The Faith in Flowers

Poppy Creek #5

by Rachael Bloome

An extravagant wedding to plan. A blossoming childhood crush. And a secret ready to uproot everything...

When event planner Olivia Parker heads home to help with her brother’s wedding, she decides to keep her painful divorce a secret so she doesn’t ruin his big day.

Easier said than done when her feelings for a childhood friend start to blossom into something more…

Flower farmer Reed Hollis has never forgotten the only woman who ever captured his heart. He also hasn’t forgotten that she’s very, very married.

Burying his emotions along with his tulip bulbs, he decides to keep his distance while she’s in town.

Not a bad plan. Until he’s roped into helping with the wedding.

As the two work together, can they overcome their deep-rooted fears and painful secrets? Or will their budding romance wither on the vine?

Genres: Romance, Fiction, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Clean Romance, Adult Fiction, Contemporary Romance

206 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 31, 2021

Reviews

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful story. I loved the characters in this story. They were sweet and down to earth. They each had struggles that we all can relate to. I love all of Rachael Bloome’s books. She is an exceptional writer and each of her stories have a way of pulling you in. And I love the Poppy Creek series. I do recommend reading them in order. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series!

[Susan Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

just beautiful

Reed and Olivia’s story is a beautiful addition to the Poppy Creek series. As I devour each book, each one gets better. I think that’s partly because I’m now invested in this whole wonderful community, the couples (young and old) who live in the town of Poppy Creek!

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is fifth in the Poppy Creek series, and is the story of old friends getting back together and becoming lovers. Like others in this series it's a sweet story with undertones of faith without being too much in your face.

[Mylie McKissack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story! Loved it!

[Penny Leidecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so impressed with this series. Rachael Bloome has created a fantastic, clean series that really pulls at your heartstrings. The Faith in Flowers was no exception. Reed has been in love with her for years, but he never revealed his feelings to her. The one time he was going to, he was too late and he saw another man proposing. He figures he’s lost his chance to be with the love of his life. Then, Olivia returns to Poppy Creek, but she’s keeping secrets. What are those secrets you ask? No spoilers, but I highly recommend this beautiful story so you can find out. I loved catching up with the previous characters we’ve met and come to love, from the previous books. Readers, do yourselves a favor and grab this book. You won’t be disappointed.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review, but I’ve got my paperback ordered.

[BethanyKate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another heartwarming story in quaint little Poppy Creek. Was the plot the same as the others? Yes. Did I know exactly what was going to happen throughout? Yes. Did I care? Nope! I love the characters in this series so much, that knowing what will happen doesn't bother me. Maybe it's because I'm reading this during the Christmas season, that I just want the best for everyone, real or fictional. On to the 6th and final book. I'm sure going to miss these characters :(

[Melissa-ann Strausser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 5 in the series. Excellent!!

[Peggy Clayton · Rating 4 out of 5]

This print book has a beautiful cover on the front. The story goes right along with it as I really liked it. Rachael hit the ball out the the right field line for a triple!

[Gaylen Matlock · Rating 4 out of 5]

They are getting predictable, but there's only a few more left so I'll finish it up. I love the small town vibe and I wish it still existed in America somewhere.

[Kathleen Benedict · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good. This series keeps getting better. I love how they keep all the characters from the previous books.

[Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always eagerly anticipate the new books in Rachael Bloome's Poppy Creek series, and I honestly cannot even pick a favorite as each individual story is just that good. I had a feeling Reed and Olivia's story was going to be heart wrenching, and I absolutely loved how this one is both a second chance romance story and also, a redemption story at the same time. Right from the first page I could barely bring myself to put it down, and it was the perfect thing to bring a little joy into the dreary, cold day I chose to read it on.

I absolutely love how Rachael has given each one of the characters in this series a unique voice, and I always enjoy reading about their particular career paths. In this installment, the reader gets to hear intricate details about flowers; as Reed runs a flower shop. And we also get to hear about Olivia's event planning, and the lovely attention to detail she puts into every single event.

Reed and Olivia's friendship is truly beautiful, and I love how it first started when they were children, and ended up turning into something more. I also loved how healing and brokenness are not skimmed over in this one-both Reed and Olivia are nursing hurts that need to be brought out into the open, and this entire process while heartbreaking was also authentic and real and made me connect even more to the characters.

I truly adore this series, and I love how the characters are all basically one big family. They truly care about each other, and are always quick to welcome newcomers into their midst.

I couldn't have enjoyed this one any more, and it was everything I could have possibly hoped for. I love the fact that Rachael Bloome always includes a sweet epilogue introducing readers to the couple that will be featured in the next installment, and I truly now cannot wait to read book six!

Final Rating: 5/5.

Definitely pick this one up if you're a fan of sweet romance. Poppy Creek has become one of my all time favorite series, and I can pretty much guarantee it will also for anyone who chooses to take the time to read it!

Thanks so much to Rachael Bloome for allowing me to advance read and review this!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review as part of her review team. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Shanna Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Faith in Flowers is the most beautiful book I have read all year (which is saying something since I have read over 80 books so far). I couldn't put it down, and never wanted it to end. Author Rachael Bloome has a lovely way of making every moment magical, like you are living it yourself or watching it as a movie playing just for you. A lot of romance books focus solely in the main couple. However, in this book (and all Bloomes other books) each person is shown well, showing the lives, thoughts, and feelings of even side characters. Everyone in her books is important and plays a part. You get to know each character so well, they become like friends and family.

This book was filled with beautiful surprises, emotional moments, and everything in between. The best part about Rachel Bloomes books is that you close the book feeling better about life and with new insight on pure happiness. This is something magical I have only ever found in her stories and I hope to continue finding that in hers in the future. She truly encompasses what it is like to live in a small and loving town where everyone cares for everyone, even if they don't always get along every moment. This book, along with the rest in this series show such fun stories and people's lives, but also show real situations and tragedies that people go through. They are real, beautiful, and truly breath taking.

It was wonderful to experience this book through Olivia and Reeds perspectives and learn more about what makes each of them who they are, even the heartbreaking moments. I love the meaning of The Faith In Flowers, definately highlighted a few things when it came into play.

[Belinda Mann]

Reed and Olivia have become my favorite couple so far in Poppy Creek. Both adorable. Reed Hollis owns a flower nursery-greenhouse and Olivia Parker is an event planner who has been living in New York since leaving Poppy Creek to pursue her career and marrying rich, spoiled socialite Steven
Rockford 111. Olivia comes back to Poppy Creek to help with her brother Grant's elaborate wedding to Eliza Carter and has a big secret she doesn't want anyone to know about for fear it would take the joy out of the wedding. Reed has always had a crush on Olivia since they grew up together in Poppy Creek and when she comes home for the wedding, Reed realizes he is in love with her, but she is married. Reed is doing the landscaping at the wedding venue and Olivia is doing the event planning there and they rekindle their old friendship. Reed has a secret he doesn't want Olivia to know about that could change their lives completely. Reed tries to help Olivia with a problem which has him making a desperate phone call to his estranged father whom he has been angry with for years since his father's unfaithfulness and parent's divorce. There is a surprising twist to this outcome. I wanted Olivia to tell Reed her secret. I wanted to know what Reed had hidden. I loved the rose competition and always the fun activities going on in Poppy Creek, the close-knit town and how everyone comes together to make the activities at the festivals successful. I could definitely live here. Book 5 in the Poppy Creek series and another heartwarming story by Rachael Bloome. A must read. More amazing recipes, too.

[Jennifer Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Faith in Flowers is the fifth book in the Poppy Creek series by Rachael Bloome. Olivia Parker returns home for her brother, Grant’s wedding. She decides to keep her divorce secret so as to not ruin the big day. Confirmed bachelor Reed Hollis has never forgotten the only woman to capture his heart and he also hasn’t forgotten that she is married. Believing Olivia is happily married, he buried himself into cultivating his beautiful blooms and keeping his distance. When the original wedding venue becomes unavailable, Olivia and Reed are brought together to help plan the wedding with a new venue. As the two work together, they are confronted with their feelings as well as their fears and painful secrets. Can their love bloom with a little faith?
I love the Poppy Creek series and The Faith in Flowers is a great addition to it. It is a sweet, clean romance with plenty of heart and the small town charm. A second chance for Olivia and Reed find themselves face to face after so many years and discovering their past feelings are alive and well. I love the themes of love, grace and forgiveness and that even the most beautiful flowers bloom from the dirt. We are not bound to our past mistakes as we build for a brighter future. Reed and Olivia are so sweet as they banter as friends and confide in each other before ultimately confessing their love. I look forward to continuing the series. I highly recommend The Faith in Flowers and the Poppy Creek series.

The Faith in Flowers is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

[Sue Negrillo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Poppy Creek.
Olivia an known event planner in NYC comes home to plan her brothers wedding. What no one knows is she has divorced her husband and he stole her company. As she arrives, Reed her childhood best friend is delivering flowers to her mother’s house. The mother invites him to stay for dinner, Olivia agrees so he does. He has never stopped loving her and wants to stay away because she is married.
Olivia goes to the tree they use to hang out in. Someone has built a tree house, she can’t believe it she has to see who it is she walks in with Reed in a towel. She can’t believe Reed built their dream, they always talked about building a tree house. He takes her to his flower farm. She is amazed at all he’s done then he see her favorite rose, she knows he kept it for her. She finally tells him she is divorced and he wants to hold her. He cheers her up by inviting her over to watch a movie up in their tree house with all her favorite snacks, they end up falling asleep… they spent more and more time together.
Reed goes to his father and asks for help in getting her company back. They had looked at the property next to his farm it would make a perfect event place. Her ex gives her money so she buys the property and they tell each other they love each other.

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters in this book were so heartwarming. I could realy relate to Olivia's character because she seemed so realistic. She wanted to be loved and liked and because of her past she was not very confident. I enjoyed watching her change and grow like a flower in this book.

I also liked how Olivia's relationship with her mother changed for the better and they were finally able to talk and understand each other. I was so glad that Ben finally got to let Olivia know how he felt and that he was able to mend his relationship with his dad. His home sounded beautiful!

I thoroughly enjoyed the title and many plant metaphors in this book, especially about faith and hope. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Maria Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story dealt with serious things but the romance was light and Hallmark-eques. Unfortunately, much of the angst came simply because of the lack of communication. Lots of lies through omission. Liv has some serious personal issues mostly dealing with her own self confidence. She got a lot of junk both in the form of school bullies and her mother's behavior. It was sad but that is what caused her self worth to plummet to all but nothing. And her ex-husband was a real louse.
Reed was great and supportive. It is too had that there were years of no association. I was happy for their reunion though. I was also happy to see the support she got from people around her in her home town. Very loving people.
Sweet and low angst read

No sex, language or violence

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author for my honest review. This novel deals with the self worth and self esteem of Olivia. She returns to Poppy Creek to coordinate her brother’s wedding. Olivia has many secrets she has kept hidden from her family. Her brother’s best friend, Reed, is her childhood friend. The depth of their attraction turned love is built on love and grace. Christian values are sprinkled throughout. There are many subplots included which could become another book. This is book 5 in the series. I haven’t read the others yet. Time to do some ordering! Highly recommend!

[Nadira Syahidah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always love the enchanting ambience of Poppy Creek and their small yet caring community. I wish I could find a place just like Poppy Creek. It'd be the perfect place to stay and create some memories.

It seems the number of bachelor and bachelorette keeps decreasing in this alluring town. And it's time for Reed and Olivia to find the love of their life. Although it's a thin book, but I enjoy the whole story and it's the perfect one to accompany me while I'm on the passenger seat on the way to office.

There's no much to say, it's not like the best book with super exciting story and characters, but it's just enough to warm my heart. And it feels great.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how Bloom whisks is away to a small town full of checkers I want to tour Reeds home. It sSounds amazing! Bloom incorporates many many characters from previous books into the story. You may want to do a quick reread if you have not read them in a while. I hope one day we get the short story of Reed’s parents. I’ll just leave that right there I don’t want to spoil it for anything .I love how the friendship between Reed and Olivia quickly returns after so many years apart. You will quickly find they will always have each other‘s back‘s. I am happy to see that karma find Secretary , again I won’t spoil it but it needed to happen . I stayed up late tonight‘s in a row just so I can finish the book because I didn’t want to put it down. I truly hope you all enjoyed as much as I did.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Faith in Flowers is a wonderful, uplifting, spring gift. I was delighted to return to Poppy Cove and see all the new beginnings and second chances in this wonderful romance. I love Olivia's courage and Reed's support of her. The book is a good reminder that we need to love ourselves before we can hope to love others and be truly successful. I love a series because these characters become my book family. I love catching up with the townspeople and watching this second chance romance develop. I could not put it down.

[Amy Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful book by Rachael Bloome. If you love clean romances that feel like you are right there living with the characters, this is for you. I would always recommend starting at the very beginning of the series so you can grow with each book as each book paints a picture of a wonderful town. I was not able to put this book down and may have lost sleep while finishing it up. Reed and Olivia's story quickly drew me in and as always the outcome of the story and how it all came together didn't fail to disappoint. Can't wait for the next book to come out!

[Savannah Hendricks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia and Reed’s romance is realistic and perfect in its own way. I truly enjoy each time I’m taken back to Poppy Creek and get to soak my mind into the town. The heart in which Ms. Bloome writes is beautiful and poignant. Her characters and the way she weaves them together make the reader appreciate every word. Ms. Bloome's ability to right about Olivia’s self-doubt is on point and complements the relationship with Reed. It takes great talent to write a clean romance that leaves a lasting impression and inspiration to its readers.

[Debbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this Poppy Creek series. This the 5th in the series and I still can’t get enough of this town and the wonderful people in it. This one is about Olivia, Grant’s sister, and Reed. They were friends when they were younger and then Olivia moved to New York. She’s come home to help with Eliza & Grant’s wedding. She’s keeping a secret, but things begin to change once she’s been home. Reed has a secret too. I’m completely hooked on this sweet, romantic series, I can’t wait to dive into the next one and escape reality for awhile. Well done!

[Readsandeats · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was so ncie to be back in Poppy Creek.
This story follows Olivia and Reed. Olivia is back home to help Grant and Elisa get their wedding organised. She has secrets that she doesn't want to tell her family until the wedding os over.
Olivia and Reed are drawn back to each other as they both help get the wedding venue set up. As Olivai spends time back home and with Reed she wonders if she wants to move home permanetly.

I loved the characters, the setting and the way Rachael writes.
This is a great series and I am looking forward to the next book.

[Katherine Horvath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reconnecting!

The Faith in Flowers: I liked that Olivia had come home and she reconnected with Reed her best friend and first secret love. They worked well getting the wedding together for Eliza and Grant. They were always a team and then she went to New York and she met Steven in collage and they day for a bit Ang were engaged and got married. She thought things were great until they weren't. He took everything from her. She went home to think and be a wedding planner for her big brother. She felt more alive then she had in a long time. It was a great story!

[Jacquie Stricklind · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reed and Olivia both have a secret, they both love each other. Olivia comes back to her home to help with her brother, Grant's wedding. Reed has always thought about Olivia but since she is married, he wants to avoid seeing her. Olivia is scared to tell her parents or anybody else that she is divorced and has lost her business in New York. Will Reed and her parents be able to reach her, so she can tell them the truth. Will Reed tell Olivia his true feelings for her? Read this really good book to find out.

[Kari Slade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Childhood Friends Reconnect

In some ways this is a hard read. Olivia's first husband is a controlling manipulator. It is hard watching Olivia blame herself for things that are not her fault. It is, however, lovely to see the town of Poppy Creek take her in and heal her. They teach her that she is worthy of love. Reed, of course, is her biggest fan, but realizes she needs time to love herself before she can move on from her past. This is a sweet read about forgiveness of self and others, faith, healing, and love.

[Emily Dill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opening up a new book from Rachael Bloome feels like treating myself to a yummy pastry or a hot chocolate. I’d move to her precious Poppy Creek in a heartbeat if it existed in real life! If you haven’t started this series yet, go find book one right now. This addition to the series flushes out two characters, one new and one we’ve seen around town for a while. There’s romance and flowers and lattes and small town festivals and friendship and forgiveness. What more could you ask for?

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable

A clean, sweet story of redemption, hope, new beginnings and a couple of HEAs. I didn’t like the way Olivia still had so much self-doubt, even as an adult. Because of it, she let people walk all over it. But she overcomes all of that with help from Reed and her new friends. She also finds out there were others who looked up to her in high school, which might have helped her back then if she had known. Eagerly looking forward to the next book.