Reviews

In Bloom by Kat Jackson

micaleighmegan's review

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reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

sapphic_lit_atl's review

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4.0

In Bloom by Kat Jackson is an incredibly deep and poignant study on love, loss, and healing. The characters, Nicole Callahan and Avery Pullman, are beautifully crafted with depth and authenticity -- you can't help but hurt deeply for the pain these two women are going through. Jackson's superb writing skillfully navigates through the complexities of the women's lives and slow burn birth of a deep connection.

Jackson weaves a story that is emotionally thoughtful and mature. The pacing, though deliberately slow, is expertly handled, drawing readers into the intricate web of emotions and experiences that shape Nicole and Avery's journey.

One of the strengths of the book lies in its portrayal of realistic and relatable situations. From dealing with the grief of an actual loss, to dealing with the grief of a lost relationship, the book explores the challenges of letting go. The humor and lightness woven into these moments add a refreshing touch, making the heavy themes more digestible.

Houston, the dog, adds an extra layer of warmth and charm to the narrative. The comedic moments at the mortuary provide a unique and realistic touch, showcasing the author's ability to infuse humor into even the most challenging situations.

In Bloom is a perfect book for anyone who appreciates a well-written, medium-stakes sapphic love story.

Thank you NetGalley, Kat Jackson, and Bella Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

misha_ali's review

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dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Kat Jackson is rapidly becoming one of my favorites based off her romances being intensely character-driven and about the deeply human problems that well-rounded characters experience.

In this one, we have two women who are incredibly damaged from their past trauma and slowly healing from different kinds of relationship issues in the past. The pace is slow and steady, by which I mean they meet and develop an attachment and romantic feelings at a very realistic and mature pace, as befits someone who has been deeply hurt by the past and is looking to cautiously move on while still honouring the heaviness of the past.

I have to say that being a part-time eulogy writer is one of the more interesting careers I've encountered in a romance and I loved the idea of someone being so close to death and kind of finding comfort in helping others honour the people they have lost and get through a difficult time.

If you enjoy rich character work and them slowly evolving as realistic humans would, this is the book for you.
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