Book Review: The Art of Arranging Flowers

Book: The Art of Arranging Flowers by Lynne Branard

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

A moving and eloquent novel about love, grief, renewal and the powerful language of flowers.

Ruby Jewell knows flowers. In her twenty years as a florist she has stood behind the counter at the Flower Shoppe with her faithful dog, Clementine, resting at her feet. A customer can walk in, and with just a glance or a few words, Ruby can throw together the perfect arrangement for any occasion.

Whether intended to rekindle a romance, mark a celebration, offer sympathy, or heal a broken heart, her expressive floral designs mark the moments and milestones in the lives of her neighbors. It’s as though she knows just what they want to say, just what they need.

Yet Ruby’s own heart’s desires have gone ignored since the death of her beloved sister. It will take an invitation from a man who’s flown to the moon, the arrival of a unique little boy, and concern from a charming veterinarian to reawaken her wounded spirit. Any life can be derailed, but the healing power of community can put it right again.



Rating: 4 1/2 stars

Review:

This was a very heartfelt and touching story. Even though there is an underlining theme of death to the story it's not somber or depressing. It's just shows a natural part of life.

The Art of Arranging Flowers focus on Ruby Jewell, a florist who sort of closed up her heart following the death of her younger sister years ago. She was also known for arranging just the right type of flowers for her customers.

It wasn't until she became good friends with astronaut Captain Dan Miller and let 10 years old Will Norris into her life that she started to change. It even had her thinking about taking a chance on love.

Prior to that she was so focused on doing things for everyone else that she felt no need to let anyone close to heart.

I thought the characters were interesting and well developed and they seem like real everyday people.

Since the main character is a florist, I found some of the flowers so interesting that I looked up some of them to see what they look like. The flowers in the story were used from celebrations to remembrance. They invoked a sense of happiness or healing to the recipient just by looking at them.

I really like this story because it makes you want to enjoy life and not take it or anyone for granted.