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Courage, Dear Heart
She’ll hate me when she finds out who I really am.
I was a goner the moment I stepped into her flower shop. Jillian Heart is everything I never expected—strong yet fragile, guarded yet full of quiet fire. But loss has left scars, and she’s convinced her heart isn’t hers to give anymore.
Still, beneath the grief, I see her—the mother who loves fiercely, the woman who once dreamed of more.
I want to be the one to show her she’s still whole. That she’s still capable of love… and being loved in return.
But the truth is a storm on the horizon, one I can’t outrun. I have to tell her everything—about me, about what I’ve been tasked to do. And when I do, I may lose her forever. I can’t accept that.
Because she feels like home in a way I never imagined possible, and I’ll do whatever it takes to prove that love doesn’t have to hurt—it can heal.
***Courage, Dear Heart is a second-chance at love romance featuring a single mom and the man who falls for her first. This story weaves together themes of comfort and hurt, love and loss, guilt and redemption, and the healing power of connection. There’s a touch of heartbreak, a lot of heart, and a guaranteed happily ever after. (Tears optional, but highly likely.)
I was a goner the moment I stepped into her flower shop. Jillian Heart is everything I never expected—strong yet fragile, guarded yet full of quiet fire. But loss has left scars, and she’s convinced her heart isn’t hers to give anymore.
Still, beneath the grief, I see her—the mother who loves fiercely, the woman who once dreamed of more.
I want to be the one to show her she’s still whole. That she’s still capable of love… and being loved in return.
But the truth is a storm on the horizon, one I can’t outrun. I have to tell her everything—about me, about what I’ve been tasked to do. And when I do, I may lose her forever. I can’t accept that.
Because she feels like home in a way I never imagined possible, and I’ll do whatever it takes to prove that love doesn’t have to hurt—it can heal.
***Courage, Dear Heart is a second-chance at love romance featuring a single mom and the man who falls for her first. This story weaves together themes of comfort and hurt, love and loss, guilt and redemption, and the healing power of connection. There’s a touch of heartbreak, a lot of heart, and a guaranteed happily ever after. (Tears optional, but highly likely.)
474 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2025
11 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Erica Alexander
13 books532 followers ♥ Heart & Hope with a Side of Sexy ♥
My love affair with books started at a very early age. I was already an avid reader at five and I remember reading everything I could put my little hands on. It did not change as I grew older and my love affair became my obsession.
I used to sneak my mom’s books that were in no way appropriated for my age and spent countless hours at the library and Barnes & Nobles. While most parents tell their kids to read, mine told me to stop reading because it was all I did.
I’ve been writing as long as I can remember but up to now, I have been a closet writer. Well, it is about time I left the closet.
I have degrees in Communications and Computer Science but left all that behind a few years ago to dedicate myself to my family and my children and in doing so, I found the time to write again.
Life is Good.
My love affair with books started at a very early age. I was already an avid reader at five and I remember reading everything I could put my little hands on. It did not change as I grew older and my love affair became my obsession.
I used to sneak my mom’s books that were in no way appropriated for my age and spent countless hours at the library and Barnes & Nobles. While most parents tell their kids to read, mine told me to stop reading because it was all I did.
I’ve been writing as long as I can remember but up to now, I have been a closet writer. Well, it is about time I left the closet.
I have degrees in Communications and Computer Science but left all that behind a few years ago to dedicate myself to my family and my children and in doing so, I found the time to write again.
Life is Good.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
March 23, 2025
This was such a sweet and emotional book.
Elliot: the man was literally perfect. Perfect. Almost too perfect 🤣
The man learned sign language to talk to her son.
He falls first.
Jillian: widow, mom, flower shop owner.
Oof the grief.
Jamie: 😭😭😭
Daisy: meddling parrot 10/10
*I’d like to petition for more books to have unique pets
A little suspense mingled in.
Family drama.
NY setting
Drops of humor
Arc review ✨
Elliot: the man was literally perfect. Perfect. Almost too perfect 🤣
The man learned sign language to talk to her son.
He falls first.
Jillian: widow, mom, flower shop owner.
Oof the grief.
Jamie: 😭😭😭
Daisy: meddling parrot 10/10
*I’d like to petition for more books to have unique pets
A little suspense mingled in.
Family drama.
NY setting
Drops of humor
Arc review ✨
April 3, 2025
WOW!! I’m at a loss for words to describe exactly how wonderfully written this book is! I can’t wait to recommend to all my book buddies and well just everyone! You do not have to be a lover of romance novels to enjoy this book it offers everything and is not your typically written HEA story!! All the feels in just the right way. This is my first read by Erica Alexander and now I’m ready to devour everything she has written to date!
April 9, 2025
Rarely do books make me wish i could erase my memory just to re-read the words all over again and this is one such book. So many emotions on this one.
H is a suit wearing hardass that earns to escape the clutches of his controlling father and h is rebuilding her life along with her son after the loss of her husband in an accident.
I loved both characters and everything else right from the first page, he was so patient with her, supporting her while also helping her heal. His interactions with the kid and the parrot was so wholesome. I loved how h had a great love and even after she lost it, she'll still open to love again.
Safety - H comes across as someone that sleeps around a lot at first but that isn't true. While he does occasionally hookup, it's not over the top nor is his past rubbed in our faces. h's husband was her childhood sweetheart and the only man that's she been with. Mild om drama from a man that's interested in her but she not into him. No ow drama.
H is a suit wearing hardass that earns to escape the clutches of his controlling father and h is rebuilding her life along with her son after the loss of her husband in an accident.
I loved both characters and everything else right from the first page, he was so patient with her, supporting her while also helping her heal. His interactions with the kid and the parrot was so wholesome. I loved how h had a great love and even after she lost it, she'll still open to love again.
Safety - H comes across as someone that sleeps around a lot at first but that isn't true. While he does occasionally hookup, it's not over the top nor is his past rubbed in our faces. h's husband was her childhood sweetheart and the only man that's she been with. Mild om drama from a man that's interested in her but she not into him. No ow drama.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2025
Just wow!! This book is beautifully written. I got swept into the stroy from the very beginning. I lost count of how many times i cried. It (in my opinion) is a very emotional book!! I was here for it. A must-read.
April 3, 2025
I didn’t want this book to end! Emotional, sweet and I just LOOOVED reading it! Jillian, her sweet little boy Jamie and the big flirt, Daisy the parrot. They have suffered a big big loss and have been trekking along in life, they never really anticipated Elliott coming into their circle and completely showing them that moving on was ok. Elliott is falling completely head over heels for this single mom, little boy and parrot. Elliott also has some issues and a very demanding father, a subject he was trying to rectify. The story is just so emotional, heartwarming and just Elliott, just so so sweet. The only complaint is I wish it was longer!!!! I didn’t want them to end. LOVE!
April 10, 2025
4.99/5
I loved this book a lot. The growth through grief, the PTSD representation for children, and the heartfelt love story. I cried an obscene amount reading this book *cough cough* Jamie... the reason it didn't get a solid 5 was just because of a reaction to the conflict I didn't love, you will understand when reading! I 1000% recommend this book, it's witty, heartfelt, and shows that loss and grief is not the end of your life. Thank you so much for the beautiful ARC!
I loved this book a lot. The growth through grief, the PTSD representation for children, and the heartfelt love story. I cried an obscene amount reading this book *cough cough* Jamie... the reason it didn't get a solid 5 was just because of a reaction to the conflict I didn't love, you will understand when reading! I 1000% recommend this book, it's witty, heartfelt, and shows that loss and grief is not the end of your life. Thank you so much for the beautiful ARC!
March 26, 2025
3/25/2025
This book gave ALL the feels. While this is absolutely a love story (Elliott and Jillian), it is also so much more. At it's core I feel that this is a story about Jillian a 30 year old woman, her 6 year old son Jamie and their journey of healing after a tragedy. They lost their husband and father, and after two years, are desperately trying to heal and find their new "normal" and what life is like without him.
I found this to be so relatable and I think it, in part, is because I could so easily see myself in Jillian's shoes if something ever happened to my husband. I may have gotten a bit emotional a few times. Jillian is 30 (I'm 34), Her son Jamie is 6 (my son is 4, the same age Jamie was when he loses his dad), and the tragedy just so happened to take place ON MY BIRTHDAY. I couldn't stop myself from finding parallels and relating to Jillian.
Jillian meets Elliott at her flower shop while she is working (he has been a long-standing customer and usually ordered online). She is professional and courteous, but as soon as Elliott becomes even slightly flirtatious, the walls and defenses go up. GIRL, I DON'T BLAME YOU. But Elliott, the MAN that you are 🤤😍. This man may have (accidentally) put his foot in his mouth during their first meeting, but he does the cutest gesture to make up for it. When I say this man literally never ONCE let me down. I am saying it with my whole chest. He was respectful, he was sincere, he was swoony. He gave Jillian the patience and grace that a woman so desperately needs when trying again after losing her husband.
This book was a slow burn, and she made Elliott work for it. Well, actually, no. She didn't make him do anything. She was clear with where she stood and was always honest and up front and Elliott PUT IN THE WORK because he knew she was worth it and liked her for who she was. Flaws and baggage and all. He never once didn't include Jamie or make him feel like an afterthought. He knew they were a package deal and treated them both with the respect that they deserved. This (to me) wasn't insta-love. It was growth both in character and their relationship development and in these types of stories (second chance romance), I feel it needs the time to grow and develop to really feel that deep connection to the characters and between them. The communication in this was *chef's kiss*
I don't sign up for arcs often, and when I do, it's only when I truly feel that I would like the story from what the blurb says. THIS DELIVERED. It was everything I needed it to be and I wouldn't change a thing. Thank you to Grey's and Erica Alexander for the arc!
Honorable mention goes out to Daisy because this is only the second book I've ever read with a pet bird and she was PERFECT.
3/14/25- I just got notified that I will be getting an e-arc and so excited! I was really hoping I'd be one of the lucky ones for this book because the description really intrigues me!
Can't wait!
This book gave ALL the feels. While this is absolutely a love story (Elliott and Jillian), it is also so much more. At it's core I feel that this is a story about Jillian a 30 year old woman, her 6 year old son Jamie and their journey of healing after a tragedy. They lost their husband and father, and after two years, are desperately trying to heal and find their new "normal" and what life is like without him.
I found this to be so relatable and I think it, in part, is because I could so easily see myself in Jillian's shoes if something ever happened to my husband. I may have gotten a bit emotional a few times. Jillian is 30 (I'm 34), Her son Jamie is 6 (my son is 4, the same age Jamie was when he loses his dad), and the tragedy just so happened to take place ON MY BIRTHDAY. I couldn't stop myself from finding parallels and relating to Jillian.
Jillian meets Elliott at her flower shop while she is working (he has been a long-standing customer and usually ordered online). She is professional and courteous, but as soon as Elliott becomes even slightly flirtatious, the walls and defenses go up. GIRL, I DON'T BLAME YOU. But Elliott, the MAN that you are 🤤😍. This man may have (accidentally) put his foot in his mouth during their first meeting, but he does the cutest gesture to make up for it. When I say this man literally never ONCE let me down. I am saying it with my whole chest. He was respectful, he was sincere, he was swoony. He gave Jillian the patience and grace that a woman so desperately needs when trying again after losing her husband.
This book was a slow burn, and she made Elliott work for it. Well, actually, no. She didn't make him do anything. She was clear with where she stood and was always honest and up front and Elliott PUT IN THE WORK because he knew she was worth it and liked her for who she was. Flaws and baggage and all. He never once didn't include Jamie or make him feel like an afterthought. He knew they were a package deal and treated them both with the respect that they deserved. This (to me) wasn't insta-love. It was growth both in character and their relationship development and in these types of stories (second chance romance), I feel it needs the time to grow and develop to really feel that deep connection to the characters and between them. The communication in this was *chef's kiss*
I don't sign up for arcs often, and when I do, it's only when I truly feel that I would like the story from what the blurb says. THIS DELIVERED. It was everything I needed it to be and I wouldn't change a thing. Thank you to Grey's and Erica Alexander for the arc!
Honorable mention goes out to Daisy because this is only the second book I've ever read with a pet bird and she was PERFECT.
3/14/25- I just got notified that I will be getting an e-arc and so excited! I was really hoping I'd be one of the lucky ones for this book because the description really intrigues me!
Can't wait!
March 27, 2025
Oh the emotional ride you’ll take with this story!
I love Elliott and how he showed up for her in all the right ways! She was absolutely heartbroken and yet he helped piece her back together.
Super cute and heartwarming book with a touch of spice.
I love Elliott and how he showed up for her in all the right ways! She was absolutely heartbroken and yet he helped piece her back together.
Super cute and heartwarming book with a touch of spice.
March 28, 2025
This is my first Erica Alexander book and it definitely won’t be my last. This book took me in and I couldn’t put it down. It was emotional, heartbreaking, and heartwarming. Two lead characters that were broken by their childhoods and tragedy. And a little boy who you’ll fall in love with who is the glue to this couple. Jillian owns a florist shop and is a widow with a young son Jamie. Jamie has been mute since he was in the car accident in which his father died. Jillian is stuck in grief and guilt about her son and late husband. Elliot is a lawyer who was groomed from a child to be a partner in the family law firm. His father was cold and he fell short of his father’s approval always. He’s hanging on until he turns 35 so he can get his trust and help his sisters and female cousins who have been discriminated in the firm and by the family. Elliot walks in the shop to place an order. Jillian realizes he’s Mr Monday, a nickname because he sends women flowers on Mondays. She thinks he’s a player but he’s just being polite to the women his father makes him date. He immediately falls for her. A slow friendship to relationship begins and Jamie loves him as well as their bird. Jillian slowly starts to grow and come to terms with her issues and Jamie starts to heal. But a secret comes out before Elliot can explain. It was an amazing story that touches your soul. I actually cried at a few parts. You must read this book. It is a wonderful story of the resilience of people who have been damaged by life and how they trust and work to rise above it.
April 10, 2025
Beautiful
This story will touch the deepest parts of your heart and make you believe in second chances and finding love in the most unexpected ways.
This story will touch the deepest parts of your heart and make you believe in second chances and finding love in the most unexpected ways.
April 3, 2025
****ARC****
Thanks to Grey's Promo for selecting me for this ARC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing this amazing book. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤
THIS. BOOK. 5 stars.
****ARC****
Thanks to Grey's Promo for selecting me for this ARC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing this amazing book. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤
This is by far one of my best reads of the year. Erica Alexander has outdone herself with this one and plus this is my first read from her and it certainly won't be the last.
Jillian and Elliott has my heart and not to mention Jamie. These two ran in and I don't want them to leave. My heart broke and mended back with this book. My Jillian and her heartbreak with CJ. I grieved with her. I cried with her. I went through all the stages of grief and fear with her. And then at the same time I was rooting rooting for Elliott every single second of the book. I love their love. The way he was so patient with her and he always fought for her. The way she let go and let him in. The way they just kept showing up for each other and they took their time to figure things out; mostly on her side of course, but in the end everything worked out and they got their HEA.
And Jamie. That beautiful little boy. I was rooting for that little boy as well. Every step of the way. Seeing him Elliott made my heart warm. Then when he started making noises and then said "I love you mommy"? The dam broke. I jumped up in bed and screamed "HE SPOKE!". He was also one of the reasons I think always brought Jillian and Elliott together because Elliott understood that it wasn't only Jillian's heart he had to win but the main guy in her life too which was Jamie.
Overall I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. No surprises there of course. But seriously I. LOVE. THIS. BOOK. Can we also talk about the fact that Jillian and CJ had spoken about what would happen if he died before her and how he wanted her to move on and he said certain things that when you see it happen, you can only sum that up to fate and that CJ was always going to send Elliott for her. To help her heal and to help her find herself again. For Elliott, she made him realize what he truly wanted out of life which was a family of his own and basically doing better than his dad because ugh! Anyway, this book was *chefs kiss* and I loved also the side characters. Sheila, Grandma Grace and Leonora were the best friends they could ask for. They're the found family aspect of the book and I loved it. The ending was also perfect, they truly got their happy ending.
P.S. I love me some Narnia too. One of my favorite movie series.
Thanks to Grey's Promo for selecting me for this ARC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing this amazing book. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤
THIS. BOOK. 5 stars.
****ARC****
Thanks to Grey's Promo for selecting me for this ARC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing this amazing book. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤
This is by far one of my best reads of the year. Erica Alexander has outdone herself with this one and plus this is my first read from her and it certainly won't be the last.
Jillian and Elliott has my heart and not to mention Jamie. These two ran in and I don't want them to leave. My heart broke and mended back with this book. My Jillian and her heartbreak with CJ. I grieved with her. I cried with her. I went through all the stages of grief and fear with her. And then at the same time I was rooting rooting for Elliott every single second of the book. I love their love. The way he was so patient with her and he always fought for her. The way she let go and let him in. The way they just kept showing up for each other and they took their time to figure things out; mostly on her side of course, but in the end everything worked out and they got their HEA.
And Jamie. That beautiful little boy. I was rooting for that little boy as well. Every step of the way. Seeing him Elliott made my heart warm. Then when he started making noises and then said "I love you mommy"? The dam broke. I jumped up in bed and screamed "HE SPOKE!". He was also one of the reasons I think always brought Jillian and Elliott together because Elliott understood that it wasn't only Jillian's heart he had to win but the main guy in her life too which was Jamie.
Overall I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. No surprises there of course. But seriously I. LOVE. THIS. BOOK. Can we also talk about the fact that Jillian and CJ had spoken about what would happen if he died before her and how he wanted her to move on and he said certain things that when you see it happen, you can only sum that up to fate and that CJ was always going to send Elliott for her. To help her heal and to help her find herself again. For Elliott, she made him realize what he truly wanted out of life which was a family of his own and basically doing better than his dad because ugh! Anyway, this book was *chefs kiss* and I loved also the side characters. Sheila, Grandma Grace and Leonora were the best friends they could ask for. They're the found family aspect of the book and I loved it. The ending was also perfect, they truly got their happy ending.
P.S. I love me some Narnia too. One of my favorite movie series.
April 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
I waited to read this one. One because I just knew it was gonna be a good one and two, because I knew it was gonna wreck me, and I wasn't ready for the book hangover. And wreck me it did!
Jillian's journey of healing after her husband's tragic car accident was so real and raw you felt like you were right there with her. I was agonizing over every decision, and cheering her on with every milestone she reached. Elliot was literally every single green flag that ever walked the earth. Realizing early on that Jillian was worth the wait and effort and showed up for her in exactly the way her and her son needed. What hit me the hardest was little Jamie and how Elliot took care of him as if he was his own from the very beginning, not to win brownie points with Jillian, but simply because he wanted to. 😭
I was crying, and laughing, and feeling alllllll the feels. I read it in two sittings I literally couldn't put it down. This is one that I'll definitely be thinking about for a long while. I will definitely be rereading again very soon.
Thank you Erica Alexander and Greys Promotions for an ARC of this book!
💗single mom
💗comfort/hurt
💗slow-burn
💗strong heroine
💗he falls first
💗protective cinnamon roll hero
💗second chance at love
Spice: 🌶️
I waited to read this one. One because I just knew it was gonna be a good one and two, because I knew it was gonna wreck me, and I wasn't ready for the book hangover. And wreck me it did!
Jillian's journey of healing after her husband's tragic car accident was so real and raw you felt like you were right there with her. I was agonizing over every decision, and cheering her on with every milestone she reached. Elliot was literally every single green flag that ever walked the earth. Realizing early on that Jillian was worth the wait and effort and showed up for her in exactly the way her and her son needed. What hit me the hardest was little Jamie and how Elliot took care of him as if he was his own from the very beginning, not to win brownie points with Jillian, but simply because he wanted to. 😭
I was crying, and laughing, and feeling alllllll the feels. I read it in two sittings I literally couldn't put it down. This is one that I'll definitely be thinking about for a long while. I will definitely be rereading again very soon.
Thank you Erica Alexander and Greys Promotions for an ARC of this book!
💗single mom
💗comfort/hurt
💗slow-burn
💗strong heroine
💗he falls first
💗protective cinnamon roll hero
💗second chance at love
July 6, 2025
I honestly couldn’t put this book down. From the start, it grabbed me and didn’t let go. Jillian, her son Jamie, and even Daisy the parrot felt so real, like you could step into their world. The story wasn’t just about romance, it showed so much heart and raw emotion dealing with loss and healing. Elliott was the perfect mix of sweet and patient, never rushing Jillian or ignoring Jamie. The way he cared for both of them made everything feel genuine. Their love grew naturally, with all the ups and downs. I cried way more times than I expected because it was so touching, but also laughed and smiled a lot. The book handled grief and moving on with such honesty. Honestly, I wished it was longer because I didn’t want to say goodbye to these characters. Definitely recommending this one to anyone who loves emotional, well written stories that go beyond a typical romance. Thank you so much to the author for gifting me a copy of her book and giving me the opportunity to read it, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
April 3, 2025
This book is so good!!! I could not put it down. It's jam packed full of heart and feels. I had tears in my eyes a few times while reading. Jamie and Jillian's backstory just broke my heart. That loss they faced has these two going through the motions of life until Elliot enters their lives. Elliot is exactly who these two needed in their life. I loved watching the joy coming back to Jillian and Jamie. It also brought me joy to see how much they lit up Elliot's life too. I loved Elliot's sisters and grandma. Elliot is prime book boyfriend material! There is even a spirited flirty parrot named Daisy. I loved how she flirts with Elliot. I can't recommend this one enough. It's such a beautiful story!
April 17, 2025
Courage, Dear Heart by Erica Alexander is a beautifully written second-chance romance that really pulls at the heartstrings. The story follows Jillian, a single mother dealing with profound loss, and Elliott, who is drawn to her quiet strength and resilience. It’s emotional, raw, and incredibly real.
The characters feel genuine, and the journey they undertake is filled with healing, hope, and the slow rebuilding of trust.
If you're into heartfelt love stories that dive into real-life struggles and personal growth, this book definitely hits the mark. It's not just about romance—it's about finding courage in the hard stuff and learning to open your heart again.
The characters feel genuine, and the journey they undertake is filled with healing, hope, and the slow rebuilding of trust.
If you're into heartfelt love stories that dive into real-life struggles and personal growth, this book definitely hits the mark. It's not just about romance—it's about finding courage in the hard stuff and learning to open your heart again.
April 3, 2025
4.75⭐️
I didn't think I was emotionally ready for this one (because you WILL cry), but I'm glad I pushed through. This was so beautifully bittersweet. It was so unique and intriguing. I loved everything about this book. Elliott, Jillian, Jaime and Daisy were the perfect little family. I loved Elliott's sisters and Grace. I know this is a standalone but I'm hoping Sheila, Sabrina and Elsa get books or at the very least, novellas. That one momento (iykyk) was everything. Such an integral part of the story. I'll be thinking about this one for a while. Thank you to Grey's Promotions for this arc. Also please check your triggers.
I didn't think I was emotionally ready for this one (because you WILL cry), but I'm glad I pushed through. This was so beautifully bittersweet. It was so unique and intriguing. I loved everything about this book. Elliott, Jillian, Jaime and Daisy were the perfect little family. I loved Elliott's sisters and Grace. I know this is a standalone but I'm hoping Sheila, Sabrina and Elsa get books or at the very least, novellas. That one momento (iykyk) was everything. Such an integral part of the story. I'll be thinking about this one for a while. Thank you to Grey's Promotions for this arc. Also please check your triggers.
April 3, 2025
Jillian is a resilient, fragile, guarded, and determined widow and single mom to her son, and she is suffering profound grief after the loss of her husband. From the moment Elliott walks into Jillian’s flower shop he is smitten with her. Will Elliott be able to break through the walls around Jillian’s heart, and convince her to open her heart again for love?
This is a well written slow burn, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, loss, grief, guilt, redemption, healing, second chance at love, and romance, which leads to an entertaining and heartfelt addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
This is a well written slow burn, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, loss, grief, guilt, redemption, healing, second chance at love, and romance, which leads to an entertaining and heartfelt addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
April 6, 2025
I loved every second of this book, the emotional toll this book had on me is unbelievable. I’m not much of a crier while reading, but the trauma and grief they went through brought every emotion out of me.
Would I recommend this book, only to people who want to be emotionally impacted while reading.
Would I recommend this book, only to people who want to be emotionally impacted while reading.
April 7, 2025
Beautiful book. It was a great reading. I loved Elliot, how he loves both of them.
You definitely need to read it.
(I was wishing for her to really put a stop to her mother. That woman was awful.)
One of kind pet! Daisy was so cute.
You definitely need to read it.
(I was wishing for her to really put a stop to her mother. That woman was awful.)
One of kind pet! Daisy was so cute.
April 3, 2025
Amazon / Amazon Worldwide / Standard paperback / Color special edition
Jillian has been just existing for her son since she lost her husband. She has her son, Daisy the parrot, and her job as a florist. Then Elliott waltzes into her flower shop, and eventually into her heart. Now she's seeing herself in a new light, and wondering if she's truly ready to move on and find love again.
Elliott walked into the flower shop he regularly used, only online, and saw the most beautiful woman. Even after he had to take his foot out of his mouth, he was entranced by her, and even her precocious son. Now he's falling headlong, knowing he has a secret that could ruin everything. Should he tell her and risk losing her? Or not and let her find out then definitely lose her?
I shed more than a few tears while reading Elliott and Jillian's emotional love story, and I loved every word of it, the emotional parts, the sweet parts, the slow burn, and the hopeful ending.
ARC provided by Grey's Promotions for an honest review.
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March 24, 2025
I'm actually going to give this 4.5/5 stars. This was such a great read. The only thing I didn't like was the insta love situation. I have a hard time with that in books. Other than that, I absolutely adored Jillian and Elliot's (and Jamie and Daisy!) story.
Jillian is a widow of 2 years when she meets Elliot. However, she has known OF Elliot for several years. He has been ordering flowers from her shop for years, but always online. Then one day, Elliot decides to swing in after finishing up a jog, since he's right in the area, in person. It's an instant attraction on both sides. Also, instant attraction from Jillian's bird, Daisy, towards Elliot. Jamie also makes his silent presence known.
Elliot has never been able to meet anyone he was interested in getting to know on a deeper level or try a relationship with. When he meets Jillian, Jamie and Daisy, that all changes. Jillian and Jamie are both still grieving on a deep level. Elliot is so patient and kind with both of them. He lets them both take things at a level they're comfortable with. Elliot does everything right to show them the kind of man he is and how much he wants to be with the both of them.
The story is a little long, but I liked that because I helped me feel the depth and growth of their relationship over time. It wasn't just a jump in the sheet's kind of thing. Elliot really wanted to make sure both Jillian and Jamie were comfortable and able to call the shots themselves. I loved being along for the ride.
This was a great story about how you have no choice but to keep living after losing a loved one. Grief is hard and unexplainable with no timeline. It told the story of trying to live despite feeling guilty for living and learning how to be okay with it and understand that you don't have to feel guilty for still being alive.
Thank you to Grey's Promotions and the author, Erica Alexander, for this ARC! I had a great time reading it and was able to feel a great connection with all of the characters. The addition of a bird in a story was amazing and I don't think the story would have been as good without it.
Jillian is a widow of 2 years when she meets Elliot. However, she has known OF Elliot for several years. He has been ordering flowers from her shop for years, but always online. Then one day, Elliot decides to swing in after finishing up a jog, since he's right in the area, in person. It's an instant attraction on both sides. Also, instant attraction from Jillian's bird, Daisy, towards Elliot. Jamie also makes his silent presence known.
Elliot has never been able to meet anyone he was interested in getting to know on a deeper level or try a relationship with. When he meets Jillian, Jamie and Daisy, that all changes. Jillian and Jamie are both still grieving on a deep level. Elliot is so patient and kind with both of them. He lets them both take things at a level they're comfortable with. Elliot does everything right to show them the kind of man he is and how much he wants to be with the both of them.
The story is a little long, but I liked that because I helped me feel the depth and growth of their relationship over time. It wasn't just a jump in the sheet's kind of thing. Elliot really wanted to make sure both Jillian and Jamie were comfortable and able to call the shots themselves. I loved being along for the ride.
This was a great story about how you have no choice but to keep living after losing a loved one. Grief is hard and unexplainable with no timeline. It told the story of trying to live despite feeling guilty for living and learning how to be okay with it and understand that you don't have to feel guilty for still being alive.
Thank you to Grey's Promotions and the author, Erica Alexander, for this ARC! I had a great time reading it and was able to feel a great connection with all of the characters. The addition of a bird in a story was amazing and I don't think the story would have been as good without it.
April 2, 2025
This wonderfully insightful and emotional book is a an illustration of loss, grief and finding a way to move forward, to open one’s heart up to love again. It is also a story about family expectations, the burden they can be and how one deals with them. Jillian and her young son Jamie are still mired in grief two years after the death of her husband, his father. When Elliott enters her life, she is not at all ready to let go of her grief. Their first moments are awkward, a bit painful and guarded. Yet, both of them are very aware of the other. His apology is heartfelt and sincere, but it is the way that her mischievous and flirty parrot reacts to him that convinces Jillian that Elliott is a good guy. As their story unfolds, Elliott’s kind, charming and self-deprecating demeanor gradually begins to lower the walls that Jillian had placed around her heart. She learns her own assumptions about him are off base too and they begin to form a friendship, though Elliott is soon hoping for more. His kindness, patience and persistence help to gradually win the hearts of the two people who have become all important to him, Jillian and Jamie.
It is impossible not to like Jillian, Jamie and Elliott. She is resilient, determined and understandably guarded after a profound loss, as well as a fierce Mama bear. Jamie’s traumatic mutism is heartbreaking because of the reason behind it, but it doesn’t stop him from being fiercely protective of his mother. He is a sweet, adorable scene stealer. Elliott a really good guy who has a great relationship with his sisters and grandma, tries to please his controlling father, respects Jillian’s grief process and likes kids. He doesn’t try to rush or crowd her, or make demands. Their relationship moves at her pace and he knows that her son is her first priority. Their path forward is not without its bumps, setbacks and twists, but they do find their way to being a family together.
This heartwarming and endearing book is well worth reading and has my full recommendation.
It is impossible not to like Jillian, Jamie and Elliott. She is resilient, determined and understandably guarded after a profound loss, as well as a fierce Mama bear. Jamie’s traumatic mutism is heartbreaking because of the reason behind it, but it doesn’t stop him from being fiercely protective of his mother. He is a sweet, adorable scene stealer. Elliott a really good guy who has a great relationship with his sisters and grandma, tries to please his controlling father, respects Jillian’s grief process and likes kids. He doesn’t try to rush or crowd her, or make demands. Their relationship moves at her pace and he knows that her son is her first priority. Their path forward is not without its bumps, setbacks and twists, but they do find their way to being a family together.
This heartwarming and endearing book is well worth reading and has my full recommendation.
April 5, 2025
This was probably one of the most wholesome books I have ever read. It’s so well written. You’ll feel like you’re going through this book with these characters right along side them in New York. Jillian’s feelings of grief flowed right off the page. She was so strong and such an amazing mom to Jamie, even if she never saw that in herself until months later. Jamie was such a sweet little boy. He had been through more than anyone deserves to go through. All by the time he was 4 years old. He was a fierce protector of his mama with a loyal heart. Elliot came into their lives when they least expected it. “Mr. Monday” strolled himself right into Jillian’s flower shop and got thrown for a loop 😂 He was so patient, kind and loving towards Jillian AND Jamie. Never once rushing her, while being honest about his feelings and intentions. He never once felt jealous or tried to replace CJ. He was always understanding of Jillian’s reservations about starting a new relationship. Elliot and Jamie’s relationship…ugh get the tissues. The man learned sign language to communicate with Jamie 😭 If that doesn’t say he was down bad for both Jamie and his mama I don’t know what does. Elliot and Jillian go through some trying times and not so ideal situations due to Elliot’s father and just bad luck. But they do get their hard fought HEA. The ONLY thing I didn’t like about this story was that Elliot too Jillian’s last name when they got married. I think that should have stayed something special between CJ and Jillian. I would have loved to see Jillian take Elliot’s last name instead. But overall this was still an amazing book and I cannot recommend it enough.
Tropes:
He falls first
Single mom
Sweet 6 year old boy
Florist FMC
Lawyer MMC
Widow FMC
Love after loss
Meddling parrot
Tropes:
He falls first
Single mom
Sweet 6 year old boy
Florist FMC
Lawyer MMC
Widow FMC
Love after loss
Meddling parrot
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2025
•single mother
•widow
•nyc setting
•he falls first
•slow burn
•dual pov
Jillian and Jaime are two years post accident where Jillian lost her husband and childhood sweetheart and Jaime lost his dad at just four years old while he was in the car. Ever since Jaime has been experiencing tramautic mutism until Elliot, a frequent online customer strolls into the shop one day and keeps coming back. Jillian rightfully has her walls built high after losing someone so impactful in her life, and Elliot gave her the patience and grace needed to work through her grief instead of sitting idle in it like she had every since she lost CJ to better herself for her sweet boy. Elliot was unexpected, in the way she thought he’d be a player but once he saw her he was down bad and never made Jaime feel left out or odd, I mean their relationship alone was too sweet and he started learning asl as soon as he could to communicate with him.
This is a slow burn, they really take the time to get to know each other and grow as individuals along the way before moving their relationship beyond friendship.
Seeing the two Hearts come into themselves and find a part they lost in grief was so special to see and reading how Jaime slowly found his voice was tear jerking, I would get so excited when he’d just make a noise and don’t get me started on his first full phrase.
There is a third act “breakup” the communication on this is so odd to me since they were really good about talking things out up until this point, but does end on a happy ending.
Thank you greys and Erica Alexander for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
•widow
•nyc setting
•he falls first
•slow burn
•dual pov
Jillian and Jaime are two years post accident where Jillian lost her husband and childhood sweetheart and Jaime lost his dad at just four years old while he was in the car. Ever since Jaime has been experiencing tramautic mutism until Elliot, a frequent online customer strolls into the shop one day and keeps coming back. Jillian rightfully has her walls built high after losing someone so impactful in her life, and Elliot gave her the patience and grace needed to work through her grief instead of sitting idle in it like she had every since she lost CJ to better herself for her sweet boy. Elliot was unexpected, in the way she thought he’d be a player but once he saw her he was down bad and never made Jaime feel left out or odd, I mean their relationship alone was too sweet and he started learning asl as soon as he could to communicate with him.
This is a slow burn, they really take the time to get to know each other and grow as individuals along the way before moving their relationship beyond friendship.
Seeing the two Hearts come into themselves and find a part they lost in grief was so special to see and reading how Jaime slowly found his voice was tear jerking, I would get so excited when he’d just make a noise and don’t get me started on his first full phrase.
There is a third act “breakup” the communication on this is so odd to me since they were really good about talking things out up until this point, but does end on a happy ending.
Thank you greys and Erica Alexander for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2025
This is a very sweet story. Jillian is a widow with a young son. She owns a flower shop. Elliot is a man who uses her florist often to send flowers to women thanking them for the evening. Jillian believes he’s a player, but she has no idea his father is setting him up on these dates that he really doesn’t want to go on but he feels bad so he sends the women flowers. When they finally meet Elliot is immediately smitten but he sticks his foot in his mouth and regrets his actions. He apologizes in the nicest way and a friendship of sorts is developed. Jillian unfortunately lost her husband in a tragic way and that deeply affected her son. Although some parts of her are ready and willing to move on, she can’t. Elliot is one of those amazing men who knew the woman was worth it. He pursued her and waited, he was patient yet persistent and he loved and included her son, he even enjoyed her crazy pet. For those looking for a romance where the people slowly yet passionately fall in love than this is the book for you. There is minor drama but the story is very beautifully told. I especially loved all the side characters Elliot’s sisters and Jillian’s best friend.
April 4, 2025
I have never read anything by Erica Alexander before, OMG, this was AMAZING, amazing, AMAZING!!! If I could give this one hundred stars I would!! This a a beautifully written story, I recommend it to everyone!! Jillian Heart is a young widow of two years, she is raising her six year old son Jamie alone. Jamie has not spoken since his father was killed in a car accident. Jillian owns a successful flower shop, but is drowning in grief. Elliott is out jogging, and stops in to order flowers; Jillian finds him cocky and a player. He usually orders his flowers online, and the employee's label him Mr. Monday. Daisy, Jillian's parrot likes Elliott, nibbling at him. Elliott also meets Jamie in the shop. Elliott is pulled toward Jillian, but he can see her sadness, he sends her cupcakes. This is a minor gesture. Things build slowly but amazingly. I want an Elliott! Elliott knows that Jillian and Jamie are worth the wait!! Love the plot, great setting, and strong intense interesting characters. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Erica Alexander!!!!
April 21, 2025
This book was perfect, It was captivating from the start till the end. Both MCs were perfect, I loved how their relation bloomed I loved Eliot he was the best his patience care and love for Jillian and her son and mostly his connection with Jamie it was beautifully done by author. Emotional depths of this book was really good. Jillian was also best after what she had been through and ye she was resilient, standing on her feet for her son, who was my favourite such a good kid and we can't forget daisy the parrot 🦜 she was darling and side characters were also nice. I mostly avoid books with dead spouse trope but this was a unique book written in a such beautiful way that I enjoyed every aspects of it, even FMS's relation with her late husband was shown in a beautiful way that I loved it and my heart broke for them, I got misty eyed few times after a long time finally I got to read a good book which I not only enjoyed but actually loved. Thanks to author Erica Alexander for such a brilliant work.
March 29, 2025
Rating: 4.5 rounded to 5 stars
All the tears! This was hands down the most emotional book I've read in the recent months. The grief and second chance at love topics were tackled so beautifully, with so much care and thoughtfulness.
Jillian and Jamie's (her little boy) hearts were through a lot, but Elliot is here to glue them back together. I really enjoyed his journey from an easygoing and carefree guy who hadn't been in a committed relationship to someone who learns sigh language to communicate with a boy he met days before.
And Daisy - the funniest and most meddling parrot - was such a cute comic relief int the story! I absolutely love it when pets become full-fledged characters.
There was also some extra drama and a bit of suspense, but it didn't distract from the main topic at heart, it was a perfect supplement.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
All the tears! This was hands down the most emotional book I've read in the recent months. The grief and second chance at love topics were tackled so beautifully, with so much care and thoughtfulness.
Jillian and Jamie's (her little boy) hearts were through a lot, but Elliot is here to glue them back together. I really enjoyed his journey from an easygoing and carefree guy who hadn't been in a committed relationship to someone who learns sigh language to communicate with a boy he met days before.
And Daisy - the funniest and most meddling parrot - was such a cute comic relief int the story! I absolutely love it when pets become full-fledged characters.
There was also some extra drama and a bit of suspense, but it didn't distract from the main topic at heart, it was a perfect supplement.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
March 31, 2025
Wow! Heartbreaking and Heartwarming
Jillian Heart and her six year old son, James, are both still grieving after the death of her husband two years ago and need to stitch their hearts back together again. Elliot Foster is a goner the first time he sees Jillian and James. A deep sense of rightness settles in his chest, like a page turning in a story he did not know he was waiting for. Jillian and Elliot are both coming from different places, with neither looking for a relationship and have created many barriers to prevent one, but a force keeps drawing them together. This is a wonderful well written story that has me crying and laughing. The characters immediately wormed their way into my heart. Erica Alexander is a new author to me, but I am already looking forward to reading many more of her books. I love her style and the emotion that she put into her writing .
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Jillian Heart and her six year old son, James, are both still grieving after the death of her husband two years ago and need to stitch their hearts back together again. Elliot Foster is a goner the first time he sees Jillian and James. A deep sense of rightness settles in his chest, like a page turning in a story he did not know he was waiting for. Jillian and Elliot are both coming from different places, with neither looking for a relationship and have created many barriers to prevent one, but a force keeps drawing them together. This is a wonderful well written story that has me crying and laughing. The characters immediately wormed their way into my heart. Erica Alexander is a new author to me, but I am already looking forward to reading many more of her books. I love her style and the emotion that she put into her writing .
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
April 4, 2025
This book was such a great Second Chance at Love Romance! It was a Slow Burn but so sweet and heartwarming. Very emotional one too. It was my first read of Erica’s and it won’t be my last.
Elliot is the MMC. Lawyer who is protective and yet guarded. He falls first and hard. Jillian is the FMC. Single Mama to her adorable, brave, and smart 6 year old boy, Jamie. That boy 🥹. She’s a Florist. A Survivor. Just a beautiful woman learning to bloom again. Jillian also has a sassy🦜 named Daisy. Freaking hilarious, she not only repeated words but knew exactly when to use them. 😂
This storyline was so straightforward and honest. Heart wrenching at times and full of angst. But also about healing and hope. I just loved it. 😍
If you enjoy the below tropes, I’d highly recommend!
🦜 Second Chance At Love
🦜 Duel POV
🦜 Small Town Vibe in Big City Setting
🦜 Single Mom
🦜 He Falls First
🦜 Slow Burn
🦜 Love after Loss
🦜 Protective Hero
Elliot is the MMC. Lawyer who is protective and yet guarded. He falls first and hard. Jillian is the FMC. Single Mama to her adorable, brave, and smart 6 year old boy, Jamie. That boy 🥹. She’s a Florist. A Survivor. Just a beautiful woman learning to bloom again. Jillian also has a sassy🦜 named Daisy. Freaking hilarious, she not only repeated words but knew exactly when to use them. 😂
This storyline was so straightforward and honest. Heart wrenching at times and full of angst. But also about healing and hope. I just loved it. 😍
If you enjoy the below tropes, I’d highly recommend!
🦜 Second Chance At Love
🦜 Duel POV
🦜 Small Town Vibe in Big City Setting
🦜 Single Mom
🦜 He Falls First
🦜 Slow Burn
🦜 Love after Loss
🦜 Protective Hero
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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