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Idle Bloom
**This book contains explicit sexual content and language.
"What lies beneath my veiled perfection is the ugly truth—my truth, my reality, my destiny."
Vivian Graham has an acceptance letter into Harvard, a badass tattoo, loyal friends, ties to marijuana, a penchant for Dunkin’ Donuts, and her pesky V-card.
Everyday she takes the Red Line to her job at The Green Pot in Boston while her friends enter the coveted, black iron gates to higher learning. The ramifications from a tragic accident have put her life on hold while time marches on for everyone around her.
After graduating from Harvard Law, Boston native, Oliver Konrad, moves to Portland to start his career and his life. Three years later, after a horrific discovery, he returns home to trade in his three-piece suit for leather work boots and his suburban home for a condo in Cambridge.
All he brought back to the East Coast was an aversion to pillows and secrets he keeps hidden behind a mysterious locked door. Oliver’s days are predictable and his nights are lonely until he meets Vivian on the subway. Her long raven hair, green eyes, and mile-long legs are achingly sexy, but the way she "innocently" fingers and licks her Boston Kreme doughnut can only be described in two words—complete torture.
When their paths cross at every turn, laughter is abundant, friendship is easy, and love is unintentional. However, their future seems improbable.
"What lies beneath my veiled perfection is the ugly truth—my truth, my reality, my destiny."
Vivian Graham has an acceptance letter into Harvard, a badass tattoo, loyal friends, ties to marijuana, a penchant for Dunkin’ Donuts, and her pesky V-card.
Everyday she takes the Red Line to her job at The Green Pot in Boston while her friends enter the coveted, black iron gates to higher learning. The ramifications from a tragic accident have put her life on hold while time marches on for everyone around her.
After graduating from Harvard Law, Boston native, Oliver Konrad, moves to Portland to start his career and his life. Three years later, after a horrific discovery, he returns home to trade in his three-piece suit for leather work boots and his suburban home for a condo in Cambridge.
All he brought back to the East Coast was an aversion to pillows and secrets he keeps hidden behind a mysterious locked door. Oliver’s days are predictable and his nights are lonely until he meets Vivian on the subway. Her long raven hair, green eyes, and mile-long legs are achingly sexy, but the way she "innocently" fingers and licks her Boston Kreme doughnut can only be described in two words—complete torture.
When their paths cross at every turn, laughter is abundant, friendship is easy, and love is unintentional. However, their future seems improbable.
468 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2014
1123 people are currently reading
3033 people want to read
About the author
Jewel E. Ann
59 books10.7k followersJewel is a Wall Street Journal & USA Today best selling author with a quirky sense of humor. When she's not saving the planet one tree at a time, you can find her role modeling questionable behavior to her three boys, binge-watching Netflix with her husband, and writing mind-bending romance.
Her newest release is The Homemaker, a contemporary romance.
Upcoming Projects: The Muse, book 2 in the Chain of Lakes Series coming in May.
Stay in the loop by subscribing to her newsletter!—> Sign up here!
Her newest release is The Homemaker, a contemporary romance.
Upcoming Projects: The Muse, book 2 in the Chain of Lakes Series coming in May.
Stay in the loop by subscribing to her newsletter!—> Sign up here!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 484 reviews
December 17, 2018
*****FIVE STARS*****
AMAZING!
I’m so happy I finally got the chance to read this one!!
🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
AMAZING!
I’m so happy I finally got the chance to read this one!!
🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
May 29, 2018
Idle Bloom is emotion. It’s in every word and whatever action and choices the characters Vivian and Oliver make. Damn how I loved Vivian. She’s hilarious and had so much heart. Her donuts addiction and her aversion to underwear are already memorable scenes to me. Oliver made me swoon the moment he and Vivian locked eyes on the subway. I was immediately intrigued with what they both were hiding. What’s on Vivian’s back and what’s behind that locked door in Oliver’s house? I couldn’t wait to find out and along the way these two people fall head over heels in love. It was intense, hot as hell and funny.
Yes, Vivian is a quirky, intelligent and funny young woman and she affects the people around her with her personality. Oliver is a man with traumatic past and hides it from Vivian. I enjoyed how they both tried to navigate through a new relationship and also with Oliver’s past which has caught up with him. It affects them both tremendously.
I loved Idle Bloom! This story took a hold on me thanks to Vivian, Oliver, her friend Alex and Oliver’s brother Chance. It’s about love, friendship and forgiveness. Another gem from Jewel E. Ann.
5 BadAssDirtyDonutsStars
Yes, Vivian is a quirky, intelligent and funny young woman and she affects the people around her with her personality. Oliver is a man with traumatic past and hides it from Vivian. I enjoyed how they both tried to navigate through a new relationship and also with Oliver’s past which has caught up with him. It affects them both tremendously.
I loved Idle Bloom! This story took a hold on me thanks to Vivian, Oliver, her friend Alex and Oliver’s brother Chance. It’s about love, friendship and forgiveness. Another gem from Jewel E. Ann.
5 BadAssDirtyDonutsStars
July 15, 2015
2.5 Stars
I wish I can say that I loved this book. It had every ingredient for a perfect 5 star read for me. It started out great and had me absolutely glued to the pages practically salivating for any and all hints about both MCs' history. The set up and the mystery about their past was very intriguing. Unfortunately the further into the book I got, the more frustrated I became not only with the story but with the characters as well. I've read some pretty batty heroines in the past, but I'm thinking that Vivian just may take the cake on that.
It's extremely difficult to put into my review exactly why this book didn't work for me without revealing some intricate plot spoilers, so I'll attempt to be as vague as possible. The writing was great, and I'd happily read this author's future books.
Let me start by what I liked:
Oliver
He was one of the sweetest and most endearing heroes. I absolutely loved him. My heart broke for him and his internal struggles. When the true extent of his history is revealed, it was incredibly heart breaking. Really hits you right in the feels.
The story (most of it anyway)
It was unique and unlike any I've read in a while. Which is what I mean about this book having all the right ingredients for a 5 star read.
Unfortunately there were 3 very big things that kept that from happening. So onto what didn't work for me:
Vivian's history
The way that everything is presented to the reader makes you think that she's hiding some sort of deep dark secret. Or at least that's the thought that passed through my head when I read this intro:
Maybe that was my mistake? I'm not sure. Whatever it may be I was really let down when the whys and whats were finally revealed. It just seemed like all this build up....for that.
If you're curious about what it is, pm me. It is a huge spoiler so I won't put it into my review.
Vivian's history and true connection to Kai
I can look past a lot, and I mean A LOT. But this was an epic case of 'what the fuckery' that wouldn't make sense for the life me. This is not really a spoiler, but I'll spoiler tag it for those that don't want to know anything about the plot (without revealing the secret) Maybe some readers can look past that, forgive it, understand it...whichever. I was not one of them. Not even a little. If anything this revelation pissed me off so bad I almost wanted to DNF the book.
Vivian's behavior towards Oliver
Here we're supposed to have a somewhat mature heroine...right? She's smart enough to get into Harvard but contradicts that with her juvenile behavior and ridiculous logic. I was OK with this for most of the book, as it was never too bad. Until a particular scene towards the end when Vivian finds out all of Oliver's history. (again, this isn't a plot spoiler, but I'll tag it anyway)
I mean...seriously?!! That was way too OTT for my tastes. Like driving past the OTT line with a mack truck.
Now if you're a reader that can look past the things I've mentioned, you'd really enjoy this book. Truth be said I think this is a book that you will either love...or not. I don't see much middle ground here.
The author wrote an incredibly unique and at times highly emotional story. Unfortunately the 3 things that bothered me absolutely kept me from enjoying it as a whole.
I'm also a reader that has a hard time looking past not liking the heroine. Try as I might, Vivian didn't endear me to her in the least. (Even though I've read much worse heroines in the past)
But please don't let my review or rating deter you from giving this a chance. I'm a very picky reader and I do tend to nitpick when something starts to not work for me in a book.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
I wish I can say that I loved this book. It had every ingredient for a perfect 5 star read for me. It started out great and had me absolutely glued to the pages practically salivating for any and all hints about both MCs' history. The set up and the mystery about their past was very intriguing. Unfortunately the further into the book I got, the more frustrated I became not only with the story but with the characters as well. I've read some pretty batty heroines in the past, but I'm thinking that Vivian just may take the cake on that.
It's extremely difficult to put into my review exactly why this book didn't work for me without revealing some intricate plot spoilers, so I'll attempt to be as vague as possible. The writing was great, and I'd happily read this author's future books.
Let me start by what I liked:
Oliver
He was one of the sweetest and most endearing heroes. I absolutely loved him. My heart broke for him and his internal struggles. When the true extent of his history is revealed, it was incredibly heart breaking. Really hits you right in the feels.
The story (most of it anyway)
It was unique and unlike any I've read in a while. Which is what I mean about this book having all the right ingredients for a 5 star read.
Unfortunately there were 3 very big things that kept that from happening. So onto what didn't work for me:
Vivian's history
The way that everything is presented to the reader makes you think that she's hiding some sort of deep dark secret. Or at least that's the thought that passed through my head when I read this intro:
"What lies beneath my veiled perfection is the ugly truth—my truth, my reality, my destiny."
Maybe that was my mistake? I'm not sure. Whatever it may be I was really let down when the whys and whats were finally revealed. It just seemed like all this build up....for that.
If you're curious about what it is, pm me. It is a huge spoiler so I won't put it into my review.
Vivian's history and true connection to Kai
I can look past a lot, and I mean A LOT. But this was an epic case of 'what the fuckery' that wouldn't make sense for the life me. This is not really a spoiler, but I'll spoiler tag it for those that don't want to know anything about the plot (without revealing the secret) Maybe some readers can look past that, forgive it, understand it...whichever. I was not one of them. Not even a little. If anything this revelation pissed me off so bad I almost wanted to DNF the book.
Vivian's behavior towards Oliver
Here we're supposed to have a somewhat mature heroine...right? She's smart enough to get into Harvard but contradicts that with her juvenile behavior and ridiculous logic. I was OK with this for most of the book, as it was never too bad. Until a particular scene towards the end when Vivian finds out all of Oliver's history. (again, this isn't a plot spoiler, but I'll tag it anyway)
I mean...seriously?!! That was way too OTT for my tastes. Like driving past the OTT line with a mack truck.
Now if you're a reader that can look past the things I've mentioned, you'd really enjoy this book. Truth be said I think this is a book that you will either love...or not. I don't see much middle ground here.
The author wrote an incredibly unique and at times highly emotional story. Unfortunately the 3 things that bothered me absolutely kept me from enjoying it as a whole.
I'm also a reader that has a hard time looking past not liking the heroine. Try as I might, Vivian didn't endear me to her in the least. (Even though I've read much worse heroines in the past)
But please don't let my review or rating deter you from giving this a chance. I'm a very picky reader and I do tend to nitpick when something starts to not work for me in a book.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
January 8, 2019
My gawd, this book is a warm, strong, heart-clenching fist that refuses to let go. You’ll surrender to it through the tears, the smiles, and the soul-nourishing sighs. Jewel E. Ann never disappoints.
Read
June 28, 2018
Read Today:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2wNPWQu
August 13, 2016
4.5 "Scarred Souls Unite" Stars for the story and the narration!
Lovers of angst-filled, new adult romances will not want to miss this gem. Reminding me of one of my favorite writers, Colleen Hoover, Jewel E. Ann grabs your attention from the very beginning and keeps you enthralled throughout. I love stories like this where you know that there are some deep dark demons lurking in the past that are prohibiting the main characters from finding their HEA, but you don't know exactly why. Reminiscent of a romantic suspense title (without the action scenes), Idle Bloom kept me guessing throughout as I slowly was able to decipher clues as to the pasts that kept haunting the hero and the heroine and as to whether they would finally be able to exorcise these evils by finding a new meaning of life with each other. Moreover, the superb narration by Aubrey Vincent and Marcio Catalano make this a natural title to experience in audiobook format.
Vivian Graham is living a lie. Although she was accepted to Harvard, she has been deferring her admission for two years (a secret she is keeping from her parents). Instead, she spends her days working for a shop that sells marijuana for medical purposes, riding the T to and from all the while enjoying her favorite weakness (Dunkin’ Donuts). She is basically sitting idle in a world that continues to evolve around her, including watching her childhood best friend complete his own Harvard degree. What could possibly cause someone to defer her dreams while standing by and watching others conquer theirs?
Oliver Konrad has already completed his Harvard degree (a law degree), but has traded in the corporate perks of firm life to go back home and become a manual laborer working for his brother's landscaping business. Meanwhile he maintains no social life to speak of, instead preferring to lead a solitary life. What could possibly cause someone to quit a successful law career and give up everything they have worked hard for to return home and become a recluse?
Both Vivian and Oliver have resolved themselves to a life of loneliness, but when they meet there is something deeply reminiscent of themselves in the other. Fight though they try, they little by little find themselves opening up to one another. But can two scarred souls possibly find healing love in one another?
Aubrey Vincent and Marcio Catalano narrate Idle Bloom in the typical new adult fashion with Ms. Vincent narrating the chapters from Vivian's point of view and Mr. Catalano the ones from Oliver's. This style works well for this book as it adds a natural divider between the thoughts and experiences of these two individuals that we slowly learn about as the story takes its course.
Both Ms. Vincent and Mr. Catalano do a good job of providing distinguishable voices for each one of the various characters. I particularly enjoyed Ms. Vincent's portrayal of Vivian which I found directly on point. Sounding just like a young adult, and baring a certain sense of vulnerability all the while maintaining great strength in unimaginably adverse circumstances, I highly enjoyed Ms. Vincent's narration and felt like it added to the appeal and heart tugging strings of this emotional story.
All in all, I highly recommend Idle Bloom to romance listeners that enjoy new adult themes. Moreover, whether you're a fan of audiobooks or haven't yet tried one, this romance has a great narration making it a good choice to pick up in audiobook format.
Source: Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review.
Lovers of angst-filled, new adult romances will not want to miss this gem. Reminding me of one of my favorite writers, Colleen Hoover, Jewel E. Ann grabs your attention from the very beginning and keeps you enthralled throughout. I love stories like this where you know that there are some deep dark demons lurking in the past that are prohibiting the main characters from finding their HEA, but you don't know exactly why. Reminiscent of a romantic suspense title (without the action scenes), Idle Bloom kept me guessing throughout as I slowly was able to decipher clues as to the pasts that kept haunting the hero and the heroine and as to whether they would finally be able to exorcise these evils by finding a new meaning of life with each other. Moreover, the superb narration by Aubrey Vincent and Marcio Catalano make this a natural title to experience in audiobook format.
Vivian Graham is living a lie. Although she was accepted to Harvard, she has been deferring her admission for two years (a secret she is keeping from her parents). Instead, she spends her days working for a shop that sells marijuana for medical purposes, riding the T to and from all the while enjoying her favorite weakness (Dunkin’ Donuts). She is basically sitting idle in a world that continues to evolve around her, including watching her childhood best friend complete his own Harvard degree. What could possibly cause someone to defer her dreams while standing by and watching others conquer theirs?
Oliver Konrad has already completed his Harvard degree (a law degree), but has traded in the corporate perks of firm life to go back home and become a manual laborer working for his brother's landscaping business. Meanwhile he maintains no social life to speak of, instead preferring to lead a solitary life. What could possibly cause someone to quit a successful law career and give up everything they have worked hard for to return home and become a recluse?
Both Vivian and Oliver have resolved themselves to a life of loneliness, but when they meet there is something deeply reminiscent of themselves in the other. Fight though they try, they little by little find themselves opening up to one another. But can two scarred souls possibly find healing love in one another?
Aubrey Vincent and Marcio Catalano narrate Idle Bloom in the typical new adult fashion with Ms. Vincent narrating the chapters from Vivian's point of view and Mr. Catalano the ones from Oliver's. This style works well for this book as it adds a natural divider between the thoughts and experiences of these two individuals that we slowly learn about as the story takes its course.
Both Ms. Vincent and Mr. Catalano do a good job of providing distinguishable voices for each one of the various characters. I particularly enjoyed Ms. Vincent's portrayal of Vivian which I found directly on point. Sounding just like a young adult, and baring a certain sense of vulnerability all the while maintaining great strength in unimaginably adverse circumstances, I highly enjoyed Ms. Vincent's narration and felt like it added to the appeal and heart tugging strings of this emotional story.
All in all, I highly recommend Idle Bloom to romance listeners that enjoy new adult themes. Moreover, whether you're a fan of audiobooks or haven't yet tried one, this romance has a great narration making it a good choice to pick up in audiobook format.
Source: Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2015
What an amazing read by new to me author Jewel E Ann! Hook, line and sinker: that was me. I was caught in a spell woven by an author who really knows how to draw the reader in. When you read as much as I do it is rare to find something that grabs hold and doesn’t let go till the final page.
It feels very much like a NA read, but it’s also so much more than that. It is gripping, soulful, and unexpected. I fell in love with the realism created between Vivian and Oliver. At times it was heart breaking, and other times it was laugh out loud funny.
There are some real issues in Idle Bloom, and I think they were handled with honest reactions. Mental illness, grief, self discovery, and recovery are all addressed and present, although not in a typical way.
There are times when the NA aspect became a bit redundant with the angst and drama, but I am so in love with these guys, I can overlook it. This has honestly been one of my favorite reads of the year thus far!
5 STARS
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It feels very much like a NA read, but it’s also so much more than that. It is gripping, soulful, and unexpected. I fell in love with the realism created between Vivian and Oliver. At times it was heart breaking, and other times it was laugh out loud funny.
There are some real issues in Idle Bloom, and I think they were handled with honest reactions. Mental illness, grief, self discovery, and recovery are all addressed and present, although not in a typical way.
There are times when the NA aspect became a bit redundant with the angst and drama, but I am so in love with these guys, I can overlook it. This has honestly been one of my favorite reads of the year thus far!
5 STARS
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July 1, 2015
I'm not certain I have ever had such a complete range of emotions and opinions while reading a book. Which is saying a lot, considering how many books I plow through each year. Idle Bloom was all over the place and not always in a good way.
Somewhere around 7% was when I had my first thought of DNFing. I felt like Vivian was too childish and I wasn't fully getting a grasp of what her life was about. There are a lot of lies. Lies with her parents, lies with her roommates parents, lies with everyone. It was a bit much. A bit convoluted.
However, Vivian was hiding something. Something that made her a virgin, something she expected to be for life. The story hinted at it being a physical deformity. Honestly, I thought she had a mutilated vagina. Yep, that's where my head went. But, THAT is what had me continuing to read. I NEEDED to know what was happening.
The thing is...Vivian's big dark secret...not such a big dark secret. Well, not mutilated vagina big. It's not nothing, but I just don't think it was something that she should have resigned herself to thinking nobody could ever love her because of it. She is, supposedly, gorgeous other than this flaw. Let's be honest...there are plenty of people that look less than perfect and still find love. Vivian gave me a lot of 'Bitch, please' thoughts.
Oliver has a big dark secret as well. His was something I was able to glean pretty quickly though. For the most part, anyway. I really liked Oliver. However, he too had times of extreme immaturity and insensitivity.
There were so many things throughout the story that I thought were overly dramatized and unneeded.
There is a strong subplot that deals with mental illness and I didn't care for how any of that was handled. Again, I think some characters lacked the sensitivity the story needed.
But...
There were moments of potential greatness in this book. There was a playfulness between Vivian and Oliver that was sweet. There were some gem moments between them that were truly heartfelt. And there were profound message trying to come across at the end.
However, the execution was lacking, for me. Those moments of potential greatness were very rare and entirely overshadowed by all the 'what the fuck am I reading' moments.
Somewhere around 7% was when I had my first thought of DNFing. I felt like Vivian was too childish and I wasn't fully getting a grasp of what her life was about. There are a lot of lies. Lies with her parents, lies with her roommates parents, lies with everyone. It was a bit much. A bit convoluted.
However, Vivian was hiding something. Something that made her a virgin, something she expected to be for life. The story hinted at it being a physical deformity. Honestly, I thought she had a mutilated vagina. Yep, that's where my head went. But, THAT is what had me continuing to read. I NEEDED to know what was happening.
The thing is...Vivian's big dark secret...not such a big dark secret. Well, not mutilated vagina big. It's not nothing, but I just don't think it was something that she should have resigned herself to thinking nobody could ever love her because of it. She is, supposedly, gorgeous other than this flaw. Let's be honest...there are plenty of people that look less than perfect and still find love. Vivian gave me a lot of 'Bitch, please' thoughts.
Oliver has a big dark secret as well. His was something I was able to glean pretty quickly though. For the most part, anyway. I really liked Oliver. However, he too had times of extreme immaturity and insensitivity.
There were so many things throughout the story that I thought were overly dramatized and unneeded.
There is a strong subplot that deals with mental illness and I didn't care for how any of that was handled. Again, I think some characters lacked the sensitivity the story needed.
But...
There were moments of potential greatness in this book. There was a playfulness between Vivian and Oliver that was sweet. There were some gem moments between them that were truly heartfelt. And there were profound message trying to come across at the end.
However, the execution was lacking, for me. Those moments of potential greatness were very rare and entirely overshadowed by all the 'what the fuck am I reading' moments.
July 11, 2018
Sooooooo....what happened here?
I’ve enjoyed the other Jewel E Ann books that I’ve read, but this....
Vivian and her V-card
Oliver and his secret (which, by the way, had a horrible wrap up at the end)
I didn’t care for this.
I’ve enjoyed the other Jewel E Ann books that I’ve read, but this....
Vivian and her V-card
Oliver and his secret (which, by the way, had a horrible wrap up at the end)
I didn’t care for this.
September 13, 2017
Original plot with secrets galore and witty banter made me happy. The abrupt and IMHO deflating ending left me a little empty. Although the sex was abundant, it was abrupt. So although I went into it
because I had to know Oliver's secret COME ON! I had to eventually
and finish it this morning. I loved the originality of the plot and Vivian's view of the world and positive outlook. All in all good stuff!
December 4, 2014
Vivian and Oliver... I didn't dislike it but didn't love it either.
July 15, 2020
Not a favourite of mine.
July 25, 2020
4 ⭐'s
“I notice everything about you, but I only see the things that matter.”
I'm not really sure how this book got by me. I love Jewel E. Ann's books and this one is a keeper.
Vivian has been fantasizing about a certain someone on the subway every day, not having a clue he's been doing the same with her. Then, she finds out he's the brother of one of the Green Pot's clients where she works AND one of her neighbors.
They start up a friendship and go on some "non-dates"...it's all very innocent until it's not. Oliver has some serious issues with his past and it really affects his life and unfortunately, Vivian is brought into it as she gets closer to Oliver.
Vivian is scarred as well, literally. And as Oliver finds out more, he's affected too but Vivian brings sunshine into his life and he can't let her go.
“Boston Kreme me, Oli.”
Oliver's past is heavy and it's not hard to figure out what happened. I hate reading about this stuff and I really hate when it gets dragged out so I was happy when everything came out in the open. However, when he starts to deal with it, I was surprised at how long it took.
Luckily, things came together and I enjoyed the epilogue...even if it was a bit too perfect.
“No take backs.”
“I notice everything about you, but I only see the things that matter.”
I'm not really sure how this book got by me. I love Jewel E. Ann's books and this one is a keeper.
Vivian has been fantasizing about a certain someone on the subway every day, not having a clue he's been doing the same with her. Then, she finds out he's the brother of one of the Green Pot's clients where she works AND one of her neighbors.
They start up a friendship and go on some "non-dates"...it's all very innocent until it's not. Oliver has some serious issues with his past and it really affects his life and unfortunately, Vivian is brought into it as she gets closer to Oliver.
Vivian is scarred as well, literally. And as Oliver finds out more, he's affected too but Vivian brings sunshine into his life and he can't let her go.
“Boston Kreme me, Oli.”
Oliver's past is heavy and it's not hard to figure out what happened. I hate reading about this stuff and I really hate when it gets dragged out so I was happy when everything came out in the open. However, when he starts to deal with it, I was surprised at how long it took.
Luckily, things came together and I enjoyed the epilogue...even if it was a bit too perfect.
“No take backs.”
January 22, 2019
4.5 stars!!
“Lost is a state of mind. You’ll find yourself when you acknowledge you’re exactly where you need to be in this moment.”
Two people, two gut wrenching pasts. When they come together it could be a disaster or it could be a match made in Heaven . . .
Idle Bloom by Jewel E. Ann has been on my radar for a while and came highly recommended by my book bestie. I’ve finally gotten a chance to read it and I’m kicking myself for waiting this long.
Vivian—she’s smart, sassy, beautiful and the complete package. With everything she’s been through, I’m surprised she’s managed to function as well as she has. My heart hurt for her.
Oliver—God, how I love him. Beautiful, broken Oliver. His past is sealed tight behind a locked door and that’s where he wants it to stay.
Together, Vivian and Oliver have to face the demons of their pasts if they want to have a future together.
“How do you do that?”
“Do what?”
“Make me feel everything with an invisible touch.”
With scorching hot moments and lots of angst, Idle Bloom was another winner for me. When you find an author you love, you want to savor every book. If only Ms. Ann could release a book a month, I’d be one thrilled reader 😜.
“No take backs.”
“Lost is a state of mind. You’ll find yourself when you acknowledge you’re exactly where you need to be in this moment.”
Two people, two gut wrenching pasts. When they come together it could be a disaster or it could be a match made in Heaven . . .
Idle Bloom by Jewel E. Ann has been on my radar for a while and came highly recommended by my book bestie. I’ve finally gotten a chance to read it and I’m kicking myself for waiting this long.
Vivian—she’s smart, sassy, beautiful and the complete package. With everything she’s been through, I’m surprised she’s managed to function as well as she has. My heart hurt for her.
Oliver—God, how I love him. Beautiful, broken Oliver. His past is sealed tight behind a locked door and that’s where he wants it to stay.
Together, Vivian and Oliver have to face the demons of their pasts if they want to have a future together.
“How do you do that?”
“Do what?”
“Make me feel everything with an invisible touch.”
With scorching hot moments and lots of angst, Idle Bloom was another winner for me. When you find an author you love, you want to savor every book. If only Ms. Ann could release a book a month, I’d be one thrilled reader 😜.
“No take backs.”
July 3, 2017
As my quest to read all of Jewel E. Ann's books continues, I knew I was bound to run into one I didn't like...
It finally happened.
Ann is very good at taking that instantaneous connection between two people and making it work.
Except for this story.
I wasn't a huge fan of Oliver or Vivian, and found their "struggles" to be underdeveloped. Vivian's struggle, while I understand her insecurity, didn't seem like that big of a deal. Oliver's struggle had potential to be fully flushed out, but ended up being wrapped up quickly.
Maybe their character arcs couldn't be fully developed BECAUSE ALL THEY DID WAS HAVE SEX!
I mean, gesh!
Clearly I don't mind smut, but I do mind when sex scenes seem pointless and redundant.
We all get it.
These two characters are physically attracted to one another...
It finally happened.
Ann is very good at taking that instantaneous connection between two people and making it work.
Except for this story.
I wasn't a huge fan of Oliver or Vivian, and found their "struggles" to be underdeveloped. Vivian's struggle, while I understand her insecurity, didn't seem like that big of a deal. Oliver's struggle had potential to be fully flushed out, but ended up being wrapped up quickly.
Maybe their character arcs couldn't be fully developed BECAUSE ALL THEY DID WAS HAVE SEX!
I mean, gesh!
Clearly I don't mind smut, but I do mind when sex scenes seem pointless and redundant.
We all get it.
These two characters are physically attracted to one another...
July 6, 2017
Omg I can't stop reading this author..her books feed my reading loving soul. She has you so connected, so in love and entranced by these characters that you just stand at the cliff..waiting..will it be heartache, will it be forever, will it be the end? I simply can't get enough. This book had it all..the feels, laughter (out loud bursts of t) a female character so strong I secretly want to be her. And a man so broken that he must reach rock bottom to start the crawl back to now. Loved every damn word. Hooked.
For more from us wino, Book hooks please hang out with us at http://www.facebook.com/twounrulygirls
For more from us wino, Book hooks please hang out with us at http://www.facebook.com/twounrulygirls
October 1, 2019
Same 26 alphabets in English language, yet why do they effect me more....because jewel puts them as ink in her pen to tattoo on our souls forever.
"sometimes ordinary words have such extraordinary meaning."
This frustratingly angsty story smashed on my heart like a meteor and left a huge crater!
I wanted bash open the door in the sexy landscaper-Oliver Konrad's home, that he had bolted shut...who does that..bolts anymore!!!
I wanted to shake Vivian hard to let go of her insecurities. Why couldn't she understand that her scars added to her beauty as a survivor. She has earned her stripes dammit!! Well..like a females on earth, she was easier to convince and stronger than a man.
Their sexual vibes were electric, charging up the aura around them. Unlike poles attract and they smashed and fused together, rocking the rusty twin bed like a train screeching on its wheels.
"the symphony of Vivian and her childhood bed getting seriously nailed by the hottest guy to ever walk the planet."
Outside of the bed, their slow burning relationship is rocky, confrontational and secretive.
They're opposites in wants, similar in needs. she needs a relationship based on emotions without the need for physical gratification, while he's only got provision for a physical release without the emotional investment. They really need to find the middle road somewhere!!
This is my 16th book by jewel and she STILL manages to have me agape with her superlative story embellished with unforgettable lines.
"I’m the sunset, she is the sunrise, and the only thing between us is a world of darkness."
Emotions fly everywhere, guts get wrenched, tears are flowing freely and you can hear some Kindles being thrown to the walls somewhere!
It's a heavy involvement book. You're not only invested but fixed deposited and locked up in the vault kinda committed to the passionate-st story from her coffers. I chewed my fingernails to the quick, was ugghing and Gaahing all along. Wanted to slap Oli, hurt him physically at points and then hig him hard.. Talk about a full range of emotions!!!
But the one central theme is forgiveness and the whys of it. I have just read Wise Tarryn's words that forgiveness is not for them, it's for YOU. So that you walk away with a soft heart, bitterness doesn't let you harden it.
Jewel shares the same sentiment through Vivian and Oliver's relationship . Its smooth sailing one moment and turbulent the next, break up, make up all making it a rocky road to HEAA
"Hating someone does that to you. It’s a virus that infiltrates your life and takes hold of everyone that matters to you, then it rips them away one at a time until you’re all alone, empty, and dead inside. Hatred breeds resentment and murders happiness. It’s opportunistic and will suck the life out of you until you’re nothing but an empty shell.
Forgiveness is letting go and letting go is painful. It’s not something we do for others; it’s something we do for ourselves."
See what I mean, it's like she reinvents words, heals the soul, rejuvenates heart...all because she writes a book!🥺. Sometimes I have to stop in the middle of a scene and stare at the wall, because I'm so happy that I cry, or an epiphany has me frozen. I have many a times used her books to heal myself and reprogramme my life
It's public knowledge that I am a worshipper of all words jewel. It's always tough task to pick something after I've indulged in her book.
“It’s impossible to float a boat in a puddle when it’s already set sail in the ocean.”
Jewel has many times told me that she loves me, so I'd like to remind her - No Take Backs Missy!!
I'm only two books away from her full kitty...so I jump on Holding you now
5 stars for Boston Cream Doughnut Porn Show
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Follow me on:
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"sometimes ordinary words have such extraordinary meaning."
This frustratingly angsty story smashed on my heart like a meteor and left a huge crater!
I wanted bash open the door in the sexy landscaper-Oliver Konrad's home, that he had bolted shut...who does that..bolts anymore!!!
I wanted to shake Vivian hard to let go of her insecurities. Why couldn't she understand that her scars added to her beauty as a survivor. She has earned her stripes dammit!! Well..like a females on earth, she was easier to convince and stronger than a man.
Their sexual vibes were electric, charging up the aura around them. Unlike poles attract and they smashed and fused together, rocking the rusty twin bed like a train screeching on its wheels.
"the symphony of Vivian and her childhood bed getting seriously nailed by the hottest guy to ever walk the planet."
Outside of the bed, their slow burning relationship is rocky, confrontational and secretive.
They're opposites in wants, similar in needs. she needs a relationship based on emotions without the need for physical gratification, while he's only got provision for a physical release without the emotional investment. They really need to find the middle road somewhere!!
This is my 16th book by jewel and she STILL manages to have me agape with her superlative story embellished with unforgettable lines.
"I’m the sunset, she is the sunrise, and the only thing between us is a world of darkness."
Emotions fly everywhere, guts get wrenched, tears are flowing freely and you can hear some Kindles being thrown to the walls somewhere!
It's a heavy involvement book. You're not only invested but fixed deposited and locked up in the vault kinda committed to the passionate-st story from her coffers. I chewed my fingernails to the quick, was ugghing and Gaahing all along. Wanted to slap Oli, hurt him physically at points and then hig him hard.. Talk about a full range of emotions!!!
But the one central theme is forgiveness and the whys of it. I have just read Wise Tarryn's words that forgiveness is not for them, it's for YOU. So that you walk away with a soft heart, bitterness doesn't let you harden it.
Jewel shares the same sentiment through Vivian and Oliver's relationship . Its smooth sailing one moment and turbulent the next, break up, make up all making it a rocky road to HEAA
"Hating someone does that to you. It’s a virus that infiltrates your life and takes hold of everyone that matters to you, then it rips them away one at a time until you’re all alone, empty, and dead inside. Hatred breeds resentment and murders happiness. It’s opportunistic and will suck the life out of you until you’re nothing but an empty shell.
Forgiveness is letting go and letting go is painful. It’s not something we do for others; it’s something we do for ourselves."
See what I mean, it's like she reinvents words, heals the soul, rejuvenates heart...all because she writes a book!🥺. Sometimes I have to stop in the middle of a scene and stare at the wall, because I'm so happy that I cry, or an epiphany has me frozen. I have many a times used her books to heal myself and reprogramme my life
It's public knowledge that I am a worshipper of all words jewel. It's always tough task to pick something after I've indulged in her book.
“It’s impossible to float a boat in a puddle when it’s already set sail in the ocean.”
Jewel has many times told me that she loves me, so I'd like to remind her - No Take Backs Missy!!
I'm only two books away from her full kitty...so I jump on Holding you now
5 stars for Boston Cream Doughnut Porn Show
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow me on:
BookBistroBlog@gmail.com
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November 24, 2014
Armed with her acceptance letters to Harvard, the future is looking good for Vivian, until one tragic accident pulls her world out from under her and she fails to regain her balance and move forward. Keeping secrets have become part of her life as the world goes on and she is hung in limbo, working at a small shop, taking the bus to work and living with a friend, who asks her to leave every time their parents come to town. This bohemian lifestyle does have its perks, a stop at Dunkin’ donuts, and the pleasure of surreptitiously ogling the man candy on her daily commute. All was going well until one ill-timed jolt of the bus sends her chocolaty good donut into the chest of said man candy. And the adventure begins.
Turns out Oliver is more than just a stranger on a bus, not only is he working with his brother as a landscaper, picking up supplies from Vivian’s work, but he is her neighbor. There is chemistry, but Oliver keeps a part of himself locked away, refusing to share his past or what makes him tick now.
Vivian has found the man she wants to punch her V card and he isn’t willing. Enter the seductress in Viv, as her inner wild child comes out to play, can Oliver resist her forever? For all they share, he’s still holding something back, still only living half a life. What does a girl have to do? Vivian wants more than another good friend, no matter how much fun she has with Oliver, no matter how much they talk, the barrier won’t come down. What secrets are locked behind that door down the hall?
These two are clearly meant for each other, but is there a future for them if the past cannot be resolved?
Idle Bloom by Jewel E. Ann is an often hysterical trip down Lover’s Lane. Vivian is priceless, damaged, but still so full of hope for her future, as uncertain as that is, while trying to step outside of her comfort zone and begin to live in the present. Oliver has demons that haunt him daily, as he tortures himself with a past that cannot be changed. The rest of the characters each have a bit of quirkiness to them that brighten the sometimes heavy moments through the thorny patches of this relationship. Jewel E. Ann has captured the awkwardness of a budding relationship well, through the eyes and hearts of her characters. There are no knuckle-dragging heroes, no frail heroines, but real people trapped in lives they haven’t broken free from. Expect to shed tears, some of sorrow, some from laughter and some because the tension gets steamy hot at the most unpredictable and unlikely times. Pure entertainment with a little eyebrow-raising heat and that free-spirited writing style that is pure Jewel E. Ann!
Publication Date: December 1, 2014
Publisher: Jewel E. Ann
Genre: NA/Adult Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 398 pages
Available from: Amazon
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Turns out Oliver is more than just a stranger on a bus, not only is he working with his brother as a landscaper, picking up supplies from Vivian’s work, but he is her neighbor. There is chemistry, but Oliver keeps a part of himself locked away, refusing to share his past or what makes him tick now.
Vivian has found the man she wants to punch her V card and he isn’t willing. Enter the seductress in Viv, as her inner wild child comes out to play, can Oliver resist her forever? For all they share, he’s still holding something back, still only living half a life. What does a girl have to do? Vivian wants more than another good friend, no matter how much fun she has with Oliver, no matter how much they talk, the barrier won’t come down. What secrets are locked behind that door down the hall?
These two are clearly meant for each other, but is there a future for them if the past cannot be resolved?
Idle Bloom by Jewel E. Ann is an often hysterical trip down Lover’s Lane. Vivian is priceless, damaged, but still so full of hope for her future, as uncertain as that is, while trying to step outside of her comfort zone and begin to live in the present. Oliver has demons that haunt him daily, as he tortures himself with a past that cannot be changed. The rest of the characters each have a bit of quirkiness to them that brighten the sometimes heavy moments through the thorny patches of this relationship. Jewel E. Ann has captured the awkwardness of a budding relationship well, through the eyes and hearts of her characters. There are no knuckle-dragging heroes, no frail heroines, but real people trapped in lives they haven’t broken free from. Expect to shed tears, some of sorrow, some from laughter and some because the tension gets steamy hot at the most unpredictable and unlikely times. Pure entertainment with a little eyebrow-raising heat and that free-spirited writing style that is pure Jewel E. Ann!
Publication Date: December 1, 2014
Publisher: Jewel E. Ann
Genre: NA/Adult Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 398 pages
Available from: Amazon
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 7, 2018
***** 3.5 Stars *****
Idle Bloom is a good story, but nothing to scream about.
I really like how Vivian is smart and quirky, but her lack of confidence is annoying. Oliver also has some qualities that bother me.
Jewel E. Ann is an incredible author, but this book failed to wow me.
Idle Bloom is a good story, but nothing to scream about.
I really like how Vivian is smart and quirky, but her lack of confidence is annoying. Oliver also has some qualities that bother me.
Jewel E. Ann is an incredible author, but this book failed to wow me.
February 10, 2018
I love it when I start a book without any knowledge about it and it blows my mind!
I can't say that it was perfect (meh to instalove) but it got me hooked from the beginning and there were unexpected turns!
I can't say that it was perfect (meh to instalove) but it got me hooked from the beginning and there were unexpected turns!
December 13, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
“So just like getting an unsightly mole removed, I’m going to get rid of my virginity. It’s so overrated. It’s not like I feel special still having mine. I can’t put it on a resume’ or anything like that.”
“Oliver kisses me and the earth stops moving beneath my feet, as if our lips meeting trumps anything else the over seven billion other people in the world are doing at this exact moment. Time just… stops.”
“I can’t get enough of him. He’s ice cream on a hot summer day, peanuts and the Red Sox, popcorn at the movies, and a candlelit cake on my birthday.”
“I love sex with Oli. If I had a car I’d get a bumper sticker that said so. Maybe I should get a tattoo that says it. Maybe not.”
“I’m uncontrollably in love with Vivian. In such a short amount of time she’s infiltrated my thoughts, cast a spell over my body, and wormed her way into the deepest part of my heart. A day without her would feel like a lifetime without a breath, an eternity without light."
“I hope every day you take each other’s breath away. I hope every kiss feels like the first buy ends like the last. I hope you always see the best versions of yourselves reflected in each other’s eyes… But mostly, I hope you wake up every morning next to each other because there’s no place in the world you’d rather be, instead of having nowhere else to go. May you always be each other’s home.”
My Review:
I have a new infatuation. I had never heard of Jewel E. Ann before I picked up this book, but now I feel a compulsion to read everything she has ever written. I honestly did not want to stop reading after starting page 1. I was enthralled. I smirked, I laughed aloud, I cringed, I choked up, and I was nearly panting during several of her deliciously steamy scenes. I loved the story and adored the characters. The writing is crisp, humorous, touching, insightful, sassy, and smart. I read all day and felt major irritation when even briefly interrupted for any reason. Phone calls went unanswered, the computer remained off, meals went uncooked, and my husband had to fend for himself – so basically, anarchy prevailed. I loved the book so much I had marked over a dozen areas for “Favorite Quotes,” and found it extremely difficult to narrow the list down to six. Despite it being a perfectly written self-contained stand-alone with a satisfying conclusion, I still wanted more. I grieved seeing those dreaded words on my kindle, “The End” and “Book Complete.” But I don’t think I could ever get enough of Oliver and Vivian’s story. Idle Bloom was perfection, and I know I will be raving about this one for quite some time.
“So just like getting an unsightly mole removed, I’m going to get rid of my virginity. It’s so overrated. It’s not like I feel special still having mine. I can’t put it on a resume’ or anything like that.”
“Oliver kisses me and the earth stops moving beneath my feet, as if our lips meeting trumps anything else the over seven billion other people in the world are doing at this exact moment. Time just… stops.”
“I can’t get enough of him. He’s ice cream on a hot summer day, peanuts and the Red Sox, popcorn at the movies, and a candlelit cake on my birthday.”
“I love sex with Oli. If I had a car I’d get a bumper sticker that said so. Maybe I should get a tattoo that says it. Maybe not.”
“I’m uncontrollably in love with Vivian. In such a short amount of time she’s infiltrated my thoughts, cast a spell over my body, and wormed her way into the deepest part of my heart. A day without her would feel like a lifetime without a breath, an eternity without light."
“I hope every day you take each other’s breath away. I hope every kiss feels like the first buy ends like the last. I hope you always see the best versions of yourselves reflected in each other’s eyes… But mostly, I hope you wake up every morning next to each other because there’s no place in the world you’d rather be, instead of having nowhere else to go. May you always be each other’s home.”
My Review:
I have a new infatuation. I had never heard of Jewel E. Ann before I picked up this book, but now I feel a compulsion to read everything she has ever written. I honestly did not want to stop reading after starting page 1. I was enthralled. I smirked, I laughed aloud, I cringed, I choked up, and I was nearly panting during several of her deliciously steamy scenes. I loved the story and adored the characters. The writing is crisp, humorous, touching, insightful, sassy, and smart. I read all day and felt major irritation when even briefly interrupted for any reason. Phone calls went unanswered, the computer remained off, meals went uncooked, and my husband had to fend for himself – so basically, anarchy prevailed. I loved the book so much I had marked over a dozen areas for “Favorite Quotes,” and found it extremely difficult to narrow the list down to six. Despite it being a perfectly written self-contained stand-alone with a satisfying conclusion, I still wanted more. I grieved seeing those dreaded words on my kindle, “The End” and “Book Complete.” But I don’t think I could ever get enough of Oliver and Vivian’s story. Idle Bloom was perfection, and I know I will be raving about this one for quite some time.
March 12, 2017
Jewel has done it again with this story.
I laughed, I cried, I felt these characters emotions.
Such an amazing love story of growth, forgiveness, survival, and of course love. Such love between Oliver and Viviane. These two learn to live again through each other, with each other and because of each other.
The epilogue was perfect for these two. Im so glad they stayed true to character.
Thats it Im out of Jewel books!! NOW WHAT!!!
I laughed, I cried, I felt these characters emotions.
Such an amazing love story of growth, forgiveness, survival, and of course love. Such love between Oliver and Viviane. These two learn to live again through each other, with each other and because of each other.
The epilogue was perfect for these two. Im so glad they stayed true to character.
Thats it Im out of Jewel books!! NOW WHAT!!!
August 23, 2015
After reading Undeniably You - I became a big fan of Jewel E. Ann...so I picked out this book to see if maybe she was just a one-book-wonder, but alas I have found her to be one of my top 5 authors!!! She is so freakin' whitty, sharp, funny and writes some smokin' hot sex scenes too, but most of all you just don't get bored and the stories are just so good!!!
September 15, 2019
This is one of my favorite authors, so it pains me to say.... this one was not for me.
I was missing the excitement, the suspense, the chemistry, usually i fall for her characters, but not this time. We idle along at a pace that is too slow for me. I gave up at 50% and don’t even want to know what Oliver’s big secret is.
I was missing the excitement, the suspense, the chemistry, usually i fall for her characters, but not this time. We idle along at a pace that is too slow for me. I gave up at 50% and don’t even want to know what Oliver’s big secret is.
May 10, 2019
It’s a wonderful feeling when you discover a new author and immediately want to read every book they’ve written. This is the 11th book I’ve read by Jewel E. Ann since March and while I certainly have favorites, each one gives me the same sense of fulfillment and giddiness of finding a book that calls to you.
Idle Bloom certainly left me with those feelings, something I’ve come to expect from Jewel’s books to the point that they’re like comfort food.
Reading a book that doesn’t hit the mark? Read something by Jewel.
Feeling down in life and need a pick-me-Up? Read something by Jewel.
Want a guaranteed book high? Read something by Jewel.
Basically, Jewel’s books are my happy place.
Idle Bloom certainly left me with those feelings, something I’ve come to expect from Jewel’s books to the point that they’re like comfort food.
Reading a book that doesn’t hit the mark? Read something by Jewel.
Feeling down in life and need a pick-me-Up? Read something by Jewel.
Want a guaranteed book high? Read something by Jewel.
Basically, Jewel’s books are my happy place.
March 23, 2015
I am in love with this book, it’s as simple as that. The love between Oliver & Vivian is organic, fresh and inspiring. This one consumed me.
I know you’re thinking, ohhhh, it’s another book about a virgin. But really, it’s not. While that might be part of who Viv is, it most definitely does not define her. I’d say her more defining characteristics are her impeccable sass, her penchant for eating donuts in a way that will make a man hard in 2 seconds flat, her geeky intellectual ways, and her ability to show her endless love for Oli. She is seriously awesome. The only time she has a holy-fuck-let’s-break-everything-in-sight freakout, it’s majorly called for. Basically, you’ll love her.
Oli. OHMYOLI. You know something has happened when he was in Portland since you know, he’s no longer practicing law (MY FUCKING HERO), he hasn’t had sex in three years, and he’s working with his brother’s landscaping business. However, you have no idea what that is. It will grate on you. It will consume you. But I promise, you find out and your heart will fracture.
For two people who are both not planning on dating, they each fail to stick to their plans. There’s something about them together that works so perfectly. Both of them are damaged in ways that they can’t change, but they also accept each other without any reservations. No matter what. No take backs. It’s unsurprising that after Viv drops her V card she turns into a horny teenager. I mean, Oli is fucking hot. The two of them…oh god. These are some of the most arousing scenes I have ever EVER fucking read. I mean, which do we pick? The intellectual glasses-and-dress-shirt scene? Or the boots-only fantasy? or the thanksgiving day phone sex? or the office-bad-client-afternoon-quickie? I need to stop typing, I’m getting a little warm.
Nevertheless, when Oli is forced to face his problems head on, both he and Viv attempt to keep themselves together for the short-term so that they can be together for the long-term. I could feel the connection between them in my bones. Every time they tell each other how they feel they cut straight through the bullshit. This book has everything I look for in a romance novel and more. In case you couldn’t tell, I’m a little bit in love with Jewel E. Ann. *buys all of her books*
This review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/0...
I know you’re thinking, ohhhh, it’s another book about a virgin. But really, it’s not. While that might be part of who Viv is, it most definitely does not define her. I’d say her more defining characteristics are her impeccable sass, her penchant for eating donuts in a way that will make a man hard in 2 seconds flat, her geeky intellectual ways, and her ability to show her endless love for Oli. She is seriously awesome. The only time she has a holy-fuck-let’s-break-everything-in-sight freakout, it’s majorly called for. Basically, you’ll love her.
Oli. OHMYOLI. You know something has happened when he was in Portland since you know, he’s no longer practicing law (MY FUCKING HERO), he hasn’t had sex in three years, and he’s working with his brother’s landscaping business. However, you have no idea what that is. It will grate on you. It will consume you. But I promise, you find out and your heart will fracture.
For two people who are both not planning on dating, they each fail to stick to their plans. There’s something about them together that works so perfectly. Both of them are damaged in ways that they can’t change, but they also accept each other without any reservations. No matter what. No take backs. It’s unsurprising that after Viv drops her V card she turns into a horny teenager. I mean, Oli is fucking hot. The two of them…oh god. These are some of the most arousing scenes I have ever EVER fucking read. I mean, which do we pick? The intellectual glasses-and-dress-shirt scene? Or the boots-only fantasy? or the thanksgiving day phone sex? or the office-bad-client-afternoon-quickie? I need to stop typing, I’m getting a little warm.
Nevertheless, when Oli is forced to face his problems head on, both he and Viv attempt to keep themselves together for the short-term so that they can be together for the long-term. I could feel the connection between them in my bones. Every time they tell each other how they feel they cut straight through the bullshit. This book has everything I look for in a romance novel and more. In case you couldn’t tell, I’m a little bit in love with Jewel E. Ann. *buys all of her books*
This review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/0...
December 3, 2014
REVIEWED FOR SASSY DIVAS BOOK BLOG
Idle Bloom by Jewel E Ann was a brilliantly written story! I was hooked from the fist paragraph to the last. My God what a fantastic author! I had so many emotions while reading Idle Bloom. I was happy and laughing one minute, shocked another and then saddened, then back to happy. It wasn't overwhelming at any time, it all seemed to flow together just like it should. Jewel did a superb job of capturing the readers attention and holding onto it. Oh and she writes damn good sex scenes! WOW! My favorite would have to be the work boots fantasy! Whoop! Whoop!
The chemistry that Vivian and Oliver had was perfect! I felt it right away and throughout the whole book it just blossomed more and more. The connection they have is one made of fairytales, it was just meant to be. Their banter is exactly what I love between a couple. They can laugh and have fun but also be serious when it's needed. I couldn't stop reading and read it in about a day and a half and it's a very long book.
Vivian and Oliver both suffer from their pasts which causes hesitation to ever be in a lasting relationship. At the beginning of Idle Bloom both feared being alone the rest of their lives until a chance meeting on the train leads them down a better path. They reveal to each other their deepest secrets. They share happiness, heartbreak and loss together.
"I used to think time stood still when we were together. He was afraid to look back and I was afraid to look forward. Now I realize during all those perfect moments that seemed to stand still, we were healing and growing, loving and learning in the light of each other's hearts...We were two souls in Idle Bloom."
-Vivian
"I'm uncontrollably in love with Vivian. In such a short time she's infiltrated my thoughts, cast a spell over my body, and wormed her way into the deepest part of my heart. A day without her would feel like a lifetime without a breath, an eternity without light." -Oliver
FIVE "NO TAKE BACKS" STARS! Superb!
Idle Bloom by Jewel E Ann was a brilliantly written story! I was hooked from the fist paragraph to the last. My God what a fantastic author! I had so many emotions while reading Idle Bloom. I was happy and laughing one minute, shocked another and then saddened, then back to happy. It wasn't overwhelming at any time, it all seemed to flow together just like it should. Jewel did a superb job of capturing the readers attention and holding onto it. Oh and she writes damn good sex scenes! WOW! My favorite would have to be the work boots fantasy! Whoop! Whoop!
The chemistry that Vivian and Oliver had was perfect! I felt it right away and throughout the whole book it just blossomed more and more. The connection they have is one made of fairytales, it was just meant to be. Their banter is exactly what I love between a couple. They can laugh and have fun but also be serious when it's needed. I couldn't stop reading and read it in about a day and a half and it's a very long book.
Vivian and Oliver both suffer from their pasts which causes hesitation to ever be in a lasting relationship. At the beginning of Idle Bloom both feared being alone the rest of their lives until a chance meeting on the train leads them down a better path. They reveal to each other their deepest secrets. They share happiness, heartbreak and loss together.
"I used to think time stood still when we were together. He was afraid to look back and I was afraid to look forward. Now I realize during all those perfect moments that seemed to stand still, we were healing and growing, loving and learning in the light of each other's hearts...We were two souls in Idle Bloom."
-Vivian
"I'm uncontrollably in love with Vivian. In such a short time she's infiltrated my thoughts, cast a spell over my body, and wormed her way into the deepest part of my heart. A day without her would feel like a lifetime without a breath, an eternity without light." -Oliver
FIVE "NO TAKE BACKS" STARS! Superb!
January 15, 2015
Idle Bloom majorly impressed me. I didn't go in with any certain expectations, but the story was so different and unexpected and so well written it blew me away. Vivian is a character that I quickly loved, she's smart, witty, and fun, but also scarred from her past. I'd want to be her bff is she didn't already have such a great one. Vivian meets Oliver on the train, and it's as if they are meant to be. They keep running into each other and their chemistry is off the charts; there was no way these two weren't getting together. Oliver also has a past, one he hasn't dealt with and one that brought tears to my eyes. Nothing about their relationship is easy, but the effort they put into was one reason I loved it and them so much.
This book isn't perfect, there were a few issues for me here and there and things that caused me to go "WTH?!", but the story, the characters, it all made me not care about those things in the end because I loved this book, unlike I have loved one in awhile. Vivian and Oliver have one one those love stories that's so real and honest it just melts my heart. Idle Bloom had me laughing, smiling, swooning, and even crying. It's had a perfect blend of angst and grief, love and happiness, and sarcasm and steam. Jewel E. Ann has a new fan in me, I can't wait to read more of her work.
"To the front of the battle line, the end of the earth, to my last breath...That's how far I will go for her."
This book isn't perfect, there were a few issues for me here and there and things that caused me to go "WTH?!", but the story, the characters, it all made me not care about those things in the end because I loved this book, unlike I have loved one in awhile. Vivian and Oliver have one one those love stories that's so real and honest it just melts my heart. Idle Bloom had me laughing, smiling, swooning, and even crying. It's had a perfect blend of angst and grief, love and happiness, and sarcasm and steam. Jewel E. Ann has a new fan in me, I can't wait to read more of her work.
"To the front of the battle line, the end of the earth, to my last breath...That's how far I will go for her."
March 10, 2019
Overall, this book was good. Not great. My biggest complaint is Vivian’s immaturity. She is only 21/22 but, damn, girl!
Some of the subject matter was really heavy and intense, with some deeply tragic triggers in the backstory- particularly for parents. I’ll most likely read another book by this author (this was my first) but next I’ll be reading something funny and/or uplifting.
Some of the subject matter was really heavy and intense, with some deeply tragic triggers in the backstory- particularly for parents. I’ll most likely read another book by this author (this was my first) but next I’ll be reading something funny and/or uplifting.
December 9, 2020
Vivian & Oliver! Quite the couple and quite the story! This story has many ups and downs but so much fun along the way! Many laugh out loud moments and some sad too but all in all a story full of Love!
4 Satisfied Stars
4 Satisfied Stars
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