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L'adorable boutique de fleurs de Lily
Un feel good coloré, romantique, authentique et pétillant !
Le même jour, Lily rate une promotion pourtant méritée, et son petit ami se voit offrir un job à l'autre bout du monde : la jeune femme va devoir faire un choix ! Doit-elle embrasser la vie d'expatriée avec Matt, ou accomplir son rêve d'enfant et devenir fleuriste ?
Décidant de suivre son cœur, Lily quitte Sydney pour vivre avec sa tante près des côtes australiennes et décide de recommencer à zéro. Mais s'intégrer à la communauté très soudée de la petite ville s'avère plus difficile qu'elle ne le pensait. Alors qu'elle navigue entre de nouvelles amitiés, des soucis financiers et la tentation du retour à la vie citadine, Lily découvre que les fleurs peuvent lui apporter le bonheur qu'elle recherchait.
Et quand l'amour pointe de nouveau le bout de son nez, Lily réalise qu'elle ne peut pas s'engager avant d'avoir réparé ses erreurs. Saura-t-elle se réconcilier avec son passé et découvrir le vrai sens de l'amour ?
Le même jour, Lily rate une promotion pourtant méritée, et son petit ami se voit offrir un job à l'autre bout du monde : la jeune femme va devoir faire un choix ! Doit-elle embrasser la vie d'expatriée avec Matt, ou accomplir son rêve d'enfant et devenir fleuriste ?
Décidant de suivre son cœur, Lily quitte Sydney pour vivre avec sa tante près des côtes australiennes et décide de recommencer à zéro. Mais s'intégrer à la communauté très soudée de la petite ville s'avère plus difficile qu'elle ne le pensait. Alors qu'elle navigue entre de nouvelles amitiés, des soucis financiers et la tentation du retour à la vie citadine, Lily découvre que les fleurs peuvent lui apporter le bonheur qu'elle recherchait.
Et quand l'amour pointe de nouveau le bout de son nez, Lily réalise qu'elle ne peut pas s'engager avant d'avoir réparé ses erreurs. Saura-t-elle se réconcilier avec son passé et découvrir le vrai sens de l'amour ?
314 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2021
81 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
July 8, 2021
‘I’d forgotten how to breathe and observe. I’d forgotten how to sit quietly and just … be.’
Lily’s living in Sydney with her boyfriend Matt. She is in line for a promotion and is looking forward to it. Except … the promotion is awarded to someone else. That same day, Matt is offered a job overseas and assumes that Lily will be happy to accompany him. And Lily’s mum Daisy is certainly pushing her to go.
But Lily wants a change. Impulsively, she decides to resign from her job, to move to coastal New South Wales near her Aunt Iris and establish a flower shop. Lily completed a floristry course years ago, and she used to help her Aunt Iris in the flower shop she once owned. This is a big move for Lily, and one with its own set of challenges. Can Lily find a place in this small close-knit coastal community? Do she and Matt have a future? And importantly, how will Trouble the rabbit settle in?
Lily works hard and she enjoys her work, but she has financial issues as well as a few unresolved personal issues to deal with. She is making friends in Clearwater, but not everyone is friendly. And Matt still wants to be part of her life, which complicates matters when Lily meets Ben, the owner of a local winery. And there’s Andy, a nice man with a few challenges of his own.
I really enjoyed this novel, which I picked up after reading another review. It is light-hearted in places while dealing with some sensitive issues including domestic violence and mental health. There are some lovely characters and one or two villains as well.
Recommended.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Lily’s living in Sydney with her boyfriend Matt. She is in line for a promotion and is looking forward to it. Except … the promotion is awarded to someone else. That same day, Matt is offered a job overseas and assumes that Lily will be happy to accompany him. And Lily’s mum Daisy is certainly pushing her to go.
But Lily wants a change. Impulsively, she decides to resign from her job, to move to coastal New South Wales near her Aunt Iris and establish a flower shop. Lily completed a floristry course years ago, and she used to help her Aunt Iris in the flower shop she once owned. This is a big move for Lily, and one with its own set of challenges. Can Lily find a place in this small close-knit coastal community? Do she and Matt have a future? And importantly, how will Trouble the rabbit settle in?
Lily works hard and she enjoys her work, but she has financial issues as well as a few unresolved personal issues to deal with. She is making friends in Clearwater, but not everyone is friendly. And Matt still wants to be part of her life, which complicates matters when Lily meets Ben, the owner of a local winery. And there’s Andy, a nice man with a few challenges of his own.
I really enjoyed this novel, which I picked up after reading another review. It is light-hearted in places while dealing with some sensitive issues including domestic violence and mental health. There are some lovely characters and one or two villains as well.
Recommended.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
May 20, 2021
I loved this book! I loved the setting; I loved the characters; I loved the flowers. I felt truly relaxed on the Australian coast, even though Lily may not have shared my sentiments. A great read from Darcy.
When a promotion passes Lily by, she spontaneously decides to escape the corporate rat-race and move to Clearlake. Reminiscing about the time she worked with her aunt, Lily chooses to open up her own flower shop. It’s not something that Clearlake has and Lily feels she needs this complete change in order to find true happiness. Along the way, she meets plenty of the locals and they all add to the charm and warmth of the coast. However, Darcy does not wish to present a novel that is all roses and charm because Lily definitely struggles with running her own business. It is not something she has done before and I really appreciated how the writer showed that it was not going to be an easy transition.
Throughout the novel, Lily constantly worries about cash flow and ensuring she has enough to create a successful flower shop. Keeping her cottage in Sydney with the intention of using the rent for financial support, at first it would seem that Lily is actually doing ok. But, things do not go to plan and I soon Lily finds herself having to choose whether she wants to keep her connection open with Sydney, or make the move to Clearlake more permanent. Personally, I found it refreshing to read a story that was not all positive and to see how Lily would overcome these hurdles. As the novel progresses, Lily learns so much and it was lovely to share her journey.
There is a romantic interest in this story but I did not find it dominated the lovely flowery scenes. I could easily picture myself visiting Lily’s Flower shop and her excitement for her wares was certainly palpable. With support from friends nearby, Lily opens up like a flower’s bud and I desperately wanted her to succeed.
Occasionally the novel switches from Lily to Andy, a friend that she has made in Clearwater. This adds an extra dimension to the story as readers discover that Andy has a few secrets that are only gradually being revealed. The showdown that Andy has to experience in this story was quite awful and I could not help but feel sorry for such a nice man. He is described like a such a genuine friend and I wanted Andy to find his own happiness too.
This story blooms like the flowers themselves. I loved being transported to the Australian coast and actually liked it even more for the fact that the weather was not always blistering hot! Darcy’s writing vividly captured my imagination, sending my green fingers tingling for some time in the garden. A lovely story.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When a promotion passes Lily by, she spontaneously decides to escape the corporate rat-race and move to Clearlake. Reminiscing about the time she worked with her aunt, Lily chooses to open up her own flower shop. It’s not something that Clearlake has and Lily feels she needs this complete change in order to find true happiness. Along the way, she meets plenty of the locals and they all add to the charm and warmth of the coast. However, Darcy does not wish to present a novel that is all roses and charm because Lily definitely struggles with running her own business. It is not something she has done before and I really appreciated how the writer showed that it was not going to be an easy transition.
Throughout the novel, Lily constantly worries about cash flow and ensuring she has enough to create a successful flower shop. Keeping her cottage in Sydney with the intention of using the rent for financial support, at first it would seem that Lily is actually doing ok. But, things do not go to plan and I soon Lily finds herself having to choose whether she wants to keep her connection open with Sydney, or make the move to Clearlake more permanent. Personally, I found it refreshing to read a story that was not all positive and to see how Lily would overcome these hurdles. As the novel progresses, Lily learns so much and it was lovely to share her journey.
There is a romantic interest in this story but I did not find it dominated the lovely flowery scenes. I could easily picture myself visiting Lily’s Flower shop and her excitement for her wares was certainly palpable. With support from friends nearby, Lily opens up like a flower’s bud and I desperately wanted her to succeed.
Occasionally the novel switches from Lily to Andy, a friend that she has made in Clearwater. This adds an extra dimension to the story as readers discover that Andy has a few secrets that are only gradually being revealed. The showdown that Andy has to experience in this story was quite awful and I could not help but feel sorry for such a nice man. He is described like a such a genuine friend and I wanted Andy to find his own happiness too.
This story blooms like the flowers themselves. I loved being transported to the Australian coast and actually liked it even more for the fact that the weather was not always blistering hot! Darcy’s writing vividly captured my imagination, sending my green fingers tingling for some time in the garden. A lovely story.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2021
Lily is hoping for promotion in a big city firm. When she's overlooked, she decides to make sweeping changes to her life, moving to the coast and opening her own flower shop. Clearwater is a small community, where everyone knows everyone else's business, and the author introduces us to many of the local characters, and shows us how lives really do intertwine!
I really enjoyed this book, I found myself urging relationships to go in a certain way - the author really made everyone easy to like (or dislike if necessary!) Happy, sad, emotional, amusing, it is a perfect summer read.
I really enjoyed this book, I found myself urging relationships to go in a certain way - the author really made everyone easy to like (or dislike if necessary!) Happy, sad, emotional, amusing, it is a perfect summer read.
July 2, 2021
Lily’s Little Flower Shop is an engaging contemporary romantic comedy from Australian author Lisa Darcy (aka Lisa Heidke).
Passed over for a promotion she deserved, and unwilling to follow her boyfriend overseas, Lily impulsively decides to ditch the corporate rat race and become her own boss by opening a florist on the south coast of NSW.
I liked Lily, who throws herself into making the flower shop a success. Lily, whose floristry experience comes from helping her aunt in the flower shop she once owned and a long ago completed course, faces a steep learning curve as she launches her business. I think becoming your own boss is a dream that often tempts people, but it’s hard work that requires a huge ongoing investment of time and money. Lily is often exhausted and stressed about the financial viability of the decision she has made, and I like that the author doesn’t downplay the challenges Lily faces in following her heart.
Lily is supported by well-drawn, relatable characters. While her mother is certain that Lily’s sea-change is a mistake, her slightly eccentric aunt Iris, is always there to cheer her on, as is Lily’s former colleague and friend, Taylor, who becomes a regular visitor. The townspeople of Clearwater are largely welcoming, and Lily quickly befriends hairdresser Zena, and artist and picture framer, Andy. I really liked the genuine sense of community that Darcy evoked, and the diversity represented.
Lily tries to maintain a long distance relationship with Matt, who has relocated to Hong Kong, but it’s clear the two are incompatible. This leaves the way clear for Darcy to introduce romance in Clearwater, and Lily finds her self with two admirers, Ben - the owner of a local winery, and the aforementioned Andy. The men are quite different from each other, and Andy’s unusual backstory adds drama to the story in introducing the issues of domestic violence and mental health.
Lighthearted but with pleasing depth, told with warmth and humour, Lily’s Little Flower Shop is a bloomin’ good story.
Passed over for a promotion she deserved, and unwilling to follow her boyfriend overseas, Lily impulsively decides to ditch the corporate rat race and become her own boss by opening a florist on the south coast of NSW.
I liked Lily, who throws herself into making the flower shop a success. Lily, whose floristry experience comes from helping her aunt in the flower shop she once owned and a long ago completed course, faces a steep learning curve as she launches her business. I think becoming your own boss is a dream that often tempts people, but it’s hard work that requires a huge ongoing investment of time and money. Lily is often exhausted and stressed about the financial viability of the decision she has made, and I like that the author doesn’t downplay the challenges Lily faces in following her heart.
Lily is supported by well-drawn, relatable characters. While her mother is certain that Lily’s sea-change is a mistake, her slightly eccentric aunt Iris, is always there to cheer her on, as is Lily’s former colleague and friend, Taylor, who becomes a regular visitor. The townspeople of Clearwater are largely welcoming, and Lily quickly befriends hairdresser Zena, and artist and picture framer, Andy. I really liked the genuine sense of community that Darcy evoked, and the diversity represented.
Lily tries to maintain a long distance relationship with Matt, who has relocated to Hong Kong, but it’s clear the two are incompatible. This leaves the way clear for Darcy to introduce romance in Clearwater, and Lily finds her self with two admirers, Ben - the owner of a local winery, and the aforementioned Andy. The men are quite different from each other, and Andy’s unusual backstory adds drama to the story in introducing the issues of domestic violence and mental health.
Lighthearted but with pleasing depth, told with warmth and humour, Lily’s Little Flower Shop is a bloomin’ good story.
May 2, 2021
A brilliant book which had me engrossed from the beginning.
I loved the characters of Clearwater and especially the friendships formed between Lily, Zena and Andy and Lily’s friend Taylor and her Auntie Iris.
Lisa draws you into the story well and you can visualise being in Lily’s flower shop or Zena’s hair salon.
This is my first book by Lisa, and I look forward to reading more by her.
A nice easy read and one which I would definitely recommend.
A very worthy five stars.
I loved the characters of Clearwater and especially the friendships formed between Lily, Zena and Andy and Lily’s friend Taylor and her Auntie Iris.
Lisa draws you into the story well and you can visualise being in Lily’s flower shop or Zena’s hair salon.
This is my first book by Lisa, and I look forward to reading more by her.
A nice easy read and one which I would definitely recommend.
A very worthy five stars.
May 10, 2021
Lisa Darcy is a new author to me. This is a lovely romantic book set in Australia.
The story focuses on Lily (her mum and aunt also have flower themed names) and the ups and downs in her life and relationships. Will she get her happy ending?
A good combination of characters made this an enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more from this author.
The story focuses on Lily (her mum and aunt also have flower themed names) and the ups and downs in her life and relationships. Will she get her happy ending?
A good combination of characters made this an enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more from this author.
January 20, 2024
On the same day that Lily missed out on a huge promotion, her boyfriend Matt announced his work transfer overseas.
What's a girl to do? Lily really doesn't like the two options currently available: to continue working in a role that's she's unhappy with or follow Matt to Singapore, essentially becoming a trophy wife who does nothing but dine out, shop and socialise. If circumstances were different, sure, maybe, but right here and now, Lily doesn't want her identity to be stripped like that.
Luckily there's a third option, something that doesn't make her Mum too happy about. Quit her corporate job in busy Sydney and open a flower shop in peaceful Clearwater, situated on NSW's south coast.
Despite having previous experience in floristy, running your own business is something that Lily knows next to nothing about. Still, she plans to give it a good crack. Unlike many small businesses that succumb to financial reasons, Lily takes all these issues in stride. Thankfully she has a great cheer squad in her Aunty Iris, new buds Andy and Zena, a trio of golden oldies and bestie Taylor.
If only she could convince her mum and Matt that this is exactly where she needs to be. I absolutely hated the sheer pressure that they both placed on Lily. No means NO, something that Daisy and Matt can't seem to comprehend.
Lily's character development is inspiring. The further she immerses herself in the community, the more confident and happy she becomes. There's no doubt that this snap decision pays off in the end. Even if she has to put up with some nasty trouble makers along the way! Even a romcom needs a villain and bossy Pamela is her.
This is a sweet story filled with vibrant colour. As a passionate gardener, the time spent in Lily's flower shop was well spent. Other places I enjoyed visiting were the retirement home that April, Betty and Elsie resided in and Zena's salon. I know that Clearwater is a fictional town but it seems like a pleasant place! Also, Trouble is the cutest little bunny I've ever came across!
Ive had Lily's Little Flower Shop on my TBR list forever but was never able to obtain a copy until now. Thanks Kindle Unlimited for making it available!
4.75 🌟
What's a girl to do? Lily really doesn't like the two options currently available: to continue working in a role that's she's unhappy with or follow Matt to Singapore, essentially becoming a trophy wife who does nothing but dine out, shop and socialise. If circumstances were different, sure, maybe, but right here and now, Lily doesn't want her identity to be stripped like that.
Luckily there's a third option, something that doesn't make her Mum too happy about. Quit her corporate job in busy Sydney and open a flower shop in peaceful Clearwater, situated on NSW's south coast.
Despite having previous experience in floristy, running your own business is something that Lily knows next to nothing about. Still, she plans to give it a good crack. Unlike many small businesses that succumb to financial reasons, Lily takes all these issues in stride. Thankfully she has a great cheer squad in her Aunty Iris, new buds Andy and Zena, a trio of golden oldies and bestie Taylor.
If only she could convince her mum and Matt that this is exactly where she needs to be. I absolutely hated the sheer pressure that they both placed on Lily. No means NO, something that Daisy and Matt can't seem to comprehend.
Lily's character development is inspiring. The further she immerses herself in the community, the more confident and happy she becomes. There's no doubt that this snap decision pays off in the end. Even if she has to put up with some nasty trouble makers along the way! Even a romcom needs a villain and bossy Pamela is her.
This is a sweet story filled with vibrant colour. As a passionate gardener, the time spent in Lily's flower shop was well spent. Other places I enjoyed visiting were the retirement home that April, Betty and Elsie resided in and Zena's salon. I know that Clearwater is a fictional town but it seems like a pleasant place! Also, Trouble is the cutest little bunny I've ever came across!
Ive had Lily's Little Flower Shop on my TBR list forever but was never able to obtain a copy until now. Thanks Kindle Unlimited for making it available!
4.75 🌟
September 12, 2021
I've read all of Lisa Darcy's (Heidke) novels and each one provides a message on living life to the fullest.
Lily's Little flower Shop is a reminder to face life's challenges, and to follow your dreams.
If you need some inspiration on that front, then read this today!
Or if you just want to escape to the coast then you'll love the setting and the community living there.
LOVED IT!
Lily's Little flower Shop is a reminder to face life's challenges, and to follow your dreams.
If you need some inspiration on that front, then read this today!
Or if you just want to escape to the coast then you'll love the setting and the community living there.
LOVED IT!
April 30, 2022
Recensione presente nel blog www.ragazzainrosso.wordpress.com
Lily Mason vive a Sydney assieme al fidanzato Matt. È una donna in carriera, sempre col tailleur addosso, abituata a lavorare sodo per ottenere successo. Per lei c’è aria di promozione, ma proprio quando è convinta di avercela fatta, il ruolo le viene soffiato da un collega. Affranta e delusa, Lily prova a cercare conforto in Matt, che, nel frattempo, ha accettato di trasferirsi per lavoro a Singapore, il quale le propone di seguirlo. Questo, però, non è ciò che Lily vuole. Da sempre appassionata di fiori, la donna dà le dimissioni, lascia Sydney e si trasferisce sulla costa, in una piccola cittadina dove vive sua zia e lì decide di aprire il suo negozio di fiori. Tra nuove sfide da affrontare, incontri e problemi quotidiani per Lily è giunto il momento di cambiare e di realizzare quel sogno che ha sempre tenuto nascosto nel cassetto.
“I surfisti sguazzano su e giù per ore in attesa dell’onda perfetta. Noialtri, probabilmente, cerchiamo il terreno solido.”
Abbandonare il caos della metropoli e scegliere la tranquillità della vita in un piccolo centro costituisce, indubbiamente, una scelta importante poiché lo stile di vita e le opportunità sono completamente diverse. Se poi la scelta viene fatta d’impulso, come accade tra le pagine di questo romanzo, allora si può parlare di vero e proprio coraggio.
Lily Mason ha, almeno in apparenza, una vita perfetta ricca di gratificazioni a livello personale e professionale. È davvero fiera di sé e del suo lavoro, non le pesa essere la prima ad arrivare in ufficio, lavorare fino a tardi, concentrarsi sui suoi obiettivi. Quando, però, tutto il suo impegno non viene ricompensato, ecco che l’equilibrata e razionale Lily lascia il posto a una donna, per certi versi, folle. Pagina dopo pagina vediamo la protagonista concretizzare il suo sogno più grande e anche se gestire da sola un negozio partendo da zero non è facile, tutti sono pronti ad aiutarla. La comunità della cittadina è composta da persone delle quali si conoscono i nomi, i volti, le storie, non sono mere ombre come i tanti individui che ogni giorno Lily incontrava a Sydney. Pian piano la sua determinazione innata prende il sopravvento e man mano che confeziona composizioni floreali, ecco che aumenta la fiducia in se stessa e la certezza di aver fatto la scelta giusta. Partire, inoltre, rappresenta per lei la possibilità di ripensare alla sua intera esistenza e di sistemare tutto quello che non va, in primis il rapporto con Matt.
Molto importanti sono i ruoli svolti dai compaesani, personaggi attivi nella vicenda che supportano la protagonista e danno alla trama il giusto il brio. L’autrice delinea di ogni personaggio un ritratto psicologico, ne narra le vicissitudini e i fatti salienti della propria storia cosicché possano essere ben identificati.
Lo stile della prosa è semplice, fluido, scorrevole. Il lettore è costantemente coinvolto dagli eventi e non può non fare il tifo per la coraggiosa protagonista.
Un romanzo che unisce alla leggerezza della trama un messaggio importante qual è quello di non mettere mai da parte se stessi e i propri desideri. Una lettura che fa venire voglia di decorare la casa con fiori e piante.
Lily Mason vive a Sydney assieme al fidanzato Matt. È una donna in carriera, sempre col tailleur addosso, abituata a lavorare sodo per ottenere successo. Per lei c’è aria di promozione, ma proprio quando è convinta di avercela fatta, il ruolo le viene soffiato da un collega. Affranta e delusa, Lily prova a cercare conforto in Matt, che, nel frattempo, ha accettato di trasferirsi per lavoro a Singapore, il quale le propone di seguirlo. Questo, però, non è ciò che Lily vuole. Da sempre appassionata di fiori, la donna dà le dimissioni, lascia Sydney e si trasferisce sulla costa, in una piccola cittadina dove vive sua zia e lì decide di aprire il suo negozio di fiori. Tra nuove sfide da affrontare, incontri e problemi quotidiani per Lily è giunto il momento di cambiare e di realizzare quel sogno che ha sempre tenuto nascosto nel cassetto.
“I surfisti sguazzano su e giù per ore in attesa dell’onda perfetta. Noialtri, probabilmente, cerchiamo il terreno solido.”
Abbandonare il caos della metropoli e scegliere la tranquillità della vita in un piccolo centro costituisce, indubbiamente, una scelta importante poiché lo stile di vita e le opportunità sono completamente diverse. Se poi la scelta viene fatta d’impulso, come accade tra le pagine di questo romanzo, allora si può parlare di vero e proprio coraggio.
Lily Mason ha, almeno in apparenza, una vita perfetta ricca di gratificazioni a livello personale e professionale. È davvero fiera di sé e del suo lavoro, non le pesa essere la prima ad arrivare in ufficio, lavorare fino a tardi, concentrarsi sui suoi obiettivi. Quando, però, tutto il suo impegno non viene ricompensato, ecco che l’equilibrata e razionale Lily lascia il posto a una donna, per certi versi, folle. Pagina dopo pagina vediamo la protagonista concretizzare il suo sogno più grande e anche se gestire da sola un negozio partendo da zero non è facile, tutti sono pronti ad aiutarla. La comunità della cittadina è composta da persone delle quali si conoscono i nomi, i volti, le storie, non sono mere ombre come i tanti individui che ogni giorno Lily incontrava a Sydney. Pian piano la sua determinazione innata prende il sopravvento e man mano che confeziona composizioni floreali, ecco che aumenta la fiducia in se stessa e la certezza di aver fatto la scelta giusta. Partire, inoltre, rappresenta per lei la possibilità di ripensare alla sua intera esistenza e di sistemare tutto quello che non va, in primis il rapporto con Matt.
Molto importanti sono i ruoli svolti dai compaesani, personaggi attivi nella vicenda che supportano la protagonista e danno alla trama il giusto il brio. L’autrice delinea di ogni personaggio un ritratto psicologico, ne narra le vicissitudini e i fatti salienti della propria storia cosicché possano essere ben identificati.
Lo stile della prosa è semplice, fluido, scorrevole. Il lettore è costantemente coinvolto dagli eventi e non può non fare il tifo per la coraggiosa protagonista.
Un romanzo che unisce alla leggerezza della trama un messaggio importante qual è quello di non mettere mai da parte se stessi e i propri desideri. Una lettura che fa venire voglia di decorare la casa con fiori e piante.
April 28, 2021
Thank you to Bloodhound Books and Lisa Darcy for giving me the opportunity to read this fabulous novel in advance of publication.
What did I love? Everything! This warm-hearted, fast-paced romance is populated with quirky characters, each of whom (well, except for the dragon lady and a couple of other unsavoury types) quickly came to feel like family. I'm not sure how Lisa Darcy does it, but she has the knack of throwing us into the story very quickly, and keeping us invested in this community right through to the final page.
And there's depth woven into the shiny fabric, with serious issues given a healthy airing but not in a preachy way.
This is an honest review in exchange for an ARC, and I'm going to stop here before I spill any spoilers.
What did I love? Everything! This warm-hearted, fast-paced romance is populated with quirky characters, each of whom (well, except for the dragon lady and a couple of other unsavoury types) quickly came to feel like family. I'm not sure how Lisa Darcy does it, but she has the knack of throwing us into the story very quickly, and keeping us invested in this community right through to the final page.
And there's depth woven into the shiny fabric, with serious issues given a healthy airing but not in a preachy way.
This is an honest review in exchange for an ARC, and I'm going to stop here before I spill any spoilers.
May 5, 2024
Mon avis en Français
My English review
J’aime les romans légers et je me suis dit que celui-ci ferait parfaitement l’affaire.
Lily avait tout prévu, elle attend maintenant sa promotion. Mais non ! Elle est pour Glenn, cet incapable. C’est dur pour elle, tout son avenir est remis en question. Alors elle décide de tout plaquer. Pourquoi ne pas ouvrir une boutique de fleurs comme ce qu’elle voulait faire quand elle était plus jeune ? Mais ça veut dire abandonner Sidney, abandonner son compagnon et sa vie pour repartir de zéro. Pourtant ça sera loin d’être facile, parce qu’elle ne s’attendait pas à ce que tout tourne de travers, à ce que ça lui demande autant d’argent, à ce que ça lui prenne tout son temps.
Je m’attendais à un peu plus de rythme peut-être, parce que l’histoire traîne un peu, mais j’ai passé un bon moment. Lily est attendrissante et j’attendais de voir si elle parviendrait à s’épanouir dans cette nouvelle vie si différente de la précédente.
Une lecture sympathique au final.
My English review
J’aime les romans légers et je me suis dit que celui-ci ferait parfaitement l’affaire.
Lily avait tout prévu, elle attend maintenant sa promotion. Mais non ! Elle est pour Glenn, cet incapable. C’est dur pour elle, tout son avenir est remis en question. Alors elle décide de tout plaquer. Pourquoi ne pas ouvrir une boutique de fleurs comme ce qu’elle voulait faire quand elle était plus jeune ? Mais ça veut dire abandonner Sidney, abandonner son compagnon et sa vie pour repartir de zéro. Pourtant ça sera loin d’être facile, parce qu’elle ne s’attendait pas à ce que tout tourne de travers, à ce que ça lui demande autant d’argent, à ce que ça lui prenne tout son temps.
Je m’attendais à un peu plus de rythme peut-être, parce que l’histoire traîne un peu, mais j’ai passé un bon moment. Lily est attendrissante et j’attendais de voir si elle parviendrait à s’épanouir dans cette nouvelle vie si différente de la précédente.
Une lecture sympathique au final.
March 3, 2022
I’m in love with this book! The characters, the plot, everything! ⠀
I was hooked from the first word. Somehow, I was pulled in and intrigued by Lily and her life. I wanted to know what happens. And Lily’s life was so relatable. Not because of her past or even her struggles but I’m still looking for that happiness too. ⠀
The plot is great, it’s super easy to get into, it’s paced perfectly and there’s not a boring moment. I love the ending and I really want to know how the life in Clearwater continues⠀
All of the characters are complex and interesting and so, so real! I loved reading about them and I loved couples. It’s simply perfect!⠀
All in all, I think I’m still a bit overwhelmed and my review isn’t perfect but I absolutely loved everything about this book and I am so, so glad to got to read it.
Thank you to Love Books Tours for the free copy and for choosing me for the tour
I was hooked from the first word. Somehow, I was pulled in and intrigued by Lily and her life. I wanted to know what happens. And Lily’s life was so relatable. Not because of her past or even her struggles but I’m still looking for that happiness too. ⠀
The plot is great, it’s super easy to get into, it’s paced perfectly and there’s not a boring moment. I love the ending and I really want to know how the life in Clearwater continues⠀
All of the characters are complex and interesting and so, so real! I loved reading about them and I loved couples. It’s simply perfect!⠀
All in all, I think I’m still a bit overwhelmed and my review isn’t perfect but I absolutely loved everything about this book and I am so, so glad to got to read it.
Thank you to Love Books Tours for the free copy and for choosing me for the tour
July 27, 2021
Loved this book! The characters were fun to get to know, the setting was a real treat (I know the South NSW coast, so could imagine myself there easily from Lisa Darcy's descriptions) and the plot was entertaining. Highly recommnded.
May 15, 2021
At a time when I’ve become fed up with psychological thrillers promising so much yet delivering so little (although there are still a few exceptions) I’ve found myself turning my attention towards more feel good, uplifting romantic fiction. Lily’s Little Flower Shop slots into that genre nicely with the lead character embarking upon some drastic changes to her current lifestyle. Having missed out on a much longed for promotion Lily not only ditches her corporate life in Sydney but her boyfriend Matt too, whose current job necessitates a move to Singapore. Unwilling to accompany him overseas, Lily switches her hectic city life for the more laid back vibe of coastal resort Clearwater and her new business as the town’s only florist. This is somewhat of a brave decision, taking a leap into the unknown having no idea whether she can turn her new venture into a profitable business or not. Leaving her parents and best friend Taylor behind, the newly single Lily has only her aunt Iris close by for advice and moral support and her beloved pet rabbit Trouble to keep her company. Waving goodbye to the rat race and embracing new opportunities, Lily is determined to prove that money alone doesn’t bring happiness. You can’t put a price tag on that elusive emotion so forging new friendships and making at least one enemy out of the Clearwater townsfolk Lily will have you cheering her on from the sidelines as she attempts to discover what truly matters. If she happens to find lasting love of a romantic nature amongst the blooms then she might just come out of this smelling of roses!
Who doesn’t sometimes dream of swapping their current lifestyle for a less demanding yet more enriching one? For most of us these dreams will remain just that but for Lily her dreams become reality; losing that promotion is the impetus required to fulfil her ambition of being her own boss and now she’s taken those first few tentative steps there’s no stopping her! This is a storyline where quirky characters, a sense of community and plenty of romance collide to imbue the reader with a warm contented glow. Finding her feet in the floristry world and meeting other business owners such as Trish the real estate agent , Zena owner of the hairdressing salon, Andy a picture framer and artist and Ben who owns the local winery is just what she needs to take her mind off the absent Matt. Quickly forming solid friendships over more than one or two glasses of wine, the way is paved for the inevitable romantic element to arise but who will catch Lily’s eye? There’s the usual mix of characters to either love or hate but my favourite had to be Trouble, the rabbit who appears to be the least troublesome out of the lot of them! With Lily and her flower shop becoming a firm fixture in Clearwater, despite the nefarious attempts by one individual to make her feel unwelcome there is a valiant attempt by the author to inject some positive feel good energy into the storyline (and her readers lives!)
So whilst the concept is sound and none of the usual uplifting elements are missing what went wrong for me? Given that the protagonist wears her heart on her sleeve and there’s a diverse group of individuals created to suit all tastes, most of whom have Lily’s best interests at heart, it should have required no effort on my part to fall in love with this storyline. Except this author’s style of writing didn’t put me in the mood for love and romance in the way I’d hoped for. I know this will sound petty but Iris calling her niece (who’s thirty one!) Lily-Pily is just plain ridiculous; who uses such baby language for a grown woman?!? Rather than the residents of Clearwater appearing lovably quirky I found them odd and mostly one dimensional. Their backstories are either sketchy or don’t work as well as the author intends (the Andy/Edie dynamic) and I failed miserably in my efforts to like them, even though I tried so hard!! I struggled to visualise these characters as anything other than fictional whereas I normally expect with this type of read to form attachments to the central characters without any difficulties. Whether or not the fact I’ve read too many books of this ilk recently means my judgement is clouded is debatable but I can’t say I particularly enjoyed this novel; it’s simply ok and nothing more. I didn’t hate it but I didn’t love it either and compared to the mountain of books I’ve already devoured this year, unfortunately this one doesn’t measure up as favourably. My thanks to Bloodhound books for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Who doesn’t sometimes dream of swapping their current lifestyle for a less demanding yet more enriching one? For most of us these dreams will remain just that but for Lily her dreams become reality; losing that promotion is the impetus required to fulfil her ambition of being her own boss and now she’s taken those first few tentative steps there’s no stopping her! This is a storyline where quirky characters, a sense of community and plenty of romance collide to imbue the reader with a warm contented glow. Finding her feet in the floristry world and meeting other business owners such as Trish the real estate agent , Zena owner of the hairdressing salon, Andy a picture framer and artist and Ben who owns the local winery is just what she needs to take her mind off the absent Matt. Quickly forming solid friendships over more than one or two glasses of wine, the way is paved for the inevitable romantic element to arise but who will catch Lily’s eye? There’s the usual mix of characters to either love or hate but my favourite had to be Trouble, the rabbit who appears to be the least troublesome out of the lot of them! With Lily and her flower shop becoming a firm fixture in Clearwater, despite the nefarious attempts by one individual to make her feel unwelcome there is a valiant attempt by the author to inject some positive feel good energy into the storyline (and her readers lives!)
So whilst the concept is sound and none of the usual uplifting elements are missing what went wrong for me? Given that the protagonist wears her heart on her sleeve and there’s a diverse group of individuals created to suit all tastes, most of whom have Lily’s best interests at heart, it should have required no effort on my part to fall in love with this storyline. Except this author’s style of writing didn’t put me in the mood for love and romance in the way I’d hoped for. I know this will sound petty but Iris calling her niece (who’s thirty one!) Lily-Pily is just plain ridiculous; who uses such baby language for a grown woman?!? Rather than the residents of Clearwater appearing lovably quirky I found them odd and mostly one dimensional. Their backstories are either sketchy or don’t work as well as the author intends (the Andy/Edie dynamic) and I failed miserably in my efforts to like them, even though I tried so hard!! I struggled to visualise these characters as anything other than fictional whereas I normally expect with this type of read to form attachments to the central characters without any difficulties. Whether or not the fact I’ve read too many books of this ilk recently means my judgement is clouded is debatable but I can’t say I particularly enjoyed this novel; it’s simply ok and nothing more. I didn’t hate it but I didn’t love it either and compared to the mountain of books I’ve already devoured this year, unfortunately this one doesn’t measure up as favourably. My thanks to Bloodhound books for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2022
This is a perfect spring read, Happy, sad, and inviting - a really easy read and you’ll be flying through the pages.
Darcy has created likeable characters that I found myself drawn to, cheering them on from my sofa. I was rooting for Lily and Andy from the beginning so wondered if I had got it all wrong when Ben came along.
The story inspired me, in that things don’t always have to stay the same, that life is full of adventures and risk and you have to take big leaps to fulfill not only your dreams but your happiness too.
I was #gifted this book in exchange for an honest review and im so glad I was because I loved it!
Darcy has created likeable characters that I found myself drawn to, cheering them on from my sofa. I was rooting for Lily and Andy from the beginning so wondered if I had got it all wrong when Ben came along.
The story inspired me, in that things don’t always have to stay the same, that life is full of adventures and risk and you have to take big leaps to fulfill not only your dreams but your happiness too.
I was #gifted this book in exchange for an honest review and im so glad I was because I loved it!
March 20, 2022
I was delighted to find out this is set on the South Coast of NSW where I live even though it’s a made up town. I enjoyed reading about this woman who decides to take hold of her life once and for all and make her own decisions. It felt very realistic too with the struggles Lily has with her business. Things don’t just magically happen and a new business doesn’t just have over night success. Also Andy’s story, while very brief and could have been more in depth for my liking, I felt was a topic not really talked about. Domestic violence does happen to men and they do need help.
A very quick pace read about a woman finding her feet with her own business in a new town and finding love again.
A very quick pace read about a woman finding her feet with her own business in a new town and finding love again.
July 3, 2021
When Lily is passed over for a promotion, she makes the decision to quite her corporate job and follow her dream of owning a flower shop in a coastal town. Apart from managing her own business, she is also tackling challenges in her love life, with her mother and her finances. Will she cut her losses and move back to the city or will she stick it out and find her true home? This was a brilliant story that had a lot of great characters and one in particular that was easy to dislike. You must read this!
March 4, 2022
Many thanks to Love Books Tours and the author for a gifted eBook.
Lily’s Little Flower shop is ideal for lazy summer days on the beach. It’s light-hearted but with enough depth. Lily, for example, gave up everything to become a flower shop owner, but instead of describing her amazing and perfect new life, this book shows the difficulties of launching your own business. It’s hard work and Lily is often stressed and wonders if she’s made the right decision.
I also liked the combination of characters, and Iris in particular. She was fun and eccentric, and a really great aunt.
It was fun and easy to read, so if you’re looking for a nice summer read, you should check it out.
Lily’s Little Flower shop is ideal for lazy summer days on the beach. It’s light-hearted but with enough depth. Lily, for example, gave up everything to become a flower shop owner, but instead of describing her amazing and perfect new life, this book shows the difficulties of launching your own business. It’s hard work and Lily is often stressed and wonders if she’s made the right decision.
I also liked the combination of characters, and Iris in particular. She was fun and eccentric, and a really great aunt.
It was fun and easy to read, so if you’re looking for a nice summer read, you should check it out.
May 5, 2021
Lily wants out of corporate life and after being overlooked for promotion once again, she throws in towel, opens a florist’s shop in a beachside town and waves her boyfriend off to Singapore, where he’s just been posted.
She loves her new village life but it’s not all smooth sailing - Lily is still bruised by something in her past, torn about her ex who she still loves but realising they want different things, juggling her mother’s disapproval, and struggling to stay financially afloat.
Life is busy but complicated and love interests abound.
Trouble the bunny rabbit (my favorite character!) is the loyal pet watching on the sidelines as Lily’s love life navigates ambitious Matt, handsome Ben and mixed-up Adam.
New friends rally when an enemy tries to destroy her new life. And meanwhile Lily has to decide whether she’s rather be broke but happy by the beach or rich and bored living the city high life.
With a plethora of bumps, twists and turns, Lily’s journey of discovery is a delight to travel alongside. A treasure of a book for lovers of romance.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for a review copy.
She loves her new village life but it’s not all smooth sailing - Lily is still bruised by something in her past, torn about her ex who she still loves but realising they want different things, juggling her mother’s disapproval, and struggling to stay financially afloat.
Life is busy but complicated and love interests abound.
Trouble the bunny rabbit (my favorite character!) is the loyal pet watching on the sidelines as Lily’s love life navigates ambitious Matt, handsome Ben and mixed-up Adam.
New friends rally when an enemy tries to destroy her new life. And meanwhile Lily has to decide whether she’s rather be broke but happy by the beach or rich and bored living the city high life.
With a plethora of bumps, twists and turns, Lily’s journey of discovery is a delight to travel alongside. A treasure of a book for lovers of romance.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for a review copy.
May 10, 2021
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of Lily’s Little Flower Shop by Lisa Darcy from Bloodhound Publishers in exchange for an honest review. And it was an absolute delight. Not only was I completely engaged in Lily’s story, but also I was ready to head down the south coast in search of a more idyllic life, perhaps seek out Lily and make her my new best friend. This is a story of following your heart and being true to yourself – and Lisa totally captures the challenges, both past and present that her central character faces in doing this. Not only that, Lisa surrounds Lily with well-drawn relatable characters filled with warmth and humour. Lisa has a voice that is beautifully funny, sensitive and original. And she manages to explore the more serious issues behind her characters, while delivering a light-hearted, romantic and often very funny story. Thanks to Bloodhound Publishers for the opportunity to read this wonderfully satisfying novel that I couldn’t put down until I got the very end.
May 19, 2021
I really enjoyed reading about Lily's transformation from corporate professional to small town florist. She is expecting a well-deserved promotion but when she is passed over in favour of a mediocre man who's part of the boy's club, it's the last straw. She quits her job, and her boyfriend doesn't seem to understand why she's so upset. He wants her to move to Singapore and support his career, but Lily decides to forge her own path in Clearwater.
The details of Lily's life as a small business owner are realistic. It's a hard slog for not much money, but it's worth it because she gets to write her own story. There's a romance or two along the way as well, and secondary characters provide comedy and supportive advice.
This is a fun feel good read for anyone who's dreamt of escaping the rat race to join a beachside community.
**An ARC of this book was provided for an honest review**
The details of Lily's life as a small business owner are realistic. It's a hard slog for not much money, but it's worth it because she gets to write her own story. There's a romance or two along the way as well, and secondary characters provide comedy and supportive advice.
This is a fun feel good read for anyone who's dreamt of escaping the rat race to join a beachside community.
**An ARC of this book was provided for an honest review**
June 22, 2021
I really enjoyed this story of Lily, who leaves her high powered job in Sydney when she unfairly misses out on promotion. Her boyfriend thinks that she will now go with him to Singapore but Lily has other ideas and decides to follow her heart and start a new life on the coast.
With moral support from her aunt, Lily opens a flower shop in the coastal town of Clearwater. It’s a steep learning curve and Lily often feels out of her depth but with the help of new friends she starts to feel at home in her new environment.
There are so many well written characters in Lily’s Little Flower Shop and there are some poignant moments. Overall this is a feel good book with touches of romance and laughter.
I was given an ARC of this book and this review is my own opinion. Thanks to Bloodhound Books and the author for this book.
With moral support from her aunt, Lily opens a flower shop in the coastal town of Clearwater. It’s a steep learning curve and Lily often feels out of her depth but with the help of new friends she starts to feel at home in her new environment.
There are so many well written characters in Lily’s Little Flower Shop and there are some poignant moments. Overall this is a feel good book with touches of romance and laughter.
I was given an ARC of this book and this review is my own opinion. Thanks to Bloodhound Books and the author for this book.
May 12, 2021
Lily, a capable 30 something- year- old, gives up her cooperate job, city lifestyle and her boyfriend to head down the coast and open a flower shop. Her parents are aghast, her boyfriend bewildered and her best friend a wee bit jealous at her ability to just say “f##k it!” And that is what I loved about Lily. How many times have you entertained the idea of throwing caution to the wind and changing everything about your current life? Lily is a great character who I instantly warmed to. She is strong, cranky, kind and fun. I want to be her friend. The book raises the question of who or what is responsible for your happiness and are you brave enough to make choices that will ultimately displease some of the people you love. Highly recommended
Thank you Bloodhound Publishers for giving me the opportunity to have an advanced copy of the book to read in exchange for an honest review
Thank you Bloodhound Publishers for giving me the opportunity to have an advanced copy of the book to read in exchange for an honest review
May 17, 2021
This was a nice change to all the thrillers I've been reading lately and was a feel good book. Lily is overlooked for promotion at the high flying company she works at in Sydney and she resigns, leaving it all to go and open a flower shop on the coast, near her Aunt.
Her boyfriend, Matt, had assumed she would go with him to Singapore when he has a work opportunity, but she had other ideas!
She makes new friends as she learns what it takes to make a flower shop business work. The characters are realistic and are well developed.
I found it an enjoyable read with a good story and lots of laughs and joy.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Her boyfriend, Matt, had assumed she would go with him to Singapore when he has a work opportunity, but she had other ideas!
She makes new friends as she learns what it takes to make a flower shop business work. The characters are realistic and are well developed.
I found it an enjoyable read with a good story and lots of laughs and joy.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for an ARC in return for an honest review.
July 19, 2024
c’était pas ouf mais je mets trois étoiles parce que j’ai réussi à le finir 😜😜
May 4, 2021
This was a lovely and heartwarming read and I was hooked from the very first page and the characters were really relatable and easy to fall in love with and loved the descriptions of Clearwater made me want to visit. I loved how the story covered topics which were relatable to all in a very sensitive and real way. This book made me laugh and cry in equal measure and loved how everyone came together to support and help each other in times of need. A perfect escapism read would love a sequel to find out further adventures of the flower shop
May 10, 2021
A warm, bubbly read set in Australia taking a journey from city to coast.
Lily sets aside her workaholic life to set up a small business as a florist which brings different struggles of flowers and finances, and of course with a couple of choices of boyfriends with her nearly ex hovering in the background.
This was a very good book, it really felt that Lily chilled out as she slowly changes from city slicker to beach chick but I was slightly annoyed by how little everyone listened to her. The ending felt a bit swift but it was enjoyable.
Lily sets aside her workaholic life to set up a small business as a florist which brings different struggles of flowers and finances, and of course with a couple of choices of boyfriends with her nearly ex hovering in the background.
This was a very good book, it really felt that Lily chilled out as she slowly changes from city slicker to beach chick but I was slightly annoyed by how little everyone listened to her. The ending felt a bit swift but it was enjoyable.
May 14, 2021
Long gone is the idea that a career is for life, and that hard work and dedication automatically lead to success.
Lily, our corporate aspirant, has her career hopes dashed, and her love life thwarted.
More than just a ‘sea-change’, Lily creates a new life operating a flower shop in a sea-side town.
This is a story we all hear about, but fortunately, never experience. The author allows us to travel this traumatic road and captures the journey with colour and an engaging narrative.
It is a story of triumph over despair and the siren call of corporate largess.
A book for our times.
Lily, our corporate aspirant, has her career hopes dashed, and her love life thwarted.
More than just a ‘sea-change’, Lily creates a new life operating a flower shop in a sea-side town.
This is a story we all hear about, but fortunately, never experience. The author allows us to travel this traumatic road and captures the journey with colour and an engaging narrative.
It is a story of triumph over despair and the siren call of corporate largess.
A book for our times.
May 19, 2021
This is a newer author for me which I enjoyed this sweet book. I was pulled in right from the beginning and it kept me turning pages to the end. The characters are connectable and truly made the story for me. This is a story about Lily and the life choices she is faced with making. This is a story that is written with a lot of heart and soul. It will pull at your heart strings and it will make you happy at other times. The characters bring the story to life on each page. I highly recommend this book.
August 4, 2021
This is a story of a Lily a woman working hard ,and she was denied a promotion. Then her life need a change. So she followed her dreams, she moved to the coast, to start again. She became a florist. Lily, she having a new adventure in life with also little bumps in the road of life too. But the characters in the story are so entertaining, plus Lily is a wonder character that makes this book a fun romantic read. It takes courage to go for something you never done and Lily made it happen. I enjoyed the details of the story. And the places she start over for herself.
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