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These Bitter Blooms
In a world where magic means power, a "small" gift is a curse.
Thea was not blessed with power. Her gift of devouring plants and absorbing their hidden abilities does not make her stand out among her peers. Until a young man from the other side of the river sees something in her that no one else has seen before. When his family mercilessly strikes at her pride, he makes a point to ease the sting.
Alistair is not like his family. He has no interest in magic or wealth. He can see through the veil of the world into the faerie realm, and that has no use in his family. He never understood the desire to write to the girl across the river, but she turns his world of grey into a life of color. At the first opportunity, he meets with her. The second, he falls in love. And the third, he knows he wants to marry her.
Until the cities across the river go to war. Their lives are shattered, ripped apart, and thrown asunder. Then, ten years later, a chance meeting brings them back together. He needs a secretary. She needs a job. Neither realized they were about to be thrown into each other's arms once again. And this time, he doesn't intend to ever let her go.
Dark Academia meets, falls in love with, and then keeps Goblincore. For fans of witches, slow burn romances, and a little bit of magic, this page turner will wrap you up in a warm hug, snuggle you in a blanket, and hand you a hot cup of tea.
Thea was not blessed with power. Her gift of devouring plants and absorbing their hidden abilities does not make her stand out among her peers. Until a young man from the other side of the river sees something in her that no one else has seen before. When his family mercilessly strikes at her pride, he makes a point to ease the sting.
Alistair is not like his family. He has no interest in magic or wealth. He can see through the veil of the world into the faerie realm, and that has no use in his family. He never understood the desire to write to the girl across the river, but she turns his world of grey into a life of color. At the first opportunity, he meets with her. The second, he falls in love. And the third, he knows he wants to marry her.
Until the cities across the river go to war. Their lives are shattered, ripped apart, and thrown asunder. Then, ten years later, a chance meeting brings them back together. He needs a secretary. She needs a job. Neither realized they were about to be thrown into each other's arms once again. And this time, he doesn't intend to ever let her go.
Dark Academia meets, falls in love with, and then keeps Goblincore. For fans of witches, slow burn romances, and a little bit of magic, this page turner will wrap you up in a warm hug, snuggle you in a blanket, and hand you a hot cup of tea.
537 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 9, 2023
153 people are currently reading
3717 people want to read
About the author
Emma Hamm
75 books4,434 followers
We all know you don't really care about reading my background. Enjoy Cap instead.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
October 2, 2024
Do not read the synopsis; it gives the whole thing away (things that only happen at 60%)
If I were an annoying tiktoker I would use the tags for sunshine x sunshine, slow burn, cottage core academia, gothic haunted house. Emma Hamm did an amazing job at creating a wonderful world as the backdrop of a love story. Because; yes, I'm here for their romance, but also yes, I want the world to be interesting.
A bit weird when it came to pacing and some plots being introduced at the beginning but only reappearing at the 80% mark, but I'll be just fine.
February 16, 2023
3 Corpse Flower Stars ⭐️
I also have this strange feeling of amnesia with the plot. Whilst I could remember the story and plot when I had the book open in front of me. Since the plot was pretty weak in my opinion when I wasn't reading the book, I almost forgot the plot entirely and only remembered the V I B E S.
This book is into split pretty evenly between two points in history and follows the relationship developments between Thea and Alistair. Our two characters initially meet when they are teenagers on their mutual birthday when they are sent their witch familiars from a Goddess. After Thea is bullied and insulted by Alistair's family, he tries to make it right by using his Raven Familiar to send her an apology note. The two then become secret pen-pals and develop a beautiful and charming friendship which blossoms into young love. War ensues and estranges our dynamic duo, but 10 years later due to her financial desperation, Thea takes a job as a secretary. Unknowingly for both Thea and Alistair, she accepted the position as HIS secretary and so our couple is thrown back together again.
The writing is pretty whimsical and easy to read but it felt like I was reading two different books. The beginning "story", our characters are young and inexperienced which makes it feel like everything is very naive, optimistic and beautiful. However, in the second part we are thrown into a darker more mature world, post-war and are exposed to characters we have this vague memory of but have to reestablish the image of who they are now, with a lot of "told" not "shown" thrown into the reasons for why they are the way they are now.
Thea as a young girl is curious, a little reckless, and brave but very pure of heart. She sees the best in people even when they are wicked and does not judge based on appearances. She has many of these qualities as an adult but has developed into a woman who is slightly more reserved though still stubborn. Her power is seen as small to those around her as all she can do is take on the ability of the plants she eats.
Alistair has grown up with an awful father and family. They are abusive, cruel and almost evil. However, he has not let their torment corrupt his morals and standards and though he is afraid of them he sticks to his belief. He has a very special and rare ability that he can see into the Fae and God Realm. An ability those in power covet to be able to use (and abuse) the powers of the Gods.
I really did like the premise of the book and loved how the fantasy and fairy-lore elements were so easily woven into the story, as well as the initial romance. My main gripe is I think Thea forgave Alistair too quickly. I just wanted a little more conflict to be overcome as a result of the war and his connection to the war and inaction during the 10 years to be dealt with. It was almost too easy how they fell back in love with no consequence.
The aspect that threw this whole book for a curveball was the sudden character twist and inconsistency with who they had been for the majority of the book.
If I could only recommend the first half of this book then I would, because that gave me everything I needed - too bad about the second half ☹️
“For never was a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo." - William ShakespeareI really wanted to love this book but in the end, I really didn't. For the majority of the book, it was mostly just V I B E S. I had this overwhelming feeling of being enveloped in a warm, cosy, and comfortable hug in a fairy-touched world full of wonder and magic. But towards the end, I was unironically left with a bitter taste in my mouth.
I also have this strange feeling of amnesia with the plot. Whilst I could remember the story and plot when I had the book open in front of me. Since the plot was pretty weak in my opinion when I wasn't reading the book, I almost forgot the plot entirely and only remembered the V I B E S.
This book is into split pretty evenly between two points in history and follows the relationship developments between Thea and Alistair. Our two characters initially meet when they are teenagers on their mutual birthday when they are sent their witch familiars from a Goddess. After Thea is bullied and insulted by Alistair's family, he tries to make it right by using his Raven Familiar to send her an apology note. The two then become secret pen-pals and develop a beautiful and charming friendship which blossoms into young love. War ensues and estranges our dynamic duo, but 10 years later due to her financial desperation, Thea takes a job as a secretary. Unknowingly for both Thea and Alistair, she accepted the position as HIS secretary and so our couple is thrown back together again.
The writing is pretty whimsical and easy to read but it felt like I was reading two different books. The beginning "story", our characters are young and inexperienced which makes it feel like everything is very naive, optimistic and beautiful. However, in the second part we are thrown into a darker more mature world, post-war and are exposed to characters we have this vague memory of but have to reestablish the image of who they are now, with a lot of "told" not "shown" thrown into the reasons for why they are the way they are now.
Thea as a young girl is curious, a little reckless, and brave but very pure of heart. She sees the best in people even when they are wicked and does not judge based on appearances. She has many of these qualities as an adult but has developed into a woman who is slightly more reserved though still stubborn. Her power is seen as small to those around her as all she can do is take on the ability of the plants she eats.
Alistair has grown up with an awful father and family. They are abusive, cruel and almost evil. However, he has not let their torment corrupt his morals and standards and though he is afraid of them he sticks to his belief. He has a very special and rare ability that he can see into the Fae and God Realm. An ability those in power covet to be able to use (and abuse) the powers of the Gods.
I really did like the premise of the book and loved how the fantasy and fairy-lore elements were so easily woven into the story, as well as the initial romance. My main gripe is I think Thea forgave Alistair too quickly. I just wanted a little more conflict to be overcome as a result of the war and his connection to the war and inaction during the 10 years to be dealt with. It was almost too easy how they fell back in love with no consequence.
The aspect that threw this whole book for a curveball was the sudden character twist and inconsistency with who they had been for the majority of the book.
If I could only recommend the first half of this book then I would, because that gave me everything I needed - too bad about the second half ☹️
April 11, 2023
✰ 3 stars ✰
“The fae have learned that being remembered is more important than wealth or power. For if you are remembered, then you’ve already discovered immortality.”
If These Bitter Blooms had not had such a poorly timed time-skip, then this could have been a rather decent read. Sadly, it wasn't - in fact, after the time-skip, I trudged through this romance fantasy, in a slight attempt to grasp onto some sliver of a plot that would make me care about the characters' well-being.
And it frustrates me, because it was off to a nice start! I was enjoying this sweet soft and slow star-crossed romance blossoming between Alistair of Wildecliff and Thea of Waterdown. Sharing a birthday where they were both blessed with their familiars, they developed a special friendship in exchanged of letters over the next few years, which eventually led the two of them to venture into each other's worlds, as well. 😊😊 I loved the little details into each of their respective lives - the light of happiness in Thea's witchery world vs the dreary dismal darkness of Alistair's moody house and his equally foreboding family members. It felt nice to embrace all the joys and wonders of first love and how to act upon one's crush - what's not too much and what's just right.
"If there was to be a queen, Thea was the only one that sparkled in his eyes. Not for her beauty, although that was undeniable, and certainly not for her wit, for she was rather odd. But because looking at her made his soul feel full, and he had never felt that before."
But, with all the magical elements, with all the lovely nods to fairy tale creatures - that time-jump of 10 years made absolutely no sense, whatsoever! Was it just for the characters to be older, so their romance could advance to the next level? Wouldn't it have been better that whatever danger awaited Alistair and Thea could have been addressed earlier in their lives? It just felt so random and unnecessary that I just couldn't vibe with the chemistry that they felt upon reuniting. 😩😩 I would have preferred if their relationship could have just progressed at the pace that it was - why give us two years of their lives, if we're just going to gloss over TEN?
"He touched a hand to his heart and realized that the feeling in his chest was something he had never felt with anyone else. Thea was his favorite feeling, even though he didn’t have a name for it."
Yes, I'm vexed by it, if my words are anything to come by - because there definitely were some sweet moments before that I enjoyed! So very pure and innocent, the wonders of young love at sweet sixteen were described with such kindness that I would've hoped to have seen them develop their own magical powers at a gradual pace. 💞 Thea's family radiated love and warmth and such jovial care for her affections for Alistair - yet, in the future, they just got swept away! Alistair's challenges with his father and brothers made for some intrigue and darkness, but having them not even integral to the future seemed such a waste! Rather, we're introduced to a whole new problem that didn't have any reason to wait ten years to appear!
And the writing definitely started off strong - it was as light and airy as the characters' feelings were. But, it really did start floundering after the second part, and there's one thing that aggravates me the most is writers using 'Sure,' to start off a thought of a sentence. Like, no. If there's one thing that's the deciding factor if a story is going to be a hit or a miss is if a story can be written without it's inclusion. All in all, this was a bittersweet read, one that bloomed in me much disappointment and sadness that a story that had potential didn't meet up to expectations. 😔😔
“The fae have learned that being remembered is more important than wealth or power. For if you are remembered, then you’ve already discovered immortality.”
If These Bitter Blooms had not had such a poorly timed time-skip, then this could have been a rather decent read. Sadly, it wasn't - in fact, after the time-skip, I trudged through this romance fantasy, in a slight attempt to grasp onto some sliver of a plot that would make me care about the characters' well-being.
And it frustrates me, because it was off to a nice start! I was enjoying this sweet soft and slow star-crossed romance blossoming between Alistair of Wildecliff and Thea of Waterdown. Sharing a birthday where they were both blessed with their familiars, they developed a special friendship in exchanged of letters over the next few years, which eventually led the two of them to venture into each other's worlds, as well. 😊😊 I loved the little details into each of their respective lives - the light of happiness in Thea's witchery world vs the dreary dismal darkness of Alistair's moody house and his equally foreboding family members. It felt nice to embrace all the joys and wonders of first love and how to act upon one's crush - what's not too much and what's just right.
"If there was to be a queen, Thea was the only one that sparkled in his eyes. Not for her beauty, although that was undeniable, and certainly not for her wit, for she was rather odd. But because looking at her made his soul feel full, and he had never felt that before."
But, with all the magical elements, with all the lovely nods to fairy tale creatures - that time-jump of 10 years made absolutely no sense, whatsoever! Was it just for the characters to be older, so their romance could advance to the next level? Wouldn't it have been better that whatever danger awaited Alistair and Thea could have been addressed earlier in their lives? It just felt so random and unnecessary that I just couldn't vibe with the chemistry that they felt upon reuniting. 😩😩 I would have preferred if their relationship could have just progressed at the pace that it was - why give us two years of their lives, if we're just going to gloss over TEN?
"He touched a hand to his heart and realized that the feeling in his chest was something he had never felt with anyone else. Thea was his favorite feeling, even though he didn’t have a name for it."
Yes, I'm vexed by it, if my words are anything to come by - because there definitely were some sweet moments before that I enjoyed! So very pure and innocent, the wonders of young love at sweet sixteen were described with such kindness that I would've hoped to have seen them develop their own magical powers at a gradual pace. 💞 Thea's family radiated love and warmth and such jovial care for her affections for Alistair - yet, in the future, they just got swept away! Alistair's challenges with his father and brothers made for some intrigue and darkness, but having them not even integral to the future seemed such a waste! Rather, we're introduced to a whole new problem that didn't have any reason to wait ten years to appear!
And the writing definitely started off strong - it was as light and airy as the characters' feelings were. But, it really did start floundering after the second part, and there's one thing that aggravates me the most is writers using 'Sure,' to start off a thought of a sentence. Like, no. If there's one thing that's the deciding factor if a story is going to be a hit or a miss is if a story can be written without it's inclusion. All in all, this was a bittersweet read, one that bloomed in me much disappointment and sadness that a story that had potential didn't meet up to expectations. 😔😔
January 14, 2023
This is a romance focused cottage core story with a time jump! The first half is a sweet YA, and then the back half gets more into an adult nature. Its full of fae, spirits, brownies and all kinds of gentle witchy magic. Its full of ominous houses, unique magic and true love.
What worked for me was the premise. I loved the sweet sensitive hero paired with a kind sensitive heroine. I enjoyed the small bits of magic that seemed unique to the story and gave it some quirk. This is a innocent love that turns into a more mature love as time goes on.
What I ultimately came to find is that this book just wasn't for me. I couldn't vibe with the writing style and I did feel like there were so many loose ends and sudden character inconsistencies/shifts that just didn't make sense. The beginning time line is confusing and it doesn't show me enough that they have developed this ever lasting love from what is on page. When they reconnect as adults theres no build up at all even though there has been 10 years...I felt like they needed to talk more to figure out what the other had been doing for the past decade! The ending was a 180 from the rest of the book which also felt a bit jarring. Ultimately I usually don't love books that are romance more than plot centered and a majority of this book was focused on the romance which for me made it slow and dragged out...I just wanted more balance with the plot content storyline.
I think Emma has her fan base, and i'm sad that this just didn't work out for me.
What worked for me was the premise. I loved the sweet sensitive hero paired with a kind sensitive heroine. I enjoyed the small bits of magic that seemed unique to the story and gave it some quirk. This is a innocent love that turns into a more mature love as time goes on.
What I ultimately came to find is that this book just wasn't for me. I couldn't vibe with the writing style and I did feel like there were so many loose ends and sudden character inconsistencies/shifts that just didn't make sense. The beginning time line is confusing and it doesn't show me enough that they have developed this ever lasting love from what is on page. When they reconnect as adults theres no build up at all even though there has been 10 years...I felt like they needed to talk more to figure out what the other had been doing for the past decade! The ending was a 180 from the rest of the book which also felt a bit jarring. Ultimately I usually don't love books that are romance more than plot centered and a majority of this book was focused on the romance which for me made it slow and dragged out...I just wanted more balance with the plot content storyline.
I think Emma has her fan base, and i'm sad that this just didn't work out for me.
January 12, 2023
This book is my personality. Period.
First thing first: I need to thank Emma for granting me an ARC of this complete beauty. If I could give this more than 5 stars, I would. I loved every second of it.
I don’t know about others, but for me, this book represents everything that made me a reader as a kid. While reading, I kept thinking that this is it, this is the book I've been searching for. It's cozy, it's soft and it's full of magic, topped with a Romeo and Juliet plot (except they both live in the end and actually get to know one another).
I absolutely love Emma's writing and the way she creates these whimsical worlds. Her stories always leave me feeling wrapped up in a warm blanket with the amount of pure love these characters get to share and this book wasn't different.
This was just what I needed and when I needed it.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Meter: .5🌶️
Heat Scale: 🔥🔥
First thing first: I need to thank Emma for granting me an ARC of this complete beauty. If I could give this more than 5 stars, I would. I loved every second of it.
I don’t know about others, but for me, this book represents everything that made me a reader as a kid. While reading, I kept thinking that this is it, this is the book I've been searching for. It's cozy, it's soft and it's full of magic, topped with a Romeo and Juliet plot (except they both live in the end and actually get to know one another).
I absolutely love Emma's writing and the way she creates these whimsical worlds. Her stories always leave me feeling wrapped up in a warm blanket with the amount of pure love these characters get to share and this book wasn't different.
This was just what I needed and when I needed it.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Meter: .5🌶️
Heat Scale: 🔥🔥
January 11, 2023
Somehow I managed to snag an ARC of These Bitter Blooms & I absolutely DEVOURED this book! It was everything & more than I expected!
This book is the embodiment of cozy snuggles, sips of hot tea & young love mixed with cottagecore/dark academia vibes, enchantments, & deep family connections! This book was not only wholesome & pure joy, but also filled with secrets, plot twists & a bit of heartbreak. It is rare for me to read books where you truly feel sweetness & kindness flooding the pages while also feeling like you’re on an epic quest but Emma did just that through her PHENOMENAL writing. Hope and joy overwhelmed me while reading this book & it reminded me to take a breath from time to time enjoy the little moments of life.
These Bitter Blooms is a cozy fantasy & was a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for me & was one of my top reads of 2022. It is a MUST READ in my opinion & would definitely check it out ASAP!
This book is the embodiment of cozy snuggles, sips of hot tea & young love mixed with cottagecore/dark academia vibes, enchantments, & deep family connections! This book was not only wholesome & pure joy, but also filled with secrets, plot twists & a bit of heartbreak. It is rare for me to read books where you truly feel sweetness & kindness flooding the pages while also feeling like you’re on an epic quest but Emma did just that through her PHENOMENAL writing. Hope and joy overwhelmed me while reading this book & it reminded me to take a breath from time to time enjoy the little moments of life.
These Bitter Blooms is a cozy fantasy & was a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for me & was one of my top reads of 2022. It is a MUST READ in my opinion & would definitely check it out ASAP!
February 16, 2023
A romance fantasy book inspired by celtic lore, giving Romeo and Julliet vibes. We have two cities, that are very different from each other. One colourful, happy and loving, the other dark, cold and selfish. Everyone in the cities follow these stereotypes. People in city B care only about power and themselves. Except for our hero, of course.
The first half of this book focuses on our leads meeting each other as children. It is very slow, and not all that much happens. This period is two? one? year? No one knows because it seems to change. Age wise, it's definitely two, because they go from 16 to 18. It's mentioned too: Almost two years since they had met each other. but then a few pages further we find There’s a young lady I’ve been writing to for almost a year now .
From there on, it's mostly called a year, with the occasional "after all these years."No one would suspect a thing, and then they could finally see each other again. After all these years. Does two years could as all these years??
This isn't the only inconsistency in this book. We have berries shifting from blackberries to raspberries in just a few paragraphs, for example:
He burped and then shoved his hands into the small cup of blackberries she’d placed next to him.
Turning into: He rolled his eyes at her and popped another juicy raspberry into his mouth. It's on the same page??? How did no one notice this when editing this book?
Our hero, who spends the whole book complaining about his city, his family, his house, who, when visiting the happy town is surprised and likes it so much then tells our heroine:
So you could see how much better it is here!
He doesn't even believe that? He hates his life? It feels like he only says this so there's a reason for them to break up, and that's especially pointless with the war starting right after it.
The characters' personalities aren't very consistent either. The worldbuilding is solid enough, but for a heavily celtic inspired fantasy, why is Hecate there? Every other fae or god seems to be Celtic inspired, so Hecate feels out of place.
The second part of the book is after the war. The war itself is skipped. After ten years they meet up again. And suddenly the slow burn romance goes really quickly and without any actual development. As if their childhood friendship/budding romance was enough development. Despite 10 years of not meeting, and a whole war that destroyed their villages/families.
In this part too are some things that make very little sense.
If she placed it on her tongue, she’d have the strength of ten men. She doesn't take it, though and half a paragraph later complains:
The damned thing was even heavier to carry now, suddenly more burdensome as she realized she wasn’t going to a fairytale job." Maybe the strength of 10 men would have been useful when carrying a heavy case? No?
Or that point where our male lead seems to have forgotten he sold most of the furniture in his house to pay of depts and remarks how this other man's house would be less lavish then his (almost empty, dusty, desolate) house. Maybe, [...] she’d prefer the pale man’s home. Sure, it wouldn’t be as lavish.
The writing is fine, but the editing definitely needed work. There are a lot of weird sentences.
She wouldn’t forget when her spell cut Thea’s ear off. Now would she?
Why is there a period? this should be one sentence?
And while that was terrifying to such a young man, it had made him quieter than his brothers.
The while implies a contrast but terriying things making someone quieter makes sense? so it made him would be so much more natural?
and her bright yellow dress was made from more petals than what he thought might be a rose.
What does this even mean?
You went to the same school as your brothers and yet you all forget that.
The yet makes no sense? If they all learned the same things, it's obvious they haven't been taught the same things? Without the "all" would work too, as in, he had the same education, but is the only one who forgets..
simultaneously terrified her and excited her at the same time.
simultaneously at the same time.
And then there's our male leads slightly incel tendences that were not a good look either:
Every step that brought him closer to his room made him angrier. How dare she? After everything they’d gone through together, everything they had done, she wanted to marry someone else? He had put all of his heart and soul into loving her! Sure he hadn’t told her that yet. But that didn’t mean she could forget him this easily!
He only hears a rumour that some people might pick a husband at 18, while they're 18, and he gets SO angry that she might pick someone over him, because they... were friends? Maybe they had kissed here, I'm not sure. But still, just because he loves her (although she doesn't even know this) she has to of course only marry him, because wow, how dare she make her own decisions, I guess.
The first half of this book focuses on our leads meeting each other as children. It is very slow, and not all that much happens. This period is two? one? year? No one knows because it seems to change. Age wise, it's definitely two, because they go from 16 to 18. It's mentioned too: Almost two years since they had met each other. but then a few pages further we find There’s a young lady I’ve been writing to for almost a year now .
From there on, it's mostly called a year, with the occasional "after all these years."No one would suspect a thing, and then they could finally see each other again. After all these years. Does two years could as all these years??
This isn't the only inconsistency in this book. We have berries shifting from blackberries to raspberries in just a few paragraphs, for example:
He burped and then shoved his hands into the small cup of blackberries she’d placed next to him.
Turning into: He rolled his eyes at her and popped another juicy raspberry into his mouth. It's on the same page??? How did no one notice this when editing this book?
Our hero, who spends the whole book complaining about his city, his family, his house, who, when visiting the happy town is surprised and likes it so much then tells our heroine:
So you could see how much better it is here!
He doesn't even believe that? He hates his life? It feels like he only says this so there's a reason for them to break up, and that's especially pointless with the war starting right after it.
The characters' personalities aren't very consistent either. The worldbuilding is solid enough, but for a heavily celtic inspired fantasy, why is Hecate there? Every other fae or god seems to be Celtic inspired, so Hecate feels out of place.
The second part of the book is after the war. The war itself is skipped. After ten years they meet up again. And suddenly the slow burn romance goes really quickly and without any actual development. As if their childhood friendship/budding romance was enough development. Despite 10 years of not meeting, and a whole war that destroyed their villages/families.
In this part too are some things that make very little sense.
If she placed it on her tongue, she’d have the strength of ten men. She doesn't take it, though and half a paragraph later complains:
The damned thing was even heavier to carry now, suddenly more burdensome as she realized she wasn’t going to a fairytale job." Maybe the strength of 10 men would have been useful when carrying a heavy case? No?
Or that point where our male lead seems to have forgotten he sold most of the furniture in his house to pay of depts and remarks how this other man's house would be less lavish then his (almost empty, dusty, desolate) house. Maybe, [...] she’d prefer the pale man’s home. Sure, it wouldn’t be as lavish.
The writing is fine, but the editing definitely needed work. There are a lot of weird sentences.
She wouldn’t forget when her spell cut Thea’s ear off. Now would she?
Why is there a period? this should be one sentence?
And while that was terrifying to such a young man, it had made him quieter than his brothers.
The while implies a contrast but terriying things making someone quieter makes sense? so it made him would be so much more natural?
and her bright yellow dress was made from more petals than what he thought might be a rose.
What does this even mean?
You went to the same school as your brothers and yet you all forget that.
The yet makes no sense? If they all learned the same things, it's obvious they haven't been taught the same things? Without the "all" would work too, as in, he had the same education, but is the only one who forgets..
simultaneously terrified her and excited her at the same time.
simultaneously at the same time.
And then there's our male leads slightly incel tendences that were not a good look either:
Every step that brought him closer to his room made him angrier. How dare she? After everything they’d gone through together, everything they had done, she wanted to marry someone else? He had put all of his heart and soul into loving her! Sure he hadn’t told her that yet. But that didn’t mean she could forget him this easily!
He only hears a rumour that some people might pick a husband at 18, while they're 18, and he gets SO angry that she might pick someone over him, because they... were friends? Maybe they had kissed here, I'm not sure. But still, just because he loves her (although she doesn't even know this) she has to of course only marry him, because wow, how dare she make her own decisions, I guess.
December 8, 2022
To say I became fully immersed in this story is an understatement. I completely threw myself into it. 🥰
I always love Emma’s world building but this was next level. It’s a whole world filled with magic and witches and a house that totally gave me Encanto vibes. (Just me🤷♀️)
The book is split into two parts. The first is set when Thea and Alistair are young. It’s very much a coming-of-age story here and we see them meet each other for the first time as they try to navigate through life with magic and their families.
The second part is set 10 years later after the war where they meet each other again after having no contact with one another for some time.
I loved this book. The whole magic element added with the slow burn romance was just the icing on the cake for me. Honestly, I haven’t read a book from Emma that I didn’t love. I’m trying really hard here to not give any spoilers 😳🤐🤐
If you love slow burn romances, witches, familiars, Fae lore, then this book is for you.
Thank you so much to @emmahammauthor for the arc. This review is given by me voluntarily ✌️
I always love Emma’s world building but this was next level. It’s a whole world filled with magic and witches and a house that totally gave me Encanto vibes. (Just me🤷♀️)
The book is split into two parts. The first is set when Thea and Alistair are young. It’s very much a coming-of-age story here and we see them meet each other for the first time as they try to navigate through life with magic and their families.
The second part is set 10 years later after the war where they meet each other again after having no contact with one another for some time.
I loved this book. The whole magic element added with the slow burn romance was just the icing on the cake for me. Honestly, I haven’t read a book from Emma that I didn’t love. I’m trying really hard here to not give any spoilers 😳🤐🤐
If you love slow burn romances, witches, familiars, Fae lore, then this book is for you.
Thank you so much to @emmahammauthor for the arc. This review is given by me voluntarily ✌️
January 11, 2023
I was so lucky to have been given the arc for These Bitter Blooms. I’m not lying when I say I devoured this book. It was so good!!
Think warm hugs, cottagecore vibes, swoon-worthy slow burn romance with a sprinkle of spiciness, familiars that you will adore, steaming cups of peppermint tea, the smell of an older home filled with grimoires and secrets, witches, fae lore, young love, unique magic and abilities, academia vibes and secrets, butterflies in your tummy and happy tears.
This story captures perfectly the feeling of first love, feuding witch families, plot twists, and our main characters finding their strength and courage. Thea is a fierce, positive force of nature who lives with her mother and two sisters in a cozy home in the woods across the river from Alistair - and is his polar opposite. Alistair is a shy, ball of nervous energy that tries to stay in the shadows of his father and two brothers - all who are not very nice witches at all.
Together, these two meet during an important step in their young witchling lives and decide to keep in touch through letters. Emma delivered on the sweet romance in this book. I was obsessed with their love, adoration and respect for each other.
We are given two major time points in this story. Part one is during their time together as young witches, then the second half is ten years later where so many things have changed - but something’s haven’t at all.
Without spoiling, I will say this is one of my favorite reads of the year for sure. The story progresses beautifully and will have you so nervous right up until the end. We are given a beautiful HEA and left with the warm fuzzies instead of crippling book hangover. This book launches into the world January 9th, 2023. You will not want to let this gem of a book slip by - add it to your TBR asap!!!
Think warm hugs, cottagecore vibes, swoon-worthy slow burn romance with a sprinkle of spiciness, familiars that you will adore, steaming cups of peppermint tea, the smell of an older home filled with grimoires and secrets, witches, fae lore, young love, unique magic and abilities, academia vibes and secrets, butterflies in your tummy and happy tears.
This story captures perfectly the feeling of first love, feuding witch families, plot twists, and our main characters finding their strength and courage. Thea is a fierce, positive force of nature who lives with her mother and two sisters in a cozy home in the woods across the river from Alistair - and is his polar opposite. Alistair is a shy, ball of nervous energy that tries to stay in the shadows of his father and two brothers - all who are not very nice witches at all.
Together, these two meet during an important step in their young witchling lives and decide to keep in touch through letters. Emma delivered on the sweet romance in this book. I was obsessed with their love, adoration and respect for each other.
We are given two major time points in this story. Part one is during their time together as young witches, then the second half is ten years later where so many things have changed - but something’s haven’t at all.
Without spoiling, I will say this is one of my favorite reads of the year for sure. The story progresses beautifully and will have you so nervous right up until the end. We are given a beautiful HEA and left with the warm fuzzies instead of crippling book hangover. This book launches into the world January 9th, 2023. You will not want to let this gem of a book slip by - add it to your TBR asap!!!
October 16, 2022
I received an ARC in turn for an honest review.
I was very excited to start reading this story. As I really love Emma’s writing, this book sounded amazing! The story starts off as the main characters, Thea and Alistair, are seventeen years old and meet each other for the first time. The first part of the story feels like a ‘coming of age’ story and is quite slow paced. It is nice however, to see the main characters grow into adulthood. The second part of the story takes place ten years later, after the war. Thea and Alistair are now adults and after years of no contact, they meet again.
The book is quite slow paced, especially in the first half. In the second half, more things start to happen, which makes it more exciting to read. It feels like of a coming of age story with a touch of magic and a slow burn romance. It is not an action-packed book.
I did however really love the magic in this world. Every character had their own magical gift and gifts that might have seemed small, were much bigger of a gift than thought! Also, the world, the cities, were amazingly built.
If you love a cute romance story, with magic, witches and a slow burn romance, this might be a book for you!
I was very excited to start reading this story. As I really love Emma’s writing, this book sounded amazing! The story starts off as the main characters, Thea and Alistair, are seventeen years old and meet each other for the first time. The first part of the story feels like a ‘coming of age’ story and is quite slow paced. It is nice however, to see the main characters grow into adulthood. The second part of the story takes place ten years later, after the war. Thea and Alistair are now adults and after years of no contact, they meet again.
The book is quite slow paced, especially in the first half. In the second half, more things start to happen, which makes it more exciting to read. It feels like of a coming of age story with a touch of magic and a slow burn romance. It is not an action-packed book.
I did however really love the magic in this world. Every character had their own magical gift and gifts that might have seemed small, were much bigger of a gift than thought! Also, the world, the cities, were amazingly built.
If you love a cute romance story, with magic, witches and a slow burn romance, this might be a book for you!
February 19, 2023
4 stars
This book captivated me from page one.
This was a slow-burn fantasy romance with the most beautiful world and atmosphere.
I adored Thea and Alistair. They're my babies from the moment I met them till the end. The romance was beautiful. If you like soft touches and whispered words and pure romantic vibes this is definitely for you.
Now... the fantasy elements were amazing. So amazing now I want a Toad pet and I'm afraid of Toads so.. 😅
Also, that third act was mindblowing and worth the wait.
Overall this was a fabulous read and I recommend it.
This book captivated me from page one.
This was a slow-burn fantasy romance with the most beautiful world and atmosphere.
I adored Thea and Alistair. They're my babies from the moment I met them till the end. The romance was beautiful. If you like soft touches and whispered words and pure romantic vibes this is definitely for you.
Now... the fantasy elements were amazing. So amazing now I want a Toad pet and I'm afraid of Toads so.. 😅
Also, that third act was mindblowing and worth the wait.
Overall this was a fabulous read and I recommend it.
March 31, 2023
I AM LOVING THIS BOOK SO MUCH! Each and every chapter I finish makes me want to read more and more. I feel so grateful to have picked this book..
This book is everything I love about a book that transports you to a Gothic place with rivaling witch families. But our two MCs, Thea and Alistair blossom a very sweet friendship despite the hate between their families. They write letters to each other and their familiars help transport them. The familiar have character of their own and they are the most interesting and adorable creatures I've read about. I love the world building and family dynamics which are focal points of this story.
Thea has the power to absorb plants in her body directly while Alistair can see through the veil and interact with fae. The friendship and yearning is absolutely adorable. It was hard to stop reading this books and it makes me excited every time I think about it.
This book is everything I love about a book that transports you to a Gothic place with rivaling witch families. But our two MCs, Thea and Alistair blossom a very sweet friendship despite the hate between their families. They write letters to each other and their familiars help transport them. The familiar have character of their own and they are the most interesting and adorable creatures I've read about. I love the world building and family dynamics which are focal points of this story.
Thea has the power to absorb plants in her body directly while Alistair can see through the veil and interact with fae. The friendship and yearning is absolutely adorable. It was hard to stop reading this books and it makes me excited every time I think about it.
March 2, 2023
Emma Hamm is an instant-buy for me. I was (and am) so honored to have received an Advanced Readers Copy of These Bitter Blooms in exchange for an honest review.
I love Thea and Alistair with my whole heart and I just want to wrap them in a blanket and give them all of the Julia Quinn second Epilogues that I could ever dream of.
Somehow, Emma Hamm has combined my two loves of fantasy and Pride and Prejudice in this spell binding coming of age tale.
We follow Thea and Alistair, who, growing up in opposite lives, start an unlikely friendship via letters. Watching these two idiots (affectionate) sort through their feelings, find their way to each other, and grow up? Unparalleled.
This book pulled me out of a reading slump and cleared my skin.
Reading this book is like being tucked in by your favorite Aunt who gives you incredible life mantras to hold on to forever and an eternity. It’s like a warm bowl of your favorite soup or a cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter day. It warms the soul and curls your toes.
One of my favorite things about Emma Hamm’s world building is that it’s not busy— the worlds are so lively and picturesque, and yet she doesn’t take chapters and chapters to build it up. You simply read, breathe, and smell the worlds she envisions when she writes. These Bitter Blooms is no exception. At this point, with the effortlessness she creates these worlds, I would be remiss to not think she was fae.
I will easily recommend These Bitter Blooms to anyone and everyone. All hail our reigning Queen Emma Hamm.
I love Thea and Alistair with my whole heart and I just want to wrap them in a blanket and give them all of the Julia Quinn second Epilogues that I could ever dream of.
Somehow, Emma Hamm has combined my two loves of fantasy and Pride and Prejudice in this spell binding coming of age tale.
We follow Thea and Alistair, who, growing up in opposite lives, start an unlikely friendship via letters. Watching these two idiots (affectionate) sort through their feelings, find their way to each other, and grow up? Unparalleled.
This book pulled me out of a reading slump and cleared my skin.
Reading this book is like being tucked in by your favorite Aunt who gives you incredible life mantras to hold on to forever and an eternity. It’s like a warm bowl of your favorite soup or a cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter day. It warms the soul and curls your toes.
One of my favorite things about Emma Hamm’s world building is that it’s not busy— the worlds are so lively and picturesque, and yet she doesn’t take chapters and chapters to build it up. You simply read, breathe, and smell the worlds she envisions when she writes. These Bitter Blooms is no exception. At this point, with the effortlessness she creates these worlds, I would be remiss to not think she was fae.
I will easily recommend These Bitter Blooms to anyone and everyone. All hail our reigning Queen Emma Hamm.
January 6, 2023
I received an ARC of These Bitter Blooms for an honest review.
One of my favorite things about Emma's writing is that it is SO consumable and she hit it out of the park yet again with this one.
I could not put this book down. I was actively dodging my boss at work all day because I just could not stop thinking about it.
Thea and Alistair are one of my favorite couples ever. They are just so perfect for each other and I absolutely just melted when the soft, innocent, slow burn moments played out.
The world was interesting and engaging without being too much at any given time, I never felt overwhelmed by the information I was receiving. Learning about the different lives and upbringing of the two MCs was engaging and I can't forget to mention Browning. "Ribbit" 😂
I squealed with joy often and felt dread in my gut at times too. I laughed, I cried, I just never wanted it to end.
Thank you for once again sending me through a perfect emotional ride, I loved it.
One of my favorite things about Emma's writing is that it is SO consumable and she hit it out of the park yet again with this one.
I could not put this book down. I was actively dodging my boss at work all day because I just could not stop thinking about it.
Thea and Alistair are one of my favorite couples ever. They are just so perfect for each other and I absolutely just melted when the soft, innocent, slow burn moments played out.
The world was interesting and engaging without being too much at any given time, I never felt overwhelmed by the information I was receiving. Learning about the different lives and upbringing of the two MCs was engaging and I can't forget to mention Browning. "Ribbit" 😂
I squealed with joy often and felt dread in my gut at times too. I laughed, I cried, I just never wanted it to end.
Thank you for once again sending me through a perfect emotional ride, I loved it.
January 11, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review:
I love every single word that Emma Hamm writes. She is so intentional and thoughtful with her words and this book is no different.
The first half of this book is slow and sweet. It’s magical watching these two kids fall in love. While there is no major action in the first half, it is so cozy and wonderful experiencing their young love as well as watching the world be built.
The second half of the book picks up tremendously. It’s more serious and filled with a beautiful story of redemption and love.
This book has cottage core, dark academia, and fantasy vibes. It is so beautiful and FULL. I absolutely recommend if you’re looking for something innocent and sweet to experience. The pacing is quite slow at times, but it was exactly what I needed for an end of month read 🫶🏼
I love every single word that Emma Hamm writes. She is so intentional and thoughtful with her words and this book is no different.
The first half of this book is slow and sweet. It’s magical watching these two kids fall in love. While there is no major action in the first half, it is so cozy and wonderful experiencing their young love as well as watching the world be built.
The second half of the book picks up tremendously. It’s more serious and filled with a beautiful story of redemption and love.
This book has cottage core, dark academia, and fantasy vibes. It is so beautiful and FULL. I absolutely recommend if you’re looking for something innocent and sweet to experience. The pacing is quite slow at times, but it was exactly what I needed for an end of month read 🫶🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2023
Cozy and warm, goblincore and dark academia mixing perfectly.
August 7, 2023
what a cute fantasy romance omg :(
October 23, 2022
𝐇𝐞’𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫. 𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬. 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐲 𝐛𝐚𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫. 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐥𝐲, 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐝𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬, 𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫.
𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐢𝐦, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐮𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝. 𝐇𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞, 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫.
“𝐈’𝐝 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞.”
“𝐇𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐚 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐠𝐢𝐟𝐭, 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐠𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐰𝐞’𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝.”
“𝐔𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡, 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
____________________
This book was a whole, breathtaking journey and even though I finished it days ago I am still basking in its warm glow. It feels timeless and classic while still fresh and new, dances the line between fairytale and cold reality, and delivers both a young, innocent first love romance and a powerful second chance romance full of beauty, tragedy, forgiveness, and pure magic.
Thea Earthshaker is a witch from Waterdown with what is known as a small gift. She eats flowers and each one provides her with a “power” in a different, small way. Finally seventeen years old, she visits Ceridwen’s altar to be given her familiar and become a true witch. While there she meets a boy named Alistair, of the powerful Orbweaver family from the town of Wildecliff across the river, who is also there on his birthday to receive his familiar. After a hostile interaction between their parents, Alistair decides to write Thea a letter of apology which she returns and in turn begins a deep, budding friendship. What follows is a pen-pal friends to lovers story that warms and fills your heart just before tragedy and a time jump strike, leaving your heart in a lurch before finally delivering a masterful second chance romance and an ending more than worthy of Thea and Alistair.
Thea and Alistair. They are just everything. It took me roughly 3 chapters to declare them my babies and vow to protect them at all cost!! Watching them grow as individuals and together, seeing how much courage and inspiration they bring to each other’s lives, and watching how they overcame the world around them to stay true to themselves, their hearts, and each other was absolutely stunning. Watching Thea grow and especially the turns she takes toward the end of the book were incredible and she has officially cemented herself as one of my all time favorite characters. Alistair is just an absolute gem. His heart, his integrity, and the ties his magic gives him to the Fae hidden in their world combined with the amount of care, love, and respect between him and the Fae is absolutely FANTASTIC and brought me to tears more than once. Their story as friends and then as a couple is just beautiful. I’m in awe and cannot say enough about them.
The Orbweaver family was tragic, terrifying, and honestly so easy to both despise and pity at the same time. In stark contrast, Thea’s relationship with her mother and sisters was so reminiscent of a magical, witchy Little Women that you can’t help but feel like you’re a member of their family as well. And then there are the familiars, Atlas and Browning…love is not a strong enough word for how much I ABSOLUTELY ADORE them!!
I will never be able to say enough about this book. It could easily rank up there with classics such as Little Women, Romeo and Juliet, and The Secret Garden, while also finding its home among both fantasy and contemporary romance readers alike. So get this book on your TBR ASAP and start 2023 off right!!
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with a copy of this stunning story in exchange for my honest review.
𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐢𝐦, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐮𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝. 𝐇𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞, 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫.
“𝐈’𝐝 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞.”
“𝐇𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐚 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐠𝐢𝐟𝐭, 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐠𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐰𝐞’𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝.”
“𝐔𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡, 𝐈’𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
____________________
This book was a whole, breathtaking journey and even though I finished it days ago I am still basking in its warm glow. It feels timeless and classic while still fresh and new, dances the line between fairytale and cold reality, and delivers both a young, innocent first love romance and a powerful second chance romance full of beauty, tragedy, forgiveness, and pure magic.
Thea Earthshaker is a witch from Waterdown with what is known as a small gift. She eats flowers and each one provides her with a “power” in a different, small way. Finally seventeen years old, she visits Ceridwen’s altar to be given her familiar and become a true witch. While there she meets a boy named Alistair, of the powerful Orbweaver family from the town of Wildecliff across the river, who is also there on his birthday to receive his familiar. After a hostile interaction between their parents, Alistair decides to write Thea a letter of apology which she returns and in turn begins a deep, budding friendship. What follows is a pen-pal friends to lovers story that warms and fills your heart just before tragedy and a time jump strike, leaving your heart in a lurch before finally delivering a masterful second chance romance and an ending more than worthy of Thea and Alistair.
Thea and Alistair. They are just everything. It took me roughly 3 chapters to declare them my babies and vow to protect them at all cost!! Watching them grow as individuals and together, seeing how much courage and inspiration they bring to each other’s lives, and watching how they overcame the world around them to stay true to themselves, their hearts, and each other was absolutely stunning. Watching Thea grow and especially the turns she takes toward the end of the book were incredible and she has officially cemented herself as one of my all time favorite characters. Alistair is just an absolute gem. His heart, his integrity, and the ties his magic gives him to the Fae hidden in their world combined with the amount of care, love, and respect between him and the Fae is absolutely FANTASTIC and brought me to tears more than once. Their story as friends and then as a couple is just beautiful. I’m in awe and cannot say enough about them.
The Orbweaver family was tragic, terrifying, and honestly so easy to both despise and pity at the same time. In stark contrast, Thea’s relationship with her mother and sisters was so reminiscent of a magical, witchy Little Women that you can’t help but feel like you’re a member of their family as well. And then there are the familiars, Atlas and Browning…love is not a strong enough word for how much I ABSOLUTELY ADORE them!!
I will never be able to say enough about this book. It could easily rank up there with classics such as Little Women, Romeo and Juliet, and The Secret Garden, while also finding its home among both fantasy and contemporary romance readers alike. So get this book on your TBR ASAP and start 2023 off right!!
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with a copy of this stunning story in exchange for my honest review.
February 10, 2024
Enchanting and vivid, cottagecore meets dark academia in this wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance, but....
Don't get me wrong, I like this book! The settings and world building tickled that part of my brain that itched at the description "cottagecore meets dark academia." The romance is sweet and adorable, and I like both main characters.
This is a good book with an interesting premise that seemed to simultaneously use and ignore conventional tropes. The characters are flawed with plenty of gray area as well as the black and white. Thea and Alistair balance each other out, and it's so refreshing to see these childhood sweethearts grow into adults, how their emotions and convictions are molded by the years, and how they come back together again.
I almost wish we could have had more world-building with the magic and the fae. There are so many different types of magic - Thea's powers are so rich and Alistair's Orbweaver magic - and so many different fae. I wish I could sit down and Alistair could teach me all about it!
However, I feel like this could have been a duology or a trilogy. This book can be split into two parts with a ten-year time jump in the middle. Very little time was spent fleshing out TEN YEARS of anger and resentment when suddenly, they are confessing that they still love each other and accepting it. What happened during the war? This is where there could have been a 2nd or even a 3rd book.
While I love Alistair and Thea's characters, their open mind and open hearts, Alistair and Nora make a big deal about how much he's changed in ten years, When Thea arrived, he was so worried about how much he's changed to survive in Wildcliff during and post-war, but then he just keeps acting the same. Until the end.. Alistair acted quite out of character at the end when he was so naive and trusting After a lifetime spent not trusting anyone except the household fae, this was very out of character and only served to trigger the climax of the story.
A minor quibble I had was with the familiars. They were only there as a way for these two kids across the river to communicate as is evident in the second half of the novel when you hardly ever hear about Browning or Atlas. It also felt like there was a weird detachment between witches and familiars with very little love shown between them. Thea makes a big point that the familiar is not a pet nor a servant but a creature to be respected, but while Browning is trying to take care of her and help her, he'd rather be off somewhere else doing anything else and Thea is just exasperated with him. As for Atlas, we hear very little about him, especially in the latter half.
Overall, this is a good book that with potential for expansion into an even richer and more atmospheric duology or trilogy, but perhaps that's for the fans to create themselves!
P.S. I started this book, then put it down at the halfway mark before the big jump, because I'm a big mood reader and conflict and heartbreak chase me away. Once I picked it back up, I sped through it like lightning and wonder why it took me so long in the first place 😅
Don't get me wrong, I like this book! The settings and world building tickled that part of my brain that itched at the description "cottagecore meets dark academia." The romance is sweet and adorable, and I like both main characters.
This is a good book with an interesting premise that seemed to simultaneously use and ignore conventional tropes. The characters are flawed with plenty of gray area as well as the black and white. Thea and Alistair balance each other out, and it's so refreshing to see these childhood sweethearts grow into adults, how their emotions and convictions are molded by the years, and how they come back together again.
I almost wish we could have had more world-building with the magic and the fae. There are so many different types of magic - Thea's powers are so rich and Alistair's Orbweaver magic - and so many different fae. I wish I could sit down and Alistair could teach me all about it!
However, I feel like this could have been a duology or a trilogy. This book can be split into two parts with a ten-year time jump in the middle. Very little time was spent fleshing out TEN YEARS of anger and resentment when suddenly, they are confessing that they still love each other and accepting it. What happened during the war? This is where there could have been a 2nd or even a 3rd book.
While I love Alistair and Thea's characters, their open mind and open hearts, Alistair and Nora make a big deal about how much he's changed in ten years, When Thea arrived, he was so worried about how much he's changed to survive in Wildcliff during and post-war, but then he just keeps acting the same. Until the end.. Alistair acted quite out of character at the end when he was so naive and trusting After a lifetime spent not trusting anyone except the household fae, this was very out of character and only served to trigger the climax of the story.
A minor quibble I had was with the familiars. They were only there as a way for these two kids across the river to communicate as is evident in the second half of the novel when you hardly ever hear about Browning or Atlas. It also felt like there was a weird detachment between witches and familiars with very little love shown between them. Thea makes a big point that the familiar is not a pet nor a servant but a creature to be respected, but while Browning is trying to take care of her and help her, he'd rather be off somewhere else doing anything else and Thea is just exasperated with him. As for Atlas, we hear very little about him, especially in the latter half.
Overall, this is a good book that with potential for expansion into an even richer and more atmospheric duology or trilogy, but perhaps that's for the fans to create themselves!
P.S. I started this book, then put it down at the halfway mark before the big jump, because I'm a big mood reader and conflict and heartbreak chase me away. Once I picked it back up, I sped through it like lightning and wonder why it took me so long in the first place 😅
January 25, 2023
Witches. A book and witches but in a weird realistic kinda way. The author did a fantastic job making you feel that it was just a little, old town that had odd people who could do some a small things like grow plants really well or eat them and gain feelings from them.
Girl- Thea was likable and so quirky. She's ate plants to make her feel calm.
Boy- another wizard but more powerful that could see the other side of the veil (fairy world). They liked him and he protected them from being seen.
Problem- Alistair was Thea's other half, on the other side of the river. Different kinda lives, one easy going, kinda poor, very loved kinda family. The other from a cold, evil, rich, powerful family. They found each other despite their different lives and families.
The story went quickly and was enjoyable but lacking strong emotions. In one part, the town burns down and I was like... Yep, Dad's a evil man and we knew this was coming then... Boom- Dad, who was the big protagonist and Alistair's cruel brothers are all dead (no idea how). Umm Kay....
Zoom forward and Alistair who has no money and is trying to fix the house who has to sell all the old furniture in the house to get by, hires a secretary and pays really well (not in knowing it was Thea he was hiring after being apart 10 years). They fall back in love and he is being pressured to show the veil or fairy world to his boss (academy) and he said no. He is poisoned the old childhood enemy but the fairies and god save him to bring him back to his love, Thea, who at the time found out she had stronger powers and was avenging his death with plants.
Fast forward- they are free from the evil curse of the house and go back to see/live with her family.
Add in a few cold rooms, eating plants, spider webs, poison, freckles, lots of color, and special pets and ta-da... The book.
Girl- Thea was likable and so quirky. She's ate plants to make her feel calm.
Boy- another wizard but more powerful that could see the other side of the veil (fairy world). They liked him and he protected them from being seen.
Problem- Alistair was Thea's other half, on the other side of the river. Different kinda lives, one easy going, kinda poor, very loved kinda family. The other from a cold, evil, rich, powerful family. They found each other despite their different lives and families.
The story went quickly and was enjoyable but lacking strong emotions. In one part, the town burns down and I was like... Yep, Dad's a evil man and we knew this was coming then... Boom- Dad, who was the big protagonist and Alistair's cruel brothers are all dead (no idea how). Umm Kay....
Zoom forward and Alistair who has no money and is trying to fix the house who has to sell all the old furniture in the house to get by, hires a secretary and pays really well (not in knowing it was Thea he was hiring after being apart 10 years). They fall back in love and he is being pressured to show the veil or fairy world to his boss (academy) and he said no. He is poisoned the old childhood enemy but the fairies and god save him to bring him back to his love, Thea, who at the time found out she had stronger powers and was avenging his death with plants.
Fast forward- they are free from the evil curse of the house and go back to see/live with her family.
Add in a few cold rooms, eating plants, spider webs, poison, freckles, lots of color, and special pets and ta-da... The book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2022
These Bitter Blooms by Emma Hamm is a NA fantasy, cottagecore with a sprinkle of dark academia. About two young witches from very different lifestyles meeting and becoming very close friends and more. Even through so many struggles, family feuds and distance they still manage to find a way to one another.
There is just something about Emma's writing that is undeniable. This book was such an amazingly sweet and whimsical story! It's a true coming of age, so if you're into progression of a characters life then this is for you.. For part of the book they are 17 years old and the other half they are grown adults. Thea and Alistair learn how to be friends from a distance due to being afraid of the negative consequences from his family. She is carefree, honest and open, while he is a loner, timid and shy. So you can see where they begin to learn and grow together. But then something goes terribly wrong and fast forward 10 years later!
This book has so many romantic and beautiful moments where I couldn't help but swoon over these two. It is heartbreaking but yet happy and sweet. It's a perfect cozy book with slow burn and amazing magical elements that you won't want to miss out on. I felt it had elements of Alice in Wonderland meets Tim Burton style (atleast that how the imagery came to me). I really wish I'd gotten more of Thea's mom, as she was such a big part of her life. Overall a great witchy read.
Release date: 1/9/2023
Thank you Emma for gifting me with this wonderful arc.
Tw: bullying
There is just something about Emma's writing that is undeniable. This book was such an amazingly sweet and whimsical story! It's a true coming of age, so if you're into progression of a characters life then this is for you.. For part of the book they are 17 years old and the other half they are grown adults. Thea and Alistair learn how to be friends from a distance due to being afraid of the negative consequences from his family. She is carefree, honest and open, while he is a loner, timid and shy. So you can see where they begin to learn and grow together. But then something goes terribly wrong and fast forward 10 years later!
This book has so many romantic and beautiful moments where I couldn't help but swoon over these two. It is heartbreaking but yet happy and sweet. It's a perfect cozy book with slow burn and amazing magical elements that you won't want to miss out on. I felt it had elements of Alice in Wonderland meets Tim Burton style (atleast that how the imagery came to me). I really wish I'd gotten more of Thea's mom, as she was such a big part of her life. Overall a great witchy read.
Release date: 1/9/2023
Thank you Emma for gifting me with this wonderful arc.
Tw: bullying
October 27, 2022
I am such a fan of Emma’s work and seeing she was branching out (woodland witch pun intended) had me so excited to be an ARC for this venture. These bitter blooms is a gem for anyone who finds themselves rooting for a pair of star crossed lovers but make it cottage core cozy. I fell completely in love with the landscape of each of our MC’s lives and watching those worlds collide was *chefs kiss* so good. It’s one of those slow burns that really stays with you because it’s just so fulfilling to see unfold.
I think my only critique would be that I wanted more honestly, or perhaps a spin off from this world. While I adored our main characters, Emma also gave us a house of incredible sounding women with their own unique stories that I would also have loved to hear. Our female MC Thea is such an absolute powerhouse of goodness, strength, and resilience that it left me wanting more of the women who shaped her(namely her mom).
If you love a good romantasy and with some incredibly unique (but very cool) magic and a few lovable familiars then I would absolutely give this one a read. All the stars.
I think my only critique would be that I wanted more honestly, or perhaps a spin off from this world. While I adored our main characters, Emma also gave us a house of incredible sounding women with their own unique stories that I would also have loved to hear. Our female MC Thea is such an absolute powerhouse of goodness, strength, and resilience that it left me wanting more of the women who shaped her(namely her mom).
If you love a good romantasy and with some incredibly unique (but very cool) magic and a few lovable familiars then I would absolutely give this one a read. All the stars.
October 9, 2022
This is a beautiful story of young love with the addition of magic and fae. It brought me back to when I was a teen falling in love for the first time. It beautifully captures all those first time butterflies and awkward moments, and blossoms into something eternal and worth fighting for. I found the story to be entirely unique compared to anything I’ve read. The world building was great. There is a certain little critter that had me wrapped around his finger from the very first meeting. If you enjoy innocent love, magic, other worldly creatures and good versus evil give this a read.
October 9, 2022
I was very happy to have been chosen to receive an advanced copy of this book!
This story is fairly different from the other stories I have read from Emma, and while I enjoyed it, it definitely progressed a little slower than some of her other novels.
This is not really a criticism, rather more to prepare others to know, this is not a fairytale with a traditional strong hero/heroine and a universal enemy to overcome.
I felt the novel was more if an ode to the insecurities of young love, youth, and the feeling of belonging. We all understand the feeling of being greater, but at the same time helpless in the face of situations we cannot control: family, culture, societies, etc. The feelings of being an outsider in your own world and how to overcome and find yourself...even if those hidden parts contain ugly parts of yourself capable of real destruction and death.
I felt this was a beautiful painting of growth through adversity and finding strength in love and forgiveness. This is not a novel filled with, necessarily, easy to identify evil. It is far more complex than that. No one in this novel is perfect. No one always can or always will do the right thing. It's so incredibly human and I believe that is where the magic truly is.
This story is fairly different from the other stories I have read from Emma, and while I enjoyed it, it definitely progressed a little slower than some of her other novels.
This is not really a criticism, rather more to prepare others to know, this is not a fairytale with a traditional strong hero/heroine and a universal enemy to overcome.
I felt the novel was more if an ode to the insecurities of young love, youth, and the feeling of belonging. We all understand the feeling of being greater, but at the same time helpless in the face of situations we cannot control: family, culture, societies, etc. The feelings of being an outsider in your own world and how to overcome and find yourself...even if those hidden parts contain ugly parts of yourself capable of real destruction and death.
I felt this was a beautiful painting of growth through adversity and finding strength in love and forgiveness. This is not a novel filled with, necessarily, easy to identify evil. It is far more complex than that. No one in this novel is perfect. No one always can or always will do the right thing. It's so incredibly human and I believe that is where the magic truly is.
October 9, 2022
A huge thank you to Emma Hamm and her team for sending me an advance readers copy (ARC) of These Bitter Blooms.
This is another stunning book by Emma Hamm, which cleverly wove Witches and Fae lore into a gorgeous love story. I love the story, I love the time and research that went into this, and I love how it's different from the fair folk stories that are already published. The mood/feel I got from this was Studio Ghibli meets Corpse Bride meets Stardust...but make it Fae. Definitely a 5 star read for me and I can't wait to buy this when it comes out.
This is another stunning book by Emma Hamm, which cleverly wove Witches and Fae lore into a gorgeous love story. I love the story, I love the time and research that went into this, and I love how it's different from the fair folk stories that are already published. The mood/feel I got from this was Studio Ghibli meets Corpse Bride meets Stardust...but make it Fae. Definitely a 5 star read for me and I can't wait to buy this when it comes out.
January 3, 2023
Rated 3.5 Stars
These Bitter Blooms was an enjoyable read set in an interesting and intriguing world with characters that I liked. However the slow pace is what killed it for me. The author managed to make a creature I find absolutely disgusting in real life endearing. I found Browning so endearing. There were moments that made me chuckle. The book had its moments but the slowness really took away from my overall enjoyment.
Copy provided by author
These Bitter Blooms was an enjoyable read set in an interesting and intriguing world with characters that I liked. However the slow pace is what killed it for me. The author managed to make a creature I find absolutely disgusting in real life endearing. I found Browning so endearing. There were moments that made me chuckle. The book had its moments but the slowness really took away from my overall enjoyment.
Copy provided by author
September 10, 2023
As I sit here trying to write a review of this book that I finished about two weeks ago I can’t think of anything other than that it was a sweet love story that played out very slowly. There was a lot of build up and world building and everything exciting happens all at the end, but since there was so much build up I just kind of felt let down when everything finally did play out. I don’t know, maybe I just need stories with a little bit more action in them throughout.
October 13, 2022
This is such a beautiful tale, and a new kind of Emma Hamm read. It’s the same amazing world building you’ve come to expect from Emma with a great weave of fae & witchcraft.
Thea & Alistair are magical kids from opposite sides of the river that don’t feel like they fit in with their families, or their environment.
They cross paths one fateful night, and it changes the course of their lives.
They each begin a journey of self discovery and personal development, while unknowingly encouraging & strengthening each other through friendship. Each growing to realize they are stronger than they believed and are more than they ever imagined they could be.
Thanks so much for the ARC Emma & team! I sure hope there will be more tales from Waterdown & Wildecliff in the future.
Thea & Alistair are magical kids from opposite sides of the river that don’t feel like they fit in with their families, or their environment.
They cross paths one fateful night, and it changes the course of their lives.
They each begin a journey of self discovery and personal development, while unknowingly encouraging & strengthening each other through friendship. Each growing to realize they are stronger than they believed and are more than they ever imagined they could be.
Thanks so much for the ARC Emma & team! I sure hope there will be more tales from Waterdown & Wildecliff in the future.
May 9, 2025
This is a cute cottage core cozy romance. Everything is so underdeveloped though. I skim read this. The synopsis tells you everything about the story.
The first 1/3 of the book is them exchanging letters. The next 30% is them meeting up. And the final third is them ten years later having a boss x secretary romance following a war.
It’s a cute story. Not for me.
The first 1/3 of the book is them exchanging letters. The next 30% is them meeting up. And the final third is them ten years later having a boss x secretary romance following a war.
It’s a cute story. Not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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