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Monday, July 28, 2014

~Review: The Art of Arranging Flowers by Lynne Branard~

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.


Overall Rating:  3.5 Rockin’ ★★★☆

Ruby Jewell is a matchmaker and a florist all in one.  She can create the perfect bouquets for every occasion in town:  funerals, church altars, weddings, social events,  holidays,  and even open houses for the local real estate agent.  Some customers need love; some need healing and some just need a friendship that only Ruby can offer.  
Ruby drops out of law school and returns to her home town after the devastating death of her sister Daisy.  With the help of flowers she pulls herself out of deep depressions she decides to buy the local floral shop.  Ruby discovers that she has a special gift for understanding the meaning of flowers and arranging the flowers to heal and help her customers.  She creates healing boquests for Jenny, a friend with cancer.  Romantic bouquets for Henry, that eventually leads to his wedding.  

Ruby’s ever present companion is Clementine, her dog, until Will stops by the shop one day asking for a job.  Will becomes an important part of Ruby’s life especially after his Grandmother dies.  They share the bond of alcoholic mothers and eventually Will teaches Ruby how to open up her heart and love again.

When a new recently divorced veterinarian moves into town all of Ruby’s friends can see that he is a perfect match for her.  After a near fatal accident Clementine is saved by Dr. Bill. Will and many other friends encourage Ruby to date him, but she doesn’t seem very interested.  Ruby has been by herself for so long that it is hard for her to let her guard down and open her heart to the doctor.


I enjoyed learning about the secret language and meanings of flowers.  Ruby’s character is very real and lovable.  I found myself rooting for her and giving her advice.  My only problem with this story is that it leaves out the most interesting part…how do Ruby and the Dr. finally get together.  

***Received an ARC of this book from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review***

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