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Hallowed Harbingers #2
Inked in Bloom
Monroe
It’s a bit rude to expect me to embrace immortality while I’m still grieving my own death.
Part of me would love to continue wallowing, but training to bring spring is my best shot at returning home to the mortal world.
To my patients. To the people who need me.
Trouble is, I can’t get my magic to work, I’m the worst in my class, and—to top it all off—I apparently have a mate.
I want nothing more than to get back to my old life, but it’s clear Fate has other plans.
Briar
I’ve never cared much about mortals.
Until her.
After two months trapped in a tiny apartment, I should be grateful to be back with my fellow Blooms. But I can’t stop thinking about the vibrant woman who found and cared for me.
Eager to throw myself into teaching and forget my time earthside, I step into my classroom only to find her sitting there.
She doesn’t recognize me, but she's going to hate me once she learns the truth…
It’s my fault she’s dead.
Inked in Bloom is the spring standalone in the Hallowed Harbingers series. A rejected mates, bunny shifter romance between a newly turned immortal and her tall and tatted professor, it includes some dark themes surrounding grief and content best suited for those over the age of 18.
It’s a bit rude to expect me to embrace immortality while I’m still grieving my own death.
Part of me would love to continue wallowing, but training to bring spring is my best shot at returning home to the mortal world.
To my patients. To the people who need me.
Trouble is, I can’t get my magic to work, I’m the worst in my class, and—to top it all off—I apparently have a mate.
I want nothing more than to get back to my old life, but it’s clear Fate has other plans.
Briar
I’ve never cared much about mortals.
Until her.
After two months trapped in a tiny apartment, I should be grateful to be back with my fellow Blooms. But I can’t stop thinking about the vibrant woman who found and cared for me.
Eager to throw myself into teaching and forget my time earthside, I step into my classroom only to find her sitting there.
She doesn’t recognize me, but she's going to hate me once she learns the truth…
It’s my fault she’s dead.
Inked in Bloom is the spring standalone in the Hallowed Harbingers series. A rejected mates, bunny shifter romance between a newly turned immortal and her tall and tatted professor, it includes some dark themes surrounding grief and content best suited for those over the age of 18.
590 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2026
About the author
L.R. Friedman
11 books278 followersL.R. Friedman started writing in 2021 after spending a decade putting “write the book” on her five-year plan. Her first book published in August 2022.
The girl that grew up trying to find a hidden realm in her closet, she now spends her days curled up with a cup of coffee, playing matchmaker for her morally grey characters.
All of her stories include LGBTQ+ leads, mental health rep, and are set in worlds that are dark, sexy, and whimsical. Her immersive and character-driven stories are full of emotional healing and relatable characters, meant to both entertain and empower her readers.
She lives in Virginia with her husband and three children.
The girl that grew up trying to find a hidden realm in her closet, she now spends her days curled up with a cup of coffee, playing matchmaker for her morally grey characters.
All of her stories include LGBTQ+ leads, mental health rep, and are set in worlds that are dark, sexy, and whimsical. Her immersive and character-driven stories are full of emotional healing and relatable characters, meant to both entertain and empower her readers.
She lives in Virginia with her husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the opportunity to beta read this one, and it was incredible! The world is not ready for the amazing spring vibes, unique world, and an incredible book boyfriend! I'll update my review further once the book is out and I've read the final version. But definitely keep this one on your radar!
Update: I just finished reading an ARC of the final version and, unsurprisingly, I absolutely loved it! Lauren does an amazing job of creating a magical world full of spring vibes to disappear into, while also exploring deep human emotion. It was an escape, but also a way to process grief and the overall impact your life has, even after you're gone. The idea of planting seeds that have a lasting impact on the world, whether you see it or not, is so beautiful. The world building was exquisite and gave the perfect spring vibes. I wish Florezca was a real place! I'm excited for the summer book next, but will definitely keep thinking about this one for awhile!
Update: I just finished reading an ARC of the final version and, unsurprisingly, I absolutely loved it! Lauren does an amazing job of creating a magical world full of spring vibes to disappear into, while also exploring deep human emotion. It was an escape, but also a way to process grief and the overall impact your life has, even after you're gone. The idea of planting seeds that have a lasting impact on the world, whether you see it or not, is so beautiful. The world building was exquisite and gave the perfect spring vibes. I wish Florezca was a real place! I'm excited for the summer book next, but will definitely keep thinking about this one for awhile!
April 23, 2026
Inked in Bloom by L.R. Friedman is the first book that made me cry from the dedication page. It genuinely felt like it was written for me.
I’ve always found it hard to say no - especially to the people closest to me. And over time, that kindness started being taken for granted. It got to a point where I stopped taking care of my own needs because everyone else’s felt more important. So reading this book felt like looking at myself from the outside… and realizing just how much I needed that reminder.
Trigger warnings: this book deals with very heavy themes of grief and loss. The emotional weight is intense at times, and I cried every time Fate fetched a new soul.
The world Lauren created is absolutely beautiful - soft pastel colors, blooming flowers, cozy architecture, and fluffy bunnies everywhere. It’s the kind of afterlife where broken souls are given space to heal.
That’s where our FMC ends up after an unfortunate accident. And just when she tries to process everything and grieve her own demise… a certain tattooed professor (our MMC 👀) steps in - and that’s when all the bunny shenanigans begin 🤭
I loved watching their relationship unfold. Nothing felt rushed - the growth, the emotions, the connection - it all built so naturally. The side characters were completely lovable. We also get appearances from characters from book 1, which was such a surprise 😭
And OMG… the spice 🫣🔥 It’s on a whole different level!
(Small spoiler-ish thought 😅)
Calyxus… I need answers. What does it actually look like when it blooms?? Because in my head it’s giving Bulbasaur’s flower… with vines 🙃
The more I stayed in this world, the more I didn’t want to leave it. I want more of the Storms, more of the lore, and more time with certain characters whose stories feel like they’re only just beginning.
Which brings me to the most dangerous feeling of all after finishing this book… I desperately need book 3.
Another 5 ⭐️ read, and a permanent spot on my trophy shelf!
Huge thank you to Lauren for the ARC!
I’ve always found it hard to say no - especially to the people closest to me. And over time, that kindness started being taken for granted. It got to a point where I stopped taking care of my own needs because everyone else’s felt more important. So reading this book felt like looking at myself from the outside… and realizing just how much I needed that reminder.
Trigger warnings: this book deals with very heavy themes of grief and loss. The emotional weight is intense at times, and I cried every time Fate fetched a new soul.
The world Lauren created is absolutely beautiful - soft pastel colors, blooming flowers, cozy architecture, and fluffy bunnies everywhere. It’s the kind of afterlife where broken souls are given space to heal.
That’s where our FMC ends up after an unfortunate accident. And just when she tries to process everything and grieve her own demise… a certain tattooed professor (our MMC 👀) steps in - and that’s when all the bunny shenanigans begin 🤭
I loved watching their relationship unfold. Nothing felt rushed - the growth, the emotions, the connection - it all built so naturally. The side characters were completely lovable. We also get appearances from characters from book 1, which was such a surprise 😭
And OMG… the spice 🫣🔥 It’s on a whole different level!
(Small spoiler-ish thought 😅)
Calyxus… I need answers. What does it actually look like when it blooms?? Because in my head it’s giving Bulbasaur’s flower… with vines 🙃
The more I stayed in this world, the more I didn’t want to leave it. I want more of the Storms, more of the lore, and more time with certain characters whose stories feel like they’re only just beginning.
Which brings me to the most dangerous feeling of all after finishing this book… I desperately need book 3.
Another 5 ⭐️ read, and a permanent spot on my trophy shelf!
Huge thank you to Lauren for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2026
✨𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌✨
📖: Inked in Bloom (Hallowed Harbingers Book 2)
In the second standalone in the Hallowed Harbingers series, we follow a mortal Monroe and bunny shifter Briar as their fates entwine. He’s a professor and single dad who later realizes Monroe is his fated mate. She’s a therapist grappling with her afterlife who is hot for her professor, until she realizes he’s the bunny that played a role in her death.
Tropes:
💔Rejected mate
🐇Bunny shifters
🏫Hot for teacher
✍🏻Artist/therapist FMC
🧑🏫Single dad professor MMC
🧑🧑🧒🧒Found family
👀Public play
❤️🩹Mental health & grief
🌶️Open door
In this story, we journey into the world beyond the veil and delve into life amongst the harbingers. Briar is a down bad for his mate but Monroe must reconcile who she is and what she wants in her afterlife. And she knows she’s not ready for the mate fate destined for her. Will she find their sense of self and purpose?
Their attraction is instantaneous but their devotion and acceptance is nurtured over time to blossom into something unwavering and everlasting.
Emotionally layered and exquisitely spicy, Lauren crafts a tale that brilliantly balances heavy themes with angst, levity, and a tender slow burn romance.
Huge thanks to the author for the ARC opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review.
📖: Inked in Bloom (Hallowed Harbingers Book 2)
In the second standalone in the Hallowed Harbingers series, we follow a mortal Monroe and bunny shifter Briar as their fates entwine. He’s a professor and single dad who later realizes Monroe is his fated mate. She’s a therapist grappling with her afterlife who is hot for her professor, until she realizes he’s the bunny that played a role in her death.
Tropes:
💔Rejected mate
🐇Bunny shifters
🏫Hot for teacher
✍🏻Artist/therapist FMC
🧑🏫Single dad professor MMC
🧑🧑🧒🧒Found family
👀Public play
❤️🩹Mental health & grief
🌶️Open door
In this story, we journey into the world beyond the veil and delve into life amongst the harbingers. Briar is a down bad for his mate but Monroe must reconcile who she is and what she wants in her afterlife. And she knows she’s not ready for the mate fate destined for her. Will she find their sense of self and purpose?
Their attraction is instantaneous but their devotion and acceptance is nurtured over time to blossom into something unwavering and everlasting.
Emotionally layered and exquisitely spicy, Lauren crafts a tale that brilliantly balances heavy themes with angst, levity, and a tender slow burn romance.
Huge thanks to the author for the ARC opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review.
May 6, 2026
There are so many things I adore about Inked in Bloom. The lush setting of Florezca completely pulls you in—spring flowers and greenery in every direction. 💐 The characters are beautifully layered, each facing challenges that feel real and deeply relatable.
Briar and Monroe’s romance is hard-fought in the best way—the kind that brings you to your knees. And the spice? Impeccable. 😮💨
As always, Lauren shines in her portrayal of mental health, weaving in the idea that the seeds we plant can ripple outward long after we’re gone. Briar, Monroe, and their girls absolutely have my heart. 💞
Briar and Monroe’s romance is hard-fought in the best way—the kind that brings you to your knees. And the spice? Impeccable. 😮💨
As always, Lauren shines in her portrayal of mental health, weaving in the idea that the seeds we plant can ripple outward long after we’re gone. Briar, Monroe, and their girls absolutely have my heart. 💞
May 7, 2026
I absolutely fell in love with the harbingers of this world. In cannot believe that book 2 was the absolute rollercoaster that it was!
I knew that LR had it coming, and I did not prepare enough for the heartbreak, but she does heal you. You gotta earn it. You gotta cry a bit. You gotta gasp and plead with Fate, but damn is the happiness worth it. Fated Mates are my absolute favorite, even if it takes some a minute to realize what they have is exactly what they need. AND BUNNIES?! Inked In Bloom was everything I was hoping from book 2 and I cannot wait for more in this series.
I knew that LR had it coming, and I did not prepare enough for the heartbreak, but she does heal you. You gotta earn it. You gotta cry a bit. You gotta gasp and plead with Fate, but damn is the happiness worth it. Fated Mates are my absolute favorite, even if it takes some a minute to realize what they have is exactly what they need. AND BUNNIES?! Inked In Bloom was everything I was hoping from book 2 and I cannot wait for more in this series.
May 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🐝
I fell in love with the first book “Etched in Frost”. And when she announced that there will be a spring book I automatically knew that I wanted to read it. What I didn’t expect was to be in a state of yearning and being on the side of a male main character.
What happens when you go from being alive and well and doing good in the community to waking up and being told that you have ☠️ and now you are a harbinger of spring? But then come to realize that the person that is trying to teach you to be this new role is also the person that may or may not be responsible for how you got there.
In this tale of rejected mates and yearning, briar and Monroe will be tested through time of how they move forward in their relationship. Briar will listen and take the time that Monroe needs to be adjusted to the new life, but never stray away and feeling that invisible tug.
Oh, did I mention that they are also bunny shifters? Because why not have them 🌶️🌶️🌶️ like bunnies. I can’t wait to add this to my collection. This was such a fun and almost heartbreaking read but one that gives you the beautiful happily ever after.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🐝
I fell in love with the first book “Etched in Frost”. And when she announced that there will be a spring book I automatically knew that I wanted to read it. What I didn’t expect was to be in a state of yearning and being on the side of a male main character.
What happens when you go from being alive and well and doing good in the community to waking up and being told that you have ☠️ and now you are a harbinger of spring? But then come to realize that the person that is trying to teach you to be this new role is also the person that may or may not be responsible for how you got there.
In this tale of rejected mates and yearning, briar and Monroe will be tested through time of how they move forward in their relationship. Briar will listen and take the time that Monroe needs to be adjusted to the new life, but never stray away and feeling that invisible tug.
Oh, did I mention that they are also bunny shifters? Because why not have them 🌶️🌶️🌶️ like bunnies. I can’t wait to add this to my collection. This was such a fun and almost heartbreaking read but one that gives you the beautiful happily ever after.
May 14, 2026
Bunny shifters. That’s all. I’m obsessed.
May 12, 2026
I really loved this book. It was a story and book I didn't now I needed and how that I've read it.. wow! the emotional processing that goes on throughout the story is handled with care and love. You may see some familiar faces from Etched in Ice... maybe.. you'll have to read both stories for yourselves. This is a must read! Its the book I didn't know I needed to read until I read it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC-reader review
I was more than lucky to have received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
In rage, grief, sorrow, and joy - he loves me through every season.
Inked in Bloom is the sequel to Etched in Frost, now concentrating on Monroe and Briar as the main characters.
Whereas Jolies and Jaxs story was more a retelling of Jack Frost, this one is wholly original. We finally get behind the veil and are in the world of the Harbringers, or well the world of the Blooms, the harbringers of spring.
Their map is the cutest thing I've ever seen!! Its the form a flower, like how perfect!
Anyway Monroe starts as human, then dies and wakes up as a Bloom. She has to deal with her sudden death, with the loved ones left behind and the new immortal life she was gifted. In contrast to Jolie who was mainly a human and knew what she would become after death.
I truly loved this new perspective of the harbringer life and all the hardships new harbingers would have to go through. Most people die suddenly, so of course the trauma transfers into the after-life.
Monroe was a wonderful FMC to read about, her feelings and choices made so much sense and I felt for her. It was also very new to have an FMC who is 39 years old. Beside being an adult woman she is also a therapist and her analysing herself and noticing that some feelings were irrational and her still struggling was sometimes very funny. Her main conflict was coming to terms with the existence of the mating bond. Again an understandable struggle to have, she was barely dead a few weeks, still adjusting to becoming a harbringer and then you have a mate? Its a lot. But to grow with Monroe through it all was worth it. Also Briar is insanley hot!
Speaking of Briar Bloom our MMC, he is a "born" harbringer, means he died as a baby and then grew up as a Bloom. That back story alone deserves all the praise! He never lived a human life and mourns nothing from experience but because of not having experienced anything!! I am crying again just thinking about it. Its such a complex topic and L.R. handled it so well!
Thats also why he is already a single dad of four little girls... Its so cute but so sad, they were children when they died.... They have a happy life as immortal Blooms, they are happy but still its heartbreaking. Everything about this is so bitter-sweet.
Briar is also Yearning personified, that man YEARNS for Monroe!
The spice is a little bit less then Etched in Frost, though that didnt bother me. The spice we get is goooooood!
Im glad its a little less even, gives Monroe and Briar more time to focus on themselves.
The world-building is insane, and this was 99% only the spring realm. I cannot wait for all the other books diving into the other realms. I loved all these traditions and places and seeing really how harbingers do their job. It was fascinating!
This book dives even deeper into the topics of grief and trauma and falling love, than the first book. Or rather everything from a new perspecitve.
Its romantic, its spicey, its yearnful and has cute bunny shifters this time, totally recommend!
Again 5/5 stars.
I was more than lucky to have received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
In rage, grief, sorrow, and joy - he loves me through every season.
Inked in Bloom is the sequel to Etched in Frost, now concentrating on Monroe and Briar as the main characters.
Whereas Jolies and Jaxs story was more a retelling of Jack Frost, this one is wholly original. We finally get behind the veil and are in the world of the Harbringers, or well the world of the Blooms, the harbringers of spring.
Their map is the cutest thing I've ever seen!! Its the form a flower, like how perfect!
Anyway Monroe starts as human, then dies and wakes up as a Bloom. She has to deal with her sudden death, with the loved ones left behind and the new immortal life she was gifted. In contrast to Jolie who was mainly a human and knew what she would become after death.
I truly loved this new perspective of the harbringer life and all the hardships new harbingers would have to go through. Most people die suddenly, so of course the trauma transfers into the after-life.
Monroe was a wonderful FMC to read about, her feelings and choices made so much sense and I felt for her. It was also very new to have an FMC who is 39 years old. Beside being an adult woman she is also a therapist and her analysing herself and noticing that some feelings were irrational and her still struggling was sometimes very funny. Her main conflict was coming to terms with the existence of the mating bond. Again an understandable struggle to have, she was barely dead a few weeks, still adjusting to becoming a harbringer and then you have a mate? Its a lot. But to grow with Monroe through it all was worth it. Also Briar is insanley hot!
Speaking of Briar Bloom our MMC, he is a "born" harbringer, means he died as a baby and then grew up as a Bloom. That back story alone deserves all the praise! He never lived a human life and mourns nothing from experience but because of not having experienced anything!! I am crying again just thinking about it. Its such a complex topic and L.R. handled it so well!
Thats also why he is already a single dad of four little girls... Its so cute but so sad, they were children when they died.... They have a happy life as immortal Blooms, they are happy but still its heartbreaking. Everything about this is so bitter-sweet.
Briar is also Yearning personified, that man YEARNS for Monroe!
The spice is a little bit less then Etched in Frost, though that didnt bother me. The spice we get is goooooood!
Im glad its a little less even, gives Monroe and Briar more time to focus on themselves.
The world-building is insane, and this was 99% only the spring realm. I cannot wait for all the other books diving into the other realms. I loved all these traditions and places and seeing really how harbingers do their job. It was fascinating!
This book dives even deeper into the topics of grief and trauma and falling love, than the first book. Or rather everything from a new perspecitve.
Its romantic, its spicey, its yearnful and has cute bunny shifters this time, totally recommend!
Again 5/5 stars.
May 21, 2026
L.R. Friedman has done it again! Emotion, Artistry, Whimsy, and Magic. This second installation in the Hallowed Harbingers Interconnected Series was all these things and more.
First and foremost Lauren’s writing is always beautiful. The way she weaves a story is a blend of stunningly descriptive writing that is always emotionally layered. What I loved most about Inked in Bloom is, unlike book 1, we get to explore more of the world beyond the veil and dive deeper into the lives of the harbingers. However, similarly to book 1, we get a story that very expertly touches upon themes that explore very complex aspects of life and death, love and family, and finding meaning and purpose surrounding these things.
Along with these themes the tropes for me hit hard. I have always had a thing for a hot professor. It may just be I had a hard crush for teacher in one of my English classes back in school and that’s who I envision, but there’s something about a sexy academic that does it for me. The scenes in this book 😮💨….Lauren delivers!!! Additionally, found family is always a favorite! I have been blessed with an incredible family but I also have an amazing extended chosen family and I won’t admit how many times I teared up reading all the heart warming connections between Monroe finding her way into Briar’s family circle 🥹 I also adore the way her roommates embraced her immediately upon her arrival into Florezca and she instantly became one of their own.
In fact the tears were constantly flowing in this book. I typically don’t get very teary eyed in general but the waterworks were hard to suppress for this read and that’s saying a lot. You can tell Lauren imbued a lot of herself into these pages through the passion alone. This book was an emotional ride but I truly believe the ending will leave you with the desired result.
On the fun side I adored that there was another artistic aspect to this book! In book 1 Jolie was our dancer. In Inked in Bloom Monroe is our artist. Paint and crafting has such an expressive and importing aspect in this book but it’s also very cleverly integrated in some very sexy ways. It’s so present in everything and I absolutely love it! From the vivid descriptions of the setting and the harbingers appearances to the absolutely amazing outfits worn by Monroe! I also love the representation in the tattoos/flourish marks and their significance for the Blooms as well as all the gorgeous plant life and flora.
Overall this was a brilliantly crafted sequel by Lauren, masterfully blending various important themes and most importantly demonstrating the “loudness of love in the face of loss.”
First and foremost Lauren’s writing is always beautiful. The way she weaves a story is a blend of stunningly descriptive writing that is always emotionally layered. What I loved most about Inked in Bloom is, unlike book 1, we get to explore more of the world beyond the veil and dive deeper into the lives of the harbingers. However, similarly to book 1, we get a story that very expertly touches upon themes that explore very complex aspects of life and death, love and family, and finding meaning and purpose surrounding these things.
Along with these themes the tropes for me hit hard. I have always had a thing for a hot professor. It may just be I had a hard crush for teacher in one of my English classes back in school and that’s who I envision, but there’s something about a sexy academic that does it for me. The scenes in this book 😮💨….Lauren delivers!!! Additionally, found family is always a favorite! I have been blessed with an incredible family but I also have an amazing extended chosen family and I won’t admit how many times I teared up reading all the heart warming connections between Monroe finding her way into Briar’s family circle 🥹 I also adore the way her roommates embraced her immediately upon her arrival into Florezca and she instantly became one of their own.
In fact the tears were constantly flowing in this book. I typically don’t get very teary eyed in general but the waterworks were hard to suppress for this read and that’s saying a lot. You can tell Lauren imbued a lot of herself into these pages through the passion alone. This book was an emotional ride but I truly believe the ending will leave you with the desired result.
On the fun side I adored that there was another artistic aspect to this book! In book 1 Jolie was our dancer. In Inked in Bloom Monroe is our artist. Paint and crafting has such an expressive and importing aspect in this book but it’s also very cleverly integrated in some very sexy ways. It’s so present in everything and I absolutely love it! From the vivid descriptions of the setting and the harbingers appearances to the absolutely amazing outfits worn by Monroe! I also love the representation in the tattoos/flourish marks and their significance for the Blooms as well as all the gorgeous plant life and flora.
Overall this was a brilliantly crafted sequel by Lauren, masterfully blending various important themes and most importantly demonstrating the “loudness of love in the face of loss.”
May 14, 2026
Inked in Bloom is the second book in Friedman's Hallowed Harbingers series. This spicy, bunny shifter romance features Dr. Monroe Tanner and Briar Bloom.
Monroe is a successful therapist who lives and works in DC. Her best friend, Charlotte, passed away from colon cancer but Monroe maintains a close relationship with Charlotte's parents, Beth and Richard. She also runs a grief group in Charlotte's memory called Painting Hope. When Charlotte died, Monroe took in her rabbit, Jessica. Knowing that rabbits do well in pairs, she started fostering rabbits looking for one who would be a good match for Jessica. She is currently fostering an injured rabbit she has called Sir Thumps-A-Lot. When he gets away from her on a busy city street, she chases after him, and meets an unfortunate end.
Briar is a Bloom, a harbinger of Spring. During Spring months, Blooms head to the mortal realm to bring Spring to the world. Briar lives in a realm called Florezca where he was raised by his parents, Claire and Davis, alongside his siblings. Briar is a Radix, one of the community leaders, and a professor of Transformative Studies for new Blooms.
After Monroe dies, Fate collects her and brings her to Florezca where she becomes a new Bloom. She has much to learn before being permitted to return to the mortal realm but she cannot release her old life. She wants to check on her loved ones and is therefore keen to collect her flourish marks in order to be able to return. Monroe may be determined, but she struggles to get her magic to work. On top of that, she learns that she has a mate, a tether she has no interest in and therefore rejects. Seems the afterlife is not so easy.
This wonderful tale will give you a very different appreciation for rabbits. I dare say that I loved it even more than the first Hallowed Harbinger story. Friedman did a brilliant job with her world building. I could envision the characters and the realm in vivid detail. The characters, even with their bunny tails, were relatable. I loved the interactions between the main characters as well as the secondary ones.
The story quickly pulled me in and held me captivated throughout. Themes of death and purpose were explored from a different perspective. I was sad when it ended as I wanted more of this magical realm. I am also intrigued by the underlying tale that is being woven into the background and keen to see where Friedman takes it. She is a fabulous author and I don't think I'll ever be disappointed by one of her books. She just gets better and better. I highly encourage you to read her work... all of it!
Monroe is a successful therapist who lives and works in DC. Her best friend, Charlotte, passed away from colon cancer but Monroe maintains a close relationship with Charlotte's parents, Beth and Richard. She also runs a grief group in Charlotte's memory called Painting Hope. When Charlotte died, Monroe took in her rabbit, Jessica. Knowing that rabbits do well in pairs, she started fostering rabbits looking for one who would be a good match for Jessica. She is currently fostering an injured rabbit she has called Sir Thumps-A-Lot. When he gets away from her on a busy city street, she chases after him, and meets an unfortunate end.
Briar is a Bloom, a harbinger of Spring. During Spring months, Blooms head to the mortal realm to bring Spring to the world. Briar lives in a realm called Florezca where he was raised by his parents, Claire and Davis, alongside his siblings. Briar is a Radix, one of the community leaders, and a professor of Transformative Studies for new Blooms.
After Monroe dies, Fate collects her and brings her to Florezca where she becomes a new Bloom. She has much to learn before being permitted to return to the mortal realm but she cannot release her old life. She wants to check on her loved ones and is therefore keen to collect her flourish marks in order to be able to return. Monroe may be determined, but she struggles to get her magic to work. On top of that, she learns that she has a mate, a tether she has no interest in and therefore rejects. Seems the afterlife is not so easy.
This wonderful tale will give you a very different appreciation for rabbits. I dare say that I loved it even more than the first Hallowed Harbinger story. Friedman did a brilliant job with her world building. I could envision the characters and the realm in vivid detail. The characters, even with their bunny tails, were relatable. I loved the interactions between the main characters as well as the secondary ones.
The story quickly pulled me in and held me captivated throughout. Themes of death and purpose were explored from a different perspective. I was sad when it ended as I wanted more of this magical realm. I am also intrigued by the underlying tale that is being woven into the background and keen to see where Friedman takes it. She is a fabulous author and I don't think I'll ever be disappointed by one of her books. She just gets better and better. I highly encourage you to read her work... all of it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Monroe led a fulfilling life as a grief counselor until it was cut short due to an accident. The last thing she remembers before waking up as an immortal is chasing her rescued bunny across the street. Now, Monroe learns she will be a harbinger of spring, bringing flowers and warmer temperatures to the mortal world. But Monroe wants to get back to her mortal life, and is dismayed when she discovers a mate mark across her chest. Briar, on the other hand, grew up as a harbinger and is happy to return to his duties as a professor in the immortal spring world, where he teaches new arrivals how to use their magic. But seeing Monroe in his classroom stops him short, because that rescued bunny was his earthside form. Monroe has no idea about his role in her death, or the twin mate marks that now grace Briar's chest. Will Monroe and Briar spend immortality fighting Fate, or will they accept the future they've been offered?
I've been waiting for this book since I read Etched in Frost last year, so I had super high expectations for this release. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint me! Fated mates is my favorite trope, and this was my first experience with rejected mates. It was so well done, with all of the yearning and denial that made me swoon. Seeing more of the harbinger world was fascinating, and I am so excited about the universe L.R. Friedman has created. It's so unique and magical that I want to climb right in. This book also has some really important messages about grief and the impact we have on the world, so prepare your tissues. But among the strong emotions is a truly beautiful and truly spicy romance that will have you falling into this world from the very first page. This book is perfect for spring, so read it during that season or any time you need those flowery, fresh vibes. While this can be read as a standalone, I encourage you to read Etched in Frost first, for the full effect and to catch all the Easter eggs in this book. I can't wait to see what Fate brings the harbingers next!
Follow me @smorebooksplease on Instagram for more bookish fun!
Monroe led a fulfilling life as a grief counselor until it was cut short due to an accident. The last thing she remembers before waking up as an immortal is chasing her rescued bunny across the street. Now, Monroe learns she will be a harbinger of spring, bringing flowers and warmer temperatures to the mortal world. But Monroe wants to get back to her mortal life, and is dismayed when she discovers a mate mark across her chest. Briar, on the other hand, grew up as a harbinger and is happy to return to his duties as a professor in the immortal spring world, where he teaches new arrivals how to use their magic. But seeing Monroe in his classroom stops him short, because that rescued bunny was his earthside form. Monroe has no idea about his role in her death, or the twin mate marks that now grace Briar's chest. Will Monroe and Briar spend immortality fighting Fate, or will they accept the future they've been offered?
I've been waiting for this book since I read Etched in Frost last year, so I had super high expectations for this release. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint me! Fated mates is my favorite trope, and this was my first experience with rejected mates. It was so well done, with all of the yearning and denial that made me swoon. Seeing more of the harbinger world was fascinating, and I am so excited about the universe L.R. Friedman has created. It's so unique and magical that I want to climb right in. This book also has some really important messages about grief and the impact we have on the world, so prepare your tissues. But among the strong emotions is a truly beautiful and truly spicy romance that will have you falling into this world from the very first page. This book is perfect for spring, so read it during that season or any time you need those flowery, fresh vibes. While this can be read as a standalone, I encourage you to read Etched in Frost first, for the full effect and to catch all the Easter eggs in this book. I can't wait to see what Fate brings the harbingers next!
Follow me @smorebooksplease on Instagram for more bookish fun!
May 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I cannot tell you how excited I have been for book 2 in the Hallowed Harbingers series. LR Friedman has been a long time favorite author of mine and book 1 in this series was fantastic. Inked in Bloom provides another spectacular romance where believing in magic is required. From winter to spring, this book focuses on the magical beings who usher in spring each year. LR also brings the world of the Harbingers more into focus, pulling back the veil to allow us to see more of what happens behind the scenes.
Monroe is dealing with her own demise and waking up no longer herself, but rather a Bloom. Not given any time to deal with her own loss of life, she is now also supposed to be learning how to do her new job. Oh and she is told she has a mate, which she has no interest in. A therapist in her old life, she has a unique set of skills to help deal with these major changes, but is still only human. Monroe is a wonderful character who embodies the feelings of mourning one life while learning all about another.
Briar is a born harbinger and grew up a Bloom. He doesn’t understand when new Blooms mourn their old lives, but only because he has never lost anything like that. It is actually really sad to see how little he was able to experience before becoming what he is. He has also taken in 4 young Harbingers who lost their lives early. When he meets his Monroe, the mate bond snaps for him quickly, even though she doesn’t reciprocate as quickly. What’s more, is he is her teacher, tasked with training her in the way of Blooms, so they are constantly around each other.
LR writes a beautiful, meaningful story full of heart, passion, and romance. Her characters are complex and layered, fully encompassing the magic their world provides, while still highlighting the things we take for granted as humans. I love LR’s writing and everything she provides in a story. I love getting to know both Monroe, Briar, and more side characters who I truly do hope to see in future books. Round of applause for LR and her amazing addition to this series!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🌷Shifter Romance
🐇Therapist FMC
🌷Tattooed MMC
🐇Rejected Mate
🌷Grief and Mental Health Rep
🐇Professor x Student
I cannot tell you how excited I have been for book 2 in the Hallowed Harbingers series. LR Friedman has been a long time favorite author of mine and book 1 in this series was fantastic. Inked in Bloom provides another spectacular romance where believing in magic is required. From winter to spring, this book focuses on the magical beings who usher in spring each year. LR also brings the world of the Harbingers more into focus, pulling back the veil to allow us to see more of what happens behind the scenes.
Monroe is dealing with her own demise and waking up no longer herself, but rather a Bloom. Not given any time to deal with her own loss of life, she is now also supposed to be learning how to do her new job. Oh and she is told she has a mate, which she has no interest in. A therapist in her old life, she has a unique set of skills to help deal with these major changes, but is still only human. Monroe is a wonderful character who embodies the feelings of mourning one life while learning all about another.
Briar is a born harbinger and grew up a Bloom. He doesn’t understand when new Blooms mourn their old lives, but only because he has never lost anything like that. It is actually really sad to see how little he was able to experience before becoming what he is. He has also taken in 4 young Harbingers who lost their lives early. When he meets his Monroe, the mate bond snaps for him quickly, even though she doesn’t reciprocate as quickly. What’s more, is he is her teacher, tasked with training her in the way of Blooms, so they are constantly around each other.
LR writes a beautiful, meaningful story full of heart, passion, and romance. Her characters are complex and layered, fully encompassing the magic their world provides, while still highlighting the things we take for granted as humans. I love LR’s writing and everything she provides in a story. I love getting to know both Monroe, Briar, and more side characters who I truly do hope to see in future books. Round of applause for LR and her amazing addition to this series!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🌷Shifter Romance
🐇Therapist FMC
🌷Tattooed MMC
🐇Rejected Mate
🌷Grief and Mental Health Rep
🐇Professor x Student
Review of advance copy received from Author
L.R. Friedman stole part of my heart with Etched in Frost, but I think she stole a part of my soul with Inked in Bloom. To say that I loved this book would be a massive understatement.
"I've fallen for every iteration of you, I'd claim them all and everyone to come."
Inked in Bloom is the second book in the Hollowed Harbingers series and will take you on an emotional roller coaster. Monroe's busy life is tragically ended where she is then thrust into immorality. As she mourns her own life, she experiences all stages of grief: denial, depression, anger, bargaining, and acceptance. While Monroe is going through the stages of grief, you will feel every single one of her emotions and her struggles as she learns accept and live her new life as a harbinger. "Sir Thumps-A-Lot?" Briar is riddled with guilt once her meets Monroe in the immortal realm. He has to learn how to forgive himself and accept that the mate he has been waiting for all his life might not be the one he ends up with. He is so patient with Monroe and falls in love with her so deeply that he is willing to sacrifice everything for her. "If you think I'd leave you here in pain, then I hope you're ready to watch me wither right along side of you." His willingness to sacrifice for her is limitless. "You're my mate, Monroe. I know you're still figuring out what it means to you, but to me, it means building a life, a family with you."
Inked in Bloom is beautifully written and has the perfect balance of plot and spice. It was easily a 5 star read for me! I didn't expect for this story to cause me to laugh and cry so much. Briar being originally addressed as "Sir Thumps-A-Lot" brought laughter in a part of the story where grief is being experienced. It was so easy to fall in love with the characters and feel all their emotions. L.R. Friedman really out did herself when wrote this story! I can tell that she put a lot of thought and time into the story and the characters. I can't wait to see what she does next!!!
"Bond or no bond, I'll always choose you."
Tropes/ What to expect:
-Slow burn
-Fated Mate
-Rejected Mates
-Single tatted dad
-Bunny Shifters
-Mental Health Rep
-Spicy arts and crafts
"I've fallen for every iteration of you, I'd claim them all and everyone to come."
Inked in Bloom is the second book in the Hollowed Harbingers series and will take you on an emotional roller coaster. Monroe's busy life is tragically ended where she is then thrust into immorality. As she mourns her own life, she experiences all stages of grief: denial, depression, anger, bargaining, and acceptance. While Monroe is going through the stages of grief, you will feel every single one of her emotions and her struggles as she learns accept and live her new life as a harbinger. "Sir Thumps-A-Lot?" Briar is riddled with guilt once her meets Monroe in the immortal realm. He has to learn how to forgive himself and accept that the mate he has been waiting for all his life might not be the one he ends up with. He is so patient with Monroe and falls in love with her so deeply that he is willing to sacrifice everything for her. "If you think I'd leave you here in pain, then I hope you're ready to watch me wither right along side of you." His willingness to sacrifice for her is limitless. "You're my mate, Monroe. I know you're still figuring out what it means to you, but to me, it means building a life, a family with you."
Inked in Bloom is beautifully written and has the perfect balance of plot and spice. It was easily a 5 star read for me! I didn't expect for this story to cause me to laugh and cry so much. Briar being originally addressed as "Sir Thumps-A-Lot" brought laughter in a part of the story where grief is being experienced. It was so easy to fall in love with the characters and feel all their emotions. L.R. Friedman really out did herself when wrote this story! I can tell that she put a lot of thought and time into the story and the characters. I can't wait to see what she does next!!!
"Bond or no bond, I'll always choose you."
Tropes/ What to expect:
-Slow burn
-Fated Mate
-Rejected Mates
-Single tatted dad
-Bunny Shifters
-Mental Health Rep
-Spicy arts and crafts
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
This book was absolutely amazing and soooo worth the wait!!! Briar and Monroe’s characters were so good! This story highlights the struggles of overcoming the unexpected and working through the grieving process and the complex emotions that people feel. It shows that even the most unfortunate accidents can lead to an unexpected HEA!!
Briar is a harbinger for spring, so in his earthly form he’s a bunny, and that’s how he is found and rescued by Monroe! He gets caught in a fence and is injured, so Monroe takes him home to nurture him back to health, but when he has an opportunity to escape back to Florezca, he dashes away and disappears! However not long after he arrives, he finds that the woman who cared for him is also there and now in his class to learn how to be a Bloom!!!
Monroe is a a therapist with her own practice and the creator of Painting Hope, a program she created after she lost her best friend, to help others with their grief of losing loved ones. She tends to take care of and put everyone else’s grief and needs ahead of her own, so when she goes home all she has is her best friend’s rabbit, Jessica, and her new rescue bunny, “Sir Thumps A lot”. After she’s nursed him back to health and considering what to do with him, he bolts off and she chases after him only to the victim of a tragic accident. When she awakes, her life is not the same, she’s dead and now become a Harbinger of Spring!! She’s determined to get back to the mortal world though, unable to let go of what she left behind!! She struggles with accepting her fate and moving on! And when the most unexpected moment happens right after she dies, she is determined to fight the plan that Fate has in store for her!!!
Monroe is a strong woman who shows great emotional growth throughout this book!! She ends up learning some very hard lessons and finds that there is so much more to her than simply existing. She finds love and happiness, new friends and a new purpose!!
This book was absolutely amazing and soooo worth the wait!!! Briar and Monroe’s characters were so good! This story highlights the struggles of overcoming the unexpected and working through the grieving process and the complex emotions that people feel. It shows that even the most unfortunate accidents can lead to an unexpected HEA!!
Briar is a harbinger for spring, so in his earthly form he’s a bunny, and that’s how he is found and rescued by Monroe! He gets caught in a fence and is injured, so Monroe takes him home to nurture him back to health, but when he has an opportunity to escape back to Florezca, he dashes away and disappears! However not long after he arrives, he finds that the woman who cared for him is also there and now in his class to learn how to be a Bloom!!!
Monroe is a a therapist with her own practice and the creator of Painting Hope, a program she created after she lost her best friend, to help others with their grief of losing loved ones. She tends to take care of and put everyone else’s grief and needs ahead of her own, so when she goes home all she has is her best friend’s rabbit, Jessica, and her new rescue bunny, “Sir Thumps A lot”. After she’s nursed him back to health and considering what to do with him, he bolts off and she chases after him only to the victim of a tragic accident. When she awakes, her life is not the same, she’s dead and now become a Harbinger of Spring!! She’s determined to get back to the mortal world though, unable to let go of what she left behind!! She struggles with accepting her fate and moving on! And when the most unexpected moment happens right after she dies, she is determined to fight the plan that Fate has in store for her!!!
Monroe is a strong woman who shows great emotional growth throughout this book!! She ends up learning some very hard lessons and finds that there is so much more to her than simply existing. She finds love and happiness, new friends and a new purpose!!
May 5, 2026
Thank you deeply to this amazing author for allowing me to read a very very early version of this book !!!
“Fate's kiss follows tragedy.”
“Unfortunately, loss doesn't happen once. Grief comes in multitudes, and even years later, the hurt can resurface.”
“I’ve fallen for every iteration of you. I’d claim them all and every one to come”
When beauty, Fate and grief crash, only hope can make a flower bloom. That’s the story of Monroe and Briar. That’s what it was all about. And that’s why this book so so otherworldly and marvellous. Intense. Enchanting. Deep. Spicy. Loving. Frustrating. Joyful. Hopeful. Funny in its banter. All of that and more. This author knows the power a good chemistry between the characters can have. And when Fate intervenes… a tragedy can be rewritten. Just as from the loss of life, another one can be born. I loved this book. And it wasn’t only because of the insane, intense passion and connection between the MCs. It was because of everything that came with their overcoming their fears and letting go. It was because of the side characters’ arc and how profoundly interesting they were. It was because up until the very end, you weren’t really sure that the frustration would have found an escape route. You were only there, hoping it would have. And when it did … well, let’s just say that when a flower blooms … nothing is more beautiful. So, hang in there because, not only will this book make you obsessed. But it will leave you desperately craving more.
"Beauty blooms from tragedy."
"Whether an immortal or not, everyone leaves a mark. And where there
is love, one is truly never forgotten."
“But maybe soulmates weren't meant to be that instant storybook connection. Maybe having a soulmate was more like being a kid gifted a sweater three sizes too big, so huge and clumsy that it's hard to imagine it'll ever fit. But one day you stare at yourself in the mirror, tugging your
arms through the sleeves, and you realize it can't too big. Not really. You just had some more growing to do.”
“Fate's kiss follows tragedy.”
“Unfortunately, loss doesn't happen once. Grief comes in multitudes, and even years later, the hurt can resurface.”
“I’ve fallen for every iteration of you. I’d claim them all and every one to come”
When beauty, Fate and grief crash, only hope can make a flower bloom. That’s the story of Monroe and Briar. That’s what it was all about. And that’s why this book so so otherworldly and marvellous. Intense. Enchanting. Deep. Spicy. Loving. Frustrating. Joyful. Hopeful. Funny in its banter. All of that and more. This author knows the power a good chemistry between the characters can have. And when Fate intervenes… a tragedy can be rewritten. Just as from the loss of life, another one can be born. I loved this book. And it wasn’t only because of the insane, intense passion and connection between the MCs. It was because of everything that came with their overcoming their fears and letting go. It was because of the side characters’ arc and how profoundly interesting they were. It was because up until the very end, you weren’t really sure that the frustration would have found an escape route. You were only there, hoping it would have. And when it did … well, let’s just say that when a flower blooms … nothing is more beautiful. So, hang in there because, not only will this book make you obsessed. But it will leave you desperately craving more.
"Beauty blooms from tragedy."
"Whether an immortal or not, everyone leaves a mark. And where there
is love, one is truly never forgotten."
“But maybe soulmates weren't meant to be that instant storybook connection. Maybe having a soulmate was more like being a kid gifted a sweater three sizes too big, so huge and clumsy that it's hard to imagine it'll ever fit. But one day you stare at yourself in the mirror, tugging your
arms through the sleeves, and you realize it can't too big. Not really. You just had some more growing to do.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
This second installment absolutely wrecked me—in the best way.
Monroe’s voice is so sharp and raw from the very beginning. Her resistance to everything—immortality, magic, even the idea of moving forward—feels completely justified. She seriously didn't like to be told what to do and to ask her to embrace immortality while grieving her own death? It sets the tone perfectly. You feel her struggle, her anger, and her desperate need to get back to the life and people she lost. Watching her try (and fail) to control her magic while still pushing forward made her incredibly human, even in a world that’s anything but.
And then there’s Briar… honestly, his storyline hit even harder. The contrast between his past pain and the quiet, steady way he supports Monroe—even when she pushes him away—is just chef’s kiss. The guilt he carries adds so much emotional weight, and knowing the truth before Monroe does creates this constant tension that kept me hooked.
The romance is messy, emotional, and deeply earned. Monroe isn’t easy to love, and Briar doesn’t try to fix her—he just stands beside her, and that made everything feel more real. Their dynamic hurt in all the right ways.
The worldbuilding continues to be such a strong point. Getting a deeper look into the Blooms and the seasonal structure was fascinating, and I loved seeing more of the side characters. It really makes the world feel alive and interconnected. Also… that little twist of the Storms and Time? I need those stories immediately.
And yes, that cameo?? SUCH a nice surprise.
Even though this isn’t a direct sequel, it builds beautifully on the first book while standing completely on its own. If anything, it hits even harder emotionally.
Now I’m just sitting here hoping we get the rest of the seasons—because I am not ready to leave this world. And honestly… now I need a matching special edition copy from the Book Cove too.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. This review was left voluntarily.
Monroe’s voice is so sharp and raw from the very beginning. Her resistance to everything—immortality, magic, even the idea of moving forward—feels completely justified. She seriously didn't like to be told what to do and to ask her to embrace immortality while grieving her own death? It sets the tone perfectly. You feel her struggle, her anger, and her desperate need to get back to the life and people she lost. Watching her try (and fail) to control her magic while still pushing forward made her incredibly human, even in a world that’s anything but.
And then there’s Briar… honestly, his storyline hit even harder. The contrast between his past pain and the quiet, steady way he supports Monroe—even when she pushes him away—is just chef’s kiss. The guilt he carries adds so much emotional weight, and knowing the truth before Monroe does creates this constant tension that kept me hooked.
The romance is messy, emotional, and deeply earned. Monroe isn’t easy to love, and Briar doesn’t try to fix her—he just stands beside her, and that made everything feel more real. Their dynamic hurt in all the right ways.
The worldbuilding continues to be such a strong point. Getting a deeper look into the Blooms and the seasonal structure was fascinating, and I loved seeing more of the side characters. It really makes the world feel alive and interconnected. Also… that little twist of the Storms and Time? I need those stories immediately.
And yes, that cameo?? SUCH a nice surprise.
Even though this isn’t a direct sequel, it builds beautifully on the first book while standing completely on its own. If anything, it hits even harder emotionally.
Now I’m just sitting here hoping we get the rest of the seasons—because I am not ready to leave this world. And honestly… now I need a matching special edition copy from the Book Cove too.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. This review was left voluntarily.
May 8, 2026
4.5 Stars
Inked in Bloom, book two in the Hallowed Harbingers series, is written by L.R. Friedman. Even though the book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. The book features a rejected mate, bunny shifters, and a tatted professor. This romance explores the intersection of life and loss.
The book centers on Monroe, a dedicated art therapist who finds herself in a precarious afterlife after a tragic accident. As a new “Bloom,” a harbinger responsible for bringing in spring, she must navigate this new realm while grieving the life she left and the people she left behind. The story is a delicate balance of emotional healing and discovery of her magical destiny. Oh, and finding love in unexpected places!
While attending harbinger classes, she discovers that her handsome professor, Briar, is the foster rabbit she was caring for in the mortal realm. Their relationship is tense, but they are bound by an unbreakable mark. A mark that is kept a secret while Monroe attempts to solve its meaning and the intense and confusing emotions it evokes.
Monroe, with the help of others, learns that her transition into this world is not the end of her capacity to help others, but rather a change in venue! Through Inked in Bloom, we are reminded that we define our own lives when the rules are written by someone else. We cannot always control the cards we are dealt by fate, but we do have total control over how we choose to play them.
I love this series so much. I adored Etched in Frost, and I was blown away by this one. I can’t wait to see what else Friedman has in store for us readers. Can we also pause a moment to talk about how stunning this book cover is?! Beautiful!
Thanks to L.R. Friedman for gifting me an eARC of Inked in Bloom. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Inked in Bloom, book two in the Hallowed Harbingers series, is written by L.R. Friedman. Even though the book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. The book features a rejected mate, bunny shifters, and a tatted professor. This romance explores the intersection of life and loss.
The book centers on Monroe, a dedicated art therapist who finds herself in a precarious afterlife after a tragic accident. As a new “Bloom,” a harbinger responsible for bringing in spring, she must navigate this new realm while grieving the life she left and the people she left behind. The story is a delicate balance of emotional healing and discovery of her magical destiny. Oh, and finding love in unexpected places!
While attending harbinger classes, she discovers that her handsome professor, Briar, is the foster rabbit she was caring for in the mortal realm. Their relationship is tense, but they are bound by an unbreakable mark. A mark that is kept a secret while Monroe attempts to solve its meaning and the intense and confusing emotions it evokes.
Monroe, with the help of others, learns that her transition into this world is not the end of her capacity to help others, but rather a change in venue! Through Inked in Bloom, we are reminded that we define our own lives when the rules are written by someone else. We cannot always control the cards we are dealt by fate, but we do have total control over how we choose to play them.
I love this series so much. I adored Etched in Frost, and I was blown away by this one. I can’t wait to see what else Friedman has in store for us readers. Can we also pause a moment to talk about how stunning this book cover is?! Beautiful!
Thanks to L.R. Friedman for gifting me an eARC of Inked in Bloom. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 20, 2026
Breathtakingly beautiful
The words to review this book don’t come quickly, my hesitation being that I feel I lack the vernacular to do it justice.
Monroe is gorgeous, from her introspective personality to the dedication she shows in learning to love the most fragile parts of herself. She maintains a relationship with herself that puts value into the meaning of loving one’s self enough to understand how best to love others.
Briar is patiently the perfect character to love Monroe for who she is and who she wants to become. He demonstrates a humanity that is far from how he got his start, yet he only shows understanding and compassion for the world around him, whether in Florezca or saving lost blooms from the other side of the veil.
While spicy towards the end, the book showcases monroe and briar’s dedication to eachother as endearing and inspiring rather than downright carnal. It is indeed, carnal, but in the most striking way of describing a once in lifetime connection and giving your best to your partner happy and content.
Overall, a wonderfully written and beautifully engaging book that Lauren has captured in the most whimsical way, exploring the beauty and pain of one’s mortality.
I am so honored to have been able to Arc read this, but also preorder the final book, draw one of my favorite pieces I’ve ever done and illustrate a map for this world.
Absolutely captivating.
The words to review this book don’t come quickly, my hesitation being that I feel I lack the vernacular to do it justice.
Monroe is gorgeous, from her introspective personality to the dedication she shows in learning to love the most fragile parts of herself. She maintains a relationship with herself that puts value into the meaning of loving one’s self enough to understand how best to love others.
Briar is patiently the perfect character to love Monroe for who she is and who she wants to become. He demonstrates a humanity that is far from how he got his start, yet he only shows understanding and compassion for the world around him, whether in Florezca or saving lost blooms from the other side of the veil.
While spicy towards the end, the book showcases monroe and briar’s dedication to eachother as endearing and inspiring rather than downright carnal. It is indeed, carnal, but in the most striking way of describing a once in lifetime connection and giving your best to your partner happy and content.
Overall, a wonderfully written and beautifully engaging book that Lauren has captured in the most whimsical way, exploring the beauty and pain of one’s mortality.
I am so honored to have been able to Arc read this, but also preorder the final book, draw one of my favorite pieces I’ve ever done and illustrate a map for this world.
Absolutely captivating.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25 Stars
4 Spicy
Inked in Bloom is a deliciously cozy paranormal romance. Our FMC is a therapist who spent her entire life caring for others, putting their emotional and physical needs before her. She is in a broken and unhealthy relationship, estranged from parents in some ways and still mourning the death of her best friend.
Everything changes when she runs out in traffic to save her rescue bunny rabbit, gets hit by a bus and dies. Now she is Spring Harbinger and must come to gripes with her new life... and the man she blames all her misfortune on.
For those of us who grew up watching the Tinkerbelle movies, Inked In Bloom is my 18+ version where sex and foreplay for public exhibition is expected and not taboo in a fantastical fairytale city full of bunny shifters. I actually really enjoyed watching Monroe ease into her new life after so many years of being the strict therapist and not truly living while she was alive. Monroe is also a 39-40 year old woman so I love seeing an older FMC too.
The last 20% of the book was HOT, spicy spicy spicy HOT and it was the worth the wait. I would say this is a medium burn but when the spice kicks in it becomes a wild fire.
Inked In Bloom is book 2, but you could skip over Book 1 and read it as a standalone with little issues.
4 Spicy
Inked in Bloom is a deliciously cozy paranormal romance. Our FMC is a therapist who spent her entire life caring for others, putting their emotional and physical needs before her. She is in a broken and unhealthy relationship, estranged from parents in some ways and still mourning the death of her best friend.
Everything changes when she runs out in traffic to save her rescue bunny rabbit, gets hit by a bus and dies. Now she is Spring Harbinger and must come to gripes with her new life... and the man she blames all her misfortune on.
For those of us who grew up watching the Tinkerbelle movies, Inked In Bloom is my 18+ version where sex and foreplay for public exhibition is expected and not taboo in a fantastical fairytale city full of bunny shifters. I actually really enjoyed watching Monroe ease into her new life after so many years of being the strict therapist and not truly living while she was alive. Monroe is also a 39-40 year old woman so I love seeing an older FMC too.
The last 20% of the book was HOT, spicy spicy spicy HOT and it was the worth the wait. I would say this is a medium burn but when the spice kicks in it becomes a wild fire.
Inked In Bloom is book 2, but you could skip over Book 1 and read it as a standalone with little issues.
May 5, 2026
4,5 stars
Great rejected mate bunny shifter romance between a single dad professor and a therapist. Second book in the Hallowed Harbingers series. Can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Etched in Frost first to give some background to the story, but also because Etched in Frost is an amazing book.
I really enjoyed this book! The world of the book was bright and whimsical, but the storyline and what the characters went through dealt with some heavy topics like loss and grief, and in my opinion those were well written.
The characters were relatable, especially Monroe trying to come to terms with what happened to her. The relationship between Monroe & Briar had an interesting beginning and I really enjoyed their relationship development. And I loved how Briar was always there for Monroe, whatever happened.
I can’t wait to read more!
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
“All I want is to sleep, wake up from this fever dream, and be home.”
“Great. I’m dead and malfunctioning,”
“Guess they don’t call it fucking like rabbits for nothing.”
“I’ve never needed to count on anyone but myself. Why start now?”
“Family isn’t something earned by blood. It’s earned by the heart.”
“What’s a few minutes when I’d wait an eternity for you?”
Great rejected mate bunny shifter romance between a single dad professor and a therapist. Second book in the Hallowed Harbingers series. Can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Etched in Frost first to give some background to the story, but also because Etched in Frost is an amazing book.
I really enjoyed this book! The world of the book was bright and whimsical, but the storyline and what the characters went through dealt with some heavy topics like loss and grief, and in my opinion those were well written.
The characters were relatable, especially Monroe trying to come to terms with what happened to her. The relationship between Monroe & Briar had an interesting beginning and I really enjoyed their relationship development. And I loved how Briar was always there for Monroe, whatever happened.
I can’t wait to read more!
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
“All I want is to sleep, wake up from this fever dream, and be home.”
“Great. I’m dead and malfunctioning,”
“Guess they don’t call it fucking like rabbits for nothing.”
“I’ve never needed to count on anyone but myself. Why start now?”
“Family isn’t something earned by blood. It’s earned by the heart.”
“What’s a few minutes when I’d wait an eternity for you?”
May 5, 2026
🅸🅽🅺🅴🅳 🅸🅽 🅱🅻🅾🅾🅼 🌷🩷
Book 2 In the Hallowed Harbinger series
Each book in the series is an interconnected standalone, bringing in a new season and a new couple.
This book is a spicy Spring read!
By LR Friedman -- @lrfriedmanauthor
Out today! 🎉🥂 Congratulations!
I have been waiting for this book since reading Etched in Frost last year and couldn't stop recommending it to everyone. And it didn't disappoint.
🐇 Sir Thumps A Lot ! 🐰🩷
Lauren has created the most beautiful universe called Florezca where souls go to heal, and bunnies bring Spring to the mortal world. It's full of lush flowers and pastel colors - it's whimsical, magical and full of Spring vibes.🌷
Lauren's strong suit is how she creates her characters who feel so real you want to hang out with them. You become attached and can't wait to see them again.
Monroe is newly immortal and Briar, her fated mate, is the one responsible. Their relationship is an emotional rollercoaster that had me laughing and crying simultaneously. And the spicy scenes? Ooof they were hot! 🥵
Overall I love everything about this book. It explores grief and loss but also new beginnings and how there is more to life than simply existing. You never know what Fate has in store for you.
Also, that cameo was everything! 🩷
Thank you Lauren for the arc. I cannot wait to read the rest of the seasons.
Book 2 In the Hallowed Harbinger series
Each book in the series is an interconnected standalone, bringing in a new season and a new couple.
This book is a spicy Spring read!
By LR Friedman -- @lrfriedmanauthor
Out today! 🎉🥂 Congratulations!
I have been waiting for this book since reading Etched in Frost last year and couldn't stop recommending it to everyone. And it didn't disappoint.
🐇 Sir Thumps A Lot ! 🐰🩷
Lauren has created the most beautiful universe called Florezca where souls go to heal, and bunnies bring Spring to the mortal world. It's full of lush flowers and pastel colors - it's whimsical, magical and full of Spring vibes.🌷
Lauren's strong suit is how she creates her characters who feel so real you want to hang out with them. You become attached and can't wait to see them again.
Monroe is newly immortal and Briar, her fated mate, is the one responsible. Their relationship is an emotional rollercoaster that had me laughing and crying simultaneously. And the spicy scenes? Ooof they were hot! 🥵
Overall I love everything about this book. It explores grief and loss but also new beginnings and how there is more to life than simply existing. You never know what Fate has in store for you.
Also, that cameo was everything! 🩷
Thank you Lauren for the arc. I cannot wait to read the rest of the seasons.
May 8, 2026
LR's creativity and writing beauty really shines in this series. I sat in silence after I read Etched in Frost, and I felt similarly when I finished Inked in Bloom. This book is great for those who like romance with a bit of paranormal/urban fantasy.
Tropes:
🌸 Fated Mates/Rejected Mate
🌸 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🌸 Single Dad
🌸 Teacher x Art Therapist
🌸 Bunny Shifters
Monroe is living her life as an art therapist, taking care of her friend’s bunny and fostering an injured one, when she tragically dies. She is now in an afterlife where she returns to earth and brings in the spring season. She has no interest in any of it, only to get back home because she doesn’t feel like her work is finished there.
I really have enjoyed this world LR has created where people go after death that feel like their earth life wasn’t fulfilled. I find the concept really beautiful, and I found myself thinking throughout reading the book how I should live my life to where I feel fulfilled when it’s done. Monroe’s determination to get home to continue to help those that were in her life, and her growth when realizing that everything is working out okay…it really hit hard. Briar’s background and learning why he grew up his whole life in this realm gave even more depth to this story.
🌶️🌶️.5
Thank you so much, LR, for sending me a copy of this book!
Tropes:
🌸 Fated Mates/Rejected Mate
🌸 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🌸 Single Dad
🌸 Teacher x Art Therapist
🌸 Bunny Shifters
Monroe is living her life as an art therapist, taking care of her friend’s bunny and fostering an injured one, when she tragically dies. She is now in an afterlife where she returns to earth and brings in the spring season. She has no interest in any of it, only to get back home because she doesn’t feel like her work is finished there.
I really have enjoyed this world LR has created where people go after death that feel like their earth life wasn’t fulfilled. I find the concept really beautiful, and I found myself thinking throughout reading the book how I should live my life to where I feel fulfilled when it’s done. Monroe’s determination to get home to continue to help those that were in her life, and her growth when realizing that everything is working out okay…it really hit hard. Briar’s background and learning why he grew up his whole life in this realm gave even more depth to this story.
🌶️🌶️.5
Thank you so much, LR, for sending me a copy of this book!
May 13, 2026
I ate this up! I had no doubt I would love this as I demolished Etched in Frost (book 1) and still think about that book regularly, so of course this was going to be the same. I'll admit, I was worried this wasn't going to live up to my expectations from book 1, but they are so different from each other that my brain doesn't even try to compare them and truly appreciates them for their individual stories.
The world of Floreszca that L R Freidman creates is beautiful, vibrant and fun that I really wish we could visit it for real. We are given great details accounts on everything that the story was easily forming in my mind and I found myself fully absorbed into this world.
She tackles some really rough topics, such as death and grief, with such grace and I love the message she conveys on how much impact you can have on someone without realising. And the relationships between that characters, whether it's as fated mates or friendships feels some wholesome that it nicely balances out the darker/sad aspects of this story.
Cannot wait for the next book and really want to see more of the summer Storms. I also have so many questions from the end of this book that I really hope they are answered in the next one.
Tropes
Fated mates
Rejected mates
Bunny shifters
Afterlife
Single dad MMC
Magical tattoos
Grief & Loss
Interconnected standalone
Slow burn
The world of Floreszca that L R Freidman creates is beautiful, vibrant and fun that I really wish we could visit it for real. We are given great details accounts on everything that the story was easily forming in my mind and I found myself fully absorbed into this world.
She tackles some really rough topics, such as death and grief, with such grace and I love the message she conveys on how much impact you can have on someone without realising. And the relationships between that characters, whether it's as fated mates or friendships feels some wholesome that it nicely balances out the darker/sad aspects of this story.
Cannot wait for the next book and really want to see more of the summer Storms. I also have so many questions from the end of this book that I really hope they are answered in the next one.
Tropes
Fated mates
Rejected mates
Bunny shifters
Afterlife
Single dad MMC
Magical tattoos
Grief & Loss
Interconnected standalone
Slow burn
May 13, 2026
Thank you to the author for the free e-ARC! This is my honest review!
Inked in Bloom is the second installment in the Hallowed Harbringers series and would recommend reading in order! This story follows Monroe, who finds herself no longer mortal and has to understand how to be a Bloom...while also juggling the mate bond to a fellow Bloom, Briar.
I really loved Briar and so glad to have been told his story! He's not only a hot professor but he's also the sweetest dad to adorable children! I wish we would have received more chapters with his POV but his backstory will make you fall in love with him!
Monroe was a tough cookie but to me she feels so real! After first passing she doesn't want to accept her fate and tries to get back to her life and I really enjoyed her character arc!
I found the bunny jokes throughout the book hilarious and quirky. This is very much a heavy on the emotions book but there's enough romance and thrill spread throughout to keep you going!
If you are looking for a "he got stuck as a really cute bunny and she nursed him back to health without realizing he wasn't actually a bunny" then please pick this up! But also if you want a mental health/grief acceptance book with rejected mates/fated mates then please also pick this up!
Inked in Bloom is the second installment in the Hallowed Harbringers series and would recommend reading in order! This story follows Monroe, who finds herself no longer mortal and has to understand how to be a Bloom...while also juggling the mate bond to a fellow Bloom, Briar.
I really loved Briar and so glad to have been told his story! He's not only a hot professor but he's also the sweetest dad to adorable children! I wish we would have received more chapters with his POV but his backstory will make you fall in love with him!
Monroe was a tough cookie but to me she feels so real! After first passing she doesn't want to accept her fate and tries to get back to her life and I really enjoyed her character arc!
I found the bunny jokes throughout the book hilarious and quirky. This is very much a heavy on the emotions book but there's enough romance and thrill spread throughout to keep you going!
If you are looking for a "he got stuck as a really cute bunny and she nursed him back to health without realizing he wasn't actually a bunny" then please pick this up! But also if you want a mental health/grief acceptance book with rejected mates/fated mates then please also pick this up!
May 18, 2026
4.5⭐️ 3🌶️
I just absolutely LOVE the world that LR Friedman is building with the Hallowed Harbingers series! Florezca, where the Blooms (aka the spring harbingers) dwell, is an absolute DREAM! It’s whimsical and fun but also so intricately thought out to allow for the story to flow perfectly with each part of Florezca being so important to Monroe and Briar’s story. And OMG I loved their story so much 🥹 Briar is this cool tattooed professor, who rides a floracycle and is also this amazing single girl-dad to 4 adorable daughters. And then there’s newly deceased Monroe who wakes up in Florezca as a Bloom, mourning her life as a therapist and having to deal with a mating bond, new magic, and a whole new outlook on the afterlife. Oh did I mention she thought Briar was an actual bunny (nope he’s a bunny shifter) who she was nursing back to health back in the real world… and she also ran in front of a bus because of him and that’s how she died?! Yeah…. She’s got a lot on her plate to figure out! Their character growth, the mating bond denial, the will-they-won’t-they, the spiceeeee, the found family and side characters - I LOVED IT ALL!
I cannot wait to find out what is up with those Storms in the next season!!
I just absolutely LOVE the world that LR Friedman is building with the Hallowed Harbingers series! Florezca, where the Blooms (aka the spring harbingers) dwell, is an absolute DREAM! It’s whimsical and fun but also so intricately thought out to allow for the story to flow perfectly with each part of Florezca being so important to Monroe and Briar’s story. And OMG I loved their story so much 🥹 Briar is this cool tattooed professor, who rides a floracycle and is also this amazing single girl-dad to 4 adorable daughters. And then there’s newly deceased Monroe who wakes up in Florezca as a Bloom, mourning her life as a therapist and having to deal with a mating bond, new magic, and a whole new outlook on the afterlife. Oh did I mention she thought Briar was an actual bunny (nope he’s a bunny shifter) who she was nursing back to health back in the real world… and she also ran in front of a bus because of him and that’s how she died?! Yeah…. She’s got a lot on her plate to figure out! Their character growth, the mating bond denial, the will-they-won’t-they, the spiceeeee, the found family and side characters - I LOVED IT ALL!
I cannot wait to find out what is up with those Storms in the next season!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was such a good time. After reading Etched in Frost, I knew this was going to be wild ride, but a fun one.
Monroe definitely went through it in this book. From her life totally changing to learning that bunny shifters exist was fun to read. While sometimes I needed her to just be happy that she had Briar - her big feelings and hesitancy was totally valid.
Briar - my man. I loved him so much - I'm a sucker for a single dad trope and this didn't disappoint. I don't want to go into too much detail, to avoid spoilers, but the name he gives them had me swooning. It was such an odd experience to think a bunny shifter could turn into a hot single dad - but here we are and it worked in this story.
Briar/Monroe - he was an absolute golden retriever and was so patient with her. However, once the spice hits.. it hit. This may be one of the spicier books I've read, and I've read a lot of books with smut.
If you want a story that is just a good time, that's a little unhinged (in a good way) this is the book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed the first book, but liked this one in a totally different way. I loved the full depiction of spring and how Monroe goes from death into the new spring of her afterlife. The tone matched the first book and continued with the seasonal symmetry in a beautiful way. Even with the appearance of familiar characters.
Briar and his patience for Monroe’s frustration and fear, and how their relationship transitions throughout the book were done well without being daunting or heavy. And the eventual mirrored introspection of Monroe looking at her own reactions, emotions and experiences smoothed over those transitions for them nicely. Even the parts that were meant to be awkward and uncertain. And the ‘unique’ version of knotting was also appreciated in the context of the theme in the book.
I look forward to continuing to read the series.
I received this book as an ARC copy from the author.
Briar and his patience for Monroe’s frustration and fear, and how their relationship transitions throughout the book were done well without being daunting or heavy. And the eventual mirrored introspection of Monroe looking at her own reactions, emotions and experiences smoothed over those transitions for them nicely. Even the parts that were meant to be awkward and uncertain. And the ‘unique’ version of knotting was also appreciated in the context of the theme in the book.
I look forward to continuing to read the series.
I received this book as an ARC copy from the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
Ummmm, where can I find a school like this? I need a professor like Briar if that’s how class is on day one! 😮💨 Dr. Tanner is definitely a force to be reckoned with, I tell you. Briar has his work cut out for him, especially considering how their relationship started.
Now, this one was a slow burn, I tell ya. I did really like the tension and the story and the emotions that Monroe worked through. Showing that even a therapist may need some help too every once in a while. Loved all the spring vibes, makes me want to go out and garden even tho I am like Monroe and have a black thumb 🤣! But absolutely had a great time with this book and really loving how they ‘celebrate’ their solstices! Like I am so appreciative of the opinions shifters have on nudity! 😉 And can I just shout out how much I like tattoos and leather jackets….just saying.
Such a great follow-up book to ETCHED IN FROST, and it makes me super excited for the next book!! 🫶🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶️🌶️.5
Ummmm, where can I find a school like this? I need a professor like Briar if that’s how class is on day one! 😮💨 Dr. Tanner is definitely a force to be reckoned with, I tell you. Briar has his work cut out for him, especially considering how their relationship started.
Now, this one was a slow burn, I tell ya. I did really like the tension and the story and the emotions that Monroe worked through. Showing that even a therapist may need some help too every once in a while. Loved all the spring vibes, makes me want to go out and garden even tho I am like Monroe and have a black thumb 🤣! But absolutely had a great time with this book and really loving how they ‘celebrate’ their solstices! Like I am so appreciative of the opinions shifters have on nudity! 😉 And can I just shout out how much I like tattoos and leather jackets….just saying.
Such a great follow-up book to ETCHED IN FROST, and it makes me super excited for the next book!! 🫶🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 🌶️🌶️.5
May 17, 2026
I was very excited to read the continuation of Friedman’s Hallowed Harbinger series after falling in love with the idea of seasonal harbingers in Etched in Frost.
Inked in Bloom is a story of life, death, love, and purpose wrapped in the whimsical and beautiful world of Florezca.
This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions that left me fully invested in Fate’s plan for Briar, Monroe, and the rest of the Blooms.
Throughout the story, Friedman wove a tale of grief and purpose that highlighted just how much impact we can have on others — both in this life and beyond. She beautifully illustrates how our influence often reaches farther than we realize. There’s a depth to this story that is both heartwarming and emotionally intense, with plenty of twists along the way.
The adorable bunny shifters, a breed of harbingers, brought a level of spice that made me blush while also painting a vivid and enchanting picture of spring that made me swoon
Inked in Bloom is a story of life, death, love, and purpose wrapped in the whimsical and beautiful world of Florezca.
This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions that left me fully invested in Fate’s plan for Briar, Monroe, and the rest of the Blooms.
Throughout the story, Friedman wove a tale of grief and purpose that highlighted just how much impact we can have on others — both in this life and beyond. She beautifully illustrates how our influence often reaches farther than we realize. There’s a depth to this story that is both heartwarming and emotionally intense, with plenty of twists along the way.
The adorable bunny shifters, a breed of harbingers, brought a level of spice that made me blush while also painting a vivid and enchanting picture of spring that made me swoon
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