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Chose the Wrong Guy, Gave Him the Wrong Finger
"Smart, funny, and unapologetically romantic." ― Publisher's Weekly (starred review)
Ten years ago, Quinn Barton was on her way to the altar to marry Burke Morrison, her high school sweetheart, when something derailed her. Rather, someone derailed her―the Best Man, who at the last minute--and with shocking revelations--begged her to reconsider the marriage. Quinn, stunned, hurt, and confused, struggled between ignoring what she was told―or running away.
She chose running. With the Best Man. Who happened to be Burke's brother, Frank.
That relationship didn't work either. How could it, when Quinn had been engaged to, in love with, Frank's brother? Quinn opted for neither, and instead, spent the next seventeen years working in her Middleburg, Virginia, bridal shop, Talk of the Gown.
But when the two brothers return to town for another wedding, old anger, hurt, and passion resurface. Just because you've traded the bad guy for the good guy for no guy doesn't mean you have to stay away from love for the rest of your life, does it? Told with Beth Harbison's flair for humor and heart, Chose the Wrong Guy, Gave Him the Wrong Finger will keep you guessing and make you believe in the possibilities of love.
"Funny and charming, and perfect for a lazy day in the hammock or at the beach." ― New York Journal of Books
Ten years ago, Quinn Barton was on her way to the altar to marry Burke Morrison, her high school sweetheart, when something derailed her. Rather, someone derailed her―the Best Man, who at the last minute--and with shocking revelations--begged her to reconsider the marriage. Quinn, stunned, hurt, and confused, struggled between ignoring what she was told―or running away.
She chose running. With the Best Man. Who happened to be Burke's brother, Frank.
That relationship didn't work either. How could it, when Quinn had been engaged to, in love with, Frank's brother? Quinn opted for neither, and instead, spent the next seventeen years working in her Middleburg, Virginia, bridal shop, Talk of the Gown.
But when the two brothers return to town for another wedding, old anger, hurt, and passion resurface. Just because you've traded the bad guy for the good guy for no guy doesn't mean you have to stay away from love for the rest of your life, does it? Told with Beth Harbison's flair for humor and heart, Chose the Wrong Guy, Gave Him the Wrong Finger will keep you guessing and make you believe in the possibilities of love.
"Funny and charming, and perfect for a lazy day in the hammock or at the beach." ― New York Journal of Books
384 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2013
127 people are currently reading
5342 people want to read
About the author
Beth Harbison
25 books1,698 followersBeth Harbison grew up in Potomac, Maryland, in the shadow of Washington, D.C. Apart from the occasional irritation at being held up in traffic by a presidential motorcade, she has remained fairly uninvolved in the politics that define her home town. Her latest book is CONFESSIONS OF THE OTHER SISTER, William Morrow 10/11/22
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 829 reviews
October 4, 2013
There are serious spoilers here so you've been warned.
I have to begin with a major read bump.
P. 125: ". . . threw on a sundress . . ."
Later same evening at the event for which she put on the sundress
P. 155: " the waistband of my jeans."
This might appear nitpicky but there is a big difference between going commando in a dress and going commando in jeans. She left home wearing a sundress that became jeans. Proofread, authors.
I was sold by the title of this book, sounded like fun, haven't read this author previously and thought I'd give it a try.
My thoughts are it is a quite a bit mopey for chick-lit, but too light for a serious novel. Not sure where that leaves it. The middle sags quite a bit while Quinn just thinks and thinks and thinks and thinks and thinks about Burke, how sad she is, how miserable her life is, how she is unable to move on.
Then there are flashbacks: the day she met Burke, the first time she went to his family farm, one time when Frank was nice to her. These added nothing.
The tasks Glenn assigned her were sometimes a little amusing. They, at least, served a purpose, but also felt just a bit like filler, some more than others.
The Dottie's wedding plot felt like nothing so much as a plot device, not something about which I was supposed to care.
I think my biggest problem is the ending simply didn't ring true. I cannot believe in an ending that supposes that sex, even spiritual(I didn't actually buy into this connection) mind-blowing sex makes everything okay. Really?
What about all the reasons Frank isn't right for her? What about the fact that her past with Burke will always be there between them? What about the fact that she has never given two hoots about Frank? But, then she suddenly does.
I'm sorry, but you cannot craft the entirety of a book on how perfect Burke is, how losing/leaving him ruined her life, how he knows her like no one else ever will, how she thinks of him every day and mourns that she will never have him again and then, throw that all aside.
It. Does. Not Work.
I felt all of her emotions about Burke; they felt honest and raw. I didn't feel them for Frank. I felt like Frank was just there on the sidelines, waiting, that the author forgot she needed to build that relationship. He didn't do anything to fight for her. And he lied to her, as much as Burke did, or possibly worse because Burke's were lies of omission while Frank's where flat-out self-serving untruths.
Is cheating okay? No.
Is lying to get what you want, the result that you want, okay? No.
But here again, we have a story that could have been fixed with one conversation. One.
Quinn is a major over-reactor, a character trait that I don't particularly find admirable or enjoyable to read about unless it is very carefully crafted. This isn't.
I'd have preferred to have Quinn finally realize there are more decent, attractive men in the world that these two guys with their huge trunks full of emotional baggage.
What happened to the idea that holidays and birthdays and family get-togethers would be too rough for all of them? What happened to how uncomfortable they would all be together? What happened to all of that? Knocked on its behind by one fabulous orgasm? Sorry, I just don't buy it.
Although, wait a minute. Quinn over-reacts to everything so yes, she would react just exactly that way. One hot sex romp would obviously make her wrongly believe she is now in love with Frank.
I get it. I just don't like it.
*edit* The more I've thought about this one, I have decided it is only a two on my scale. Sorry to be changing it.
I have to begin with a major read bump.
P. 125: ". . . threw on a sundress . . ."
Later same evening at the event for which she put on the sundress
P. 155: " the waistband of my jeans."
This might appear nitpicky but there is a big difference between going commando in a dress and going commando in jeans. She left home wearing a sundress that became jeans. Proofread, authors.
I was sold by the title of this book, sounded like fun, haven't read this author previously and thought I'd give it a try.
My thoughts are it is a quite a bit mopey for chick-lit, but too light for a serious novel. Not sure where that leaves it. The middle sags quite a bit while Quinn just thinks and thinks and thinks and thinks and thinks about Burke, how sad she is, how miserable her life is, how she is unable to move on.
Then there are flashbacks: the day she met Burke, the first time she went to his family farm, one time when Frank was nice to her. These added nothing.
The tasks Glenn assigned her were sometimes a little amusing. They, at least, served a purpose, but also felt just a bit like filler, some more than others.
The Dottie's wedding plot felt like nothing so much as a plot device, not something about which I was supposed to care.
I think my biggest problem is the ending simply didn't ring true. I cannot believe in an ending that supposes that sex, even spiritual(I didn't actually buy into this connection) mind-blowing sex makes everything okay. Really?
What about all the reasons Frank isn't right for her? What about the fact that her past with Burke will always be there between them? What about the fact that she has never given two hoots about Frank? But, then she suddenly does.
I'm sorry, but you cannot craft the entirety of a book on how perfect Burke is, how losing/leaving him ruined her life, how he knows her like no one else ever will, how she thinks of him every day and mourns that she will never have him again and then, throw that all aside.
It. Does. Not Work.
I felt all of her emotions about Burke; they felt honest and raw. I didn't feel them for Frank. I felt like Frank was just there on the sidelines, waiting, that the author forgot she needed to build that relationship. He didn't do anything to fight for her. And he lied to her, as much as Burke did, or possibly worse because Burke's were lies of omission while Frank's where flat-out self-serving untruths.
Is cheating okay? No.
Is lying to get what you want, the result that you want, okay? No.
But here again, we have a story that could have been fixed with one conversation. One.
Quinn is a major over-reactor, a character trait that I don't particularly find admirable or enjoyable to read about unless it is very carefully crafted. This isn't.
I'd have preferred to have Quinn finally realize there are more decent, attractive men in the world that these two guys with their huge trunks full of emotional baggage.
What happened to the idea that holidays and birthdays and family get-togethers would be too rough for all of them? What happened to how uncomfortable they would all be together? What happened to all of that? Knocked on its behind by one fabulous orgasm? Sorry, I just don't buy it.
Although, wait a minute. Quinn over-reacts to everything so yes, she would react just exactly that way. One hot sex romp would obviously make her wrongly believe she is now in love with Frank.
I get it. I just don't like it.
*edit* The more I've thought about this one, I have decided it is only a two on my scale. Sorry to be changing it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2013
First of all, how can you read this title and not want to read this book? I fell in love with the title so much that the book almost didn't matter. Okay, not really, but still...you have to admit, it is pretty great.
So begins my review:
Sheesh! Don't read this book if you have anything else you want to accomplish that day. This is one of those laugh out loud, carry-the-book-everywhere-with-you-even-into-the-bathroom kind of books. If I hadn't been reading the digital edition it might have even had a bath with me. Couldn't put it down!
Once I started reading this book it captured my attention completely. The writing is modern and a times a bit risque (there are a few F-bombs but they are rather funny.) I fell in love with the main character on the first page. I did, really. She is about to get married when all Hell breaks loose and she must make a decision that will forever haunt her. It must have been tough and I think I could identify with her indecision, even if I hadn't lived through quite the same situation.
This novel is just an overall joy to read. The romance is paced perfectly. You never know exactly what to expect and the tension is just right. There is a feeling of comfort in these pages, like you have settled into your favorite pair of jeans and cuddled up in your most comfortable chair.
I loved that the main characters had such a long and developed history between them. This made the story feel somehow more logical and gave me another reason to care about what happened between them. The variety of choices the main character had on who she would choose and where she would end up kept the plot interesting and unexpected.
I didn't really see the ending coming, and I liked that I had to guess even at the last couple of chapters. Well played author.
If you are looking for a perfect book for a lazy Saturday afternoon and want to laugh, smile and just have a lot of fun, this book would be a great choice. I have found another author that I must add to my list of favourites.
This book review is based on a Digital ARC from the publisher.
So begins my review:
Sheesh! Don't read this book if you have anything else you want to accomplish that day. This is one of those laugh out loud, carry-the-book-everywhere-with-you-even-into-the-bathroom kind of books. If I hadn't been reading the digital edition it might have even had a bath with me. Couldn't put it down!
Once I started reading this book it captured my attention completely. The writing is modern and a times a bit risque (there are a few F-bombs but they are rather funny.) I fell in love with the main character on the first page. I did, really. She is about to get married when all Hell breaks loose and she must make a decision that will forever haunt her. It must have been tough and I think I could identify with her indecision, even if I hadn't lived through quite the same situation.
This novel is just an overall joy to read. The romance is paced perfectly. You never know exactly what to expect and the tension is just right. There is a feeling of comfort in these pages, like you have settled into your favorite pair of jeans and cuddled up in your most comfortable chair.
I loved that the main characters had such a long and developed history between them. This made the story feel somehow more logical and gave me another reason to care about what happened between them. The variety of choices the main character had on who she would choose and where she would end up kept the plot interesting and unexpected.
I didn't really see the ending coming, and I liked that I had to guess even at the last couple of chapters. Well played author.
If you are looking for a perfect book for a lazy Saturday afternoon and want to laugh, smile and just have a lot of fun, this book would be a great choice. I have found another author that I must add to my list of favourites.
This book review is based on a Digital ARC from the publisher.
June 5, 2013
I wish this book were as good as its title. I received this as an ARC and it took me about 2 weeks to get through, which is pretty long for me. I'm not a big fan of the writing style. I felt there were too many breaks between dialogue when Quinn would go off on an internal monologue and then the next line of conversation would be said and I had already forgotten what the conversation was about in the first place. The middle of the book dragged on while Quinn was endlessly wallowing in the past and her love for Burke. I really didn't develop a strong attachment to Quinn, since she seemed very weak by still being hung up on a guy 10 years after she found out he'd cheated on her. The best parts of the book were the brides that Quinn was helping and the tasks Glenn gave her. Overall, this book wasn't a complete waste of time, but I'm glad I didn't pay for it.
July 21, 2013
Well I finished it. For all the dithering and analyzing and remonstrating on behalf of our neurotic under confident, dimensionless, heroine, the book's ending was ridiculously abrupt. No one in this book was likable, except I suppose, the eccentric grandmother. Maybe the cliched gay best friend annoyed me the most. Why does this character not deserve any uniqueness or realism? His only purpose in the book was to be an uncomplicated shoulder to cry on, a wacky alter ego to help the heroine out of her hopelessly tired persona and routine, and to provide high class snacks at opportune times (and personally, cheese doesn't do it for me).
Read
April 2, 2023This is a book club pick NOT chosen by me or due to any good review. This book is terrible. It's all over the place. The train-of-thought narration is just the tip of the iceberg.
I can't imagine the main character Quinn at all, nor do I really know anything about her. What makes her so special that these two town-heartthrob brothers are fighting over her? Speaking of the hunky brothers, what makes them so desirable besides the *chemistry* and *sexual tension* she seems to have with them? She left one at the alter based on hearsay from the other, yet continues to pine over the first one for the next decade? She honestly never moved on from this dude, and nothing really happened for ten years until he comes back into town and then she obsesses night and day over him? She's "confused" and has "a decision" to make? What decision, exactly?
Also, how does Quinn live in the same town she grew up in, yet we never have hardly any mention (let alone scenes with) her parents? Her mom appears once, mere pages from the end of the book. She has a bizarre attachment to her ex-fiance's family farm (cause that's totally normal). As in "No! They can't sell the farm! It's sooo special!" Uh, right. And what ever happened to her best girlfriends from high school? Because her life now seems to revolve around exactly one gay best friend who she went to high school with (but didn't know well then...why include that detail?). Quinn owns a bridal boutique where she sells gowns of her own design and creation, for cheap. Is this really a thing that exists? If so, I wish I'd known about it before my wedding! She seems to be pretty busy, but is maybe going to one day be put out of business by the dry-cleaner across the street. She also seems to have disdain for all her brides, I guess due to the fact that she ran away from her wedding, Mrs-Robinson-style.
Also annoying are the weirdly specific-but-random-as-hell scenes like: the time she smokes pot at a high school party (just once!) and it might have been laced with something; the time she and ex-fiance run into his grandma's new fiance shopping for a watch (but a cheap one! Because he is trying to prove that he's NOT a gold-digger!); the time she meets the girl with the locker next to hers on her first day of high school...and we never see this chick again; the time she and gay bff stalked ex-fiance by sitting outside his house in a car for hours- but, hey, they brought snacks; the time she tried speed dating...lord, don't even get me started on this weird 30-day challenge of randomness created by gay bff.
Sorry for the randomness of this review, but if you made it to the end- hey!- maybe you can make it to the end of this book!
I can't imagine the main character Quinn at all, nor do I really know anything about her. What makes her so special that these two town-heartthrob brothers are fighting over her? Speaking of the hunky brothers, what makes them so desirable besides the *chemistry* and *sexual tension* she seems to have with them? She left one at the alter based on hearsay from the other, yet continues to pine over the first one for the next decade? She honestly never moved on from this dude, and nothing really happened for ten years until he comes back into town and then she obsesses night and day over him? She's "confused" and has "a decision" to make? What decision, exactly?
Also, how does Quinn live in the same town she grew up in, yet we never have hardly any mention (let alone scenes with) her parents? Her mom appears once, mere pages from the end of the book. She has a bizarre attachment to her ex-fiance's family farm (cause that's totally normal). As in "No! They can't sell the farm! It's sooo special!" Uh, right. And what ever happened to her best girlfriends from high school? Because her life now seems to revolve around exactly one gay best friend who she went to high school with (but didn't know well then...why include that detail?). Quinn owns a bridal boutique where she sells gowns of her own design and creation, for cheap. Is this really a thing that exists? If so, I wish I'd known about it before my wedding! She seems to be pretty busy, but is maybe going to one day be put out of business by the dry-cleaner across the street. She also seems to have disdain for all her brides, I guess due to the fact that she ran away from her wedding, Mrs-Robinson-style.
Also annoying are the weirdly specific-but-random-as-hell scenes like: the time she smokes pot at a high school party (just once!) and it might have been laced with something; the time she and ex-fiance run into his grandma's new fiance shopping for a watch (but a cheap one! Because he is trying to prove that he's NOT a gold-digger!); the time she meets the girl with the locker next to hers on her first day of high school...and we never see this chick again; the time she and gay bff stalked ex-fiance by sitting outside his house in a car for hours- but, hey, they brought snacks; the time she tried speed dating...lord, don't even get me started on this weird 30-day challenge of randomness created by gay bff.
Sorry for the randomness of this review, but if you made it to the end- hey!- maybe you can make it to the end of this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2013
This review and all others (including contests too!) are posted on my blog Slave to Books
Arc from NETGALLEY
So, I love chick lit. I’m not going to lie about that. It is my favorite “no think” read. So, when I found a book with this title needless to say…I was freaking excited. But, that did dwindle quickly.
The beginning was written in third person and then shifted to first. I was annoyed with that. It also appeared as if the writer was not at all comfortable writing in third person. I say this because the prologue was excruciatingly choppy. I had to read passages (in just the prologue alone) two to three times to figure out what the heck just happened. Not cool. Not cool at all.
But, passed the prologue. “Meh.” The background of her relationship with chapters based entirely in her memories…completely and utterly unnecessary. To the point where I was like omg.. shut up and stop with the past. The character’s entire problem is she is obsessed with the past. Also, she has no personality. She basically states that. Glenn…well he was very 1-dimensional, to me. I kind of wanted to go around slapping several cast members.
Everyone was raving about the brides in the book. I actually could of cared less about them. They weren’t important. No, what was important should have been the main character growing a set or developing a backbone. I honestly walked away from the book thinking she really didn’t do either.
I wasn’t happy with it. But based on the reviews I’ve seen…it seems people will love this book or hate it. I’m walking away feeling very “meh” about the entire thing.
Rating: C-
Arc from NETGALLEY
So, I love chick lit. I’m not going to lie about that. It is my favorite “no think” read. So, when I found a book with this title needless to say…I was freaking excited. But, that did dwindle quickly.
The beginning was written in third person and then shifted to first. I was annoyed with that. It also appeared as if the writer was not at all comfortable writing in third person. I say this because the prologue was excruciatingly choppy. I had to read passages (in just the prologue alone) two to three times to figure out what the heck just happened. Not cool. Not cool at all.
But, passed the prologue. “Meh.” The background of her relationship with chapters based entirely in her memories…completely and utterly unnecessary. To the point where I was like omg.. shut up and stop with the past. The character’s entire problem is she is obsessed with the past. Also, she has no personality. She basically states that. Glenn…well he was very 1-dimensional, to me. I kind of wanted to go around slapping several cast members.
Everyone was raving about the brides in the book. I actually could of cared less about them. They weren’t important. No, what was important should have been the main character growing a set or developing a backbone. I honestly walked away from the book thinking she really didn’t do either.
I wasn’t happy with it. But based on the reviews I’ve seen…it seems people will love this book or hate it. I’m walking away feeling very “meh” about the entire thing.
Rating: C-
August 24, 2013
It’s ten years since Quinn Barton left her groom at the altar after his brother, the best man shocked her with tales of her groom’s infidelity she knew nothing about, which ultimately led to her and the brother’s insane revenge fueled affair.
Quinn’s convinced she’s moved on but when ten years later she’s making their grandmother’s wedding gown, she and the brothers reunite for the first time since that fateful, unhappy day and she realizes just how much she’s fooling herself because there are unresolved feelings and ghosts from the pasts that are hard to bury when your eyes are closed. She’ll have to do some serious soul searching to find out which brother if either is or was ever the right one for her.
Harbison’s meditative, heart-wrenching epiphany filled tale is a drama-thon and worth every pulse pounding page. Her plot may be a familiar topic in romance but she takes it to the next step and gives it tons of depth. Her characters are realistic, imperfect souls who’ll capture reader’s hearts and their empathies. Her narrative is flowing and visual, her dialogue is easy to read and a mix of belly laughing humor and angst filled histrionics. I’ve been privy to Ms. Harbison’s antics before and I’m pleased to say that I enjoyed every page of this one.
Check here for my exclusive interview with Beth-
http://thereadingfrenzy.blogspot.com/...
Quinn’s convinced she’s moved on but when ten years later she’s making their grandmother’s wedding gown, she and the brothers reunite for the first time since that fateful, unhappy day and she realizes just how much she’s fooling herself because there are unresolved feelings and ghosts from the pasts that are hard to bury when your eyes are closed. She’ll have to do some serious soul searching to find out which brother if either is or was ever the right one for her.
Harbison’s meditative, heart-wrenching epiphany filled tale is a drama-thon and worth every pulse pounding page. Her plot may be a familiar topic in romance but she takes it to the next step and gives it tons of depth. Her characters are realistic, imperfect souls who’ll capture reader’s hearts and their empathies. Her narrative is flowing and visual, her dialogue is easy to read and a mix of belly laughing humor and angst filled histrionics. I’ve been privy to Ms. Harbison’s antics before and I’m pleased to say that I enjoyed every page of this one.
Check here for my exclusive interview with Beth-
http://thereadingfrenzy.blogspot.com/...
June 22, 2013
Looking for a fun, yet frenzied summer-reading kind of book? Take a look at Chose the Wrong Guy, Gave Him the Wrong Finger by Beth Harbison. Imagine being Quinn, a bride just getting ready to take “The Walk,” the love of your life, Burke, is waiting by the alter. Along comes Frank, Burke’s brother, saying he NEEDS to talk to you, NOW, and suddenly, the world as you know it crumbles at your feet. The wedding is off, and you escape with Frank. Life goes on and ten years later, Quinn is a Bridal Shop owner, making a dress for Frank and Burke’s grandmother. Of course, this brings both men back into town and puts Quinn in a decidedly uncomfortable position.
Beth Harbison gives us flashbacks of the past, most of them internalized in Quinn’s thoughts, sometimes funny, sometimes, sad, sometimes just plain obsessive over-thinking! Her characters are colorful and alive, sometimes larger than life, sometimes quirky, sometimes painfully lost. Full of many “shoulda-woulda-coulda” moments, I got lost in the story, I was feeling what Quinn felt and thank goodness for her best friend, Glenn…if Glenn hadn’t gotten Quinn of the walls of the past, I’m afraid BOTH of us would have been stuck there! So, you’re probably wondering how it all turned out, does Quinn reach an epiphany of the heart? Does she love one brother more than the other? Does she love either of them? This is light reading, relax and go with the story reading, you won’t need Dramamine, but you will get a little dizzy in the maze that is Quinn’s mind!
This ARC edition was provided by NetGalley and St. Martin's Press in exchange for my honest review.
Expected publication: July 9th 2013
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
ISBN: 9780312599133
Number of Pages: 384
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Recommendation: Adults
My Rating: 4 stars
Available at: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
Beth Harbison gives us flashbacks of the past, most of them internalized in Quinn’s thoughts, sometimes funny, sometimes, sad, sometimes just plain obsessive over-thinking! Her characters are colorful and alive, sometimes larger than life, sometimes quirky, sometimes painfully lost. Full of many “shoulda-woulda-coulda” moments, I got lost in the story, I was feeling what Quinn felt and thank goodness for her best friend, Glenn…if Glenn hadn’t gotten Quinn of the walls of the past, I’m afraid BOTH of us would have been stuck there! So, you’re probably wondering how it all turned out, does Quinn reach an epiphany of the heart? Does she love one brother more than the other? Does she love either of them? This is light reading, relax and go with the story reading, you won’t need Dramamine, but you will get a little dizzy in the maze that is Quinn’s mind!
This ARC edition was provided by NetGalley and St. Martin's Press in exchange for my honest review.
Expected publication: July 9th 2013
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
ISBN: 9780312599133
Number of Pages: 384
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Recommendation: Adults
My Rating: 4 stars
Available at: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
July 27, 2013
I really hate to rate this one so low, normally I love her books. It started out great in the beginning....but there was so much filler to get to the end, it just got really boring at times and I almost fell asleep more than once. I like the premise of the story, and I loved the characters. Glenn and Dottie were fun characters. But it felt like it dragged on, like a minimum number of pages had to be met. I don't know if it's because Quinn was stuck in such a rut in her life - she said more than once that something that happened ten years ago could've happened yesterday - and that's what the story was trying to convey or what, but it was almost like a chore to get to the end of it. I had really high hopes too because I absolutely LOVE the title!
I'm not going to give up on her after one book though, I look forward to the next one when it comes out.
I'm not going to give up on her after one book though, I look forward to the next one when it comes out.
January 14, 2018
2.5 stars ⭐️
August 30, 2013
When I tell you I just said 'Eff it' about 3/4 through and read the last 10 pages JUST to end the book. Yikes!
WAAAAAY too much internal dialogue from the protagonist & not enough background on her relationship with either of the brothers. Very incomplete and it dragged on and on and on!
Do not read unless you have absolutely nothing else to read. I, on the other hand, do...
WAAAAAY too much internal dialogue from the protagonist & not enough background on her relationship with either of the brothers. Very incomplete and it dragged on and on and on!
Do not read unless you have absolutely nothing else to read. I, on the other hand, do...
April 4, 2017
This is the second book I've read by Beth Harbison and I'm starting to get really frustrated. Contrary to what a lot of people think, writing is difficult and not everyone who manages to get published is actually good at it. Harbison is a great writer. The cadence of her writing and the words she uses flow so well that you forget you're seeing words on a page and instead feel like you're watching a movie. Unfortunately, based on the two books I've read, it seems that she is NOT an equally strong storyteller. Chose the Wrong Guy was a very, very long and boring book about an unlikeable heroine who spent more time with her cliched gay best friend than her ultimate love interest. In short, it was a bad book.
So to summarize, Quinn was a terrible person and I couldn't understand why either brother was interested in her. Frank was a jerk in the beginning for Nobody acted like a real person because they made major, life-changing decisions without ever discussing the situation with each other. All in all, it was just a complete dud of a book.
So to summarize, Quinn was a terrible person and I couldn't understand why either brother was interested in her. Frank was a jerk in the beginning for Nobody acted like a real person because they made major, life-changing decisions without ever discussing the situation with each other. All in all, it was just a complete dud of a book.
July 25, 2013
The first book I ever read by Beth Harbison was When in Doubt, Add Butter, and I absolutely fell in love with her characters and the dynamics she could so easily create between them. I knew that I had to pick up this book and review it on my blog, or die trying! This story follows Quinn Barton, cool name for a girl, as she is about to walk down the aisle to marry her high school sweetheart, Burke Morrison. At the last minute, Burke’s brother, Frank, pulls Quinn aside to tell her that she cannot go on with the wedding because Burke has been cheating on her for quite some time now. Quinn does what any sensible woman would do, well maybe. She walks to the end of the aisle, slaps Burke right in the face, and parades off to Vegas with his brother Frank. Sadly, this does not end in the happily ever after she thought it would, and when their grandmother gets remarried, both brothers head back to town for a reunion. Quinn thought she was rid of them for good!
Quinn, after dating both of the Morrison brothers, is now her own little success because she owns her own little wedding boutique where she designs custom made gowns called, Talk of the Gown. I loved hearing about her quaint little shop and her best friend’s Glenn’s cheese and wine shop right next door. I know this is a small, miniscule detail, but Harbison makes every place she writes about feel so much like home. Middlebury, Virginia all of a sudden became Times Square once I became involved in the lives of these vivacious characters. I loved hearing about the nervous brides that came wondering into Quinn’s shop and I loved being a part of that world for a little while.
Quinn’s character, along with Glenn’s character, is all a part of Harbison’s humor and witty sarcasm. Both Quinn and Glenn filled me with moments of uncontrollable laughter. There were moments when I thought to myself that these characters must be based off real people; that’s how realistic Harbison paints a picture. I will say that there was some crude humor and language, but I felt that it definitely fits the personalities of the characters!
***A copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at St. Martin’s Press in exchange for my honest review***
Quinn, after dating both of the Morrison brothers, is now her own little success because she owns her own little wedding boutique where she designs custom made gowns called, Talk of the Gown. I loved hearing about her quaint little shop and her best friend’s Glenn’s cheese and wine shop right next door. I know this is a small, miniscule detail, but Harbison makes every place she writes about feel so much like home. Middlebury, Virginia all of a sudden became Times Square once I became involved in the lives of these vivacious characters. I loved hearing about the nervous brides that came wondering into Quinn’s shop and I loved being a part of that world for a little while.
Quinn’s character, along with Glenn’s character, is all a part of Harbison’s humor and witty sarcasm. Both Quinn and Glenn filled me with moments of uncontrollable laughter. There were moments when I thought to myself that these characters must be based off real people; that’s how realistic Harbison paints a picture. I will say that there was some crude humor and language, but I felt that it definitely fits the personalities of the characters!
***A copy of this book was provided to me by the publishers at St. Martin’s Press in exchange for my honest review***
January 4, 2014
It was an easy read; I'll give it that. But I found that the book and the main character fell into a tedious cycle of self-pity and fairly shallow introspection. Quinn's obsessive fixation on Burke gets wearisome...without much justification. Burke is hot, movie-star hot...that's repeated over and over. I'm still trying to figure out if I was meant to pick up anything more, anything better about this guy that Quinn has been focused on for well more than a decade.
And Frank? The guy she decides she loves in the end? After 17 years of fixating on his brother? I didn't buy that. I can see her coming to the realization that objectively Frank's the better man...maybe. We hear a lot about his sexual prowess and somewhat reserved public temperament. We know Frank loves Quinn. We suspect he won't be a cheater...but that's pretty much it. And yet Quinn suddenly loves him...despite the entire book devoting itself to how much she's still enthralled by Burke. I find it hard to swallow that, after 7 years with his brother followed by an additional 10 years wishing she was still with his brother...that suddenly she's over that and in love with Frank? The same Frank she hasn't seen in ten years. Who comes off as a post-break-up mistake of the one (sorry two, and three by the end of the book) night stand variety? No. Just no.
In the end, Quinn Barton came off as shallow and self-absorbed and I found myself unfulfilled by this particular story.
That said, I found Glenn and his task-a-day challenge moderately entertaining and the book easy enough to read through. But, in the end, I would not recommend the book.
And Frank? The guy she decides she loves in the end? After 17 years of fixating on his brother? I didn't buy that. I can see her coming to the realization that objectively Frank's the better man...maybe. We hear a lot about his sexual prowess and somewhat reserved public temperament. We know Frank loves Quinn. We suspect he won't be a cheater...but that's pretty much it. And yet Quinn suddenly loves him...despite the entire book devoting itself to how much she's still enthralled by Burke. I find it hard to swallow that, after 7 years with his brother followed by an additional 10 years wishing she was still with his brother...that suddenly she's over that and in love with Frank? The same Frank she hasn't seen in ten years. Who comes off as a post-break-up mistake of the one (sorry two, and three by the end of the book) night stand variety? No. Just no.
In the end, Quinn Barton came off as shallow and self-absorbed and I found myself unfulfilled by this particular story.
That said, I found Glenn and his task-a-day challenge moderately entertaining and the book easy enough to read through. But, in the end, I would not recommend the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2013
A Runaway Bride Ten Years Later
Quinn is at the church ready to walk down the aisle to marry Burke, the love of her life, when Burke's brother, Frank, asks her to step outside. He has something important to tell her. Burke has been playing around with another girl. Devastated, Quinn runs back into the church,walks down the aisle, and smacks Burke effectively ending the wedding. Then she goes off for a weekend in Vegas with Frank, but that isn't the happy ending of the story.
Ten years later, Dottie. Burke and Frank's grandmother, is getting remarried. Quinn, who now owns a bridal shop, is making the wedding dress and Frank and Burke are back in town to help Dottie clear up the farm in order to sell it. The boys aren't sure they want the farm sold. Quinn isn't sure how to deal with her old beaus, and Dottie is hoping for a second happy marriage.
This is a fun romance. Middleburg, Virginia, in the middle of horse country, is a beautiful setting. The characters are like people you know. This gives the book a cozy feel. Getting to know Quinn and her men is a good way to spend a quiet weekend.
Although I enjoyed the book, I couldn't get into it until after the first chapter. I felt the author spent too much time in Quinn's head going over and over the same ground. It may be realistic. She was contemplating a life changing step, but I got bored with the emoting and wanted to see what the outcome would be. However, the book does pick up after the first chapter and by moving back and forth between ten years ago and the present, we got to know the characters well and understand their motivations. If you like romance and beautiful settings, this is a great book. The title says it all.
I reviewed this book for Net Galley.
Quinn is at the church ready to walk down the aisle to marry Burke, the love of her life, when Burke's brother, Frank, asks her to step outside. He has something important to tell her. Burke has been playing around with another girl. Devastated, Quinn runs back into the church,walks down the aisle, and smacks Burke effectively ending the wedding. Then she goes off for a weekend in Vegas with Frank, but that isn't the happy ending of the story.
Ten years later, Dottie. Burke and Frank's grandmother, is getting remarried. Quinn, who now owns a bridal shop, is making the wedding dress and Frank and Burke are back in town to help Dottie clear up the farm in order to sell it. The boys aren't sure they want the farm sold. Quinn isn't sure how to deal with her old beaus, and Dottie is hoping for a second happy marriage.
This is a fun romance. Middleburg, Virginia, in the middle of horse country, is a beautiful setting. The characters are like people you know. This gives the book a cozy feel. Getting to know Quinn and her men is a good way to spend a quiet weekend.
Although I enjoyed the book, I couldn't get into it until after the first chapter. I felt the author spent too much time in Quinn's head going over and over the same ground. It may be realistic. She was contemplating a life changing step, but I got bored with the emoting and wanted to see what the outcome would be. However, the book does pick up after the first chapter and by moving back and forth between ten years ago and the present, we got to know the characters well and understand their motivations. If you like romance and beautiful settings, this is a great book. The title says it all.
I reviewed this book for Net Galley.
considering
May 10, 2013I've read five of Beth Harbison books. My opinion has varied...I'm excited about this new release and I can't wait to read it!
Ten years ago, Quinn Barton was on her way to the altar to marry Burke Morrison, her high school sweetheart, when something derailed her. Rather, someone derailed her—the Best Man who at the last minute begged her to reconsider the marriage. He told her that Burke had been cheating on her. For a long time. Quinn, stunned, hurt, and confused, struggled with the obligation of fulfilling her guests’ expectations—providing a wedding—and running for her life.
She chose running. With the Best Man. Who happened to be Burke’s brother, Frank.
That relationship didn’t work either. How could it, when Quinn had been engaged to, in love with, Frank’s brother? Quinn opted for neither, and, instead, spends the next seventeen years working in her family’s Middleburg, Virginia, bridal shop, Talk of the Gown, where she subconsciously does penance for the disservice she did to marriage.
But when the two men return to town for another wedding, old anger, hurt, and passion resurface. Just because you’ve traded the good guy for the bad guy for no guy doesn’t mean you have to stay away from love for the rest of your life, does it? Told with Beth Harbison's flair for humor and heart, Chose the Wrong Guy will keep you guessing and make you believe in the possibilities of love.
Ten years ago, Quinn Barton was on her way to the altar to marry Burke Morrison, her high school sweetheart, when something derailed her. Rather, someone derailed her—the Best Man who at the last minute begged her to reconsider the marriage. He told her that Burke had been cheating on her. For a long time. Quinn, stunned, hurt, and confused, struggled with the obligation of fulfilling her guests’ expectations—providing a wedding—and running for her life.
She chose running. With the Best Man. Who happened to be Burke’s brother, Frank.
That relationship didn’t work either. How could it, when Quinn had been engaged to, in love with, Frank’s brother? Quinn opted for neither, and, instead, spends the next seventeen years working in her family’s Middleburg, Virginia, bridal shop, Talk of the Gown, where she subconsciously does penance for the disservice she did to marriage.
But when the two men return to town for another wedding, old anger, hurt, and passion resurface. Just because you’ve traded the good guy for the bad guy for no guy doesn’t mean you have to stay away from love for the rest of your life, does it? Told with Beth Harbison's flair for humor and heart, Chose the Wrong Guy will keep you guessing and make you believe in the possibilities of love.
May 29, 2013
I received this book as a ARC from netgalley.
I really tried to like Quinn, she made a decision and stuck by it when she left Burke at the alter. Choosing to trust Frank, best man and brother of the groom, Quinn left with him and went to California. She had a relationship with Frank and that ended on a not so great note either. Fast forward 10 years and Quinn is still living in the same town and she owns the a dress shop where she designs beautiful dresses. One day the brother's grandmother, Dottie, comes in the dress shop looking for a wedding dress. Dottie is getting married, and selling the farm that Quinn loves so much. Guess who's coming home to help grandma pack up? Yup, the two brothers. When Quinn sees Burke she is just as attracted to him today as she was ten years ago but she can't get it out of her head that he cheated on her, and she can't get over how handsome Frank is either.
You gotta read this to find out who she picks, who she loves and who she agrees to marry. I had a hard time liking this book, while I did read it relatively fast it was more to get through it then because I loved it. I was also fine with who she chose, but I thought the ending was rushed and it ended abruptly. All in all I was meh about the book. Didn't hate it and didn't love it.
I really tried to like Quinn, she made a decision and stuck by it when she left Burke at the alter. Choosing to trust Frank, best man and brother of the groom, Quinn left with him and went to California. She had a relationship with Frank and that ended on a not so great note either. Fast forward 10 years and Quinn is still living in the same town and she owns the a dress shop where she designs beautiful dresses. One day the brother's grandmother, Dottie, comes in the dress shop looking for a wedding dress. Dottie is getting married, and selling the farm that Quinn loves so much. Guess who's coming home to help grandma pack up? Yup, the two brothers. When Quinn sees Burke she is just as attracted to him today as she was ten years ago but she can't get it out of her head that he cheated on her, and she can't get over how handsome Frank is either.
You gotta read this to find out who she picks, who she loves and who she agrees to marry. I had a hard time liking this book, while I did read it relatively fast it was more to get through it then because I loved it. I was also fine with who she chose, but I thought the ending was rushed and it ended abruptly. All in all I was meh about the book. Didn't hate it and didn't love it.
March 18, 2014
I don't know what is going on but it seems lately all of my favorite authors are coming out with books I am just not a fan of. And here is another one. Usually I like Beth Harbison's books. This time? I just can't recommend it. It started out sounding interesting with Frank giving her wild things to do to break her out of her shell. When I started the book I was single and thought maybe I should play along as well! And then I kept reading...
Quinn is not a sympathetic character to me. I felt she was whiny and became a girl who peaked in high school and could never see past that. The more I read the more I believed that. Anytime she cried over Burke or Frank I wanted to pull my hair out and scream GET OVER IT! Move on! Be your own person! You don't need a man to complete you! Instead this tale reinforces the "you can't be happy unless you find a guy" stereotype. And I just can't recommend that to anyone.
Even though I was single when I started this book I now have a boyfriend. We have been together for 7 months. It took me that long to get through this book (through no fault of my boyfriend!) I would put it down and would be fine for months without knowing what happened next. I hope the next one goes back to the author we know and love!
Quinn is not a sympathetic character to me. I felt she was whiny and became a girl who peaked in high school and could never see past that. The more I read the more I believed that. Anytime she cried over Burke or Frank I wanted to pull my hair out and scream GET OVER IT! Move on! Be your own person! You don't need a man to complete you! Instead this tale reinforces the "you can't be happy unless you find a guy" stereotype. And I just can't recommend that to anyone.
Even though I was single when I started this book I now have a boyfriend. We have been together for 7 months. It took me that long to get through this book (through no fault of my boyfriend!) I would put it down and would be fine for months without knowing what happened next. I hope the next one goes back to the author we know and love!
January 2, 2014
Almost DNF'd this book. I truly felt bad for Frank in the end, even though it's what you would call a happy ending, because I didn't feel that Quinn truly loved him. Glenn and Dottie were way more interesting, while Quinn just kept whining and bemoaning howher life hasn't changed when she hasn't done anything to make her life any different.
I love Beth Harbison's books, but Chose the Wrong Guy, Gave Him the Wrong Finger just didn't do it for me.
I love Beth Harbison's books, but Chose the Wrong Guy, Gave Him the Wrong Finger just didn't do it for me.
May 14, 2025
This was just a really bad read. The book itself was not written well and the story was super uninteresting. The main character acts like a teenager even though she's a grown woman. She's insufferable, whiny, and generally unlikeable. I don't understand what her pull is on these men because she's the most average, generic, person you could imagine. She's also very judgemental and looks down on plus size people. in one part of the book she talks at length about a bride who is overweight and how her fiance was "surprisingly handsome." Why was that surprising? Because she was fat? She truly gave me the ick.
None of this story was interesting or even believable. These men are super distant and cold and she's losing her mind over how amazing they are and what great catches they are. I also thought the 30 day challenge thing her friend did was super boring, unbelievable, and immature. Getting drunk at your job isn't something someone should be challenged to do. Having a one night stand isn't something you should be challenging someone to do.
Overall, completely unimpressed.
None of this story was interesting or even believable. These men are super distant and cold and she's losing her mind over how amazing they are and what great catches they are. I also thought the 30 day challenge thing her friend did was super boring, unbelievable, and immature. Getting drunk at your job isn't something someone should be challenged to do. Having a one night stand isn't something you should be challenging someone to do.
Overall, completely unimpressed.
May 23, 2021
I really enjoyed this book and its funny moments 🙂
August 13, 2013
Moments before Quinn was to walk down the aisle to marry her high school sweetheart, she was given some news that changed everything! Frank, the brother of her soon to be husband, pulled her aside and told her that her fiancé had been cheating on her. What was supposed to be the happiest day of Quinn’s life was quickly turning into a nightmare! But that didn’t stop her from walking down the aisle. Instead of saying, “I do” when she got to the alter she craned her arm back and deposited a hard smack across Burke’s face! Then she turned and ran out of the church. Instead of Burke running after her, it was his brother (and Best Man), Frank, going after her instead. They didn’t just run out of the church, they ran all the way to Vegas. But their sordid encounter didn’t last either. Quinn knew that she couldn’t start a relationship with the brother of her former fiancé. Not to mention it was Burke that she loved, not Frank.
Fast forward ten years, where Quinn still resides in her hometown of Middleburg, Virginia and works in her family’s bridal shop. Isn’t it ironic how the woman who never had the chance to go through with her wedding spends each day helping excited brides to be? One day, Dottie, Burke and Frank’s grandmother, walks into the bridal shop. She announces that she is getting married and is in need of a dress. If that news wasn’t enough to surprise Quinn, what she was about to hear next was sure to throw her for a loop. Dottie informed Quinn that Burke and Frank would be coming home to not only attend the wedding, but to help sell the farm that Quinn had always loved and that held many memories of her and Burke. Could Quinn handle seeing the two men who have played such significant roles in her life? Would seeing her former fiancé be too much for her to handle? And what about the farm? Could she deal with seeing someone else buy a place that holds much sentimental value to her? Come find out as Quinn reevaluates her past and figures out what to do with her future.
Chose The Wrong Guy, Gave Him The Wrong Finger is another amazing book by the very talented Beth Harbison. If the title alone isn’t enough to make you want to run out and get this book, it also has a great story line and cast of characters. Beth Harbison has a way of taking a great story and combining just the right amount of humor. The characters were all so different, yet fun and enjoyable. I really loved this book and didn’t want it to end. I would definitely recommend it to others. It’s a fun book, with great characters, and a story that will keep you wanting more. Once again, Beth Harbison writes a book worthy of 5 stars!
Fast forward ten years, where Quinn still resides in her hometown of Middleburg, Virginia and works in her family’s bridal shop. Isn’t it ironic how the woman who never had the chance to go through with her wedding spends each day helping excited brides to be? One day, Dottie, Burke and Frank’s grandmother, walks into the bridal shop. She announces that she is getting married and is in need of a dress. If that news wasn’t enough to surprise Quinn, what she was about to hear next was sure to throw her for a loop. Dottie informed Quinn that Burke and Frank would be coming home to not only attend the wedding, but to help sell the farm that Quinn had always loved and that held many memories of her and Burke. Could Quinn handle seeing the two men who have played such significant roles in her life? Would seeing her former fiancé be too much for her to handle? And what about the farm? Could she deal with seeing someone else buy a place that holds much sentimental value to her? Come find out as Quinn reevaluates her past and figures out what to do with her future.
Chose The Wrong Guy, Gave Him The Wrong Finger is another amazing book by the very talented Beth Harbison. If the title alone isn’t enough to make you want to run out and get this book, it also has a great story line and cast of characters. Beth Harbison has a way of taking a great story and combining just the right amount of humor. The characters were all so different, yet fun and enjoyable. I really loved this book and didn’t want it to end. I would definitely recommend it to others. It’s a fun book, with great characters, and a story that will keep you wanting more. Once again, Beth Harbison writes a book worthy of 5 stars!
November 16, 2014
Oh, boy. I hate giving bad reviews, but this is going to have to be one of them.
I picked this up at Target because it was 20% off and I thought the name was clever. I skimmed the back cover and it seemed like a typical chick lit story, so I picked it up.
If you love chick lit, you may like this. Personally, I like a dose of reality and common sense in my chick lit, so I didn't. I finished it because I paid more than my typical $5.99 bargain book price and my frugal self made me finish it.
Chose The Wrong Guy, Gave Him The Wrong Finger is about Quinn, a thirty-something year old bridal shop owner. When she was twenty-one, she was about to walk down the aisle with her high school sweetheart, Burke, only to have Frank, the best man (and Burke's brother) burst into the bridal suite to tell her that Burke had cheated on her multiple times and she should consider not marrying him. She doesn't. She runs off to Vegas with the best man and sleeps with him---once. The story flashes forward ten years.
The writing was decent, which was really the only thing tethering me to the novel. I enjoyed Harbison's writing style, though there were some bits that I could have done without (IE, the MC speaking to the reader..."You probably think I'm silly, but...").
Quinn's character was an attempt at being multi-dimensional, quirky, and self-assured, but came out whiny and petty. She hates the happy brides who come into her shop, calling them manipulative or fake. She provides commentary on how skinny and perfect their bodies are, and tries to mention how much she eats---only to tear herself down for it. It's very strange.
I was annoyed by her gay friend, Glenn. He was extremely flat as a character, and served one purpose: to be the person she cried to and who challenged her to live her damn life. Not once was she there for him, not once did he have the chance to open up to her. So she's also a shitty friend.
I was annoyed at how long it took her to get over these men. Ten years? Ten years. For ten years she wallowed in pity, didn't date, didn't move on, didn't live, didn't travel, didn't do anything. No, she literally didn't start living until some dude (who will remain unnamed so I don't ruin the story for you) came to town and proposed out of the blue. Seriously. That's the ending. Her life is miserable and dreary until Prince Charming rides in and proposes.
In a nutshell, it was an obnoxious piece of chick lit. I might try another one of Harbison's books, but this one wasn't for me.
Read more reviews at lifebetweenreads.com!
I picked this up at Target because it was 20% off and I thought the name was clever. I skimmed the back cover and it seemed like a typical chick lit story, so I picked it up.
If you love chick lit, you may like this. Personally, I like a dose of reality and common sense in my chick lit, so I didn't. I finished it because I paid more than my typical $5.99 bargain book price and my frugal self made me finish it.
Chose The Wrong Guy, Gave Him The Wrong Finger is about Quinn, a thirty-something year old bridal shop owner. When she was twenty-one, she was about to walk down the aisle with her high school sweetheart, Burke, only to have Frank, the best man (and Burke's brother) burst into the bridal suite to tell her that Burke had cheated on her multiple times and she should consider not marrying him. She doesn't. She runs off to Vegas with the best man and sleeps with him---once. The story flashes forward ten years.
The writing was decent, which was really the only thing tethering me to the novel. I enjoyed Harbison's writing style, though there were some bits that I could have done without (IE, the MC speaking to the reader..."You probably think I'm silly, but...").
Quinn's character was an attempt at being multi-dimensional, quirky, and self-assured, but came out whiny and petty. She hates the happy brides who come into her shop, calling them manipulative or fake. She provides commentary on how skinny and perfect their bodies are, and tries to mention how much she eats---only to tear herself down for it. It's very strange.
I was annoyed by her gay friend, Glenn. He was extremely flat as a character, and served one purpose: to be the person she cried to and who challenged her to live her damn life. Not once was she there for him, not once did he have the chance to open up to her. So she's also a shitty friend.
I was annoyed at how long it took her to get over these men. Ten years? Ten years. For ten years she wallowed in pity, didn't date, didn't move on, didn't live, didn't travel, didn't do anything. No, she literally didn't start living until some dude (who will remain unnamed so I don't ruin the story for you) came to town and proposed out of the blue. Seriously. That's the ending. Her life is miserable and dreary until Prince Charming rides in and proposes.
In a nutshell, it was an obnoxious piece of chick lit. I might try another one of Harbison's books, but this one wasn't for me.
Read more reviews at lifebetweenreads.com!
September 24, 2016
3.5⭐️
Gotta love me some chick lit! Oh the fairytale, the romantic loves....✨
Gotta love me some chick lit! Oh the fairytale, the romantic loves....✨
October 23, 2014
The Characters
Quinn Barton
Frank Morrison
Burke Morrison
Glenn
I don’t have much to say about each character in general. I like them. Burke is kind of jerky but nothing spectacular stands out about them.
The Story
SPOILERS ahead!!!!!
This is a second chance romance. Quinn is all set to marry her high school sweetheart Burke when Burke’s brother/best man, Frank, drops the bomb that he has been cheating. Quinn runs off with Frank for an impromptu, two day, affair in Vegas. Flash forward 10 years and all three are still single and less than happy in their own way.
From the beginning I was thinking that Frank and Quinn would be together after all is said, done and healed. And they are, however I’m not totally on board with the way they came together. The resolution of their problems never really got worked out to me. Especially the issue of Burke, but hey he’s always loved her and she has always loved him (though she didn’t really realize it) so they are now getting married and I wish all the best for them.
I felt like a lot of this book was speaking directly from me. Especially the scenes between Quinn and Glenn. Soul searching is a terrible process and Q is lucky to have G in her life to help.
The Random Thoughts
**At one point Burke admits he only cheated once while he and Quinn were engaged but her conveniently leaves out any other transgressions while they were together for 6 years.
**Also “Go Commando Day” lasted two days….
Favorite Quote: "So your final assignment is a simple one but it’s going to take forever: be happy. No matter what it takes. No matter how embarrassing it might be sometimes, no matter who or what you might have to forgive, no matter how hideous the color of the hat that makes you smile, be happy.”
4 Stars
Quinn Barton
Frank Morrison
Burke Morrison
Glenn
I don’t have much to say about each character in general. I like them. Burke is kind of jerky but nothing spectacular stands out about them.
The Story
SPOILERS ahead!!!!!
This is a second chance romance. Quinn is all set to marry her high school sweetheart Burke when Burke’s brother/best man, Frank, drops the bomb that he has been cheating. Quinn runs off with Frank for an impromptu, two day, affair in Vegas. Flash forward 10 years and all three are still single and less than happy in their own way.
From the beginning I was thinking that Frank and Quinn would be together after all is said, done and healed. And they are, however I’m not totally on board with the way they came together. The resolution of their problems never really got worked out to me. Especially the issue of Burke, but hey he’s always loved her and she has always loved him (though she didn’t really realize it) so they are now getting married and I wish all the best for them.
I felt like a lot of this book was speaking directly from me. Especially the scenes between Quinn and Glenn. Soul searching is a terrible process and Q is lucky to have G in her life to help.
The Random Thoughts
**At one point Burke admits he only cheated once while he and Quinn were engaged but her conveniently leaves out any other transgressions while they were together for 6 years.
**Also “Go Commando Day” lasted two days….
Favorite Quote: "So your final assignment is a simple one but it’s going to take forever: be happy. No matter what it takes. No matter how embarrassing it might be sometimes, no matter who or what you might have to forgive, no matter how hideous the color of the hat that makes you smile, be happy.”
4 Stars
May 23, 2013
I really liked the characters in the book but I got a little tired of Quinn's wallowing in the past and not moving forward with her life after she leaves her fiancee' at the altar at the age of 21. Most of the book centered on this theme and it was getting a little tiring with the flashbacks to her younger self. Because, like the heroine, the book didn't seem to be moving forward either. But I really enjoyed Glenn and his attempts to get Quinn out of the past & looking towards a happier future with or without the Morrison brothers. And I enjoyed Dottie and some of the brides-to-be that came through the shop. And I was very happy when Quinn seemed to reach an epiphany about the two brothers, Burke & Frank, messing her around and it seemed like she was finally going to forget about them and start the next chapter of her life. But then she had a moment with older brother, Frank, and suddenly (to me at least) realized that she was in love with him not Burke after all. I would have given my review more stars but I did really feel there wasn't much forward momentum to the story for the longest time. Quinn would moan to her best friend, Glenn, about how she can't get thoughts of Burke and Frank and what-could-have-been out of her mind. Glenn would let her talk it out & try to give her advice to get her out of her rut which she would argue her way out of for the most part. Some of the best parts of this book were the daily tasks that Glenn set up for her in an attempt to get her to forget about the past. Having said all of this, I will probably read another book by this author.
October 11, 2024
5★♥
I preordered this book because the title and the premise sounded fun. I enjoyed reading this and think that it's one I'd reread again. The storyline of Quinn finding out from the best man/ brother that her fiancé (Burke Morrison) had cheated on her. And it's still unclear if she had a short affair with Frank (Burke's brother) for revenge or a drunken decision. Fast forward 10 years, in which Quinn has to confront her pent up emotion about Burke's lies. I liked how there was some flashbacks. It helped me better understand what Burke and Frank meant to Quinn and why she was still holding onto past love and dreams. I really got into this story. Just felt there was a little bit too much wording and not enough dialogue because a couple of times I'd forget that Quinn was having a conversation with others.
The character development was strong. I could relate to Quinn Barton's habit of wanting life to stay as they are. And I liked her good friend, Glenn Ryland and that he wasn't made to be a stereotypical gay man. And their friendship felt genuine. I think Burke was just ok. He wasn't not likeable but I just didn't care for about him. I really liked Frank though. I was cheering for him throughout.
I also was thinking how this was a bit like the Sabrina movie. And ironically Audrey Hepburn was mentioned many times (along with some other actors).
I preordered this book because the title and the premise sounded fun. I enjoyed reading this and think that it's one I'd reread again. The storyline of Quinn finding out from the best man/ brother that her fiancé (Burke Morrison) had cheated on her. And it's still unclear if she had a short affair with Frank (Burke's brother) for revenge or a drunken decision. Fast forward 10 years, in which Quinn has to confront her pent up emotion about Burke's lies. I liked how there was some flashbacks. It helped me better understand what Burke and Frank meant to Quinn and why she was still holding onto past love and dreams. I really got into this story. Just felt there was a little bit too much wording and not enough dialogue because a couple of times I'd forget that Quinn was having a conversation with others.
The character development was strong. I could relate to Quinn Barton's habit of wanting life to stay as they are. And I liked her good friend, Glenn Ryland and that he wasn't made to be a stereotypical gay man. And their friendship felt genuine. I think Burke was just ok. He wasn't not likeable but I just didn't care for about him. I really liked Frank though. I was cheering for him throughout.
I also was thinking how this was a bit like the Sabrina movie. And ironically Audrey Hepburn was mentioned many times (along with some other actors).
February 23, 2018
I loved the title of this book. I thought this title meant that the heroine would be a total badass. However it was not. The heroine was very wimpy and very whiny.
This book is about a woman, Quinn, who jilts her fiancee at the altar because she finds out that he has been cheating on her. She then runs off with his brother to Vegas on a rebound relationship that doesn't work out. 10 years later the grandmother is getting married and then she spends the entire book agonizing over her feelings for the two brothers.
I thought her best friend, Glenn, was an awful friend. Made her do a lot of dumb things. If he was a really good friend he would have slapped some sense into her and told her quit whining about this. Move on with your life!
After 10 years she can't move on? All of her agonizing over this.. which is really the whole book just drove me insane. I figured out what the ending was fairly early on but it was stupid. The ending should have been that she sells the business and moves away and never sees any of those two again and finds a new man and/or new purpose.
This book is about a woman, Quinn, who jilts her fiancee at the altar because she finds out that he has been cheating on her. She then runs off with his brother to Vegas on a rebound relationship that doesn't work out. 10 years later the grandmother is getting married and then she spends the entire book agonizing over her feelings for the two brothers.
I thought her best friend, Glenn, was an awful friend. Made her do a lot of dumb things. If he was a really good friend he would have slapped some sense into her and told her quit whining about this. Move on with your life!
After 10 years she can't move on? All of her agonizing over this.. which is really the whole book just drove me insane. I figured out what the ending was fairly early on but it was stupid. The ending should have been that she sells the business and moves away and never sees any of those two again and finds a new man and/or new purpose.
June 15, 2013
I thought this was an okay book. Quinn is getting ready to walk down the aisle when her fiancé's brother comes to tell her that he has been cheating on her. She leaves him at the altar and goes on a trip with the brother. The story moves back and forth from this time to ten years later when the two brothers' grandmother is getting ready to get married and Quinn is making the wedding dress. She is forced to deal with the past and then towards the end there is a possibility of history repeating itself. This was a good chick lit book. Not the best book I've read but it wasn't bad either. 3 stars for me.
September 11, 2016
Who could resist such a title? I was delighted to receive an ARC Giveaway from First Reads. The whole scenario is revealed on the front cover. Cute and catchy. Staged between two weddings, a bridal shop owner is torn between the affections of two brothers ten years after leaving one at the altar when the other exposes his brother's philandering behavior. This straightforward and predictable romance has a first person narrator with a razor-sharp wit, who perhaps rambles too repetitively with her pining self-reflections. The conversational tone, snappy dialogue and amusing tales, along with a full cast of colorful and endearing characters make this novel a light-hearted and enjoyable read.
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