In Bloom

by Kat Jackson

Nicole Callahan is certain she has endured the worst heartbreak possible, and she’s in no hurry to dive back into the tumultuous waters of love. She insists that she’s absolutely fine being alone, but a part of her still wonders… To Avery Pullman, owner of a flower shop filled with thorns less prickly than her exes, the idea of love is just a disaster waiting to happen. She sees no reason to invite pain in, especially when she’s still tending to fresh wounds on her heart. Neither expects—nor wants—the tiny spark that ignites the moment their eyes lock. If they get too close to it, they might each have to face an uncomfortable truth—that they’ve never really known true love before. And that might be more terrifying than any heartbreak.

Genres: Romance

309 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 27, 2023

About the author

Kat is a thirty-something-year-old high school English teacher who has been buried in and under books for thirty-some years. Kat is a lifelong learner, and currently has two masters degrees: one in English Literature, and another in Clinical & Counseling Psychology. She puts far too much stock into words, so what better thing to do than become a writer? (Truth is, she’s been writing since she was twelve years old.)
Kat lives in Pennsylvania with her cliched three cats, a whole lot of books, and some houseplants that she tries very hard to keep alive…but honestly, they’re all dead except for one. Running preserves most of Kat’s sanity, and in her “spare time” she also works as a mental health therapist.

Librarian note: Multiple authors with the same name in the GR database; this author is entered with 2 spaces.

Reviews

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. It’s sad, funny, and emotional and had me hooked from the beginning.

Nicole’s wife died a few years ago but she thinks she finally may be at a place to start dating. Maybe. Avery has been in a toxic relationship for seven years and is finally realizing it may be time to move on. The two meet after connecting on a dating app. While the date doesn’t turn out like they’d expect, they can’t deny they have chemistry.

I wouldn’t call this a romance. There is a romantic subplot but this deals more with each woman’s journey of healing and moving on from their prior relationships. They each carry baggage and aren’t initially ready for each other. But I loved how the pull they felt to one another grows with each interaction. My favorite part was the process and the slow burn feel to it all. This is very character driven and Jackson is excellent when it comes to the characters.

This doesn’t have the traditional happily ever after but it definitely feels hopeful and that everything is going to work out. I’d love to read more about them in the future.

I received an ARC from Bella Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, well, where does one begin with a book like this?
The cover, it’s stunning, I love it.
The book is different from many others. It’s a story about grief and dealing with loss. The very physical loss of a loved one dying and the loss of a relationship, the end of a long period of uncertainty.
I think this story is told beautifully and I like how each character navigates their loss in their own way. Grief is a weird beast and everyone moves through it in their own way, at their own pace. You can only hope to find some people who’ll support you on that journey. And I think this is exactly the story this book tells.

I appreciate our main characters dealing with all this and moving slowly together. I’m very glad the author didn’t rush in I-love-yous and other intimacy.

If I were asked for a negative about this book I would say it’s the random sprinklings of astrology. It’s not a lot and really, really random and I could do without it.

[Clara Addicted to sapphic books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read mostly romance and I wouldn’t define this book as one. Sure there two people on the way of love, but the main subject here is healing. Whether it’s grieving for Nicole, or getting out of a toxic relationship for Avery. I had a bit trouble getting into the book at first, but I understand Jackson needed to take the time to really introduce the two characters, their wounds and what prevents them to thrive in their lives. Eventually, that's what makes readers really invested in the MCs happiness. When the two main characters start interacting with each other, it’s really endearing. I love the way Jackson put them on the same path in small and random ways like fate won’t let them give up on each other. There is nothing more satisfying than reading wounded characters get better. In this case, they don’t forget their problem by magic, they help each other working on themselves invidually. If you are looking for passion and spice this book might not be the one for you. If you want something sweet, delicate, with a realistic learning curve about self love and self forgiveness, a lot patience and communication, it definitely is.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grief doesn't just come from experiencing a death, it can be just as difficult to deal with when one experiences the loss of a relationship. The loss of what could be, can be as painful as death itself. Avery and Nicole are both trying to work through their losses and aren't ready to date, but sometimes that's when someone comes along who makes you want to work through that which is holding you back.
For anyone who hasn't read a book by Kat Jackson, I am not sure what you are waiting for. Her books have a maturity and depth that you won't find in many books, sapphic, or otherwise. Her characters have flaws, they are damaged and realistic. Despite their occasional resistance, they strive for personal growth and do the work to get there. Jackson also has an uncanny ability to bring humor into situations where you wouldn't expect to find it. As someone who uses humor as a way to deal with adversity, I appreciate this immensely.
Kat Jackson doesn't write fluff. You won't find an instalove story where the couple jumps into a relationship without thorough consideration. However, if you enjoy intelligent, technically flawless writing with layers of emotion and self-reflection, she is a writer whose writing you will appreciate.
In Bloom is a superb novel that kept me enthralled and cheering for Avery and Nicole to not only find happiness, but also to find closure. Kat Jackson's exploration of grief is the best I have read. She handles it with care, humor and hope. She is one of our best writers and I can't wait to see what she brings us next.

An ARC was received from Bella Books via NetGalley for an honest review.

[currentlyreadingbynat · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Bloom by Kat Jackson was an engaging read, though at times I found it challenging to fully connect with the story. The evolving romance between Nicole and Avery was interesting, but I felt somewhat distanced from being completely captivated by it. The real strength of this book lies in the individual development of the characters. Avery's perspective on herself and her relationships was particularly fascinating. I felt for Nicole and the way she was impacted by her grief. I will admit that closer to the end of the novel I was surprised by her continued interest in Avery despite the complexities in their relationship and the constant push/pull dynamic. I wish I saw more of why Nicole was so infatuated by Avery.

Kat Jackson consistently stretches the limits in her romance writing, and In Bloom is no exception. It's another intriguing book by the author.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Ari · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maybe a 3.5. The story kind of just ends......Maybe I just wanted more...idk

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a captivating and emotional journey. So often I say in reviews people have a hard time connecting because of their past relationships. But in this case one character is in the middle of trying to get out of an unhealthy situationship. Nicole Callahan has endured heartbreak and grief and is finally ready to be open to the possibility of dating. She meets Avery Pullman, owner of a local flower shop. Their first meeting does not go well at all. Avery is kind of a mess when it comes to her love life. I don’t want to share the details because the author writes about it so well. But I love the little spark between the two and that Nicole is more than willing to go slow and give the embers a chance to grow.

This is a slow burn story and emotionally thoughtful. I was actually disappointed when the book ended because I wanted to continue on the journey with these two. This story takes hard realistic situations and somehow lets you follow as characters give into anger, grief, and letting go. And somehow the author does it with humor and lightness. Supporting characters are great at encouraging and being sounding boards. And who wouldn't want Houston (the dog) to snuggle on the bed. And I love the comedic moments at the mortuary. I’ve had my own experiences laughing in release when planning funerals for loved ones. Again the author hit on something that is so realistic. The writing is beautiful and mature.

This is not your typical romance and I truly enjoyed reading it. Thank you to Bella Books for the ARC via NetGalley and I am leaving a voluntary review.

[Misha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kat Jackson is rapidly becoming one of my favorites based off her romances being intensely character-driven and about the deeply human problems that well-rounded characters experience.

In this one, we have two women who are incredibly damaged from their past trauma and slowly healing from different kinds of relationship issues in the past. The pace is slow and steady, by which I mean they meet and develop an attachment and romantic feelings at a very realistic and mature pace, as befits someone who has been deeply hurt by the past and is looking to cautiously move on while still honouring the heaviness of the past.

I have to say that being a part-time eulogy writer is one of the more interesting careers I've encountered in a romance and I loved the idea of someone being so close to death and kind of finding comfort in helping others honour the people they have lost and get through a difficult time.

If you enjoy rich character work and them slowly evolving as realistic humans would, this is the book for you.

[ReadingwithCaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not your run of the mill, happy go lucky romance. This story is an intense exploration of grieving, hurting, letting go and trusting again. It’s so beautifully written, it should be front and center on your TBR!

I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Nicole is slowly adjusting to her new life. After her wife’s death almost three years ago, Nicole went steadily through the stages of grieving. Slowly her world opens back up, but is she ready to focus on the future while her past is so, so painful? When she hesitatingly swipes right on a dating app, she can’t believe she actually has a match with a gorgeous woman. If only this woman, Avery, didn’t hide behind her own walls of hurt.

Avery has been stuck in a world of ‘what if’s?’ for the last decade. Pining and waiting for a woman that’ll never choose her. Is she ready to move on? After an awkward meeting with a beautiful woman from a dating app, Avery realizes she isn’t ready. But somehow the string that pulls her towards Nicole get’s sturdier every time they meet by coincidence.

Two women with a lot of baggage. I loved that they dealt with that like actual human beings instead of the story just being a rose colored romance. It’s simultaneously painful and heartwarming to read we are completely normal and not alone in the way we’re dealing with our own issues.

Jackson weaves sentences together like silk threads, smooth and irresistible. She writes emotions so well you actually can feel anger rising in your own body ready to explode. The inner turmoil of the main characters is described so accurately it’s impossible not to fall a little bit in love with them both just because they seem so real. The very specific way (don’t want to spoil it) Nicole uses to help Avery deal with her past is very emotional and just.. *chef’s kiss*.

This book actually ends at the beginning. As a true lover of sapphic romance I’m so invested I would love to see where Nicole and Avery are headed. But even now I have full faith in their connection.

If you’re ready to take yourself on a ride of true emotions and a search for the kind of love everyone deserves, read this, you won’t regret it.

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

A complicated possible new relationship.
Both women have issues. Nicole is a widow and Avery is hanging onto an 7 year hope for a relationship with an old girlfriend.
Nicole is more realistic. But I would have liked to have heard more about her wife. More about what she was like, why did she take her life and how did she take her life.
Avery was just was hanging onto a hope, that after 7 years, this person was going to choose her.
Interesting but complicated.
The writing is very good and I'm sure I will enjoy other stories by this author. But I couldn't relate to this one.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars
This author is new to me but I'll be looking for more of her work because I really liked this one. This story was not a typical romance novel but a rather serious story about grief and dealing with loss. The relationship between two interesting complicated leads was slow burn, and had time and space to develop. The story totally worked for me and I enjoyed it. Recommended.
eARC via NetGalley

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Kat Jackson book and it won't be my last. I was unprepared for the depth of story I was offered by Avery and Nicole's romance. If you are a fan of well written, medium stakes sapphic stories of love then this is right up or alley. It was for me.

Thank you to Bella Book and NetGalley for providing an eARC for a honest review.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is definitely a heavy one. It deals with grief, a lot of grief. Both Avery and Nicole have their own problems, and it's shown through the first few chapters, setting us up for their meeting. I loved this build-up, it made me connect more to the story and understand more about their circumstances. They seemed more human. Also, there was so much maturity in the conversations and their actions.
What i liked about this book was how it was written.There were so many emotions displayed from a simple sentence or an action. I loved the way Avery and Nicole's thoughts were written. They were engaging but really allowed me to get to know them better.
The romance development was slow. And i always love a slow burn, but in this case, it really made sense. It was the process of healing that was shown throughout the book and how they helped each other in similar circumstances. The chemistry between them was undeniable and i loved them together.
I was actually so immersed in the story that i read this in a day.
Obviously, 5 stars 🌟

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very pleasant slow burn, low-spice romance that focused heavily on individual healing and moving forward after personal loss. Unlike most romances nowadays there is no instant attraction or lust and the chemistry gradually builds through the story.

This was my first book by Kat Jackson and will not be my last. The emotional journey was very well written and the relationship that developed between Nicole and Avery was warm and sweet and I finished the book with a smile on my face.

[Silvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A slow burn ‘riddled’ with fear and pain and a disastrous first date. The loss Avery and Nicole experienced couldn't be more different but pain and grief are irrelevant of how and why the loss occurred. Kat Jackson takes us from grieving to healing to thriving in this excellently written book. A heavy read but a fascinating one none the less.

Free ARC via NetGalley

[Sue Plant · Rating 4 out of 5]

would like to thank netgalley and publisher for letting me read this book avery a successful business woman with her own flower shop but not lucky in love, she has been in an off and on again thing and really needs to either be the one or not but she isnt strong enough in herself to end whatever she is in... nicole has been struggling but she keeps on doing her thing, she is single and doesnt know how to go about dating again, she has a friend with benefits going on but its non emotional and its time to get out there and mingle so accidently avery and nicole swipe right and end up on a night out, but with averys baggage and nicole not being in the right frame of mind its not gonna go well.... and it doesnt but for some reason they also keep managing to bump into each other now .... this author has a way with words that makes you laugh out loud or to sit there is shocking silence as you read what is there... i did really enjoy this book for all that it covered with some serious stuff going on in it

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Bloom captivated me from the start. This is the story of two heartbroken women dealing with two very different forms of grief. Nicole and Avery's journey is emotional as they both are dealing with profound loss, anger, and how to eventually move on with their lives.The narrative was touching and tender in its portrayal of the two women healing and ultimately realizing they each deserve to be in a healthy, happy, and loving relationship. This isn't your typical sapphic romance. It is thought provoking and often evokes heart wrenching feelings as Nicole and Avery navigate through the complexities of their individual emotional baggage. I thoroughly enjoyed Kat Jackson's beautiful prose and heartfelt storytelling.

[Shimere Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that left me completely immersed in its emotional journey. Avery and Nicole had me captivated, with their back-and-forth dynamics between the two. Avery and Nicole both grapple with their own issues, and witnessing their growth throughout the book was truly refreshing.
This story offers a slow, slow-burning romance, intertwined with real and weighty themes. You can genuinely sense the pain and fear of intimacy in both characters, making them feel incredibly relatable. What I appreciated even more was the presence of well-crafted supporting characters who weren't afraid to call Avery and Nicole out on their BS when needed.

While the pacing of the story may be considered slow, the impeccable writing skill of the author makes it a non-issue. The narrative flows smoothly, and you get so engrossed that you hardly notice the passage of time. Additionally, the story's setting and descriptions make you want to open your own flower shop or find a barefoot Avery of your own. This story delves into the complexities of letting go, forgiveness, and moving forward, delivering a heavy but authentic tone. The author's raw and honest writing style adds depth to the story, making it a truly enjoyable read. If you're seeking a whirlwind spicy, instant love story, this isn't it. However, if you appreciate a heartfelt, slow-burning connection between two genuinely deserving individuals, then this is the story for you.

[Vita L. Licari · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't a typical romance story. We are introduced to two women who are both healing. One from the death of her wife, the other from a toxic relationship. They both want to make changes in their lives, and they help each other with starts and stops. This is a compelling story. You could easily say it's a slow burn, but it's so much more. A FAVORITE! Worth more than 5 stars!

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Bloom by Kat Jackson is an incredibly deep and poignant study on love, loss, and healing. The characters, Nicole Callahan and Avery Pullman, are beautifully crafted with depth and authenticity -- you can't help but hurt deeply for the pain these two women are going through. Jackson's superb writing skillfully navigates through the complexities of the women's lives and slow burn birth of a deep connection.

Jackson weaves a story that is emotionally thoughtful and mature. The pacing, though deliberately slow, is expertly handled, drawing readers into the intricate web of emotions and experiences that shape Nicole and Avery's journey.

One of the strengths of the book lies in its portrayal of realistic and relatable situations. From dealing with the grief of an actual loss, to dealing with the grief of a lost relationship, the book explores the challenges of letting go. The humor and lightness woven into these moments add a refreshing touch, making the heavy themes more digestible.

Houston, the dog, adds an extra layer of warmth and charm to the narrative. The comedic moments at the mortuary provide a unique and realistic touch, showcasing the author's ability to infuse humor into even the most challenging situations.

In Bloom is a perfect book for anyone who appreciates a well-written, medium-stakes sapphic love story.

Thank you NetGalley, Kat Jackson, and Bella Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Patty Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a classic slow burn romance. It started out with the main characters meeting on a dating app and going on a date, and, not putting their best efforts forward, to see if they were compatible.. Avery and Nicole were very opposite in how the approach their first date together. Avery was very skeptical about Nicole not having any major flaws and Nicole was just getting back into dating after grieving the death of her wife for a few years. Nicole was open to getting to know Aver,y but, Avery came off as a jerk and the date ended on a sour note soon after. When these two meet again Avery apologizes too Nicole, o this is where they slowly become friends then even slower lovers. I really liked the back and forth of this relationship, and the secondary characters were really interesting as well and added just enough too make this an even better story. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family, and I look forward to what's next from this author

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Kat Jackson book, but now I am obsessed. The cover being so minimalistic really hides the gem that is this novel. There is so much emotional turmoil in this novel and I was worried that it would overwhelm me, but thankfully I was mistaken. This was just a great telling of two women dealing with different forms of grief and trauma. How the characters worked through these issues not only told you about them but also about how as humans situations are handled so differently from person to person. The romance in this novel takes a backseat to the personal growth and development of the characters as they come to deal with their loss. Nicole’s being an actual death and Avery’s being that of a toxic relationship. This really didn’t have a ‘traditional’ happily ever after but it felt real and more heartfelt.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another multi-layered book from this author, who writes stories with welcome complexity, this one is an interesting exploration of two women's pain and their struggles to make new choices. Nicole is a widow, we find out how her wife died but precious little about why, which was a missed opportunity. Avery has been in a 7 year on/off 'affair', I would say. We are much more immersed in Avery's inner world and her attempts to break free, in a way Nicole's grief is easier to navigate, the way the book is written. I enjoyed the complexity and as usual with this author, the other characters are great.

Content warning there is a mention of suicide in the book.

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC of this book. Avery and Nicole both have tumultuous romantic pasts. Nicole became a widow at 39 and Avery has spent the last seven years in a situationship that is pure manipulation. Their friends all want them to have happy and healthy romantic lives, but when the two women meet on a dating site, their own issues from the past keep tripping them up.
This book felt so real and relatable. I think this dealt beautifully with the awkward pain of situationships and the hope that springs out of them. It also portrays how we let our pasts get in the way of our futures. I feel like this book is a story that will resonate with many people trying to live and love in our current dating culture.

[Domi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a typical book when you're looking for a romance, but I would strongly urge to read it and actually put it somewhere near the top of your list. Incredibly well written journey of 2 lovely women who have (or are) experiencing grief and who are able to help each other. Kat Jackson manages to really create two women that are written so well you feel they could be one of your friends and I felt for both of them during their journey. Really, just pick this one up.

[Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a cute book. One that truly shows the struggles that we all deal with in regard to emotional trauma, healing, and healthy/unhealthy relationships. Sometimes we are so caught up in trying to fix a relationship that will never go anywhere that we forget we are missing out on love that is truly made for us. I would definitely read it again, it’s one of those books that make me feel comfortable.

[Lucky Luc · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most raw and vulnerable books I have read in a long time. Jackson takes us through an emotional roller coaster that felt way more like real life than a “romance” novel (I use quotes because I know how much Jackson loathes tropes). I felt Avery & Nicole’s pain to my bones, which made the ending such a realistic and perfect one for their story. Strongly recommend.

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well written sapphic story following the journey of two women. The main characters are great, and you can't help but feel connected them. This was very intense. i recommend. Well done.

Thank you, Bella Books, and NetGalley for this ARC.

[Tempe Luvs Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Avery and Nicole, two ladies who met on a dating website. Both were looking for love, but both had to face certain truths and let go of something difficult in order to be free to accept new love into their lives. Both of their situations were so completely different, but yet needed to be resolved.
Life is interesting when one thinks about how many such scenarios are so true in so many relationships. I don’t need to spell out any details, but will say that the author did a great job of presenting very emotionally, authentic situations and examined the potential outcomes and effects of each.
Other than the emotional aspects of the story, the other storylines were fun and enjoyable. Avery owned a flower shop and we got to meet her employees and have a taste of her experiences. One interesting thing that Nicole did was to write eulogies for a funeral home.
I hope everyone will enjoy this as much as I did!

[Leigh McGrory · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, it was so beautifully written.

I wouldn't say this a full romance as it is more focused on healing and the characters finding themselves after heartbreak.

The characters are so well written in this story. I really felt like I got to know them throughout the book and experienced their emotions as if they were my own.

I loved reading this and look forward to reading more of Jackson's work!

A huge thanks to NetGalley and Bella Books for providing me with this arc