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Smelling Daisies
Whenever things seem to fall apart around Daisy, romance novels are her way of escaping. When immersed in a novel, she can imagine herself in the story as the lead female character. Still, the difference between her and the typical female character in her novels is that she is not your average damsel in distress.
Daisy was raised by a military father who ensured his daughter knew survival skills and how to protect herself. Following in her beloved father's footsteps, Daisy joined the army and met Justin. Eventually, Daisy's dreams would come true. While on a decompression stop after a deployment overseas, she finds herself at the Lachlan Castle in Scotland. There, she is thrown back in time to the era she loves to read about, but things are nothing like she imagined.
When Daisy befriends a bonnie Scottish lass, she finds herself in a haven under the roof of the girl's brother, a laird named Alick. It becomes clear that the laird is constantly challenged by the many nuances of Daisy's status as a modern-day female soldier as she attempts to navigate the dangerous life in medieval Scotland. While trying her best to fit in, Daisy stumbles upon a psychotic baron named Thomas, who loves to torture women and is fascinated with her.
Both Laird Alick and Baron Thomas want to tame the lioness in Daisy but for different reasons. But Daisy is ill-prepared for medieval love or warfare and must train her heart and head to face what's coming next.
Daisy was raised by a military father who ensured his daughter knew survival skills and how to protect herself. Following in her beloved father's footsteps, Daisy joined the army and met Justin. Eventually, Daisy's dreams would come true. While on a decompression stop after a deployment overseas, she finds herself at the Lachlan Castle in Scotland. There, she is thrown back in time to the era she loves to read about, but things are nothing like she imagined.
When Daisy befriends a bonnie Scottish lass, she finds herself in a haven under the roof of the girl's brother, a laird named Alick. It becomes clear that the laird is constantly challenged by the many nuances of Daisy's status as a modern-day female soldier as she attempts to navigate the dangerous life in medieval Scotland. While trying her best to fit in, Daisy stumbles upon a psychotic baron named Thomas, who loves to torture women and is fascinated with her.
Both Laird Alick and Baron Thomas want to tame the lioness in Daisy but for different reasons. But Daisy is ill-prepared for medieval love or warfare and must train her heart and head to face what's coming next.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2024
3 people are currently reading
2128 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 4, 2024
I really enjoyed Smelling Daisies, this was a historical romance ARC I was kindly gifted to read.
The story itself was quite different following a woman from the military who is both strong minded and physically fit, she finds herself thrown back in time to Scotland in the midst of a literal war.
Where women aren’t allowed to be warriors, she proves everyone wrong whilst finding herself love struck with the handsome Laird Alick..
This book gave me Outlander vibes and I couldn’t help but hear Alick in a gorgeous Scottish accent the whole way through.. not that I minded!!
I gave this book 3.75 - 4 stars I did really enjoy the story and slow burn romance in this book. Some of the writing itself felt a little bit slow and also a little back and forth just because there were a lot of different 3rd person character views within the book! But overall was a fun and enjoyable read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoy’s a historical romance style read.
The story itself was quite different following a woman from the military who is both strong minded and physically fit, she finds herself thrown back in time to Scotland in the midst of a literal war.
Where women aren’t allowed to be warriors, she proves everyone wrong whilst finding herself love struck with the handsome Laird Alick..
This book gave me Outlander vibes and I couldn’t help but hear Alick in a gorgeous Scottish accent the whole way through.. not that I minded!!
I gave this book 3.75 - 4 stars I did really enjoy the story and slow burn romance in this book. Some of the writing itself felt a little bit slow and also a little back and forth just because there were a lot of different 3rd person character views within the book! But overall was a fun and enjoyable read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoy’s a historical romance style read.
September 13, 2024
The captivating story of a young woman who achieves the impossibly difficult leap into her fantasies and what she loves reading about in her favorite literary genre is told in “Smelling Daisies” by Elysia Stevens with her co-author husband, Mark Stevens.
Eighteen-year-old Daisy Dufresne is grieving over the loss of all the people she has held dear. Prior to her military father being declared missing in action, her mother passed away in an accident when she was nine. Recently, her lover, Justin, with whom she enlisted in the army, also died while in action in Afghanistan. She can feel the last part of her heart shattering as she imagines never falling in love again because any chance at love seems to be accompanied by loss.
Daisy’s platoon comes under severe gunfire and explosive attacks while on a military deployment in Afghanistan. She narrowly survives, waking up after an induced coma that lasted three weeks. She later goes on a vacation to Lachlan Castle in Scotland for military decompression, where she comes upon a book detailing the history of the Lachlan family, including their long and heinous history of battle, love, retribution, and betrayal.
She also finds out about a famous Scottish warrior queen who shares her birthmark and physical attributes. She eventually discovers that she has been sent back in time, that her arrival was prophesied, and that she would need to offer support and direction in the face of an approaching danger.
This story transports the reader to William I’s reign in medieval Scotland in the 13th century. Here, the reader encounters medieval characters that one would only find in a historical book. From an early age, the protagonist’s ingenuity increases dramatically as her life unfolds and as she runs from the reality of being a prisoner of war. Her depiction as being torn between two worlds and two loves sparks the reader’s curiosity and makes them wonder what will happen next, particularly with the entrance of an antagonist who takes great interest in her.
Right off the bat, I knew I’d like Daisy. She’s a spicy spitfire, and I loved watching her put the Taliban in their place. Her personality was extremely endearing to me. I could really see myself walking through Medieval Scotland thanks to the vivid descriptions. The steamy scenes are sultry and romantic without being too much. I am excited to see where “Smelling Daisies” by Elysia and Mark Stevens continues since the authors have built it up to be such an entertaining and thrilling tale that deserves to be turned into a series!
Eighteen-year-old Daisy Dufresne is grieving over the loss of all the people she has held dear. Prior to her military father being declared missing in action, her mother passed away in an accident when she was nine. Recently, her lover, Justin, with whom she enlisted in the army, also died while in action in Afghanistan. She can feel the last part of her heart shattering as she imagines never falling in love again because any chance at love seems to be accompanied by loss.
Daisy’s platoon comes under severe gunfire and explosive attacks while on a military deployment in Afghanistan. She narrowly survives, waking up after an induced coma that lasted three weeks. She later goes on a vacation to Lachlan Castle in Scotland for military decompression, where she comes upon a book detailing the history of the Lachlan family, including their long and heinous history of battle, love, retribution, and betrayal.
She also finds out about a famous Scottish warrior queen who shares her birthmark and physical attributes. She eventually discovers that she has been sent back in time, that her arrival was prophesied, and that she would need to offer support and direction in the face of an approaching danger.
This story transports the reader to William I’s reign in medieval Scotland in the 13th century. Here, the reader encounters medieval characters that one would only find in a historical book. From an early age, the protagonist’s ingenuity increases dramatically as her life unfolds and as she runs from the reality of being a prisoner of war. Her depiction as being torn between two worlds and two loves sparks the reader’s curiosity and makes them wonder what will happen next, particularly with the entrance of an antagonist who takes great interest in her.
Right off the bat, I knew I’d like Daisy. She’s a spicy spitfire, and I loved watching her put the Taliban in their place. Her personality was extremely endearing to me. I could really see myself walking through Medieval Scotland thanks to the vivid descriptions. The steamy scenes are sultry and romantic without being too much. I am excited to see where “Smelling Daisies” by Elysia and Mark Stevens continues since the authors have built it up to be such an entertaining and thrilling tale that deserves to be turned into a series!
December 24, 2025
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Post Description: Smelling Daisies by Elysia Stevens is a tender, emotionally rich romance that beautifully blends humor, healing, and heartfelt connection. Set against a vividly imagined historical backdrop, the novel follows two souls burdened by past wounds who find unexpected comfort—and love—in one another’s presence. Stevens writes with warmth and sensitivity, allowing the romance to unfold naturally while giving space to personal growth and emotional vulnerability.
The characters are deeply engaging, especially the female lead, whose resilience and quiet strength make her journey profoundly satisfying to follow. The chemistry between the protagonists is gentle yet compelling, built on trust, shared moments, and an undercurrent of longing that feels authentic rather than rushed. The seaside setting and subtle symbolism of daisies add a soft, almost nostalgic charm to the story, reinforcing themes of renewal and hope.
What makes Smelling Daisies stand out is its balance of lighthearted banter and emotional depth. It’s a story about finding joy after loss and choosing love even when fear lingers 🌼💛. Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven historical romance with heart, warmth, and a comforting sense of escape. A lovely, rewarding read well worth adding to your shelf 📖✨.
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👉 Follow: @elysiamarkstevensbooks
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✨ #bookstagram #booklover #bookcommunity bookreview readersofinstagram readingtime inspiringreads bookishlove readmorebooks goodreads bookrecommendation
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Post Description: Smelling Daisies by Elysia Stevens is a tender, emotionally rich romance that beautifully blends humor, healing, and heartfelt connection. Set against a vividly imagined historical backdrop, the novel follows two souls burdened by past wounds who find unexpected comfort—and love—in one another’s presence. Stevens writes with warmth and sensitivity, allowing the romance to unfold naturally while giving space to personal growth and emotional vulnerability.
The characters are deeply engaging, especially the female lead, whose resilience and quiet strength make her journey profoundly satisfying to follow. The chemistry between the protagonists is gentle yet compelling, built on trust, shared moments, and an undercurrent of longing that feels authentic rather than rushed. The seaside setting and subtle symbolism of daisies add a soft, almost nostalgic charm to the story, reinforcing themes of renewal and hope.
What makes Smelling Daisies stand out is its balance of lighthearted banter and emotional depth. It’s a story about finding joy after loss and choosing love even when fear lingers 🌼💛. Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven historical romance with heart, warmth, and a comforting sense of escape. A lovely, rewarding read well worth adding to your shelf 📖✨.
.
👉 Follow: @elysiamarkstevensbooks
🫶 {DM to Get Featured} 🫶
.
✨ #bookstagram #booklover #bookcommunity bookreview readersofinstagram readingtime inspiringreads bookishlove readmorebooks goodreads bookrecommendation
March 10, 2025
I have no clue how I found this book, but I did and thought the premise was very interesting. I was expecting something like a Karen Marie Moning Highlander book but with a kickass solider heroine. The main thing that threw me off was this was not a fantasy romance book to me at all. Fantasy book for sure but it didn't really follow the formula.
First, the setup before what I would consider the plot took about 20% of the book. That is very odd. I don't want to say characters pop into life right before the romance part of these kinds of books, but we also don't hear the lead's whole life story either which is pretty much what happened here.
It is also weird to me to have so many POVs. Most romance books are maybe both sides of the couple tops, not randomly almost every character in the whole book.
I won't spoil it specifically, but this is also the weirdest love triangle I have ever read. Love triangle might not be the right term, but it pretty much is somehow.
Lastly, cliff hanger much. Why? Absolutely nothing was resolved from the plot. I have no idea what the point of this book was.
So, in conclusion, I have learned my lesson. I will not be reading any other books from new authors without at least 1,000 ratings.
First, the setup before what I would consider the plot took about 20% of the book. That is very odd. I don't want to say characters pop into life right before the romance part of these kinds of books, but we also don't hear the lead's whole life story either which is pretty much what happened here.
It is also weird to me to have so many POVs. Most romance books are maybe both sides of the couple tops, not randomly almost every character in the whole book.
I won't spoil it specifically, but this is also the weirdest love triangle I have ever read. Love triangle might not be the right term, but it pretty much is somehow.
Lastly, cliff hanger much. Why? Absolutely nothing was resolved from the plot. I have no idea what the point of this book was.
So, in conclusion, I have learned my lesson. I will not be reading any other books from new authors without at least 1,000 ratings.
May 6, 2025
This is the author's first book. I won it on GR's. I applaud the author for taking a storyline and running with it, but this reads like a first or maybe a second draft and then someone just said "send it". The story idea intrigued me, but I can't get over the writing style. Everything is explained (with parentheses, just like this) as if the reader didn't know how to use deductive reasoning if they didn't know what a certain word might mean. Is there such thing as being too descriptive? Yes, yes there is.
The final straw was the subtle fat shaming, and "oh it wasn't so bad sitting next to a fat person because they were SO nice it made up for them being fat" mindset. Yeah, we're not doing that in 2024 in a book that is supposed to be a cozy-ish sort of romance book!
I really wanted to like it. I mean, hello, there is a Scots in a kilt on the cover!! Ultimately, I just couldn't push through any more. Life is too short to read books for pleasure that feel like you're reading for homework.
The final straw was the subtle fat shaming, and "oh it wasn't so bad sitting next to a fat person because they were SO nice it made up for them being fat" mindset. Yeah, we're not doing that in 2024 in a book that is supposed to be a cozy-ish sort of romance book!
I really wanted to like it. I mean, hello, there is a Scots in a kilt on the cover!! Ultimately, I just couldn't push through any more. Life is too short to read books for pleasure that feel like you're reading for homework.
October 19, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5)
Smelling Daisies is an engaging blend of historical romance, fantasy, and military action. From the humorous start, I was immediately drawn into Daisy Dufresne's story, which made her a relatable character. I enjoyed the rich descriptions of the story and I felt fully immersed in Daisy’s journey. The pacing was well-executed, seamlessly combining modern and historical elements. I appreciated that the romance was balanced within the plot, adding depth without taking over the story. The time-travel twist added another layer of excitement. Though I found it a bit confusing when some characters referred to themselves in the third person, the book’s humor, intense emotions, and Daisy’s inner dialogue kept me hooked. If you love time-travel romance, historical adventures, and strong heroines, Smelling Daisies is a fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Smelling Daisies is an engaging blend of historical romance, fantasy, and military action. From the humorous start, I was immediately drawn into Daisy Dufresne's story, which made her a relatable character. I enjoyed the rich descriptions of the story and I felt fully immersed in Daisy’s journey. The pacing was well-executed, seamlessly combining modern and historical elements. I appreciated that the romance was balanced within the plot, adding depth without taking over the story. The time-travel twist added another layer of excitement. Though I found it a bit confusing when some characters referred to themselves in the third person, the book’s humor, intense emotions, and Daisy’s inner dialogue kept me hooked. If you love time-travel romance, historical adventures, and strong heroines, Smelling Daisies is a fantastic read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
March 1, 2025
Just finished this novel by Canadian authors Elysia and Mark Stevens.
My favourite genre is Historical Fiction, so I was excited when the protagonist, Daisy, time traveled to Medieval Scotland in the thirteenth century during William I's reign.
Although trained in the army, nothing prepares Daisy for the dangerous life she finds herself thrown into. Although being a character with a lot of spunk and determination, Daisy is able to hold her own.
I don't like to give too much away in my review, but I did not anticipate the ending—at all! That surprised and delighted me!
Last, the authors have provided readers with the chance to vote on the next "Chronicle of Daisy"—(by April 2025). I love their idea of getting their readers involved! Hmmm . . .whatever will I choose!?
My favourite genre is Historical Fiction, so I was excited when the protagonist, Daisy, time traveled to Medieval Scotland in the thirteenth century during William I's reign.
Although trained in the army, nothing prepares Daisy for the dangerous life she finds herself thrown into. Although being a character with a lot of spunk and determination, Daisy is able to hold her own.
I don't like to give too much away in my review, but I did not anticipate the ending—at all! That surprised and delighted me!
Last, the authors have provided readers with the chance to vote on the next "Chronicle of Daisy"—(by April 2025). I love their idea of getting their readers involved! Hmmm . . .whatever will I choose!?
January 9, 2025
I want to start by saying I love book set in old world Scotland 💕
This book had action, adventure, romance and even an element of fantasy with some time travel. A little bit of everything that came together so well.
Daisy as a FMC was refreshing. She’s an intelligent badass who is hilarious. One of my favorite Daisy quotes was “I can’t run fast with half a garden salad between my legs.”
Laird Alick was a charmer. I mean, he charmed me! After everything Daisy has been through I was rooting for her and Lord Alick. I just have one thing to say about that ending, I did not see that coming!
This book had action, adventure, romance and even an element of fantasy with some time travel. A little bit of everything that came together so well.
Daisy as a FMC was refreshing. She’s an intelligent badass who is hilarious. One of my favorite Daisy quotes was “I can’t run fast with half a garden salad between my legs.”
Laird Alick was a charmer. I mean, he charmed me! After everything Daisy has been through I was rooting for her and Lord Alick. I just have one thing to say about that ending, I did not see that coming!
November 20, 2024
What a love story!
I won this novel through Goodreads giveaway.
This novel had me not wanting to put the book down! Daisy is so strong, smart and powerful. Oh, and she’s funny! Seeing Daisy work through loss and pain, even though she had trouble remembering what happened put a little perspective in real world life. The love she lost and found throughout the book, the friends she made, made this an interesting read.
The ending had me on my toes!
I recommend this read to anyone who loves Rom-com!
I won this novel through Goodreads giveaway.
This novel had me not wanting to put the book down! Daisy is so strong, smart and powerful. Oh, and she’s funny! Seeing Daisy work through loss and pain, even though she had trouble remembering what happened put a little perspective in real world life. The love she lost and found throughout the book, the friends she made, made this an interesting read.
The ending had me on my toes!
I recommend this read to anyone who loves Rom-com!
December 26, 2024
I was given this as a ARC. Some typos are still present in the copy I have on kindle. There’s also a lot of parts of the story that are missing - such as the ending fight and they find out that Alivk’s sister is missing - the author jumps to that but forgets to write how they found that information out.
It’s a good story , but could have had a few scenes deleted (chapters really). It was hard to get into, but eventually I was able to get into it once the main character goes back into time.
It’s a good story , but could have had a few scenes deleted (chapters really). It was hard to get into, but eventually I was able to get into it once the main character goes back into time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2025
"Smelling Daisies" by Elysia Stevens is a captivating time-travel romance. The story follows Daisy, a modern-day soldier who is transported to medieval Scotland. She faces various challenges and finds romance with a laird named Alick while contending with the dangers posed by a baron named Thomas. This engaging tale blends humor, heart, and historical intrigue, making it a delightful read for fans of time-travel romance.
January 23, 2025
I love the characters and the story line. I love the 90s reference that kept me giggling throughout the book. Daisy captured my imagination with her I can do attitude. The ups and downs were hard because I was able to connect with Daisy. It took me a bit longer to read it as I wanted to have time to read and enjoy the book. Honestly I have recommended the book to many friends and family. It was well written and captivating.
November 24, 2024
This book is absolutely amazing! If you love the Outlander series, you’ll fall in love with this too. The characters are so captivating, especially Daisy. She’s such a relatable and strong FMC, navigating grief and life with resilience. The love story is beautifully written—I laughed, I cried, and I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend this one!
December 6, 2024
This is an excellent action/adventure romance! It has all of the necessary ingredients for a huge desire to read all night. I love the main characters and am anxiously waiting for book 2.
Disclaimer: I received this ebook from BookFunnel and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
Disclaimer: I received this ebook from BookFunnel and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
November 26, 2024
I love this book!!!
March 11, 2025
SMELLING DAISIES is an impressive book,the characters are so captivating!
November 30, 2024
A witty, time travel romance where Daisy, ordered by the army to relax after an injury and still grieving a past relationship, visits Scotland. As she is one of marked humans who can time travel, she also finds herself thrust back through time where she encounters Laird Alick and his sister, Mairi. The pacing and character arcs were well written, I was engrossed from the first page to the last. A lovely and interwoven mix of contemporary romance and historical fiction, (told mainly in first person from Daisy’s PoV), this book brought action, a bit of spice, and a whole lot of humor. It ends with a major twist and a cliffhanger, as well as a nod to a “Choose Your Next Adventure”: the author asks readers to vote on the course of the next book with two major choices.
Thank you to the author(s!) for the opportunity to read and review. 4.5 stars
Thank you to the author(s!) for the opportunity to read and review. 4.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews