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Ivy Ridge #1

Flowers in Your Hair

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I met the girl of my dreams at my best friend’s wedding, but she slipped away like Cinderella at the stroke of midnight.

Josie
As a florist, I’m no stranger to hot groomsmen. So why is it that Andrew gives me butterflies? I missed my chance with him, but I’m ready to put myself out there. I sign up for a blind date photoshoot, and lo and behold, Andrew is who I see when I take the blindfold off.

Andrew
I spend two weeks trying to find my missing Cinderella, Josie, with no luck. It’s as if she’s vanished into thin air.
Oh, and I still have her crocodile clip. Or is it claw clip?
That is, until I get set up for a blind date photoshoot, only to see that Cinderella is my date. Talk about fate.
I’ve been waiting for my happily ever after, and Josie Carter is just the woman I’ve been searching for.

Author’s Note Welcome to Ivy Ridge! Flowers in Your Hair is a standalone, spicy small-town romance, and is the first in a brand new series. If you love strong willed, plus-sized heroines, and a man with a golden retriever personality who will do anything for his girl, this is the book for you! Please be sure to check trigger warnings listed in the front of the book. Take care of yourself. Your mental health matters more than a book.

384 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 22, 2024

203 people are currently reading
925 people want to read

About the author

Alice Daniels

8 books61 followers
Alice Daniels is a born and raised Minnesotan who loves to write books based on the small town she grew up in. Her books are sweet, heartfelt, and sexy, with relatable characters.

As a child, she was an avid fiction reader, which evolved into a deep love for romance novels and the community surrounding them. She recently discovered a passion for putting her ideas into writing and decided to pursue her childhood dream of becoming an author.

She spends time with her family and friends when she’s not writing, especially on the lakes or outdoors in the summer.

Follow Alice on Facebook, Instagram, and Goodreads for book updates, teasers, and future releases!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
Profile Image for RLbooks (in and out).
1,004 reviews483 followers
May 2, 2024
As other reviews have mentioned, this one's super sweet and fluffy with no angst. Andrew (H) and Josie (h) meet at a wedding where Andrew's the best man and Josie's the florist. She's new to town after ending a toxic relationship and is getting a new business started. Andrew's whole family lives in this small town and he has a generationally owned family woodworking business. Both of these main characters are adorable and kind. The whole book is character-driven from their meeting to them missing out on exchanging numbers, and then reconnecting at a blind date photo shoot, and then following how their relationship grows.

Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and neither are virgins (h hadn't slept with anyone in about a year I think and H isn't a manwhore but little is given on his dating history).

Andrew's perfect book boyfriend material with some silliness, all the supportiveness, and even though he's got some muscle, he's also got some softness (it's mentioned he doesn't have a six pack, good for him). Josie's driven to build something from the ground up. She’s also plus sized and does have some self conscious moments, but balanced with some lovely empowering moments where she's more confident and asks for what she needs. There are multiple explicit scenes that were decent. Both like going down *ahem* and there's one semi in public (but not in view of the public, they're in a bathroom) encounter. Their relationship moves very quickly, Andrew starts the book ready to settle down and find his person so when he finds Josie again, he's immediately holding on and so is she. They still take time before the exchange of I love you's though, which I thought was nice.

Lots of supporting characters, but primarily Andrew's family and friends, who all welcome Josie with open arms. Her family also spends time on page, but less so. One emotional shorter plot line involves a family member that did make me get teary, but also doesn’t end in tragedy thankfully. For my friends who dislike childhood friends who are in denial that they should be together, it should be noted that one of Andrew’s brothers and his bestie have been told by everyone they belong together and both actively fight it (their book is the next one apparently). It did get frustrating seeing these two side characters painfully fight their feelings. Josie also had to deal with an awkward plot point involving her best friend and her ex that I wasn't certain what the point of it was since no true drama rose from it and Josie's avoidance of them and eventual lack of true confrontation over the situation sort of made it fizz out in an odd manner. It gave off immature vibes to me for all parties.

From a writing perspective, the writing style didn't wholly draw me in and I did feel it read a bit mechanically in places. I think there could have been some more development to smooth out some of the descriptions, esp when it came to actions. I also think this book could have been pared down some considering its focus on the characters rather than being plot driven. Sometimes it was a little cheesy, but I did like their dates, lots of cute moments of bonding, and each has a pet that is precious (Josie has a cat and Andrew has a dog) so yay small animal companions!

The last couple of chapters are short time jumps ahead and underscore how perfect Andrew and Josie are together, further cementing their relationship and Josie’s successful business. The book does end with them getting engaged and was super sweet. I tried really hard not to constantly use sweet in this review, but it was hard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Brittani.
191 reviews
March 19, 2024
“How can I pick when all I want to do is taste you again?”
“I won’t stop you.”

4.5 ⭐️

✨Small Town
✨Missed Connection
✨Low Angst
✨Golden Retriever MMC
✨No 3rd Act Breakup

Josie has just moved to Ivy Ridge to start up her own business being a florist. After six months of only doing small events, she gets a call for her first wedding. Andrew, the best man, gets told to help Josie with whatever she might need, and he takes his job very seriously. There’s an immediate connection between Josie and Andrew; however, by the time the wedding is done, Josie heads home. Weeks have gone by, and Andrew gets convinced to sign up for a “blind date photoshoot”, where he just so happens to find his Cinderella standing right in front of him after taking off their blindfolds. Was this a coincidence, or a set up? Either way, he’s not letting Josie get away this time.

This book is the pure definition of a cute and fluffy, small town Hallmark romance, with a dash of spice. Or two. Okay, maybe three. But seriously, this story was so heartwarming and sweet and cute and all of the wonderful things. I loved the insta-connection between Josie and Andrew. It’s a nice palette cleanser sometimes with a low-angst romance read, and this one was done so well. I really enjoyed this book as the start of a new series and getting to meet all of the new characters. The storytelling was amazing and made me feel like I was right there with the characters.

Andrew is pure golden retriever boyfriend material. He’s a complete sweetheart, extremely supportive, and has such a goofy vibe about him. The best part was that Andrew has a golden retriever, Travis, and I swear they’re twins. Josie is a perfect representation of someone I look up to and who I aspire to be. She’s incredibly strong, goal-oriented, compassionate, and loyal. I love how Josie isn’t afraid to speak up about what she wants with Andrew during intimate moments, while Andrew is always there to make her feel confident and comfortable. Both main characters in this story are amazing and perfect for one another.

I did receive this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Huge shoutout and thank you to Alice Daniels for the ARC of this incredible story. I’m so excited to continue reading this series, especially Marley and Beau’s story!!
Profile Image for jada.
311 reviews91 followers
April 9, 2024
i feel bad rating this so low but the writing just didn’t work for me. i felt like i was reading something straight from wattpad

it wasn’t bad and it was pretty much exactly what i expected it to be. a light, fluffy cheese fest but i just couldn’t get past the writing style 🤷🏽‍♀️

Andrew and Josie meet bc she’s the florist for his best friend’s wedding and he’s tasked to help her with whatever she needs. there’s a missed connection and two weeks go by before they’re set up for a stranger photoshoot by Andrew’s friend Marley. their relationship is very fast paced from that point.

i wish there had been some more drama or something. maybe with the friend that started dating her ex?? idk something !!

i probably won’t go forward with this series. not only bc of the writing style but bc friends to lovers is my least favorite trope and i just have a feeling Marley & Beau’s book will make my blood boil
Profile Image for Ti.
31 reviews
March 20, 2024
4.8 stars

Small town romance: check
Golden retriever carpenter MMC: check
Spice: check


This is my first ever read by Alice Daniels and let me say, it surely won't be the last! This is the first book in the Ivy Ridge Series and I believe that this series will be NEXT LEVEL after the impression this first book left on me

This is a heartwarming contemporary romance read that will get you hooked from the first few pages. It was extremely well-written, the romance was heart-stopping, the spice was not too much but was enough to make your panties wet.

Our FMC is Josie, who is a new florist in town who gets her big career break in the town by providing flowers to Issac and Megan's wedding where she meets the best man of the groom, Andrew who is tasked with helping with whatever she needs on the day. It is pretty much love at first sight - Josie leaves before Andrew can talk to her and ask her on a date, but they are later reunited by a mutual friend and photographer from the wedding, Marley who enlists their help for a 'stranger' blind photoshoot idea and it goes from there...

Boy oh boy, Andrew - the mouth on this man, OH MY GOODNESS. SMITTEN

Thank you so much Alice for providing me with an ARC copy - I loved every single second of reading and cannot wait for the next books in this series
Profile Image for Angela.
276 reviews32 followers
dnf-did-not-finish
September 1, 2025
Putting this on pause at 40%

This is very sweet—too sweet. They’re already together and so in love already. I can’t do 200 more pages of lovey dovey. I’ll come back when I’m in the mood for a simple easy read.
Profile Image for Holly Schwartz.
842 reviews38 followers
September 4, 2025
This is seriously such a sweet book! And a perfect first in a series! I am already so invested in all the characters, I cannot wait to read the rest of the books! I saw some character art online that Alice posted and I immediately downloaded the book! And it turns out she’s from MN and that’s where the books are set. Which is an almost automatic love for me!!

Andrew and Josie were SO GOOD! Their instant attraction, Andrew’s attempts at finding her!! Marley secretly working to get them together again!! How easily they folded themselves into each other’s lives! It was just GOOD! Don’t get me wrong I LOVE tension and angst and yearning!! But also sometimes watching two people just being so head over heels in love and letting the other know it straight away is so much fun!! And that’s what Josie and Andrew were! Two sunshine people deliriously happy to have found each other and who aren’t looking back!! And from what I’ve gathered from this book, I think the other books are going to have more tension and angst!!

I also love love love all the body positivity in this one, and what I’m expecting to continue in the rest of the series!! All the women are plus sized and HAPPY about it! Not every day is a perfect body day, that’s also unrealistic! But they are not looking to change who they are for anyone!!

Anyway I can’t wait to keep reading this series!!!
Profile Image for Lynnmarie542_books.
398 reviews34 followers
March 31, 2024
Author’s Note: Welcome to Ivy Ridge! Flowers in Your Hair is a standalone, spicy small-town romance, and is the first in a brand new series. If you love strong willed, plus-sized heroines, and a man with a golden retriever personality who will do anything for his girl, this is the book for you! Please be sure to check trigger warnings listed in the front of the book. Take care of yourself. Your mental health matters more than a book.

My thoughts:
Omg this book started out so sweet. Then the “fake bride” had me crying from laughing so hard. And the fact that Andrew isn’t 6’7” is so refreshing 😂♥️.

Our FMC is Josie and she owns and runs her own flower shop (out of her garage)

Our MMC is Andrew and he….works with wood! Ha, no pun intended. He is also crushing on Josie!

They Meet at the wedding of Andrew’s bestie Isaac. But he never got around to asking for her number so she poofed like cinderelly.
Now they match up in an unconventional kind of dating application. And it does not disappoint! I’m swooning here!

Andrew and Josie are inseparable after that and I’m here for it. This is a slow burn for me but when the spice hits it hits!

This book has such a cute story and an adorable happy ending. I can’t wait for the next in the series!
Profile Image for Destiny.
179 reviews7 followers
August 22, 2025
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A sweet, soft, and all-around feel-good small town romance. 🌸

Josie and Andrew meet at a wedding—she’s the florist, he’s the best man. They’re instantly drawn to each other, but Josie dashes off when her work is done, leaving behind a single claw clip like Cinderella’s glass slipper. 👑 Andrew, not ready to lose the girl who could be his dream, searches high and low for her. Swoon.

This book is pure sweetness. It’s not about big drama, it’s about soft, quiet moments that sneak up on you. There’s no miscommunication, no third act breakups; just chemistry and no tension because of the lack of angst. Josie and Andrew’s story has that small-town warmth, the kind that makes you feel cozy inside. It’s tender, charming, and left me rushing into the next. 💕

Sometimes all you need is to slow down and enjoy the gentle moments of romance. I loved the plus-size rep, the maturity of characters my age group, and just the overall realness of them.
Profile Image for Claire Schaller.
47 reviews1 follower
August 29, 2025
I love these two and I think this would be a great beach read!! I think it's important to have plus size female main characters in media and as a plus size women it's refreshing to see a connection that felt so romantic and sincere.

This book is not for everyone I am a massive pessimist and I found that the evil gremlins in my brain wanted to say mean things. But overall I enjoyed the read.
Profile Image for Karina.
1,237 reviews20 followers
dnf-2024
April 27, 2024
DNF 48 %
It’s as if the author read a couple books and decided to put all the cliche lines in this one.
Profile Image for Becca.
409 reviews9 followers
July 27, 2025
I went into this book completely unsure about what to expect and am beyond grateful to say that I loved this book - just truly loved it.

Josie is an incredibly wonderful woman - she's a florist that's just starting out in a new small town and I really loved her personality! There are some body image things that come up from her toxic as hell ex - so be a bit mindful of that if it's a trigger for you! There are trigger warnings at the beginning of the book so please be mindful and take care of your mental health.

Basically Josie is a woman trying to go after her dreams after quite a bit of toxicity from an ex - and I loved how the book spelled out just how unafraid she is of the hard work needed to achieve them! A last minute situation sends a wedding her way and I found myself wishing I could see her flower arrangements! They were described so beautifully! Little does she know that the wedding is going to truly make SUCH a difference in her life going forward.

Andrew is a sweetheart of a man - he's a guy that loves his family, his friends, and his work - he's running a family owned woodworking business making absolutely gorgeous pieces of unique furniture (again, why can't we see these things for real!?). At the wedding he agrees to help Josie and there are some intense sparks - I loved their meeting and just how cutesy it was.

Their meet-cute led to a cinderella moment with a hair clip & a sneaky friend/sister of his planning everything out so that these two could give it a shot.

I loved every single one of Andrew's family - but am for sure partial to his grandpa! I loved how they all took Josie in and just loved her so much. The whole segway with her former best friend was beyond brutal; but the new (true) girlfriends that she makes are well worth it!

Overall this is a really fun and fairly easy read with a cute happy ending!
Profile Image for Helene Svendsen.
519 reviews27 followers
February 9, 2025
3,5⭐️
This was a very sweet, insta love, small town romance. It was almost a bit too sweet, cause there was no drama.
The book follows Josie and Andrew, Josie is a florist trying to start her own business and Andrew is a woodworker where ehe took over the business from his grandfather.
I do like their story, but it is a bit bland. There are some very cheesy scenes as well.

He nicknames her petals, which I think is very cute.
But he also calls her Josie-girl and I found that a bit cringe.

The fmc is curvy, and I love the fact that it’s not the normally thin fmc.
But something that really annoys me is the fact that the cover has a thin woman on it. This is something I’ve noticed happens a lot, that the cover shows thin persons but the actual character in the book is plus size/curvy.

This is the first book in a new series, who will follow the brothers of the family. And next is Beau and Marleys story, which this book made me very curious about and definitely wanting to read.

Overall I did enjoy the book, it was a very feel good story.
Profile Image for Madison Armstrong.
55 reviews
March 22, 2024
4.5 stars ⭐️ this book made me forget I was reading, I was really captivated by the characters and Jocie had me hooked from the beginning. Such a cutsey romance that just makes you feel good. I can definitely see myself returning to this book when I need a pick me up :)

Also looking forward to purchasing my own physical copy… I had the pleasure of receiving this as an ARC copy ebook. 🫶🏼
Profile Image for Sonia.
138 reviews
April 4, 2024
This book was a simple, easy to read, cute romance. And like other reviewers have said, there wasn’t a lot of major drama that happened between the two MC’s. The were PLENTY of “spicy” 🌶️🌶️🌶️ scenes that you’ll like if you like that sort of thing 😉 … One thing I DO wish that the author did do more of is talk about all of Josie’s (the MFC) insecurities more. Like Josie COULD have TOLD Andrew (the MMC) all her insecurities instead of just keeping them all in HER thoughts all the time, especially during the first s*x scene. And that’s another thing: we (the reader) are TOLD that her ex- was awful, but we need actually SEE how awful he was to her. Sure, we get glimpses of it here & there, but we never actually ever get a flashback scene with just her (Josie) & the ex- … Maybe if we got at least one flashback scene, then maybe it would have explored those insecurities more … ?? Just a thought … 😉 Also, another thing that didn’t quite make much sense is the fact that Josie waited OUTSIDE the hospital room of Andrew’s grandfather (don’t worry, the grandfather didn’t die, so NOT a major spoiler 😉). Like, why exactly is Josie waiting OUTSIDE in the hall instead of just going in to see Andrew’s grandpa’s room to see him?? Are friends really not allowed to visit or something, only family?? But then it seems like she DOES go visit later on … so I don’t know 🤷🏽‍♀️ … It just all seemed very strange to me. Another thing that didn’t quite make a lot of sense to me was the model for chosen for the cover; she’s not what I pictured as Josie at all. If Josie is supposed to be a “curvy” woman, then maybe don’t make a woman as skinny as a pencil as the cover model for the book?! Just another thought! 😅 But, all in all, other than maybe digging in more deeply to Josie’s insecurities, I liked the story a lot (hence, the 4-star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating). Also, I cannot wait till this author gets more popular & starts having audiobooks to go along with the Kindle versions! I think her books will make really good audiobooks too!! 👍🏻☺️
Profile Image for Amanda Parker-Heck.
153 reviews4 followers
March 23, 2024
Flowers in your Hair by Alice Daniels
⭐️5/5⁣⁣⁣
🥰Small Town
🥰Golden Retriever MMC
🥰Plus Sized MFC
🥰Stranger Photo Shoot
⁣⁣⁣⁣
Josie and Andrew are the definition of Soul Mates! If you looked up the definition you would find there picture!

Josie has just moved to the small town of Ivy Ridge. She is getting over a broken heart that wasn’t to hard to get over. She is starting her own Florist company and is just ready for a fresh start. While working her first solo wedding she gets paired with Andrew. He is one of the groomsmen for the wedding. He is super sweets and kind and in no way still single. Which is a bummer because she feels the sparks. Josie gets to know the photographer from the wedding and she signs up for her strangers photo shoot.

Andrew is ready to find his one true person. He wants to settle down and find his special someone. At his BestFriends wedding he is tasked with helping the florist. Little did he know this would be his favorite part of the wedding. Because there is no way the florist is single. She is so sweet, gorgeous, and boy does she get his blood flowing. But she is probably not single and Andrew misses the opportunity to ask her out.

Well guess what, Marley the wedding photographer and Andrews brothers’ best friend convinces him to do a stranger photo shoot after his search for the new florist leads him no where. However, guess who he sees when he turns around, his very own Cinderella. The search is over and he is not letting Josie Go. Not Happening. Let’s just say you will fall in love with these 2 with every turn of the page. I was so sad when this story ended because I wanted to keep watching there love grow and grow.

Andrew had one of the biggest hearts and Josie will do anything for Andrew because he makes he so happy. This is a couple I would look up to. I could not put this book down and I hope to see more of Andrew and Josie in the next book!

I would highly recommend this as your next read!
Profile Image for Tanya.
629 reviews37 followers
April 1, 2024
4.5 Stars

Flowers in Your Hair, written by Alice Daniels, is an adorable small-town romance with low angst, a missed connection, and no third-act break-up! This is my first book by Alice, and I truly enjoyed the introduction.

Josie is a florist who just moved to Ivy Ridge to begin her new business. After a few months, she finally gets the opportunity to do her first wedding, and everything must go perfectly for this perfectionist. Andrew, the best man, gets voluntold to help the attractive Josie. Of course, Josie and Andrew have an instant connection, but by the end of the wedding, Josie is gone. After a few weeks, Andrew is convinced to sign up for a blind date photoshoot. Will he meet the woman of his dreams? Will there be a second chance at a connection, or will it be another lost opportunity?

I really enjoyed the strong-willed, curvy Josie. I have always been a fan of a plus-sized main character; for me, it's easier to relate to. She is confident and strong-willed. What annoyed me was that the cover had a thin girl on it when Josie was not. Andrew is my favorite type of MMC - the golden retriever boyfriend! He is just adorable. A perfect amount of spice is perfectly placed in the storyline.

This book is the starter for a series, and I am excited to jump into the rest of the series as they come out! Small town is one of my favorite tropes, and I really enjoyed it. Alice did a wonderful job with all of the characters, and it was easy to get caught up in the story immediately. I was engaged and flipped those pages to find out what happened next. After reading a darker book, it was a great palette cleanser and helped me get out of a slump.

Thank you so much to Alice Daniels for gifting me a copy of Flowers In Your Hair. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Rebecca Middleton.
101 reviews2 followers
March 13, 2024
- Arc Review -

This was such a heartwarming book. It was an easy, quick, feel good contemporary romance. It’s about a couple who meet once at a wedding and then he spends weeks trying to find her even though they live in a small town. However, Josie just moved to Andrew’s hometown and is an introvert. Josie is a florist who is starting her own business and working out of her garage to save money. Andrew is a woodworker who took over his family company but is becoming desperate for a loving connection after seeing the love between his best friend and his new bride. After no luck of finding his dream girl, Andrew agrees to a stranger photoshoot that is set up by his brother’s best friend(a photographer). This is where he is blindsided because the stranger ends up being the dream girl he has been searching for.

This storyline progresses so naturally and with realistic details of a real life couple. These two are so attracted to each other that they just don’t want to spend time apart. They quickly start falling in love and couldn’t stop the quick progression of their relationship even if they wanted to.

There are difficulties with their pasts and family’s that they work through together. Being with Andrew shows Josie exactly what she deserves and has been missing from previous connections. But the book also depicts how friendships can be just as toxic on one’s life as romantic relationships with the wrong people.

This is the first book in the Ivy Ridge series. Each book will follow one of the four Cunningham brothers as they find their person. The next book is about Beau and Marley, and let me say that this book is expected to have some serious angst and banter based on the breadcrumbs from the first book!
Profile Image for Betsy Chapman.
374 reviews13 followers
March 21, 2024
📚: Flowers in Your Hair by Alice Daniels


Tropes:
👉 Small Town
👉 Plus Size FMC
👉 Cinnamon Roll MMC


TWs 😟: Fat Phobia, Discussion of trafficking and drug circles


Main Takeaway 🏹: Sweet and Spicy and oh so good!


Synopsis 📜: Josie has just moved to town and started a new flower shop when she books her first wedding. While there, she meets and connects with the best man, Andrew, but as the day goes on, she assumes he has a girlfriend and leaves the wedding before he can ask her out. Andrew spends the next two weeks searching the town for her only to be set up with her on a blind date photo shoot by their meddling friend, Marley. After that, Josie and Andrew are joined at the hip, finding themselves falling hard and fast for each other.


Personal Thoughts 🤔: Andrew is a literal puppy and I’m obsessed with how much he wants Josie from the moment he laid eyes on her. I was acting like a giddy school girl through the entire book. These two are just so sweet but still so spicy when they finally get to that stage. This isn’t a slow burn by any means but Andrew has grand ideas of taking things slow and making sure that she knows he wants more than bedroom activities with her. Like I said, Andrew is a literal puppy. Josie is so relatable to me and I hate that she had such a crappy ex-boyfriend and best friend who didn’t appreciate her for exactly as she was but am so happy it led her to true happiness with Andrew like she deserves. I also loved the easter egg appearance from Alice’s previous books. I have been with Alice since her very first book and every time a new book is released it becomes my new favorite, they are all so good!


Profile Image for Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily).
1,599 reviews117 followers
March 11, 2024
Flowers in Your Hair by Alice Daniels is so flipping cute and swoony! She gives us two characters, Josie and Andrew, who are just absolutely meant to be.

Tropes:

🌸 Small town romance
🌸 Curvy florist FMC
🌸 Golden retriever carpenter MMC
🌸 Missed connection
🌸 All the swoon
🌸 No third act breakup

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Angst level: 💔

After breaking up with her long time boyfriend, Josie is starting over in a new small town to start her florist business. What she doesn’t expect is to find the love of her life at a wedding she’s working, only to miss exchanging information with him.

Six weeks later she agrees to do a stranger photoshoot, only for her missed connection to be her photoshoot partner. And the chemistry that they had at the wedding is still there for both of them!

Will the chemistry still be there for them in the long term?

Andrew and Josie are so sickly sweet together and I just loved them so much! Josie is one amazing character and I loved her confidence in and out of the bedroom! I loved how she took control, which is a role reversal from what is usually expected.

I loved how infatuated Andrew was with Josie from the start. It was so adorable how he made his feelings and intentions known from the start.

Also, screw the problematic people in Josie’s life!! God I just wanted to throw hands at one of them throughout this book.

Now let’s talk the next book - please let it be who I think it is because the angst between these characters is going to be off the charts!!!
Profile Image for Deanie.
833 reviews22 followers
March 13, 2024
This was super freaking cute!!

Andrew and Josie originally meet at a wedding and had an immediate connection but sadly the timing just wasn’t right. Insert Marley and a sneaky bit of match-making and they have a second meet-cute! I love the premise behind the strangers photoshoot and I loved that Marley helped it all come together.

Andrew was perfect for Josie. He definitely fell first and was head over heels for her from the get go which was adorable. You could tell her really cared for and he was constantly boosting her confidence and just being there for her. In turn, Josie fit well with not only him but his family too. The scene with Lennie at the first brunch made my heart squee! I also thought it was precious how much she loved Travis the dog 😂

The scenes with Tessa and Zack made me rage. I was so ready to go to the bat for this imaginary character and I’m so glad that not only did Josie stand her ground but she has Andrew backing her 100%.

I loved that there was no third act breakup! This was such a sweet, feel-good story with only loved up vibes and it was the perfect palate cleanser for me.

Overall this was a really sweet, fun, fast-paced small town romance with big family vibes too. It was definitely insta-love but it wasn’t cheesy or cringey at all. There were also plenty of Easter eggs about the next book and I cannot wait for that one. I have a feeling it’s going to be rife with emotional tension!
Profile Image for Amie Lynne.
Author 5 books12 followers
March 25, 2024
Flowers in Your Hair brings us to the small town of Ivy Ridge, where newcomer florist Josie works her first wedding with the assistance of groomsman Andrew. Despite their chemistry, Andrew fails to get Josie’s number, and their missed connection culminates in a stranger blind date photoshoot with Josie’s new best friend, Marley.

If you’re a fan of sweet romance with a little bit of spice thrown in for good measure, you’ll adore this book. Josie is a heroine we all want to root for, as she grows her business from her garage to her dream of having her own storefront. For me, Josie grows throughout this story far more than Andrew does (and that’s not a flower pun, either). We get to see her tackle her insecurities with her own body image, thanks to her ex Zack and former best friend Tessa, and build up her confidence as her business expands. We love a confident woman in this house! Andrew, on the other hand, feels a little static, though he does win points for being the best supportive partner anyone could ask for.

For me, this story lacked some of the conflict and tension that helps bring a romance together. Throughout the middle of the novel, Zack and Tessa keep calling, and reaching out, and Josie just… ignores them completely, saying she’s not ready to talk. It’s a valid answer in real life, but in fiction, it comes across as boring. When they finally do talk, it’s a quick conversation with some insulting answers, and it comes across as lackluster. Zack and Tessa could have been used to amp that tension – and maybe Andrew could help Josie relax in fun ways.

My favorite part of this novel was probably Andrew’s grandfather, Earl, who reminded me of my own grandfather who passed a few years ago. It made me smile to think of stubborn old men who don’t want to accept help, or the fact that they’re growing old, and how much that relationship means to Andrew.

(I also loved the little cameos to Alice Daniels’ first series! No spoilers, though!)

Overall, I’m happy with this read, and I’m excited to see what comes out of Ivy Ridge next!
Profile Image for Mikayla.
45 reviews
March 22, 2024
This is the perfect book for spring!! Josie is a florist who starts fresh in a small town called Ivy Ridge. At her very first wedding event she ends up getting help from one of the groomsmen, Andrew, a local bespoke wood craftsman. Things between them spark instantly, but when Andrew wants to get her number after the wedding she is already gone. The way they are reunited is amazing! This book is cozy, filled with amazing imagery of flowers and I feel like I’m walking through Ivy ridge with the amount of detail that is put into the book! It was really good pacing, and the development of Josie’s character is so inspiring. She finds herself and becomes more and more confident throughout the book. I LOVED Andrew’s support and encouragement he gives to Josie and her dreams. Reading and getting to know Andrews family feels like a giant hug and I want Gramps to be my grandpa.

If you’ve enjoyed Alice Daniels Cinder Valley series like I did, you’ll love the couple of Easter eggs that bring some of those characters into this series! I can’t wait for the next book in the Ivy Ridge series, the details that were dropped in FIYH make me itching for the next couple.

Overall, another great book from Alice Daniels. She never fails to provide a good story, relatable characters, amazing spice, and something to bring tears, with a beautiful ending. Would 10000000% recommend!!!
Profile Image for Virginie.
332 reviews3 followers
February 7, 2025
I’m not going to lie, reading Flowers in Your Hair did me a world of good. I think the fact that there’s no angst in the relationship between the two MCs played a big part. Sure, things aren’t always a bed of roses in the book, but their relationship is beautiful and doesn’t suffer from a thousand complications.

Josie and Andrew are just as sweet. You can tell from the beginning that Cupid has used his bow and arrow to bring them together in a strong relationship. One thing I really liked was that after their first steamy date, Andrew wanted to take his time with Josie to prove to her that he wanted a serious relationship with her and that it wasn’t just about their irresistible physical attraction.

I’m not much of a family-oriented person, but the Cunninghams almost made me want to have brunch with them every Sunday. They’re an incredible family, the kind of family most people can only dream of having. Not to mention Travis and Velma, because who doesn’t love MCs with pets?

If I had one small criticism, it’s that I was often more invested in Beau and Marley’s tumultuous relationship than Josie and Andrew’s smooth one. That’s why I’m going to read Never Really Mine straight away.
Profile Image for Abbey | bookishandme.
311 reviews7 followers
March 22, 2024
Happy Release Day Alice!

Welcome to Ivy Ridge. When Josie has the last minute opportunity to provide the flowers for a wedding, I doubt she expect she would walk away with an instant connection with the best man Andrew or the gumption to sign up for Marley’s (wedding photographer and best man bestie) stranger photoshoot sessions!

Alice did fab job with this book. I loved the instant connection between Josie and Andrew and how they both were able to support one other with the hiccups they encounter. Andrew is the embodiment of a golden retriever boyfriend and I adored his unwavering support of Josie and overall adorable vibes. Josie as well is such an empowering woman and it was fab to see her be so compassionate, dedicated and loyal.

The stranger photoshoot was such a refreshing take on a second change connection and fitted the characters perfectly. This book was definitely a little steamer than Alice’s last books which I loved but felt authentic to the characters.

Shout out to the little cameos from Cinder Valley - I’m a big fan when authors connect their different series together with micro details.

I cannot wait for Marley and Beau’s (+ the rest of the Cunningham brothers story)

🌼Small Town
🌸Missed Connection
🌼No 3rd Act Breakup
🌸Golden Retriever MMC
🌼Instant connection
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
441 reviews20 followers
March 22, 2024
***ARC REVIEW***
Name: Flowers in your Hair
Author: Alice Daniels
Rate: 4.75 🌟

~If you are looking for a contemporary small-town romance then you need to check this one out! It’s a very cute book! Josie moves into a small town to begin her floral business. She is a curvy woman and let’s just say that doesn’t even stop her from finding a new love! She ended up meeting Andrew during a wedding event she booked. He was the best man at the wedding and was assigned to help her. Who knew that this is where their attraction will start! They were just meant for each other… Now Josie did end a long-term relationship when she moved to this small town, so she was very cautious to date. But when she found out her so-called Best Friend was already dating her Ex-boyfriend… Yeah, I don’t know… that right there was just grimy... I would have cut her off completely… then she kept pushing to still be friends and requested that she lose weight… yeah like NOOO... Like girl bye!!! You need to read the story to find out why I’m saying this… But other than that, the story is great! It’s a sweet spicy romance! Fast paste! Which is great!!!

Tropes: Small town Romance, Curvy Florist FMC, Golden Retriever Carpenter MMC, Missed Connection, All the swoon, no third act Break up, Standalone
Profile Image for Sarah | Retro Girl Reads.
1,617 reviews92 followers
March 27, 2024
“Flowers in Your Hair” is the first book in Alice Daniels’ new small town romance series, Ivy Ridge, and it was Andrew and Josie’s story. I’m such a fan of the “he falls first” trope, and this book definitely delivered!

Josie is a florist, and she and Andrew first meet at his best friend’s wedding. He really liked her, but since she’s new in town, he had trouble finding her afterwards. Luckily for them, a friend intervenes, and they meet again during a blind photoshoot date.

I really loved Andrew and Josie. They were a genuinely adorable couple, and although their feelings developed quickly, I don’t think their story really qualified as insta love. They just knew they were meant to be, and I fully supported that.

Andrew was a total sweetheart. He was obviously obsessed with Josie, practically worshipping the ground she walked on. He was a good man, exactly what she needed after what she went through in her previous relationship. I also loved how close he was with his family.

I also thought Josie was a lovely and kindhearted person. It was incredible to see the way she thrived once she was settled in Ivy Ridge. I loved how welcoming Andrew’s friends and family were towards her, as well! I definitely recommend to any small town romance fan!
Profile Image for Meagen Barth.
52 reviews3 followers
January 8, 2025
"Flowers in Your Hair" by Alice Daniels is an absolute petal-perfect romance! This light-hearted tale follows Josie, a curvy florist with a heart as soft as rose petals, and a hidden dirtiness in her new-found confidence. Enter Andrew, the charming curly-haired woodworker who does nothing to hide his heart of pure sunshine. He falls first, and he falls HARD- trying to coax his friends into helping him find his 'Cinderella' from her lost claw clip. Said friends have a plan up their sleeves to connect these two semi-strangers. Their chemistry blossoms like a wildflower in spring and just as instant. Every interaction feels as sweet as a freshly picked daisy and will have you smiling softly as these two fall in love and Josie gains a new family and best-friends worthy of her.

Alice Daniels weaves a story that’s as vibrant as a garden in full bloom, filled with tender moments, playful banter, and just the right amount sizzling tension and heart-eyes.🌷

If you’re looking for a story that’ll leave you smiling and rooting for love and self-discovery, this book is a perfect quick read. I’m absolutely daffodil-ighted to recommend it and I cannot wait to delve into Marley and Beau's story! 🌼
Profile Image for Lisa.
572 reviews
September 5, 2025
Sorry, not sorry, but I’m going to be gushing about how much I love this book.

🎀Anytime the FMC is a plus-size girlie, I’m already sold. There is something some wonderful about being able to see yourself in a book. See yourself being loved and worshipped. Hearing that curves are a turn on.
🥰 Sweet Andrew was the most yummy cinnamon roll of men. I love how he is head over heels from the second he meets Josie. He ends up being her biggest supporter, biggest cheerleader, her best friend.
🎭 I loved that the drama wasn’t between the two main characters. They were just living their happy life. And yes, there were conflicts and issues happening around them, but they handled them together. And even when there was a moment when Josie could have been a drama queen, she instead handled it like a reasonable adult and showed up when Andrew needed her the most - even after his faux pas.
👴🏻 Earl. Full stop. Gramps is the best. I love that he calls her Cindy!
👯‍♀️: Props to having Josie not fall back into the toxic past relationships. I love that Marley became the best friend a girl could have.

Don’t mind me jumping immediately to the next book. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖: KU
Profile Image for Jordyn Michaela .
9 reviews13 followers
March 21, 2024
Searching for a meet cute, insta love, small town romance with plot and spice? Flowers in your hair should be added to the TBR!
I absolutely adored this feel good story featuring Josie, the town’s newest florist, and Andrew, Ivry Ridge’s woodworker, and their immediate connection.
I loved how Alice Daniels wove a Cinderella underlay to this tale with Josie’s forgotten “alligator clip” for Prince Charming (Andrew) to go off of. His love for his family shows, and I loved
How his “little sister” schemed her way into their date and helped bring the two together. The Cunninghams immediately bring Josie into the fold, but also help her to live out her dreams and do things her own way.
I loved Andrew’s golden retriever/sunshine personality but how protective he got over Josie and his willingness to do anything to help her. Josie's independence is to be celebrated, but she also learns she can accept help and with hardwork and dedication is able to live out her dream.
I loved this book and look forward to the continuation of the Ivy Ridge series as they follow the Cunningham brothers through their love stories.
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