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Rendezvous Falls #4
Love Blooms
It’s never too late for a second chance…
Tonight should be the best night of Lucy Higgins’s life. Tomorrow she’s finally marrying Owen Cooper. She’s been waiting to start a life of wedded bliss, like the happy marriage her parents have. Except…she just learned her parents are divorcing and she’s freaking out. Owen has been so distant lately, shutting her out. Suddenly this big wedding seems like a really bad idea. Packing up her car, Lucy bolts for Rendezvous Falls and finds work at a flower shop while she gets her life together. The last thing she expects is for Owen to show up, wanting her back.
Owen Cooper’s carefully planned out life is ready to begin. He’s home from the military to join the family business and marry the sweet girl who captured his heart…until Lucy runs out on him. That was not part of the plan. Armed with an article that promises to help him win her back, Owen heads to Rendezvous Falls. But from the moment he sees her again, she seems…different. Happier, more confident and at ease. Can he convince this new version of Lucy that he’s become the man she deserves? He might need a little help from the local book club to accomplish this mission…
Tonight should be the best night of Lucy Higgins’s life. Tomorrow she’s finally marrying Owen Cooper. She’s been waiting to start a life of wedded bliss, like the happy marriage her parents have. Except…she just learned her parents are divorcing and she’s freaking out. Owen has been so distant lately, shutting her out. Suddenly this big wedding seems like a really bad idea. Packing up her car, Lucy bolts for Rendezvous Falls and finds work at a flower shop while she gets her life together. The last thing she expects is for Owen to show up, wanting her back.
Owen Cooper’s carefully planned out life is ready to begin. He’s home from the military to join the family business and marry the sweet girl who captured his heart…until Lucy runs out on him. That was not part of the plan. Armed with an article that promises to help him win her back, Owen heads to Rendezvous Falls. But from the moment he sees her again, she seems…different. Happier, more confident and at ease. Can he convince this new version of Lucy that he’s become the man she deserves? He might need a little help from the local book club to accomplish this mission…
- GenresRomanceContemporary
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2021
About the author
Jo McNally
70 books264 followersI write the same kind of romances I like to read – stories about characters facing real-life challenges with real-life consequences. The stories are emotional, but still have humor, and love always finds a way to pull the characters through together.
I live in coastal North Carolina with 100 pounds of dog and 200 pounds of husband – my slice of the bed is very small. When I’m not writing or reading romance novels (or clinging to the edge of the bed…), I can often be found on the back porch sipping wine with friends while listening to an eclectic playlist. If the weather is absolutely perfect, I might join my husband on the golf course, where I always feel far more competitive than my actual skill-level would suggest.
I live in coastal North Carolina with 100 pounds of dog and 200 pounds of husband – my slice of the bed is very small. When I’m not writing or reading romance novels (or clinging to the edge of the bed…), I can often be found on the back porch sipping wine with friends while listening to an eclectic playlist. If the weather is absolutely perfect, I might join my husband on the golf course, where I always feel far more competitive than my actual skill-level would suggest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 24, 2022
With the latest book out in this series, I wanted to make sure I reviewed the last book in the series. I'm so bad at getting behind. At first, I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this one. So much happened within the story that pushed me one way and then the next.
This is turning out to be a very hard book to review because I wanted to say so much yet didn't want to give anything away. I always believe it's better when a reader gets to enjoy the moments that make a book so good.
So, for most of the book, I was an Owen supporter. I didn't think he really did much wrong. I understood how Lucy felt but didn't think she handled it very well. Of course, how she handled it made for a good story but it still at times pissed me off.
As the book progresses you start to see both of their sides and also what they've done that doesn't really help a romance. I really didn't blame Lucy for not liking Owen's mother. The woman is horrible. I'd think twice about marrying a man with a mother like that.
There are some really funny moments when they learn about each other. Things they should have known before they decided to get married. If people only talked more to each other and listened when they are being spoken to we'd have happier people.
You'll love how the past characters come together to help these two figures out what they really want. So many good moments along with some bad. You won't really have a ton of romance in this story since it's almost a second chance type of story. But you will have enough of the two main characters that you can feel that they love each other and would be so sad to be without the other person.
I really enjoyed Love Blooms and thought the title for this one is perfect for so many reasons. It really fits the book. I've been loving this series and can't wait to read the next one.
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July 20, 2021
Do you believe in serendipity? I’m going to make a case for it existing. First and foremost, Jo McNally is a wonderful author, despite the fact that I’ve only read her twice. The first book I read by Jo was Stealing Kissing in the Snow, book two of her Rendezvous Falls series. Oil rig worker Logan Taggart and single mom Piper Mongomery burrowed themselves in my heart. Fast forward to book four. There was just something about Love Blooms that kept calling to me. It could have been the amazing cover or the fact that it’s a second chance romance or it could have been that it features a runaway bride. Regardless, I was drawn to the book. Turns out, Logan’s younger sister, Nikki plays a pivotal role in this story. Really, how is it that the two books that just happen to call to me featured the Taggart siblings?
Love Blooms reminds me of Julia Robert’s Runaway Bride. Not that heroine Lucy leaves a trail of broken-hearted men at the altar like Julia’s Maggie did. But each woman lost sight of who they were by pleasing others and agreeing to everything whether they wanted it, liked it, or not. Lucy Higgins should be having the time of her life. It’s the night before her wedding to the love of her life, Owen Cooper, but everything is falling apart. Lucy’s wedding has been hijacked by her future mother-in-law and her simple dream wedding has turned into a large wedding of the year event. Owen isn’t really speaking to her and he’s been distant since returning from Afghanistan and leaving the Army. It’s like he’s a different person. The cherry on top is her parents’ marriage, the one Lucy has always looked to and relied upon as being perfect isn’t. By accident, she finds out her parents have been unhappy for years and are planning on divorcing after her wedding.
Since he was around ten, Owen has known what his parents expected his future to be. The plan has always been that Owen would take over the family business, Cooper Landscaping, after graduating from college and marry a suitable girl, preferably from the country club scene. Instead of following the plan to the tee, Owen decided to drop out of college and join the military. Owen has spent the last eight years of his life serving his country. Five of those years included meeting and falling madly in love with Lucy, who is definitely not part of the country club scene. Lucy has thrown Owen’s world upside down in the best possible way. They are polar opposites. Lucy’s a free spirit and a spur-of-the-moment kind of person. Owen is a rules follower and a planner through and through.
When Lucy blots from Greensboro, North Carolina to Rendevous Falls, New York, Owen realizes where she is and follows her. Armed with his Dr. FindLove app, Owen plans to win Lucy back and return to Greensboro to continue their life together. Owen isn’t prepared for Lucy to keep him at arm’s length and not fall for all the app advice that he believes will help him. It’s a good thing the Rendezvous Falls book club, made up of septuagenarians is around to truly help and guide him.
Love Blooms is a good if not great story. I loved the characters of Lucy and Owen. Every step of the story shows just how much they truly love each other. I loved watching them look within themselves and see what they did to contribute to where they currently find themselves in life. Lucy is a special character, and it’s her attitude and perseverance that allowed her to get through to grumpy Rendezvous Blooms Flower Shop owner, Connie Phelps. I enjoyed getting to know Connie better. Owen is a lovable doofus who means well. He’s even referred to as a cinnamon roll, a little crusty on the outside, but all sweet and soft on the inside. That truly sums him up. The title truly encompasses their relationship. Rendezvous Falls is filled with people who believe in love and want to help out when they can. You know Owen and Lucy are going to have a happy ending to their story. Some things are a little predictable. Some things not so much. People often say the journey is what’s important. For this couple, that statement is beyond true. Their journey to the altar is filled with bumps and sinkholes, but it shows that their love can withstand anything.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Close your eyes and let your heart feel what’s right or wrong.”
“Try to see things clearly before you do something you’ll regret.”
“Sometimes the people who seem to have it the most together are the ones falling apart inside. Be careful about envying or resenting those people, some are just really good actors.”
“The more you try to shape the future, the more elusive it becomes.”
“What’s the saying? Man plans and God laughs.”
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
Love Blooms reminds me of Julia Robert’s Runaway Bride. Not that heroine Lucy leaves a trail of broken-hearted men at the altar like Julia’s Maggie did. But each woman lost sight of who they were by pleasing others and agreeing to everything whether they wanted it, liked it, or not. Lucy Higgins should be having the time of her life. It’s the night before her wedding to the love of her life, Owen Cooper, but everything is falling apart. Lucy’s wedding has been hijacked by her future mother-in-law and her simple dream wedding has turned into a large wedding of the year event. Owen isn’t really speaking to her and he’s been distant since returning from Afghanistan and leaving the Army. It’s like he’s a different person. The cherry on top is her parents’ marriage, the one Lucy has always looked to and relied upon as being perfect isn’t. By accident, she finds out her parents have been unhappy for years and are planning on divorcing after her wedding.
Since he was around ten, Owen has known what his parents expected his future to be. The plan has always been that Owen would take over the family business, Cooper Landscaping, after graduating from college and marry a suitable girl, preferably from the country club scene. Instead of following the plan to the tee, Owen decided to drop out of college and join the military. Owen has spent the last eight years of his life serving his country. Five of those years included meeting and falling madly in love with Lucy, who is definitely not part of the country club scene. Lucy has thrown Owen’s world upside down in the best possible way. They are polar opposites. Lucy’s a free spirit and a spur-of-the-moment kind of person. Owen is a rules follower and a planner through and through.
When Lucy blots from Greensboro, North Carolina to Rendevous Falls, New York, Owen realizes where she is and follows her. Armed with his Dr. FindLove app, Owen plans to win Lucy back and return to Greensboro to continue their life together. Owen isn’t prepared for Lucy to keep him at arm’s length and not fall for all the app advice that he believes will help him. It’s a good thing the Rendezvous Falls book club, made up of septuagenarians is around to truly help and guide him.
Love Blooms is a good if not great story. I loved the characters of Lucy and Owen. Every step of the story shows just how much they truly love each other. I loved watching them look within themselves and see what they did to contribute to where they currently find themselves in life. Lucy is a special character, and it’s her attitude and perseverance that allowed her to get through to grumpy Rendezvous Blooms Flower Shop owner, Connie Phelps. I enjoyed getting to know Connie better. Owen is a lovable doofus who means well. He’s even referred to as a cinnamon roll, a little crusty on the outside, but all sweet and soft on the inside. That truly sums him up. The title truly encompasses their relationship. Rendezvous Falls is filled with people who believe in love and want to help out when they can. You know Owen and Lucy are going to have a happy ending to their story. Some things are a little predictable. Some things not so much. People often say the journey is what’s important. For this couple, that statement is beyond true. Their journey to the altar is filled with bumps and sinkholes, but it shows that their love can withstand anything.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Close your eyes and let your heart feel what’s right or wrong.”
“Try to see things clearly before you do something you’ll regret.”
“Sometimes the people who seem to have it the most together are the ones falling apart inside. Be careful about envying or resenting those people, some are just really good actors.”
“The more you try to shape the future, the more elusive it becomes.”
“What’s the saying? Man plans and God laughs.”
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
August 6, 2021
Amusing, heartwarming, and charming!
Love Blooms is a lighthearted, emotive, second-chance romance that takes you into the life of the confused, stressed-out Lucy Higgins, who after fleeing the church on her wedding day, stops trying to please everyone else, rediscovers passions long forgotten, finds a new place to call home, and works with the one man she left at the altar and who is willing to do whatever it takes to win her back to rediscover happiness, passion, their best selves, and a life they both deserve.
The writing is genuine and fluid. The characters are kind, attentive, and authentic. And the plot is a heartfelt, uplifting blend of friendship, family, introspection, drama, community, tricky situations, romantic gestures, unconditional love, and new beginnings.
Overall, Love Blooms is a big-hearted, engaging, cosy tale by McNally that is another wonderful addition to the Rendezvous Falls series with characters you can’t help but root for and a happy-ever-after ending that leaves you smiling, satisfied, and ready for more.
Thank you to Harlequin Books and Kaye Publicity for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Love Blooms is a lighthearted, emotive, second-chance romance that takes you into the life of the confused, stressed-out Lucy Higgins, who after fleeing the church on her wedding day, stops trying to please everyone else, rediscovers passions long forgotten, finds a new place to call home, and works with the one man she left at the altar and who is willing to do whatever it takes to win her back to rediscover happiness, passion, their best selves, and a life they both deserve.
The writing is genuine and fluid. The characters are kind, attentive, and authentic. And the plot is a heartfelt, uplifting blend of friendship, family, introspection, drama, community, tricky situations, romantic gestures, unconditional love, and new beginnings.
Overall, Love Blooms is a big-hearted, engaging, cosy tale by McNally that is another wonderful addition to the Rendezvous Falls series with characters you can’t help but root for and a happy-ever-after ending that leaves you smiling, satisfied, and ready for more.
Thank you to Harlequin Books and Kaye Publicity for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2022
Runaway bride finds herself
This is definitely going to be a book I recommend. The characters all come to life no mater if you've read all or just one of the Rendezvous Falls series each one captures your attention. Lucy and Owen's
story is sweet and makes you're heart smile as they fall back in love. I loved that there's lots of laughs throughout this book and the members of the book club strike again but in a helpful and happy way. Sometimes you just gotta find yourself and do what makes you happy.
This is definitely going to be a book I recommend. The characters all come to life no mater if you've read all or just one of the Rendezvous Falls series each one captures your attention. Lucy and Owen's
story is sweet and makes you're heart smile as they fall back in love. I loved that there's lots of laughs throughout this book and the members of the book club strike again but in a helpful and happy way. Sometimes you just gotta find yourself and do what makes you happy.
August 14, 2021
Another great Rendezvous Falls book.
I recently read another book about a runaway bride.
I really liked the way this one turned out.
There were several people in the book that were having a hard time with the path of their life.
All were able to change the course in a way that was beneficial to them
I recently read another book about a runaway bride.
I really liked the way this one turned out.
There were several people in the book that were having a hard time with the path of their life.
All were able to change the course in a way that was beneficial to them
July 11, 2021
Lucy Higgins is a runaway bride who ends up in Rondezvous Falls, New York thanks to her best friend Nikki Taggart's help. Nikki is originally from Rondezvous Falls and has family there who run the Taggart Inn. So many things made Lucy runaway from Greensboro, North Carolina; not just Owen and the wedding. It didn't help that Owen seemed like a different guy after his last deployment, but the shock of her parents' impending divorce and her mother's affair contributed as well as Owen's overbearing mother. Lucy finds peace and a job she loves at Rondezvous Blooms. When Owen shows up in Rondezvous Falls Lucy doesn't know what to think. One thing she does know is that she's not ready to go back to Greensboro at this point and maybe she never will be.
Owen Cooper loves Lucy Higgins. He is determined to win his runaway bride back. After he figured out where Lucy disappeared to he set out to prove his love. and goes to Rondezvous Falls. At first he was taking the advice of an app, Dr. Find-Love but then the wonderful people he met in town convinced him that was not the way to go. He needed to think of Lucy's needs and wants and be genuine. After Owen traumatizes Lucy by bringing her a cute kitten as a gift not knowing Lucy was very allergic to cat dander Owen realizes he needs to get to know Lucy better.
Love Blooms by Jo McNally is the fourth book in her Rondezvous Falls series. I have been really enjoying this series up until now. This storyline is interesting. The book is well-written and has great characters. But I lost interest with all the mentions of the pandemic. I read books to escape and be entertained. I don't find the references to the pandemic to be entertaining or an escape. I have spoken to various romance readers and there are two schools of thought on the subject of the pandemic in books. There is the group who think that real life matters in a story and the pandemic is part of real life and should be a part of a realistic story. Then there's the other group who see the story as an escape and don't want to be reminded of the pandemic. Color me a firm believer in the reading for escape group. This story has elements I enjoy reading like dealing with PTSD and family dynamics but the pandemic references threw me out of the narrative. I have read book blurbs that mention trigger warnings about the storyline. I wish authors would indicate pandemic references as a trigger. If I had known this book had a number of pandemic references in the story I would have never purchased it.
Owen Cooper loves Lucy Higgins. He is determined to win his runaway bride back. After he figured out where Lucy disappeared to he set out to prove his love. and goes to Rondezvous Falls. At first he was taking the advice of an app, Dr. Find-Love but then the wonderful people he met in town convinced him that was not the way to go. He needed to think of Lucy's needs and wants and be genuine. After Owen traumatizes Lucy by bringing her a cute kitten as a gift not knowing Lucy was very allergic to cat dander Owen realizes he needs to get to know Lucy better.
Love Blooms by Jo McNally is the fourth book in her Rondezvous Falls series. I have been really enjoying this series up until now. This storyline is interesting. The book is well-written and has great characters. But I lost interest with all the mentions of the pandemic. I read books to escape and be entertained. I don't find the references to the pandemic to be entertaining or an escape. I have spoken to various romance readers and there are two schools of thought on the subject of the pandemic in books. There is the group who think that real life matters in a story and the pandemic is part of real life and should be a part of a realistic story. Then there's the other group who see the story as an escape and don't want to be reminded of the pandemic. Color me a firm believer in the reading for escape group. This story has elements I enjoy reading like dealing with PTSD and family dynamics but the pandemic references threw me out of the narrative. I have read book blurbs that mention trigger warnings about the storyline. I wish authors would indicate pandemic references as a trigger. If I had known this book had a number of pandemic references in the story I would have never purchased it.
July 31, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it
First, while this is a part of a series, you don't have to read the prior stories to enjoy this one. Granted prior couples and secondary characters make multiple appearances throughout, this can be read as a stand-alone.
I really felt for both. Owen returns from his extended tour of duty. He is dealing with some pretty heavy issues from this tour. While Lucy continually questions him, Owen doesn't open up with his feelings. After their wedding, the plan is for Owen to take over his parents' business so his parents can retire. Lucy started to work for the business as well but she isn't happy. She wants to be a florist. She LOVES flowers and arrangements. The night before the wedding, Lucy hears that her parents are divorcing after the wedding. Lucy has other issues (as she is a people-pleaser) but that is the "straw that broke the camel's back"! Combined with Owen's mother hi-jacking the wedding planning into something that is totally opposite of Lucy's simple mountain wedding, Lucy runs. Her BBF is from Rendezvous Falls so Nikki allows Lucy to borrow her more dependable car and sends to Rendezvous Falls, NY. Owen is devastated but his Army buddies help him to come up with a plan to "win" Lucy back.
These two have much to overcome. Between a grand gesture, gifting of a kitten (which the giftee is allergic too), meddling parents, and guilt, this is a book that will grab at the heartstrings.
This is a sexy story so I personally would only recommend to someone over the age of 18.
First, while this is a part of a series, you don't have to read the prior stories to enjoy this one. Granted prior couples and secondary characters make multiple appearances throughout, this can be read as a stand-alone.
I really felt for both. Owen returns from his extended tour of duty. He is dealing with some pretty heavy issues from this tour. While Lucy continually questions him, Owen doesn't open up with his feelings. After their wedding, the plan is for Owen to take over his parents' business so his parents can retire. Lucy started to work for the business as well but she isn't happy. She wants to be a florist. She LOVES flowers and arrangements. The night before the wedding, Lucy hears that her parents are divorcing after the wedding. Lucy has other issues (as she is a people-pleaser) but that is the "straw that broke the camel's back"! Combined with Owen's mother hi-jacking the wedding planning into something that is totally opposite of Lucy's simple mountain wedding, Lucy runs. Her BBF is from Rendezvous Falls so Nikki allows Lucy to borrow her more dependable car and sends to Rendezvous Falls, NY. Owen is devastated but his Army buddies help him to come up with a plan to "win" Lucy back.
These two have much to overcome. Between a grand gesture, gifting of a kitten (which the giftee is allergic too), meddling parents, and guilt, this is a book that will grab at the heartstrings.
This is a sexy story so I personally would only recommend to someone over the age of 18.
August 14, 2021
I have read several of author Jo McNally's books and each one gets better and better! I love her reading style, her characters and her out of the box thinking. The books are one of those no brainer reads that leaves the reader feeling good about themselves and the characters. They often times think about the book long after they have finished.
This one gives us Lucy and Owen and a marriage that Lucy isn't sure is the right one for her. She feels smothered and unable to have an opinion about her own marriage. She leaves town the day before her wedding day and finds herself in a fun, quirky town that makes her happy. It's been awhile since she has felt this way and she finds that she doesn't want to go back home.
Owen isn't ready to give up and follows Lucy much to the dismay of his family. Can Owen convince Lucy that they are meant to be? The readers will laugh out loud at some of the antics in this story and they will also find themselves rooting for the couple to succeed as they just love them together. A must read, feel good book that will leave all readers looking forward to the next book by this author!
Add this to your TBR list and move it to the top - It's going to be one of those books that is quickly added to your favorite's list! Don't hesitate on this one - it's one of my favorites of the summer!!
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng**
This one gives us Lucy and Owen and a marriage that Lucy isn't sure is the right one for her. She feels smothered and unable to have an opinion about her own marriage. She leaves town the day before her wedding day and finds herself in a fun, quirky town that makes her happy. It's been awhile since she has felt this way and she finds that she doesn't want to go back home.
Owen isn't ready to give up and follows Lucy much to the dismay of his family. Can Owen convince Lucy that they are meant to be? The readers will laugh out loud at some of the antics in this story and they will also find themselves rooting for the couple to succeed as they just love them together. A must read, feel good book that will leave all readers looking forward to the next book by this author!
Add this to your TBR list and move it to the top - It's going to be one of those books that is quickly added to your favorite's list! Don't hesitate on this one - it's one of my favorites of the summer!!
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng**
August 13, 2021
LOVE BLOOMS by Jo McNally is the 4th book of the Rendezvous Falls series. Lucy Higgins is freaking out. Her parents are divorcing, her future mother-in-law has taken over her wedding, and her fiancé, Owen Cooper, home from the military, is not the man she once loved. What does the bride do? She runs, leaving the groom at the altar, and bolts to Rendezvous Falls and finds work in a flower shop while she pulls herself together. With plans of his own, Owen heads to Rendezvous Falls to bring Lucy back, but from the moment he sees her again, she seems…different. Happier, more confident and at ease. Can he convince this new version of Lucy that he’s become the man she deserves? The local book club is more than willing to help him accomplish his mission. LOVE BLOOMS is a metaphor because like a flower, love blooms stronger than ever when Owen and Lucy fall in love all over again—along with a little help from the gang of Rendezvous Falls. Jo McNally once again breathes life into the lovable characters and makes this small-town romance a heartwarming and romantic tale. I received this copy from the author, and this is my honest review.
August 20, 2021
This book is part of a series that can totally be read as a stand alone. I have thoroughly enjoyed every book in this series! This book is a little different from any I have ever read before. Lucy is getting ready to walk down the aisle. She is sitting at a bar celebrating with her friends and family for her bachelorette party and she is not happy. She is making a mistake. She decides to run! Away from her fiancé, away from her family and away from Greensboro!
Owen is fresh from the military and has memories he is trying to escape and family obligations he’d rather avoid but he didn’t know his bride to be was going to leave him standing at the alter! What happened? Where did she go? How can I get her back? These are all the things going through his head!
This book is about personal growth and maturity. The growth and reshaping of this relationship was a joy to read. This book was beautifully written and it also teaches us that it is better to open up about your feelings, your wants and needs and to always stand up for yourself no matter your age or situation!
I highly recommend this book!
Owen is fresh from the military and has memories he is trying to escape and family obligations he’d rather avoid but he didn’t know his bride to be was going to leave him standing at the alter! What happened? Where did she go? How can I get her back? These are all the things going through his head!
This book is about personal growth and maturity. The growth and reshaping of this relationship was a joy to read. This book was beautifully written and it also teaches us that it is better to open up about your feelings, your wants and needs and to always stand up for yourself no matter your age or situation!
I highly recommend this book!
December 17, 2021
Lucy has always been the one who cared about other people, but she's hit the end of her rope the night before her wedding. Oh, she loves Owen Cooper. At least she thought she did, but she can't do it--not in the frou-frou dress picked out by Owen's mother and not in front of 300+ guests, most of whom she doesn't even know. So... she flees in her BFF's car to the lovely little town of Rendezvous Falls.
Before long, she manages to get herself a part-time job with the local florist and boy does it feel good not to be in Greensboro anymore. Just as she's settling in, determined to be more than the "runaway bride," who should show up but Owen, who is just as determined to win her back. He's going to use an app that guarantees he'll win her back.
Only trouble with that is Lucy finds out and knows she has to confront not only her almost-in-laws, but also what she was running from before she can run back to Owen. But will he understand? He's not a bad guy, just stupid like most men... On the other hand, there are those pesky interfering ladies of a certain age who set him straight...
A tale perfect for a stormy night (or even one not so stormy).
Before long, she manages to get herself a part-time job with the local florist and boy does it feel good not to be in Greensboro anymore. Just as she's settling in, determined to be more than the "runaway bride," who should show up but Owen, who is just as determined to win her back. He's going to use an app that guarantees he'll win her back.
Only trouble with that is Lucy finds out and knows she has to confront not only her almost-in-laws, but also what she was running from before she can run back to Owen. But will he understand? He's not a bad guy, just stupid like most men... On the other hand, there are those pesky interfering ladies of a certain age who set him straight...
A tale perfect for a stormy night (or even one not so stormy).
August 24, 2021
Fantastic new addition to Jo’s Rendezvous Series! It’s a runaway bride story between a former
Military vet & florist! What I’d like to say is that this book was very well written! I think the author did an excellent job with the LUCY & OWENS character flaws& unresolved issues! These two poor souls were both so broken that their journey to discover one another on a new level was so heartwarming and fun! You could almost feel their inner “Uh Huh “ moments!
I found this to be very realistic & entertaining with all the new friendships that were being formed
In NY while Owen was pursuing her . You can’t help
But root for these two to find their HEA & the intimacy between them definitely had me interested & curious how they kept moving forward! It really is a feel good read & revisiting all the other characters was just so much fun ! Highly recommended for those
Who enjoy a runaway bride story with great characters & scenery! Also the modern day mentions
& events during the story made this entertaining & unforgettable ❤️🥰👍🏻📚
Military vet & florist! What I’d like to say is that this book was very well written! I think the author did an excellent job with the LUCY & OWENS character flaws& unresolved issues! These two poor souls were both so broken that their journey to discover one another on a new level was so heartwarming and fun! You could almost feel their inner “Uh Huh “ moments!
I found this to be very realistic & entertaining with all the new friendships that were being formed
In NY while Owen was pursuing her . You can’t help
But root for these two to find their HEA & the intimacy between them definitely had me interested & curious how they kept moving forward! It really is a feel good read & revisiting all the other characters was just so much fun ! Highly recommended for those
Who enjoy a runaway bride story with great characters & scenery! Also the modern day mentions
& events during the story made this entertaining & unforgettable ❤️🥰👍🏻📚
August 27, 2021
It’s the day before Lucy’s wedding to her fiance, Owen and she’s just realized - she doesn’t want any of it. The big wedding that was forced upon her, Owen’s family business that’s been thrusted upon her, and she barely recognizes Owen since he returned from the war. So she runs away - but Owen is desperate to get her back.
This was definitely a cute, hallmark style romance. The town where Lucy runs away to is a charming, small town in upstate New York that has all the small town vibes. It made me want to watch Gilmore Girls all over again.
Except the lack of communication between all the characters was frustrating. Plus, I kept wishing that Lucy would realize that yes, she had been treated like while she had lived at home, but she needed to do some soul searching too.
Also, there wasn’t a ton of diversity in this book. I think the other tried, but there was a ton of room for improvement there.
This was definitely a cute, hallmark style romance. The town where Lucy runs away to is a charming, small town in upstate New York that has all the small town vibes. It made me want to watch Gilmore Girls all over again.
Except the lack of communication between all the characters was frustrating. Plus, I kept wishing that Lucy would realize that yes, she had been treated like while she had lived at home, but she needed to do some soul searching too.
Also, there wasn’t a ton of diversity in this book. I think the other tried, but there was a ton of room for improvement there.
February 10, 2022
Love Blooms my Jo McNally is book 4 of The Rendezvous Falls series. It is a second chance novel between Owen Cooper and Lucy Higgins. Lucy is tired of pleasing everyone and feeling invisible, the morning of her wedding she runs to Rendezvous Falls with the help of her best friend Nikki. Owen realizes he hasn’t been the man she needs and followed her to New York to win her back. While this was a lighthearted read, it was packed with emotions. Feelings of unworthiness, not being heard, and PTSD was written with such insight and care it had you rooting for Lucy and Owen. I further enjoyed how characters from her previous books were woven into the storyline. While some other readers where upset that the pandemic was mentioned, it did not bother me.
July 18, 2021
It's the night before the wedding, it should be the happiest time of her life, but seeing her parents talk about divorce, pushed Lucy Higgins over the edge. The stress of planning the wedding the way her future mother in law wants, switching job to the family business, and then finally getting her fiance back, who is nothing like before, it was just too much.
The next morning she ran in her best friend's car to a small town in New York. She finds a job, friends, and home. Running is something she does very well. But Owen her former fiance is not ready to give up so easily. He moves to the town, her town for a month, determined to win her back, to convince her to go back.
The problem with running is that you never calm down and while it makes the romance hot, it does do well with friendship, companionship. The more Owen and Lucy talk, the more they realize that they don't even know each other. But the time has come to make a choice, follow your own heart or do what you are supposed to do.
It's a lovely story, about the second chance, about the importance of listening to yourself first. It's romantic and cute, set in a beautiful little town, I would love to live in. :)
received from NetGalley
The next morning she ran in her best friend's car to a small town in New York. She finds a job, friends, and home. Running is something she does very well. But Owen her former fiance is not ready to give up so easily. He moves to the town, her town for a month, determined to win her back, to convince her to go back.
The problem with running is that you never calm down and while it makes the romance hot, it does do well with friendship, companionship. The more Owen and Lucy talk, the more they realize that they don't even know each other. But the time has come to make a choice, follow your own heart or do what you are supposed to do.
It's a lovely story, about the second chance, about the importance of listening to yourself first. It's romantic and cute, set in a beautiful little town, I would love to live in. :)
received from NetGalley
July 19, 2021
Lucy's life gets turned upside down when she finds out her parents are divorcing. All she ever wanted was to fall in love, get married, and have a love like they have. Suddenly, Lucy is questioning everything and the last she can think of going through with her own wedding...
Overall, Love Blooms was an interesting read. I enjoyed the characters and their story. I thought the storyline was unique and entertaining. I thought Lucy and Owen were great together, but definitely had some issues to work through.
* I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Overall, Love Blooms was an interesting read. I enjoyed the characters and their story. I thought the storyline was unique and entertaining. I thought Lucy and Owen were great together, but definitely had some issues to work through.
* I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
August 1, 2021
I just loved the story about Lucy. She was so used to being understanding that when she had enough it was time to go. She had enough so she took off on her wedding day. Can't say that I blame her.
Loved the book club and the characters of the story. Sometimes they made me laugh and sometimes the story had a sad twist but it keeps you engaged and you can't put the book down. I think you will enjoy reading it as much as I did.
Loved the book club and the characters of the story. Sometimes they made me laugh and sometimes the story had a sad twist but it keeps you engaged and you can't put the book down. I think you will enjoy reading it as much as I did.
August 12, 2021
Good continuation of this series. I have not read the entire series but I fully understood everything happening in this book. So, while I believe reading an entire series is always beneficial and gives background to the other books in the series, these books can be read independently.
The story is simple and predictable, which is fine to me. Sometimes I enjoy a book for an easy escape from real life with a story that I can dive into and not think about, just go with the flow.
The story is simple and predictable, which is fine to me. Sometimes I enjoy a book for an easy escape from real life with a story that I can dive into and not think about, just go with the flow.
August 16, 2021
Delightful romance. Lucy just ran away from her wedding to Owen. She takes her friend, Nikki's car to Rendezvous Falls. She needs to take control of her life and take care of herself. What she doesn't expect, is for Owen to come chasing after her. Great storyline and characters.
I was given a copy of the book by the author for an honest review.
I was given a copy of the book by the author for an honest review.
July 26, 2021
Good escapism and a sweet romance. I had fan and rooted for the characters, the plot was a bit predictable but I liked it.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
July 4, 2022
This is a very emotional story that I would categorize as womens fiction with a blend of romance. The journey and growth of the female MC is central to the story development. Get ready for an angst filled roller coaster 😉
Thank you for the opportunity to review.
Thank you for the opportunity to review.
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July 1, 2021Categories
Contemporary Romance, Small Town & Rural Fiction
Miniseries
Rendezvous Falls (Book #4)
Contemporary Romance, Small Town & Rural Fiction
Miniseries
Rendezvous Falls (Book #4)
August 15, 2021
3.5 stars
August 25, 2021
Very good book. I really liked how the story unfolded with Lucy and Owen. Love how everything played out with his parents.
September 7, 2021
I loved the plot of this book but it needs some serious editing!
November 2, 2021
a second chance romance where I thought it was worthwhile for the protagonists to distance themselves for a while and then come back and love each other more strongly.
July 3, 2022
Loved it!
March 5, 2023
This was my 'blind date with a book" from the library. It was an easy read, and written well. It kept my attention and I wanted to continue reading it.
July 31, 2024
Het is een lekker vakantie boek, t leest makkelijk.
Wel gewoon super voorspelbaar verhaal
Wel gewoon super voorspelbaar verhaal
May 12, 2024
This is a perfect fit for readers who adore heartwarming, lighthearted romance stories about second chances, self-discovery, and the power of love, as they will be swept away by the emotional journey of Lucy and Owen as they navigate the ups and downs of relationships and find their true selves.
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