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Baker Street Romance #1
Romancing the Flower Shop Girl
Tina Gardenia lives in a tiny house and works in a tiny flower shop. She doesn't have room for a big, strong man like Luca Lowell. Luca has taken over the garage down the street, and now he's trying to expand Tina's tiny world. He can't exactly buy flowers for a florist, so he has to get creative with his romantic gestures. Very creative. Luca doesn't know that Tina is holding on to something from the past. It might be a problem for the couple. She won't let him into her tiny life if she has no space. There are plenty of LOLs and bittersweet moments to savour on Tina and Luca's bumpy journey toward love. This is a stand-alone sweet romantic comedy novel with a guaranteed Happily Ever After. Characters do cross over into other Baker Street Romance novels by Angie Pepper.
196 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2014
466 people are currently reading
786 people want to read
About the author
Mimi Strong
60 books2,266 followersNYT Bestselling author Mimi Strong loves to make you laugh.
She also enjoys life in the Big City and shopping, just like a sassy chick-lit character!
She also enjoys life in the Big City and shopping, just like a sassy chick-lit character!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
November 17, 2017
I know other reviewers gave this book stars, but I couldn't. I thought it was pretty lame. The story hints to the heroine having lost her first love/boyfriend after he died after prom/graduation and it's 10 years later and she is still feeling the loss. It would've been better if there were flashbacks to how they were as a couple and then how she coped with the loss of her love afterwards, but this didn't happen. It sort of made me want to say 'Stop being so whiny and get over him already! It's been 10 years!' Then there is the best friend who can't even be in the same room if you say 'panties', not sure what that's about and I probably never will because I don't plan on ever reading another in this series. Then you have the hero who initially you think is gonna be a bad-ass because he buys a garage and is turning it into one that specializes in fixing motorcycles and he also rides a bike. But that's not the case, it's more like a lamb wearing wolf's clothing and makes him kinda lame...like the book.
The sex scenes were lame and tame. The book was about 150 pages, but read like it was 50 because there was nothing there but extra fluff. I can't even remember the names of the characters and I finished reading this book an hour ago. I should have put this on my DNF pile, but I hate not finishing a book and I'm always thing IT'S GOT TO GET BETTER, but it never did and now I wish I had just stopped reading it.
The sex scenes were lame and tame. The book was about 150 pages, but read like it was 50 because there was nothing there but extra fluff. I can't even remember the names of the characters and I finished reading this book an hour ago. I should have put this on my DNF pile, but I hate not finishing a book and I'm always thing IT'S GOT TO GET BETTER, but it never did and now I wish I had just stopped reading it.
dnf
December 21, 2014Yawn! I waited for something - anything - to suck me into this story.
Never happened.
Never happened.
August 31, 2016
I loved this first book in Mimi Strong's new BAKER STREET series. Where Mimi is strongest is when she writes about relate-able people who are likeable with real fears, flaws and still have fabulous sex. Hell, she even makes the innocent game Scrabble fun and sexy.
April 8, 2024
Very cute, easy to read book. It had all the feels and was well written. I enjoyed all the characters and can’t wait to follow the rest of them in this small series
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April 19, 2014I didn’t get it; I didn’t like this story very much at all. I don’t rate stuff I don’t finish, it is not fair. It seems like other people like her style of writing, it is just not for me. The heroine’s BFF freaking when the “p” word was used—or another sex-related word—was childish to me. It reminded me of what a little kid would do, not someone past their teens…. Same thing goes for obsessing about a “first love” that you had back in high school that died pretty much after prom … 10 years ago … yes 10 years.
It was just too silly and nonsensical I didn’t finish it … it didn’t fit with the rest of the Alphas After Dark anthology for me.
It was just too silly and nonsensical I didn’t finish it … it didn’t fit with the rest of the Alphas After Dark anthology for me.
March 15, 2019
3 1/2 to 4 stars
To sum it up: Sweet, simple, cute and funny.
There's no great angst, a few misunderstandings, some definite humor and a bit o' wisdom along the way. It made me smile often and laugh at points too. I took it for what it is - a fun, light, romantic read (especially after you've been through the wringer with a more intense novel or series).
To sum it up: Sweet, simple, cute and funny.
There's no great angst, a few misunderstandings, some definite humor and a bit o' wisdom along the way. It made me smile often and laugh at points too. I took it for what it is - a fun, light, romantic read (especially after you've been through the wringer with a more intense novel or series).
May 18, 2014
Did not like Luca. Hated Tina.
August 11, 2016
We all know Mimi Strong is known for her naughty stories filled with quirky characters...Blue Roses is naughty and the characters are still quirky, but this time Mimi has added a little softness to the story.
Yes it's a little angsty, the alpha male is a bit frustrating, but all in all Blue Roses is the beginning of a fantastic new series (A Baker Street Romance)
Tina is stuck, stuck in life, stuck in love and pretty much stuck in the past. The love of her life, high school sweetheart, Jonathan was taken from her life way too young. Every year she tortures herself with his memory...don't get me wrong, she loves him and he gave her so much, but Tina dwells so much on the loss of Jonathan that she forgets to treasure his memory.
Luca is the new owner of the Baker Street mechanics shop. He has his sights set on Tina and slowly he woos her. Tina is slowly charmed and eventually she allows Luca a little piece of her heart. But as things start to look promising, insecurities and pain from the past puts a big wedge in Tina's life.
Can she move forward? Will Luca be her all? A beautiful love story that will make you giggle, swoon and maybe even blush a little. This is a wonderful new style of writing from Ms Strong - not overtly different, but different all the same. Ms Strong you and your books have a place in my heart always!!!
Yes it's a little angsty, the alpha male is a bit frustrating, but all in all Blue Roses is the beginning of a fantastic new series (A Baker Street Romance)
Tina is stuck, stuck in life, stuck in love and pretty much stuck in the past. The love of her life, high school sweetheart, Jonathan was taken from her life way too young. Every year she tortures herself with his memory...don't get me wrong, she loves him and he gave her so much, but Tina dwells so much on the loss of Jonathan that she forgets to treasure his memory.
Luca is the new owner of the Baker Street mechanics shop. He has his sights set on Tina and slowly he woos her. Tina is slowly charmed and eventually she allows Luca a little piece of her heart. But as things start to look promising, insecurities and pain from the past puts a big wedge in Tina's life.
Can she move forward? Will Luca be her all? A beautiful love story that will make you giggle, swoon and maybe even blush a little. This is a wonderful new style of writing from Ms Strong - not overtly different, but different all the same. Ms Strong you and your books have a place in my heart always!!!
May 15, 2014
This read just hit the OK mark for me. I did enjoy the characters & the plots, but something just missed it for me. I will probably continue with the series because I will admit it was funny at times.
December 20, 2014
Oh Luca and Tina...what a lovely surprise. Just loved how they met. He just sounds delicious :-). Loved the banter between them and how things progressed.
Tina sister Megan so funny and want to hug Rory if permitted.
brilliant story just loved it.
Tina sister Megan so funny and want to hug Rory if permitted.
brilliant story just loved it.
July 23, 2016
I loved this story, it was sweet and heartbreaking but such a great story.
July 13, 2021
A Blue Florist Meets A Biker Who Makes Her Life Smell Like Roses
I chose this book because I really liked the title Blue Roses and the premise was a typical romance, so I thought why not? This book sat in my library for a long time, but I am glad I read this story by Mimi Strong now, because I may not have appreciated at another time. I am not sure, though. This is the first book in the Two Book, Baker Street Romance Series.
Florist Shop Co-Owner, Tina "Teenie" is a naive, sweet, brash and quirky personality. She is tall and lithe with a strong physique due to her occupation and an interesting high school sport. A trauma in her teens has stunted her emotional growth and has made her romantically challenged. She has a preference in her suitors, who are mostly geeks with a prowess and skillset pertaining to video games. However, a muscle bound, boot wearing, bike riding garage owner might just teach Tina some important life lessons and more about herself. However, for that she has to broaden her horizons, but does she have the capabilities and bandwidth to do that?
New Business and Motor Bike Garage Shop Owner, Luca Lowell is a man who knows what he is and is honest about everything around him. He is not afraid to express his views and hear out others. Despite his self confidence, he sometimes can be very stubborn and too self-assured, giving off an air of knowing it all. To some members of the female species, he may be categorized as being an "insensitive jerk" (not by me, though!). His upbringing has made him have a one-dimensional outlook about women and relationships. However, a sweet florist next door has him floored with her directness and interesting observations. Will Luca change his ways to find something meaningful and long term?
As I started reading this book, sometimes I would get annoyed and found the arrangement of the book immature. Especially when one length sentences were mostly paragraphs. However, the story kept moving, so I kept reading on. Well, mid-way, I realized that this story had more depth than I acknowledged. Everything in it, from the story, to the characters, to how it is told and to the writing style, is all about a journey of growth. And it truly is beautiful once the reader realizes, where Luca and Tina are at different points in life and what they have to learn. After I noticed that, I enjoyed my ride immensely.
In these types of books, sometimes, I agree with one character vehemently. Especially when both viewpoints are shown. But in this case, with the entire book being written from Tina's point of view only, I was able to see the validity, reactions and issues of both characters very well. That never happens to me with stories that have a singular vantage point.
The supporting characters, were hilarious, especially Megan and Rory, along with an animal who makes a brief appearance and an invisible mother, who still makes her mark. The book is a fast read, but I can see how some readers might not observe or consider the depth of this author's writing. I have just become a fan of authoress, Mimi Strong!
If I were to list a thing that I did not like it was that, if this was supposed to be humourous, I only laughed out loud once. In my eyes, this story was sweet, realistic, eye opening and showed something important about dealing with issues and baggage. That holds more appeal and is substantive for me, than a laugh out loud comedy. Just saying!
If you like a quick read that is eccentric, about emotional development, deals with an important subject matter in an interesting way, has some steamy scenes with an alpha male who is kind and a tale that makes you slightly sappy, then you have come across something wonderful! Don't miss out!
I chose this book because I really liked the title Blue Roses and the premise was a typical romance, so I thought why not? This book sat in my library for a long time, but I am glad I read this story by Mimi Strong now, because I may not have appreciated at another time. I am not sure, though. This is the first book in the Two Book, Baker Street Romance Series.
Florist Shop Co-Owner, Tina "Teenie" is a naive, sweet, brash and quirky personality. She is tall and lithe with a strong physique due to her occupation and an interesting high school sport. A trauma in her teens has stunted her emotional growth and has made her romantically challenged. She has a preference in her suitors, who are mostly geeks with a prowess and skillset pertaining to video games. However, a muscle bound, boot wearing, bike riding garage owner might just teach Tina some important life lessons and more about herself. However, for that she has to broaden her horizons, but does she have the capabilities and bandwidth to do that?
New Business and Motor Bike Garage Shop Owner, Luca Lowell is a man who knows what he is and is honest about everything around him. He is not afraid to express his views and hear out others. Despite his self confidence, he sometimes can be very stubborn and too self-assured, giving off an air of knowing it all. To some members of the female species, he may be categorized as being an "insensitive jerk" (not by me, though!). His upbringing has made him have a one-dimensional outlook about women and relationships. However, a sweet florist next door has him floored with her directness and interesting observations. Will Luca change his ways to find something meaningful and long term?
As I started reading this book, sometimes I would get annoyed and found the arrangement of the book immature. Especially when one length sentences were mostly paragraphs. However, the story kept moving, so I kept reading on. Well, mid-way, I realized that this story had more depth than I acknowledged. Everything in it, from the story, to the characters, to how it is told and to the writing style, is all about a journey of growth. And it truly is beautiful once the reader realizes, where Luca and Tina are at different points in life and what they have to learn. After I noticed that, I enjoyed my ride immensely.
In these types of books, sometimes, I agree with one character vehemently. Especially when both viewpoints are shown. But in this case, with the entire book being written from Tina's point of view only, I was able to see the validity, reactions and issues of both characters very well. That never happens to me with stories that have a singular vantage point.
The supporting characters, were hilarious, especially Megan and Rory, along with an animal who makes a brief appearance and an invisible mother, who still makes her mark. The book is a fast read, but I can see how some readers might not observe or consider the depth of this author's writing. I have just become a fan of authoress, Mimi Strong!
If I were to list a thing that I did not like it was that, if this was supposed to be humourous, I only laughed out loud once. In my eyes, this story was sweet, realistic, eye opening and showed something important about dealing with issues and baggage. That holds more appeal and is substantive for me, than a laugh out loud comedy. Just saying!
If you like a quick read that is eccentric, about emotional development, deals with an important subject matter in an interesting way, has some steamy scenes with an alpha male who is kind and a tale that makes you slightly sappy, then you have come across something wonderful! Don't miss out!
April 24, 2021
2.5 Stars for ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL by Mimi Strong and Angie Pepper.
ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL would probably be enjoyed by a much younger audience than myself - readers who enjoy RomComs with characters whose HS memories are not too distant in their past.
My rating guide: 1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, NOT FOR ME; 3= It was okay; 4= Yes, I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved it, it was great!
I almost quit reading ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL in Chapter 4 and wondered about the good ratings. I decided to continue. Although not fully, some of the unusual/immature behavior by the FMC and her support circle is explained but I never really warmed up to any of them. Secondary characters, Rory and Meenie were particularly odd. Luca, MMC, was okay. I thought he was rather forgiving and fairly understanding considering the unusual, and at times, immature behaviors of the women.
Tina Gardenia/FMC, 29yrs and co-owner of Gardenia’s Flowers, runs a floral shop with her sister “Meenie.” Tina lives in a “Tiny” house located on the property, but behind the house, where she grew up. Luca Lowell/MMC recently purchased the dated auto shop down the street from Gardenia’s Flowers. In his early 30’s, Luca has plans to renovate, expand and convert the auto shop so it mainly services bikes and scooters. Luca meets Tina one day when he stops in Gardenia’s Flowers. For some reason, unbeknown to me, he decides to pursue her. I bumped up my rating from 2 Stars because I liked Luca as a character. RTFSG can be read as a standalone title with no cliffhangers. This was my first novel by these authors. I don’t believe I will be checking out more.
READER CAUTIONS - Clean except innuendos.
VIOLENCE - None.
PROFANITY - None.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Innuendos, but nothing on scene or behind doors.
ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL would probably be enjoyed by a much younger audience than myself - readers who enjoy RomComs with characters whose HS memories are not too distant in their past.
My rating guide: 1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, NOT FOR ME; 3= It was okay; 4= Yes, I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved it, it was great!
I almost quit reading ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL in Chapter 4 and wondered about the good ratings. I decided to continue. Although not fully, some of the unusual/immature behavior by the FMC and her support circle is explained but I never really warmed up to any of them. Secondary characters, Rory and Meenie were particularly odd. Luca, MMC, was okay. I thought he was rather forgiving and fairly understanding considering the unusual, and at times, immature behaviors of the women.
Tina Gardenia/FMC, 29yrs and co-owner of Gardenia’s Flowers, runs a floral shop with her sister “Meenie.” Tina lives in a “Tiny” house located on the property, but behind the house, where she grew up. Luca Lowell/MMC recently purchased the dated auto shop down the street from Gardenia’s Flowers. In his early 30’s, Luca has plans to renovate, expand and convert the auto shop so it mainly services bikes and scooters. Luca meets Tina one day when he stops in Gardenia’s Flowers. For some reason, unbeknown to me, he decides to pursue her. I bumped up my rating from 2 Stars because I liked Luca as a character. RTFSG can be read as a standalone title with no cliffhangers. This was my first novel by these authors. I don’t believe I will be checking out more.
READER CAUTIONS - Clean except innuendos.
VIOLENCE - None.
PROFANITY - None.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Innuendos, but nothing on scene or behind doors.
November 15, 2022
DNFed at probably 8%.
This was NOT a good book, imo. First of all, MC is 28/29, declared she only dates "boys" who are nerdy/geeky, until theyre "too geeky". Like one date who pulled out his phone on their first date (gasp) to bet on a listing on ebay for one of his collections. Too nerdy for her. She says she likes boys like that because 'if they havent grown up, they wont expect me to' (im paraphrasing that but that was the gist).
As a nerd who is with a nerd, fuck you. How fucking offensive.
Then! She meets LI (love interest), whose "all man" obviously because he's muscled, and owns a motorcycle garage/shop. He seemed neat, only met him once.
MC's best friend is (apparently) asexual/sexually repulsed, which is a thing and even though its not really explicitly stated, its pretty cool representation. However, an almost 30 year old woman can't stand the words used to describe the act. And even hangs up at the word "sex", freaks out at "panties", which MC knows and says them all anyways because her friend reached out to LI on social media on her account by accident. So that was fucked up.
MC is so immature she claimed she couldnt buy mens underwear for a family member because of the model on the packaging. Seriously?
And genuinely this was in the first 45ish minutes of the audiobook. I hated this.
This was NOT a good book, imo. First of all, MC is 28/29, declared she only dates "boys" who are nerdy/geeky, until theyre "too geeky". Like one date who pulled out his phone on their first date (gasp) to bet on a listing on ebay for one of his collections. Too nerdy for her. She says she likes boys like that because 'if they havent grown up, they wont expect me to' (im paraphrasing that but that was the gist).
As a nerd who is with a nerd, fuck you. How fucking offensive.
Then! She meets LI (love interest), whose "all man" obviously because he's muscled, and owns a motorcycle garage/shop. He seemed neat, only met him once.
MC's best friend is (apparently) asexual/sexually repulsed, which is a thing and even though its not really explicitly stated, its pretty cool representation. However, an almost 30 year old woman can't stand the words used to describe the act. And even hangs up at the word "sex", freaks out at "panties", which MC knows and says them all anyways because her friend reached out to LI on social media on her account by accident. So that was fucked up.
MC is so immature she claimed she couldnt buy mens underwear for a family member because of the model on the packaging. Seriously?
And genuinely this was in the first 45ish minutes of the audiobook. I hated this.
June 13, 2021
Quirky & Highly Entertaining Rom-Com
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this story. Angie Pepper does such a great job bringing fun, interesting and very likeable characters into her books. This book may not have the fantasy magic side of some of her other series but there's a magic that happens between these characters that is phenomenal. Enter flower shop girl stage right with a heartbreaking past, lives in a tiny house on the property of her nutty sister that also works in the flower shop. Add in a close friend with some serious almost "spectrum disorder" like issues especially around anything intimate.... just words like "panties" make her run for the hills. Now throw in a big handsome biker guy in the shop across the street and watch the craziness unfold. It truly is a fun rollercoaster ride that will satisfy any rom-com craving!
Parents- PG13 about a 16+ read- Fairly clean language, no violence, there is sexual content in the form of lots of insinuations, talk about sex and make out moments but the bedroom door does stay closed.
The narrator does a fantastic job and is just easy and really fun to listen to.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this story. Angie Pepper does such a great job bringing fun, interesting and very likeable characters into her books. This book may not have the fantasy magic side of some of her other series but there's a magic that happens between these characters that is phenomenal. Enter flower shop girl stage right with a heartbreaking past, lives in a tiny house on the property of her nutty sister that also works in the flower shop. Add in a close friend with some serious almost "spectrum disorder" like issues especially around anything intimate.... just words like "panties" make her run for the hills. Now throw in a big handsome biker guy in the shop across the street and watch the craziness unfold. It truly is a fun rollercoaster ride that will satisfy any rom-com craving!
Parents- PG13 about a 16+ read- Fairly clean language, no violence, there is sexual content in the form of lots of insinuations, talk about sex and make out moments but the bedroom door does stay closed.
The narrator does a fantastic job and is just easy and really fun to listen to.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 15, 2021
Disclaimer: This audiobook was given to me in exchange for an honest review
Angela Pepper has a knack for creating likeable, quirky characters and infusing them with life and humor. Although there is no magic in this series like Ghost Hackers or Wisteria Witch Mysteries, there is no lack of magic in the tale she tells.
The characters have nuance and history - so there are some mysteries that unravel about why everyone behaves the way they do. I felt like there was maturity in the way the characters were handled, while still keeping things light and fluffy through the banter and humor. It was a perfect Valentine's Day treat to listen to.
This is short, fun and I loved spending time with the characters and look forward to exploring more characters and romances (like the sister or roommate) in any future sequels.
Tiffany Williams is always a delight to listen to. She brings the story to life in a way that feels like you're listening to a radio performance more than reading a text. She does an excellent job jumping between character voices.
Angela Pepper has a knack for creating likeable, quirky characters and infusing them with life and humor. Although there is no magic in this series like Ghost Hackers or Wisteria Witch Mysteries, there is no lack of magic in the tale she tells.
The characters have nuance and history - so there are some mysteries that unravel about why everyone behaves the way they do. I felt like there was maturity in the way the characters were handled, while still keeping things light and fluffy through the banter and humor. It was a perfect Valentine's Day treat to listen to.
This is short, fun and I loved spending time with the characters and look forward to exploring more characters and romances (like the sister or roommate) in any future sequels.
Tiffany Williams is always a delight to listen to. She brings the story to life in a way that feels like you're listening to a radio performance more than reading a text. She does an excellent job jumping between character voices.
May 24, 2022
ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL is the first book in the Baker Street Neighborhood Romances series. I expect that each story will stand on its own in this series.
This was a lovely sweet romance between a bad boy (motorcyclist) and a good girl (flower shop girl). The characters are interesting, fun, quirky, and very likeable.
Great conversations, easy and fun banter, and a few laugh-out-loud moments. I loved listening to this story and look forward to more of the series.
Narration: Tiffany Williams has always voiced the Wisteria Witches series and it was fun to hear her doing a different set of characters…. And just as well! I love Tiffany Williams as a narrator.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL
Series: Baker Street Neighborhood Romances #1
Category /Genre: Romantic Comedy
Recommended for: 16+
Listenability: OK for ears
Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy)
This was a lovely sweet romance between a bad boy (motorcyclist) and a good girl (flower shop girl). The characters are interesting, fun, quirky, and very likeable.
Great conversations, easy and fun banter, and a few laugh-out-loud moments. I loved listening to this story and look forward to more of the series.
Narration: Tiffany Williams has always voiced the Wisteria Witches series and it was fun to hear her doing a different set of characters…. And just as well! I love Tiffany Williams as a narrator.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL
Series: Baker Street Neighborhood Romances #1
Category /Genre: Romantic Comedy
Recommended for: 16+
Listenability: OK for ears
Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy)
May 24, 2022
ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL is the first book in the Baker Street Neighborhood Romances series. I expect that each story will stand on its own in this series.
This was a lovely sweet romance between a bad boy (motorcyclist) and a good girl (flower shop girl). The characters are interesting, fun, quirky, and very likeable.
Great conversations, easy and fun banter, and a few laugh-out-loud moments. I loved listening to this story and look forward to more of the series.
Narration: Tiffany Williams has always voiced the Wisteria Witches series and it was fun to hear her doing a different set of characters…. And just as well! I love Tiffany Williams as a narrator.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL
Series: Baker Street Neighborhood Romances #1
Category /Genre: Romantic Comedy
Recommended for: 16+
Listenability: OK for ears
Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy)
This was a lovely sweet romance between a bad boy (motorcyclist) and a good girl (flower shop girl). The characters are interesting, fun, quirky, and very likeable.
Great conversations, easy and fun banter, and a few laugh-out-loud moments. I loved listening to this story and look forward to more of the series.
Narration: Tiffany Williams has always voiced the Wisteria Witches series and it was fun to hear her doing a different set of characters…. And just as well! I love Tiffany Williams as a narrator.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL
Series: Baker Street Neighborhood Romances #1
Category /Genre: Romantic Comedy
Recommended for: 16+
Listenability: OK for ears
Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy)
July 18, 2019
The very first page of this book says, “New York Times Best Selling Author.” However if this book is an example of her writing then that isn’t saying much. It was mostly fluff. Whole chapters of nothing but explicit sex. It doesn’t have much of a storyline. The characters for the most part are not likable. Luca admits he’s a jerk. Tina is a jerk to her friend Rory. Rory does have issues and it doesn’t take much to send her heading for the hills.
There however are a couple of very good lines in the book:
Chapter 6: “It’s just that... if you love someone, they’re not taking up your time. Sitting in traffic takes up your time. Waiting in line takes up your time. But being around someone you care about is a gift.”
Chapter 25: “Love matters.
Actually chapter 25, the last chapter of the book is the best part of the book. However I just cannot recommend this book and based on this book I have no desire to read anything else written by this author.
There however are a couple of very good lines in the book:
Chapter 6: “It’s just that... if you love someone, they’re not taking up your time. Sitting in traffic takes up your time. Waiting in line takes up your time. But being around someone you care about is a gift.”
Chapter 25: “Love matters.
Actually chapter 25, the last chapter of the book is the best part of the book. However I just cannot recommend this book and based on this book I have no desire to read anything else written by this author.
December 27, 2017
I wanted to get into this book, but I couldn't. the first page started off great, but when she introduced her friend, I had to start reading. First, it's pretty hard to believe that it's been ten years since her high school prom date (husband?) died and she hasn't moved on enough to even date someone... I probably could have gotten past that because I know everyone grieves at their own pace. Then, Strong introduces the friend. I feel so horrible for this friend because she clearly has PTSD - she had trigger words that any normal 29-year-old wouldn't be perturbed by, won't date, and doesn't even want a free massage at their spa getaway. Not only this, but the main character is so insensitive/naive, she says the friend's trigger words on purpose to get a rise out of her. Couldn't keep reading either way. Thought it would definitely go downhill from there.
April 2, 2021
This is my review of the audio version as posted on Audible:
'Romancing the Flower Shop Girl' is one of those clean sweet romances that lift up your spirit, with a touch of humour and a nice build-up of the relationship between the main characters. You take to both Tina and Luca right from the start and you follow their banter with a smile that doesn't vanish from your face till the end. There is also a touch of tragedy in Tina's past that makes her a vulnerable girl; and Luca has to be patient and creative to finally break her mental barriers and get the happily ever after:)
Narration by Ms Williams is fantastic. She reads at a right pace, with that smooth switch between characters that makes them all easily recognizable. It's a really good interpretation of the book.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
'Romancing the Flower Shop Girl' is one of those clean sweet romances that lift up your spirit, with a touch of humour and a nice build-up of the relationship between the main characters. You take to both Tina and Luca right from the start and you follow their banter with a smile that doesn't vanish from your face till the end. There is also a touch of tragedy in Tina's past that makes her a vulnerable girl; and Luca has to be patient and creative to finally break her mental barriers and get the happily ever after:)
Narration by Ms Williams is fantastic. She reads at a right pace, with that smooth switch between characters that makes them all easily recognizable. It's a really good interpretation of the book.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
January 19, 2021
I hate romance books! However, Dear Fellow Reader I have a confession to make. I REALLY LIKED THIS ONE. Yep. I hate the the heaving bosom, throbbing manhood, spicy kind. They make my eyes water but not in a good way. I always want to throw those across the room, which because of my impaired vision I must use a Kindle to read, that would be detrimental to my device.I
Why did I like this one? Humor, implied sexuality (hey! I AM NOT A PRUDE! honest), quirky characters and most of all, off beat, dry, laugh out- loud-I-dare-you-humor.
It's a quick read for those to care about that. Oh there is a cat "thrown" in for good measure.
Why did I like this one? Humor, implied sexuality (hey! I AM NOT A PRUDE! honest), quirky characters and most of all, off beat, dry, laugh out- loud-I-dare-you-humor.
It's a quick read for those to care about that. Oh there is a cat "thrown" in for good measure.
April 30, 2021
Love story of Tina and Luca that is full of angst, drama, laughter, and romance. I loved their banter and the sweet gestures Luca made are wonderful especially the charm bracelet and the day he sent the work crew home early. I also love the description he put in his phone instead of Tina’s name for her contact info. Luca fell fast and hard.
Tina is strong, independent, and beautiful but she has a hard time letting go of the past and letting Luca in her present. She does have support from her best friend Rory, even though Rory has major quirks for her own. She’s got her sister Megan too even if she eavesdrops, meddles, and antagonizes Tina.
Tina is strong, independent, and beautiful but she has a hard time letting go of the past and letting Luca in her present. She does have support from her best friend Rory, even though Rory has major quirks for her own. She’s got her sister Megan too even if she eavesdrops, meddles, and antagonizes Tina.
March 24, 2022
This was...quirky. First of all the guy on the cover IS NOT what I envisioned based on the description in the book (usually they're at least close). Tina runs a flower shop with her mother and sister and, is stuck in a rut. Luca purchased a mechanics shop in hopes of repairing motorcycles and has the town in a tizzy. Neither one of these characters felt fleshed out to me; there were too many unanswered emotional questions, and not a lot of relationship resolution (although there is a make-up part). The quirky comes in with Tina's best friend, and honestly, there was just a lot of jumping around. Standalone (but part of a series), and a HEA. But a really abrupt ending.
June 18, 2023
Romancing the Flower Shop Girl is a cute, feel-good romance about the bad boy biker who just bought the garage down the road and the girl who runs the local flower shop. She's been shy of relationships ever since her prom date and love of her life died, not long after the event and he's a take-no-prisoners guy with little finesse and a lot of rough edges so, naturally the sparks fly, but where there are sparks there's sure to be fire eventually, and these two have so much chemistry it's fun to watch them find their way through Better Business Bureau protocol and their own attractions.
A great summer read.
A great summer read.
May 13, 2017
"Blue Roses" received 2 stars.
The novel gained *STARS* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in first five pages."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
The novel failed to gain stars for these items:
NO STAR gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
NO STAR gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I want more!"
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author I will automatically buy anything s/he writes."
The novel gained *STARS* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in first five pages."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
The novel failed to gain stars for these items:
NO STAR gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
NO STAR gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I want more!"
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author I will automatically buy anything s/he writes."
February 11, 2021
Audiobook review: Romancing the Flower Shop Girl is a sweet romance story that is interesting and entertaining. This is my type of romance for days in which I need a pick me up or feel good without a lot of heavy sensual scenes. Strangers to acquaintances and then dating. Biker boy and flower shop girl make for a good story! The narrator did a great job with providing unique voices for each character and appropriate tone inflections for each scene. I received a free copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
March 3, 2021
Romancing the Flower Shop Girl (Baker Street Romance #1) was a good read by Angie Pepper. Tina Gardenia works in a tiny floor shop and doesn't have room for a man in her life. Especially a big strong man like Luca Lowell. He took over the garage down the street. He knows he can't buy flowers for the flower shop girl, so his romantic gestures must get creative. Unfortunately Tina is holding on to something from her past that may be a problem for them. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more by Angie Pepper.
March 10, 2021
Audio book
Book 1 in a series The author makes you feel great , with laughter and wishing for everyone to have a lighter side of life . The world-building was is very well written and the descriptions given make it easy to see everything. Both the characters are very different but they are also very well drawn to each other which makes them totally believable. . This story will have you hooked till the end . Can’t wait for book 2.
The performance of Tiffany Williams is great. Her voice is strong and steady and smooth.
Book 1 in a series The author makes you feel great , with laughter and wishing for everyone to have a lighter side of life . The world-building was is very well written and the descriptions given make it easy to see everything. Both the characters are very different but they are also very well drawn to each other which makes them totally believable. . This story will have you hooked till the end . Can’t wait for book 2.
The performance of Tiffany Williams is great. Her voice is strong and steady and smooth.
March 28, 2021
Romancing the Flower Shop Girl was a nice read that was a great way to spend a few hours. Angie Pepper is a new to me author, and I look forward to reading more.
Good story line, easy to like characters, engaging dialogue, and easy to visualize detailed descriptions. Written as a 3rd person, multi pov with a HEA ending.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Good story line, easy to like characters, engaging dialogue, and easy to visualize detailed descriptions. Written as a 3rd person, multi pov with a HEA ending.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews