Lavender and Lace

Bloom Sisters #4

by Tara Grace Ericson

In their online writer chatroom, they are getting serious.
In the real world; He thinks she’s shallow, and she thinks he’s out of touch.
When their worlds collide, will their hearts survive?

Lavender Bloom is a social marketing expert and influential fashion blogger. Always focused on the perfect image, she shows the world a flawless version of herself, except to her family and her nameless online best friend. Her broody new client certainly doesn’t understand her or why she prefers to hide behind her computer.

Reclusive author Emmett Drake spends his days writing his award-winning fantasy saga and his nights chatting online with the woman of his dreams. When he is forced to hire an image consultant to please his publisher, he despises everything the woman stands for, even if he sees hidden depths beneath her polished façade.

Lavender is determined to help Emmett embrace the power of social media, convinced he has the platform to make a difference. Meanwhile, he is determined to uncover the woman hiding behind the carefully scripted marketing lingo. Their struggle to find authenticity in a world centered on likes, comments, and shares will challenge them both to embrace God’s purpose for their lives – together.

Return to Bloom’s Farm in Lavender and Lace and embrace the joy of family, faith, and true love in this nostalgic modern nod to the romantic classic, You’ve Got Mail.

Genres: Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Romance, Christian, Fiction, Christian Romance, Collections

Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2023

About the author

Tara Grace Ericson

faith, hope, and happily ever after

Tara writes small-town, contemporary Christian romance. She loves stories of modern-day characters struggling to obey God, forgive others, and accept themselves - oh, and finding their happily-ever-after along the way.

She lives in Southwest Missouri with her husband and two sons, writing full-time, in between chasing a two toddlers!

Get a free e-book by signing up for Tara's newsletter at her website!

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Reviews

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

This was such a great romance, with a ‘You’ve Got Mail’ vibe. I enjoy the troupe and I really love the Bloom siblings. Lavender is so relatable in many ways, and though Emmett wasn’t the most likable at the start he really grew on me. Lavender and Lace is my of this series so far, and I’m looking forward to reading more.

Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 4.25
Narrators: Lorana Hoopes
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Christian Romance
Length: 5h 51m

[Amy | Foxy Blogs · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars

"Lavender and Lace" is about Lavender (28) and Emmett (32), who met online using aliases (WordsInBloom & WillWriteForTacos) to talk about their writings.

Unbeknownst to them, they had a chance meeting at the library where they started chatting, but Emmett looked down on Lavender's work as a blogger, not taking her seriously as a writer.

However, when Emmett's publisher asks him to improve his social media presence, they hire Lavender to help him out. As their online connection deepens, they agree to meet in person, but when Emmett sees Lavender, he chooses not to reveal his true identity, allowing her to believe she was stood up by WillWriteForTacos.

Watching them work through their misunderstandings and come to a happy ending made for an entertaining read.

LAVENDAR AND LACE
● Lavendar (28) WordsInBloom & Emmett (32) WillWriteForTacos
● social marketing expert and influential fashion blogger/ bestselling author
● E & L met online and use aliases while talking about their writings
● meet in person at the library but didn’t know they already know each other
● the library meeting didn’t go well - Emmett looked down on what Lavendar does for work
● Emmett’s publisher wants him to have a stronger social media presence
● the publisher hires Lavender to help him out
● hidden identity
● ‘You’ve Got Mail’ vibe
● small-town
● Christian romance


The Bloom Sisters (+ their brother) series:
#1 Hawthorne & Avery - Hoping for Hawthorne
#2 Daisy & Lance - A Date for Daisy
#3 Poppy & Harrison - Poppy’s Proposal
#4 Lavender & Emmett - Lavender and Lace
#5 Lily & Josh - Longing for Lily
#6 Rose & Tates - Resisting Rose
#7 Andi & Ross - Dancing with Dandelion

Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Lorana Hoopes
Length: 5H 51M

[Abigail McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tonight had been a great reminder that she was a special daughter of the King. Which had nothing to do with how special she was, and everything to do with how glorious the King is.

I really enjoyed "You've Got Mail" when I watched it earlier this year, so when I heard Tara was writing her own take on it, I knew I needed it in my life. I've adored everything from Tara Grace Ericson that I've read so far, and this was no exception. This might just be my favorite.

Lavender and Emmett's story almost reminded me of Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy - a story of snap judgements, assumptions, and eventually realizing that they were meant to be. Also, it's such a great picture of how real online friendship can be; so many of my dearest friends I've never actually met in person, but that doesn't make the relationship any less genuine.

Oh, and the faith content? Absolutely on point as always.

Five shining stars from me.

You don't have to give God the edited version of yourself. Believe me, He has seen the whole messy film.

[K. Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book... it’s probably my favorite in the series so far! Ericson created very realistic characters, with Lavender & Emmett, who hold traits that many of us struggle with every day. The message in this book is especially great for young women, helping them realize their self image is more than what the world tells them.

[Inspirationalfictionreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better! In fact, this is my new favorite of the Bloom family stories. I love the movie You’ve Got Mail and Lavender and Lace is a great take on it! I also loved going back to the wonderful setting of the Bloom farm and catching up with the family!

I loved the humor and the banter between Lavender and Emmett. I also enjoyed their online relationship and their use of book quotes when they were chatting. The faith aspect in this story is about being confident in who we are in Christ instead of worrying about how we are perceived online. It is well done, timely, and needed for today’s culture.

This story was a joy to read from start to finish. If you’re looking for a light fun read that’s full of faith and family, this series is for you! I’m looking forward to reading the next Bloom sister story!

I received a complimentary copy of this book.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lavender Bloom is the quiet sister. The one more comfortable behind the computer. She runs the social marketing for her family's farm as well as her personal fashion blog. Her heart longs to share her faith more with her audience, but that doesn't fit with the rest of the content on her blog. But she shares her thoughts with her internet boyfriend, a fellow writer she's grown close to, even though they've agreed to stay anonymous. Still, it feels like what they share is real, and she's beginning to think there might be a future with WillWriteForTacos if they ever meet in person.

Emmett Drake is head over heels for WordsInBloom. Unfortunately, he has no idea what her real name is or where she lives. His latest novel isn't coming together as well as he would like, and it adds insult to injury when his publisher insists he begins using social media. He didn't start writing in order to put his private life in front of everyone. But they hire a professional to help him, so maybe the process won't be quite so painful.

Except the professional they hire is a fashion blogger, and Emmett can't believe someone who puts such a focus on flippant things would have any kind of depth. And he tells her so.

When she's thoroughly insulted by author E.M. Drake, Lavender turns to WillWriteForTacos for comfort. They agree to meet in person . . . and if you've seen You've Got Mail, you've got a good idea about what follows.

This is my favorite Bloom Sisters novel so far! Of course I love that the protagonists are both authors, but the discussion about social media and appearances is so, so good. It's a much-needed topic in the world today. We can all hide behind screens, or we can assume that people who put themselves out there are doing it for the wrong reasons. Both Lavender and Emmett have room to grow, and room to accept each other with grace. Such a great story!

Of course it helps that You've Got Mail is one of my favorite films, too. If you haven't read this book yet, don't wait! Go check it out now.

This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org

[Sherry Deatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably my favorite Bloom family series book. The anticipation factor was so high all through the book and the banter between Emmett and Lavender, so fun! I loved the hidden identities in the book. And that Lavender showed how social media portrays and reality are usually so different. I loved that both main characters are strong Christians but still struggle with many things. I recommend this series highly!
“Forever is composed of nows,”

[Mandy Boerma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

With hints of You’ve Got Mail scattered throughout, this is my favorite of the Bloom Family Series. Lavender, in her quite way, infuses encouragement and enjoyment into this great story.

[maiaisreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lavender and Lace by Tara Grace Ericson

I think this is my favorite so far. I love the quotes that they throw at each other. They are both bookworms. They met at the bookstore as Emmett and Lavender but they already are online friends as WhoWritesForTacos and WordsinBloom. It was just a fun and sweet book. And I love the Bloom family. It was nice to read about them again and know what happened to them.

5 stars

#KindleUnlimited

[Lila Diller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not having read any other books in this series, the Bloom sisters got confusing. But not too much. It definitely focuses on Lavender and sets up Lily for the next one.

As a fiction author myself and a blogger, I could relate to both Emmett and Lavender. I really appreciated the authentic struggle between being the same person online as you are in person. I still struggle with that.

I loved the modern take on You've Got Mail, one of my very fav rom-coms! I was slightly disappointed that the plot twists were the exact same as the movie – I guess I was hoping for something more dramatic. But this was still so cute and romantic and inspiring.

I really loved the addition of a Christian theme!

There were a few typos and errors, though, which brought it down from 5 stars for me.

Favorite quotes:
“God had blessed her in many seasons, and in this one, He would give her the strength she needed each day.” (p. 5)

“She was incredibly well-read. Could there be a more attractive quality in a woman? Probably not to an author.” (p. 10)

“Usually, people expected him to be grumpy or intimidating with his muscular frame and tattoos, but Emmett had quickly realized that Josh was one of those 'fullness of joy' believers. No matter how hard Emmett tried, he never seemed to be able to get there.” (p. 12)

“You'd think by book four, he would know what he was doing. But this manuscript had him totally lost.” (p. 21)

“Online, she could carefully choose and wordsmith her thoughts. In some way, she could control the perception, just like with her carefully edited videos.” (p. 31)

“Josh would kill him if he knew, but Emmett kept a duffel bag packed, just in case. Too many placements ended with an unannounced visit from his caseworker and a five-minute window to grab his meager possessions before climbing in the back of the car again.” (p. 64)

“Perhaps that meant she still cared too much about what others thought, but she was being honest. And sometimes the most difficult person to be honest with was herself.” (p. 75)

“He was surprisingly thoughtful for an egotistical author.” (p. 150)

“'A bitterness takes root inside you, ruining the soil for all the other fruit that needs to grow.' 'Very nice, God. And not subtle at all. I get it.'” (p. 170)

[Mimi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading Lavender and Lace was like coming home to the farm. Reading the prologue with Laura Bloom, mom to all of the Bloom kids, always settles me into the story. Not that we don't know who the story is about because of the cover, but I enjoy reading Laura's insights and concerns for the daughter of the story. Also, the publisher name in the story didn't go unnoticed by me. Put a smile on my face every time I read it!

I'm going to jump ahead here in regards to an overall theme throughout this story. Faith. It's so palpable that it should be an example to other writers on how to incorporate a very strong line of it! The faith element is a very natural part of the characters lives so it feels completely natural for it to be discussed throughout.

Ok, I won't wax poetic about the faith anymore so let's talk about the characters and writing.

Since I work in social media with influencers, this was right up my alley. I think because of the social world we live in so many young people can relate to Lavender's story. BUT also because of the world we live in, I know a lot of younger people (under 35) can also relate to not wanting to be so connected which fits Emmett. Lavender's story is a great example of how we present ourselves to others. Are we being real or fake?

When I first started reading I was shocked at Emmett's reaction to Lavender and what she did for a living. It was rather off putting when I was starting to like him. That's when the "You've Got Mail" vibe set in for me. Kind of funny how some things change yet stay the same.

I liked how he was forced to allow Lavender into his life because her job was exactly what he needed. It was a fantastic twist to the story. You could tell that God kept putting things in their lives to draw them together like youth group and the wedding.

The story felt genuine to me and very relatable. It was an easy read (I read it in a day) and I was so happy to be back on Bloom farm! Trust me, you aren't going to get enough of this family!

*I am on Tara's launch team and received the book from her. This is my personal opinion.

[Blessed & Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read every book (and novella) in the Bloom Sisters series, and I just keep loving the Bloom family more and more. Lavender’s story was adorable in that it had a ‘You Got Mail’ vibe to it with Lavender and Emmett chatting online without knowing each other’s identities. But the inspirational themes in this story are pertinent to today’s society when so much of our interaction with others is done online instead of face to face.
Lavender’s struggle to let go of her fears and be the authentic, funny, loving, and talented woman God made her to be really struck home with me. I think women of all ages can relate to Lavender’s hesitation to follow God’s will when it threatens the image we project to the world. I loved watching her blossom into the teacher and encourager God called her to be. Her willingness to be vulnerable for others and to allow God to work through her is heartwarming. Bring on all the warm fuzzy feels!
Emmett is a quirky, sarcastic, and thoughtful guy. I loved that he was an author, and he has the best screen name ever...WillWriteForTacos. (I giggle every time.) Emmett came off as harsh a few times, and when he made Lavender cry, I can honestly say I wasn’t rooting for him to get the girl (more like a kick in the pants). But...God worked on him, too, and I loved the result.
If you are a fan of Christian fiction, then you’ll want to devour the Bloom Sisters series, especially Lavender and Lace. I think this would be a great book for young adults as well since they live so much of their lives online. I would recommend you start from the beginning in this series with Hoping for Hawthorne so you will be familiar with all the characters and their individual stories.
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Ashley Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my new favorite Bloom Sisters book! This series is always like a bit of sunshine in my reading world! I absolutely loved this combination of characters! Lavender and Emmett were completely adorable and the humor was exactly what I look for in a romance! Give me sarcasm and I’m a happy girl! I loved the message of this book and the faith element was really prominent and also very timely for many of us who struggle with identity and confidence in ourselves and in Christ. The characters personalities really shined in the dialogue of this book and I loved every minute! The family aspect that is always present in this series is one of my favorite things and there were pop in moments from each of the characters we’ve come to love in this series. I really loved this book and cannot wait for the next one!!!

[Kimterest · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first book by this author. Overall I enjoyed. I absolutely love this trope and wish more authors would use it.

Pros: The book kept my attention and didn’t spend too much time on inner thoughts or bickering. Cons: I was disappointed in the ending as it led to more drama than I wanted in this story. I love so much how the movie ended, I guess I was wanting the same.

*small rant: I just have to vent. Why didn’t she use KJV for quoting Song of Solomon? Here they were quoting these beautiful words by masterful authors throughout history, and then out comes a modern translation of a beautiful biblical verse. I’m not against modern translations for understanding, but the poetry of the KJV is so valuable and precious. I thought a couple of characters who are authors would certainly think so. *end rant

[Tanya Thrasher · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars!

Another wonderful book by Tara Grace Ericson!! This book spoke to me quite a bit! As a member of a large family myself, I could see many similarities with Lavender and myself! By not looking to be in the spotlight, to being more quiet, and reserved. I also love how Tara uses God's word throughout her stories! It definitely helps me to see how God works and how to use this guidance in my own life. If you haven't read a book by Tara Grace Ericson, I highly recommend this series, The Bloom Sisters! If you love this series, you'll definitely want to pick up any other book/series she writes. Great job, Tara Grace Ericson! Keep those books coming!

[Amanda Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been a fan of Ericsons for awhile now and it’s been truly amazing watching her writing style develop. The way she writes about the characters and their feelings/life draws you in. This book is one of those sit down and read-for-hours-before-you-know-it, books! You can’t stop as your taken into the life of Lavender Bloom. She comes across several set backs and hard choices that are quite unique. Lavenders story truly encompasses that Gods will isn’t always clear but he has a plan, always.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not only did I absolutely adore the growth of the two main characters, but this book is full of lessons on trusting in God and being authentic. In a world of social media where we can portray ourselves any way we want, Lavender goes on a journey of discovering boldness not only in herself, but in her identity through Jesus. Emmett learns not to judge a book by its cover, which is ironic since he’s an author. ;) The dynamic of these characters will have you flipping the pages until the very end! I highly recommend.

[Mandi Blake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This was by far the best book I've read this year. The message is so well woven into the story that I was struck by the truth when it came full circle. I loved seeing Lavender and Emmett in their different engagements online and in person, and so many times I related to Lavender. I will recommend this book to any woman, especially teens and young adults. Social media dominates so much of our lives, but Lavender was bold enough to stand up for the good she could do through her platform as a fashion blogger. I can't wait to see what Tara Grace Ericson gives us next for the Bloom Sisters.

[Heather Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ah, there's nothing like a book where the two MCs are an author and a social media influencer to be relatable! And they're adorably awkward when put together.
Lavender and Emmett challenge each other to overcome their prejudices and by rooting their identity in Christ, find the freedom to represent themselves honestly and consistently across their spheres. They learn to surrender their fears and futures to God and forgive in the face of betrayal. This was a solid addition to the Bloom family series, giving us more time with each member of this beloved family.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a play off of "You've Got Mail." Lavender is connected to Write for Tacos online. He has become her best friend. Then she meets Emmett. She is drawn to him as well. But their relationship is a bit more of a struggle since she cannot hide who she is behind carefully crafted words. This book shows the importance of authenticity in a relationship. Also I love the fact that Lavender realizes that her voice is powerful and can make a difference. God empowers her to make a difference. I really enjoyed this next book in the Bloom series. Personally I would read the other books first.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this series!!! Lavender is attracted to two men - one online and the other is Emmett. They have a bumpy first meeting and a few not so comfortable interactions. What happens when frustration turns to attraction. It so amazes me how we can be more ourselves when not face to face. I really enjoy reading Christian romance and appreciate how the characters are believers they struggle with real issues. This romance doesn't disappoint. Looking forward to Lily's book.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a free copy of this book, but this is my honest and voluntary opinion. Lavender Bloom is a social media expert and fashion blogger, is hired to assist reclusive author Emmett Drake. He thinks she is shallow and she thinks he’s mean. As they work together they discover each has a depth of personality and faith. This is an uplifting book and I’d recommend reading it. The plot includes issues of self-concept, faith and forgiveness.

[Vandy Dodge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only knowing their online chat identity , learning to share what’s really in their hearts and comfortable behind the screen both Lily and Emmett . Become friends but don’t know they’ve meet in person. As they both deal with different challenges God has their paths crossed and the 1st impressions aren’t always the best or what’s really them. The twist and turns along the way make this and emotional, up lifting book with the need to know what’s coming next. Worth a bing read on the whole series

[Dorothey Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lavender and Lace

I really liked this story about Lavender and Emmitt. Lavender was a computer genius, did blogs, and handled all the publicity for the Bloom farm. She Leo was encouraged to help,with the youth at their church. Emmitt was an author of science fiction stories ., was very successful with his books. The two met on line and video chatted for sometime. Enjoy their discovering who each other was and coming to an understanding.

[Rebecca White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story of pen pals versus real life and finding love in the midst of it as well as discovering that first impressions aren't always right. I enjoyed Lavender stepping up and helping with the youth group and allowing that to stretch her so she was able to share more of her real self. I enjoyed Emmet's growth and he realized that not all of his beliefs were right and sometimes he needed to allow for imperfections. I just love the Bloom sisters and the farm.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun and heartwarming story! I listened to this excellently narrated audiobook and thoroughly enjoyed it. Despite the light-hearted nature of two authors getting to know one another online and their eventual meeting, there were wonderful Biblical truths organically woven into this story, including finding one’s identity in Christ and choosing to forgive. Such an uplifting and heartwarming contemporary book and series!

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great series!

I have been reading through these bloom family series books, and I really enjoyed them. I haven't taken the time to leave a written review but I really needed to do it. These books are wonderfully written, and you will enjoy all of the characters. This book #4 is by for my favorite

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this!
This story starts seven months after the others started.
It's a take-off on "You've Got Mail" and it's many variants, but this had a more believable reaction to the revelation, I think.
The characters, dialogue and situations were all believable and well done.

This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how much the faith was brought into this and still was a great layered romance. I also loved that I could read this one as my intro into the series and not be lost to the world around. It was so cute and real with faith and loved seeing the characters grow through this!!

Excited to read the rest of the series.

[Samantha Ball · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful!

I am loving each of the books in this series. They are wonderfully written and have me staying up late at night because I'm so eager to know what happens next. My heart ached a lot for Emmett in this story, and I loved seeing Lavender's confident side coming out.
This author is one I never hesitate to click yes for the next book!
Highly recommended.