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Christmas in Full Bloom
This Christmas, can they slow down long enough to smell the roses and fall in love?
When savvy, up-and-coming floral designer Lauren Beal returns home to Maple Valley, Michigan, for her sister’s holiday wedding, she’s determined to be the perfect maid of honor. She didn’t expect the best man to be the college crush she’d reluctantly left behind to pursue her Chicago-based dreams.
Family practice doctor Mel Jennings always knew he’d remain rooted in Maple Valley to work for his father’s clinic. He happily juggles his demanding practice with philanthropic endeavors that connect him to his tight-knit community. Sparks fly when he reunites with Lauren, the one who ran away. As they enjoy Maple Valley’s Christmas festivities, Mel remembers how close they once were. But can they ever have a future?
Lauren finds herself falling for Mel and suspects the feelings are mutual. Yet they’re both pulled in different directions by work and family. Will the pair find a moment alone during the hectic holiday season to figure things out, or will they miss their chance at love once again?
When savvy, up-and-coming floral designer Lauren Beal returns home to Maple Valley, Michigan, for her sister’s holiday wedding, she’s determined to be the perfect maid of honor. She didn’t expect the best man to be the college crush she’d reluctantly left behind to pursue her Chicago-based dreams.
Family practice doctor Mel Jennings always knew he’d remain rooted in Maple Valley to work for his father’s clinic. He happily juggles his demanding practice with philanthropic endeavors that connect him to his tight-knit community. Sparks fly when he reunites with Lauren, the one who ran away. As they enjoy Maple Valley’s Christmas festivities, Mel remembers how close they once were. But can they ever have a future?
Lauren finds herself falling for Mel and suspects the feelings are mutual. Yet they’re both pulled in different directions by work and family. Will the pair find a moment alone during the hectic holiday season to figure things out, or will they miss their chance at love once again?
199 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2021
41 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
Denise N. Wheatley
72 books218 followersDenise N. Wheatley is a lover of happily-ever-afters and the art of storytelling. She has written (and ghostwritten) numerous novels and novellas that run the romance gamut, from contemporary to paranormal, sweet to steamy. Denise strives to pen entertaining stories that embody matters of the heart, while creating characters who are strong, colorful and relatable.
She is an RWA member and received a B.A. in English from the University of Illinois at Chicago, the city where she was born and raised. When Denise is not sitting behind a computer, you can find her in a movie theater, on a tennis court, watching true crime television or chatting on social media.
She is an RWA member and received a B.A. in English from the University of Illinois at Chicago, the city where she was born and raised. When Denise is not sitting behind a computer, you can find her in a movie theater, on a tennis court, watching true crime television or chatting on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 31, 2021
I love this author but I struggled with this book. The magic of Christmas was definitely there, and I loved how Lauren was so good at her job, loved it and was thriving and everyone supported her. The interactions between her and Mel were a little frustrating though. It felt like they were trying too hard. And Tina was just a bit too neurotic for me. Who gets mad at their groom because he sprained his ankle at a dancing lesson? Overall, a sweet book but not my favorite.
December 5, 2021
Denise N. Wheatley has been on my reading wishlist for a while now. Christmas in Full Bloom marks my first time reading one of her books. I couldn’t have been happier with this story. Well, actually, I could. But my issue really just drove the tension between the hero and heroine to really make the story.
Lauren Beal and Mel Jennings have known each other since childhood. Growing up in Maple Valley, Michigan, the two shared the same friends and traditions. In fact, their families were very close. Mel and Lauren even went to college together. After college, Mel was content to stay in Maple Valley. Lauren wanted bright lights, a big city and to make her mark in the floral design world. It’s been about five years since the two last saw each other. Mel is now a family doctor, working alongside his father, and beloved by the members of his community. Lauren is now the co-founder/owner of Chicago-based In Full Bloom, which is growing in popularity and attracting the attention of Chicago’s upper crest. Lauren has been so busy that she never returns to Maple Valley for Christmas. However, this year is different. This year, Lauren is returning for a couple of weeks to not only celebrate Christmas but the wedding of her younger sister.
With Lauren being the maid of honor and Mel the best man, the two are forced to be together often. It isn’t long before Lauren realizes how attractive Mel is and that he’s a really good guy. For his part, Mel doesn’t shy away when it comes to his interest in Lauren. Their problem is timing, and interference from others.
I loved Mel and Lauren both individually and together. I loved the secondary characters. Christmas in Full Bloom is a sweet romance, that flowed well and for me wasn’t predictable. I’m not giving this story a higher rating because I found the “will they/won’t they” dance to be long and frustrating. Just when I thought “yes”, I was left saying “ugh”. This story embodies what I love about Christmas romances. I found it to be fun, playful, romantic, and magical. After all, “there is nothing more magical than Christmastime in Maple Valley.” I am definitely looking forward to reading more books from Denise.
~ FAVORITE QUOTE ~
“Actions speak louder than words.”
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
Lauren Beal and Mel Jennings have known each other since childhood. Growing up in Maple Valley, Michigan, the two shared the same friends and traditions. In fact, their families were very close. Mel and Lauren even went to college together. After college, Mel was content to stay in Maple Valley. Lauren wanted bright lights, a big city and to make her mark in the floral design world. It’s been about five years since the two last saw each other. Mel is now a family doctor, working alongside his father, and beloved by the members of his community. Lauren is now the co-founder/owner of Chicago-based In Full Bloom, which is growing in popularity and attracting the attention of Chicago’s upper crest. Lauren has been so busy that she never returns to Maple Valley for Christmas. However, this year is different. This year, Lauren is returning for a couple of weeks to not only celebrate Christmas but the wedding of her younger sister.
With Lauren being the maid of honor and Mel the best man, the two are forced to be together often. It isn’t long before Lauren realizes how attractive Mel is and that he’s a really good guy. For his part, Mel doesn’t shy away when it comes to his interest in Lauren. Their problem is timing, and interference from others.
I loved Mel and Lauren both individually and together. I loved the secondary characters. Christmas in Full Bloom is a sweet romance, that flowed well and for me wasn’t predictable. I’m not giving this story a higher rating because I found the “will they/won’t they” dance to be long and frustrating. Just when I thought “yes”, I was left saying “ugh”. This story embodies what I love about Christmas romances. I found it to be fun, playful, romantic, and magical. After all, “there is nothing more magical than Christmastime in Maple Valley.” I am definitely looking forward to reading more books from Denise.
~ FAVORITE QUOTE ~
“Actions speak louder than words.”
**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
October 7, 2021
Ms. Wheatley, you have my undivided attention from now! Wow!
This is my second book by this author and I’m just floored by the creativity. Lauren and her best friend own a successful flower business in Chicago, the city she’s always wanted to be in. However, a trip home to her small hometown for her sisters wedding turns everything upside down. The town and residents are so welcoming, comforting, and really know how to celebrate Christmas. Especially the town doctor, Mel. Lauren and Mel have always been friends but now, is something more blooming?
This Christmas time romance is a slow, clean burn that I couldn’t stop reading. I’m off to learn all about flowers and I look forward to more from this author in the future!
This is my second book by this author and I’m just floored by the creativity. Lauren and her best friend own a successful flower business in Chicago, the city she’s always wanted to be in. However, a trip home to her small hometown for her sisters wedding turns everything upside down. The town and residents are so welcoming, comforting, and really know how to celebrate Christmas. Especially the town doctor, Mel. Lauren and Mel have always been friends but now, is something more blooming?
This Christmas time romance is a slow, clean burn that I couldn’t stop reading. I’m off to learn all about flowers and I look forward to more from this author in the future!
December 2, 2021
This book is the first book that I am reading by Denise Whitley, and she has my attention! This book is a perfect read for the holiday season, or anytime you are in the Christmas spirit. Christmas in Full Bloom played out like a Hallmark movie, and I loved every part of it. The whole book I was rooting for Mel and Lauren the entire book.
If you are looking for a romance novel set during Christmas in a small town, pick up this book. It is worth your time.
Brittany's Rating: 5 stars
If you are looking for a romance novel set during Christmas in a small town, pick up this book. It is worth your time.
Brittany's Rating: 5 stars
October 23, 2021
I received this arc of Christmas in Full Bloom by Denise N. Wheatley from Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This was a fun holiday romance. The story is about Lauren Beal who left her hometown of Maple Valley, Michigan to move to Chicago and open her dream floral shop, Full Bloom. She and her best friend Sasha work grueling hours and have made their floral design shop a successful business. Lauren has scheduled time off to return home and help her sister Tina with all her wedding details and be her maid of honor. As the reader, I found it odd that no mention was made of her parents at all. When she arrived at her sisters house, she had a bad case of the flu. Tina called the clinic and the doctor came to check on her. Coincidentally, the doctor was Lauren’s college friend and unrequited crush, Mel Jennings. Mel is also the best man for the wedding. He prescribes some medicine and after a few days she is able to help Tina as planned.
Lauren has a big floral job that she was having to help her partner plan the constantly changing details for. Sasha texts and calls her constantly with all the issues she is facing in Chicago. Lauren runs into Mel at the diner and both get interrupted by their respective work associates. Lauren feels some chemistry when she’s around Mel and would like to explore it. Unfortunately, he always seems to be talking with his friend Alyssa, who he works on charitable events with. Lauren is afraid they are in a relationship and thinks she should forget about Mel. Every time Mel sees Lauren he mentions planning a catch up time for them and she is hopeful she is wrong about the other woman. They are thrown together at the various wedding events but someone always seems to interrupt their conversations.
Lauren couldn’t wait to leave Maple Valley for the big city and Mel couldn’t wait to return and join his dad’s medical practice in his home town. Both wonder if there’s a future for them together and where. I enjoyed the plot of the story and the angst of Mel and Lauren trying to find their way to a relationship. Most of the characters were very likable. I found Tina to be a bit whiny and annoying with her constant demands on Lauren, Mel and her fiancé. This is probably just a bit of bridezilla showing up. The town had a lot of fun holiday activities for everyone to participate in. Tina arranged for the wedding party to join in all of them. This was a fun holiday read to get you in the spirit of the season and I liked it a lot.
Lauren has a big floral job that she was having to help her partner plan the constantly changing details for. Sasha texts and calls her constantly with all the issues she is facing in Chicago. Lauren runs into Mel at the diner and both get interrupted by their respective work associates. Lauren feels some chemistry when she’s around Mel and would like to explore it. Unfortunately, he always seems to be talking with his friend Alyssa, who he works on charitable events with. Lauren is afraid they are in a relationship and thinks she should forget about Mel. Every time Mel sees Lauren he mentions planning a catch up time for them and she is hopeful she is wrong about the other woman. They are thrown together at the various wedding events but someone always seems to interrupt their conversations.
Lauren couldn’t wait to leave Maple Valley for the big city and Mel couldn’t wait to return and join his dad’s medical practice in his home town. Both wonder if there’s a future for them together and where. I enjoyed the plot of the story and the angst of Mel and Lauren trying to find their way to a relationship. Most of the characters were very likable. I found Tina to be a bit whiny and annoying with her constant demands on Lauren, Mel and her fiancé. This is probably just a bit of bridezilla showing up. The town had a lot of fun holiday activities for everyone to participate in. Tina arranged for the wedding party to join in all of them. This was a fun holiday read to get you in the spirit of the season and I liked it a lot.
October 21, 2021
Christmas in Full Bloom by Denise N. Wheatley
This Christmas, can they slow down long enough to smell the roses and fall in love?
When savvy, up-and-coming floral designer Lauren Beal returns home to Maple Valley, Michigan, for her sister’s holiday wedding, she’s determined to be the perfect maid of honor. She didn’t expect the best man to be the college crush she’d reluctantly left behind to pursue her Chicago-based dreams.
Family practice doctor Mel Jennings always knew he’d remain rooted in Maple Valley to work for his father’s clinic. He happily juggles his demanding practice with philanthropic endeavors that connect him to his tight-knit community. Sparks fly when he reunites with Lauren, the one who ran away. As they enjoy Maple Valley’s Christmas festivities, Mel remembers how close they once were. But can they ever have a future?
Lauren finds herself falling for Mel and suspects the feelings are mutual. Yet they’re both pulled in different directions by work and family. Will the pair find a moment alone during the hectic holiday season to figure things out, or will they miss their chance at love once again?
This is Mel Jennings and Lauren Beal's story.
“Yes, Mrs. Emerson,” Lauren said into the phone. “Every single flower that you requested for your holiday party is available.
They will each be included in the floral designs that we agreed upon. Trust me, they’re going to be beautiful.” Lauren stared across the desk at her best friend Sasha, who doubled as her business partner.
Mel Jennings came strolling through the door.
“Hey, Doctor Jennings!” Tina said, hugging him tightly. “It’s so good to see you.When I called the clinic earlier and spoke to the nurse, she told me that your dad was going to come out and check on Lauren.”
“He was. But he received a last-minute call from one of his heart patients who was feeling lightheaded.
“Yes, Mrs. Emerson,” Lauren said into the phone. “Every single flower that you requested for your holiday party is available.
They will each be included in the floral designs that we agreed upon. Trust me, they’re going to be beautiful.”
Lauren stared across the desk at her best friend Sasha, who doubled as her business partner.
I highly recommend reading.
Christmas in Full Bloom by Denise N. Wheatley is a 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Denise N. Wheatley.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
This Christmas, can they slow down long enough to smell the roses and fall in love?
When savvy, up-and-coming floral designer Lauren Beal returns home to Maple Valley, Michigan, for her sister’s holiday wedding, she’s determined to be the perfect maid of honor. She didn’t expect the best man to be the college crush she’d reluctantly left behind to pursue her Chicago-based dreams.
Family practice doctor Mel Jennings always knew he’d remain rooted in Maple Valley to work for his father’s clinic. He happily juggles his demanding practice with philanthropic endeavors that connect him to his tight-knit community. Sparks fly when he reunites with Lauren, the one who ran away. As they enjoy Maple Valley’s Christmas festivities, Mel remembers how close they once were. But can they ever have a future?
Lauren finds herself falling for Mel and suspects the feelings are mutual. Yet they’re both pulled in different directions by work and family. Will the pair find a moment alone during the hectic holiday season to figure things out, or will they miss their chance at love once again?
This is Mel Jennings and Lauren Beal's story.
“Yes, Mrs. Emerson,” Lauren said into the phone. “Every single flower that you requested for your holiday party is available.
They will each be included in the floral designs that we agreed upon. Trust me, they’re going to be beautiful.” Lauren stared across the desk at her best friend Sasha, who doubled as her business partner.
Mel Jennings came strolling through the door.
“Hey, Doctor Jennings!” Tina said, hugging him tightly. “It’s so good to see you.When I called the clinic earlier and spoke to the nurse, she told me that your dad was going to come out and check on Lauren.”
“He was. But he received a last-minute call from one of his heart patients who was feeling lightheaded.
“Yes, Mrs. Emerson,” Lauren said into the phone. “Every single flower that you requested for your holiday party is available.
They will each be included in the floral designs that we agreed upon. Trust me, they’re going to be beautiful.”
Lauren stared across the desk at her best friend Sasha, who doubled as her business partner.
I highly recommend reading.
Christmas in Full Bloom by Denise N. Wheatley is a 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Denise N. Wheatley.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
October 26, 2021
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
First off – that cover is gorgeous! And I want her dress! If I’m just glancing at covers looking for something Christmas-y in the romance genre… my eyes are gonna be glued to this one! Anyway, on to my thoughts on Christmas in Full Bloom.
Lauren left her small hometown of Maple Valley to live her dream in Chicago. She’s the co-owner of “Full Bloom” with her partner, Sasha, where they design the most lovely floral arrangements and are very successful, not to mention career satisfied, with what they’ve brought to life in their business. Now Lauren has scheduled some time off to return home to help her sister, Tina, with her wedding plans as well as stand as her Maid of Honor. Who would have thought that little sis would turn into a mild Bridezilla needing Lauren’s constant attention – or that she’d run into a man she’d definitely crushed on in their younger days.
Mel left for college but returned to go into his father’s medical practice never intending or needing to go beyond his hometown. Heading out for a house call for a friend, the last person Mel expected to be treated for a flu bug was Lauren, back home briefly as Maid of Honor to his Best Man in the upcoming wedding. She’s still as lovely, if not more so than when he knew her but career obligations and interruptions are going to make that “catching up evening” difficult to manage.
I loved every moment spent in this stand-alone title of Christmas in Full Bloom. It’s full of small-town charm, interesting characters, a slow-burn romance, and adults dealing with location and their careers in a way that didn’t involve huge amounts of angst, or misunderstandings simply adults, well, adulting in love but with an eye to realistic expectations as well. This is why I enjoy this author’s stories so much, I can believe in what’s going on within the story, it has just enough “real life” to balance the unique love story of each couple. If you love a good romance, especially at Christmas-time with a believable couple that had choices to be made for their love to go any further then you’ll want to add this one to your “needs to be read” list – or give yourself an early Christmas present.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
First off – that cover is gorgeous! And I want her dress! If I’m just glancing at covers looking for something Christmas-y in the romance genre… my eyes are gonna be glued to this one! Anyway, on to my thoughts on Christmas in Full Bloom.
Lauren left her small hometown of Maple Valley to live her dream in Chicago. She’s the co-owner of “Full Bloom” with her partner, Sasha, where they design the most lovely floral arrangements and are very successful, not to mention career satisfied, with what they’ve brought to life in their business. Now Lauren has scheduled some time off to return home to help her sister, Tina, with her wedding plans as well as stand as her Maid of Honor. Who would have thought that little sis would turn into a mild Bridezilla needing Lauren’s constant attention – or that she’d run into a man she’d definitely crushed on in their younger days.
Mel left for college but returned to go into his father’s medical practice never intending or needing to go beyond his hometown. Heading out for a house call for a friend, the last person Mel expected to be treated for a flu bug was Lauren, back home briefly as Maid of Honor to his Best Man in the upcoming wedding. She’s still as lovely, if not more so than when he knew her but career obligations and interruptions are going to make that “catching up evening” difficult to manage.
I loved every moment spent in this stand-alone title of Christmas in Full Bloom. It’s full of small-town charm, interesting characters, a slow-burn romance, and adults dealing with location and their careers in a way that didn’t involve huge amounts of angst, or misunderstandings simply adults, well, adulting in love but with an eye to realistic expectations as well. This is why I enjoy this author’s stories so much, I can believe in what’s going on within the story, it has just enough “real life” to balance the unique love story of each couple. If you love a good romance, especially at Christmas-time with a believable couple that had choices to be made for their love to go any further then you’ll want to add this one to your “needs to be read” list – or give yourself an early Christmas present.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
October 21, 2021
This is the 1st book that I am reading by Denise N. Wheatley and she is a gem. Since reading Christmas In Full Bloom I went back purchased several more books by this author. If you’re looking for good reading then this is a great book to start your Christmas reading season off with.
The setting for this Christmas romance takes place in Maple Valley Michigan the home town of the hero Mel Jennings and heroine Lauren Beal. Lauren moved to Chicago to pursue of her dreams of floral designs with her best friend Sasha and business partner. Mel is a doctor now working with his father in his practice in the small town who Lauren left behind in Maple Valley.
Lauren is back in her home town of Maple Valley Michigan for her younger sister Tina’s holiday wedding; she is the maid of honor. When Lauren arrives at her sister’s home she has come down with winter bug. Her sister calls for the doctor expecting Mel’s dad but he’s the one to show up.
Will Mel and Lauren reconnect, can what they once shared be rekindled, will there be wedding in the future for them? Christmas comes early this October. Great questions right, pick up your copy today you will not be disappointed.
I received an ARC via Bookfunnel from the author and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
The setting for this Christmas romance takes place in Maple Valley Michigan the home town of the hero Mel Jennings and heroine Lauren Beal. Lauren moved to Chicago to pursue of her dreams of floral designs with her best friend Sasha and business partner. Mel is a doctor now working with his father in his practice in the small town who Lauren left behind in Maple Valley.
Lauren is back in her home town of Maple Valley Michigan for her younger sister Tina’s holiday wedding; she is the maid of honor. When Lauren arrives at her sister’s home she has come down with winter bug. Her sister calls for the doctor expecting Mel’s dad but he’s the one to show up.
Will Mel and Lauren reconnect, can what they once shared be rekindled, will there be wedding in the future for them? Christmas comes early this October. Great questions right, pick up your copy today you will not be disappointed.
I received an ARC via Bookfunnel from the author and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
October 22, 2021
Christmas in Full Bloom is a stand-alone family wedding Christmas romance by Denise N. Wheatley. This returning home for only a visit story gives Lauren Beal and Mel Jennings a second chance as they work together as maid of honor and best man. They have a history but one that is not marred by distrust. It is a time of sweet reconnecting for them
These are two busy individuals but they are such likable ones that it is easy to see how they would have such full lives. Their story is a common one but that serves to make it realistic and credible. As you read you are rooting for them to find the time and place for a lasting love in their lives. Somehow you know that they will regret it if they walk away from each other this time. An enjoyable Christmas family wedding romance.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own
These are two busy individuals but they are such likable ones that it is easy to see how they would have such full lives. Their story is a common one but that serves to make it realistic and credible. As you read you are rooting for them to find the time and place for a lasting love in their lives. Somehow you know that they will regret it if they walk away from each other this time. An enjoyable Christmas family wedding romance.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own
October 31, 2021
Christmas in Full Bloom was the first Holiday/Christmas book I've read so far this year, and it played out in my head like a Hallmark Christmas movie...which I love.
Both Mel and Lauren are workaholics who've (not so secretly) been crushing on each other for a while. I was so happy when they FINALLY made their feelings known to one another, even though it took a bit of strategic planning to actually go on a date. I thought they were perfect for each other and they each understood the complexities of having extremely demanding careers. In the end, Lauren and Mel realized that in order to be together, they had to MAKE the time for each other, and not let continuous (and I mean CONTINUOUS) interruptions keep them apart.
If you enjoy sweet/ small town/ holiday stories, you'll really like this one!
Both Mel and Lauren are workaholics who've (not so secretly) been crushing on each other for a while. I was so happy when they FINALLY made their feelings known to one another, even though it took a bit of strategic planning to actually go on a date. I thought they were perfect for each other and they each understood the complexities of having extremely demanding careers. In the end, Lauren and Mel realized that in order to be together, they had to MAKE the time for each other, and not let continuous (and I mean CONTINUOUS) interruptions keep them apart.
If you enjoy sweet/ small town/ holiday stories, you'll really like this one!
April 26, 2022
“As the sisters approached the coffee shop, Lauren inhaled deeply, relishing the fragrant scent of pine needles, baked goods and freshly brewed java wafting in the air.” — Denise N. Wheatley, Christmas in Full Bloom
It was the most wonderful season of the year, when Lauren, a hard-working Chicago entrepreneur, arrived in her hometown, Maple Valley, to help her sister with floral arrangements for her upcoming wedding. For Lauren, that holiday was a much needed getaway to discover that while her business was in full bloom, she never gave her heart a chance to form a flower bud. As Lauren’s sister said, “Life’s about more than just work and thriving in the big city.” I can’t agree more. By focusing merely on the career, we may unintentionally reject the Godsend true love.
Christmas in Full Bloom is an easygoing modern romantic story. I loved it!
It was the most wonderful season of the year, when Lauren, a hard-working Chicago entrepreneur, arrived in her hometown, Maple Valley, to help her sister with floral arrangements for her upcoming wedding. For Lauren, that holiday was a much needed getaway to discover that while her business was in full bloom, she never gave her heart a chance to form a flower bud. As Lauren’s sister said, “Life’s about more than just work and thriving in the big city.” I can’t agree more. By focusing merely on the career, we may unintentionally reject the Godsend true love.
Christmas in Full Bloom is an easygoing modern romantic story. I loved it!
October 21, 2021
Denis Wheatley is a terrific author. If you haven't read any of her other books you should do so immediately. Christmas in Full Bloom is a cute second chance romance. I'm personally a sucker for second chance romances and I love it when real adult choices are the reason the couple chose not to be together. I enjoyed the banter between the couple. The problem keeping these two apart is contemporary and common. Both are professionals, both value their careers so how to manage a relationship and not sacrifice what they've worked most of their life for. This was a great read. Highly recommend.
January 14, 2022
Hometown Christmas Wedding!
Great comfort read with a cup of hot tea on a cold dreary day. Wheatley cheerfully reminds us that Midwestern winters, for all their frustrations, have their own magic, too. Mel and Lauren are fun main characters--I don't think their love is ever really in question, but Wheatley makes you feel their comically awful timing! I loved living vicariously in Maple Valley: the food trucks, the festival games, the wedding prep, and all of Lauren's gorgeous flower arrangements!!
Great comfort read with a cup of hot tea on a cold dreary day. Wheatley cheerfully reminds us that Midwestern winters, for all their frustrations, have their own magic, too. Mel and Lauren are fun main characters--I don't think their love is ever really in question, but Wheatley makes you feel their comically awful timing! I loved living vicariously in Maple Valley: the food trucks, the festival games, the wedding prep, and all of Lauren's gorgeous flower arrangements!!
October 21, 2021
This is a sweet clean romance guaranteed to get you ready for Christmas
When Lauren Beal returns home to Maple Valley to visit her family she has no idea it may change her life She is an up and coming florist who co owns a floral art business in Chicago and perfectly content with her life But she reconnects with the local doctor Mel Jennings the college love she left behind the only problem is he is deeply connected to the town Can they have a future together You will have to read to see
When Lauren Beal returns home to Maple Valley to visit her family she has no idea it may change her life She is an up and coming florist who co owns a floral art business in Chicago and perfectly content with her life But she reconnects with the local doctor Mel Jennings the college love she left behind the only problem is he is deeply connected to the town Can they have a future together You will have to read to see
October 22, 2021
This is a second chance romance book. I loved the main characters I thought that they were perfect for each other. The story line had me smiling and laughing all the way through. Honestly what happens when two people really want to be together but both have worked so hard to be where they are. Will they be able to work it out or will they lose out on love a second time? I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2021
Missed opportunities, too many work calls, and time running out all work together to prevent a hometown doctor and a big city florist from connection at last. Cute story with lots of dialog and not just between the would be couple.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 30, 2021
Maple Valley Love
Love coming in full Bloom Mel and Lauren, I was so excited to read this book cozing up with this book I couldn't put it down for some reason. I absolutely love romance stories its so beautiful. Its my first time reading from this author I truly enjoyed this book.
Love coming in full Bloom Mel and Lauren, I was so excited to read this book cozing up with this book I couldn't put it down for some reason. I absolutely love romance stories its so beautiful. Its my first time reading from this author I truly enjoyed this book.
October 24, 2021
Christmas in Full Bloom is a sweet feel good holiday read. Wheatley grabs you by the heart and sweeps you off your feet. Mel and Lauren are a reminder never to forget what's important in both life and love.
February 9, 2022
Christmas in Full Bloom
I enjoyed the slow love reunion between Dr. Jennings and Lauren. Many onstage to overcome. I think the
Sister required or expected a lot from her self employed sister. It all worked out but it took a long time for the love to bloom
I enjoyed the slow love reunion between Dr. Jennings and Lauren. Many onstage to overcome. I think the
Sister required or expected a lot from her self employed sister. It all worked out but it took a long time for the love to bloom
December 30, 2024
Perfect Christmas Story
This story was sweet and tender. It was perfect for the Christmas season, and all of the characters were easy to identify with and love. Good writing
This story was sweet and tender. It was perfect for the Christmas season, and all of the characters were easy to identify with and love. Good writing
December 23, 2021
Holiday traditions, a wedding and a rekindled love makes for an amazing December read! I love reading about small town holiday traditions and how they draw members of the community together. I enjoyed Lauren's character; from the rebuilding of her and Mel's relationship, the love shown for her sister and her entrepreneurial spirit with In Full Bloom. Definite Hallmark/Lifetime Christmas movie vibes!
January 1, 2022
I loved the down home feel of Maple Valley and the warmth and joy of the holidays. Lauren is home by way of big city Chicago to help with her sister, Tina’s upcoming wedding when she crosses paths with the handsome town doctor, Mel. There’s instant chemistry and sparks and hopes of a budding romance. I really enjoyed this holiday story.
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