just trying to do his best and the character of his daughter June had flaws but she wasn't a total brat and when she did misbehave he didn't let her away with it. Another thing that I loved was that there was a late-in-life romance subplot. Ellie and Charlie were adorable.

Each chapter started with a book quote but I wish the author had used to library as part of the story more. It should or could have been a character as well. I would have enjoyed more Books and Blooms meetings there and would have appreciated more of the community involvement, I did enjoy what little bit there was I just wanted more of it. All in all, this was a halfway decent read and June and the books saved it for me.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.

[Whitney Erwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love books that include a lot of talk about books and libraries, so I found this one to be very enjoyable! The Finders Keepers Library is a sweet & heartwarming story. It is a second-chance lover's book set in the picturesque small town of Bloom. It reminded me a lot of a Hallmark movie. The characters are very charming, and the romance is clean. I really love the beautiful cover, too!

Thank you to Net Galley, and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Finders Keepers Library by Annie Rains is listed as both the first book in a new contemporary romance Love in Bloom series and also as the fifth book in the contemporary romance Somerset Lake series. Either way this one is like a lot of romance series and has a complete story within this one book and will thus likely be changing the main characters in other books of a series with the setting being what ties them together.

Savannah Collins is at a place in her life when things just don’t seem to be working out they way she’d hoped. With no job, no relationship, and no place to live Savannah decides to head to Bloom, North Carolina to spend the summer with her Aunt Eleanor who is retired and on her own while Savannah works out what is next for herself in life.

After arriving Savannah finds that her aunt desperately needs help with her garden where she keeps open her Finders Keepers Library to share her love of reading. Locals know they are welcome to come take or leave books at any time but a storm has put a damper on the garden location. Savannah dives in right away to help and soon befriends neighbor Evan Sanders who chips in to help and shares his own love of the library and reading.

The Finders Keepers Library is not the first book I’ve read by author Annie Rains so I had high hopes of enjoying it before going in. Thankfully those hopes were met with this tale of family and friendship and dealing with difficulties and disabilities in life. The characters all seemed to have their own struggles making them feel real and easy to connect with. And who wouldn’t be a little jealous of this friendly and fun setting of a neighborhood lending library in a beautiful setting. Definitely look forward to more from this author in the future.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/

[Brandi Holloway · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Finders Keepers Library - small town, second chance romance.
This is a later in life romance & I absolutely love that - not a theme commonly found. Great character development. Such a fun read that I will definitely be recommending! Excited to read more books by this author.


Thank you to NetGalley & Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this ARC!

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Finders Keepers Library brings two of my favorite things together with plants and books being such an important part of the lives of the characters. Savannah is back in Bloom, North Carolina to visit her Aunt Eleanor after her fiancé breaks her engagement because of her medical diagnosis of lupus. She did not know that she would rekindle her friendship and maybe more with her teenage crush Evan, Eleanor's neighbor. Eleanor is a former librarian and has a cute little library in her garden, one where locals can go, borrow, and gift books. Her husband loved gardening and while he was alive, he had his garden and built Eleanor her little library. When a storm does damage to the garden and library, the community comes together to repair it so that a summer wedding of friends can take place. Savannah, a botanist, works with Evan and others to set things straight and romance seems to still be there. This is a sweet story of love, healing, and new beginnings with wonderful characters, including Evan's twelve-year-old daughter, in a fun setting.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.

[Elizabeth of Silver's Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Savannah’s fiancée had just broken up with her after she told him she had Lupus, and she knew going to visit her Aunt Eleanor was sure to be helpful.

The summers she spent in Bloom with Aunt Eleanor were her favorite childhood times.

Going back had many surprises both good and bad.

The good was that she got to see the neighbor next door that she always had a crush on.

The bad was that there was a storm that ruined Aunt Eleanor’s garden and her library shed filled with beloved books that the neighborhood all shared as their own.

The storm actually turned out to be something good too, though, because Savannah got to stay the entire summer helping to restock the library, helping her aunt, and reconnecting with Evan.

There were quite a few other perks as well.

FINDERS KEEPERS LIBRARY is a refreshing, sweet, you-need-it read.

The characters are lovely, and the storyline is every book lover’s dream.

The reader will also love all the book quotes at the beginning of each chapter and that adorable, gorgeous cover.

Don't miss this one especially if you need something wholesome and refreshing.

Thank you to the publisher for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE FINDERS KEEPERS LIBRARY is a sweet novel about letting go of the past and making amends. Of rediscovering what it's like to be in love again, friendships and of coming to terms with loss. In a week where I have started four or five books and given each up at between 30% and 50%, I read THE FINDERS KEEPERS LIBRARY straight through because the story is an easy read with engaging characters, a fun plot, and a believable storyline. I look forward to reading more from Bloom, North Carolina. Annie Rains writes snappy dialogue, fantastic female friendships, and laugh-out-loud moments to give the story the perfect balance of humor and “Will somebody pass the dang tissues?!" THE FINDERS KEEPERS LIBRARY is not my first book by Annie Rains and it won’t be my last!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Fresh Fiction. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

You can see my full review at:

https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...

[Karen J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again an incredible story regarding books, heartache and the love of family.

[EmG ReadsDaily · Rating 4 out of 5]

A charming, small-town, contemporary romance story.

Savannah is a botanist, whose life is not currently going to plan. She decides to visit Bloom, to stay with her beloved aunt Eleanor, who is a retired librarian. Savannah and Eleanor share a love of literature and what Savannah planned on being a few weeks spent with her aunt, turns into a self-discovery summer.

I personally love a book about books. I would have enjoyed a little more bookish banter, and inclusion of the backyard library within more of the storyline.

“If you ask me, a cup of tea and a good book is the best kind of medicine”

There are characters who are experiencing health struggles in this story, however it is still a light and enjoyable read.

3.5 stars

[Patricia Rupell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I really liked that it centered around books and I liked all the book quotes and references. I liked the characters and that they were always there for each other. There were real life issues which gave the book depth.

I really liked the idea of the back yard library, but it didn't play as big a role as I had hoped. I would like to have seen more people come by and borrow books, and even talk about them. I was also underwhelmed by Savannah and Evan's relationship. I just didn't feel the connection.

All in all, though, I really liked it and would recommend to anyone looking for a feel good, small town read.

Thanks so much to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Milena Bookish❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Finders Keepers Libray is a second-chance small-town romance.

Savannah is a botanist who spent her summers at her Aunt Eleanor's house. Unexpected life changes have brought her back to the house where she plans to stay for a few weeks to get back on her feet. However, her stay turns into a summer of self-discovery. Eleanor is a retired librarian who has a charming little library in her garden, open to locals for borrowing and gifting books... When a storm damages the garden and library, Savannah, Evan, Eleanor's neighbor, and the community come together to repair it.

This was a slow start and slow end for me, But I loved the story and the characters. The story is about family, healing, friendship, and love of books and flowers.

Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for the eARC.

[Alyssa Mae · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC - RTC

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Annie Rains isn't one of my usual go-to authors but I couldn't resist this small town, second chance, multiple POV romance between Savannah, newly diagnosed with Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that caused her fiance to dump her. She returns to her great aunt's home in Bloom, to help a friend with her wedding where she runs into Evan, her highschool friend who might have been more who is now a single Dad struggling to help his daughter, June, with her grief after losing her mother to cancer. Filled with bookish love and quotes, heartwarming multigenerational love stories and great disability rep, this was a feel-good read that was also great on audio! Highly recommended for fans of authors like Mary Kay Andrews.

Steam level: kissing only

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has it all. A book about books that is all I needed but the family drama and the romances are the best with a couple of weddings to boot. I just love Rains books so much.
I recommend this one.

[Traci · Rating 3 out of 5]

"A satisfying read for anyone who has ever enjoyed a Hallmark movie." - Booklist

Kinda. I mean, it depends on the Hallmark movie. Some of them are pretty good, some are 2 hours of sheer torture. This one swings both ways on the reading pendulum, or at least, it did for me, which is why I scored it a solid 3 stars.

First, I did like that the author chose to give our heroine an autoimmune disorder, and honestly, lupus isn't one I hear about very often. Using this format to shine a light on the disease - and to use it as one of the big we-can't-be-together devices - was rather refreshing to read. However, there's not a huge amount of discussion about said disease, other than that 1) it's not Savannah's fault she's got it, 2) heat/overexertion is an obvious trigger for her flare-ups, and 3) it can put someone in the hospital at the most unexpected time due to said flare-ups. Nothing about possible medications, nothing about side effects from those meds, just not much other than Savannah being sick/struck by symptoms and causing concern for those that love her.

Second, I appreciate that Evan is trying to be a full-time dad to June. But again, lots of miscommunication, standard devices to be "sent back," and oh my gosh, I still have SO many questions about June's mother! I mean, I could have totally been asleep at the page, but the only thing I remember is that Evan was in the Marines, Juliana got pregnant, and basically June had been living with her mom and grandmother in California since she was born, only spending her summers with her dad. I can't remember if Juliana had been a quick fling, a relationship that just ended, or if she and Evan were married and split up - that's how bland/forgettable some of this book was.

Finally, the library itself! I picked this up because of the title, the idea of such a library, the whimsy and wonder of being so involved in books - and the library barely makes an appearance, except to get damaged in a storm, fixed by all the main players, and to act as a backdrop at the all-important wedding. I wanted that library front and center! Lots of book quotes from a wide range of genres was very appreciated, but again, I really wanted more about the library. Sigh.

So yeah, a lot like a Hallmark movie. I mean, you know how it's going to end, you can see the keep-them-apart devices coming a mile away, and at the end of the day, you'll remember bits and pieces but not the whole thing. It did provide a nice respite from some of the serious crime dramas I've picked up lately, but I think I need to go look for something else to clear my literary palate.

[Jenna (readinginjennaland) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Savannah's fiancee just dumped her after her medical diagnosis of Lupus. She's on her way to stay with her parents until she finds a job. She decides to stop at her Aunt Eleanor's in Bloom, North Carolina. She used to spend summers at Aunt Eleanor's while growing up. Eleanor loves to read and has a shed filled with books called the Finders Keepers Library. Eleanor loves to quote from books. Eleanor's neighbor Evan is mad at Savannah for not coming to check on Eleanor when she was hurt last fall. Savannah had no idea that happened. A storm comes and almost destroys the library and her garden. A wedding is supposed to happen in her backyard in a few weeks. Savannah decides to stay for the summer and help fix up the backyard. She reconnects with her old friends and Evan and his daughter, June.

This book is like a warm hug. I felt so happy while reading it. We have a chronic illness rep, second chance Romance and friendship. I really enjoyed this book.

[Taury · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Finders Keepers Library by Annie Rains is a cute book but not really for me.

[Amanda (amanda.always.reading) Magdic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Small town, second chance romance...Yes please! Even better its a book about books. I think one of the things I loved most about this one was all the book quotes as chapter starters. Like any other Annie Rains novel I've read this one has a full cast of characters you can't help but love. While Savannah and Evan were our main characters, I couldn't help but be drawn to Savannah's aunt Eleanor. She had to be my favorite character and not just because of her love of literature.

The book also has some great disability rep with Savannah's lupus diagnosis ( which is not something you see represented often) and Eleanor's pelvic injury that causes both mobility issues and some mental health/anxiety. As someone who watched a neighbour suffer through that exact injury I can say it was well presented. As well we get a side of heaviness and grief as Evan's daughter June deals with the loss of her mother. All of this adds up to a realistic read. Full of life lessons and learning to open up oneself. This would make a perfect Hallmark movie that I would totally watch. I think my only real criticism would be is that I wish the library would have featured more as a functioning entity and not just the rebuilding of it.

Thank you to Net Galley and Forever Pub for my advanced copy in return for an honest review.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this poignant narrative by Annie Rains, readers are transported to a world where hope and healing intertwine. Savannah Collins, a recently unemployed woman, finds her life upended when her fiancé abruptly ends their engagement, citing Savannah’s recent Lupus diagnosis as the reason. The emotional toll of this unexpected turn of events is palpable, as Savannah grapples with the prospect of a shortened lifespan and questions her ability to fully invest herself in her passions, particularly her love for gardening and botany. Having transformed her passion into a successful social media influencer, Savannah is deeply disheartened by her diagnosis, which takes precedence over her efforts to manage her flare-ups.

Savannah’s Aunt Eleanor operates the Finders Keepers Library, which operates on a “take a book, give a book” premise, attracting avid book enthusiasts. The library’s location in Eleanor’s garden provides a serene setting for many patrons to find solace. However, Eleanor recently experienced a fall and a severe summer storm caused significant damage to the library and a portion of the garden. Not only concerned with her aunt’s welfare, as well as the urgent need for repairs, Savannah intervenes to assist. With a summer wedding scheduled to take place in the garden in a few weeks, immediate attention is required to address the damage.

During the ongoing repairs, Eleanor’s acute perception soon assists Savannah in recognizing her connection to Evan Sanders, an individual from her past who is assisting with the repairs. Several years prior, Evan had developed romantic feelings for Savannah but remained discreet about his intentions. Consequently, they now have an opportunity to rekindle their connection, and Eleanor assumes the role of guiding them. Her actions involve selecting suitable books for both Savannah and Evan that facilitate introspection and reveal their true emotions. Ultimately, they are presented with a chance to pursue love.

This is an exceptionally well-crafted narrative. The ingenious choice of opening each chapter with a distinct quote from a book, particularly those that I had personally read, significantly enhanced the reading experience. This literary device allowed me to draw meaningful parallels between the story and my own prior reading experiences, making it even more relatable and enjoyable. The author’s skillful use of quotes is a testament to their exceptional storytelling abilities.

Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion

[Sue Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life has Savannah on the ropes right now. If being diagnosed with lupus wasn't to deal with, being dumped by her fiance when he heard the diagnosis certainly was. With no job on the immediate horizon, Savannah retreats to visit her Aunt Eleanor. Every summer until she was nineteen, she spent with her. But unbeknownst to Savannah, Aunt Eleanor had a bad fall over the winter. Then after she arrives a horrific storm, tears the roof off the library that Eleanor maintained for the community and destroys the beautiful rose arbor. Returning the yard and library to their former glory is paramount is paramount as there is to be a wedding there in three weeks. Refurbishing the yard, has Savannah working with her high school crush who has fighting to reclaim a relationship with his 13 year old daughter struggling with the loss of her mother to cancer. So many stories are interwoven here to bring a smile to your face. Thanks to netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Amy Haden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for allowing me the opportunity to early read The Finders Keepers Library. This is the first book from Annie Rains that I have read and I was immediately drawn in by the characters. The story deals with real life issues surrounding loss of loved ones, grief, and disabilities but in such an encouraging and uplifting way. If you are an avid reader you will love the book references and quotes within this book. This is a sweet story and has me wanting to create my own garden library. I look forward to reading more from Annie Rains.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ADORED this second-chance romance so much. It was like reading a Hallmark movie!

The Finders Keepers Library is my first book by this author and I know it’s not my last. It was so well written and kept me engaged.

Each chapter started with a book quote and so much “bookish” talk was sprinkled throughout the book. I loved it!!

I fell in love with the characters, especially Aunt Eleanor. I recently dislocated my elbow and I connected with her and her fear of an accident happening again. Oh and sweet little June!

Thank you to NetGalley and Forever Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! This truly is a book about books, with every chapter beginning with a quote from a book. Needless to say, I tabbed quite a few pages. There is a backyard free library, rekindled friendships, loss and plenty of hope for the future. My daughter gifted this to me because it was about a free library and it is such a sweet story.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very sweet and heartwarming story. Book lovers will love this one! There are many descriptions of books and authors throughout for bookworms to enjoy. The romance was sweet and realistic. The addition of a sassy child was excellent and made the book come alive!

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars? 4 stars? This was a predictable, sweet story (sometimes so sweet it made my fillings hurt, as they say). It was safe and utterly predictable, but at a tough time of year, it was sort of nice to have something a bit mindless and easy. I don’t regret reading it, but I’m not sure I’d recommend it.

[Joni Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author is an auto buy for me from now on! This is my second book by this author and I’m totally smitten with her writing. It’s a heartwarming, sweet love story. Not just between people but a love story of books and community. I hope there is more books to come with these characters.

[Marissa Holloran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is just the most perfect sweetest book, cutie little romance with a perfect set of adorable characters and a perfect adorable love story

[Danielle B · Rating 3 out of 5]

Adorable!

The romance was so sweet between the MC’s and June was a fun, spunky character that it all worked! Eleanor and Charlie may be my favorite side characters, although, I kind of liked the whole town of Bloom!

“When you love someone, it’s a privelage to care for them.” 🥹

I see a Christmas book is coming out in this series and I can’t wait!

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, the sweetest love story I have read in a very long time!
Just made my heart so happy to read this book. ❤️

[Megyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Finders Keepers Library is a new romance book that reads like a Hallmark movie. We have a young woman, Savannah, who has lost everything after her Lupus diagnosis. She comes back to the place she spent every summer with her aunt. While there, she reconnects with her crush she had growing up.

This book was so cute! I loved all the book references and the library at the center of all of it. I loved the changing perspectives as well. We have a few love stories going on and they are all very cute. This book does have some series problems in it like Lupus and cancer, but they’re handled in a delicate way where everyone comes together.

The whole book reads like a hallmark movie and I really liked it. I would recommend to anyone who is looking for a palate cleanser or just a cute book.

Thanks so much to netgalley and forever for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review!