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Indiana Summers #2
The Little Flower Shop
How did her love life become a community affair?
Since her divorce, Emily Lucretia—affectionately known as the flower lady to the people of Cemetery, Indiana—has been focused on her flower shop and taking care of her aging aunt and uncle. Her love life is hardly the centerpiece of her busy days.
Saul Culver, the town’s favorite bachelor and owner of the local barbecue joint, has been interested in Emily for a while. But as much as Emily knows about flowers, she can be a little oblivious to her own appeal. Saul is determined to show her just how special she is.
Saul isn’t the only one trying to get Emily out of her shell. Well-meaning locals have started tagging photos of Emily with #theflowerlady on social media—and now the entire town is involved in finding her Mr. Right. Saul won't give up easily. He’s finally caught her attention, and he's determined to convince Emily—and the town—that this is the real deal and not just some passing trend.
Since her divorce, Emily Lucretia—affectionately known as the flower lady to the people of Cemetery, Indiana—has been focused on her flower shop and taking care of her aging aunt and uncle. Her love life is hardly the centerpiece of her busy days.
Saul Culver, the town’s favorite bachelor and owner of the local barbecue joint, has been interested in Emily for a while. But as much as Emily knows about flowers, she can be a little oblivious to her own appeal. Saul is determined to show her just how special she is.
Saul isn’t the only one trying to get Emily out of her shell. Well-meaning locals have started tagging photos of Emily with #theflowerlady on social media—and now the entire town is involved in finding her Mr. Right. Saul won't give up easily. He’s finally caught her attention, and he's determined to convince Emily—and the town—that this is the real deal and not just some passing trend.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2023
498 people are currently reading
4804 people want to read
About the author
Lori Foster
416 books11.7k followersSince first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN.
Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.
Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/
Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.
•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.
•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.
•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.
•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.
•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.
•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.
•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.
•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.
•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.
Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.
Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/
Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.
•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.
•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.
•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.
•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.
•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.
•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.
•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.
•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.
•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 409 reviews
June 2, 2023
The Little Flower Shop is the second book in Lori Foster's "Indiana Summer" series.
I loved being back in the small town of Cemetery and revisiting it's wonderful characters.
This story focuses on Emily and Saule and their slow burning romance until they reach their happily ever after.
Love, laughter and tears make this a wonderful heart-warming read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
I loved being back in the small town of Cemetery and revisiting it's wonderful characters.
This story focuses on Emily and Saule and their slow burning romance until they reach their happily ever after.
Love, laughter and tears make this a wonderful heart-warming read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
May 8, 2023
Sweet, sappy and totally predictable. Just a few plot twists to be found, which was the only thing to keep me from going into a coma while reading this book. Even the supporting characters were boring. I swear this small town was like something out an idealized 1950's. Everyone is in everyone's business, but in a kind, loving, non-judgmental way. The heroine, Emily Lucretia, is thought of as just "perfect". She is kind, caring and loving to everyone and doesn't even realize it when the town hunk, Saul Culver, who is also kind, caring and loving, sets his sights on her. Not much fun, plot wise, with all this kind, caring and loving going on. Just plain boring.
My thanks the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
My thanks the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
May 9, 2023
Emily Lucretia is the “flower lady”. Perfect for the small town of Cemetery, Indiana. Perfect when it comes to her flower shop and perfect for Saul Culver, who just so happens to be the town’s most eligible bachelor. She is also perfectly nice. And perfectly beautiful. But the term perfect unnerves her. As far as Emily is concerned, she is far from perfect. Her life certainly is not perfect. If it was, she would not be alone. She would be with Saul. However, not only are the two very different, they are pretty much opposites. Here is the catch in this latest delight from Lori Foster - Emily and Saul are perfect for each other, and this sensitive story shares their warm and wonderful journey.
Just as Emily is a successful business owner as far as her popular flower shop is concerned, Saul is just as successful with his barbecue restaurant, Saul’s Pit Shop. Being successful business owners is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what they do have in common. For one thing, Saul is a man who knows what he wants, and he has long since set his sights on Emily, and he is ready to move that timeline up. On the one hand while Saul decides to make his feelings and desires known, Emily herself begins to realize that it is time to shake up her life a bit. She really hopes that she can come out of her comfort zone, and this definitely includes letting Saul into her life as more than a neighbor and a friend.
While this book is a touching and compelling romance, there are other stories being told. There are Emily’s Aunt Mabel and Uncle Sullivan. Their story and drama truly touched me. I also loved Gentry, Emily’s employee and his story as well as their bond. Then there is Kathleen. Only readers who have read the first book in this series, The Honeymoon Cottage, and this book, The Little Flower Shop, will get to meet Kathleen, and learn of the antics surrounding her. Then there is Saul. He is the perfect example of a dream man. I loved how observant and sensitive he always was when it came to Emily. Lastly, Emily herself. She was an amazing character. I loved how she grew in this wonderful story.
From scene to scene to scene this book was utterly captivating. Lori Foster writes the most delightful, heartwarming and compelling stories. From characters everyone can relate to, to storylines that are utterly enthralling and to absolutely wonderful happy endings, this and every book by this prolific author will always be memorable. I can’t wait to see whose story will be next in the town of Cemetery, although I have a fairly good idea.
Many thanks to HQN Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Just as Emily is a successful business owner as far as her popular flower shop is concerned, Saul is just as successful with his barbecue restaurant, Saul’s Pit Shop. Being successful business owners is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what they do have in common. For one thing, Saul is a man who knows what he wants, and he has long since set his sights on Emily, and he is ready to move that timeline up. On the one hand while Saul decides to make his feelings and desires known, Emily herself begins to realize that it is time to shake up her life a bit. She really hopes that she can come out of her comfort zone, and this definitely includes letting Saul into her life as more than a neighbor and a friend.
While this book is a touching and compelling romance, there are other stories being told. There are Emily’s Aunt Mabel and Uncle Sullivan. Their story and drama truly touched me. I also loved Gentry, Emily’s employee and his story as well as their bond. Then there is Kathleen. Only readers who have read the first book in this series, The Honeymoon Cottage, and this book, The Little Flower Shop, will get to meet Kathleen, and learn of the antics surrounding her. Then there is Saul. He is the perfect example of a dream man. I loved how observant and sensitive he always was when it came to Emily. Lastly, Emily herself. She was an amazing character. I loved how she grew in this wonderful story.
From scene to scene to scene this book was utterly captivating. Lori Foster writes the most delightful, heartwarming and compelling stories. From characters everyone can relate to, to storylines that are utterly enthralling and to absolutely wonderful happy endings, this and every book by this prolific author will always be memorable. I can’t wait to see whose story will be next in the town of Cemetery, although I have a fairly good idea.
Many thanks to HQN Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 27, 2023
This was such a sweet romance, and the family dynamics was so much fun to read about. My favorite was the Aunt and Uncle I love their romantics storyline. This was such a fun read and that ending was so sweet. I want to own a book/flower shop.
May 9, 2023
With a name like Cemetery you’d expect a dark, morbid town with a giant cemetery… instead you’ll find a sweet lakeside tourist town with plenty of great shops and a touch of whimsy.
Emily Lucretia returned to Cemetery where she opened a flower shop. She loves the shop and being close to the Aunt and Uncle who raised her. The story opens with the wedding of the previous couple where Saul Culver, owner of the local barbecue joint and town’s favorite bachelor, makes his move. Well, truth be told, he has hinted for a while, but Emily has been oblivious. I adored Emily. I am sure you will too.
Saul is an all around good guy and steps up to help Emily when her Uncle takes a spill. Emily’s co-workers and family were wonderful and page time with them made me laugh and tugged at my heartstrings.
The romance had a slow-burn feel to it until Emily began taking charge. The relationship was sweet with a sizzling undercurrent. Both characters show growth and you’ll root for them. The drama was low key and had more unexpected turns and compromises.
We have side threads regarding wards, family, co-workers and, of course, the local mannequin. The story is rounded out with cats, dogs and meddling townsfolk. Foster delivers characters and situations that felt genuine. She’ll have you packing your bags and wanting to move to this small-town with all of its charm.
If you are looking for a feel-good read to curl up with, I highly recommend you take a trip to Cemetery and lose yourself within the pages of The Little Flower Shop. I for one, cannot wait to return.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Emily Lucretia returned to Cemetery where she opened a flower shop. She loves the shop and being close to the Aunt and Uncle who raised her. The story opens with the wedding of the previous couple where Saul Culver, owner of the local barbecue joint and town’s favorite bachelor, makes his move. Well, truth be told, he has hinted for a while, but Emily has been oblivious. I adored Emily. I am sure you will too.
Saul is an all around good guy and steps up to help Emily when her Uncle takes a spill. Emily’s co-workers and family were wonderful and page time with them made me laugh and tugged at my heartstrings.
The romance had a slow-burn feel to it until Emily began taking charge. The relationship was sweet with a sizzling undercurrent. Both characters show growth and you’ll root for them. The drama was low key and had more unexpected turns and compromises.
We have side threads regarding wards, family, co-workers and, of course, the local mannequin. The story is rounded out with cats, dogs and meddling townsfolk. Foster delivers characters and situations that felt genuine. She’ll have you packing your bags and wanting to move to this small-town with all of its charm.
If you are looking for a feel-good read to curl up with, I highly recommend you take a trip to Cemetery and lose yourself within the pages of The Little Flower Shop. I for one, cannot wait to return.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
May 11, 2023
This one was so stinking cute! I loved how through the book Emily seemed to blossom, that she started to see herself as others have always seen her and how she started to build so many relationships with the people around her, Gentry, Mia, Betty and of course Saul. I laughed as Saul realized how is year long campaign of getting Emily to date him went a bit awry, she didn't realize he had been flirting with her for so long and he needed to step up his game. I loved how Kathleen was brought into things and suddenly Emily was internet famous around town.
As great as everybody was with Emily, it was the scenes with Saul's new charge that broke my heart in the best way! I loved that she shared her past with Beck and how they created a bond between them and how excited the 2 of them were about building a new family. The ending was perfect for Emily and Saul!
As great as everybody was with Emily, it was the scenes with Saul's new charge that broke my heart in the best way! I loved that she shared her past with Beck and how they created a bond between them and how excited the 2 of them were about building a new family. The ending was perfect for Emily and Saul!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2023
Actual Rating: 4.5 "#theflowerlady" Stars
See the full review & more at HarlequinJunkie
One of my favorite writers of small-town romance, Lori Foster took us back to quirky Cemetery, Indiana in The Little Flower Shop, where the locals meant well (even as they snooped into each other’s lives), and love was in the air for two very worthy couples.
How fun it was to be back in Cemetery, Indiana–a picturesque small town I wish we could visit in real life. The characters (as with all of Lori Foster’s work) were absolutely lovely. And I adored that we actually got to see *two* new romances blossom while also watching a decades-long relationship flourish through life’s ups and downs... Read More
See the full review & more at HarlequinJunkie
One of my favorite writers of small-town romance, Lori Foster took us back to quirky Cemetery, Indiana in The Little Flower Shop, where the locals meant well (even as they snooped into each other’s lives), and love was in the air for two very worthy couples.
How fun it was to be back in Cemetery, Indiana–a picturesque small town I wish we could visit in real life. The characters (as with all of Lori Foster’s work) were absolutely lovely. And I adored that we actually got to see *two* new romances blossom while also watching a decades-long relationship flourish through life’s ups and downs... Read More
March 30, 2024
A cute romance!
May 15, 2023
The Little Flower Shop is the second book that takes place in the town of Cemetery, Indiana. While it opens where the first book in the series ends, this one works well as a stand alone. This is Saul and Emily's story. Saul has wanted to make Emily his for a long time. The time seems right, he just needs to convince Emily. Emily is a divorcee who has given up on love. She is content with her flower shop and taking care of her aunt and uncle.
As with the first book, I loved the time I spent in this town. The characters are so fun. Emily's aunt and uncle were hilarious. I also loved the town antics with the mannequin. Emily and Saul were adorable together. Emily did frustrate me a bit because 41 is not old! I was glad when she got over that. Their relationship is one you want to root for. #theflowerlady was really fun and kicked off some fun scenes in the town. There is also a bonus romance that was just as adorable. But, I won't spoil it. I highly recommend this one!
As with the first book, I loved the time I spent in this town. The characters are so fun. Emily's aunt and uncle were hilarious. I also loved the town antics with the mannequin. Emily and Saul were adorable together. Emily did frustrate me a bit because 41 is not old! I was glad when she got over that. Their relationship is one you want to root for. #theflowerlady was really fun and kicked off some fun scenes in the town. There is also a bonus romance that was just as adorable. But, I won't spoil it. I highly recommend this one!
May 15, 2023
Cemetery, Indiana. What an odd name for a delightful community! Emily and Saul’s story is a wonderful picture of how grownups find and keep love.
August 12, 2025
The book is not worth reading. The main character is a weak woman that whines a lot. The story is predictable.
The audiobook is really bad because the narrator has a whiney voice with an already whiney character. It’s terrible!
The audiobook is really bad because the narrator has a whiney voice with an already whiney character. It’s terrible!
March 10, 2023
*I received a free copy of The Little Flower Shop. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*
The Little Flower Shop is a cute story, but I had a little trouble connecting with Emily - the main character. She was very sure of herself when it came to her business, but not at all when it came to her personal life. Thank goodness she had amazing friends, her aunt and uncle, and Saul to help her see just how amazing she was!
While some things Emily thought to herself made me cringe a little, I was able to see where those thoughts were coming from. But at the same time, it just felt very foreign to me - so that's totally on me.
I loved the shenanigans Katie was included in during townspeople's fun times in Cemetery even more than in the first novel. And I think that's part of what had Emily loosen up a little bit and completely let herself be a part of the community where she lived.
The romance between her and Saul was slow-burning, and it was very cute how Saul thought he'd been obvious in his flirting, and Emily thought he was just being his friendly self. The Little Flower Shop itself is a place I'd love to visit! I'm not a huge fan of flowers myself, but my husband is - and I love getting him some every now and then. I'm sure both Emily and Gentry would be very helpful.
I hope Lori Foster will continue writing about Cemetery, because the people (uh... I guess I mean the characters) who live there feel like friends now.
If you're looking for a small-town romance, with strong community ties, a family that's definitely not traditional, and characters that help move the story forward, The Little Flower Shop should make its way to your wishlist!
The Little Flower Shop is a cute story, but I had a little trouble connecting with Emily - the main character. She was very sure of herself when it came to her business, but not at all when it came to her personal life. Thank goodness she had amazing friends, her aunt and uncle, and Saul to help her see just how amazing she was!
While some things Emily thought to herself made me cringe a little, I was able to see where those thoughts were coming from. But at the same time, it just felt very foreign to me - so that's totally on me.
I loved the shenanigans Katie was included in during townspeople's fun times in Cemetery even more than in the first novel. And I think that's part of what had Emily loosen up a little bit and completely let herself be a part of the community where she lived.
The romance between her and Saul was slow-burning, and it was very cute how Saul thought he'd been obvious in his flirting, and Emily thought he was just being his friendly self. The Little Flower Shop itself is a place I'd love to visit! I'm not a huge fan of flowers myself, but my husband is - and I love getting him some every now and then. I'm sure both Emily and Gentry would be very helpful.
I hope Lori Foster will continue writing about Cemetery, because the people (uh... I guess I mean the characters) who live there feel like friends now.
If you're looking for a small-town romance, with strong community ties, a family that's definitely not traditional, and characters that help move the story forward, The Little Flower Shop should make its way to your wishlist!
July 19, 2023
I really don't know why I put myself through this again. I guess I forgot how sickeningly sweet, over the top, vomit inducing, eye rolling of a writer she is.
Emily is the most annoying character. In her 40s, she acts like she has no idea everybody loves her. The "Gee wilikers, I'm pretty and people desire me?" doe in the headlights vibe....come on! And what 40 year old doesn't know what a hashtag is? Why write someone so stupid? Oh, and in all of her years, no one in town has seen her hair out of its signature ponytail. She let's it down and everyone is in love and she is all of a sudden a social media star.
We go from her having no clue all the guys are hot for her to being in love in less than 2 weeks, and don't even get me started on Saul.
Saul is possessive and jealous of her friendship with her 25 year old employee, and then again with a similar aged bartender BEFORE they even had one date. Like, questioning which she talks to them kind of jealous. That really seemed red flaggy to me.
Emily decides she wants to someday get a dog and she is strong armed into going to the shelter the next day by the town's busiest and bossiest body. Then she is bullied by the shelter worker into getting an evil cat instead of a dog. But wait! The cat hates her so the shelter worker tells her the cat just misses the dog it bonded with, so maybe Emily could ALSO take the dog? In steps Saul to save the day and that's where I said I just can't do this anymore. 👎
Emily is the most annoying character. In her 40s, she acts like she has no idea everybody loves her. The "Gee wilikers, I'm pretty and people desire me?" doe in the headlights vibe....come on! And what 40 year old doesn't know what a hashtag is? Why write someone so stupid? Oh, and in all of her years, no one in town has seen her hair out of its signature ponytail. She let's it down and everyone is in love and she is all of a sudden a social media star.
We go from her having no clue all the guys are hot for her to being in love in less than 2 weeks, and don't even get me started on Saul.
Saul is possessive and jealous of her friendship with her 25 year old employee, and then again with a similar aged bartender BEFORE they even had one date. Like, questioning which she talks to them kind of jealous. That really seemed red flaggy to me.
Emily decides she wants to someday get a dog and she is strong armed into going to the shelter the next day by the town's busiest and bossiest body. Then she is bullied by the shelter worker into getting an evil cat instead of a dog. But wait! The cat hates her so the shelter worker tells her the cat just misses the dog it bonded with, so maybe Emily could ALSO take the dog? In steps Saul to save the day and that's where I said I just can't do this anymore. 👎
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2023
Cemetery, Indiana would be a place to visit! The small town has the quirkiest characters, supporting friendships, and matchmaking peeps to round out the fun! With an entire town invested in Saul and Emily’s relationship, you know things were bound to get interesting and they did! Emily may have been her own enemy sometimes, but she had valid concerns. Saul had his own hang ups but usually came across way more confident. Together, Emily and Saul were cute and obviously meant to be. Add in some extra relations, Kathleen the creepy yet entertaining mannequin, and a couple of furry rescue friends…mwuah! Another heartwarming tale from Foster takes the cake!
I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley/author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley/author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 27, 2023
This book was.... Fine. Saccharine. It got repetitive with how lovely and "perfect" Emily was, and how much she loved her town and family. Most characters were fairly two dimensional and even at the end of the book I didn't feel like I really knew them. Easy read though, a simple feel-good story, but not enough substance for me.
October 26, 2024
The Little Flower Shop by Lori Foster
Indiana Summers #2
333-page Kindle Ebook ends on 326
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Praise, Letter to Readers with Author's Links, Albany, Indiana; Florist MC, Business Owner, Friendships, We Begin at the End of the Last Book, Weddings, Quadragenarian, Car Wrecks, Shy Vs Extrovert Trope, Wallflower, Multiple POVs, Boldness, In Between Dances Trope, Divorcée, New Start Trope, Pets, Dating, Social Media, Long Chapters, Small-Town Drama, Sex, Vicenarians, Tricenarian, Septuagenarian, Octogenarian, Nonagenarian, Denarian, Lake, Mannequin, Restaurant, So Sweet Makes Sugar Taste Like Salt Vibe, Overcoming Insecurities, Author's Bibliography, Sneak Peak at The Love Shack - Indiana Summers #3
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½🌷🛍🍖
My thoughts:🔖Page 45 of 333 [Chapter] 3 - How many car crash orphans are allowed in a series, and how many car accident-related dramas? I was surprised only 2 chapters in and I'm done with cars. They also may be too bubbly for me this time around, Mimi was a bit too much.
🔖112 [Chapter] 6 - This is too cute! I'm enjoying Gentry as much as the main couple, I was hoping he would be the MC in book 3, but it seems like he may get the secondary storyline.
🔖156 [Chapter] 8 - Another one? Okay, this is getting ridiculous, we're up to 3 car crashes that killed a married couple and produced orphans, and one that wasn't fatal but wrecked a marriage. Another dog mid-book, but at least this one wasn't on the cover, another woman in a dry spell, this one doubled. I'm just saying she's not subtle with the patterns.
🔖220 [Chapter] 11 - This story is moving faster than expected with little progress in the romance, that's different for sure.
This story had a lot in common with the previous story and even within it, there were some repeated tropes I'm not a fan of those. I wanted more from the characters of the first book besides mentionings. The dialogue was too syrupy for my taste but overall the story was quite enjoyable. The best part is now I can read The Love Shack, and I have no clue who's getting their happy ending, I hope it's everyone including the sisters from book 1, who weren't mentioned in this story.
Recommend to others: Yes. I'm glad I came across this series, it fun although a bit too sugary at times.
Indiana Summers
1. The Honeymoon Cottage (2022)
2. The Little Flower Shop (2023)
3. The Love Shack (2024)
Indiana Summers #2
333-page Kindle Ebook ends on 326
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Praise, Letter to Readers with Author's Links, Albany, Indiana; Florist MC, Business Owner, Friendships, We Begin at the End of the Last Book, Weddings, Quadragenarian, Car Wrecks, Shy Vs Extrovert Trope, Wallflower, Multiple POVs, Boldness, In Between Dances Trope, Divorcée, New Start Trope, Pets, Dating, Social Media, Long Chapters, Small-Town Drama, Sex, Vicenarians, Tricenarian, Septuagenarian, Octogenarian, Nonagenarian, Denarian, Lake, Mannequin, Restaurant, So Sweet Makes Sugar Taste Like Salt Vibe, Overcoming Insecurities, Author's Bibliography, Sneak Peak at The Love Shack - Indiana Summers #3
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½🌷🛍🍖
My thoughts:🔖Page 45 of 333 [Chapter] 3 - How many car crash orphans are allowed in a series, and how many car accident-related dramas? I was surprised only 2 chapters in and I'm done with cars. They also may be too bubbly for me this time around, Mimi was a bit too much.
🔖112 [Chapter] 6 - This is too cute! I'm enjoying Gentry as much as the main couple, I was hoping he would be the MC in book 3, but it seems like he may get the secondary storyline.
🔖156 [Chapter] 8 - Another one? Okay, this is getting ridiculous, we're up to 3 car crashes that killed a married couple and produced orphans, and one that wasn't fatal but wrecked a marriage. Another dog mid-book, but at least this one wasn't on the cover, another woman in a dry spell, this one doubled. I'm just saying she's not subtle with the patterns.
🔖220 [Chapter] 11 - This story is moving faster than expected with little progress in the romance, that's different for sure.
This story had a lot in common with the previous story and even within it, there were some repeated tropes I'm not a fan of those. I wanted more from the characters of the first book besides mentionings. The dialogue was too syrupy for my taste but overall the story was quite enjoyable. The best part is now I can read The Love Shack, and I have no clue who's getting their happy ending, I hope it's everyone including the sisters from book 1, who weren't mentioned in this story.
Recommend to others: Yes. I'm glad I came across this series, it fun although a bit too sugary at times.
Indiana Summers
1. The Honeymoon Cottage (2022)
2. The Little Flower Shop (2023)
3. The Love Shack (2024)
May 10, 2023
2.5 rounded to 3
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
The Little Flower Shop is the second women's fiction / romance in Lori Foster's Indiana Summer series. This can be read as a standalone, while it's set in the same small town the main characters don't actually have very little interaction with the couples from the first book.
This was an enjoyable read but unfortunately fell flat for me in many ways. Yet by looking at the reviews maybe it was obviously a me problem and not the book itself. I just didn't end up connecting with either of the couples that the romance arcs focused on. I was also quickly exhausted with everyone being described as good-looking, hot, handsome, beautiful, even a 14 year old boy. It was over emphasized and where's the diversity? It made it seem like everyone in this small town looks like models. OK we get it, everyone wants to get with the forty year old flower shop owner who doesn't know how gorgeous she is. Also the fact that the main female character was so hung up on a 2 year age gap 🙄 seriously, she was so hung up on everyone's age. Don't get me started on a certain big declaration of feelings happening over a phone call.
The highlight for me in all honesty was the grandparents. Who are 71 and 81 and still very much in love and proud of it. I adored them so much and hope me and my husband are just like them at that age.
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
The Little Flower Shop is the second women's fiction / romance in Lori Foster's Indiana Summer series. This can be read as a standalone, while it's set in the same small town the main characters don't actually have very little interaction with the couples from the first book.
This was an enjoyable read but unfortunately fell flat for me in many ways. Yet by looking at the reviews maybe it was obviously a me problem and not the book itself. I just didn't end up connecting with either of the couples that the romance arcs focused on. I was also quickly exhausted with everyone being described as good-looking, hot, handsome, beautiful, even a 14 year old boy. It was over emphasized and where's the diversity? It made it seem like everyone in this small town looks like models. OK we get it, everyone wants to get with the forty year old flower shop owner who doesn't know how gorgeous she is. Also the fact that the main female character was so hung up on a 2 year age gap 🙄 seriously, she was so hung up on everyone's age. Don't get me started on a certain big declaration of feelings happening over a phone call.
The highlight for me in all honesty was the grandparents. Who are 71 and 81 and still very much in love and proud of it. I adored them so much and hope me and my husband are just like them at that age.
May 11, 2023
Welcome back to Cemetery, Indiana for The Little Flower Shop. This is the second book in the Indiana Summer series and it is most definitely a winner!
This is a heartwarming and fabulous read, especially if you love small town romance. We were introduced to the main characters, Emily, owner of the Little Flower Shop and Saul, owner of the local BBQ Pit in the first book of the series The Honeymoon Cottage. Emily has the reputation of being perfect, much to her dismay, due to her accepting nature and wonderful, caring treatment of her customers, family, and friends. Always looking her best and making her flower shop a great place to visit, she does not even recognize her own appeal. Saul, the local BBQ chef is good looking, easy going and the biggest catch of all the Cemetery men. But Saul has his own ideas of who he wants and Emily is in his sights! All he has to do is convince Emily of his intentions!
The cast of characters introduced to us in the first book is back in all their glory including Kathleen the mannequin who turns up in all the best places. There are also a few new characters that fit perfectly into the storyline and make you want more of their stories as well. I can’t think I a single thing I didn’t enjoy about this book!
This is a heartwarming and fabulous read, especially if you love small town romance. We were introduced to the main characters, Emily, owner of the Little Flower Shop and Saul, owner of the local BBQ Pit in the first book of the series The Honeymoon Cottage. Emily has the reputation of being perfect, much to her dismay, due to her accepting nature and wonderful, caring treatment of her customers, family, and friends. Always looking her best and making her flower shop a great place to visit, she does not even recognize her own appeal. Saul, the local BBQ chef is good looking, easy going and the biggest catch of all the Cemetery men. But Saul has his own ideas of who he wants and Emily is in his sights! All he has to do is convince Emily of his intentions!
The cast of characters introduced to us in the first book is back in all their glory including Kathleen the mannequin who turns up in all the best places. There are also a few new characters that fit perfectly into the storyline and make you want more of their stories as well. I can’t think I a single thing I didn’t enjoy about this book!
May 9, 2023
3.5 stars
Ms Foster brings us back to Cemetery, IN in this sequential addition to the series. This time we get to spend time with Emily and Saul (previous secondary characters) as well as meeting new characters.
This is a sweet book that has feel good themes woven throughout. Of the characters we spend the most time with, Emily evolves the most. It’s not that she really needed the change, she just needed someone to take the blinders off to really see the world around her.
In the well written story, Ms Foster shows us different types of love. That of friends, family, and community in addition to budding romantic relationships. We also see the power a good friend can have in opening up a wounded heart.
The Little Flower Shop is a “perfect” feel good read and I am curious to see if we get to know Cemetery better in the future.
Ms Foster brings us back to Cemetery, IN in this sequential addition to the series. This time we get to spend time with Emily and Saul (previous secondary characters) as well as meeting new characters.
This is a sweet book that has feel good themes woven throughout. Of the characters we spend the most time with, Emily evolves the most. It’s not that she really needed the change, she just needed someone to take the blinders off to really see the world around her.
In the well written story, Ms Foster shows us different types of love. That of friends, family, and community in addition to budding romantic relationships. We also see the power a good friend can have in opening up a wounded heart.
The Little Flower Shop is a “perfect” feel good read and I am curious to see if we get to know Cemetery better in the future.
June 3, 2023
This was a very heartwarming story and I enjoyed how it felt like a found family or at least Emily having all these people she could count on in addition to her aunt and uncle. The flower lady hashtag and the continued hilarity with Kathleen the maniquin was funny
June 18, 2023
Book #2 in the Indiana Summer series was just as entertaining as the first one. One of my favorite genres is a small town atmosphere,where everyone knows everyone’s business 😝 I loved Emily & Saul’s love story,but my heart belongs to Gentry. Kathleen was entertaining as usual. Hopefully there’s more to come! Thank you Lori Foster for keeping up entertained,your books never disappoint ♥️
October 3, 2024
Love this book.
October 16, 2023
A story about a woman at 41 decides she needs to change up her life since everyone sees her as perfect. The book was an easy read.
June 21, 2023
Nice love story with a good balance of sad and happy
February 7, 2024
This book was "meet cute" but predictable and not my favorite.
July 12, 2025
3.5 stars. cute fast read. good characters with good hearts. plot is drama free and only a little spicy.
August 10, 2024
3.5 rounded up
Emily is tired of everyone describing her as perfect, but she, and pretty much everyone else in this book is perfect.
“You really are. Your flowers are perfect, and you’re perfectly nice, and even now, you look perfectly beautiful.” Ch 1
They are all gorgeous and kind and helpful and all the things. This, at times, was a little much for me - I also kind of wish ALL the relationships in the book didn’t immediately work out and end up perfect. But, I did enjoy this happy little book during a week that was mentally tough. It is somewhat refreshing to just have a bunch of kind people to read about whenever the world seems hard.
Spice 2 🌶️ / 5 - most scenes are closed door but maybe one more open
“And she, imperfect Emily Lucretia, Hashtag The Flower Lady, now wanted it all.” Ch 14
“Turn the tables. Don’t let anyone get the better of you. It can only bother you if you let it.” Ch 15
Emily is tired of everyone describing her as perfect, but she, and pretty much everyone else in this book is perfect.
“You really are. Your flowers are perfect, and you’re perfectly nice, and even now, you look perfectly beautiful.” Ch 1
They are all gorgeous and kind and helpful and all the things. This, at times, was a little much for me - I also kind of wish ALL the relationships in the book didn’t immediately work out and end up perfect. But, I did enjoy this happy little book during a week that was mentally tough. It is somewhat refreshing to just have a bunch of kind people to read about whenever the world seems hard.
Spice 2 🌶️ / 5 - most scenes are closed door but maybe one more open
“And she, imperfect Emily Lucretia, Hashtag The Flower Lady, now wanted it all.” Ch 14
“Turn the tables. Don’t let anyone get the better of you. It can only bother you if you let it.” Ch 15
May 8, 2025
Too cheesy, too flat, too predictable. Not for me.
July 12, 2023
I got hooked on the quirky little town and its residents as soon as I read Honeymoon Cottage. Needless to say, Cemetery, Indiana is a unique destination. 😉
I’ve mentioned more than once that I adore pretty much everything offered by this author, but I tend to lean more toward her romantic suspense. There’s something appealing about a light romance with witty characters and a small town full of quirkiness. And who can resist a town mascot that seems to take on a life of “her” own?
I think what I like most about the Indiana Summers (Cemetery Indiana) series is the way that everyone seems to look out for each other. That’s actually the new theme for the town. It’s kind of a refreshing concept to see businesses actually working with each other instead of trying to compete and one-up each other. That alone makes this a true “feel good” series.
I’m pretty sure that the series will continue and I can’t wait to see what the residents of this special close-knit town get into next. ❤
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of The Little Flower Shop. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I’ve mentioned more than once that I adore pretty much everything offered by this author, but I tend to lean more toward her romantic suspense. There’s something appealing about a light romance with witty characters and a small town full of quirkiness. And who can resist a town mascot that seems to take on a life of “her” own?
I think what I like most about the Indiana Summers (Cemetery Indiana) series is the way that everyone seems to look out for each other. That’s actually the new theme for the town. It’s kind of a refreshing concept to see businesses actually working with each other instead of trying to compete and one-up each other. That alone makes this a true “feel good” series.
I’m pretty sure that the series will continue and I can’t wait to see what the residents of this special close-knit town get into next. ❤
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of The Little Flower Shop. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 28, 2023
I received and ARC and this is my honest review.
I would really enjoy visit Cemetery. The way this town is describe sound like the perfect little town filled with ppl who loves to have fun and gossip.
The gossip during this story cracked me up. I loved it! I really enjoyed the little stories that we got with Gentry/Mila & Mabel/Sullivan apart from Emily & Saul.
I enjoyed how Emily and Beck’s pass trauma gave them a bond and their way of connected. Saul who pictures a vision and brought it to life.
This story is definitely a perfect summer ready. It’s fun, lol moment, relatable, romantic and so much more.
I would really enjoy visit Cemetery. The way this town is describe sound like the perfect little town filled with ppl who loves to have fun and gossip.
The gossip during this story cracked me up. I loved it! I really enjoyed the little stories that we got with Gentry/Mila & Mabel/Sullivan apart from Emily & Saul.
I enjoyed how Emily and Beck’s pass trauma gave them a bond and their way of connected. Saul who pictures a vision and brought it to life.
This story is definitely a perfect summer ready. It’s fun, lol moment, relatable, romantic and so much more.
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