Rediscovering Love and New Beginnings: ‘Must Love Flowers’ by Debbie Macomber – Book Review

“Must Love Flowers” follows the journey of two women at varying life stages who forge a deep friendship while rebuilding their lives after enduring challenging circumstances.

From The Publisher:

Joan Sample is not living the life she thought she would. Now a widow and an empty nester, Joan is content being something of a recluse. But after another birthday spent alone, she is finally inclined to listen to her sister, who has been begging Joan to get back out into the world. With her encouragement, Joan makes big strides, taking care of her overgrown lawn, making new friends through a grief support group, and even renting out a room to a local college student. Before long Joan is finally starting to feel like herself again.

Across town, Maggie Herbert works mornings as a barista, tending to rushed and annoyed customers before taking afternoon classes to become a nurse practitioner. She’s been living with her alcoholic father, avoiding his temper and struggling to pay the bills. But she begins to envision a new future when she finds a room for rent at a reasonable price, with a landlady who seems nice enough. Only after she moves in does she realize that her least favorite customer happens to be Joan’s son–and she’s just taken his childhood room.

Despite a rocky start, Maggie begins to see a different side to the grumpy customer who was once her nemesis. At the same time, Joan grows closer with the landscaper who’s revitalizing her lawn. And as they confront the trials of life, new love, and family, the two women offer each other the support they had been missing. But will the risks they take be worth it in the end?

My Thoughts:

After devouring over two dozen of Debbie Macomber’s books, her latest novel feels like coming home. She excels at telling stories of women overcoming challenges, and “Must Love Flowers” is a prime example of her heartfelt and inspiring writing.

Joan Sample lost her husband suddenly four years ago. They were not only married but also worked together in his dental practice. With the practice sold and pandemic isolation setting in, Joan’s world became even smaller. Concerns from family nudged her to make a change, triggered by an HOA letter about her yard.

Maggie Herbert, a hardworking nursing student, faced her own struggles. After her mother’s passing, Maggie carried the financial burden as her father spiraled into alcoholism and unemployment. Searching for affordable housing to remove herself from the situation, Maggie found herself moving in with Joan. Their fast friendship brought comfort and encouragement as they navigated new experiences.

Both women ventured into new romances, finding their own version of happiness. Yet, the book’s core message shines through—the importance of moving forward. With endearing characters and an effortless narrative, “Must Love Flowers” is a charming read, perfect for fans of clean Romance and Women’s Fiction.

Other Books I’ve Reviewed Written by Debbie Macomber:

The Best is Yet to Come

It’s Better This Way

A Walk Along The Beach

This book contributed to the following challenges: