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Flowers in July
From Dancing with Bees author Anna Maynard, this big-hearted and relatable romance is a story of self-discovery, second chances, and learning to back yourself.
Disciplined and pragmatic, Mary Roberts feels she's got her life under control. She's recently moved to Hobart, she's nearing the end of her training as an emergency doctor, and she keeps a tight handle on the wellbeing of her mother and her sister back home in Sydney.
But when it comes to her long-term boyfriend, Felix, Mary's always had a blind spot. That is until she finds another woman's G-string in their bed....
In need of a temporary escape, Mary signs up to help run a wilderness expedition medicine course. She soon discovers that rock climbing, plunging into freezing cold water, and working in the close company of a grumpy yet disconcertingly magnetic retrieval doctor is pushing her way out of her comfort zone.
Suddenly, everything she thought she knew about herself is starting to unravel. The question is, what will the fallout be? A breakdown in her relationship with her sister? Her mother's brittle mental health reaching the point of catastrophe? Or—most dangerous of all—could Mary Roberts finally be ready to fall in love?
Disciplined and pragmatic, Mary Roberts feels she's got her life under control. She's recently moved to Hobart, she's nearing the end of her training as an emergency doctor, and she keeps a tight handle on the wellbeing of her mother and her sister back home in Sydney.
But when it comes to her long-term boyfriend, Felix, Mary's always had a blind spot. That is until she finds another woman's G-string in their bed....
In need of a temporary escape, Mary signs up to help run a wilderness expedition medicine course. She soon discovers that rock climbing, plunging into freezing cold water, and working in the close company of a grumpy yet disconcertingly magnetic retrieval doctor is pushing her way out of her comfort zone.
Suddenly, everything she thought she knew about herself is starting to unravel. The question is, what will the fallout be? A breakdown in her relationship with her sister? Her mother's brittle mental health reaching the point of catastrophe? Or—most dangerous of all—could Mary Roberts finally be ready to fall in love?
Audible Audio
Published March 31, 2026
About the author
Anna Maynard
2 books32 followersAnna Maynard’s experience as a writer had largely been restricted to medical letters and discharge summaries through her years of medical training. So after sitting her specialist medical exams she decided to turn her hand to romance.
When she’s not dreaming up fictional heroines and swoony love interests, Anna can be found working in the hospital, pottering in her garden or playing songs with her pop band.
Anna lives in Tasmania with her husband and children. Anna published her debut novel, Dancing with Bees, in 2025. Flowers in July is her second novel.
When she’s not dreaming up fictional heroines and swoony love interests, Anna can be found working in the hospital, pottering in her garden or playing songs with her pop band.
Anna lives in Tasmania with her husband and children. Anna published her debut novel, Dancing with Bees, in 2025. Flowers in July is her second novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
May 31, 2026
Charming. Heartwarming. Fun. Memorable.
July 12, 2026
Review to follow
May 6, 2026
Such a gorgeous, heartwarming and uplifting read! It's rare that a book can grasp me from the start and cause a never-ending binge. Folks, I finished Flowers in July in just a few hours, establishing it in my 2026 top reads.
If it wasn't for the publisher sending me an ARC, perhaps I wouldn't have come across Anna Maynard. Her writing is emotive and lyrical. The storyline flowed with purpose and the sloooooowww burn that was Mary and Abel's relationship was worth the frustration.
Mary is a relatable character. She's just finishing up her medical degree in Hobart and when we meet her, she's just discovered that her boyfriend Felix has been cheating on her. As Mary has left her mum and sister back in Sydney, and has no close friends, she's left without a support network and effectively, homeless. Mary does eventually find accommodation though, but the situation is unsuitable. Work is no better, when Felix is rostered on the same shifts.
In order to escape, Mary agrees to help run a medical wilderness course. However, she never expected Felix to also attend- or to be sharing a cabin with her boss, Abel. Awkward!!
Yet, it's on this course where we start seeing Mary's walls start crumbling. A lifetime of selflessness has only left her without a sense of self worth. Mary has never let herself come first, her mum and sister are priorities.
Abel is the most unexpected person to actually see Mary and her ability to shine. Even though they start off with a bit of a frenemy situation, his kindness eventually makes Mary sit up and think for a moment. Needless to say, forced proximity and a fake relationship to annoy Felix eventually develops into something much more... Maybe even romance.
At the heart of it, this is a romantic tale, yet themes of self discovery and family values provide a strong core. Given that it's set mainly in Tasmania, you can expect a picturesque backdrop, which only enhances the story.
Thank you to Echo Publishing for a copy to read and review, also for introducing me to Anna Maynard.
5 🌟
If it wasn't for the publisher sending me an ARC, perhaps I wouldn't have come across Anna Maynard. Her writing is emotive and lyrical. The storyline flowed with purpose and the sloooooowww burn that was Mary and Abel's relationship was worth the frustration.
Mary is a relatable character. She's just finishing up her medical degree in Hobart and when we meet her, she's just discovered that her boyfriend Felix has been cheating on her. As Mary has left her mum and sister back in Sydney, and has no close friends, she's left without a support network and effectively, homeless. Mary does eventually find accommodation though, but the situation is unsuitable. Work is no better, when Felix is rostered on the same shifts.
In order to escape, Mary agrees to help run a medical wilderness course. However, she never expected Felix to also attend- or to be sharing a cabin with her boss, Abel. Awkward!!
Yet, it's on this course where we start seeing Mary's walls start crumbling. A lifetime of selflessness has only left her without a sense of self worth. Mary has never let herself come first, her mum and sister are priorities.
Abel is the most unexpected person to actually see Mary and her ability to shine. Even though they start off with a bit of a frenemy situation, his kindness eventually makes Mary sit up and think for a moment. Needless to say, forced proximity and a fake relationship to annoy Felix eventually develops into something much more... Maybe even romance.
At the heart of it, this is a romantic tale, yet themes of self discovery and family values provide a strong core. Given that it's set mainly in Tasmania, you can expect a picturesque backdrop, which only enhances the story.
Thank you to Echo Publishing for a copy to read and review, also for introducing me to Anna Maynard.
5 🌟
July 6, 2026
Meh... Got sick of the swooning over Abel. Not for me. Did like the references and descriptions of Tasmania.
March 30, 2026
I absolutely loved this book from the very beginning.
I don’t usually gravitate towards a slower burn, but in this case it suited the story and the characters perfectly. I found myself completely invested in Mary and Abel, and their journey felt natural, layered, and genuinely engaging.
Mary is such a relatable character. She’s disciplined and trying to hold everything together, but watching her slowly unravel and grow throughout the story was one of the highlights for me. Her development felt authentic and never rushed.
And Abel… I loved him. Strong, determined and courageous, but also kind, steady and genuinely good. That balance made him such a compelling character, and their dynamic worked beautifully.
This is a story about stepping outside your comfort zone, facing the things you’ve been avoiding, and allowing yourself to change. It’s thoughtful, emotional and quietly powerful.
A five-star read for me.
I don’t usually gravitate towards a slower burn, but in this case it suited the story and the characters perfectly. I found myself completely invested in Mary and Abel, and their journey felt natural, layered, and genuinely engaging.
Mary is such a relatable character. She’s disciplined and trying to hold everything together, but watching her slowly unravel and grow throughout the story was one of the highlights for me. Her development felt authentic and never rushed.
And Abel… I loved him. Strong, determined and courageous, but also kind, steady and genuinely good. That balance made him such a compelling character, and their dynamic worked beautifully.
This is a story about stepping outside your comfort zone, facing the things you’ve been avoiding, and allowing yourself to change. It’s thoughtful, emotional and quietly powerful.
A five-star read for me.
August 5, 2026
This was the book I didn’t know I needed!
After a string of dark, twisty thrillers, this was the perfect palate cleanser.
If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll know I rarely read romance, so this one was a pleasant surprise. A huge thank you to @echo_publishing for sending it my way. Without this unexpected book mail, I never would have met these wonderful characters.
This was everything I want in a rom-com. The characters were realistic, the banter was witty, the chemistry was undeniable, and I had so many genuine laugh-out-loud moments.
But beneath the humour is plenty of heart. Mary is in her final year of medical training, juggling family expectations, an ex who’s a complete serial-cheating jerk, and a colleague whose growing presence threatens to derail the carefully planned future she’s worked so hard for.
Mary is guarded, constantly second-guessing herself, and her internal monologue is absolutely hilarious. Watching her navigate love, family and finding the courage to embrace the unexpected made for such a warm and satisfying read.
If you’re looking for a heartwarming rom-com with memorable characters, plenty of laughs, and a gorgeous Tasmanian setting, add this one to your TBR. You can thank me later.
After a string of dark, twisty thrillers, this was the perfect palate cleanser.
If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll know I rarely read romance, so this one was a pleasant surprise. A huge thank you to @echo_publishing for sending it my way. Without this unexpected book mail, I never would have met these wonderful characters.
This was everything I want in a rom-com. The characters were realistic, the banter was witty, the chemistry was undeniable, and I had so many genuine laugh-out-loud moments.
But beneath the humour is plenty of heart. Mary is in her final year of medical training, juggling family expectations, an ex who’s a complete serial-cheating jerk, and a colleague whose growing presence threatens to derail the carefully planned future she’s worked so hard for.
Mary is guarded, constantly second-guessing herself, and her internal monologue is absolutely hilarious. Watching her navigate love, family and finding the courage to embrace the unexpected made for such a warm and satisfying read.
If you’re looking for a heartwarming rom-com with memorable characters, plenty of laughs, and a gorgeous Tasmanian setting, add this one to your TBR. You can thank me later.
June 23, 2026
If I could give it 6 stars, I would
June 11, 2026
I read Flowers in July because of its cover, but it fell short 😪. Now, while this is a romance story, it focuses more on our FMC, Mary, finding herself again and stop being a people pleaser. And while I love that this was more of a character-driven story, I also wanted it to at least lean into the romance plot properly!!
And right now I am getting a bit tired with the slow burn trope. Hear me out real quick: I know that it is a slow burn, but does the real burning have to start very close to the ending of the book, giving it a rushed ending?
Flowers in July had everything to make it good – forced proximity, shared room, pretend dating, male love interest offering his house to female love interest to stay, making it kind of a roommates situation – but it just didn't live up to my expectations 😪. Slow burn that didn’t give me yearning and tension, love interests I couldn’t root for 🙂🥲.
And right now I am getting a bit tired with the slow burn trope. Hear me out real quick: I know that it is a slow burn, but does the real burning have to start very close to the ending of the book, giving it a rushed ending?
Flowers in July had everything to make it good – forced proximity, shared room, pretend dating, male love interest offering his house to female love interest to stay, making it kind of a roommates situation – but it just didn't live up to my expectations 😪. Slow burn that didn’t give me yearning and tension, love interests I couldn’t root for 🙂🥲.
May 27, 2026
One of the best books I've read this year
Flowers in July by Anna Maynard
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ @annamaynardauthor
Wow!!! I think this is my favourite book of 2026.
I am not a romance book lover.
I picked this book up due to the appealing cover and planed to read 50 pages a night to 'get it read'.
I picked it up last night and finished it last night.... 😴🤪😆
I absolutely couldn't put it down. I needed to brush my teeth and even that that hard work to put it down.
I am in love with Mary and my new book crush is Abel.
This story was so engaging and so clever and witty, even the romance haters will love it. Do yourself a favour and read it!!!
"Disciplined and pragmatic, Mary Roberts feels she's got her life under control. She's recently moved to Hobart, she's nearing the end of her training as an emergency doctor, and she keeps a tight handle on the wellbeing of her mother and her sister back home in Sydney.
But when it comes to her long-term boyfriend, Felix, Mary's always had a blind spot. That is until she finds another woman's G-string in their bed....
In need of a temporary escape, Mary signs up to help run a wilderness expedition medicine course. She soon discovers that rock climbing, plunging into freezing cold water, and working in the close company of a grumpy yet disconcertingly magnetic retrieval doctor is pushing her way out of her comfort zone.
Suddenly, everything she thought she knew about herself is starting to unravel. The question is, what will the fallout be? A breakdown in her relationship with her sister? Her mother's brittle mental health reaching the point of catastrophe? Or—most dangerous of all—could Mary Roberts finally be ready to fall in love?"
Flowers in July by Anna Maynard
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ @annamaynardauthor
Wow!!! I think this is my favourite book of 2026.
I am not a romance book lover.
I picked this book up due to the appealing cover and planed to read 50 pages a night to 'get it read'.
I picked it up last night and finished it last night.... 😴🤪😆
I absolutely couldn't put it down. I needed to brush my teeth and even that that hard work to put it down.
I am in love with Mary and my new book crush is Abel.
This story was so engaging and so clever and witty, even the romance haters will love it. Do yourself a favour and read it!!!
"Disciplined and pragmatic, Mary Roberts feels she's got her life under control. She's recently moved to Hobart, she's nearing the end of her training as an emergency doctor, and she keeps a tight handle on the wellbeing of her mother and her sister back home in Sydney.
But when it comes to her long-term boyfriend, Felix, Mary's always had a blind spot. That is until she finds another woman's G-string in their bed....
In need of a temporary escape, Mary signs up to help run a wilderness expedition medicine course. She soon discovers that rock climbing, plunging into freezing cold water, and working in the close company of a grumpy yet disconcertingly magnetic retrieval doctor is pushing her way out of her comfort zone.
Suddenly, everything she thought she knew about herself is starting to unravel. The question is, what will the fallout be? A breakdown in her relationship with her sister? Her mother's brittle mental health reaching the point of catastrophe? Or—most dangerous of all—could Mary Roberts finally be ready to fall in love?"
April 6, 2026
This was such a heartwarming, quietly powerful read.
I loved the opening chapter and how it set the tone straight away, balancing humour with a quiet sense of resignation.
Abel is truly a man with all the green flags. Steady, patient, and supportive in a way that never felt performative. What I loved most was how he allowed Mary the space to rebuild herself after a difficult upbringing and past relationship. There was no rushing, no pressure. Just a genuine, respectful connection that unfolded naturally.
The relationship felt raw and honest, like how real relationships actually develop when family, healing, and new love all intertwine. Nothing felt forced, which made every moment between them feel completely natural.
I also really appreciated the way their connection was built. The process of getting to know each other felt unique and intentional, making the slow burn incredibly satisfying.
As a nurse, I loved the medical storyline. It added an extra layer of interest without overwhelming the story.
And Tasmania honestly felt like a third main character. There was something so wistful and whimsical about the setting. You could really feel Mary rediscovering herself in that magical part of the world.
It’s one of those stories that feels gentle but leaves a lasting impact.
I loved the opening chapter and how it set the tone straight away, balancing humour with a quiet sense of resignation.
Abel is truly a man with all the green flags. Steady, patient, and supportive in a way that never felt performative. What I loved most was how he allowed Mary the space to rebuild herself after a difficult upbringing and past relationship. There was no rushing, no pressure. Just a genuine, respectful connection that unfolded naturally.
The relationship felt raw and honest, like how real relationships actually develop when family, healing, and new love all intertwine. Nothing felt forced, which made every moment between them feel completely natural.
I also really appreciated the way their connection was built. The process of getting to know each other felt unique and intentional, making the slow burn incredibly satisfying.
As a nurse, I loved the medical storyline. It added an extra layer of interest without overwhelming the story.
And Tasmania honestly felt like a third main character. There was something so wistful and whimsical about the setting. You could really feel Mary rediscovering herself in that magical part of the world.
It’s one of those stories that feels gentle but leaves a lasting impact.
March 22, 2026
Mary Roberts has her life under control; she’s moved to Hobart, is nearing the end of her training as an emergency doctor and she’s got a handle on her mother and sister back home.
Or rather, she had control, until she finds evidence that her boyfriend, Felix, has cheated on her… Again!
In need of an escape, Mary signs herself up to help run a wilderness expedition medicine course taking her out of her comfort zone.
I found myself loving Mary from the very beginning! Her journey to this point was covered really well and I feel as readers we have a great understanding of who she is and how we got to this point. Her story as the typical ‘eldest daughter’ was relatable and I especially loved her relationship with her sister and how that was explained.
Abel, the gentle revival doctor is also fantastically written. The way he helps Mary come out of her shell and realise that she’s not the person that Felix has made her out to be was so lovely to read.
Just all round a beautiful book and I can’t wait to see what Anna writes next
Thank you to Good Reading Mag, Echo Publishers and Anna Maynard for my copy of this book
Or rather, she had control, until she finds evidence that her boyfriend, Felix, has cheated on her… Again!
In need of an escape, Mary signs herself up to help run a wilderness expedition medicine course taking her out of her comfort zone.
I found myself loving Mary from the very beginning! Her journey to this point was covered really well and I feel as readers we have a great understanding of who she is and how we got to this point. Her story as the typical ‘eldest daughter’ was relatable and I especially loved her relationship with her sister and how that was explained.
Abel, the gentle revival doctor is also fantastically written. The way he helps Mary come out of her shell and realise that she’s not the person that Felix has made her out to be was so lovely to read.
Just all round a beautiful book and I can’t wait to see what Anna writes next
Thank you to Good Reading Mag, Echo Publishers and Anna Maynard for my copy of this book
June 30, 2026
Adorable home grown love story
April 14, 2026
🎶 Ooh baby I love your way.. 🎶
These song lyrics popped into my head when I was pondering on some words for this review. I had such faith it would be a winner. Dancing With Bees was gorgeous last year, the content is always relatable and the feel good is simply welcome. The first page was one I fell into, and I realised this author has a way. A way with words, beautiful inner monologues and a way with love.
So… the book and song pairing was born. I always love a story which matches the author’s career. I’ve experienced this with journos and doctors often. You know they know, which means it translates authentically and it’s real.
Mary is the uptight yet generous doctor who lives for her family, perfectionist, rigid and blind to this as she surges forward for those she loves. Crossing paths with a colleague who sees in her everything she assumes is lacking within, driven by years of supporting her family when no one else could.
Driven and hard to penetrate in this closed off emotional state, it’s up to this gorgeous man to slowly help her bloom. He showed a gentleness that radiated, a lovely part of the narrative.
It’s not all flowers and romance, the themes are serious, pushing into a deeper emotional layer, again, I loved the accuracy. (Lots of references to the wise/emotional mind). I love and notice these things equally. There was a reference to the way one addiction was portrayed, though this was nuanced. This is because I reflect into my own experience at times. I was captivated by the arc, which is always an excellent sign for me.
Beautifully written, lyrical at times and some honestly lovely lovely intimate scenes portraying a woman felling safe in her body, knowing her time has come, and those darker times are not to define her.
Thank you to the publisher, as well as @chaptersforchangeau for my very own bookclub box which looks down a different path to the read/review journey. It is *the* bookclub with a conscience.
What’s next Anna?!
These song lyrics popped into my head when I was pondering on some words for this review. I had such faith it would be a winner. Dancing With Bees was gorgeous last year, the content is always relatable and the feel good is simply welcome. The first page was one I fell into, and I realised this author has a way. A way with words, beautiful inner monologues and a way with love.
So… the book and song pairing was born. I always love a story which matches the author’s career. I’ve experienced this with journos and doctors often. You know they know, which means it translates authentically and it’s real.
Mary is the uptight yet generous doctor who lives for her family, perfectionist, rigid and blind to this as she surges forward for those she loves. Crossing paths with a colleague who sees in her everything she assumes is lacking within, driven by years of supporting her family when no one else could.
Driven and hard to penetrate in this closed off emotional state, it’s up to this gorgeous man to slowly help her bloom. He showed a gentleness that radiated, a lovely part of the narrative.
It’s not all flowers and romance, the themes are serious, pushing into a deeper emotional layer, again, I loved the accuracy. (Lots of references to the wise/emotional mind). I love and notice these things equally. There was a reference to the way one addiction was portrayed, though this was nuanced. This is because I reflect into my own experience at times. I was captivated by the arc, which is always an excellent sign for me.
Beautifully written, lyrical at times and some honestly lovely lovely intimate scenes portraying a woman felling safe in her body, knowing her time has come, and those darker times are not to define her.
Thank you to the publisher, as well as @chaptersforchangeau for my very own bookclub box which looks down a different path to the read/review journey. It is *the* bookclub with a conscience.
What’s next Anna?!
April 7, 2026
I had such a fantastic time with this book; it was honestly the perfect weekend read for me.
Flowers in July follows Mary, who very quickly finds her carefully controlled life unravelling after discovering her boyfriend has been cheating. From there, she ends up on a wilderness medical course, and let’s just say… watching someone who is not adventurous get thrown into that kind of environment made for some absolutely hilarious moments.
Mary is definitely a little uptight, and seeing her completely out of her comfort zone was both entertaining and, at times, quite relatable. But what really made this story shine for me was the dynamic between her and Abel.
And yes… we need to talk about Abel for a second.
He’s grumpy, a little bit cheeky, incredibly encouraging, and just quietly confident in the best way. There’s something about the way he supports Mary while also challenging her that just worked so well. Their banter had me smiling more than once, and there were quite a few laugh-out-loud moments scattered throughout.
Beneath all the humour, though, there’s a really nice layer of self-discovery running through the story. Mary’s journey isn’t just about moving on from a relationship; it’s about learning to let go of control, to be a little more open, and to actually live in the messiness of life rather than trying to manage every part of it.
It’s light, it’s fun, but it also has heart, which is exactly what I want from a rom-com.
If you enjoy grumpy x sunshine dynamics, forced proximity, and a bit of fake-dating energy, I think you’ll have a really lovely time with this one, too.
This was a solid 4-star read for me, and I’m definitely keen to pick up more from Anne Maynard in the future.
Flowers in July follows Mary, who very quickly finds her carefully controlled life unravelling after discovering her boyfriend has been cheating. From there, she ends up on a wilderness medical course, and let’s just say… watching someone who is not adventurous get thrown into that kind of environment made for some absolutely hilarious moments.
Mary is definitely a little uptight, and seeing her completely out of her comfort zone was both entertaining and, at times, quite relatable. But what really made this story shine for me was the dynamic between her and Abel.
And yes… we need to talk about Abel for a second.
He’s grumpy, a little bit cheeky, incredibly encouraging, and just quietly confident in the best way. There’s something about the way he supports Mary while also challenging her that just worked so well. Their banter had me smiling more than once, and there were quite a few laugh-out-loud moments scattered throughout.
Beneath all the humour, though, there’s a really nice layer of self-discovery running through the story. Mary’s journey isn’t just about moving on from a relationship; it’s about learning to let go of control, to be a little more open, and to actually live in the messiness of life rather than trying to manage every part of it.
It’s light, it’s fun, but it also has heart, which is exactly what I want from a rom-com.
If you enjoy grumpy x sunshine dynamics, forced proximity, and a bit of fake-dating energy, I think you’ll have a really lovely time with this one, too.
This was a solid 4-star read for me, and I’m definitely keen to pick up more from Anne Maynard in the future.
April 9, 2026
Mary Roberts is a trainee doctor, she was in a six year relationship with Felix, also a doctor, until she discovered another woman's G-string in their bed. Now she's single and homeless whilst simultaneously worrying about her sister (single mother of three) and mother (issues with men and alcohol).
To escape her temporary lack of a home (and Felix her ex) Mary signs up for a week long wilderness expedition medicine course, only to discover that Felix has also signed up - allegedly to persuade her (yet again) to give him a second chance.
Despite the wilderness course being waaaay outside her comfort zone, Mary finds the course leader Abel is a reassuring and empowering presence, in his company she feels capable of stepping outside her comfort zone. However, Mary worries that she is mistaking Abel's niceness for something more.
I really wanted to like this but it just felt a bit meh. Abel just seemed to fall in love with Mary for no reason and was just perfectly kind and nice and supportive ALL THE TIME - he had no nuance or shadow or (frankly) personality. Mary was just dense. Men don't platonically hug you and sleep in the same bed unless they like like you! Also, to complete the trifecta of characters I didn't warm to, Mary's sister got on my nerves. Mary sends her money every month which her sister never acknowledges, every time Mary calls there's some drama with her nieces and nephews, then she has the audacity to complain.
Anyway, I enjoyed the wilderness course part but after that (and there was a lot) it just felt like Mary was being obtuse and there was manufactured drama, which made it drag.
Sorry, not for me.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
To escape her temporary lack of a home (and Felix her ex) Mary signs up for a week long wilderness expedition medicine course, only to discover that Felix has also signed up - allegedly to persuade her (yet again) to give him a second chance.
Despite the wilderness course being waaaay outside her comfort zone, Mary finds the course leader Abel is a reassuring and empowering presence, in his company she feels capable of stepping outside her comfort zone. However, Mary worries that she is mistaking Abel's niceness for something more.
I really wanted to like this but it just felt a bit meh. Abel just seemed to fall in love with Mary for no reason and was just perfectly kind and nice and supportive ALL THE TIME - he had no nuance or shadow or (frankly) personality. Mary was just dense. Men don't platonically hug you and sleep in the same bed unless they like like you! Also, to complete the trifecta of characters I didn't warm to, Mary's sister got on my nerves. Mary sends her money every month which her sister never acknowledges, every time Mary calls there's some drama with her nieces and nephews, then she has the audacity to complain.
Anyway, I enjoyed the wilderness course part but after that (and there was a lot) it just felt like Mary was being obtuse and there was manufactured drama, which made it drag.
Sorry, not for me.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
April 7, 2026
I really loved Flowers in July. It reminded me a little of Happiness for Beginners, in the best possible way. It has a true slow burn, which feels both authentic and satisfying, and I loved watching the build of chemistry between Mary and Abel.
Despite the story being from Mary’s perspective, Abel was so well drawn. It was so cleverly done that I felt I got to know elements of Abel’s character before Mary truly saw them! I’m not typically a fan of a miscommunication trope, but I felt in Mary’s context it was justified and felt both realistic and relatable.
Likewise the interplay between Mary and her sister felt real, and I loved the way Maynard showed their vastly different experiences and perspectives.
What really took this up a star for me was the Tasmanian setting. It was captured beautifully and felt like a grounding thread throughout the story, mirroring Mary’s journey of self discovery. I particularly loved the way it captured the connection we can feel to places that lead them to becoming home.
I’d highly recommend for anyone looking for an emotional, heartwarming, and at times amusing contemporary romance. Thank you to the publisher for an advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
Despite the story being from Mary’s perspective, Abel was so well drawn. It was so cleverly done that I felt I got to know elements of Abel’s character before Mary truly saw them! I’m not typically a fan of a miscommunication trope, but I felt in Mary’s context it was justified and felt both realistic and relatable.
Likewise the interplay between Mary and her sister felt real, and I loved the way Maynard showed their vastly different experiences and perspectives.
What really took this up a star for me was the Tasmanian setting. It was captured beautifully and felt like a grounding thread throughout the story, mirroring Mary’s journey of self discovery. I particularly loved the way it captured the connection we can feel to places that lead them to becoming home.
I’d highly recommend for anyone looking for an emotional, heartwarming, and at times amusing contemporary romance. Thank you to the publisher for an advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
April 12, 2026
"Maybe most people were quite wonderful once you got to know them, and maybe letting people in wasn't as scary as it had always seemed." - Flowers in July by Anna Maynard
As a woman who strives to keep it together, and to work through any setbacks she faced, this book is the balm to my soul. I absolutely enjoyed every bit of it and this book brightened my week, like flowers in July indeed.
Mary Roberts is striving through her training, hoping to get through her exams to become a doctor. Yet she gets anxious with her family situation, and she is reeling from a breakup. When the opportunity arises to participate in a wilderness rescue training program, Mary decides to take it up. As she learns to break out of her comfort zone and be adventurous for once, she realises that there is another adventure that awaits her - loving and trusting another person.
I am always up for stories about women who discover their strength and self-worth after being put through different trials and setbacks. I loved how Mary is always selfless as she puts everyone else before her own self, and how she always looked out for her family. It is always enlightening to read about women like this, and it is also a delightful treat to watch her find love again. What a wonderful and truly beautiful read.
As a woman who strives to keep it together, and to work through any setbacks she faced, this book is the balm to my soul. I absolutely enjoyed every bit of it and this book brightened my week, like flowers in July indeed.
Mary Roberts is striving through her training, hoping to get through her exams to become a doctor. Yet she gets anxious with her family situation, and she is reeling from a breakup. When the opportunity arises to participate in a wilderness rescue training program, Mary decides to take it up. As she learns to break out of her comfort zone and be adventurous for once, she realises that there is another adventure that awaits her - loving and trusting another person.
I am always up for stories about women who discover their strength and self-worth after being put through different trials and setbacks. I loved how Mary is always selfless as she puts everyone else before her own self, and how she always looked out for her family. It is always enlightening to read about women like this, and it is also a delightful treat to watch her find love again. What a wonderful and truly beautiful read.
June 23, 2026
DNF. I put this down at the scene in the Bouncing Blue Tongue motel. Mary, fleeing a cheating partner, is annoyed her room is dirty, asks to switch, and is told by the South American receptionist that it’s the last room available. The woman simply does her job and walks away — and Mary watches her go and decides, unprompted, that this stranger’s life is “mysterious and regrettable,” that she must have come “all the way across the world” only to wind up working here, and graciously concludes their luck is “on a par.”
The receptionist says nothing about her own life. She doesn’t ask for pity. Mary invents an entire failed existence for a woman of colour she’s known for thirty seconds, then uses it to cushion her own self-pity. It’s dressed up as “kinship,” but the condescension is the whole point: the assumption that working this job is a regrettable fate, and that noticing she shares it is a kind of humility.
Maybe the book means to grow Mary out of this. But the author chose to pause here, in a warm-and-affirming romance, to have her narrator look down at an immigrant worker in prose this self-satisfied. As someone who did come from the other side of the world, I didn’t have the stomach to keep reading to find out if it pays off. One star.
The receptionist says nothing about her own life. She doesn’t ask for pity. Mary invents an entire failed existence for a woman of colour she’s known for thirty seconds, then uses it to cushion her own self-pity. It’s dressed up as “kinship,” but the condescension is the whole point: the assumption that working this job is a regrettable fate, and that noticing she shares it is a kind of humility.
Maybe the book means to grow Mary out of this. But the author chose to pause here, in a warm-and-affirming romance, to have her narrator look down at an immigrant worker in prose this self-satisfied. As someone who did come from the other side of the world, I didn’t have the stomach to keep reading to find out if it pays off. One star.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to Echo Publishing for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
This started off incredibly strong. I was hooked right away by the dynamic between the main characters. Their assumptions and constant misreads of each other created such fun tension, and watching that shift from reluctant allies to friends and then slowly into something deeper was so satisfying. The slow burn really worked for me and felt earned rather than rushed.
That said, the middle section lost some momentum. The pacing dragged, and I found myself skimming a few pages just to get things moving again. The heavy reliance on miscommunication also started to frustrate me. At some point I just wanted to shake them and say, “You’re adults. Please just talk to each other.” It felt like conflict that could’ve been solved with one honest conversation.
Thankfully, the final stretch picked back up and delivered emotionally. By the end, I was fully invested again and closed the book feeling positive overall. Not perfect, but still a really enjoyable read with great chemistry and a slow-burn romance that shines.
This started off incredibly strong. I was hooked right away by the dynamic between the main characters. Their assumptions and constant misreads of each other created such fun tension, and watching that shift from reluctant allies to friends and then slowly into something deeper was so satisfying. The slow burn really worked for me and felt earned rather than rushed.
That said, the middle section lost some momentum. The pacing dragged, and I found myself skimming a few pages just to get things moving again. The heavy reliance on miscommunication also started to frustrate me. At some point I just wanted to shake them and say, “You’re adults. Please just talk to each other.” It felt like conflict that could’ve been solved with one honest conversation.
Thankfully, the final stretch picked back up and delivered emotionally. By the end, I was fully invested again and closed the book feeling positive overall. Not perfect, but still a really enjoyable read with great chemistry and a slow-burn romance that shines.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Big thanks to Echo Publishing for sending us a copy to read and review.
A floral inspired bright cover always catches my eye and lures me to open the pages.
Romance is a theme that adds flair, interest and investment in a story.
The portrayal of love is developed authentically and cleverly as Mary not only finds a soul mate but herself.
Mary was sailing through life with her boyfriend, her blinkers were on and not picking up signals until she found a g-string in her bed that did not belong to her.
Her personal journey did a U-turn.
Signing up to do an outdoors medical training course in her adopted home state of Tasmania will challenge, enhance and enlighten her.
Abel will slowly etch his way into her emotional sphere.
Abel and Mary have a series of miscommunications, shifting dynamics and aligned feelings.
A slow burn romance can work well and in this instance it felt right and real. The love and devotion Mary has for her mum and sister adds a layer of compassion and truth.
Quite refreshing to meet Mary after watching toxic characters on MAFS.
A floral inspired bright cover always catches my eye and lures me to open the pages.
Romance is a theme that adds flair, interest and investment in a story.
The portrayal of love is developed authentically and cleverly as Mary not only finds a soul mate but herself.
Mary was sailing through life with her boyfriend, her blinkers were on and not picking up signals until she found a g-string in her bed that did not belong to her.
Her personal journey did a U-turn.
Signing up to do an outdoors medical training course in her adopted home state of Tasmania will challenge, enhance and enlighten her.
Abel will slowly etch his way into her emotional sphere.
Abel and Mary have a series of miscommunications, shifting dynamics and aligned feelings.
A slow burn romance can work well and in this instance it felt right and real. The love and devotion Mary has for her mum and sister adds a layer of compassion and truth.
Quite refreshing to meet Mary after watching toxic characters on MAFS.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oh I just loved this book, so many emotions, self reflection and growth.
Mary has relocated from Sydney to Hobart with her boyfriend of six years, to complete her fellowship in emergency medicine. But on once again finding tell tale signs that he has been cheating on her, she finally bites the bullet and moves out. It’s hard to find suitable accommodation and to give herself breathing space she signs up for a Wilderness Medicine course, not realising she’ll be on the course with Abel Sutherland, one of the grumpy head Dr’s from the Emergency Department.
Mary’s also got a lot going on with her family in Sydney too, so suddenly control freak Mary is very much out of her comfort zone.
For me this was a beautiful book and frankly the tonic I needed with everything going on atm.
I loved the slow burn and respect between the two main characters, the growth of Mary and the way Abel stepped back to encourage that.
Pure pleasure, thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
Mary has relocated from Sydney to Hobart with her boyfriend of six years, to complete her fellowship in emergency medicine. But on once again finding tell tale signs that he has been cheating on her, she finally bites the bullet and moves out. It’s hard to find suitable accommodation and to give herself breathing space she signs up for a Wilderness Medicine course, not realising she’ll be on the course with Abel Sutherland, one of the grumpy head Dr’s from the Emergency Department.
Mary’s also got a lot going on with her family in Sydney too, so suddenly control freak Mary is very much out of her comfort zone.
For me this was a beautiful book and frankly the tonic I needed with everything going on atm.
I loved the slow burn and respect between the two main characters, the growth of Mary and the way Abel stepped back to encourage that.
Pure pleasure, thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy to read.
February 19, 2026
Flowers in July – Anna Maynard 🌼📚
When Echo Publishing sent me an ARC of Flowers in July, I was so excited—and genuinely grateful. Anna Maynard’s debut, Dancing with Bees, was released last year and is a book I still think about daily, so my expectations were high.
Flowers in July follows Mary, a doctor in her final year at a hospital in Tasmania. Fresh out of a relationship with her awful, serial-cheating ex, Felix, Mary is desperate for distance—and escape. On impulse, she signs up for a wilderness expedition medical course. What she doesn’t expect is to be working closely with Abel, the gruff retrieval doctor she’s always written off as permanently grumpy.
Pushed well beyond her comfort zone, Mary forms new friendships and begins to see her life—and herself—differently. She’s long been the glue holding her family together, supporting an alcoholic mother and a single-mum sister who rely heavily on her. But what happens when Mary starts putting herself first? When she finally allows herself to consider her own happiness?
I absolutely loved this book. I read with tears in my eyes and laughed out loud more than once. The banter and chemistry between the two leads is magnetic, warm, and deeply satisfying.
Bravo, Anna—another beautiful novel. I could not put it down. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Flowers in July will be available to purchase at all major booksellers from 31 March 2026.
When Echo Publishing sent me an ARC of Flowers in July, I was so excited—and genuinely grateful. Anna Maynard’s debut, Dancing with Bees, was released last year and is a book I still think about daily, so my expectations were high.
Flowers in July follows Mary, a doctor in her final year at a hospital in Tasmania. Fresh out of a relationship with her awful, serial-cheating ex, Felix, Mary is desperate for distance—and escape. On impulse, she signs up for a wilderness expedition medical course. What she doesn’t expect is to be working closely with Abel, the gruff retrieval doctor she’s always written off as permanently grumpy.
Pushed well beyond her comfort zone, Mary forms new friendships and begins to see her life—and herself—differently. She’s long been the glue holding her family together, supporting an alcoholic mother and a single-mum sister who rely heavily on her. But what happens when Mary starts putting herself first? When she finally allows herself to consider her own happiness?
I absolutely loved this book. I read with tears in my eyes and laughed out loud more than once. The banter and chemistry between the two leads is magnetic, warm, and deeply satisfying.
Bravo, Anna—another beautiful novel. I could not put it down. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Flowers in July will be available to purchase at all major booksellers from 31 March 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Abel Sutherland should be everyone’s new book boyfriend!!
Flowers in July is such a fun warm read. It is also probably one of the slowest burns I’ve ever read. They don’t kiss until 80% through. The slow burn felt natural with how mature both characters are though. It can be a fine line between slow burn and a book being boring or slow. But I would have happily read another six chapters of them at the wilderness training just so I could read all the different ways Abel could help Mary into a harness.
As an Australian who has done a lot of camping in Tasmania I loved reading a book where I actually knew where the characters were. It wouldn’t have mattered anyway though because Anna’s descriptions of the landscape were another highlight of this book.
I rated it four stars and definetly will be wanting a physical copy on my shelf. The cover is absolutely gorgeous by the way. I will now also have to go and read dancing with the bees
Thank you so much to Echo publishing for this ARC
Flowers in July is such a fun warm read. It is also probably one of the slowest burns I’ve ever read. They don’t kiss until 80% through. The slow burn felt natural with how mature both characters are though. It can be a fine line between slow burn and a book being boring or slow. But I would have happily read another six chapters of them at the wilderness training just so I could read all the different ways Abel could help Mary into a harness.
As an Australian who has done a lot of camping in Tasmania I loved reading a book where I actually knew where the characters were. It wouldn’t have mattered anyway though because Anna’s descriptions of the landscape were another highlight of this book.
I rated it four stars and definetly will be wanting a physical copy on my shelf. The cover is absolutely gorgeous by the way. I will now also have to go and read dancing with the bees
Thank you so much to Echo publishing for this ARC
Review of advance copy
Oh! So this is one of those books...
It's 2 37 am on a Tuesday morning and I have to work in less than 4 hours, however this book would not let me sleep until I finished it.
Bursting with emotion and joy , I absolutely loved it. I laughed and cried along with Mary and now I am exhausted.
Mary is in Tasmania for a medical placement before her exams.
She is cheated on by her long term partner, Felix, and somehow ends up on a Wilderness expedition medicine course.
Abel Sutherland is the grumpy leader of this course and Mary hates the great outdoors.
What ensues is funny, sad, inspiring and addictive reading as we learn about family and relearning to like ourselves.
Do yourself a favour and grab a copy.
Good night.
Thanks to Good Reading and Echo Publishing for an ARC of this book with it's gorgeous cover.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved this book! I loved the concept of a woman hitting rock bottom and having to work through her internalized problems to find her way in the world again. I really enjoyed the dynamics between Mary and Abel, he could've been a knight in shining armor for her but instead he pushes her to recognize her worth and make her own decisions.
The story lost points on the star rating due to the classic miscommunication trope for the fmc and the mmc. It felt too repetitive. I also didnt enjoy the strange relationship that Mary had with her sister. I understand that her need to mother her sister was part of the character development but I found it unrealistic that sisters wouldn't talk about their romantic lives with each other. Especially when they're also supposed to be best friends.
The story lost points on the star rating due to the classic miscommunication trope for the fmc and the mmc. It felt too repetitive. I also didnt enjoy the strange relationship that Mary had with her sister. I understand that her need to mother her sister was part of the character development but I found it unrealistic that sisters wouldn't talk about their romantic lives with each other. Especially when they're also supposed to be best friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2026
3.5/5 stars
I really loved this book from the very beginning. It’s a thoughtful, emotional story about self-growth, stepping out of your comfort zone, and starting over.
Mary is a highly relatable character—disciplined yet vulnerable—and her journey of unraveling and rebuilding herself feels authentic and engaging. The slow-burn romance with Abel works beautifully; their connection is natural, layered, and built on mutual respect. Abel, in particular, stands out as a strong yet kind and steady character.
While I personally enjoyed the gentle pacing and character development, at times the romance felt a little understated. Still, it’s a quietly powerful and refreshing read that stays with you.
I really loved this book from the very beginning. It’s a thoughtful, emotional story about self-growth, stepping out of your comfort zone, and starting over.
Mary is a highly relatable character—disciplined yet vulnerable—and her journey of unraveling and rebuilding herself feels authentic and engaging. The slow-burn romance with Abel works beautifully; their connection is natural, layered, and built on mutual respect. Abel, in particular, stands out as a strong yet kind and steady character.
While I personally enjoyed the gentle pacing and character development, at times the romance felt a little understated. Still, it’s a quietly powerful and refreshing read that stays with you.
June 24, 2026
Oh my gosh I absolutely loved this book!!! It’s a romance at its core, but it has a focus on getting outside your comfort zone and figuring out what makes you happy outside of what everyone else needs or thinks, which is a lovely message!
Mary Roberts is living in Hobart to complete the last part of her medical training. She’s disciplined and pragmatic, but her organised life goes off the tracks when she discovers her long term boyfriend Felix has cheated on her. She’s moved out of their shared apartment into a unit that is not ideal for studying, so to have a reprieve, she swaps places with a colleague and goes on a wilderness expedition medical course. Dr Abel is running it, who Mary knows from her hospital shifts and he’s a man of few words usually. He’s got a bit of a reputation for being grumpy on the outside but Mary soon sees how kind he truly is as she works alongside him.
This book was just so lovely. I adored the relationship built between Mary and Abel. Abel was so supportive and believed in Mary‘s capabilities so she could start to believe in herself. Mary‘s love for her sister and mother was so evident and I appreciated that they weren’t a picture perfect family and had struggles too. It was also hilarious and had me laughing and smiling so much while I was reading. Overall, this was such an amazing book and I absolutely adored reading it. I can’t wait to see what Anna writes next and I’m off to hunt down her debut to enjoy soon!
Mary Roberts is living in Hobart to complete the last part of her medical training. She’s disciplined and pragmatic, but her organised life goes off the tracks when she discovers her long term boyfriend Felix has cheated on her. She’s moved out of their shared apartment into a unit that is not ideal for studying, so to have a reprieve, she swaps places with a colleague and goes on a wilderness expedition medical course. Dr Abel is running it, who Mary knows from her hospital shifts and he’s a man of few words usually. He’s got a bit of a reputation for being grumpy on the outside but Mary soon sees how kind he truly is as she works alongside him.
This book was just so lovely. I adored the relationship built between Mary and Abel. Abel was so supportive and believed in Mary‘s capabilities so she could start to believe in herself. Mary‘s love for her sister and mother was so evident and I appreciated that they weren’t a picture perfect family and had struggles too. It was also hilarious and had me laughing and smiling so much while I was reading. Overall, this was such an amazing book and I absolutely adored reading it. I can’t wait to see what Anna writes next and I’m off to hunt down her debut to enjoy soon!
April 1, 2026
What a wonderful story. It's refreshing to read about a genuine, kind, caring male character and Abel is a real highlight of the story.
Mary's life in thrown in to chaos when she discovers her boyfriend has cheated again, unfortunatey they work together and he is not taking no for an answer.
Enter Abel and a wilderness training camp. This is the kind of character I want to read about and not some stereotypical douche canoe. He pushes Mary out of her comfort zone and allows her to be herself and meets her exactly where she needs it. Slow burn, yes. Would I happily read it again. 100%.
Thanks to Netgalley and Allen and Unwin for a copy in exchange for a fair and honets review.
Mary's life in thrown in to chaos when she discovers her boyfriend has cheated again, unfortunatey they work together and he is not taking no for an answer.
Enter Abel and a wilderness training camp. This is the kind of character I want to read about and not some stereotypical douche canoe. He pushes Mary out of her comfort zone and allows her to be herself and meets her exactly where she needs it. Slow burn, yes. Would I happily read it again. 100%.
Thanks to Netgalley and Allen and Unwin for a copy in exchange for a fair and honets review.
April 27, 2026
Now this book sparked my interest from the beginning. Thank you to Echo Publishing for surprising me with this ARC.
Mary thought all was well in her life heading towards exams for her final parts of being who she feels she wants to be. All was well until she finds a lacy g string in her bed. Felix was maybe not on the same plan.
So a new start when things are starting to wrap up is not on Mary’s list. Add a crazy flat, an outdoor course and a new man Abel. This is where it soon picks up. Picks up and wow what a story.
Yet again Anna Maynard has worked the slow burn to absolute explosive romance. Was thrilled to read this as well as Dancing with Bees
Mary thought all was well in her life heading towards exams for her final parts of being who she feels she wants to be. All was well until she finds a lacy g string in her bed. Felix was maybe not on the same plan.
So a new start when things are starting to wrap up is not on Mary’s list. Add a crazy flat, an outdoor course and a new man Abel. This is where it soon picks up. Picks up and wow what a story.
Yet again Anna Maynard has worked the slow burn to absolute explosive romance. Was thrilled to read this as well as Dancing with Bees
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