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Wildflower Ridge #1
In Full Bloom
"I can’t believe I’m back in this godforsaken town."
Katie Barton once swore she'd never return to the small town of Kauri Creek - the only place that's ever felt like home.
But when her life falls apart and her best friend needs her help running the Wildflower Ridge ranch, that's exactly where she finds in the local bar, in a town she hates.
A one night fling with cocky cowboy, Dallas is just the thing to cheer her up about her whole situation. A bit of fun, then she'll hopefully never have to see him again.
Until she arrives at her new job and finds out Dallas is her brand new boss. Not only that, she just broke his number one rule in regards to his adorable five-year-old daughter and he hates her for it.
Returning to Wildflower Ridge was supposed to be a short-term escape from the drama of her real life, but now she has to salvage a working relationship with Dallas, while battling the intense attraction between them and the memories of that one night.
As walls begin to crumble between them, Katie realises Dallas is offering her everything she's ever wanted, but to accept it, first she has to move on from her past and that may be the biggest hurdle of all.
In Full Bloom is a steamy, swoony single-dad romance set in small town New Zealand. It's a story about first impressions, finding your family and is New Zealand's answer to hot cowboys.
In Full Bloom is a dual POV story written in first person.
Katie Barton once swore she'd never return to the small town of Kauri Creek - the only place that's ever felt like home.
But when her life falls apart and her best friend needs her help running the Wildflower Ridge ranch, that's exactly where she finds in the local bar, in a town she hates.
A one night fling with cocky cowboy, Dallas is just the thing to cheer her up about her whole situation. A bit of fun, then she'll hopefully never have to see him again.
Until she arrives at her new job and finds out Dallas is her brand new boss. Not only that, she just broke his number one rule in regards to his adorable five-year-old daughter and he hates her for it.
Returning to Wildflower Ridge was supposed to be a short-term escape from the drama of her real life, but now she has to salvage a working relationship with Dallas, while battling the intense attraction between them and the memories of that one night.
As walls begin to crumble between them, Katie realises Dallas is offering her everything she's ever wanted, but to accept it, first she has to move on from her past and that may be the biggest hurdle of all.
In Full Bloom is a steamy, swoony single-dad romance set in small town New Zealand. It's a story about first impressions, finding your family and is New Zealand's answer to hot cowboys.
In Full Bloom is a dual POV story written in first person.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2024
28 people are currently reading
218 people want to read
About the author
Elle Ashwell
4 books23 followersElle Ashwell has always been a hopeless romantic.
Dedicated to the swoon and happily ever afters, it makes perfect sense to combine her love of all things romance with the charm of small town life in New Zealand.
Her romances are sweet and a little spicy, with green flag guys and ride-or-die friendships.
When not lost in fictional small towns, Elle works in administration, is a farmer's wife and mum of three girls in rural New Zealand.
Dedicated to the swoon and happily ever afters, it makes perfect sense to combine her love of all things romance with the charm of small town life in New Zealand.
Her romances are sweet and a little spicy, with green flag guys and ride-or-die friendships.
When not lost in fictional small towns, Elle works in administration, is a farmer's wife and mum of three girls in rural New Zealand.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 13, 2024
A steamy cowboy romance set in New Zealand? Don’t mind if I do!
🤠 cowboy romance
💗 set in New Zealand
🤠 small town
💗 single dad
🤠 fiesty FMC
💗 cinnamon roll MMC woth a touch of grump
🤠 workplace romance
💗 one night stand
🤠 forced proximity
💗 found family
I absolutely adored Katie, Dallas and Lady Sadie’s story. Sweet, funny, poignant, steamy - bringing all the feels.
I was sent this book by the author and all opinions are my own.
🤠 cowboy romance
💗 set in New Zealand
🤠 small town
💗 single dad
🤠 fiesty FMC
💗 cinnamon roll MMC woth a touch of grump
🤠 workplace romance
💗 one night stand
🤠 forced proximity
💗 found family
I absolutely adored Katie, Dallas and Lady Sadie’s story. Sweet, funny, poignant, steamy - bringing all the feels.
I was sent this book by the author and all opinions are my own.
October 24, 2024
4.5⭐️
Elsie Silver, Lyla Sage, please give a warm welcome to Elle Ashwell joining your cowboy club.
You had me at cowboy romance set and authored right here in little ole New Zealand. This book includes some of my favourite tropes and the characters! Dallas is an absolute cinnamon roll and is daughter, Lady Sadie, is just the sweetest.
This book was so sweet, realistic, wholesome and easy to read.
I can’t wait for more in the Wildflower Ridge series!
Elsie Silver, Lyla Sage, please give a warm welcome to Elle Ashwell joining your cowboy club.
You had me at cowboy romance set and authored right here in little ole New Zealand. This book includes some of my favourite tropes and the characters! Dallas is an absolute cinnamon roll and is daughter, Lady Sadie, is just the sweetest.
This book was so sweet, realistic, wholesome and easy to read.
I can’t wait for more in the Wildflower Ridge series!
May 16, 2025
Obsessed with this! 😍 In Full Bloom by Elle Ashwell gave me everything I want in a romance — a hot cowboy who (hilariously) hates horses, a sassy FMC, single dad energy, and those perfect “fuck it” moments that make your heart race.
The chemistry between the characters was chef’s kiss, the humor had me grinning like a fool, and the emotional depth gave the story real heart. It’s the kind of book you fly through and immediately want more of.
I absolutely loved this world and can’t wait to dive into the next one! Elle Ashwell is definitely going on my auto-buy list.
The chemistry between the characters was chef’s kiss, the humor had me grinning like a fool, and the emotional depth gave the story real heart. It’s the kind of book you fly through and immediately want more of.
I absolutely loved this world and can’t wait to dive into the next one! Elle Ashwell is definitely going on my auto-buy list.
March 2, 2025
I picked this up because there is a chance I’ll be meeting the author next month and wanted to support her beforehand, and I’m so glad I did! This was a great one night stand to lovers romance with lots of tension and just the right amount of spice.
I also adored that it was set in New Zealand!! As a fellow kiwi myself, I could relate to the NZ-English language perfectly. I honestly can’t wait to read the next book!
I also adored that it was set in New Zealand!! As a fellow kiwi myself, I could relate to the NZ-English language perfectly. I honestly can’t wait to read the next book!
April 15, 2025
In Full Bloom was amazing, it gave me Elsie Silver vibes which I loved. The story follows Katie and Dallas who end up working together after a one-night stand. The small-town romance vibes were really good during this book. There was previous trauma which led to tense moments within the book, which added to its depth. I loved the majority of the side characters. Sadie, Dallas's daughter, is adorable, and he's a single dad.
The found family aspect was really well done, and I genuinely loved all the characters. I hope both Olivia and Violet get their own books because I'd love to get to know their points of view better. They're both kind, caring, and really nice to work with. The way the characters defend both Katie and Dallas when they need it was so heart-warming. The banter was also really good, keeping things fun while still dealing with some heavy moments
The book is set in NZ, which made me love it even more. I adore books set in NZ, and I love that Elle Ashwell is a NZ author. Having some NZ slang sprinkled in felt like I was reading a book from home
Overall, if you love small-town romances, I highly recommend this one. The dual POV really added depth to the romance and gave us great perspectives on both sides. It was interesting to see them dealing with their own trauma from the past. I felt for Katie so much and just wanted to hug her. Tillie was a great character, especially towards the end, and I really hope she gets her own book. Knowing that Flynn and Abigail are the next book is so exciting for me!
The found family aspect was really well done, and I genuinely loved all the characters. I hope both Olivia and Violet get their own books because I'd love to get to know their points of view better. They're both kind, caring, and really nice to work with. The way the characters defend both Katie and Dallas when they need it was so heart-warming. The banter was also really good, keeping things fun while still dealing with some heavy moments
The book is set in NZ, which made me love it even more. I adore books set in NZ, and I love that Elle Ashwell is a NZ author. Having some NZ slang sprinkled in felt like I was reading a book from home
Overall, if you love small-town romances, I highly recommend this one. The dual POV really added depth to the romance and gave us great perspectives on both sides. It was interesting to see them dealing with their own trauma from the past. I felt for Katie so much and just wanted to hug her. Tillie was a great character, especially towards the end, and I really hope she gets her own book. Knowing that Flynn and Abigail are the next book is so exciting for me!
October 26, 2024
REVIEW ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I absolutely LOVED this book and I can’t wait to read more stories set at Wildflower Ridge!
Katie has returned home to small town Kauri Creek to work on her best friend Olivia’s farm, Wildflower Ridge. It’s always been home to her, but she swore she’d never return. On her first night back she picks up hunky cowboy Dallas in the bar and sets the terms of their encounter to be one night only. It’s an amazing night well spent, but she doesn’t expect to see him again. Then it turns out he’s the farm managed at WFR and her new boss - AWKS. Dallas is a single dad to his daughter Sadie, and he can’t deny his attraction to Katie, but he wants more than casual sex, and Katie isn’t willing to give him more. That is until she realises he might just be offering her what she’s always wanted, but she’ll have to face the past if they can have a future together.
I raced through this! This gave me massive Elsie Silver vibes, but was better as it was set in NZ! I genuinely loved everything about this. The characters were all fantastic, especially adorable ‘Lady Sadie’! The sexual tension between Katie and Dallas had me swooning, and when the spice came it was 🤌. I also loved Olivia and Katie’s friendship, and the trio they had with Flynn. Olivia’s mum Violet was also lovely and they all love Sadie so much which was just so lovely to see. Good communication is something I love to see in a romance and Katie and Dallas were pros. I can’t recommend this highly enough if you love your cowboy romances! It’s out 13/11 so mark your calendars! Huge thanks to @elle.ashwell.author for providing me an ARC - loved loved loved it! 💕
I absolutely LOVED this book and I can’t wait to read more stories set at Wildflower Ridge!
Katie has returned home to small town Kauri Creek to work on her best friend Olivia’s farm, Wildflower Ridge. It’s always been home to her, but she swore she’d never return. On her first night back she picks up hunky cowboy Dallas in the bar and sets the terms of their encounter to be one night only. It’s an amazing night well spent, but she doesn’t expect to see him again. Then it turns out he’s the farm managed at WFR and her new boss - AWKS. Dallas is a single dad to his daughter Sadie, and he can’t deny his attraction to Katie, but he wants more than casual sex, and Katie isn’t willing to give him more. That is until she realises he might just be offering her what she’s always wanted, but she’ll have to face the past if they can have a future together.
I raced through this! This gave me massive Elsie Silver vibes, but was better as it was set in NZ! I genuinely loved everything about this. The characters were all fantastic, especially adorable ‘Lady Sadie’! The sexual tension between Katie and Dallas had me swooning, and when the spice came it was 🤌. I also loved Olivia and Katie’s friendship, and the trio they had with Flynn. Olivia’s mum Violet was also lovely and they all love Sadie so much which was just so lovely to see. Good communication is something I love to see in a romance and Katie and Dallas were pros. I can’t recommend this highly enough if you love your cowboy romances! It’s out 13/11 so mark your calendars! Huge thanks to @elle.ashwell.author for providing me an ARC - loved loved loved it! 💕
November 13, 2024
This was a perfect pallette cleanser after getting heavy with my dark romances. I fell in love with Dallas instantly! He was an instant FUCK YES COWBOY in my mind! Being a single dad and having a filthy mouth that could make the hardest of woman swoon. Katie drew me in with the love of friends around her and her back story.
Elle set the vibes out really well with the incredible Wildflower Ridge and the found family with both MCs - we love a forced proximity moment and a delulu gal who can’t see what’s right infront of her till it’s literally staring right infront of her. The banter and experiences throughout this book kept me on my toes, laughing and gushing all throughout!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️
Elle set the vibes out really well with the incredible Wildflower Ridge and the found family with both MCs - we love a forced proximity moment and a delulu gal who can’t see what’s right infront of her till it’s literally staring right infront of her. The banter and experiences throughout this book kept me on my toes, laughing and gushing all throughout!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️
November 17, 2024
4 stars
TW: trauma from previous relationships for both main protagonists, death of loved ones (historical), injury, brief mention of previous miscarriage, previous horse riding accident resulting in child injury
Thank you to the author for a digital copy to review. All thoughts are my own.
In Full Bloom was a good introduction to the Wildflower Ridge series, and Elle Ashwell as an author. I enjoyed a new take on a cowboy romance, with Ashwell setting this on a New Zealand-based farm. As a fellow Kiwi, it was great to get representation in this romance sub-genre that was relatable to how "cowboys" are seen here.
I loved the setup of Kauri Creek and the Wildflower Ridge farm, I adored the side characters a great deal - especially Lady Sadie - and Dallas is a really decent male protagonist. The concept of family is very important here, whether that family is made up of blood or not, and I appreciated this focus a lot. Both Katie and Dallas have gone through a lot in the past few years, and the people around them currently truly care and support them. I liked that everyone looked out for each other, even if at times that was hard to accept.
Admittedly though, I didn't really like Katie as a main protagonist. I understand why the author wrote her as plucky and bold as she was, and whilst I came to respect her towards the end of the read, she was the hardest thing to enjoy about this story. I think this was a personal issue I held from decisions she made without consent or consideration of others in the beginning, and I believe a lot of readers will enjoy the freedom Katie provides as a female who isn't about to take sh*t from most males in this universe. But this did mean I struggled to connect with the romantic aspect until Katie's revelations about why she was so guarded or opinionated at times. I liked the evolution Katie's character goes through, however, and where this book leaves off was satisfying for all characters involved. The intimacy was written well and was tasteful. Both Dallas and Katie are pretty horny for each other, and whilst I'm not sure about how much farm work they really got done at times, I did appreciate how their thoughts about the other matched when they did step into more intimate scenes.
I will say, I was surprised by the quick interjection of a new character at the end of the book, only to realise that person will be part of the sequel, so I look forward to seeing how the abrupt involvement of them in this story will develop in book two. Overall, this is a solid start, and I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
TW: trauma from previous relationships for both main protagonists, death of loved ones (historical), injury, brief mention of previous miscarriage, previous horse riding accident resulting in child injury
Thank you to the author for a digital copy to review. All thoughts are my own.
In Full Bloom was a good introduction to the Wildflower Ridge series, and Elle Ashwell as an author. I enjoyed a new take on a cowboy romance, with Ashwell setting this on a New Zealand-based farm. As a fellow Kiwi, it was great to get representation in this romance sub-genre that was relatable to how "cowboys" are seen here.
I loved the setup of Kauri Creek and the Wildflower Ridge farm, I adored the side characters a great deal - especially Lady Sadie - and Dallas is a really decent male protagonist. The concept of family is very important here, whether that family is made up of blood or not, and I appreciated this focus a lot. Both Katie and Dallas have gone through a lot in the past few years, and the people around them currently truly care and support them. I liked that everyone looked out for each other, even if at times that was hard to accept.
Admittedly though, I didn't really like Katie as a main protagonist. I understand why the author wrote her as plucky and bold as she was, and whilst I came to respect her towards the end of the read, she was the hardest thing to enjoy about this story. I think this was a personal issue I held from decisions she made without consent or consideration of others in the beginning, and I believe a lot of readers will enjoy the freedom Katie provides as a female who isn't about to take sh*t from most males in this universe. But this did mean I struggled to connect with the romantic aspect until Katie's revelations about why she was so guarded or opinionated at times. I liked the evolution Katie's character goes through, however, and where this book leaves off was satisfying for all characters involved. The intimacy was written well and was tasteful. Both Dallas and Katie are pretty horny for each other, and whilst I'm not sure about how much farm work they really got done at times, I did appreciate how their thoughts about the other matched when they did step into more intimate scenes.
I will say, I was surprised by the quick interjection of a new character at the end of the book, only to realise that person will be part of the sequel, so I look forward to seeing how the abrupt involvement of them in this story will develop in book two. Overall, this is a solid start, and I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
November 5, 2024
This was a very enjoyable read. Surprisingly, this was my first cowboy romance read and I am happy to say that this trope has me hooked. I fell in love with the characters from “Wildflower Ridge” and am so eager to see their stories continue in the books that are to come with this series. Dallas is the perfect male main character, very swoon-worthy and super easy to fall in love with. I enjoyed the relationship between him and his daughter and found it so wholesome. Katie, the female main character, is awesome. I really enjoyed her backstory and the history that she has with Wildflower Ridge. There were other great characters in this story and they all had great interconnecting friendships that were sweet to read about. This cowboy romance read was set on a farm in New Zealand, and the book is filled with Kiwi slang. It was super cool to read a book that is based in the country I am from and it left me feeling very connected to the story and characters. Watching Dallas and Katie's romance develop throughout the book was enjoyable and I felt as if their story had the perfect amount of spice. I read this book in two sittings, it was super easy to read, really enjoyable and hard to put down once I began. I am looking forward to the rest of the books in this series and would encourage everyone to pick up a copy of this read once it is published on November 13th. Thank you to the author Elle Ashwell, who kindly sent me an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for a review.
October 19, 2024
Kindle read (ARC)
In Full Bloom by Elle Ashwell (ARC) 🌸
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly I’d like to give a big thank you to @elle.ashwell.author for the ARC copy of your beautiful book!! 🩷
Now onto the review!
Mild spoilers alert so proceed with caution!
God did I love this book! 😍
In Full Bloom is the first book in Elle’s first ever series “Wildflower Ridge”, a cowboy romance series set at h home here in New Zealand!
It follows Katie; who has returned to work at WFR farm with her best friends after leaving years early under tough circumstances, and Dallas; the cowboy single dad who she has a one-night-stand the night she arrives, the proceeds to end up working with…
So I’m sure you can guess where that goes 👀
Did I mention he’s a cowboy? 🤠
But they aren’t without their own struggles along the way, but I’ll leave that for ya’ll to read about and experience yourselves!
I absolutely ADORE this book and can’t recommend it enough!
In Full Bloom releases on Nov 13th so add it to your calendars! You won’t want to miss this one!
I’m already excited for the next book 🩷
Incase you need a little more convincing, here’s a little list of tropes! 🤠🐴🩷
Kiwi cowboy romance
One-night-stand turned co-workers
Single dad
Slow burn
Found family
Nicknames
She teaches his daughter (and him) to ride horses
Only one horse
And more!
In Full Bloom by Elle Ashwell (ARC) 🌸
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly I’d like to give a big thank you to @elle.ashwell.author for the ARC copy of your beautiful book!! 🩷
Now onto the review!
Mild spoilers alert so proceed with caution!
God did I love this book! 😍
In Full Bloom is the first book in Elle’s first ever series “Wildflower Ridge”, a cowboy romance series set at h home here in New Zealand!
It follows Katie; who has returned to work at WFR farm with her best friends after leaving years early under tough circumstances, and Dallas; the cowboy single dad who she has a one-night-stand the night she arrives, the proceeds to end up working with…
So I’m sure you can guess where that goes 👀
Did I mention he’s a cowboy? 🤠
But they aren’t without their own struggles along the way, but I’ll leave that for ya’ll to read about and experience yourselves!
I absolutely ADORE this book and can’t recommend it enough!
In Full Bloom releases on Nov 13th so add it to your calendars! You won’t want to miss this one!
I’m already excited for the next book 🩷
Incase you need a little more convincing, here’s a little list of tropes! 🤠🐴🩷
Kiwi cowboy romance
One-night-stand turned co-workers
Single dad
Slow burn
Found family
Nicknames
She teaches his daughter (and him) to ride horses
Only one horse
And more!
July 9, 2025
oh my gosh i’m in looooove
i think the main reason i loved this book so much is because i saw so much of myself in katie as a character. i relate to her because im also a farmer who lives in a small town where everyone knows everyone, so i understand how it felt when she didn’t want to go into town and face everyone because everyone already knew her business with toby etc.
this book was brought to life by not just katie, but also by dallas. he has such a loveable personality and under that rough exterior has such a massive heart, kind of like our boy flynn (coming up roses) so it was awesome to see how the book developed their relationship.
this one is special to me because i feel like it brings me as a person onto a page if that makes sense? in the sense that i also am with a farmer and our whole life is muddy work boots and dinners in the kitchen as a family. i almost felt like dallas was my partner, and i was katie. i felt myself be represented in a book for the first time ever.
i loved katie’s turmoil about staying or leaving wildflower ridge, and how dallas brought her down from that. his calm nature developed through the book and made it so awesome to read. i also loved how dallas overcame his fear of horses.
overall i love this book so so so much, its made me feel seen and heard.
ps- i want more cute sadie moments 🩷
i think the main reason i loved this book so much is because i saw so much of myself in katie as a character. i relate to her because im also a farmer who lives in a small town where everyone knows everyone, so i understand how it felt when she didn’t want to go into town and face everyone because everyone already knew her business with toby etc.
this book was brought to life by not just katie, but also by dallas. he has such a loveable personality and under that rough exterior has such a massive heart, kind of like our boy flynn (coming up roses) so it was awesome to see how the book developed their relationship.
this one is special to me because i feel like it brings me as a person onto a page if that makes sense? in the sense that i also am with a farmer and our whole life is muddy work boots and dinners in the kitchen as a family. i almost felt like dallas was my partner, and i was katie. i felt myself be represented in a book for the first time ever.
i loved katie’s turmoil about staying or leaving wildflower ridge, and how dallas brought her down from that. his calm nature developed through the book and made it so awesome to read. i also loved how dallas overcame his fear of horses.
overall i love this book so so so much, its made me feel seen and heard.
ps- i want more cute sadie moments 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2024
Spoiler free ARC review of In Full Bloom by Aotearoa author @elle.ashwell.author !
🌸”What do you need? … You” 🥺 🌸
In Full Bloom is the first full length book in the Wildflower Ridge series, a small town, cowboy romance series set right here in New Zealand.
I am a sucker for a small town romance and when a book is set in such a familiar environment I always leap at the opportunity to read it!
This book felt like it was giving me a hug the whole time. From the small town vibes, to the characters and the found family element, I felt like I was right in this world with these characters. And of course there was 🌶️🌶️ which in my opinion was done very well and was at the right times in the story line!
I don’t want to spoil anything else but if you loved Elsie Silvers books then you will absolutely love this one too!
In Full Bloom releases on the 13th November so I would mark it in your calendars and download a copy as soon as it’s out.
Thank you again @elle.ashwell.author for sending me an ARC of your first adult romance, I loved every second 🥰 I can’t wait to see where the story goes in book 2 and spend more time with my new friends at Wildflower Ridge!
🌸”What do you need? … You” 🥺 🌸
In Full Bloom is the first full length book in the Wildflower Ridge series, a small town, cowboy romance series set right here in New Zealand.
I am a sucker for a small town romance and when a book is set in such a familiar environment I always leap at the opportunity to read it!
This book felt like it was giving me a hug the whole time. From the small town vibes, to the characters and the found family element, I felt like I was right in this world with these characters. And of course there was 🌶️🌶️ which in my opinion was done very well and was at the right times in the story line!
I don’t want to spoil anything else but if you loved Elsie Silvers books then you will absolutely love this one too!
In Full Bloom releases on the 13th November so I would mark it in your calendars and download a copy as soon as it’s out.
Thank you again @elle.ashwell.author for sending me an ARC of your first adult romance, I loved every second 🥰 I can’t wait to see where the story goes in book 2 and spend more time with my new friends at Wildflower Ridge!
November 13, 2024
"You told me once that you wanted a place you could put down roots and grow. This is that place, surrounded by people who love you. You can live here, at Wildflower Ridge, in full bloom."
I was lucky to receive an ARC of Elle Ashwell's debut adult romance book, In Full Bloom (book one in the Wildflower Ridge Series). It follows the story of Katie and Dallas.
Katie and Dallas both have tough pasts, and I cannot imagine what that must have been like for them to experience and go through, but I am in awe of how strong they both are.
I adored Katie and Dallas's story and thought they were perfect together.
The banter between them was perfect, and their nicknames for each other melted my heart!
The found family aspect in the book was everything. I loved how supportive they all were of Katie and Dallas.
I feel like the author missed the opportunity to allow Katie to fully overcome the trauma of her relationship with her toxic ex and heal from everything she experienced while with him. It would have been nice to have seen her have that moment with her ex's mother and sister to finally close the door on her past once and for all.
Besides that, I enjoyed reading In Full Bloom and thought it was a good debut novel.
I cannot wait to read Abi and Flynn's story next in Coming Up Roses!
Thank you so much to Elle Ashwell for this ARC 🤍
I was lucky to receive an ARC of Elle Ashwell's debut adult romance book, In Full Bloom (book one in the Wildflower Ridge Series). It follows the story of Katie and Dallas.
Katie and Dallas both have tough pasts, and I cannot imagine what that must have been like for them to experience and go through, but I am in awe of how strong they both are.
I adored Katie and Dallas's story and thought they were perfect together.
The banter between them was perfect, and their nicknames for each other melted my heart!
The found family aspect in the book was everything. I loved how supportive they all were of Katie and Dallas.
I feel like the author missed the opportunity to allow Katie to fully overcome the trauma of her relationship with her toxic ex and heal from everything she experienced while with him. It would have been nice to have seen her have that moment with her ex's mother and sister to finally close the door on her past once and for all.
Besides that, I enjoyed reading In Full Bloom and thought it was a good debut novel.
I cannot wait to read Abi and Flynn's story next in Coming Up Roses!
Thank you so much to Elle Ashwell for this ARC 🤍
November 17, 2024
Finding a new author to love who also comes from New Zealand, I couldn’t be happier. Labelled a cowboy romance, I’d consider it more a cowgirl romance because Katie is the quintessential farm girl who rides a horse like she was born doing it. Dallas, not so much. Which honestly was quite refreshing to see a man have to overcome his fears.
I really liked the personality differences between the MC’s. Katie was sassy and confident with a little bit of attitude and Dallas was a devoted single dad whose life revolved around his daughter Sadie. She was the cutest little thing, in fact she’s how I imagine Katie would have been as a child.
This book was more than just the romance. There was external conflict from Katie’s past to work through as well as a toxic relationship she’d previously had. Dallas remained committed to helping Katie come to terms with her past and try to move on from it.
I finished this in 12 hours and it’s a book I feel I could reread again easily. I know Wildflower Ridge is going to become one of my favourite fictional NZ towns.
Thank you to Elle Ashwell for the arc and this is my honest review.
I really liked the personality differences between the MC’s. Katie was sassy and confident with a little bit of attitude and Dallas was a devoted single dad whose life revolved around his daughter Sadie. She was the cutest little thing, in fact she’s how I imagine Katie would have been as a child.
This book was more than just the romance. There was external conflict from Katie’s past to work through as well as a toxic relationship she’d previously had. Dallas remained committed to helping Katie come to terms with her past and try to move on from it.
I finished this in 12 hours and it’s a book I feel I could reread again easily. I know Wildflower Ridge is going to become one of my favourite fictional NZ towns.
Thank you to Elle Ashwell for the arc and this is my honest review.
November 14, 2024
Bar 🥃 🎱
Back to sell gmas house
Had to wait till 25
Met guys in bar- 1 night stand
Country - small town
Doesn’t know her name
✨ 🧥
Leave bar
Farmhouse
Forced proximity
🐴 Workplace romance 💘
Single dad 👧🏻
Sheep 🐑 and little lambs
🐄 🤠
2nd 🏠
Feeding baby lambs
Sexual tension in front of daughter & boss
Wildflower 💐 Ridge
Doesn’t want his Sadie riding 🐎
Mechanic 🧑🔧 said she wills crew Dallas over 😬
🏍️ ☠️ 👯♂️ car accident
New wild horse 🐴 Aurora
Dead 💀 bf
Broken 🐎
Dressed up to go out ✨
Dance
Give him a chance
Almost 😘
“That night … fuck, princess. That was one of the best nights of my entire life.”
🤗 🎥
Carried her to bed 🛌
🏫 🍨 loves his daughter 😘
He wants her to stay
She established she’s Leaving after winter & just wants to be friends
Kate is bucked off Aurora 🐎
His arm 🩸
Has to ride horse to get to hospital
Found family
Miscarriage
Grief
Cocky horny Dallas
Dirty talk
Hookup
“Your mine cowboy 🤠 “
Hidden / secret 🤫 relationship
Date
Cheated & drunk drove
Cottage 🛁 🃏
Family rodeo
Back to sell gmas house
Had to wait till 25
Met guys in bar- 1 night stand
Country - small town
Doesn’t know her name
✨ 🧥
Leave bar
Farmhouse
Forced proximity
🐴 Workplace romance 💘
Single dad 👧🏻
Sheep 🐑 and little lambs
🐄 🤠
2nd 🏠
Feeding baby lambs
Sexual tension in front of daughter & boss
Wildflower 💐 Ridge
Doesn’t want his Sadie riding 🐎
Mechanic 🧑🔧 said she wills crew Dallas over 😬
🏍️ ☠️ 👯♂️ car accident
New wild horse 🐴 Aurora
Dead 💀 bf
Broken 🐎
Dressed up to go out ✨
Dance
Give him a chance
Almost 😘
“That night … fuck, princess. That was one of the best nights of my entire life.”
🤗 🎥
Carried her to bed 🛌
🏫 🍨 loves his daughter 😘
He wants her to stay
She established she’s Leaving after winter & just wants to be friends
Kate is bucked off Aurora 🐎
His arm 🩸
Has to ride horse to get to hospital
Found family
Miscarriage
Grief
Cocky horny Dallas
Dirty talk
Hookup
“Your mine cowboy 🤠 “
Hidden / secret 🤫 relationship
Date
Cheated & drunk drove
Cottage 🛁 🃏
Family rodeo
November 7, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 4 Stars
🌶 - Spice Level
Dean (Dallas) meets Katie at the local bar in her hometown in New Zealand. She stopped there before driving up to her best friend's Wildflower Ridge. They settle for a 1 night stands and no exchanging of names or purpose. By the next day, they meet again at the ranch. Dallas is a single father who took a job there only 6 months before, and Katie came home because she was out of money and lost her job. She's been running from her hometown for years due to past trauma with an ex fiance that moved away with her.
These two can barely stay away from each other as Katie starts integrating back in with ranch life and what she had known before leaving. They have a slow burn between them as they navigate a relationship and his daughters care. The smeggsy time is tame and not super spicy. This is definitely a more love story than smeggsy, which I enjoyed.
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: November 13, 2024
🌶 - Spice Level
Dean (Dallas) meets Katie at the local bar in her hometown in New Zealand. She stopped there before driving up to her best friend's Wildflower Ridge. They settle for a 1 night stands and no exchanging of names or purpose. By the next day, they meet again at the ranch. Dallas is a single father who took a job there only 6 months before, and Katie came home because she was out of money and lost her job. She's been running from her hometown for years due to past trauma with an ex fiance that moved away with her.
These two can barely stay away from each other as Katie starts integrating back in with ranch life and what she had known before leaving. They have a slow burn between them as they navigate a relationship and his daughters care. The smeggsy time is tame and not super spicy. This is definitely a more love story than smeggsy, which I enjoyed.
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: November 13, 2024
October 28, 2024
ARC REVIEW (may contain spoilers)
From the dedication this had me hooked (even though I don't have a cowboy or a kiwi farmer yet lol 😆) !!!
Elle brings to life the story of Katie and Dallas as they navigate their way to each other through past trauma, work place roles, family and friends, small town mindsets and fear. I think the combination of all of these things makes their story relatable as the road to Happily Ever After never did run smooth.
I 100% became immersed in this world and invested in these characters. Also Lady Sadie is the best (IYKYK)!
Bonus Elle is a kiwi author and the story is set in rural New Zealand with interconnected stories to come I thoroughly look forward to what comes next.....and hey I might find my own cowboy or kiwi farmer along the way 😉
From the dedication this had me hooked (even though I don't have a cowboy or a kiwi farmer yet lol 😆) !!!
Elle brings to life the story of Katie and Dallas as they navigate their way to each other through past trauma, work place roles, family and friends, small town mindsets and fear. I think the combination of all of these things makes their story relatable as the road to Happily Ever After never did run smooth.
I 100% became immersed in this world and invested in these characters. Also Lady Sadie is the best (IYKYK)!
Bonus Elle is a kiwi author and the story is set in rural New Zealand with interconnected stories to come I thoroughly look forward to what comes next.....and hey I might find my own cowboy or kiwi farmer along the way 😉
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2024
4.5 stars
I absolutely adored this book and finished it in one-sitting. In Full Bloom is a heartwarming romance set in a cosy small town, with characters you’ll root for and a found family that’ll steal your heart. Elle Ashwell brings such charm to the New Zealand backdrop and perfectly balances tender moments, tension-filled banter, and a touch of spice. Dallas and Katie’s story is beautifully paced, and watching their connection grow was a delight. If you love small-town romances with green-flag heroes and a bit of cheeky humour, this one’s a must-read!
🌸 Indie author
🌸 New Zealand setting
🌸 Single dad
🌸 Forced proximity
🌸 Small town romance
🌸 Found family
🌸 Workplace
🌸 One night stand
🌸 Spice
I absolutely adored this book and finished it in one-sitting. In Full Bloom is a heartwarming romance set in a cosy small town, with characters you’ll root for and a found family that’ll steal your heart. Elle Ashwell brings such charm to the New Zealand backdrop and perfectly balances tender moments, tension-filled banter, and a touch of spice. Dallas and Katie’s story is beautifully paced, and watching their connection grow was a delight. If you love small-town romances with green-flag heroes and a bit of cheeky humour, this one’s a must-read!
🌸 Indie author
🌸 New Zealand setting
🌸 Single dad
🌸 Forced proximity
🌸 Small town romance
🌸 Found family
🌸 Workplace
🌸 One night stand
🌸 Spice
December 12, 2024
I read No Shrinking Violet novella before reading In Full Bloom and I would highly recommend doing so its a perfect way to start the Wildflower Ridge series. But its not a must.
In Full Bloom is a wonderful story and is a stand alone book. Dallas is a single Dad providing for his daughter, Sadie by working and living at The Wildflower Ridge Ranch. Katie has returned to her childhood bestfriends farm, at The Wildflower Ridge Ranch. The chemistry between these two is almost too much. The story, the characters, the spice. Who doesnt want to read a cowboy romance set in rural New Zealand?
Im looking forward to the next book.
Huge thank you to Elle Ashwell for providing me with an Advanced Readers Copy.
In Full Bloom is a wonderful story and is a stand alone book. Dallas is a single Dad providing for his daughter, Sadie by working and living at The Wildflower Ridge Ranch. Katie has returned to her childhood bestfriends farm, at The Wildflower Ridge Ranch. The chemistry between these two is almost too much. The story, the characters, the spice. Who doesnt want to read a cowboy romance set in rural New Zealand?
Im looking forward to the next book.
Huge thank you to Elle Ashwell for providing me with an Advanced Readers Copy.
February 25, 2025
✨Review✨
In Full Bloom by Elle Ashwell
Quick Look-
Format: e book
Genre: small town romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (a couple scenes)
Recommend: yes
Full review-
I absolutely adored both Katie and Dallas from the first page!! They got together soon, but it still somehow felt like a slow burn. The tension, the bickering, and the small town aspect were all perfect. I’m really glad I read this before Abi’s book so that I knew all the history etc. I do feel the last 25% was a bit rushed. As a kid who had a step parent, Katie moving in seemed too soon for me. Lady Sadie and Dallas are this awesome team and I felt like it needed more time to adjust. I do wish we got a little more from the blow up with max but maybe that’s in the next book!!
In Full Bloom by Elle Ashwell
Quick Look-
Format: e book
Genre: small town romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (a couple scenes)
Recommend: yes
Full review-
I absolutely adored both Katie and Dallas from the first page!! They got together soon, but it still somehow felt like a slow burn. The tension, the bickering, and the small town aspect were all perfect. I’m really glad I read this before Abi’s book so that I knew all the history etc. I do feel the last 25% was a bit rushed. As a kid who had a step parent, Katie moving in seemed too soon for me. Lady Sadie and Dallas are this awesome team and I felt like it needed more time to adjust. I do wish we got a little more from the blow up with max but maybe that’s in the next book!!
June 18, 2025
A super sweet small town romance...in little old NZ!!
I'm very much in my small town romance era and was so stoked to stumble across In Full Bloom on TikTok...naturally I had to start reading straight away.
Katie and Dallas were awesome, some great character growth for both of them. The rest of the fam at Wildflower Ridge also hook you in and you really feel that found family love!!
I've gotta say though, my fave character was Lady Sadie 😊
This was really well written, includes a little Kiwi slang but nothing too out there and the guide at the start will help if you're not from NZ.
Can't wait to start on the next installment in the series!
I'm very much in my small town romance era and was so stoked to stumble across In Full Bloom on TikTok...naturally I had to start reading straight away.
Katie and Dallas were awesome, some great character growth for both of them. The rest of the fam at Wildflower Ridge also hook you in and you really feel that found family love!!
I've gotta say though, my fave character was Lady Sadie 😊
This was really well written, includes a little Kiwi slang but nothing too out there and the guide at the start will help if you're not from NZ.
Can't wait to start on the next installment in the series!
November 11, 2024
I hands down loved this book. After the heart break of the novella ‘No Shrinking Violet’ this was like a hug in a book. It has totally got me hooked on small town romances and absolutely cannot wait until the second book comes out.
The book was so realistic I felt like I was reading about real people. The tension between Katie and Dallas was electric. The supporting characters were fun and you couldn’t help but absolutely adore ‘Lady Sadie’.
Do yourself a favour and go order a copy, I’ll be eagerly anticipating book two so I can get more of my Wildflower Ridge fix.
The book was so realistic I felt like I was reading about real people. The tension between Katie and Dallas was electric. The supporting characters were fun and you couldn’t help but absolutely adore ‘Lady Sadie’.
Do yourself a favour and go order a copy, I’ll be eagerly anticipating book two so I can get more of my Wildflower Ridge fix.
November 3, 2024
This was my first cowboy romance book and I was HOOKED! And Dallas is a single dad?! I loved it! I loved watching them go from strangers in a pub to lovers. Dallas gives off a ton of green flags. The bath scene, learning to braid hair so he can do his daughter’s hair, the picture Lady Sadie drew, it was all so sweet! I got a little worried when Abi came into the picture again, but I love how it ended! Who doesn’t love a happily ever after?! I adored this book!
August 7, 2025
In Full Bloom
She is back home after losing everything. Not quite ready to face the memories that plague her every day. He is a one night stand, she would never see again ...until she does and he is technically her boss. Can they keep their relationship professional or will passion take over? Will someone from her past drive the away again or can he be the one who she stays for? What an absolutely beautiful love story. Can not wait for Abby and Flynn's story next.
She is back home after losing everything. Not quite ready to face the memories that plague her every day. He is a one night stand, she would never see again ...until she does and he is technically her boss. Can they keep their relationship professional or will passion take over? Will someone from her past drive the away again or can he be the one who she stays for? What an absolutely beautiful love story. Can not wait for Abby and Flynn's story next.
March 2, 2025
A sweet, easy to read contemporary romance set on a farm by a NZ author.
There were parts that made me giggle, kicking my feet grinning and some delightful open door spice.
Also tears and overcoming trauma, found Family, a bit of one horse action and our MMC is a hot single dad!
I especially loved little Sadie!
Can't wait to read more from Wildflower Ridge!
There were parts that made me giggle, kicking my feet grinning and some delightful open door spice.
Also tears and overcoming trauma, found Family, a bit of one horse action and our MMC is a hot single dad!
I especially loved little Sadie!
Can't wait to read more from Wildflower Ridge!
October 31, 2024
I absolutely adored this cowboy romance. The small town vibes, the banter, the single dad trope and the found family - it's all sooooo incredible. Elle writes so well, I read this book in 2 days because I just couldn't put it down! I love Katie, Dallas and Lady Sadie 😍😍😍
December 27, 2024
Sweet Rural Romance set in New Zealand on the stunning Wildflower Ridge Farm. Love the NZ rep and this sweet ensemble of characters. Ladie Sadie is definitely my favorite character and I love the relationship with her dad Dallas. Sweet with just the right amount of spice a great fast paced romance.
July 23, 2025
This has been such a fun read!
I normally don't read contemporary romance, but picked it up by a friend's recommendation.
I loved getting to know Katie and Dallas and Sadie has been adorable throughout .
I normally don't read contemporary romance, but picked it up by a friend's recommendation.
I loved getting to know Katie and Dallas and Sadie has been adorable throughout .
August 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! I found it a really good light story, with likeable characters and a beautiful setting. I have a newly discovered love of farming/ranch romance stories it would seem. Gave me McLeods daughters vibes (the TV show) in terms of the setting and story feel. Will definitely read the next one.
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