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When Forty Blooms
A rare birthday. A second chance. A woman finally choosing herself.
Simone Harris has always known how to hold it down. For her son. For her clients. For the sports agency she built from scratch. She keeps things running, keeps herself moving, and keeps her heart tucked safely out of reach.
But this birthday feels different. It falls on a leap year, a date that only circles back every so often. A rare kind of day that feels like it arrives exactly when it’s meant to. The kind that makes you pause and ask what you have been pushing through just to keep going. In that stillness, something begins to surface alongside it. Fatigue. Questions. The quiet ache she has learned to ignore.
She is not falling apart. Still, something is shifting. The pressure she has lived under feels heavier than it once did. And as she begins to listen to what her spirit has been trying to say, the past reappears, bringing with it a familiar comfort, unfinished conversations, and a quiet invitation to feel again.
Simone Harris has always known how to hold it down. For her son. For her clients. For the sports agency she built from scratch. She keeps things running, keeps herself moving, and keeps her heart tucked safely out of reach.
But this birthday feels different. It falls on a leap year, a date that only circles back every so often. A rare kind of day that feels like it arrives exactly when it’s meant to. The kind that makes you pause and ask what you have been pushing through just to keep going. In that stillness, something begins to surface alongside it. Fatigue. Questions. The quiet ache she has learned to ignore.
She is not falling apart. Still, something is shifting. The pressure she has lived under feels heavier than it once did. And as she begins to listen to what her spirit has been trying to say, the past reappears, bringing with it a familiar comfort, unfinished conversations, and a quiet invitation to feel again.
Audible Audio
Published July 15, 2025
68 people are currently reading
864 people want to read
About the author
Jacinta Howard
21 books502 followersJacinta Howard is an Atlanta-based culture journalist, editor and author with more than a decade of experience across genres of media. Her bylined articles have appeared at Eater, Atlanta magazine, Shondaland, Denver Westword, BET, and Rock The Bells, LL Cool J’s media company, where she served as managing editor. Jacinta’s 2022 article about the chicken wings served at Magic City, Atlanta’s world-famous strip club, was nominated for an American Society of Magazine Editors Award, and her novels have been featured in USA Today, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Book Riot and OkayAfrica. She digs summertime, flip flops, old fashioneds, deep bass lines, good lyrics, goofy jokes, and kind people. She also believes there’s an Andre 3000 lyric to fit any situation. Her happy place is hanging on the beach somewhere with her family, preferably with a good book and a dope playlist.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
July 15, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ | I am convinced that Jacinta Howard wrote this book for me and only me. It was extremely relatable as I just turned 40 recently & some of her life choices literally mimicked mine. Simone was one of the most relatable characters I’ve ever read about.
Her and Jackson’s love story was a sight to see 🥰. Their separate journeys of self discovery & the power of forgiveness was some of my favorite themes of the book. The way Jacinta dives into how childhood trauma can affect future relationships, will certainly make you pause & think about this deeply.
Caleb is my absolute favorite! Could someone ask for a more perfect kid? If Simone & Jackson did nothing else right, they raised him with morals & values.
Last but not least, anybody knows me knows that Wesley Siobhan can do no wrong! Per usual she narrated this story to perfection & made me feel like Simone was one of my homegirls. She truly brought life to Simone’s character.
💬Favorite Quotes💬
“Self care isn’t selfish”
“People be out here with nothing to offer & unlimited expectations”
Her and Jackson’s love story was a sight to see 🥰. Their separate journeys of self discovery & the power of forgiveness was some of my favorite themes of the book. The way Jacinta dives into how childhood trauma can affect future relationships, will certainly make you pause & think about this deeply.
Caleb is my absolute favorite! Could someone ask for a more perfect kid? If Simone & Jackson did nothing else right, they raised him with morals & values.
Last but not least, anybody knows me knows that Wesley Siobhan can do no wrong! Per usual she narrated this story to perfection & made me feel like Simone was one of my homegirls. She truly brought life to Simone’s character.
💬Favorite Quotes💬
“Self care isn’t selfish”
“People be out here with nothing to offer & unlimited expectations”
July 16, 2025
What an emotional real!
Jacinta Hlward has such a beautiful way with words. This story felt so personal, like a love letter to every woman of a certain age, still dealing with the residual effects of childhood trauma. I loved the flow of the storyline and the connection between all the characters. Having Simone see herself in another young lady probably helped her more than even therapy. So glad to see such growth and communication. This is a story for all women. It felt so good reading.
Jacinta Hlward has such a beautiful way with words. This story felt so personal, like a love letter to every woman of a certain age, still dealing with the residual effects of childhood trauma. I loved the flow of the storyline and the connection between all the characters. Having Simone see herself in another young lady probably helped her more than even therapy. So glad to see such growth and communication. This is a story for all women. It felt so good reading.
August 4, 2025
4.5 Stars
A solid read with very real and relatable characters. This was my definition of a grown and sexy read.
A solid read with very real and relatable characters. This was my definition of a grown and sexy read.
August 4, 2025
As a 43 year old woman I felt this one. Just felt it. I loved everything about it.
July 17, 2025
This book is a love story, but it's more of a story about self-love, self-discovery, and healing. If you are looking for a light and fun easy, this isn't it. It's a little spicy, but I felt like it was written with so much love and tenderness. This story felt so deep and soulful, and I binged it in one sitting. <3
Alright y'all, this book gave me Kennedy Ryan's Skyland series vibes, and I absolutely loved Simone's story. I would give this book 4.5 stars. I am an absolute sucker for second chance romance stories, and I LOVED Simone. Her kindness, her love for her son and friends, her acceptance of her son's girlfriend, and especially the way she wants to help underrepresented athletes. Simone is a good blend of all of the Skyland women (Yasmen, Soledad, Hendrix). I'm a huge advocate for therapy and mental wellness and loved Simone's therapy sessions. Simone is lucky to have a friend like Logan in her corner.
Now onto the romance. Oh my gosh, can we all have someone in our lives love us as much as Jackson loved Simone. Goodness. I loved that relationship, A++, well done!
I really hope there's going to be a second book with Logan and Tristan! Logan gives me Hendrix vibes, and I am so here for it.
*Second chance
*Co-parenting
*Self-discovery and healing
Format: audiobook - Wesleigh Siobhan was phenomenal!
Thank you so much NetGalley, Jacinta Howard, and Dreamscape Media for the advanced audiobook!
Alright y'all, this book gave me Kennedy Ryan's Skyland series vibes, and I absolutely loved Simone's story. I would give this book 4.5 stars. I am an absolute sucker for second chance romance stories, and I LOVED Simone. Her kindness, her love for her son and friends, her acceptance of her son's girlfriend, and especially the way she wants to help underrepresented athletes. Simone is a good blend of all of the Skyland women (Yasmen, Soledad, Hendrix). I'm a huge advocate for therapy and mental wellness and loved Simone's therapy sessions. Simone is lucky to have a friend like Logan in her corner.
Now onto the romance. Oh my gosh, can we all have someone in our lives love us as much as Jackson loved Simone. Goodness. I loved that relationship, A++, well done!
I really hope there's going to be a second book with Logan and Tristan! Logan gives me Hendrix vibes, and I am so here for it.
*Second chance
*Co-parenting
*Self-discovery and healing
Format: audiobook - Wesleigh Siobhan was phenomenal!
Thank you so much NetGalley, Jacinta Howard, and Dreamscape Media for the advanced audiobook!
July 4, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the Audio ARC!
4 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the audio the narrator was good it flowed nicely.
I’ve never read this author before and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. Her writing reminds me a lot of Kennedy Ryan who I adore. I enjoyed Simone’s character and watching her grow throughout the book.
4 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the audio the narrator was good it flowed nicely.
I’ve never read this author before and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. Her writing reminds me a lot of Kennedy Ryan who I adore. I enjoyed Simone’s character and watching her grow throughout the book.
July 15, 2025
For me this was a really good second chance romance. Honestly it gave an adult full body experience that’s so relatable. Not everyone has all things figured out. Sometimes at 40 life can truly just be starting because things had to happen for your journey to be full of understanding and love. Jacinta did an amazing job with Simone’s story. That Wesleigh Siobhan can read the back of cereal box and make it sound spectacular.
There’s healing, mental health, family, career, emotional conversations, and more. Loved Simone’s therapy sessions and how her therapist was not taking it easy on her. Simone’s past was tough but it helped her relate to a young lady in her present. Now the path Simone and Jackson take back to each other was steamy and raw emotions from both of them. Hits right in the heart. They may have had their issues but one thing they did get right was their son. Those moments with him were top notch.
Only thing missing for me was Jackson’s pov. Nonetheless the author did incorporate his feelings very well during those conversations he had with Simone. These two are for sure meant to be.
Thank you NetGalley, Dreamscape Media and Jacinta Howard for the ALC opportunity in exchange for my honest review.
There’s healing, mental health, family, career, emotional conversations, and more. Loved Simone’s therapy sessions and how her therapist was not taking it easy on her. Simone’s past was tough but it helped her relate to a young lady in her present. Now the path Simone and Jackson take back to each other was steamy and raw emotions from both of them. Hits right in the heart. They may have had their issues but one thing they did get right was their son. Those moments with him were top notch.
Only thing missing for me was Jackson’s pov. Nonetheless the author did incorporate his feelings very well during those conversations he had with Simone. These two are for sure meant to be.
Thank you NetGalley, Dreamscape Media and Jacinta Howard for the ALC opportunity in exchange for my honest review.
August 14, 2025
For the lovers of second chance romance. Def would recommend 🥰 The audiobook was chefs kiss!
August 13, 2025
3.75 Stars ✨
This was a really cute second-chance romance! I enjoyed both the characters and the overall storyline. The book also weaves in some heavier themes that balance nicely with the lighter moments.
Dare I say it—this should have been longer? When Forty Blooms is only 262 pages, and I think we needed more time to really see Simone and Jackson work through their issues. Some of the time jumps felt a bit jarring, and spending more time in this world could have helped smooth that out.
This was a really cute second-chance romance! I enjoyed both the characters and the overall storyline. The book also weaves in some heavier themes that balance nicely with the lighter moments.
Dare I say it—this should have been longer? When Forty Blooms is only 262 pages, and I think we needed more time to really see Simone and Jackson work through their issues. Some of the time jumps felt a bit jarring, and spending more time in this world could have helped smooth that out.
July 14, 2025
ARC Reader Review:
There is so much to say about this book. The cover is so pretty and is what originally drew me in to want to read it, as well as the title indicating that it was a book about grown characters with grown character problems. The FMC--Simone--was not my favorite in the slightest. She quite literally was the cause of her own downfall with her relationship with Jackson and I felt forced to watch the downward spiral as she dealt with the consequences of her own actions. I loved how Jackson protected himself from her during the duration of the book, and even telling her how he was feeling in the moments as he was feeling them. Everything he said to her I agreed with, which I believe is what makes me dislike Simone's character because I absolutely ABHOR when they make me agree with a man. Simone's friend literally asked her what she wanted going forward in regards to Jackson and her response was a whiny "idk, idk, IDK!" Like girl, please be for real and stop wasting everyone's time.
Now outside of her relationship woes, I did enjoy her as a business person and a mom. The moment she and Jackson had with their son almost brought me to tears as I had moments before declared my annoyance with her character. It made me continue on because I wanted to see more of that dynamic of their family. Her interactions and situations with the other characters was good enough to allow me to surpass my annoyance with her. I also enjoyed the healing journey she was going through. Allowing the reader to experience her different aspects of pain/trauma and how there isn't just one right way to go about healing.
As a reader that prefers dual-POV stories, I noticed that even though there is only one POV I did not dislike it. I may have even appreciated the fact that we did not get Jackson's POV outside of what he told her. We got to see him interact with her in the same way she and their friends saw their situation and I think that was a special and interesting way about showcasing him as a character.
I really wanted to give this a 3.5 and am sad that my disdain for the FMC's relationship grievances prevents me from fully appreciating the story in it's entirety. I definitely recommend my friends to read it when it drops since they are less jaded than I am LOL
There is so much to say about this book. The cover is so pretty and is what originally drew me in to want to read it, as well as the title indicating that it was a book about grown characters with grown character problems. The FMC--Simone--was not my favorite in the slightest. She quite literally was the cause of her own downfall with her relationship with Jackson and I felt forced to watch the downward spiral as she dealt with the consequences of her own actions. I loved how Jackson protected himself from her during the duration of the book, and even telling her how he was feeling in the moments as he was feeling them. Everything he said to her I agreed with, which I believe is what makes me dislike Simone's character because I absolutely ABHOR when they make me agree with a man. Simone's friend literally asked her what she wanted going forward in regards to Jackson and her response was a whiny "idk, idk, IDK!" Like girl, please be for real and stop wasting everyone's time.
Now outside of her relationship woes, I did enjoy her as a business person and a mom. The moment she and Jackson had with their son almost brought me to tears as I had moments before declared my annoyance with her character. It made me continue on because I wanted to see more of that dynamic of their family. Her interactions and situations with the other characters was good enough to allow me to surpass my annoyance with her. I also enjoyed the healing journey she was going through. Allowing the reader to experience her different aspects of pain/trauma and how there isn't just one right way to go about healing.
As a reader that prefers dual-POV stories, I noticed that even though there is only one POV I did not dislike it. I may have even appreciated the fact that we did not get Jackson's POV outside of what he told her. We got to see him interact with her in the same way she and their friends saw their situation and I think that was a special and interesting way about showcasing him as a character.
I really wanted to give this a 3.5 and am sad that my disdain for the FMC's relationship grievances prevents me from fully appreciating the story in it's entirety. I definitely recommend my friends to read it when it drops since they are less jaded than I am LOL
January 2, 2026
Yaasssss
This was everything that I wanted it to be. It was a mature couple facing real life issues. They were navigating co-parenting along with their unresolved relationship issues. Their love and desire for each other was so strong. I was rooting so hard for them. Their mutual love of sports that they parlayed into successful careers was so dope to me. I also loved all of the Atlanta references throughout the book. I enjoyed their spicy moments, but their tender moments of love and protection really did it for me. I fell in love with Howard’s writing when I read her Prototype series years ago. It was so nice to get another book from her.
This was everything that I wanted it to be. It was a mature couple facing real life issues. They were navigating co-parenting along with their unresolved relationship issues. Their love and desire for each other was so strong. I was rooting so hard for them. Their mutual love of sports that they parlayed into successful careers was so dope to me. I also loved all of the Atlanta references throughout the book. I enjoyed their spicy moments, but their tender moments of love and protection really did it for me. I fell in love with Howard’s writing when I read her Prototype series years ago. It was so nice to get another book from her.
July 16, 2025
How is this my first book by this author!?
I absolutely loved this book on audio narrated wonderfully by Wesleigh Siobhan.
I listened to it in practically one sitting it was THAT good!
Second chance romance with an FMC that is reflective of her past, her experiences and how they inherently molded her charachter and strongly influenced her past decisions as she turns forty.
Our MMC Jackson has loved and still loves Simone dearly. They co-parent their son harmoniously and respect one another.
Both have influential careers and aspirations.
Simone turns forty on a leap year.
She's not very enthusiastic about celebrating. But goes along with birthday plans.
On her birthday, as they spend some peaceful time together conversing, quiet flickers of sparks reappear. Only time will tell what those sparks mean and what they may re-ignite and are they able and prepared to move past them or will they eruptinto flames?
Don't let the cute cartoon cover fool you. This was a deep and mildy angsty book IMO.
We only get Simones POV but it was clear how Jackson struggled to respect her decisions and not push and I was rooting for our guy! He was NOT confused about HIS feelings for her! 💖
I absolutely loved this book on audio narrated wonderfully by Wesleigh Siobhan.
I listened to it in practically one sitting it was THAT good!
Second chance romance with an FMC that is reflective of her past, her experiences and how they inherently molded her charachter and strongly influenced her past decisions as she turns forty.
Our MMC Jackson has loved and still loves Simone dearly. They co-parent their son harmoniously and respect one another.
Both have influential careers and aspirations.
Simone turns forty on a leap year.
She's not very enthusiastic about celebrating. But goes along with birthday plans.
On her birthday, as they spend some peaceful time together conversing, quiet flickers of sparks reappear. Only time will tell what those sparks mean and what they may re-ignite and are they able and prepared to move past them or will they eruptinto flames?
Don't let the cute cartoon cover fool you. This was a deep and mildy angsty book IMO.
We only get Simones POV but it was clear how Jackson struggled to respect her decisions and not push and I was rooting for our guy! He was NOT confused about HIS feelings for her! 💖
July 16, 2025
When Forty Blooms was a coming into 40s story, with a second chance at love element. If you are forty, you will likely recognize some of the effects of growing up with different family values than today's kids. And If your family resembles Simone's then Forty might look like this... Simone and Jackson divorced because of her family issues. Even though they still loved one another, their bond was broken except, the emotional and physical attraction.The couple had a smart teenaged son who seemed almost as mature as his parents. This story opened so many layers of emotional distress between a couple in an almost mid-life relationship crisis, who were unsure how to navigate the rough terrain. I wanted Jackson and Simone to survive and later thrive in a newfound connection. The story was relatable and unnerving. Especially, the situation with their son Caleb, and his girlfriend. Their teenage issue surely helped his parents see the fragility in relationships with brightened eyes. I highly recommend this second chance love story.
July 13, 2025
I loved this book so much! Second chance romance is one of my absolute favorite tropes, and this story delivered it perfectly. The emotional depth, especially the way the main character navigated her mental health, made the story feel so real and relatable. I truly enjoyed every part of it.
The only thing I wish? That we could’ve heard more from Jackson’s perspective that would’ve made it even more powerful. But honestly? Chef’s kiss!
I had never heard of this author before, and now I’m obsessed. She NAILED it. I’m literally adding all her books to my TBR right now. I can’t wait to read more from her!
So thankful I got the chance to read this ARC. Thanks to Net Galley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity!
The only thing I wish? That we could’ve heard more from Jackson’s perspective that would’ve made it even more powerful. But honestly? Chef’s kiss!
I had never heard of this author before, and now I’m obsessed. She NAILED it. I’m literally adding all her books to my TBR right now. I can’t wait to read more from her!
So thankful I got the chance to read this ARC. Thanks to Net Galley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity!
November 26, 2025
5 stars! Real. Raw. 2nd chance love!
July 20, 2025
perfect. grown, sexy, Black women being loved correctly, Black women loving on themselves correctly! Just perfect.
Chemistry and sexiness aside, here are the things that made me fall in love with this story.
●The way Simone and Jackson coparents Kaleb
●Normalizing going to therapy when you need help
●The empathy shown to Tiana in her crisis
●The honesty in the parent/child communication
●Normalizing teenage struggles without judgment
●Simone's moments of reflections and trying new things at 40
●Jackson is a MANLY man, there's no other way to describe it.
●As a 40 year old co-parenting mom, so much of this book felt like staring down a mirror! This story was so deeply personal and relatable, at times it was frightening. These are my favorite kinds of romance stories.
●I'm circling back to the mental health rep in this book because it was so accurate, so tender, so warming and the Social Worker in me snapped my fingers and rubbed my feet together at the empathy with which it was written.
●Audiobook narration? Hands down on of my best listening experiences, ever!
●So let me go back to the chemistry and sexiness now because babyyyyy! Jacinta delivered and I ate it UP! 🔥🔥🔥
You should read this!
Chemistry and sexiness aside, here are the things that made me fall in love with this story.
●The way Simone and Jackson coparents Kaleb
●Normalizing going to therapy when you need help
●The empathy shown to Tiana in her crisis
●The honesty in the parent/child communication
●Normalizing teenage struggles without judgment
●Simone's moments of reflections and trying new things at 40
●Jackson is a MANLY man, there's no other way to describe it.
●As a 40 year old co-parenting mom, so much of this book felt like staring down a mirror! This story was so deeply personal and relatable, at times it was frightening. These are my favorite kinds of romance stories.
●I'm circling back to the mental health rep in this book because it was so accurate, so tender, so warming and the Social Worker in me snapped my fingers and rubbed my feet together at the empathy with which it was written.
●Audiobook narration? Hands down on of my best listening experiences, ever!
●So let me go back to the chemistry and sexiness now because babyyyyy! Jacinta delivered and I ate it UP! 🔥🔥🔥
You should read this!
July 18, 2025
5⭐️ – A Beautifully Real Love Story About Healing and Second Chances
When Forty Blooms by Jacinta Howard was deeply relatable and touched my heart in so many ways. As a woman in my 40s, I saw myself reflected in many parts of Simone’s journey, which made this story even more impactful.
This second-chance romance centers on Simone and Jackson, a divorced couple still very much in love but separated by unresolved childhood trauma Simone must confront and heal from. Jacinta Howard brings these two to life with such care and depth. I honestly felt like I knew them. What a great man Jackson was! Let's add him to the book boyfriend list. There's nothing I love more than a man who knows what he wants and goes after it in a respectful manner.
Even after their divorce, Simone and Jackson show each other grace, co-parent beautifully, and slowly begin the journey back to one another. The pacing was perfect, and I found myself fully invested in their story, smiling often as I listened. The plot was creatively crafted, the characters were beautifully thought out, and the spice was on point!
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
When Forty Blooms by Jacinta Howard was deeply relatable and touched my heart in so many ways. As a woman in my 40s, I saw myself reflected in many parts of Simone’s journey, which made this story even more impactful.
This second-chance romance centers on Simone and Jackson, a divorced couple still very much in love but separated by unresolved childhood trauma Simone must confront and heal from. Jacinta Howard brings these two to life with such care and depth. I honestly felt like I knew them. What a great man Jackson was! Let's add him to the book boyfriend list. There's nothing I love more than a man who knows what he wants and goes after it in a respectful manner.
Even after their divorce, Simone and Jackson show each other grace, co-parent beautifully, and slowly begin the journey back to one another. The pacing was perfect, and I found myself fully invested in their story, smiling often as I listened. The plot was creatively crafted, the characters were beautifully thought out, and the spice was on point!
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
October 4, 2025
3.5-4 ⭐️The audiobook was done well.
December 23, 2025
I’ve been looking for books with FMC over 40 with a realistic view for finding and/or rediscovering love. Even though Simone seems to repeat patterns, it was still interesting to walk through her journey of realization that love doesn’t always have to be what we’ve seen in the past. I like that JaCinta Howard didn’t fall too much into a fluffy romance and allowed the reader to go through the hard stuff to get to a satisfying ending.
September 5, 2025
TW: Self harm/cutting, acute depictions of anxiety.
There’s not a trope I love more in Romance novels, than Second Chance.
There’s something so beautifully life affirming about seeing people rebuild something greater after so much hopelessness and brokenness! Sometimes people join their lives before they’ve really figured out their respective demons and those demons end up winning for a while.
Simone and Jackson’s backstories explained so much of the traumas they brought to their marriage. The different irrational fears they each had, the lack of tools and knowledge to resolve their conflicts.
I love seeing black couples lean in into the benefits of therapy. More of this!👏🏽
This was so heartbreaking and powerful at the same time.
The Romance genre really is such a great tool for difficult themes and complex nuances of life.
I liked this a lot.
There’s not a trope I love more in Romance novels, than Second Chance.
There’s something so beautifully life affirming about seeing people rebuild something greater after so much hopelessness and brokenness! Sometimes people join their lives before they’ve really figured out their respective demons and those demons end up winning for a while.
Simone and Jackson’s backstories explained so much of the traumas they brought to their marriage. The different irrational fears they each had, the lack of tools and knowledge to resolve their conflicts.
I love seeing black couples lean in into the benefits of therapy. More of this!👏🏽
This was so heartbreaking and powerful at the same time.
The Romance genre really is such a great tool for difficult themes and complex nuances of life.
I liked this a lot.
July 19, 2025
I enjoyed this book very much. When 40 hits and life looks different than you expected. This second chance romance that tells a story of a woman trying to make sure her flowers bloom. What I appreciated most about this story is that you get to see Simone come to terms with her childhood, her marriage and her mental health and how she tries to work through everything. It’s not always perfect but she puts in the work and gets her man back. Add this book to your TBR. I listened to the ALC narrated by the phenomenal Wesleigh Siobhan
July 10, 2025
i really enjoyed this one-it's grown, honest, and full of heart. howard perfectly captures what it feels like to reach a crossroads in life and wonder, "is it too late to want more?" if you love second chances and mature romance, this story is worth the read.
thank you @librofm for the free alc! @wesleigh_siobhan made the story real easy to listen to and kept me hooked the whole time. she brought the characters to life in a way that made the emotions feel even more real.
⭐️ 4 stars!!
thank you @librofm for the free alc! @wesleigh_siobhan made the story real easy to listen to and kept me hooked the whole time. she brought the characters to life in a way that made the emotions feel even more real.
⭐️ 4 stars!!
July 13, 2025
I’m approaching 40, so I was curious about this book. When Forty Blooms is about second chances, soul-searching, and healing from past trauma. It’s wild how unhealed wounds can shape us for life. Taking care of ourselves—mentally and emotionally—is so important. I highly recommend therapy.
I always enjoy reading about a girlboss, so I was definitely rooting for her. This was my first time reading Jacinta Howard, and I had a good time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC.
I always enjoy reading about a girlboss, so I was definitely rooting for her. This was my first time reading Jacinta Howard, and I had a good time.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC.
October 3, 2025
Audiobook 4.5/5
July 15, 2025
Jacinta Howard’s When Forty Blooms is an evocative, tender, and deeply resonant second chance romance that masterfully intertwines love, vulnerability, and healing. From the first note of Wesleigh Siobhan’s soulful narration, the story blooms with vivid emotion, drawing listeners into Simone and Jackson’s complex, magnetic world.
Simone and Jackson’s dynamic is nothing short of electric—raw, marrow-deep, and achingly real. Their connection transcends time and circumstance, embodying the essence of unspoken words and lingering glances. Howard portrays their journey with such authenticity, making every moment feel intimate and profoundly affecting. The quote, “My feelings for him surpass simple emotion. Together or not, he’s part of my blood cells. The molecules that make up my air,” encapsulates the depth of Simone’s emotions, resonating with anyone who’s ever experienced love that feels woven into their very being.
For lovers of second chance romances, When Forty Blooms is a treasure. There’s something incredibly powerful about watching two souls, shaped by time and experience, find their way back to each other. Howard handles this trope with grace, layering it with authentic struggles and heartfelt reconciliation.
Mental health is a central theme, and Howard approaches it with care, empathy, and a profound understanding of its complexities. She doesn’t shy away from depicting how unhealed trauma can seep into every aspect of life, influencing choices, relationships, and self-perception. The portrayal of therapy and mental health representation feels genuine and necessary, offering hope and validation to those navigating similar paths.
Wesleigh Siobhan’s narration elevates the story to another level. Her voice breathes life into Simone and Jackson’s journey, capturing every nuance of their emotions. The vividness with which she conveys both the tender and tumultuous moments makes the story unforgettable.
When Forty Blooms is more than a romance; it’s a testament to the power of love, healing, and the courage it takes to confront one’s past. Jacinta Howard has crafted a story that lingers long after the final word, a beautiful exploration of second chances, both in love and in life.
August 7, 2025
If I could rate this based on solely on the insufferable FMC, it would be 2 stars. But I’ve read other books by this author and loved them. This one just wasn’t it for me.
I get that this is a story about healing from trauma, hurt, past love, second chances etc. This could have been such an amazing story capturing all of that without her being such an annoyance. For me, all of that is lost in my disdain for Simone.
The positive in this was I liked the way Jackson put himself and his feelings first in reference to her. He had all the right in the world not to trust his heart with her. This is one book that here I wished they didn’t get back together. He deserved better.
I get that this is a story about healing from trauma, hurt, past love, second chances etc. This could have been such an amazing story capturing all of that without her being such an annoyance. For me, all of that is lost in my disdain for Simone.
The positive in this was I liked the way Jackson put himself and his feelings first in reference to her. He had all the right in the world not to trust his heart with her. This is one book that here I wished they didn’t get back together. He deserved better.
July 17, 2025
I was drawn to this book by the narrator (Wesleigh Siobhan), and she did not disappoint. The performance and production are incredible—it added so much to my reading experience.
The other draw card was the FMC being 40! I’m close to this age myself (42 🫣), so I am always delighted to find a book with older leads. This is a second-chance romance between a divorced couple with a sixteen-year-old son—and honestly I am SO GLAD I didn’t know this going in, as it would have deterred me from picking it up (I am divorced myself, and have no interest in stories of reconciliation, in fact, I actively avoid them 😂). I would have missed out on a truly wonderful book had I known, so this was very fortuitous!
The writing was excellent, the story and characters compelling, and the deep, powerful EMOTION in the spicy scenes was next level. The mental health rep (check the content warnings for specifics) was well handled, and really I just loved every minute of this gorgeous book. Highly recommend!
*ALC from Dreamscape via NetGalley*
The other draw card was the FMC being 40! I’m close to this age myself (42 🫣), so I am always delighted to find a book with older leads. This is a second-chance romance between a divorced couple with a sixteen-year-old son—and honestly I am SO GLAD I didn’t know this going in, as it would have deterred me from picking it up (I am divorced myself, and have no interest in stories of reconciliation, in fact, I actively avoid them 😂). I would have missed out on a truly wonderful book had I known, so this was very fortuitous!
The writing was excellent, the story and characters compelling, and the deep, powerful EMOTION in the spicy scenes was next level. The mental health rep (check the content warnings for specifics) was well handled, and really I just loved every minute of this gorgeous book. Highly recommend!
*ALC from Dreamscape via NetGalley*
October 9, 2025
I really liked the journey that Simone and Jackson took back to each other. When the book opens it’s the eve of Simone’s 40th birthday. She’s restless and unsettled feeling like she’s missing something. While she’s running her own sports agency and raising her son, Caleb, her divorce from Jackson weighs on her.
For her 40th year, her best friend Logan convinces her to do something different every month to find herself. Also Simone is still very much in love with her ex-husband.
Jackson is also dealing with their marriage being over while he’s also still in love with Simone. And as much as he loves her, he’s hesitant about anything serious because of how broken he was by the divorce.
Therapy plays a huge part of their story. Simone going back to therapy. As well as Jackson and Simone going to marriage counseling. Both of these actions allow them to find a way back to each other and a HEA.
There is also a side story with Caleb and his friend Tiana that’s interesting too. It was definitely worth the read.
For her 40th year, her best friend Logan convinces her to do something different every month to find herself. Also Simone is still very much in love with her ex-husband.
Jackson is also dealing with their marriage being over while he’s also still in love with Simone. And as much as he loves her, he’s hesitant about anything serious because of how broken he was by the divorce.
Therapy plays a huge part of their story. Simone going back to therapy. As well as Jackson and Simone going to marriage counseling. Both of these actions allow them to find a way back to each other and a HEA.
There is also a side story with Caleb and his friend Tiana that’s interesting too. It was definitely worth the read.
July 15, 2025
"Love doesn't fix everything." - Jackson
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶🌶🌶
❤️ Second Chance Romance, Self-Love, Emotional Growth, Therapy, Mental Health, Contemporary Romance.
*Trigger Warning: Self-harm
This story was raw, authentic, relatable, and spicy. Simone Harris is the female lead, she's a boss of a sports agency, and this takes you through her journey of what causes her relationship issues with her ex, Jackson, along with obstacles at work. It reveals her trauma and how she is able to grow emotionally. I love how patient Jackson is with her and how they come together for their son. This hits the heart with the touches of heartbreak. I wish it did have a few chapters of Jackson's POV.
With the ALC, the audio was good but I couldn't understand it at a faster speed. I did have to listen to it at a slower speed than I normally listen to.
Thank you @Netgalley and @Dreamscape_Media for this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶🌶🌶
❤️ Second Chance Romance, Self-Love, Emotional Growth, Therapy, Mental Health, Contemporary Romance.
*Trigger Warning: Self-harm
This story was raw, authentic, relatable, and spicy. Simone Harris is the female lead, she's a boss of a sports agency, and this takes you through her journey of what causes her relationship issues with her ex, Jackson, along with obstacles at work. It reveals her trauma and how she is able to grow emotionally. I love how patient Jackson is with her and how they come together for their son. This hits the heart with the touches of heartbreak. I wish it did have a few chapters of Jackson's POV.
With the ALC, the audio was good but I couldn't understand it at a faster speed. I did have to listen to it at a slower speed than I normally listen to.
Thank you @Netgalley and @Dreamscape_Media for this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
July 17, 2025
When Forty Blooms. Jacinta came back and gave us some beautiful writing. Simone like most women turning a pivotal age assumed that by now turning forty would be the year we would have everything figured out. From work to home to love. This couldn’t be further from the truth in Simone’s life.
I loved how we got the raw emotions of understanding how it began in her life with her parents and their marriage and how she broke through with needing to find her way on her own. Jackson her ex husband in my opinion was her emotional attachment when she needed healing, but wasn’t realizing she was hurting him in the process. She took his heart through the pain that she couldn’t verbalize herself.
Read/Listen and watch how along the way Simone learns valuable lessons in life and love with the most important being you never too old to learn and grow. Our plants always need some watering.
I loved how we got the raw emotions of understanding how it began in her life with her parents and their marriage and how she broke through with needing to find her way on her own. Jackson her ex husband in my opinion was her emotional attachment when she needed healing, but wasn’t realizing she was hurting him in the process. She took his heart through the pain that she couldn’t verbalize herself.
Read/Listen and watch how along the way Simone learns valuable lessons in life and love with the most important being you never too old to learn and grow. Our plants always need some watering.
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