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Happily Never After
For fans of Jenny Han and Kasie West comes a charming YA rom-com about a girl on a chaotic quest to track down her runaway bride sister.
What readers are
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ From the very first page, I was hooked! This book had me smiling. – BookSirens
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cute and sweet young adult romance. Shep is the perfect teen heartthrob. – BookSirens
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely loved this story. Such a fun read and kept me drawn in. I devoured it. - BookSirens
⭐⭐⭐⭐ The chemistry between Arden and Shep is evident from the get-go. Another book boyfriend added to the list.– BookSprout
Does happily-ever-after really exist?
Arden doesn’t think so. After watching her parents’ messy divorce, she’s convinced that love doesn’t last forever—and she can’t understand why her sister, Laurel, would want to get married. Arden tries to keep her doubts to herself, but during her maid-of-honor speech at the welcome dinner, her true feelings about marriage slip out in spectacular fashion.
The next morning, Arden wakes to a Laurel has turned runaway bride. Convinced her sister’s disappearance is her fault, Arden scrambles to find her before anyone else realizes she’s missing—especially the groom. Desperate to make things right, she teams up with the groom’s charming but off-limits brother, Shep, to search the city.
As the clock ticks down, Arden starts to question everything she thought she knew about happy endings. Maybe love isn’t as impossible—or as complicated—as she always believed.
What readers are
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ From the very first page, I was hooked! This book had me smiling. – BookSirens
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cute and sweet young adult romance. Shep is the perfect teen heartthrob. – BookSirens
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely loved this story. Such a fun read and kept me drawn in. I devoured it. - BookSirens
⭐⭐⭐⭐ The chemistry between Arden and Shep is evident from the get-go. Another book boyfriend added to the list.– BookSprout
Does happily-ever-after really exist?
Arden doesn’t think so. After watching her parents’ messy divorce, she’s convinced that love doesn’t last forever—and she can’t understand why her sister, Laurel, would want to get married. Arden tries to keep her doubts to herself, but during her maid-of-honor speech at the welcome dinner, her true feelings about marriage slip out in spectacular fashion.
The next morning, Arden wakes to a Laurel has turned runaway bride. Convinced her sister’s disappearance is her fault, Arden scrambles to find her before anyone else realizes she’s missing—especially the groom. Desperate to make things right, she teams up with the groom’s charming but off-limits brother, Shep, to search the city.
As the clock ticks down, Arden starts to question everything she thought she knew about happy endings. Maybe love isn’t as impossible—or as complicated—as she always believed.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2025
2 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Honeybourn
6 books152 followersJennifer Honeybourn is a fan of British accents, Broadway musicals, and epic, happily-ever-after love stories. She is the author of several young adult novels, including Wesley James Ruined My Life, When Life Gives You Demons, Just My Luck and The Do-Over. She also writes middle grade books under the pseudonym J.E. Hailstone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 27, 2025
Arden Stewart doesn’t believe in happily-ever-after. After her parents’ messy divorce and their continued arguments, marriage and love are not on her radar, and she’s surprised that her older sister, Laurel, wants to risk getting married. So, during her drunken maid-of-honor speech, Arden tells Laurel what her chances are of being happily married. She’s not proud of it, but what is done is done. However, the next morning, Arden goes to her sister’s hotel room and finds her gone, leaving behind a note for her fiancé that she can’t marry him. Feeling guilty and desperate to bring Laurel back and save the wedding, Arden and Shep (Laurel’s fiancé’s little brother) set out to the streets of Toronto and search for the runaway bride. But when sparks fly between the two, Arden begins to wonder if love is really a ticking time bomb or if it can be something magically wonderful.
What a sweet and short book! I really enjoyed the writing, the story, and the setting! Now I want to go to Canada and see all the places that were mentioned.
I can totally understand Arden’s sentiments about marriage and love. I don’t have many examples in my life of what a happy and healthy marriage looks like. Although the drama between her parents was a little triggering and resurfaced some unpleasant memories, it helped me sympathize with Arden and her sister.
However…I think what Laurel did was super selfish and immature. Like, girl. If you want to be treated like an adult and do adult things, communicating with your partner about what you want and how you are feeling is the only thing that should have crossed your mind, not running away and scaring your sister and your future brother-in-law, forcing them to run around looking for you. I mean, I get it. She has some things she needs to work on emotionally, but go see a therapist or a pre-marital counselor before you hop into marriage!
Another thing that I didn’t really like was how similar the voices were, meaning that Shep and Arden sounded too much alike. Granted, they are teenagers (I didn’t know that until later on, but that is beside the point 😅), but giving them their own voice, phrases, and mannerisms would have bumped up my rating. I did get a bit tired of all the names of the places Arden and Shep came across. It made this feel like more of a travel guide than a story, but that didn’t really affect how I rated this book. Also, I felt the ending was too abrupt and not as satisfying as I hoped, but I’ll take it. ☺
All in all, this was a fun story, and I definitely recommend it if you like clean, sweet romances.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author and BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
❗Content Warnings❗
Swearing: Little to none.
Spice: No (just a non-descriptive kissing scene.)
What a sweet and short book! I really enjoyed the writing, the story, and the setting! Now I want to go to Canada and see all the places that were mentioned.
I can totally understand Arden’s sentiments about marriage and love. I don’t have many examples in my life of what a happy and healthy marriage looks like. Although the drama between her parents was a little triggering and resurfaced some unpleasant memories, it helped me sympathize with Arden and her sister.
However…I think what Laurel did was super selfish and immature. Like, girl. If you want to be treated like an adult and do adult things, communicating with your partner about what you want and how you are feeling is the only thing that should have crossed your mind, not running away and scaring your sister and your future brother-in-law, forcing them to run around looking for you. I mean, I get it. She has some things she needs to work on emotionally, but go see a therapist or a pre-marital counselor before you hop into marriage!
Another thing that I didn’t really like was how similar the voices were, meaning that Shep and Arden sounded too much alike. Granted, they are teenagers (I didn’t know that until later on, but that is beside the point 😅), but giving them their own voice, phrases, and mannerisms would have bumped up my rating. I did get a bit tired of all the names of the places Arden and Shep came across. It made this feel like more of a travel guide than a story, but that didn’t really affect how I rated this book. Also, I felt the ending was too abrupt and not as satisfying as I hoped, but I’ll take it. ☺
All in all, this was a fun story, and I definitely recommend it if you like clean, sweet romances.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author and BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
❗Content Warnings❗
Swearing: Little to none.
Spice: No (just a non-descriptive kissing scene.)
October 3, 2025
Happily Never After was a sweet, fast-paced romance. It is a great read if you are looking for something light-hearted, yet full of meaning. I fell in love with all the characters, and the story was beautifully written. I definitely recommend Happily Never After, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 9, 2025
If you like wedding drama, complicated family dynamics, and a romance that sneaks up on you, this one definitely delivers. It’s heartfelt, funny, and left me rooting for Arden to believe in love after all.
A heartfelt, witty romance with just the right amount of wedding-day chaos. Couldn’t put it down.
Received an advanced copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
A heartfelt, witty romance with just the right amount of wedding-day chaos. Couldn’t put it down.
Received an advanced copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
October 7, 2025
Book Review: Runaway Bride, Toronto Edition
⭐ 3 / 5
Format: eARC via BookSirens | Genre: Sweet Romance | Setting: Toronto, Canada
⸻
Overview:
If you like your romances low on spice, big on heart, and sprinkled with just enough chaos to make you laugh and sigh at the same time—this one fits the bill. The setup is great: a runaway bride, a panicked maid of honour, and the fiancé’s brother teaming up to track her down across Toronto. It’s a road trip–style story full of heartfelt moments, family drama, and a little bit of “what even is love, really?” existential pondering. Cute? Yes. Perfect? Not quite.
⸻
Ratings (1–5)
The Plot: 3/5
The premise had so much potential—a chaotic wedding morning, a missing bride, and two unlikely partners teaming up to fix it. But the whole thing leaned a bit too far into Hallmark territory without adding much new.
Laurel’s disappearing act? Girl. That’s not “finding yourself,” that’s just rude. Therapy before flight, please.
⸻
The Vibes: 3.5/5
Toronto was practically its own character in this book, and while I loved that energy at first, it did start feeling like a travel brochure after a while. Still, the writing had an easy, breezy tone that made it a quick and fun read. Definitely gave “sweet fall afternoon read with a cup of tea” energy.
⸻
Main Characters: 3/5
Arden was messy in a way that actually worked—sarcastic, wounded, and a bit too honest (especially with a microphone and some champagne involved).
Shep was sweet, but his voice blended too much with hers. I had to remind myself who was talking more than once.
⸻
Side Characters: 2.5/5
Laurel… whew. I know she’s supposed to be sympathetic, but running away on your wedding day without so much as a text? Girl, no. Just no. Communication exists.
The rest of the cast fades into the background, which is fine—it keeps the focus on our runaway search duo.
⸻
Impact: 3/5
It didn’t change my life, but it didn’t need to. It’s a clean, quick, palate-cleansing romance with a cute setup and a message about second chances (and maybe not airing your trauma during speeches).
⸻
Overall Rating: 3 / 5
⸻
Scene Stealer:
Arden’s drunken maid-of-honour speech. Painful, chaotic, iconic.
⸻
Would I Reread or Recommend?
📖 Reread: Probably not.
📣 Recommend: Yes, if you’re into clean romances with a hint of chaos and zero spice.
📝 Notes: Big fan of the concept, not so much of the execution—but still, it’s cute, quick, and feels like watching a made-for-TV romcom on a Sunday afternoon.
⭐ 3 / 5
Format: eARC via BookSirens | Genre: Sweet Romance | Setting: Toronto, Canada
⸻
Overview:
If you like your romances low on spice, big on heart, and sprinkled with just enough chaos to make you laugh and sigh at the same time—this one fits the bill. The setup is great: a runaway bride, a panicked maid of honour, and the fiancé’s brother teaming up to track her down across Toronto. It’s a road trip–style story full of heartfelt moments, family drama, and a little bit of “what even is love, really?” existential pondering. Cute? Yes. Perfect? Not quite.
⸻
Ratings (1–5)
The Plot: 3/5
The premise had so much potential—a chaotic wedding morning, a missing bride, and two unlikely partners teaming up to fix it. But the whole thing leaned a bit too far into Hallmark territory without adding much new.
Laurel’s disappearing act? Girl. That’s not “finding yourself,” that’s just rude. Therapy before flight, please.
⸻
The Vibes: 3.5/5
Toronto was practically its own character in this book, and while I loved that energy at first, it did start feeling like a travel brochure after a while. Still, the writing had an easy, breezy tone that made it a quick and fun read. Definitely gave “sweet fall afternoon read with a cup of tea” energy.
⸻
Main Characters: 3/5
Arden was messy in a way that actually worked—sarcastic, wounded, and a bit too honest (especially with a microphone and some champagne involved).
Shep was sweet, but his voice blended too much with hers. I had to remind myself who was talking more than once.
⸻
Side Characters: 2.5/5
Laurel… whew. I know she’s supposed to be sympathetic, but running away on your wedding day without so much as a text? Girl, no. Just no. Communication exists.
The rest of the cast fades into the background, which is fine—it keeps the focus on our runaway search duo.
⸻
Impact: 3/5
It didn’t change my life, but it didn’t need to. It’s a clean, quick, palate-cleansing romance with a cute setup and a message about second chances (and maybe not airing your trauma during speeches).
⸻
Overall Rating: 3 / 5
⸻
Scene Stealer:
Arden’s drunken maid-of-honour speech. Painful, chaotic, iconic.
⸻
Would I Reread or Recommend?
📖 Reread: Probably not.
📣 Recommend: Yes, if you’re into clean romances with a hint of chaos and zero spice.
📝 Notes: Big fan of the concept, not so much of the execution—but still, it’s cute, quick, and feels like watching a made-for-TV romcom on a Sunday afternoon.
September 15, 2025
Note: I was fortunate to receive an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Are you looking to take a tour of Toronto, Canada from the comfort of your home?
If yes, Jennifer Honeybourn's Happily Never After might be the book for you. A YA comedy romance that takes place in the span of a single chaotic day, this story includes a sister's mad dash to track down her sister, a runaway bride. As a Canadian from Ontario, I loved how I can picture the adventure on the pages. I also found Laurel's character to be complex and realistic for her age. She is an excellent character for starting some deep conversations in the story about love and growing up.
Given the short time span of the book, the author does deliver an action-packed adventure where I do feel genuine worry for Laurel's whereabouts but am sometimes baffled by Arden's decision to keep her sister's absence a secret from everyone else while she searches in a city she does not know. When it comes to Shep, I feel as though he is constantly choosing Arden over his own brother despite the short time of knowing each other. I admit, they do make an interesting tag-team duo traveling across the city in an unconventional fashion. By the end, I wanted to know how their budding relationship might continue to develop.
One book I was reminded of loosely was John Green's Paper Towns. Both stories include a search for someone that highlights themes of growing up, perception vs. reality with Laurel's character, and ultimately growth for both sisters.
Given everything, I rate Happily Never After 4/5 stars. It is a short but sweet read that presents the city of Toronto in an exciting and refreshing light.
Are you looking to take a tour of Toronto, Canada from the comfort of your home?
If yes, Jennifer Honeybourn's Happily Never After might be the book for you. A YA comedy romance that takes place in the span of a single chaotic day, this story includes a sister's mad dash to track down her sister, a runaway bride. As a Canadian from Ontario, I loved how I can picture the adventure on the pages. I also found Laurel's character to be complex and realistic for her age. She is an excellent character for starting some deep conversations in the story about love and growing up.
Given the short time span of the book, the author does deliver an action-packed adventure where I do feel genuine worry for Laurel's whereabouts but am sometimes baffled by Arden's decision to keep her sister's absence a secret from everyone else while she searches in a city she does not know. When it comes to Shep, I feel as though he is constantly choosing Arden over his own brother despite the short time of knowing each other. I admit, they do make an interesting tag-team duo traveling across the city in an unconventional fashion. By the end, I wanted to know how their budding relationship might continue to develop.
One book I was reminded of loosely was John Green's Paper Towns. Both stories include a search for someone that highlights themes of growing up, perception vs. reality with Laurel's character, and ultimately growth for both sisters.
Given everything, I rate Happily Never After 4/5 stars. It is a short but sweet read that presents the city of Toronto in an exciting and refreshing light.
September 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! It is a quick read but I almost feel like I got a tour of Toronto and learned a lot about Greek mythology. I know, that sounds so random but the main character, Arden, knows her Greek mythology well. She is thinking she would like to teach greek mythology someday but public speaking is not her thing as she so brilliantly displays in some of the first few scenes of the book plus her dad would love for her to become a lawyer.
This book begins with Arden at her sister's, Laurel, wedding rehearsal. Arden is supposed to have written out a little speech for the wedding rehearsal dinner but public speaking makes Arden want to vomit so she figures she'll wing it. She finds out winging it can have dire consequences and she is convinced her little speech is what causes Laurel to run away and cancel her wedding. Arden is the one to discover her sister left and is determined to find her and talk some sense into her sister but she knows nothing about Toronto and hasn't the slightest clue where her sister might be. But thank goodness she doesn't have to go it alone because the groom to be's brother, Shep, walks in just as Arden is formulating a plan. I love Shep. He is attentive to Arden and fiercely loyal to his brother. I love the day Shep and Arden spend together and you'll just have to read the book to find out the rest. I thought the end was quite a bit rushed but all in all, I really enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book begins with Arden at her sister's, Laurel, wedding rehearsal. Arden is supposed to have written out a little speech for the wedding rehearsal dinner but public speaking makes Arden want to vomit so she figures she'll wing it. She finds out winging it can have dire consequences and she is convinced her little speech is what causes Laurel to run away and cancel her wedding. Arden is the one to discover her sister left and is determined to find her and talk some sense into her sister but she knows nothing about Toronto and hasn't the slightest clue where her sister might be. But thank goodness she doesn't have to go it alone because the groom to be's brother, Shep, walks in just as Arden is formulating a plan. I love Shep. He is attentive to Arden and fiercely loyal to his brother. I love the day Shep and Arden spend together and you'll just have to read the book to find out the rest. I thought the end was quite a bit rushed but all in all, I really enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 17, 2025
~HAPPILY NEVER AFTER BY JENNIFER HONEYBOURN~
A Cozy and Feel-good Read.
Summary: A fun and very interesting look into the life of Arden who believes love is just a nuisance, mainly because of her parents' messy divorce. To make matters worse—her sister Laurel is getting married and Arden is the maid of honour, AND has to deliver a speech. Enter Shep, Laurel's soon-to-be brother-in-law, he's everything Arden would've wanted in a man, if she moved past her previous experience.
The anticipated speech goes horribly wrong, and the next morning Arden discovers that her sister had ran away. Worried and guilt-ridden, Arden enlists on the help of Shep in order to find Laurel before they start to notice her absence—and perhaps find love too?
Things I liked: I really loved the overall vibes of the book/excerpt that I've read so far. Thr chemistry between Arden and Shep is evident from the get-go and I'm dying to have a glimpse of Shep's POV. He is already so swoon-worthy, another book boyfriend added to the list ;)
Things that could've been improved: The only thing that bugs me is that every time there's a mention of love or marriage, Arden scrunches her face(or I atleast imagine her to) and goes on about how her parents' divorce scarred her, the repetition gets a tad bit meh. But it has great potential to be a great read!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Cozy and Feel-good Read.
Summary: A fun and very interesting look into the life of Arden who believes love is just a nuisance, mainly because of her parents' messy divorce. To make matters worse—her sister Laurel is getting married and Arden is the maid of honour, AND has to deliver a speech. Enter Shep, Laurel's soon-to-be brother-in-law, he's everything Arden would've wanted in a man, if she moved past her previous experience.
The anticipated speech goes horribly wrong, and the next morning Arden discovers that her sister had ran away. Worried and guilt-ridden, Arden enlists on the help of Shep in order to find Laurel before they start to notice her absence—and perhaps find love too?
Things I liked: I really loved the overall vibes of the book/excerpt that I've read so far. Thr chemistry between Arden and Shep is evident from the get-go and I'm dying to have a glimpse of Shep's POV. He is already so swoon-worthy, another book boyfriend added to the list ;)
Things that could've been improved: The only thing that bugs me is that every time there's a mention of love or marriage, Arden scrunches her face(or I atleast imagine her to) and goes on about how her parents' divorce scarred her, the repetition gets a tad bit meh. But it has great potential to be a great read!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 30, 2025
A very relaxing read, the book is written from the perspective of Arden, a younger sister who is asked to hold a speech at the wedding of her sister Laurel with Andrew. The catch is, Arden does not believe in happy marriages due to their parents messy divorce. After a horrible drunk speech and a meeting with Shep, the brother of the groom, Arden finds Laurel's room empty and together with Shep embarks on an adventure to find her sister in an unknown city.
Throughout the book, we find out more details about the relationship between Andrew and Laurel and while I think we could have gotten more details about their relationship, we get a good image of the love Laurel has for Andrew and how they were a good match together. The characters were fairly well designed and had realistic perspectives on life and love. Arden and Shep's relationship was really cute and it was a good depiction of young highschool love. The father is quite a problematic character and it's obvious why him and the mother got divorced. Overall, this is a very cute relaxing read with some twists and while the plot is fairly simple and expectable, the writing style and the images painted are sweet and a nice depiction of young teenage love. The end is well balanced and realistic.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Throughout the book, we find out more details about the relationship between Andrew and Laurel and while I think we could have gotten more details about their relationship, we get a good image of the love Laurel has for Andrew and how they were a good match together. The characters were fairly well designed and had realistic perspectives on life and love. Arden and Shep's relationship was really cute and it was a good depiction of young highschool love. The father is quite a problematic character and it's obvious why him and the mother got divorced. Overall, this is a very cute relaxing read with some twists and while the plot is fairly simple and expectable, the writing style and the images painted are sweet and a nice depiction of young teenage love. The end is well balanced and realistic.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 3, 2025
I rated this 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3.
Arden's sister Laurel is set to marry Andrew. At the welcome dinner, Arden delivers a drunken speech highlighting the rates of divorce and how most marriages won't last, citing her own parents' marriage.
The following morning, Laurel is missing. Arden and Shep (Andrew's brother) try to find Laurel before anyone finds out.
I enjoyed the premise of the book.
However, I found that the novel became quite repetitive - I lost count of the number of times that Arden blamed her speech for her sister's disappearance; the number of times that Arden and Seth mentioned how Andrew would be so hurt by Laurel's dumping him in a note; and the number of times Arden recited all the places they visited; not to mention the number of times we were told that her parents hated one another. It felt like every so often, we'd receive a recap of what had already happened.
In addition, the way this book was written, I would say would suit young adults. I found the writing quite juvenile and as a middle-aged adult, I'm probably not the best audience.
Overall, this was an ok read, but the book would have benefited from some good editing.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Arden's sister Laurel is set to marry Andrew. At the welcome dinner, Arden delivers a drunken speech highlighting the rates of divorce and how most marriages won't last, citing her own parents' marriage.
The following morning, Laurel is missing. Arden and Shep (Andrew's brother) try to find Laurel before anyone finds out.
I enjoyed the premise of the book.
However, I found that the novel became quite repetitive - I lost count of the number of times that Arden blamed her speech for her sister's disappearance; the number of times that Arden and Seth mentioned how Andrew would be so hurt by Laurel's dumping him in a note; and the number of times Arden recited all the places they visited; not to mention the number of times we were told that her parents hated one another. It felt like every so often, we'd receive a recap of what had already happened.
In addition, the way this book was written, I would say would suit young adults. I found the writing quite juvenile and as a middle-aged adult, I'm probably not the best audience.
Overall, this was an ok read, but the book would have benefited from some good editing.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2025
First of all, I'd like to thank the author Jennifer Honeybourn and Booksiren for sending me the ARC of this book and giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Unfortunately, this was a 2 star read for me for so many reasons. Starting off with the main female character, Arden, she really got on my nerves and was kinda annoying and very cringe. I felt that the storyline was moving slowly and was very boring. Honestly, it took me a while to get into this book.
I also felt that the storyline was stuck on one track and instead of focusing on the main male character Shep and main female character Arden, the book focused mainly on Arden's sister the whole time and her crisis.
I found it very confusing and cringe when Arden took over and tried to make things right for something she didn't even do wrong. It's not her fault that her sister broke off her own wedding a day before the actual wedding and ran off. I especially felt annoyed when Arden blamed herself for her sister breaking off the wedding and running away. I also felt annoyed when she kept stopping Shepherd from telling his brother Andrew the truth.
Overall, I didn’t like that the book ended with a cliffhanger.
Unfortunately, this was a 2 star read for me for so many reasons. Starting off with the main female character, Arden, she really got on my nerves and was kinda annoying and very cringe. I felt that the storyline was moving slowly and was very boring. Honestly, it took me a while to get into this book.
I also felt that the storyline was stuck on one track and instead of focusing on the main male character Shep and main female character Arden, the book focused mainly on Arden's sister the whole time and her crisis.
I found it very confusing and cringe when Arden took over and tried to make things right for something she didn't even do wrong. It's not her fault that her sister broke off her own wedding a day before the actual wedding and ran off. I especially felt annoyed when Arden blamed herself for her sister breaking off the wedding and running away. I also felt annoyed when she kept stopping Shepherd from telling his brother Andrew the truth.
Overall, I didn’t like that the book ended with a cliffhanger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2025
This sadly fell to the back of the pile while I was reading some much bigger & longer books but I am glad I have taken a break and picked it up!
Arden Stewart doesn’t quite believe in happily ever after. Navigating her parents messy divorce with her sister has left her feeling that marriage isn’t in her future.
Her sister Lauren however hasn’t quite given up on love and is about to marry Andrew, until the day before the wedding goes missing. Arden (having given a bad drunken speech the night before) thinks it is her flat and goes tearing around the city with Andrew brother Shep to try and find her before people realise the wedding might be called off!
Heartfelt, funny, realistic and set in Canada! The mad dash around the city and the descriptions make me want to visit one day and goon a similar tour myself!
Overall a clean, fun, marriage gone wrong, chance meeting, fast paced easy read!!
Thank you to the author Jennifer Honeybourn and Booksirens for an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
Arden Stewart doesn’t quite believe in happily ever after. Navigating her parents messy divorce with her sister has left her feeling that marriage isn’t in her future.
Her sister Lauren however hasn’t quite given up on love and is about to marry Andrew, until the day before the wedding goes missing. Arden (having given a bad drunken speech the night before) thinks it is her flat and goes tearing around the city with Andrew brother Shep to try and find her before people realise the wedding might be called off!
Heartfelt, funny, realistic and set in Canada! The mad dash around the city and the descriptions make me want to visit one day and goon a similar tour myself!
Overall a clean, fun, marriage gone wrong, chance meeting, fast paced easy read!!
Thank you to the author Jennifer Honeybourn and Booksirens for an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
August 27, 2025
I enjoyed this book over all, I did kind of feel it was unrealistic that they could go to all of the places they did in the amount of time they had (part of a day). Then there is the question of if they do find her sister will her sister change her mind? Is the wedding still going to be happening and if it doesn't will Shep and his family want to have anything to do with Arden if the wedding doesn't happen?
Cute & Sweet Young adult romance, no spice age appropriate. Shep is the perfect teen heart throb and even helps Arden a bit with her fear of public speaking along the way.
wrote more about this on my blog: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
*ARC read *Young Adult *Runaway bride *Family drama *musical MMC
*fear of public speaking FMC *reluctant accomplice *book sirens *underage drinking
*no spice just kisses *takes place in a few days time
Cute & Sweet Young adult romance, no spice age appropriate. Shep is the perfect teen heart throb and even helps Arden a bit with her fear of public speaking along the way.
wrote more about this on my blog: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
*ARC read *Young Adult *Runaway bride *Family drama *musical MMC
*fear of public speaking FMC *reluctant accomplice *book sirens *underage drinking
*no spice just kisses *takes place in a few days time
October 2, 2025
I don’t usually rate contemporary romance this high, but Happily Never After surprised me in the best way! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Insta-love isn’t usually my thing, and Arden, our MC, sometimes got on my nerves. But her difficult childhood clearly shaped her personality, and I appreciated how the story explored that trauma realistically. I also enjoyed Arden’s Greek-mythology stories—plus Shep’s reactions to them were kinda cute!
The family drama felt raw and believable. I’m not from a broken family, so it really opened my eyes to that reality. I honestly wished we’d seen more of Arden’s sister and her partner because they were such an interesting couple. I teared up a little because of them, ngl.
Overall, it’s a cute, short, and heartfelt romance with some surprisingly heavy moments that left me a little emotional in the best way. 💛
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Insta-love isn’t usually my thing, and Arden, our MC, sometimes got on my nerves. But her difficult childhood clearly shaped her personality, and I appreciated how the story explored that trauma realistically. I also enjoyed Arden’s Greek-mythology stories—plus Shep’s reactions to them were kinda cute!
The family drama felt raw and believable. I’m not from a broken family, so it really opened my eyes to that reality. I honestly wished we’d seen more of Arden’s sister and her partner because they were such an interesting couple. I teared up a little because of them, ngl.
Overall, it’s a cute, short, and heartfelt romance with some surprisingly heavy moments that left me a little emotional in the best way. 💛
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 1, 2025
When Arden gives a dramatic speech at a rehearsal dinner for her sister’s wedding in Happily Never After by Jennifer Honeybourn, things get out of hand very quickly, because the next morning the bride to be has run away. Together with the groom’s handsome brother, she goes on a hunt through Toronto to find her sister and change her mind.
This was such a sweet story. I loved Arden from the first. She is quite young and had a hard time in her youth because of the divorce of her parents, who until this day cannot get along. The hunt for her sister makes that you get a nice view of the city of Toronto and while they are doing this, Arden tells Shep all kind of mythology stories, which I loved. He is quite charming and they have a great chemistry.
The writing style is flowing and as you don’t know if they will find the bride to be, it is an engaging story.
I loved reading Happily Never After, it is a quick sweet story, with lovely characters and a nice plot.
This was such a sweet story. I loved Arden from the first. She is quite young and had a hard time in her youth because of the divorce of her parents, who until this day cannot get along. The hunt for her sister makes that you get a nice view of the city of Toronto and while they are doing this, Arden tells Shep all kind of mythology stories, which I loved. He is quite charming and they have a great chemistry.
The writing style is flowing and as you don’t know if they will find the bride to be, it is an engaging story.
I loved reading Happily Never After, it is a quick sweet story, with lovely characters and a nice plot.
November 18, 2025
Arden Stewart is in Toronto for her sister’s wedding. Arden is afraid of public speaking so she isn’t prepared when she gives her speech at the wedding rehearsal. The next morning, Laurel, Arden’s sister, leaves a note for Andrew, her fiancé, that she can’t go through with the wedding. Arden is worried she’s the reason Laurel ran as she mentioned the divorce statistics in her speech. She enlists the help of Andrew’s brother, Shephard “Shep” Tremblay, to help her find the runaway bride. We follow Arden and Shep around Toronto trying to find Laurel. Arden entertains Shep with Greek mythology along the way. I have to say that I have never read a book like this before. It was interesting. I enjoyed Arden and Shep getting to know each other on their search. This was an interesting book and I recommend you give it a read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 8, 2025
**ARC REVIEW**
From the face of it, this seemed like it was going to be another predictable runaway bride story and felt very reminiscent of a lot of the rom coms we all know and love. Instead, it ended up being a heartwarming tale of first attraction/love, amidst a journey through the beautiful city of Toronto, interlaced with tales greek mythology.
I absolutely loved this well written YA romance, finding the main two characters, Arden and Shep to be realistic and enjoying their connection developing.
The author, Jennifer Honeybourn, weaves the story through the backdrop of an adventure in Toronto and it felt as times as though I was there! Arden's tales of greek mythology were wonderfully interlaced into the story and it added so much dimension to the novel.
In summary, a gorgeous cosy read I would recommend to everyone!
From the face of it, this seemed like it was going to be another predictable runaway bride story and felt very reminiscent of a lot of the rom coms we all know and love. Instead, it ended up being a heartwarming tale of first attraction/love, amidst a journey through the beautiful city of Toronto, interlaced with tales greek mythology.
I absolutely loved this well written YA romance, finding the main two characters, Arden and Shep to be realistic and enjoying their connection developing.
The author, Jennifer Honeybourn, weaves the story through the backdrop of an adventure in Toronto and it felt as times as though I was there! Arden's tales of greek mythology were wonderfully interlaced into the story and it added so much dimension to the novel.
In summary, a gorgeous cosy read I would recommend to everyone!
October 19, 2025
You will not regret picking up this contemporary YA closed-door romance. With lovable and relatable characters and a sweet slow burn brewing, Happily Never After had me laughing, cringing, and crying alongside main character Arden. As a fellow child of (multiple) divorces, I absolutely enjoyed how much I related to both Arden and her older sister, Laurel, especially in the ways that they’ve internalized their experience. You would not believe how highlighted my copy is just from relatable lines alone and feeling so seen in that way is one of the reasons I fell in love with this story.
Fast-paced, full of bittersweet moments, and characters that you truly can’t help but love, Happily Never After is a great choice for anyone looking for a new uplifting romcom to read.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Fast-paced, full of bittersweet moments, and characters that you truly can’t help but love, Happily Never After is a great choice for anyone looking for a new uplifting romcom to read.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 20, 2025
Après un discours catastrophique et désastreux au dîner de répétition du mariage de sa petite sœur dans le quel elle évoquait, entre autre, le divorce de leurs parents, Arden ne peut que culpabiliser lorsqu’elle découvre que la mariée a disparu en laissant une note de rupture le lendemain matin. Aidée du frère du marié, Shep, Arden va écumer la ville à la recherche de sa soeur pour la convaincre de ne pas s’enfuir et de se marier.
J’ai passé un agréable moment avec les personnages, l’histoire est prenante et on s’attache à Arden et Shep, qui apprennent à se connaître au travers de l’histoire de leur frère et sœur respectif. J’ai apprécié le fait qu’on découvre également les mariés au fur et à mesure que Arden et Shep se rendent dans les lieux importants de leur couple.
Arden et sa maladresse ont un côté touchant. Sa dévotion envers sa soeur, malgré la distance et le fait qu’elle ne la connaisse plus tant que ça, font chaud au coeur. Quant à Shep, il a tout de l’homme idéal, il est gentil, attentionné, prévenant, loyal. Ils forment tous deux un duo surprenant mais qui fonctionne.
Je découvre cette autrice avec ce roman et j’ai rapidement été emportée par sa plume et par l’histoire. Le seul point négatif serait que ça devenait un peu redondant au fil des lieux que les personnages visitent sans retrouver Laurel. J’aurais voulu des rebondissements plus surprenants. J’ai néanmoins passé un bon moment avec cette romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
J’ai passé un agréable moment avec les personnages, l’histoire est prenante et on s’attache à Arden et Shep, qui apprennent à se connaître au travers de l’histoire de leur frère et sœur respectif. J’ai apprécié le fait qu’on découvre également les mariés au fur et à mesure que Arden et Shep se rendent dans les lieux importants de leur couple.
Arden et sa maladresse ont un côté touchant. Sa dévotion envers sa soeur, malgré la distance et le fait qu’elle ne la connaisse plus tant que ça, font chaud au coeur. Quant à Shep, il a tout de l’homme idéal, il est gentil, attentionné, prévenant, loyal. Ils forment tous deux un duo surprenant mais qui fonctionne.
Je découvre cette autrice avec ce roman et j’ai rapidement été emportée par sa plume et par l’histoire. Le seul point négatif serait que ça devenait un peu redondant au fil des lieux que les personnages visitent sans retrouver Laurel. J’aurais voulu des rebondissements plus surprenants. J’ai néanmoins passé un bon moment avec cette romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
September 10, 2025From the very first page, I was hooked! This book had me smiling, feeling giddy, and even wishing I were young again, going on a journey like this myself. The story is a reminder of how fast life moves and how easily we can lose sight of what truly matters—especially the people closest to us. I loved how the author captured the complicated relationship between the sisters, though I did feel the ending was a little rushed. Still, the detailed descriptions of Canada were so vivid and beautiful that I now dream of experiencing it myself one day.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 13, 2025
Arden bigger sister getting married and she must give a speech as the maid of honor at the welcome dinner . Arden doesn't believe in real love because of her own parents marriage and their divorce . So when she gives her speech is not very happy but negative . The next morning when she is goes to find her sister at her hotel room she discovers a note that she tells the groom that she can't marry him . Arden with the help of the grooms little brother Shep start to looking everywhere to find the missing bride . Will they be able to save the wedding ?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 4, 2025
Rating: 5/5
Just read it.. ✨
It's too good to miss out or be kept in your TBR stack
Genre: Romance, Runaway Bride, Forbidden Love
Highlight:
+Character development
+Character description
+FL POV
+Happily ever after (Although the title is never) 😂
My experience: The plot is intriguing and keeps you hooked till the end. Its characters are written so realistically, I mean you see the FL portraying so many experiences that we all go through in our daily lives, and then the critical analysis of self. I mean the author literally conveyed it so beautifully that it's hard to not like...
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Just read it.. ✨
It's too good to miss out or be kept in your TBR stack
Genre: Romance, Runaway Bride, Forbidden Love
Highlight:
+Character development
+Character description
+FL POV
+Happily ever after (Although the title is never) 😂
My experience: The plot is intriguing and keeps you hooked till the end. Its characters are written so realistically, I mean you see the FL portraying so many experiences that we all go through in our daily lives, and then the critical analysis of self. I mean the author literally conveyed it so beautifully that it's hard to not like...
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 5, 2025
Happily Never After is a lovely mix of romance and light adventure. It’s an easy, quick read that kept me engaged from start to finish.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed following the characters through their emotional ups and downs — from not fully understanding what true love is to realizing its real meaning. The story felt heartfelt and genuine.
I’m usually not a fan of open endings, but in this case, I actually loved it. No matter what happens next, the story leaves you with a positive and hopeful feeling.
It’s definitely one of those books I’d be happy to read again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed following the characters through their emotional ups and downs — from not fully understanding what true love is to realizing its real meaning. The story felt heartfelt and genuine.
I’m usually not a fan of open endings, but in this case, I actually loved it. No matter what happens next, the story leaves you with a positive and hopeful feeling.
It’s definitely one of those books I’d be happy to read again.
November 2, 2025
I read an excerpt of this book which included three chapters and I'm hooked. I'm ready for the actual book. It's a sweet start showing the stressfulness of planning a wedding and making speeches. The characters are described well and have personality and quirks which is cool. Some typos were found and the description of Shep could be better.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 15, 2025
Arden and Shep soon became dear to me. I liked the way they worked together. I felt bad for Arden because she was so cynical. I totally understood why she was though. I think Shep was perfect for her and they balanced each other out. This was my first read by this author but I will find more she has written more. I would recommend this book to others who enjoy this genre.
September 18, 2025
After being a thriller book fan for so long, was looking for a book that can lighten my feelings. This book definitely made my mood weightless. I love how the story goes. I would have given it 5star but i just didn’t want it to end yet..i wanted it longer. I am now invested in the second book if there is one. 😊 i definitely would recommend Happily Never After.
October 11, 2025
This was a super cute book. I had a lot of empathy for the main character, as she ran around the city looking for her sister. It shows how a once close relationship can seemingly change with distance, but that in reality, family is always there for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2025
Happily Never After by Jennifer Honeybourn was a sweet, lighthearted read — perfect for young adults or anyone looking for a clean, non-spicy romance. It takes readers on a fun, very Canadian adventure set in Toronto, and I really enjoyed the setting. This standalone story was a nice, easy read and worked perfectly as a palate cleanser after finishing a deep fantasy series.
November 3, 2025
I enjoyed reading it. It was very common world scenario and I like that it tackles a lot of the issues people really feel in real life. The leads were really people you could relate to and admire. The supporting characters added to the depth of the story but weren't my favourites! I like how it was short and simple yet really sweet. Great read!
September 17, 2025
Super cute read, Happily Never After by Jennifer Honeybourn is such a charming, funny, and swoon-worthy read! I couldn’t help smiling the whole time, I think this read would be a perfect fit for anyone who loves romance with a playful twist
October 17, 2025
I enjoyed reading this fun rom com that was perfectly paced. This rom com has heart, some humor, and the right amount of chaos. It’s a quick read and reminds me of books written by Emily Henry and Christina Lauren.
(I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
(I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
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