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Bloom Sisters #1
Hoping for Hawthorne
His sister's friend.
Her childhood crush.
All grown up.
Hawthorne Bloom is living for the moment, until a beautiful stranger with intriguingly familiar eyes gives him a tongue lashing he'll never forget. When she shows up again at a family event, Hawthorne finds himself trying to dig a way out of a hole he didn't realize he was in.
When Avery Chase returns to Indiana, the last thing she expects is to run into her childhood crush, let alone to realize in the years since she left, he's turned into a complete jerk. Hoping for a man to change is a mistake she's made once before and is determined not to make again.
Then again, it's hard to resist when your childhood crush finally notices you.
Her childhood crush.
All grown up.
Hawthorne Bloom is living for the moment, until a beautiful stranger with intriguingly familiar eyes gives him a tongue lashing he'll never forget. When she shows up again at a family event, Hawthorne finds himself trying to dig a way out of a hole he didn't realize he was in.
When Avery Chase returns to Indiana, the last thing she expects is to run into her childhood crush, let alone to realize in the years since she left, he's turned into a complete jerk. Hoping for a man to change is a mistake she's made once before and is determined not to make again.
Then again, it's hard to resist when your childhood crush finally notices you.
Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2023
374 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
About the author
Tara Grace Ericson
36 books339 followersTara Grace Ericson
faith, hope, and happily ever after
Tara writes small-town, contemporary Christian romance. She loves stories of modern-day characters struggling to obey God, forgive others, and accept themselves - oh, and finding their happily-ever-after along the way.
She lives in Southwest Missouri with her husband and two sons, writing full-time, in between chasing a two toddlers!
Get a free e-book by signing up for Tara's newsletter at her website!
Follow on instagram: www.instagram.com/taraericsonauthor
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faith, hope, and happily ever after
Tara writes small-town, contemporary Christian romance. She loves stories of modern-day characters struggling to obey God, forgive others, and accept themselves - oh, and finding their happily-ever-after along the way.
She lives in Southwest Missouri with her husband and two sons, writing full-time, in between chasing a two toddlers!
Get a free e-book by signing up for Tara's newsletter at her website!
Follow on instagram: www.instagram.com/taraericsonauthor
Follow on facebook:
www.facebook.com/taraericsonauthor
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
August 31, 2023
3.5 stars
This was a sweet romance and a promising start to a new series. It was a little on the shorter side and it took a while for the main couple to get together, but I thought it was good.
This was a sweet romance and a promising start to a new series. It was a little on the shorter side and it took a while for the main couple to get together, but I thought it was good.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Lorana Hoopes
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance
Length: 3h 41m
August 30, 2023
Upon Avery's return after being gone for 13 years, fate takes her to a restaurant where a group of rowdy guys are harassing a waitress. Without hesitation, Avery steps in to puts them in their place, calling out one of them by name - Hawthorne. To his surprise, he is confronted by a woman he doesn't recognize.
It isn't until he sees Avery with his own sisters that the puzzle pieces start to fall into place, and he realizes who she is. The unexpected reunion sends both of them on a journey of rediscovery and reconnection.
HOPING FOR HAWTHORNE
● Avery (30) & Hawthorne (34)
● Hawthorne’s sister’s friend
● childhood crush
● Christian romance
● small-town
The Bloom Sisters (+ their brother) series:
#1 Hawthorne & Avery - Hoping for Hawthorne
#2 Daisy & Lance - A Date for Daisy
#3 Poppy & Harrison - Poppy’s Proposal
#4 Lavender & Emmett - Lavender and Lace
#5 Lily & Josh - Longing for Lily
#6 Rose & Tates - Resisting Rose
#7 Andi & Ross - Dancing with Dandelion
It isn't until he sees Avery with his own sisters that the puzzle pieces start to fall into place, and he realizes who she is. The unexpected reunion sends both of them on a journey of rediscovery and reconnection.
HOPING FOR HAWTHORNE
● Avery (30) & Hawthorne (34)
● Hawthorne’s sister’s friend
● childhood crush
● Christian romance
● small-town
The Bloom Sisters (+ their brother) series:
#1 Hawthorne & Avery - Hoping for Hawthorne
#2 Daisy & Lance - A Date for Daisy
#3 Poppy & Harrison - Poppy’s Proposal
#4 Lavender & Emmett - Lavender and Lace
#5 Lily & Josh - Longing for Lily
#6 Rose & Tates - Resisting Rose
#7 Andi & Ross - Dancing with Dandelion
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Lorana Hoopes
Length: 3H 41M
March 15, 2022
Bloom Family Intro
I really struggled to relate to this story at first even though I loved the writing style. But as the plot played out I understood the characters more and realized how true to life their shortcomings really were. This is a sweet love story and a fun family with quirky names to get to know and follow throughout the Bloom Family series! I really appreciate the Christian world view as well.
I really struggled to relate to this story at first even though I loved the writing style. But as the plot played out I understood the characters more and realized how true to life their shortcomings really were. This is a sweet love story and a fun family with quirky names to get to know and follow throughout the Bloom Family series! I really appreciate the Christian world view as well.
October 1, 2022
Cute start to a series.
March 9, 2020
I’m so excited about this series! What a strong beginning. I loved Hawthorne’s growth, and I can’t wait to read more about the other Bloom siblings.
March 24, 2020
I was absolutely charmed by this story and characters! I’m always a little anxious to try a new author, but the book blurb sounded right up my alley! I’m so happy that I did! Hoping for Hawthorne was super cute and the perfect introduction to this series! The reader is introduced to the Bloom family and I have to say that I am anxiously anticipating the rest of this series. Avery and Hawthorne were both easy to like and their banter was charming and flirty! I loved Avery’s direct and confident personality! She didn’t compromise her expectations and that was so refreshing! I really enjoyed the growth in Hawthorne and how it was realistic and well paced even with the limited pages of a novella! I really enjoyed this novella and can’t wait for more from this author!
March 24, 2020
When I was asked to read this book I had no idea what I was getting into since I’d never heard of the author but as a sucker for contemporary romance I decided to give it a chance, and I’m glad I did! After a tiny bit of an unsure start I found myself lost in the story and thoroughly enjoying it! Hawthorne wasn’t all that admirable at the start but I loved watching him find his way back to the right path and the man God wanted him to be! Avery was spunky and I enjoyed her character and the way she didn’t back down from a challenge. The two of them were really cute together and even though this was a short novella you could really feel the romance-and that first kiss deserves all the heart eyes! The author packed a lot into this novella, introducing us to a whole cast of characters without bogging the reader down or causing confusion and also creating an authentic relationship! I really enjoyed the whole Bloom family and I’m looking forward to their stories! Also, Hawthorne’s friend Josh was a favorite of mine and I’m really hoping he ends up with a Bloom sister!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 1, 2020
Ok, so I have been in a bit of a reading slump for the past week and this book was the perfect cure. I was laughing a lot and I think Tara heard a little too much from me while I was reading this.
It was the perfect little read for a dreary day and perked me right up. Hoping for Hawthorne introduced most of the sisters, who will appear in the later books of the series. Although we don't see a ton of their personalities, it was a good start.
It's a short review, but I am eager to see what comes next in this series.
Rating: 5/5
Crude Language: N/A
Romance: some kissing
Spiritual: a solid focus throughout the novella
Violence: N/A
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
It was the perfect little read for a dreary day and perked me right up. Hoping for Hawthorne introduced most of the sisters, who will appear in the later books of the series. Although we don't see a ton of their personalities, it was a good start.
It's a short review, but I am eager to see what comes next in this series.
Rating: 5/5
Crude Language: N/A
Romance: some kissing
Spiritual: a solid focus throughout the novella
Violence: N/A
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
September 25, 2020
I have to tell ya, this was such a cute novella and I loved it from the start!
First and foremost, I loved that the author focused on God throughout the story!
Second, I really enjoy stories that portray the dynamics of a big family. It just makes the book feel a little more homey...at least in my opinion.
And third, I just loved the romance that bloomed between Avery and Hawthorne! One not remembering the other at first, the awkward first interaction after a dozen or so years apart, it was all just so perfect.
In my opinion, this novella was too short. I could’ve totally gone for 10 or more chapters. 😁😁 But alas, it served its purpose as a great novella and a great introduction to a new series by the author! I can’t wait to read the next book!
First and foremost, I loved that the author focused on God throughout the story!
Second, I really enjoy stories that portray the dynamics of a big family. It just makes the book feel a little more homey...at least in my opinion.
And third, I just loved the romance that bloomed between Avery and Hawthorne! One not remembering the other at first, the awkward first interaction after a dozen or so years apart, it was all just so perfect.
In my opinion, this novella was too short. I could’ve totally gone for 10 or more chapters. 😁😁 But alas, it served its purpose as a great novella and a great introduction to a new series by the author! I can’t wait to read the next book!
March 23, 2020
Hoping for Hawthorne by Tara Grace Ericson is a really cute and well paced story that introduces us to the Bloom family siblings, who will each have their own book. This novella is a great introduction to all of the siblings and I’m looking forward to reading their stories.
In this first story, we meet Hawthorne Bloom who is having trouble dealing with something in his past, and Avery, who has always had a crush on Hawthorne. I really enjoyed their story. I really liked both characters and how their relationship progressed. I especially liked seeing Hawthorne’s growth in this story. And their first meet after Avery comes back to town, is one I won’t soon forget!
I am really looking forward to Daisy’s story, which is next!
In this first story, we meet Hawthorne Bloom who is having trouble dealing with something in his past, and Avery, who has always had a crush on Hawthorne. I really enjoyed their story. I really liked both characters and how their relationship progressed. I especially liked seeing Hawthorne’s growth in this story. And their first meet after Avery comes back to town, is one I won’t soon forget!
I am really looking forward to Daisy’s story, which is next!
March 18, 2020
AHH that was so cute!! Review to come!
October 18, 2022
Falling in love with your sister's friend, what could go wrong? I'm excited to follow the rest of the Bloom siblings through this series.
April 10, 2022
My first introduction to Tara Grace Ericson's writing and I'm hooked on this series now! Love the way she's anchored it at the Bloom family farm with all the siblings working at their own specialties. Well, except for Hawthorne who is aimlessly putting in the grunt time but lacking in initiative. In fact, he's been kind of cruising through life after a professional setback and, truthfully, wallowing a bit more than is healthy.
Hawthorne and Avery's meet-cute is anything but cute, though I wanted to stand up and cheer for Avery's spunky stand-up-for-the-underdog attitude. But I wasn't as enamoured with Hawthorne. This is where I need to post a disclaimer: you will likely not be impressed with Hawthorne upon first acquaintance, likely not even on the second, but be patient and let Ericson work her storytelling magic and I guarantee you'll come around to Team Hawthorne by the end of the book!
Loved the way this author developed a solid, realistic romance with a strong heroine who knows what she wants from a relationship and isn't willing to settle for anything less. And that Hawthorne humbles himself to get back on track -- both in his life and with God -- realizing that becoming vulnerable is the path to becoming stronger.
When I think about it, Ericson managed to pack a lot of story (and truth) in this novella length start to the Bloom Sisters series. A beautiful redemption story.
Oh -- and I listened to the audible edition narrated by Lorana Hoopes who made the time spent with these characters that much more enjoyable. Super jazzed that the whole series is on audible!
Hawthorne and Avery's meet-cute is anything but cute, though I wanted to stand up and cheer for Avery's spunky stand-up-for-the-underdog attitude. But I wasn't as enamoured with Hawthorne. This is where I need to post a disclaimer: you will likely not be impressed with Hawthorne upon first acquaintance, likely not even on the second, but be patient and let Ericson work her storytelling magic and I guarantee you'll come around to Team Hawthorne by the end of the book!
Loved the way this author developed a solid, realistic romance with a strong heroine who knows what she wants from a relationship and isn't willing to settle for anything less. And that Hawthorne humbles himself to get back on track -- both in his life and with God -- realizing that becoming vulnerable is the path to becoming stronger.
When I think about it, Ericson managed to pack a lot of story (and truth) in this novella length start to the Bloom Sisters series. A beautiful redemption story.
Oh -- and I listened to the audible edition narrated by Lorana Hoopes who made the time spent with these characters that much more enjoyable. Super jazzed that the whole series is on audible!
August 6, 2020
Tara Grace Ericson's new Bloom Sisters Series starts with a prequel novella—about their brother! Hawthorne Bloom grew up in a family with six sisters, and he's watched each of them come into their own and contribute to the family business in some way. He wanted more—his own company, his own ventures. But when life knocks him down and sends him back to the farm, Hawthorne isn't sure where his worth comes from anymore.
Avery Chase is excited to be back in her hometown. Her hope of reconnecting with old friends is snuffed when she sees Hawthorne Bloom—her old crush—hanging around some really questionable acquaintances and harassing their waitress. When she speaks up, it's clear Hawthorne doesn't remember her. Maybe that's for the best, even if his younger sisters were her best friends once upon a time.
Challenged by the set down from a woman who clearly knew him even if he couldn't recall her, Hawthorne begins taking stock of his life. Is he really contributing to the world? Could he ever find a place where he could use his strengths, just like his sisters have, without letting other people down?
This story delves into deep issues while bringing hope to the reader. The romance is sweet, and you can see the beginning threads of future books in this series as we get to know Hawthorne's sisters. I can't wait to read more about the Bloom family!
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
Avery Chase is excited to be back in her hometown. Her hope of reconnecting with old friends is snuffed when she sees Hawthorne Bloom—her old crush—hanging around some really questionable acquaintances and harassing their waitress. When she speaks up, it's clear Hawthorne doesn't remember her. Maybe that's for the best, even if his younger sisters were her best friends once upon a time.
Challenged by the set down from a woman who clearly knew him even if he couldn't recall her, Hawthorne begins taking stock of his life. Is he really contributing to the world? Could he ever find a place where he could use his strengths, just like his sisters have, without letting other people down?
This story delves into deep issues while bringing hope to the reader. The romance is sweet, and you can see the beginning threads of future books in this series as we get to know Hawthorne's sisters. I can't wait to read more about the Bloom family!
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.dreamwidth.org
June 26, 2025
Hawthorne Bloom has grown up on the family farm. With 6 perfect sisters, who always do the right thing. He created his own business quite young, but it went bust. So now he has been wallowing in self pity. Hanging out in bars with his college friends— not a good choice.
But when Avery, a friend of his sister’s in high school returns, his heart takes interest. The last time he saw her she was young, not interesting to him.
When Avery runs into Hawthorne at a local hangout(bar) she is really disappointed in him. He doesn’t remember her and he and his buddies are harassing the waitress. She lights into him, calling him by name. Stomping out.
He sees the most beautiful woman he’s seen in a long time, how does she know him?
The more his family welcomes Avery back into their family life, the more he is drawn to her.
I loved this beginning to a new series. There are several only disappointment I have is Avery being in the bar. This seems to be a trend in the more contemporary novels. If you are a Christian, as Avery is, there should be no appearance of conforming to the world. I look forward to the rest of the series. This was an audio I received through BookFunnel.
But when Avery, a friend of his sister’s in high school returns, his heart takes interest. The last time he saw her she was young, not interesting to him.
When Avery runs into Hawthorne at a local hangout(bar) she is really disappointed in him. He doesn’t remember her and he and his buddies are harassing the waitress. She lights into him, calling him by name. Stomping out.
He sees the most beautiful woman he’s seen in a long time, how does she know him?
The more his family welcomes Avery back into their family life, the more he is drawn to her.
I loved this beginning to a new series. There are several only disappointment I have is Avery being in the bar. This seems to be a trend in the more contemporary novels. If you are a Christian, as Avery is, there should be no appearance of conforming to the world. I look forward to the rest of the series. This was an audio I received through BookFunnel.
October 8, 2024
I enjoyed this story as an audiobook. This story is narrated by Lorana Hoopes. Lorana is an amazing narrator that I have listened to on many occasions. She does an amazing job at giving each character their own distinct voice so you can truly enjoy the audiobook without worrying about telling the characters apart.
I love a good redemption story and this is Hawthorne’s. I’m so glad he is able to get his life back on track and truly find who he is and what he wants in life. It may have taken a giant shove and a stern talking to from a past friend to correct him but he got there. As for Avery, I’m so glad she didn’t compromise her values just a for a fantasy she had as a teenager. I’m proud of her for saying what she needed and not expecting less than what she deserved. That takes such confidence in yourself. This is a dual pov, clean romance with Christian elements. It is the beginning of a series so it is a great place to start reading.
I love a good redemption story and this is Hawthorne’s. I’m so glad he is able to get his life back on track and truly find who he is and what he wants in life. It may have taken a giant shove and a stern talking to from a past friend to correct him but he got there. As for Avery, I’m so glad she didn’t compromise her values just a for a fantasy she had as a teenager. I’m proud of her for saying what she needed and not expecting less than what she deserved. That takes such confidence in yourself. This is a dual pov, clean romance with Christian elements. It is the beginning of a series so it is a great place to start reading.
June 23, 2020
Hathorne is surrounded by women, yet he still can't seem to settle down with the right girl. Until Avery. I loved this introduction to the Bloom family and can't wait to see where these stories take me next!
July 31, 2023
Such a sweet Novella - I really loved Hawthorne & Avery’s story!! Excited for Daisy’s next!
March 3, 2020
A very sweet, well paced novella!
I really enjoyed this story, and how we get a glimpse into this brand new series by a new to me author!
Looking forward to reading more!
I received a complementary copy of this book from the author. My opinion is my own.
I really enjoyed this story, and how we get a glimpse into this brand new series by a new to me author!
Looking forward to reading more!
I received a complementary copy of this book from the author. My opinion is my own.
March 23, 2022
I have been wanting to read this series for so long and just had such a long list of other books to read. But I finally moved it to top of my list and I'm excited to have finally started. I highly enjoyed Hawthorne and Avery's story and look forward to seeing more of them (I assume) throughput the rest of the series. I had this feeling these books connect with other books the author has written in other series but I didn't feel lost having not read all those. I did read her Freedom Ridge book and that resort is referenced in Hoping for Hawthorne. Overall it had all the elements I enjoy in a good, clean romance novel, including off the charts chemistry.
March 23, 2020
Hoping for Hawthorne is a fun, family-filled Bloom Family novella that kicks off the Bloom Sister Series releasing this summer. I fell in love with the Bloom family immediately. Their close-knit relationships are both complicated and heartwarming. It was a pleasure to sit around the kitchen table with them all (except Andi!).
I enjoyed learning about the Bloom family farm so much that I would love to visit! It was exciting to see how the Bloom sisters had taken charge of certain aspects of the farm, and as a result, made the business more modern and trendy. The rustic feel definitely gave the story--and the Bloom family--an extra ounce of charm.
Avery, although NOT a Bloom family member, is probably my favorite. I loved her confidence from the very beginning, and her willingness to be open and honest with everyone--whether it was going to be a pleasant experience or not!
Hawthorne (who has THE BEST name, by the way) is a bit lost and a lot stubborn. But he has a good heart, and I love how Avery brings his best qualities to the forefront. His journey through this story was inspirational, and it was a pleasure to travel with him toward restoration.
Hoping for Hawthorne is a great introductory novella and did a great job introducing the reader to the Bloom family and their rustic farm life. Despite the shorter length, this story was perfectly paced and never felt rushed. But--warning--it will leave you wanting more!
Any fan of contemporary Christian fiction or sweet/clean romance will enjoy this book.
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed learning about the Bloom family farm so much that I would love to visit! It was exciting to see how the Bloom sisters had taken charge of certain aspects of the farm, and as a result, made the business more modern and trendy. The rustic feel definitely gave the story--and the Bloom family--an extra ounce of charm.
Avery, although NOT a Bloom family member, is probably my favorite. I loved her confidence from the very beginning, and her willingness to be open and honest with everyone--whether it was going to be a pleasant experience or not!
Hawthorne (who has THE BEST name, by the way) is a bit lost and a lot stubborn. But he has a good heart, and I love how Avery brings his best qualities to the forefront. His journey through this story was inspirational, and it was a pleasure to travel with him toward restoration.
Hoping for Hawthorne is a great introductory novella and did a great job introducing the reader to the Bloom family and their rustic farm life. Despite the shorter length, this story was perfectly paced and never felt rushed. But--warning--it will leave you wanting more!
Any fan of contemporary Christian fiction or sweet/clean romance will enjoy this book.
I was given a copy of this book by the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are my own.
July 13, 2021
#BookReview : HOPING FOR HAWTHORNE ( #BloomSisters 1) by @taraericsonauthor
Hawthorne is the only male sibling. He has some personal issues that he is struggling with. But he doesn't really share it with anyone. I enjoyed how Avery and Hawthorne met. Well technically not their first meeting but Hawthorne, can't remember Avery. The scene at Saturday brunch is fun too.
I just enjoy reading the closeness of the Bloom family. Faith, love and respect are important to them. They provide a home for others and give a positive impact in their lives. I'm excited to read Daisy's story.
All books in the series can be found in kindle unlimited. All opinions are my own.
March 28, 2020
Wonderful Series
The Bloom Series covers the lives of the Bloom siblings. Each one different yet similar in their values and strong family ties. Their stories make you want to be part of the family.
The Bloom Series covers the lives of the Bloom siblings. Each one different yet similar in their values and strong family ties. Their stories make you want to be part of the family.
March 26, 2020
A sweet, quick read that brings together a strong female and a farmhand who has lost his purpose. The story weaves in relatable background that really allow you to feel for the characters as well as wish for the best for the couple. I always recommend this author when you're feeling a little down or overwhelmed and need a light-hearted, yet purposeful story to read.
December 5, 2022
I really liked this book, but would've liked it to be longer. I really fell in love with Hawthorne and Avery!
December 22, 2020
First off I just want to say that I am not really a romance reader, but after winning this book in a giveaway, I thought I would give it a read.
In my opinion, the character development was good. I was really surprised by the way Hawthorne was acting in the first chapter, though, but since I knew from the synopsis that it was kind of a redemption story, I thought I would stick it out and read it.
This book did not match my courtship standards at all. There were several detailed kisses, a lot of physical contact, and a fair amount of boy/girl alone time. I felt really uncomfortable more than once. This is my main complaint. There was also some drinking, which I wasn't crazy about. At first I thought it was going to make drinking look bad, but that wasn't entirely the way it was. If it hadn't been for these thing, I would have given the book a considerably higher rating.
What I did like:
The setting was really neat. The Bloom family farm was really cool in my opinion. I kinda love everything about family farms, but the wedding venue and bed & breakfast renovation made it even neater. I loved that aspect of the book!
Also, Hawthorne's development was well done. After the initial shock of how much he really needed to change his ways, I found myself rooting for him. And let's just say there was an unexpected twist at the end, that really helped to strengthen the plot.
And I loved 'meeting' the whole Bloom family! They were all fun and unique. (And the girls had pretty amazing names, just saying!)
Since this is a book I, personally, had trouble enjoying, I feel that I can only give it 2 stars. But I think that more mature readers may enjoy this. I would suggest it to 21+ or married readers.
In my opinion, the character development was good. I was really surprised by the way Hawthorne was acting in the first chapter, though, but since I knew from the synopsis that it was kind of a redemption story, I thought I would stick it out and read it.
This book did not match my courtship standards at all. There were several detailed kisses, a lot of physical contact, and a fair amount of boy/girl alone time. I felt really uncomfortable more than once. This is my main complaint. There was also some drinking, which I wasn't crazy about. At first I thought it was going to make drinking look bad, but that wasn't entirely the way it was. If it hadn't been for these thing, I would have given the book a considerably higher rating.
What I did like:
The setting was really neat. The Bloom family farm was really cool in my opinion. I kinda love everything about family farms, but the wedding venue and bed & breakfast renovation made it even neater. I loved that aspect of the book!
Also, Hawthorne's development was well done. After the initial shock of how much he really needed to change his ways, I found myself rooting for him. And let's just say there was an unexpected twist at the end, that really helped to strengthen the plot.
And I loved 'meeting' the whole Bloom family! They were all fun and unique. (And the girls had pretty amazing names, just saying!)
Since this is a book I, personally, had trouble enjoying, I feel that I can only give it 2 stars. But I think that more mature readers may enjoy this. I would suggest it to 21+ or married readers.
May 1, 2020
Love Blooms--4 and a half stars
This was a quick, easy read, and just what I needed during a time of lack of concentration. I admit that former flame/former loves win me over quickly. And I'm not a huge fan of novellas usually, but I so adored these characters and their histories. The Bloom family felt like people you just want to know in real life. So it's exciting to know that the sisters will have a story too and I look forward to reading them. The connection and chemistry between Avery and Hawthorne sizzled. But I loved that the connection was deeper than physical attraction; that the spiritual depth is what continued to push them forward and toward each other. Though I enjoy contemporaries, it's rare I put them on my re-read list, but this makes the grade. I might be hoping to see a little more of these two in Daisy's story too. It was also refreshing not to suffer through drama after drama in a relationship. The relationship progresses nicely without a million little secrets interfering. What a welcome change of pace.
This was a quick, easy read, and just what I needed during a time of lack of concentration. I admit that former flame/former loves win me over quickly. And I'm not a huge fan of novellas usually, but I so adored these characters and their histories. The Bloom family felt like people you just want to know in real life. So it's exciting to know that the sisters will have a story too and I look forward to reading them. The connection and chemistry between Avery and Hawthorne sizzled. But I loved that the connection was deeper than physical attraction; that the spiritual depth is what continued to push them forward and toward each other. Though I enjoy contemporaries, it's rare I put them on my re-read list, but this makes the grade. I might be hoping to see a little more of these two in Daisy's story too. It was also refreshing not to suffer through drama after drama in a relationship. The relationship progresses nicely without a million little secrets interfering. What a welcome change of pace.
June 14, 2025
So this review is special because it's my first audiobook review. Haha! I still say audiobooks are not my thing, but at least I made it through one.
Anyway, "Hoping for Hawthorne" is a sweet story about a son who limped home humbled (but not actually limping). He meets a friend of his sisters' who had a crush on him when they were younger.
She wants a second chance... but can he be the man he needs to be to both win her heart and pull his own on the family farm?
I loved watching Hawthorne grow. I loved watching him overcome (or at least try to overcome) his struggles. I love watching him give up and surrender to God.
I also love his bouquet of office supplies. Anyone want to give my husband a hint? (Joking! Mostly.)
I didn't feel like Avery had as strong a character development. Don't get me wrong, she was a solid character, but it didn't feel like she had as much to overcome, so she didn't grow as much.
Overall, though, a fun, sweet story that shows God's redemption. I recommend!
Anyway, "Hoping for Hawthorne" is a sweet story about a son who limped home humbled (but not actually limping). He meets a friend of his sisters' who had a crush on him when they were younger.
She wants a second chance... but can he be the man he needs to be to both win her heart and pull his own on the family farm?
I loved watching Hawthorne grow. I loved watching him overcome (or at least try to overcome) his struggles. I love watching him give up and surrender to God.
I also love his bouquet of office supplies. Anyone want to give my husband a hint? (Joking! Mostly.)
I didn't feel like Avery had as strong a character development. Don't get me wrong, she was a solid character, but it didn't feel like she had as much to overcome, so she didn't grow as much.
Overall, though, a fun, sweet story that shows God's redemption. I recommend!
September 13, 2025
This charming, clean, contemporary Christian book is about the Bloom family who consist of Kenneth and Laura Bloom and their seven children (one son and six daughters). This story starts with their son, Hawthorne.
This is a best friend's older brother trope. Avery, a chemical engineer and university lecturer returns to the area she lived in as a child and she runs into her childhood crush, Hawthorne in an unpleasant and embarrassing meet up. But after apologies are given, they find their attraction and liking of one another is unavoidable.
Hawthorne has been hiding on his family farm after a business failure and he still struggles with insecurity about being relied upon by others, as he fears letting others down. However, with Avery's return and expectations, he starts to turn over a new leaf, grow in his faith and start manning up to more responsibilities.
Both characters were likeable and believable and this was a well narrated and heartwarming story. I listened to the audiobook which was well presented by Lorana Hoopes. A delightful story.
This is a best friend's older brother trope. Avery, a chemical engineer and university lecturer returns to the area she lived in as a child and she runs into her childhood crush, Hawthorne in an unpleasant and embarrassing meet up. But after apologies are given, they find their attraction and liking of one another is unavoidable.
Hawthorne has been hiding on his family farm after a business failure and he still struggles with insecurity about being relied upon by others, as he fears letting others down. However, with Avery's return and expectations, he starts to turn over a new leaf, grow in his faith and start manning up to more responsibilities.
Both characters were likeable and believable and this was a well narrated and heartwarming story. I listened to the audiobook which was well presented by Lorana Hoopes. A delightful story.
June 21, 2020
Tara Grace Ericson is a new to me author. Hoping for Hawthorne is a fun and cute novella and the first in the Bloom family series. I liked the fact that readers are introduced to all the Bloom siblings who will be featured in later stories. Being an only child myself, I enjoy reading stories about big families.
This story centers around the only son in the Bloom family, Hawthorne, and Avery, a friend of his sisters, who has moved back to town. Avery has always had a crush on Hawthorne, but Hawthorne never saw her as anything more than a friend of his little sisters. Until now that is. I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop while Hawthorne becomes the man Avery needs and he learns how to depend on her. Sidenote, Hawthorne’s romantic gestures made the teacher in me squeal with delight!
Lovers of contemporary romance will want to give this series a try. Looking forward to reading A Date with Daisy next.
This story centers around the only son in the Bloom family, Hawthorne, and Avery, a friend of his sisters, who has moved back to town. Avery has always had a crush on Hawthorne, but Hawthorne never saw her as anything more than a friend of his little sisters. Until now that is. I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop while Hawthorne becomes the man Avery needs and he learns how to depend on her. Sidenote, Hawthorne’s romantic gestures made the teacher in me squeal with delight!
Lovers of contemporary romance will want to give this series a try. Looking forward to reading A Date with Daisy next.
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