The Language Of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh – 322 pages
Book Blurb:
The Victorian language of flowers was used to convey romantic expressions: honeysuckle for devotion, asters for patience, and red roses for love. But for Victoria Jones, it’s been more useful in communicating grief, mistrust, and solitude. After a childhood spent in the foster-care system, she is unable to get close to anybody, and her only connection to the world is through flowers and their meanings
Now eighteen and emancipated from the system, Victoria has nowhere to go and sleeps in a public park, where she plants a small garden of her own. Soon a local florist discovers her talents, and Victoria realizes she has a gift for helping others through the flowers she chooses for them. But a mysterious vendor at the flower market has her questioning what’s been missing in her life, and when she’s forced to confront a painful secret from her past, she must decide whether it’s worth risking everything for a second chance at happiness.
Now eighteen and emancipated from the system, Victoria has nowhere to go and sleeps in a public park, where she plants a small garden of her own. Soon a local florist discovers her talents, and Victoria realizes she has a gift for helping others through the flowers she chooses for them. But a mysterious vendor at the flower market has her questioning what’s been missing in her life, and when she’s forced to confront a painful secret from her past, she must decide whether it’s worth risking everything for a second chance at happiness.
My Review: 5 stars
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How wonderful to read a book unlike any other. I learned so much about the language of flowers from the Victorian era. Who knew that flowers spoke so loudly? Expressing everything from jealousy to devotion to passion to hate. It’s incredible. I am happy to report that I liked and was rooting for Victoria, the protagonist, and her growth throughout the book. I was warned from some bookish friends that she was unlikable. The foster system is it’s own silent character and of course it’s flaws are expressed throughout the story. The characters were simple and honest and led me quietly into their world.
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this book and then meet the author at a local book store book signing. The author is a baby, only 33 years old! It was evident she’s determined to better the foster system as she herself has two foster children in addition to her own two biological kids. If this book is an indication of what’s coming next from her we’re in luck.
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of this book and then meet the author at a local book store book signing. The author is a baby, only 33 years old! It was evident she’s determined to better the foster system as she herself has two foster children in addition to her own two biological kids. If this book is an indication of what’s coming next from her we’re in luck.
Quotes I liked:
Over time, we would learn each other and I would learn to love her like a mother loves a daughter, imperfectly and without roots.”
-“Perhaps the unattached, the unwanted, the unloved, could grow to give love as lushly as anyone else.”
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Upon your recommendation I read this book, and have since lent (yes, I still like books instead of kindle) it to many friends. Everyone who has read it, including myself, have loved story. Vanessa Diffenbaugh is brilliant.
Marilyn B.
I just read this book. I don’t know how I could have missed it when it was published. Just gave it to my daughter to read. I am sure she will love it.
Loved your review!!!
SusanMarie F