The Blooming of Delphinium

Moonberry Lake #2

by Holly Varni

As far as hidden talents go, Delphinium Hayes is blessed with one of the more unique ones. With the slightest passing whiff, she knows someone's most admirable or weediest characteristic. This peculiar perception never fails to give her an advantage in life--until she meets two men who turn her world upside down. Mason McCormack has agreed to help her with a group of seniors who have taken over her flower shop as their hangout. But his assistance is not without its price, and Delphinium agrees to compensate him with beautiful bouquets that seem to possess a bit of dating magic. Elliot Sturgis, director of The Gardens Assisted Living Facility, is determined to discover why a group of his residents keeps sneaking over to Delphinium's shop to play poker in the walk-in refrigerator. He soon finds himself as enchanted by Delphinium as everyone else. But his devotion to following the rules and maintaining order does not endear him to the shop's owner. Sparks fly as opposites attract and love finds a match in Delphinium's Flora Emporium--even for those who resist it the most.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Contemporary, Christian, Family, Christian Romance

320 pages, Paperback

First published September 24, 2024

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

“What am I going to do with a refrigerator full of elderly men?”

I wasn’t sure how Holly Varni was going to top my love of On Moonberry Lake, but boy did she ever! The Blooming of Delphinium had me snort-laughing from beginning to end, with a couple of bouts of ugly-crying to balance it all out lol.

I have discovered something about myself in the last few years. I have a thing for adorable and/or hilarious older people. If you want to find the way to my heart in a book or TV show or movie (besides the romance), throw in some quirky and sassy senior citizens. Something which Holly Varni does in abundance in The Blooming of Delphinium. I guffawed frequently over the antics of the local senior living residents who have suddenly taken over the back room of Delphinium’s florist shop in protest over the rules at The Gardens assisted living home. Complete with a hunger strike (except for their snack demands for Delphinium), sneaking out of the home ‘in disguise’, and later staging a hilarious sit-in gone amuck (on an issue unrelated to The Gardens), these wily characters took over more than her shop – they took over Delphinium’s heart, and mine, as well. Watching them come alive under her friendship and how she truly saw them touched me as well. But yeah… expect to laugh a lot in this entertaining novel.

“It’s like dealing with delinquents. They’re always one step ahead of you.”

But as I also mentioned, expect to shed a few tears as well. Loving a handful of senior citizens (and they really are a handful haha) means having your heart broken sometimes too, and that certainly is the case in this story. Varni crafts these emotional scenes with tenderness, affection, and lots of love which, yes, may bring on an ugly cry or two but it also makes it so worth the read. (Seriously, mostly you’re laughing in this book so don’t let a few tears scare you away.) And then there’s Delphinium, the star of our story (though I’m pretty sure the band of rebels from The Gardens steals that distinction pretty early on lol). She’s grown up feeling like an outsider when it comes to her creative gifting and her straitlaced parents. Still feeling the loss of her beloved grandmother who was gifted with a similar form of synesthesia, Delphinium now faces what feels like losing her all over again as her florist shop struggles financially. Varni delivers some tenderly-redemptive character growth here, and one scene in particular really touched me (and had my eyes welling up yet again).

OH! and the ROMANCE. Can’t forget that. Though… I don’t want to say too much about that for the sake of avoiding spoilers. Suffice it to say, however, that there are sparks aplenty, some delicious romantic tension, and a marvelous enemies-to-more/opposites attract love story going on in the background here. Of course there are the usual obstacles and miscommunications but it’s all leading up to a delightful resolution that I think will make you smile as much as it did me.

Bottom Line: The Blooming of Delphinium is charming and hilarious and heartfelt. Varni’s warmy and witty writing voice draws you instantly into the story and vividly defines the characters until they leap off the page and into your heart. I found the synesthesia aspect of the story to be fascinating and it added some intriguing layers to Delphinium’s character as well as others – everything I love about magical realism but about an actual sensory phenomenon. Themes of seeing someone for who they really are, investing in the lonely and giving them a place to belong, giving second (and third) chances, and loving people for all their uniqueness, quirks and all, resonated with me, and the swoony romance simmering throughout this delightful story was icing on the cake. It deserves more than 5 stars just for making me laugh so much and FEEL so deeply.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holly Varni is a skillful writer; she ever so subtly welcomed me into the small Northwoods town of Moonberry Lake, Minnesota, and enchanted me with her immersive small-town narrative stuffed with unforgettable characters, authenticity, grit, humour, and bighearted drama.

The sense of place and the power of community captivated me. Moonberry Lake’s charm gives rise to big personalities, all of whom are definitely created from the setting. The gentle rhythm of small-town life is the perfect backdrop for the quirky townsfolk and the comic relief they provide. The half-naked poker-playing senior runaways hiding out in the back of her shop, their demands and their retaliation strategies, kept me giggling. I also loved the blooming of Delphinium Hayes; uncovering what makes her tick, watching how she deals with customers, and seeing how she makes room for unexpected love.

I think what I loved most was that Delphinium wasn’t willing to compromise to make a sale. It would have been the answer to her financial woes, but it would mean selling her artistic soul. I admire that quality. I also love it when a book drives me to Google and I had to see a photo of a Delphinium bloom to appreciate the Greek origin of the name.

You’ll want to move this one to the top of your ‘to be read’ pile! Varni expertly navigates the challenges of this close-knit enclave in an engaging way and creates a story that will resonate with a wide variety of readers on a personal level. I know you’ll be immersed and captivated with Varni’s spotlight on belonging, the varieties of human experience and will appreciate recapturing that long-forgotten feeling of hometown pride.

I was gifted this copy by Revell and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! What a riot these senior citizens are. While free-spirited florist Delphinium is the main character of the novel, it's the rowdy group from The Gardens Assisted Living Facility that steal the show. The things they say and do had me cracking up. Their antics start in the beginning and don't let up.

Delphinium is a genius at creating just the right bouquet for a given occasion or person, but her artistic flair doesn't seem to come with a side of business smarts. She's at risk, high risk, of losing her beloved flower shop which is located in small town Moonberry Lake, Minnesota.

It's a beautiful cover and the pages between show what friendship and community can do.

My gratitude to the author and publisher (Revell) for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Deena Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excuse me…I’d like to report a theft.

It seems Holly Varni has stolen my heart with her newest novel.

I’ve laughed. I’ve cried. And my heart overflows with the joy that is this story.

From the insanity of the rebel seniors to the stiffness of the local care home director to the impulsiveness of the flower shop owner, the story is simply magical.

I was completely captivated from the first page. I wonder what Delphinium would smell when she encountered me?

Curious? You simply have to read this book!

My thanks to the publisher for an advance copy. My review has not been solicited and I can only hope for more incredible stories from the residents of Moonberry Lake.

Because that’s where my heart is.

[Chautona Havig · Rating 5 out of 5]

After On Moonberry Lake, I was eager for the second book--first because I just wanted more time in Moonberry Lake. But even more, I was eager to see what Varni would do with the series as it continues.
She delivered. Oh, boy did she deliver.
This book is deeper, richer, packed full of faith, and oh my gravy FUNNIER than On Moonberry Lake. It deals with difficult topics but never gets heavy. I laughed aloud through nearly every chapter.
And... my heart is fed with the faith playing out on the page. Bless Elliot, I so appreciate him.
Cannot WAIT for the next.

[Rachael Loscher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so cute and unique! I loved all the senior characters! The love that Delphinium had for them and they for her was so sweet! I couldn't put the book down!

[Chelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely LOVED this book! I enjoyed “On Moonberry Lake” but I loved this one a bit more. I was immediately drawn in to this story and loved getting to know Delphinium and the senior citizens in this book more. They were so quirky but so heart warming too! If you enjoyed the characters in the first book, you will absolutely love these ones!
Thank you Holly Varni for the complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in my review and completely my own.

[Brandi Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful read filled with tons of laughs, heart, and charm!

There was so much to love about this one. The mayhem of the seniors that Delphinium loves. The cute crush that her beau has on her (I’ll leave you to figure out which guy it is 😉). The relationship she has with her grandfather-like figure, Henry. Her ability to get a sense for people’s personalities based on their smell (except for that one person).

This book was filled with likable side characters, tons of shenanigans, and a FMC you that was easy to root for! It was sweet and entertaining. A solid 4-star read for me!

Thanks so much to @revellfiction for the gifted copy to read and review! All opinions are my own.

[Olde American Spirit · Rating 4 out of 5]

I attempted to read book #1 in this series before jumping into this one even though it seemed that the only connection between the two was the place- Moonberry Lake. I quit reading book 1 because I was bored. And I hoped this book wouldn’t bear the same results.

These two books couldn’t be more different! Yay.

I found this book unique, funny, and interesting. The wit of the main character, Delphinium, and the old senior men that wanted to play poker in her flower shop’s freezer had me laughing through the whole thing. Until one of those same men had me crying. Well, that was unexpected.
Seriously though, the senior men and women were a hoot and the stars of this book!


This story kept my attention throughout (which is hard to do). I was pleased with all the patriotic and uplifting messages and the faith and healing and great quotable words it contained.

I felt it could have removed about 10% of the end to shorten it and we could have done without the part that made me cry at about 80%. Sad! 😢

For the humor of the seniors, the faith, and the good vibes for most of it, I give it 4 🌟

I received a complimentary copy of this book & this is my honest opinion ✨

[Nikita Wells · Rating 1 out of 5]

So there were some things I liked about this book, and some things I definitely didn't like.

Positive elements:

I loved the banter between Delphinium and Elliot. They were hilarious!

Henry and Helen, both residents at The Gardens Assisted living center were two of my favorite elderly characters in this book. Despite their advancing age, they took time to help and encourage the other townsfolk.

I also liked Delphi's best friend Lindsay. While we didn't see a huge lot of her in the book, she made a difference in Delphi's life and stuck by her side.

The redemption/full circle arc near the end with someone's parents was very nice.

Negative Content

Language: one use each of fool, oh my gosh, a couple uses of screw up and screwed up.

General Negative Content: an elderly person asks if Delphi properly seduced the nursing home director. *cringes*

A couple mentions of strip poker, (this doesn't happen, but is referring to a couple elderly men who like to play poker sitting in undershirts and bed shorts.) One of the elderly men decides to take off his pants and sits there playing poker in his underwear.

Obviously the man had some mental problem or age disease, but him threatening to do that is a running "joke" in the first part of the book that I didn't think was funny. I felt bad for him cause it's clear he had some problem. A mention of a flapper dress.A elderly woman tells a man if he wasn't so old, they'd have him neutered. *cringes*

If it wasn't for the negative content above, this could have been a five star read for me. Unfortunately though, I can't recommend this book as is.

The ending though, was perfection.
*chef's kiss*.

I recieved a complimentary paperback from Revell to review through Interviews and Reviews. I was not required to write a positive review, and the thoughts above are my own.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a heartwarming book that has all the feels, look no further than The Blooming of Delphinium by Holly Varni.

This is the second book in the Moonberry Lake series and can be read as a standalone. For those who read On Moonberry Lake, you will be delighted to see our favourite ornery character, Widgy, appear in this one as well.

The author has once again captured the heart and soul of living in community with others. Her cast of characters are vibrant, realistic and well-developed. The seniors who “invaded” Delphi’s shop were a hoot. At first, they seemed to be obnoxious as they took over the shop and seemed to disregard Delphi’s feelings. But, as time goes on, you realize that these seniors always have something up their sleeves.

I loved the special ability Delphi had and how it helped her detect a person’s personality just by smelling them. I loved how Delphi “smelled out” her perfect match in the end.

I was disappointed that the faith thread was not carried through in this book. The book hinted that Delphi did not have a relationship with God and that others did, but no one ever followed through to help her find God. To me, that was a missed opportunity.

In the end, though, this book was a delightful read and full of so many surprises and chuckles that I could not put it down. I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell through NetGalley for my honest review.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

“In a small town like Moonberry Lake, one’s personal business is everyone’s business.”
This second book set in Moonberry Lake has a wonderfully quirky set of characters. Delphinium Hayes has an uncanny ability to recognize a person’s personality traits by their unique flower scents. Her gift of discernment can be a help or a hindrance leading to some very funny moments. But the core of the story is her heart for the senior citizens at the local nursing home. As they take over her flower shop, the fun begins. The oldsters have boycotted the facility run by Elliot and the sparks not only fly between the residents and the administration but between Delphinium and Elliot. “A relationship needs sparks, not grenades.” “Both make an impact and can start fires, he smirked mischievously.” “ We spar.” “That’s something.”
There is much to love about this book from witty banter, comical characters, an enemies-to-more romance to a solid portrayal of admirable values and spiritual growth. There are end of life issues , forgiveness and reconciliation all wrapped up in a humorously entertaining plot. The book has all I could ask for in an uplifting, amusing tale that has lots of take away lessons. I loved revisiting Moonberry Lake and its inhabitants.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Revell Reads Program and NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot remember the last time I read a book that made me laugh as much as this one. There were giggles, full belly laughs, snorts and more as I read. I mean, Holly Varni writes in such a way that the story comes alive - not just visualizing the story but being immersed IN the story. I was there when the older men were found in the fridge playing poker. I was there when a certain man walked into the flower shop wanting flowers so he could break up with someone. I was there through all of it - laughable and cryable.

The thing that made this story great was the characters. I don't just mean Delphi and her love interest. I mean the secondary characters - all the elderly. I have some special people in my life that I actually pictured as these characters because they have just as much spunk. I have so much respect for the elderly, and have empathy for those who maybe are struggling like our characters are. And Varni just really highlights them as people. Reminds us that though they are older, they can still have fun. And older people....well they tend to just share what's on their mind - good or bad - without a filter. And that's what made this story utterly delightful.

That being said, there were some sad parts, as expected with the elderly involved. But it wasn't just that. Delphi's character need to grow, and with growth comes some difficult moments in life. She went through so much and at times I was crying along side of her. The balance of humor, romance, character growth, and yes tears, was just perfect. This is a book I can easily see myself reading over and over again!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in the Moonberry Lake series. We read the first book in our Book Club in August & many of us loved the quirky characters and the small town. I really enjoyed this 2nd book even more. The main character, Delphinium was very creative, unique and sweet. Her relationship with a bunch of seniors that come over to hang out at her flower shop is very fun to read. Delphinium, being so young, is still so gifted at relating to their needs and exudes compassion, patience and wisdom. The seniors are just a hoot. The romance parts were a surprise. I wasn’t sure how the author was going to go at first but then read a certain chapter & was like “Oh, this is getting good”. The seniors antics & the conversations were an absolute joy to read. I kept thinking I need my 88 year old mom to read this. You get a couple glimpses of a few prior characters from the first book but they are very minimal. A pleasure to read!

[Laura Robinson (naptimereaders) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve become such a fan of Holli’s work! She has a delightful way of creating her characters that are full of life, and this book is no exception. The Blooming of Delphinium is packed with lovable and hilarious elder characters who truly steal the show—they had me laughing out loud more than once!

Delphinium is a sweet character. I loved watching her personal growth throughout the story. One of my favorite touches is her unique ability to “smell” flowers on people, which reveals their true nature. It was such a quirky and original idea that added an extra layer of charm to the book.

The plot was a joy to follow, and I’m really enjoying this fun series. If you love quirky characters and heartwarming stories, The Blooming of Delphinium is a must-read! 🫶🏽

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lyrical writing, fun characters, and a cute storyline makes this book all the worthwhile.
Love this author’s style of writing……just an all around feel good story with a few laughs squeezed in between.
5+ stars!🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Blooming of Delphinium is the second book in the Moonberry Lake series but can absolutely be enjoyed just fine as a standalone as well.

This was such a charming story and quite different than what I was expecting (though I couldn't really say what I was expecting, just that this wasn't quite it!). Delphinium has a rather unique sense of smell--- in that she can smell people in a way that others can't with various floral scents that tell her of their personality. This unique gift of hers definitely intrigued me and kept things interesting in the story. I found in the beginning I wasn't sure where the romance in this story was going to go... but I found it to be a really sweet one. More than anything though, I loved the sense of community that this book gave. Somehow, Delphinium found her flower shop turned into a getaway of sorts for the senior citizens in the community... and what a group this was! The antics they got themselves (and her) into had me laughing out loud throughout the story--- even as it dealt with tougher topics like loss in the midst of it too. I really couldn't help but absolutely fall in love with the unique cast of characters and enjoying every minute spent with them.

**I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

[Sarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was so much more than just a contemporary story about a flower-shop and some elderly folks.

It was about not judging people on first impressions (or
Delphi’s case, smell) looking further than what you see, realising that the elderly still wants to add value than just sitting around.

I enjoyed all the scenes featuring the elderly, they were like naughty high energy children and added a few moments for laughing at their antics.

Delphi felt and did life with a deep passion and I enjoyed how the author brought her love story to the page.

*I received a compliment copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

[Darlene Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to LibraryThing, NetGalley, Holly Varni, and Revell publishing for providing this advance reader copy (ARC) of the book. I'm providing my honest review.

I found the story of Delphinium and her special gift enchanting, people's personalities being tied to a floral scent is unique. Her devotion to her business and the people around her is a pleasure to read, she truly cares deeply and sincerely. Allowing an ever-growing group of feisty senior citizens access to her shop cooler is funny. At first she's thrown for a loop and tries to figure out how to get rid of them but as the story moves along she becomes the loving caretaker these rascals need. Everything from providing snacks to making sure they take their meds, she's all in by the end of the book.

The two men who come into her life are polar opposites, Mason and Elliot. Mason, a real estate lawyer, gets dragged into the seniors proposed lawsuit against the senior living facility for silly stuff like taco Tuesday and spa day. His involvement with the gang begins to change him for the better little by little. His journey to happiness may be a secondary plot line but it's fleshed out as much as possible. Elliot is the facility director trying to figure why his residents are sneaking around to hang out in a flower shop. Elliot is so strait-laced you'd think he'd be unlikeable, the seniors think so, but his sincerity in wanting to understand and work with the residents makes him the good guy after all.

The story is clean and while not necessarily religious it does have God and faith as part of peoples make up. The happy ever after is sweet and I was completely satisfied. An enjoyable read.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed being back in Moonberry Lake, and yes this can be read alone! We are with Delphinium Hayes, she is the owner of the flower shop, and also she has a very rare gift, she can smell people, and that smell tells her all about that person. Then a man comes into the shop, and he has no scent, why? We find out, and that will keep you page turning.

I loved the senior citizens, and their harried director, they are protesting, and using her flower cooler. All different perceptions here, and we are there for the chuckles! They are protesting, and boy does that list grow, often quite silly, but they are having fun, and in the end they are there for Delphi!

This was such a great read to get lost in and I am hoping for more Moonberry Lake!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

[Shannon · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was sad, truly boring and it was a slow slog to get through it. I thought I would love it based on the description but nope.
Really the only thing I enjoyed were the elderly friends that were using her walk in fridge at the flower shop to play cards because the anssisted living facility didn’t allow it and the arc was broken. I also appreciated the descriptions of the bouquets and what they meant.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.

[Nancy Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a quirky, charming, whimsical story! It makes me want to smell everyone I meet, find a group of seniors and befriend them, and call my parents. I’m officially hooked on Moonberry and everyone who lives there!

[Robin Tobin (On the back porch reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Different than volume 1 of the series. It has a different style and flow to the characters. I love the focus on the care of elders. We don’t get a positive storyline on this very often.

[Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher, Revell (a division of Baker Books), for providing a complimentary copy through their Revell Reads blogger program. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.

I read the first book in the series, which I got through the Revell Reads program as well.

And, like that one – this only as a singular POV – Delphinium’s. I was hoping to hear from some of the previous book’s characters, as well as the POVs of the other new characters too.

Only three characters from the previous book appear, some are only for one scene –

🧰 Widgy (cranky handy-woman)
👗 Cora
🦷 Ben

New for this book:

📖 Gurdy (tutoring Paavo)
👵🏻 Arlene
👵🏻 Joanna
👵🏻 Helen
🩲 Charlie (one of the older gents, likes playing poker in his underwear)
📊 Henry (had been sweet on Delphinium’s grandmother, helps with the “books”)
🃏 Patsy
💼 Elliot
⚖️ Mason (real estate attorney)
🧘🏻‍♀️ Lindsey (Delphinium’s friend and a personal trainer)
🪖 Bob (Vietnam War vet)
🃏 George
📰 Kathryn (news reporter)
💐 Paavo (works at the florist shop)

Like I did in my review for the previous book, I described Widgy as similar to Ouiser (Shirley MacClaine) from Steel Magnolias (1989). That was the the ONLY way to describe this woman. She learned her “trades” through her five deceased husbands. This earned her the nickname “marry ‘em and bury ‘em” Widgy.

She does make some rather crass and dark statements about the group in the freezer as she’s the one responding to the service call to get it up and running again 😲🫣

I do recommend reading the previous book prior to this one even if this can act as a standalone.

That said …

Some themes in this book might be a bit problematic for some readers – nursing home conditions, death, grief, old-age issues, financial issues, false/exaggerating news reporting, and war injuries. There’s also a bit of questionable language (screwed), as well as the mention of strip poker, and a reference to neutering a male (said as a joke).

There are some references to Winnie the Pooh characters as well as a Star Wars character.

The author starts right off with Delphinium and her gift, much like she did with the first book and Cora’s mom’s gift. For those expecting a supernatural type read – this isn’t it.

Delphinium then learns some of the elderly guys from the local assisted living/nursing home facility have taken to using her half-functioning cooler as a poker hall. Before long, the air conditioning being out and the issue of playing poker turns into a list of complaints – bad food, lack of entertainment, no recreational activities. Delphinium can somewhat understand.

That is until Bob sees the director of the facility walk in.

Elliot comes off as strict, yet his “scent” reveals a different side. Since Delphinium has developed a rapport with the older folks, Elliot is hoping to use her to come to an agreement.

While some of the group’s complaints are valid, Delphinium then sees the growing demands “bloom” into near-impossible and unrealistic.

But, Delphinium is facing another battle – trying to keep her store and apartment from foreclosure.

As a result of the unusual circumstances, a reporter comes to visit. During the course of the debacle, Delphinium learns that some people have an agenda.

In the middle of this, Delphinium is dealing with an irritating male customer (Mason) who not only decides to “represent” the seniors, but he uses the flowers to either woo a woman or to dump her. Delphinium refuses to use her flowers for “evil”. Mason becomes a regular, but this time, he is trying to woo a woman (and I easily figured out who).

It isn’t long until a quirky little outing turns into a convoluted circus. One that will either help Delphinium keep her shop and home, or one that will see her locking up the doors.

It’s not just the seniors who rally around Delphinium, but the community as well in this quirky story that has a lot of heart.

I was drawn to the story from the cover which has such a springtime and happy vibe to it. And, I had to slightly laugh about Delphinium’s gift of “smelling” people. Not that I don’t think there are people out there who have a slightly supernatural gift, because I have my own gift about people. But, as someone who LOVES perfume, and gets near-monthly free perfume sample boxes of the luxury brands (from a major department store), I could only imagine how confused Delphinium would be about me.

I wanted to love this book, but, the disconnect hit before I got 10% into the book. For me – it was a bit too much of a “downer” 🥺

I think the reason I had such a disconnect with this story was how close it was to a situation I am going through. There were too many real-life issues for this to resonate on a happy note with me. Delphinium almost losing her home is something my mother and I went through back in 2022, and is a worry even today. We are renting and worried each year if we’re going to be offered a renewal. In addition, the name of the facility in this book was also quite similar to a horrible facility my mom had been in over the past two (2) years.

Since September 2022, my mother has been in SEVERAL skilled nursing facilities. All but one were seemingly “good”. One thing they all had in common – low staff, very few “caring” staff, horrid food, definitely more focused on their profits over their residents. Some facilities even canceled doctor’s appointments to avoid taking residents (at least in my mother’s case). In December 2023, I had to sign my mom out against medical advice (AMA). There were several “excuses” given, in addition to a lack of care and other details I can’t go into for pending legal reasons. Her surgeon was grateful I did.

On September 15, 2024, my mother had an injury stemming from a fall in a skilled nursing facility that required surgery (her hip), and no less than four (4) personal injury attorneys refused to take her case. I’m still looking for legal counsel for her. To be honest, I was also a bit jaded about the attorney taking up the case of the unhappy seniors, even if he wasn’t his area of specialty – or even offering to use his connections to help them. From the attorneys I’ve been around, they feel sorry for us, but that’s where it ends. In addition, one of the characters is dying and then mentions hospice and morphine (which my mother is on). From there, it was just too “real” for me.

I do have to state that the HIPAA/patient privacy issue was well done, though there seems to be some debate in the health industry as to WHO qualifies to be told certain information. Even in the same state. Some facilities share with emergency contacts, next-of-kin, or caregiver. I am all three to my mother, and recently? Very little information has been shared, even with her permission. So, I very much understood Elliot’s reluctance to share with Delphinium. I also felt she was far too emotional and immature to understand the situation he was in. I do love how forgiving he became of her.

Speaking of Elliot and Delphinium, there was also a lack of romance for a book categorized as a Contemporary Romance. While there was some hint early on in the book, anything between Delphinium and Elliot took place in the last 5-10% of the book. Anyone looking for that “romance” – it’s kind of a VERY slow burn. The majority of the book is either Delphinium dealing with Mason, or wrangling the seniors.

For me, it felt as if the back cover blurb and the story itself was what some might call a “bait & switch”. The “terrible conditions at a nursing home” for a plot isn’t something I was expecting. And, having watched what my mother has gone through, it wasn’t as funny as it was seemingly portrayed here. With the humor and unrealistic demands, it came off as a bit tone-deaf to the real conditions often faced and experienced by our most frail and vulnerable – particularly the abuse and neglect that is a reality. I will state the complaints about the food – 100% realistic. I’ve even eaten some of it (and Bob wouldn’t have liked the tater tots) 🤢

Because of the real life experiences my mother went through, and the topic of this book – that’s why I’m leaving the neutral review. Not every book will resonate with a reader. That isn’t the author’s fault. However, I think the main plot of the nursing home/assisted living conditions had potential. There are some truly detestable places out there, and I can easily name half a dozen (6) of them in my area. This could’ve been used in a different way or an entirely different book. The lively seniors were a delight to read about.

This had an uneven pacing style. It either sped up or slugged along. There was one typo I did notice, but nothing major that would alter or affect the plot.

This isn’t a bad book, but it wasn’t one that has a high “re-read” factor for me. As I am curious to see what Varni has planned next for the characters; especially Lindsey and Mason; if there is another book in the series, I will probably read it.

As this is distributed by Revell, a predominantly Christian publisher, I was surprised that some themes didn’t come into the story until over halfway. When they did, they were barely noticeable.

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not having read any books by Holly Varni, I wasn't quite sure what to expect with The Blooming of Delphinium. Wow, I loved it. It is a delightful story that kept my attention from beginning to end. I loved the humor, the sweet romance, and the characters (some of which were a hoot!). All around just thoroughly enjoyed the book! I was given a complimentary copy of the book through NetGalley and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, "The Blooming of Delphinium" by Holly Varni. There is a spark of something between a flower shop owner, Delphinium and the director of a nursing home who is baffled by the residents who are revolting over everything. The seniors from the nursing home are very quirky and on a mission to liven up "the joint" and their lives so escape to Delphinium's flower shop to live how they want to live - the men playing poker shirtless in the refrigerator at the flower shop as well as some helpful older ladies who love helping out in the shop. All of this is going on as Delphinium is on the brink of financial ruin and may lose her shop as well as the safe place the seniors have as a home away from home.

Between the antics of the seniors and the budding romance for Delphinium who can tell a lot about a person from the floral scent they emit, this book keeps you entertained from beginning to the end. I kept laughing at so many parts of this book and I kept wondering what these older folks would get up to as it went on. Through it all, our heroine grows into the person she's meant to be and just might find the romance she's looking for.

This is a faith filled book with so many good, encouraging words pointing the reader to Christ and what we have to look forward to in heaven someday. I was encouraged by this book and hope other readers can find that as well. I liked the faster, entertaining pace of the book and had a hard time putting it down.

Thank you to Revell Fiction and Netgalley for an opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Blooming of Delphinium is a delightfully quirky tale I thoroughly enjoyed. Holly Varni takes readers on another fantastic journey in the town of Moonberry Lake. 4.5 stars

The story's filled with quite a variety of characters, from the assisted living facility there's the seniors who are a troublemaking handful that have their director Elliot at his wits end. Then there's Delphinium and her senior friend Henry who gives her financial advice about her beloved but struggling flower shop. Delphinium has the trait of being able to "read" a person based on their scent. So much fun! Elliot is a classic beta hero, but he still manages to express himself pretty well, eventually.

There's a lot of love and care shown in this story and Varni does a beautiful job expressing it on the page. I highlighted quite a few quotes but here's a few favorites,

*"No matter a person's age, they want community. The deepest longing in all of us is a sense of belonging."
*Letting go of your pride and humbly asking for forgiveness are always big pills to swallow. It's best to do both in one gulp."

I appreciate Revell Publishers making a copy of The Blooming of Delphinium available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.

[Beverly Ann Beauchamp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book and how well the author pegged the different personalities from those living in the Senior Assisted Living Home to other people living in that small town helping each other other out and getting in the way of one another. It felt good to laugh and even wipe away a few tears. I sure won’t say no if Holly Varni decides to continue with a third novel with more folks living in Moonberry Lake. She is definitely an author that brings out the authenticity in her characters.

[Candy Asmus · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this extremely sweet & cozy series. I just love the characters & the author’s overall writing style. And I cannot wait to read the next story from Moonberry Lake.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the author's debut novel, On Moonberry Lake, and was eager to see if she could top that one.

She did. In spades.

I was laughing within the first few pages, but when a flower shop owner finds retired men in pants and undershirts playing poker in her walk in cooler...you have to chuckle.

There is so much in this book: feisty senior citizens pulling a coup against the retirement center they reside in, humor...lots of humor, romance.....and heart. I found myself thinking that many times as I read this novel in one sitting. This book has heart.

Although there was much to laugh out loud about at the shenanigans of the retirees, there was also the somber look into how much they need something to do. Delphinium was such an awesome character, and I loved how she dealt with the older people and loved them, and how they loved her. Though the way she reacted to some things - like in relation to Elliot - made her difficult to like at times.

Elliot was also a great character. With his being the guy running the retirement center the older people were intent on escaping, his and Delphi's relationship was not destined to be a calm and boring one. Far from it.

The scent thing with Dephi was different. I Googled it, and it is something that exists. Interesting.

As with the first book, there are humorous clips from the town newspaper, and Widgy makes a couple of appearances, the second appearance to drop a very unwanted gift off for Delphi.

The town's reactions and actions in regards to Delphi's problems were awesome, and the protest of the retirees was awesomely funny.

There was one "how could you?!" moment the author did towards the end of the book, but I still consider this an awesome read. It is difficult to give a book like this the kind of review it deserves, and I mean that. It was moving, it was funny, it made me laugh, it made my eyes water, it made me think, it made me smile. The author has a talent for weaving humor, small town happenings, interesting and unique characters, hope, and serious life changing moments and coming out with a story that is definitely worth reading. And a book that deserves more than the 5 possible stars.

Special thanks to the publisher for an advance copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.