THE ART OF ARRANGING FLOWERS - past reviews

5 out of 5 Stars - "Strongly Recommend!!!"

I would give this beautiful story a sixth star if I could!

Lynne Branard's novel houses a plethora of wonderful characters, each one lovable as much for their flaws as for their strengths. The sensitivities afforded the extended community members of the small town of Creekside, Washington warmed my heart throughout the book. I fell in love with Ruby's special efforts to help heal, mend, and encourage those around her. Her lifetime dedication to opening the hearts of her contemporaries while protecting her own with a crown of thorns, or rather porcupine quills, endeared her to me even more. She was so real throughout the novel that I felt myself wishing I had a sister just like Ruby.

In addition to the likeable characters, I was drawn into the horticultural heaven described throughout The Art of Arranging Flowers. I was enthralled, entertained, and educated by all of the benefits pertaining to each of the blooms and grasses used throughout the lovely story. I have gained new appreciation for the lush, living, growing, and yes, dying flora that surrounds us each and every day. It brings to mind not only the seasons of blooms, but the seasons of life. Some of us, like roses, are the rosebuds that don't open, we die too soon. Others of us are like the proud carnation, whose bloom seems to last forever, and we live long, full lives.

The lovely way that Ms. Branard uses her obviously vast knowledge and nature, science, and physics to illustrate her novel, I think, can be appreciated by all. I hope that you will enjoy this writer's first novel as much as I.