Most of us have ventured into a florist shop at some point in our lives. It may have been for a wedding, a prom, to visit a sick loved one, or even for a funeral. We enter with something special in mind and hope the floral designers can magically bring that vision to life-much like two floral designers like Jackie and Nicole.
Book FALLING is a fictional story set in Annapolis, Maryland, about two young women who form a deep friendship in middle and high school and later decide to open a floral shop together. Nicole began experiencing seizures in middle school, which could not be controlled with medication. Jackie, her best friend, became her support person through those difficult years. Nicole's father left when she was fifteen, then at twenty-two, her mother passed away from pancreatic cancer leaving Nicole to care for her alone in her final days.
Through all of this, Jackie remained by Nicole's side. Their bond deepened over time, eventually leading them to open their floral business. Their store becomes a place of healing not just for them but for the customers they serve. Many touching moments occur with customers, highlighting the kindness and understanding of the people around them. Despite the success of the shop, Nicole struggles with relationships, often abandoned or misunderstood because of her seizure condition. That begins to change when she meets Patrick, a gentle soul with great character and patience.
Patrick carries deep guilt over the tragic loss of his wife and daughter, which has kept him from opening up to anyone new. However, at Jackie's wedding when he witnesses Nicole having a seizure while they are dancing, he knows he must step in. His genuine care and growing love for Nicole give her the courage to continue forward. Jackie encourages Nicole as well through her lifelong journey. Meanwhile, Patrick begins to find his own path as he lets go of his tragic grief and trauma, slowly opening his heart again.
Just as Nicole starts her journey toward healing, her estranged father returns with secrets that shock her world and challenge her progress. These revelations test Nicole's strength, love, and determination, forcing her to face hard choices that will impact her future, familial confrontations, and the need for closure.
FALLING is a story of friendship, loss, emotional restoration, and the courage it takes to begin again. It's the driving forces of love and faith that help Nicole and Patrick strengthen not only their bond but also discover what it truly means to fall-for each other and for life again.
