Debbie Howells's "It All Started With You" is a poignant and uplifting tale of love, friendship, and the power of second chances. With its relatable protagonist and heartfelt storytelling, this novel is a touching exploration of the twists and turns of life and the courage it takes to pursue one's dreams.

At the heart of the story is Frankie, a young woman grappling with the uncertainties and challenges of adulthood. Struggling with a job she's not passionate about, a boyfriend who won't commit, and a hangover from hell, Frankie finds herself at a crossroads in her life. However, when she meets a beautiful, sad-eyed little boy who is tragically ill, Frankie's perspective begins to shift, setting her on a path of self-discovery and transformation.

What sets "It All Started With You" apart is its authenticity and emotional depth. Frankie is a relatable and endearing protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery is both empowering and inspiring. As she navigates the ups and downs of life, readers will find themselves cheering her on every step of the way. Howells's writing is heartfelt and genuine, capturing the essence of Frankie's struggles and triumphs with sensitivity and grace.

Moreover, "It All Started With You" is a celebration of the human spirit and the resilience of the human heart. Through Frankie's interactions with the people around her, including her supportive friends and the courageous little boy who touches her life, Howells beautifully portrays the power of love, compassion, and hope in the face of adversity.

This is the second work by Debbie Howells that I am reading, and she suprised me both times. Not even once did I expect that this is about the kid.
I was in the assumption that this is a rom-com and I was waiting for some love story to happen. I thought that the 'you' in 'it all started with you' is the love interest. But boy, the truth hit me in the end.
I really loved reading this book and the character development is perfect, I have to say. Would recommend this book to my friends for sure.

A slow burn read which was an emotional rollercoaster. Frankie is a florist specialising in wedding flowers, a down to earth, workaholic whose private life is a mess.
This is a great story of friendship, love and the need to sometimes slow down and smell the roses !
This book covers difficult subjects sensitively, it is well written , and engaging to the reader.
I really loved it and would recommend but have the tissues ready
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and Debbie Howells for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review

"It All Started With You" by Debbie Howells is a heartfelt and uplifting tale that explores the complexities of life, love, and the unexpected turns that shape our destinies. Frankie, the protagonist, takes readers on a poignant journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of unexpected connections.

The narrative begins with Frankie, a dreamer waiting for her life to unfold, surrounded by flowers as she tackles the challenge of arranging her best friend's wedding flowers. The author skillfully captures Frankie's candid voice, making her a relatable and endearing character from the start. As Frankie navigates the hurdles of a hesitant boyfriend, a precarious job, and the aftermath of a hangover, life throws her an unexpected curveball in the form of a new friend and a little boy facing a tragic illness.

Debbie Howells weaves a compelling story that delves into the intricacies of relationships, dreams, and the resilience needed to face life's challenges. The introduction of the beautiful, sad-eyed little boy adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative, transforming it from a romantic comedy into a tale with heart-wrenching moments that tug at the reader's emotions.

Frankie's journey of self-discovery is expertly portrayed, and the author manages to balance the gravity of life's hardships with moments of humor and hope. The character development is commendable, and the supporting cast enhances the richness of the story. The theme of embracing change and taking charge of one's destiny resonates throughout the book, creating a sense of empowerment for both the characters and the reader.

The writing style is engaging, and Howells navigates seamlessly between moments of introspection and the vibrant energy of Frankie's attempts to make her dreams come true. The pacing is well-crafted, allowing the story to unfold naturally, keeping the reader invested in Frankie's journey.

In conclusion, "It All Started With You" is a four-star gem that combines humor, heart, and a touch of melancholy. Debbie Howells delivers a beautifully written narrative that celebrates the strength found in unexpected connections and the courage it takes to embrace life's uncertainties. This novel is a heartwarming reminder that, sometimes, the most transformative journeys begin with embracing oneself.

Frankie initially aspired to achieve fame and fortune but soon faced the reality that it wouldn't be her future. She found herself in an unfulfilling job, with a commitment-phobic boyfriend, and friends who took her for granted. While helping with yet another friend's wedding, Frankie questioned when her turn for happiness would come. This led her to wonder if she had been seeking happiness in the wrong places.

A chance encounter with a new friend made Frankie realize she had wasted much time. She recognized that life is short and decided to stop waiting and start being the change she desired. Despite the challenges, Frankie is determined to conquer the world one step at a time with hope, determination, and spirit.

I found great pleasure in this book; it's a heartwarming reminder of how even the tiniest gestures can brighten someone's day if we're willing to extend a helping hand. It weaves together elements of drama, a touch of romance, and plenty of moments that bring smiles to your face. It beautifully captures life's highs and lows, and when faced with challenges, it encourages the idea of turning lemons into lemonade (or adding some gin for good measure).

Loved the writing style a characters of this book! Highly recommend to anyone wanting to enter the rom com world

I just couldn’t with this book. While the author has published over 10 books, this was the first book she wrote and it definitely reads like it. Originally published under the title Wildflowers in 2013, Boldwood Books took it upon themselves to republish it under this title this past June.
Frankie Valentine sort of fell into the florist business, but she’s taken it to it beautifully and has created quite the wedding business. Dealing with stressed out brides, overbearing mothers, and even a disgruntled ex-boyfriend, she’s making her business work for her. Along the way she gives up alcohol, starts training for a half marathon, and meets a mother of a terminally ill child. Doing her best to give all aspects of her life her all, she finds happiness in places she never expected.
There is so much going on in this book that it’s too much, but at the same time everything feels superficial. There is no depth to the story or any of the characters.
While I appreciate being the first this republishing was exciting for Ms. Howells, I wish she had taken the time to edit it again and flush it out to turn it into something more meaningful.

Debbie Howells’ It All Started with You is a brilliant book that will break your heart, repair it and leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

Frankie used to think that she would conquer the world. However, before long she had had to face facts and realise that fame and fortune were not going to be in her future. She has a boyfriend who is allergic to commitment, a job that is going nowhere and friends who take her for granted. As finds herself doing the flowers for yet another of her friends’ weddings, Frankie wonders when is it all going to happen for her. But has Frankie been looking for happiness in the wrong direction all along?

When a chance encounter brings her into contact with a new friend, Frankie realises that she has wasted so much time. Having spent a lifetime squandering her talents and her time on people who didn’t deserve her, Frankie realises that life is short and that if she wants to be happy she needs to stop waiting around and start being the change she wants to be. Frankie has quite a challenge on her hands, but with hope, determination and plenty of spirit she knows she can conquer the world one step at a time.

It All Started With You is a top-notch read full of heart and hope with a wonderful heroine you just have to root for. A terrific tale about finding happiness, grabbing life by the horns and taking a chance on yourself, Debbie Howells’ It All Started With You is an enjoyable and invigorating novel you are going to love.

A beautiful emotional book with a flower shop and an endearing little boy.

I liked the romance and learning a out flowers and what being a florist would be like.

I loved the sense of community and friendship bonds and helping out they did.

Frankie s growth was great.

This is not a light hearted romance but was a great compelling read.


I was in tears a few tomes.
Just a great book from a now favorite author.

I laughed at the bridezilla parts.

Many thanks not the author and publisher and Net Galley

4 stars

Oh what a lovely surprise this book!!! First time for me to read a book by Debbie Howells and I loved it! Me who is a flower lover, I was in heaven reading this book that takes place partly in a flower shop!!!! If you love flower and romance, you will totally fall in love with this book, I promise!!! This book was so well written and very entertaining! i couldn't put it down!!!

This was such a lovely read. It was so easy to get through and I really found myself getting lost in the story. I really liked the characters and seeing all their relationships develop, I would have liked a little more of this shown in the beginning but it was still very good.

It's a very emotional read and discusses some really big important topics. It definitely pulls on the heart strings.

I liked all the flower details thrown in and all the funny interactions throughout! The banter kept you invested in the story. My first book by this author and I've gotta say it was a very enjoyable read!

A poignant and relatable story that takes readers on Frankie's journey of self-discovery and transformation. With dreams of success and love, she finds herself at a crossroads, surrounded by the challenges of life and her best friend's wedding flowers. This book beautifully portrays the unpredictability of life and the unexpected friendships that can change everything. Frankie's determination to make her dreams come true, despite the curveballs life throws at her, is an inspiring reminder that it's never too late to pursue your passions and embrace change. A touching and uplifting read that encourages us all to take charge of our own destinies.

I was completely moved by the book, and it's hard to put into words just how much it resonated with me. The author managed to capture the essence of the characters' lives, particularly in the face of their challenging circumstances. The emotions they experienced were so palpable, it was as if I could feel their confusion and struggles as if they were my own.

What struck me most was the theme of helping others and allowing oneself to receive help in return. The way the characters supported each other showcased the beauty of human connection. It reminded me of the times when I've extended a helping hand to others and how fulfilling that can be. But it also made me reflect on how we sometimes fail to see the kindness and support right in front of us, until it's highlighted in a story like this.

The personal growth of the characters throughout the book was truly heartwarming and tender. Witnessing their journey of self-discovery and watching them navigate their challenges together was incredibly moving. The moments of drama were intense, and the love that blossomed was so genuine, it felt like I was a part of their world.

Interestingly, the book also prompted me to reflect on my own well-being. The protagonist's running journey made me realize how invigorating it can be to take care of our bodies. It's a simple act of self-care that I've been neglecting, and the book reminded me to start running again, just like the character.

In the end, the book left me with a profound sense of warmth and connection. It's a journey that I won't soon forget. The story's ability to touch my heart and mirror my own experiences is a testament to its power and authenticity. It's not just a book; it's an emotional journey that has left a lasting impact on me.

Well I went into this one thinking it would be a light hearted romantic read and it seemed that way to start with, but then turned into something so much more that left me in tears at one point. A brilliant read.

This book centers around Frankie, a woman who thought she would have life a little more together than she currently does. She owns a florist shop and is tired of waiting for everything to click into place. She wants to work with celebrity clients and she wants to find love. Trying to deal with her best friend's flowers for her wedding, life throws Frankie a curveball when she meets someone new.

This is a slow-burn book. IA good read when you are between books, but would not have been a must-read in my opinion.

This is a slow burn book, but it works because as a good women's fiction it's a journey of self discovery and self love and everything that often comes with Women's fiction (not a bad thing) but this book specially has a female character i connected with almost immediately and i loved it.

A light hearted read to have whilst sipping cocktails by the pool. Easy to get into and a page turner to the end.

Oh to be a florist
Frankie accidentally discovered she had a talent for floristry when she was roped in to do her best friends wedding flowers.
As she is trying to get her business noticed she lands a celebrity contract. As things progress and the work load is growing a chance meeting with a s stranger who becomes a friend makes her realise there are much more important things to life
An enjoyable read

A light summer romance to take with you to the beach, no real unexpected twists, likeable characters and a reliable read

Well, here we go again, with me feeling every emotion under the sun!
The author always pulls it out of the bag when it comes to character driven emotive reads.

I loved that this gives us romance, friendships, community spirit and people supporting each other through the tough times.

I also now want to work in Frankie’s shop, despite not having a single creative bone in my body!

Add to your TBR now!