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Always the Planner, Never the Bride
An anonymous night. A secret wedding. A woman she was never supposed to see again.
Pippa Nelson is an up-and-coming event planner who specializes in making other people’s happiest days look effortless. Trained as an English butler in a family steeped in royal service, discretion is practically in her blood. So when she’s hired to plan a top-secret wedding between an A-list actor and the daughter of an American political dynasty, she knows exactly what she’s signing on for.
Until the mother of the bride walks in.
Lieutenant Governor Abigail Thorndike is cynical about true love, puppies, and everything else that turns normal people to mush. Trapped in a political marriage of convenience, she permits herself exactly two kinds of strangers she’ll never see again and friends who want nothing from her.
Pippa Nelson is neither.
Five years ago, Pippa was a one-night stand with no last name. Now she’s planning Abigail’s daughter’s wedding at the family compound on Martha’s Vineyard.
In other words, she’s entirely off limits.
At least until three spoiled Pomeranians conspire to throw them together, and an inconvenient amount of chemistry makes it impossible to keep apart.
Keeping their affair secret is vital to protecting Abigail’s political future. But Pippa has been someone’s secret before. And she swore she’d never be one again.
Can a woman who’s spent her life planning other people’s happy endings ever get one of her own?
Don’t miss this steamy age-gap, ice-queen, second-chance sapphic romance featuring a forbidden affair, political intrigue, and three very spoiled Pomeranians.
Pippa Nelson is an up-and-coming event planner who specializes in making other people’s happiest days look effortless. Trained as an English butler in a family steeped in royal service, discretion is practically in her blood. So when she’s hired to plan a top-secret wedding between an A-list actor and the daughter of an American political dynasty, she knows exactly what she’s signing on for.
Until the mother of the bride walks in.
Lieutenant Governor Abigail Thorndike is cynical about true love, puppies, and everything else that turns normal people to mush. Trapped in a political marriage of convenience, she permits herself exactly two kinds of strangers she’ll never see again and friends who want nothing from her.
Pippa Nelson is neither.
Five years ago, Pippa was a one-night stand with no last name. Now she’s planning Abigail’s daughter’s wedding at the family compound on Martha’s Vineyard.
In other words, she’s entirely off limits.
At least until three spoiled Pomeranians conspire to throw them together, and an inconvenient amount of chemistry makes it impossible to keep apart.
Keeping their affair secret is vital to protecting Abigail’s political future. But Pippa has been someone’s secret before. And she swore she’d never be one again.
Can a woman who’s spent her life planning other people’s happy endings ever get one of her own?
Don’t miss this steamy age-gap, ice-queen, second-chance sapphic romance featuring a forbidden affair, political intrigue, and three very spoiled Pomeranians.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 8, 2026
About the author
T.B. Markinson
77 books1,227 followersT. B. Markinson is an American writer, living in England. When she isn't writing, she’s traveling the world, watching sports on the telly, visiting pubs in England, or taking the dog for a walk. Not necessarily in that order.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
September 20, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Another delightful romance by TB and Miranda.
What a surprise when Pippa, the wedding planner, is hired to plan a high-profile wedding—and the bride’s mother turns out to be Abby, her unforgettable one-night stand from five years ago. And the attraction is still there. How are the two supposed to work together for months without ending up in bed together? After all, Pippa’s work ethic and reputation forbid her from getting involved in anything personal—let alone intimate—with her client. And Abbigail, the politician—still married and also politically ambitious—can’t, or doesn’t dare, come out.
At first glance, it’s an impossible situation, but TB Markinson and Miranda McLeod once again find a way to make the impossible possible. And they do it all with plenty of charm and humor. A difficult situation for a wedding planner—but a fun one for us readers—unfolds at the beginning of the story when Pippa charms Abby into helping her out. The comedy of the situation was hilarious.
Pippa and Abby are both seasoned and successful women with completely different family and career backgrounds. Sparks fly from the very first moment and ultimately lead to a steamy one-night stand that neither of them could ever forget. Their journey was filled with funny moments, roadblocks of all kinds, political pressure, family expectations, paparazzi and celebrities, and three little four-legged troublemakers with hilarious names. There are steamy moments, self-imposed rules that are impossible to follow, and hot scenes between Pippa and Abby. I really liked Pippa from the very beginning. Her organizational talent was impressive and her personality was wonderful. And I loved Abby's transformation from a successful politician—yet still a dutiful daughter—into a self-determined woman who finally begins to forge her own happiness and refuses to give up on any of her dreams, no matter how many obstacles stand in her way.
All the supporting characters, along with their actions and reactions, contribute greatly to the entertainment value and are important to the story. Especially Abby’s mother and daughter brought a lot of fun but also tension. And we’re reunited with one of the main characters from an earlier book, which is always an extra cherry on top.
Enjoy the romance and shenanigans of Abby and Pippa’s journey to a happy ending.
ARC provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review
Another delightful romance by TB and Miranda.
What a surprise when Pippa, the wedding planner, is hired to plan a high-profile wedding—and the bride’s mother turns out to be Abby, her unforgettable one-night stand from five years ago. And the attraction is still there. How are the two supposed to work together for months without ending up in bed together? After all, Pippa’s work ethic and reputation forbid her from getting involved in anything personal—let alone intimate—with her client. And Abbigail, the politician—still married and also politically ambitious—can’t, or doesn’t dare, come out.
At first glance, it’s an impossible situation, but TB Markinson and Miranda McLeod once again find a way to make the impossible possible. And they do it all with plenty of charm and humor. A difficult situation for a wedding planner—but a fun one for us readers—unfolds at the beginning of the story when Pippa charms Abby into helping her out. The comedy of the situation was hilarious.
Pippa and Abby are both seasoned and successful women with completely different family and career backgrounds. Sparks fly from the very first moment and ultimately lead to a steamy one-night stand that neither of them could ever forget. Their journey was filled with funny moments, roadblocks of all kinds, political pressure, family expectations, paparazzi and celebrities, and three little four-legged troublemakers with hilarious names. There are steamy moments, self-imposed rules that are impossible to follow, and hot scenes between Pippa and Abby. I really liked Pippa from the very beginning. Her organizational talent was impressive and her personality was wonderful. And I loved Abby's transformation from a successful politician—yet still a dutiful daughter—into a self-determined woman who finally begins to forge her own happiness and refuses to give up on any of her dreams, no matter how many obstacles stand in her way.
All the supporting characters, along with their actions and reactions, contribute greatly to the entertainment value and are important to the story. Especially Abby’s mother and daughter brought a lot of fun but also tension. And we’re reunited with one of the main characters from an earlier book, which is always an extra cherry on top.
Enjoy the romance and shenanigans of Abby and Pippa’s journey to a happy ending.
ARC provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review
September 21, 2026
This is a one of my favorite books of this year. I loved the characters. Both were exceptionally competent women, and I enjoyed seeing them work their way through a tricky situation. There was a lot of dramatic tension, angst, and witty dialog. Thoroughly entertaining. Loved the dogs.
September 10, 2026
I have a confession. I do not get particularly behind mains that are intimate right at the start of the book. Somehow this pair of writers have managed to lay out the connection between the mains and made the first intimate scene, actually intimate. All within the first 10%!
Many smiles and sweet tension but the plot point at 50%...... lol'd literally. Novel and great!
I also cannot see how the barrier of closet and expectation can be resolved, but I am sooo here for it!
The bottle filled with sand and shells and beech nuts might be the most romantic gift in any book I have read yet❤️!
For all I have smiled at many well turned lines in this book I cannot believe how tense I am as the plot strands come together and I fear turn out to be the wiring for a plot bomb.
Dressed to impress at 87% and I have such a stupid grin on my face!
Well colour me delighted!
I tend to fall in insta love with M&M’s books, this one, to describe my relationship with it in the style of genres, felt like a meet cute then a slow burn romance and ended up totally and hopelessly in love by the end. The book is not slow at all, but my love built, like a proper slow burn! As always, amusing lines that have me laughing out loud literally, or just smiling and sometimes just stopping at a truth bomb.
Many smiles and sweet tension but the plot point at 50%...... lol'd literally. Novel and great!
I also cannot see how the barrier of closet and expectation can be resolved, but I am sooo here for it!
The bottle filled with sand and shells and beech nuts might be the most romantic gift in any book I have read yet❤️!
For all I have smiled at many well turned lines in this book I cannot believe how tense I am as the plot strands come together and I fear turn out to be the wiring for a plot bomb.
Dressed to impress at 87% and I have such a stupid grin on my face!
Well colour me delighted!
I tend to fall in insta love with M&M’s books, this one, to describe my relationship with it in the style of genres, felt like a meet cute then a slow burn romance and ended up totally and hopelessly in love by the end. The book is not slow at all, but my love built, like a proper slow burn! As always, amusing lines that have me laughing out loud literally, or just smiling and sometimes just stopping at a truth bomb.
September 29, 2026
thing stays a secret for long
I loved the story and all the characters including the 3 Pomeranians. I enjoyed the interaction between Abigail and Pippa when they first met. I loved the age gap between them and their unmistakable chemistry. There is plenty of heat with the romance. Abigail finally was able to stand up and be her true self and chose love.
I loved the story and all the characters including the 3 Pomeranians. I enjoyed the interaction between Abigail and Pippa when they first met. I loved the age gap between them and their unmistakable chemistry. There is plenty of heat with the romance. Abigail finally was able to stand up and be her true self and chose love.
September 29, 2026
This was such a delightful read. The banter was hilarious, the MCs were absolutely charming, and I was honestly surprised by how little angst there was considering Abigail’s job. I had such a fun time reading this!
September 9, 2026
Laugh your way thru another bingeable page turning co-write (4.5 stars)
I always look forward to reading TB and Miranda co-writes because regardless of the story's location or the industry(ies) it orbits around, I know I'm going to laugh a lot and probably have a dopey smile on my face for large parts of it. Always the Planner, Never the Bride did just that from the first chapter and, like their other books, I lost track of time while reading and mostly stopped a reading session when the e-reader battery was nearing zero percent. Pippa and Abigail have chemistry from their first meeting so it's easy to root for them and root against the people, attitudes and other circumstances that keep them apart. The entire cast of characters and their antics are easy to imagine and distinct so it's easy to keep track of who's who. There's tons of funny bits peppered thru the story so be sure to time any beverage drinking to avoid having any of it go anywhere other than down the hatch; I laughed out loud more than once and chuckled more times than I can count which is very on brand for a TB and Miranda co-write in my experience. There's drama and angst with some high stakes involved in both Pippa's and Abby's careers and loads of steamy bits when these two have a moment alone, so reading this in public where someone can read over your shoulder is not advised; the numerous dog shenanigans in the plot arc however are totally fine to read anywhere. There is a cameo by a character from another of their books that's a nice Easter egg for those who catch it (no spoilers on who it is or the book they're featured in) and a Hallmark worthy climax that might make you tear up or coo. My only issue with this book is that finishing it means waiting for the next one to come out; it's tough at times to be patient for their next book. Their books are totally bingeable and the kind you can re-read over and over so they're definitely worth owning. I recommend all of their cowrites and that you also check out their solo writings for entertaining reads that will warm your heart, tickle your funny bone and maybe boil your blood a teeny tiny bit at times where injustice is involved. Also sign up for their newsletters (links and other info are at the end of the book) to get the real life moments that inspire elements in their stories and a heads up when they have another book in the works; the newsletters themselves are frequently hilarious and if you like cats, there are pet photos and antics often included with the human pics and stories.
I always look forward to reading TB and Miranda co-writes because regardless of the story's location or the industry(ies) it orbits around, I know I'm going to laugh a lot and probably have a dopey smile on my face for large parts of it. Always the Planner, Never the Bride did just that from the first chapter and, like their other books, I lost track of time while reading and mostly stopped a reading session when the e-reader battery was nearing zero percent. Pippa and Abigail have chemistry from their first meeting so it's easy to root for them and root against the people, attitudes and other circumstances that keep them apart. The entire cast of characters and their antics are easy to imagine and distinct so it's easy to keep track of who's who. There's tons of funny bits peppered thru the story so be sure to time any beverage drinking to avoid having any of it go anywhere other than down the hatch; I laughed out loud more than once and chuckled more times than I can count which is very on brand for a TB and Miranda co-write in my experience. There's drama and angst with some high stakes involved in both Pippa's and Abby's careers and loads of steamy bits when these two have a moment alone, so reading this in public where someone can read over your shoulder is not advised; the numerous dog shenanigans in the plot arc however are totally fine to read anywhere. There is a cameo by a character from another of their books that's a nice Easter egg for those who catch it (no spoilers on who it is or the book they're featured in) and a Hallmark worthy climax that might make you tear up or coo. My only issue with this book is that finishing it means waiting for the next one to come out; it's tough at times to be patient for their next book. Their books are totally bingeable and the kind you can re-read over and over so they're definitely worth owning. I recommend all of their cowrites and that you also check out their solo writings for entertaining reads that will warm your heart, tickle your funny bone and maybe boil your blood a teeny tiny bit at times where injustice is involved. Also sign up for their newsletters (links and other info are at the end of the book) to get the real life moments that inspire elements in their stories and a heads up when they have another book in the works; the newsletters themselves are frequently hilarious and if you like cats, there are pet photos and antics often included with the human pics and stories.
September 21, 2026
Always the Planner, Never the Bride by T.B. Markinson & Miranda MacLeod
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pippa Nelson makes her living creating other people’s perfect days. So, when she lands the dream assignment planning a secret wedding for an A-list actor and the daughter of a political dynasty, it’s a massive opportunity for her growing company. What she doesn’t plan for is the bride’s mother, Lt. Governor Abigail Thorndike. Five years ago, she and “Abby” shared one incredible night, and apparently five years apart did nothing to diminish their attraction.
Pippa and Abigail are successful, driven women, each professionally unstoppable but emotionally immobilized. Their connection is undeniable; their chemistry makes “off-limits” look like a suggestion. But can they overcome the fears and obstacles standing between them? And do they even want to?
Abigail has a political career, a family legacy, and a sham marriage to maintain. Happiness and falling for a beautiful Brit were never part of the plan. Pippa, meanwhile, is building her own company in an industry where reputation is everything. Having been burned before, she refuses to become someone’s secret again or hide who she is.
The nuanced, forthright, sexy, and intelligent interactions between these women pulled me right into their story. I loved watching them wrestle with ambition, family expectations, and the very human need to be loved, seen, and live authentically. Seeing them finally embrace the happiness they’d spent so much of their lives putting aside left me with that warm feeling that lingers long after the story ends.
PS: Loved the Not Today Satan shout-out and update!
#TBMarkinson, #Miranda MacLeod, #Women, #Weddings, #LisaB_ReviewsBooks, #Politics, #Celebrities, #Secrets, #Books, #BookReview, #SapphicBooks, # SapphicLit #SapphicBookReview, #IHeartSapphic, #LGBTQbooks, #SapphicRomance, #SecondChance, #WLWlovestories, #WLW, #HEA, #SapphicFiction, #QueerRomance, WLWfiction, #ARC, #AdvanceReaderCopy, #Amazon, #BookFunnel, #BookBub, #5Stars, #Goodreads, #bookstagram, #Instagram,
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pippa Nelson makes her living creating other people’s perfect days. So, when she lands the dream assignment planning a secret wedding for an A-list actor and the daughter of a political dynasty, it’s a massive opportunity for her growing company. What she doesn’t plan for is the bride’s mother, Lt. Governor Abigail Thorndike. Five years ago, she and “Abby” shared one incredible night, and apparently five years apart did nothing to diminish their attraction.
Pippa and Abigail are successful, driven women, each professionally unstoppable but emotionally immobilized. Their connection is undeniable; their chemistry makes “off-limits” look like a suggestion. But can they overcome the fears and obstacles standing between them? And do they even want to?
Abigail has a political career, a family legacy, and a sham marriage to maintain. Happiness and falling for a beautiful Brit were never part of the plan. Pippa, meanwhile, is building her own company in an industry where reputation is everything. Having been burned before, she refuses to become someone’s secret again or hide who she is.
The nuanced, forthright, sexy, and intelligent interactions between these women pulled me right into their story. I loved watching them wrestle with ambition, family expectations, and the very human need to be loved, seen, and live authentically. Seeing them finally embrace the happiness they’d spent so much of their lives putting aside left me with that warm feeling that lingers long after the story ends.
PS: Loved the Not Today Satan shout-out and update!
#TBMarkinson, #Miranda MacLeod, #Women, #Weddings, #LisaB_ReviewsBooks, #Politics, #Celebrities, #Secrets, #Books, #BookReview, #SapphicBooks, # SapphicLit #SapphicBookReview, #IHeartSapphic, #LGBTQbooks, #SapphicRomance, #SecondChance, #WLWlovestories, #WLW, #HEA, #SapphicFiction, #QueerRomance, WLWfiction, #ARC, #AdvanceReaderCopy, #Amazon, #BookFunnel, #BookBub, #5Stars, #Goodreads, #bookstagram, #Instagram,
October 4, 2026
4.25 stars
September 21, 2026
A masterpiece from two fabulous writers
This one grabbed my attention from the very beginning! It starts out intriguing and interesting, and then we get a time jump. I have to admit, these authors seem to love their time jumps lately, and I’m definitely enjoying what they do with them! 😁
Another encounter after years apart, and I absolutely loved watching the story and the relationship develop. There’s a catch, of course, and that’s where things get wonderfully complicated. It adds just the right layer of intrigue and makes you want to keep turning those pages to see how everything will unfold.
There’s something almost forbidden about their love, but the story is so engaging that I completely forgot about everything else around me. I was fully immersed in their world. The development was amazing, the characters pulled me in completely, and before I knew it, I was wishing I had more pages left.
This has officially become one of my favorites. ❤️
It’s such a dynamic story, with a little bit of everything: romance at its heart, plenty of fun, intrigue, action, just a touch of drama, and so much goodness packed into every page. The balance is wonderful, and there was never a dull moment.
And now I have a problem… I didn’t want it to end! I became so invested in these characters that saying goodbye to them was genuinely hard. I’m going to miss them all.
This feels like a masterpiece from two fabulous writers. The story is engaging, entertaining, heartfelt, and beautifully developed from beginning to end.
And that ending!❤️Beautiful and hilarious. I absolutely loved it. But now I NEED to know what they named Baroness Big Ears! 😂 (I love this one, by the way). So, dear authors, I’m officially requesting a sequel, or at the very least, a short story. I need answers!
What a fantastic read. I loved this book completely, and I’m so happy I got to experience this story.
I received an ARC for an honest review
This one grabbed my attention from the very beginning! It starts out intriguing and interesting, and then we get a time jump. I have to admit, these authors seem to love their time jumps lately, and I’m definitely enjoying what they do with them! 😁
Another encounter after years apart, and I absolutely loved watching the story and the relationship develop. There’s a catch, of course, and that’s where things get wonderfully complicated. It adds just the right layer of intrigue and makes you want to keep turning those pages to see how everything will unfold.
There’s something almost forbidden about their love, but the story is so engaging that I completely forgot about everything else around me. I was fully immersed in their world. The development was amazing, the characters pulled me in completely, and before I knew it, I was wishing I had more pages left.
This has officially become one of my favorites. ❤️
It’s such a dynamic story, with a little bit of everything: romance at its heart, plenty of fun, intrigue, action, just a touch of drama, and so much goodness packed into every page. The balance is wonderful, and there was never a dull moment.
And now I have a problem… I didn’t want it to end! I became so invested in these characters that saying goodbye to them was genuinely hard. I’m going to miss them all.
This feels like a masterpiece from two fabulous writers. The story is engaging, entertaining, heartfelt, and beautifully developed from beginning to end.
And that ending!❤️Beautiful and hilarious. I absolutely loved it. But now I NEED to know what they named Baroness Big Ears! 😂 (I love this one, by the way). So, dear authors, I’m officially requesting a sequel, or at the very least, a short story. I need answers!
What a fantastic read. I loved this book completely, and I’m so happy I got to experience this story.
I received an ARC for an honest review
October 6, 2026
NoComment (AU)
I’ve read somewhere that TB is Chief Writer of Sex Scenes whilst The Author of the Funny Bits, Miranda, who was in rare form with this latest… what an amazing collaboration, once again!
The Funny Bits had my sides aching at times and truthfully, the Sex Scenes left me… hhmmm, well let’s not elaborate, but the main characters were so loveable, so beautifully written and pulled so hard on my heart-strings. Yes, there were the inevitable moments that most couples endure, but throughout this, the strength of their love shone through, leaving me in no doubt they would get to the other side as staunchly committed to each other as ever.
In fact both authors deserve ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ each, so this is definitely a ten star review.
I read “Always the Planner, Never the Bride” so fast, then was overcome with remorse because I’d finished this wonderful book too quickly. Aside from re-reading some of this pairing’s past gems, to stave off any potential withdrawals, as usual,the wait for another Markinson / MacLeod ten star offering is bound to feel interminable… but in the meantime, thank-you so much for Always the Planner, Never the Bride.
I hope everyone reading this, who takes a chance, is left in complete raptures, as was I!
Again, TB and Miranda, thank-you and congratulations on another absolute ripper!
I’ve read somewhere that TB is Chief Writer of Sex Scenes whilst The Author of the Funny Bits, Miranda, who was in rare form with this latest… what an amazing collaboration, once again!
The Funny Bits had my sides aching at times and truthfully, the Sex Scenes left me… hhmmm, well let’s not elaborate, but the main characters were so loveable, so beautifully written and pulled so hard on my heart-strings. Yes, there were the inevitable moments that most couples endure, but throughout this, the strength of their love shone through, leaving me in no doubt they would get to the other side as staunchly committed to each other as ever.
In fact both authors deserve ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ each, so this is definitely a ten star review.
I read “Always the Planner, Never the Bride” so fast, then was overcome with remorse because I’d finished this wonderful book too quickly. Aside from re-reading some of this pairing’s past gems, to stave off any potential withdrawals, as usual,the wait for another Markinson / MacLeod ten star offering is bound to feel interminable… but in the meantime, thank-you so much for Always the Planner, Never the Bride.
I hope everyone reading this, who takes a chance, is left in complete raptures, as was I!
Again, TB and Miranda, thank-you and congratulations on another absolute ripper!
September 20, 2026
The Dynamic Duo Gives Us A Humorous View Of A Difficult Situation!
T.B. & Miranda has come through again with an extremely difficult relationship that keeps occurring despite the odds against it. Then to add a humorous view with three opinionated Pomeranians, kept the story from becoming too serious. A wedding planner Pippa, is getting a chance of a life time to plan a wedding for a A list movie star. Everything kept secret NDA signed before meeting everyone involved but it turns out that the bride to be is just as important in a completely different way. Upon realizing the level of commitment this wedding was going to need which is Pippa’s specialty, then the next shock comes in the fact that the brides mother who is the Lieutenant Governor is the same woman she picked up in a bar and shared an evening that was the best of her life five years ago and never forgotten. Adding in the Brides father is the Lieutenant Governors husband.
This book takes you through the prep of a high security wedding a planner must go through not only on who the bride and groom to be are but add the bride’s mother, grandmother and father and you will find that you are reading something really special.
T.B. & Miranda has come through again with an extremely difficult relationship that keeps occurring despite the odds against it. Then to add a humorous view with three opinionated Pomeranians, kept the story from becoming too serious. A wedding planner Pippa, is getting a chance of a life time to plan a wedding for a A list movie star. Everything kept secret NDA signed before meeting everyone involved but it turns out that the bride to be is just as important in a completely different way. Upon realizing the level of commitment this wedding was going to need which is Pippa’s specialty, then the next shock comes in the fact that the brides mother who is the Lieutenant Governor is the same woman she picked up in a bar and shared an evening that was the best of her life five years ago and never forgotten. Adding in the Brides father is the Lieutenant Governors husband.
This book takes you through the prep of a high security wedding a planner must go through not only on who the bride and groom to be are but add the bride’s mother, grandmother and father and you will find that you are reading something really special.
September 24, 2026
This was a fun story with a crazily improbable one night stand as its beginning, where Pippa Nelson, the wedding planner, manages to convince a random woman to act as a bridesmaid for this gigantic lavish wedding where Pippa is responsible for making it all happen. Pippa than meets Abby yet again later that night at a lesbian bar and they have one steamy night of passion between them. Neither can forget the other but since they don't even know each other's names, it simply slides into their memories as an unforgettable evening.
Five years later, Pippa is enlisted to act as the wedding planner for the daughter of the Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts and one of Hollywood's hottest single young men. She thinks she can do this, as crazy as it sounds, until the mother of the bride walks into the planning session, late, due to official duties.
That mother is Abigail Thorndike, the very same Abby that bailed Pippa out in that wedding five years ago and the very same Abby that Pippa took to bed.
They both vow to remain professional through all this but chemistry has a way of interfering with vows of chastity. Add in three adorable Pomeranians, who seem to be actually conspiring to put these two women together repeatedly, and you have the makings of a love story, except, of course, that Abigail is technically married.
And worse, her party's likely Presidential nominee wants Abby as his Vice-President, a move that puts Abby within reach of the White House, a life long goal of hers. But to do that, she has to choose - Pippa or her political future.
I recommend this book.
Five years later, Pippa is enlisted to act as the wedding planner for the daughter of the Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts and one of Hollywood's hottest single young men. She thinks she can do this, as crazy as it sounds, until the mother of the bride walks into the planning session, late, due to official duties.
That mother is Abigail Thorndike, the very same Abby that bailed Pippa out in that wedding five years ago and the very same Abby that Pippa took to bed.
They both vow to remain professional through all this but chemistry has a way of interfering with vows of chastity. Add in three adorable Pomeranians, who seem to be actually conspiring to put these two women together repeatedly, and you have the makings of a love story, except, of course, that Abigail is technically married.
And worse, her party's likely Presidential nominee wants Abby as his Vice-President, a move that puts Abby within reach of the White House, a life long goal of hers. But to do that, she has to choose - Pippa or her political future.
I recommend this book.
September 11, 2026
I have a real fondness for sapphic fiction featuring politicians…maybe there’s an attraction at all the deception that has to pedalled to survive in such a cutthroat world! For example, I have loved books featuring politicians by Tracey Richardson, Haley Cass, Jen Lyon and the delightful ’Parties in Congress’ by Colette Moody (I’m sure I’ve forgotten others I’ve loved too!)
So, this foray into US politics, at a time when being gay still isn’t acceptable, was right up my street! Two delightful MC’s try (and fail again and again) to stay away from each other when ‘coming out’ seems like political suicide. I luckily received an ARC of this and it’s very possibly my favourite (to date) of all the books these two skilful author’s have written together. A solid four star read and only not five due to it lacking in gut wrenching emotion/tears. But if you’re here for happiness, then this is perfect!
So, this foray into US politics, at a time when being gay still isn’t acceptable, was right up my street! Two delightful MC’s try (and fail again and again) to stay away from each other when ‘coming out’ seems like political suicide. I luckily received an ARC of this and it’s very possibly my favourite (to date) of all the books these two skilful author’s have written together. A solid four star read and only not five due to it lacking in gut wrenching emotion/tears. But if you’re here for happiness, then this is perfect!
September 15, 2026
Fantastic
This is absolutely delightful, but that comes as no surprise. This dynamic duo always delivers. Their characters are full-bodied--personality-wise. You love them, hate them, cheer for and against them. You laugh, you cry, you cringe. This latest book is no exception.
I wouldn't call Abigail an ice queen--she's more ice adjacent--the real ice burg is her mother. Brrr. Still, she is ambitious and needs help letting people into the inner sanctum. Enter Pippa, some spice, and the mischievous, hilariously named Pomeranians and you can't wait to see just how things traverse.
Just when you think you know how the characters will react, they surprise you, even the indomitable Mother Thorndike. The ancillary characters are just as interesting as the protagonists and aren't just filler to move a plot point. Add a cameo appearance by Satan and you have a winner. Again.
T.B and Miranda are the best duo around! I can't wait for the next book.
This is absolutely delightful, but that comes as no surprise. This dynamic duo always delivers. Their characters are full-bodied--personality-wise. You love them, hate them, cheer for and against them. You laugh, you cry, you cringe. This latest book is no exception.
I wouldn't call Abigail an ice queen--she's more ice adjacent--the real ice burg is her mother. Brrr. Still, she is ambitious and needs help letting people into the inner sanctum. Enter Pippa, some spice, and the mischievous, hilariously named Pomeranians and you can't wait to see just how things traverse.
Just when you think you know how the characters will react, they surprise you, even the indomitable Mother Thorndike. The ancillary characters are just as interesting as the protagonists and aren't just filler to move a plot point. Add a cameo appearance by Satan and you have a winner. Again.
T.B and Miranda are the best duo around! I can't wait for the next book.
October 5, 2026
an enjoyable read by these two authors.... they certainly can write a very good storyline that keeps you hooked from the first page till the end
pippa is an events co Ordinator and has seen many things.... but losing a bridesmaid to a sickness bug wasnt on the cards that day.... but low and behold the gods have answered her prayers and at the venue she stops a woman and persuades her to take part in a wedding with bribery .... and it worked the woman stepped in and saved the day
only they never exchanged names...
not even when they hooked up the next night at a bar....
5 years later pippa has been invited to maybe co ordinate a wedding but who for she has no idea.... until she signs the nda but her world doesnt implode until the mother of the bride walks in
and that when the nightmare begins...
what a fun read.... i finished this book in a day i really couldnt put it down.... i was routing for pippa
cant wait to read another book by these two again
pippa is an events co Ordinator and has seen many things.... but losing a bridesmaid to a sickness bug wasnt on the cards that day.... but low and behold the gods have answered her prayers and at the venue she stops a woman and persuades her to take part in a wedding with bribery .... and it worked the woman stepped in and saved the day
only they never exchanged names...
not even when they hooked up the next night at a bar....
5 years later pippa has been invited to maybe co ordinate a wedding but who for she has no idea.... until she signs the nda but her world doesnt implode until the mother of the bride walks in
and that when the nightmare begins...
what a fun read.... i finished this book in a day i really couldnt put it down.... i was routing for pippa
cant wait to read another book by these two again
September 25, 2026
Weddings, Intrigue, and Adorable Pomeranians - What could be better?
I really loved this book. It had everything. Basic angst of event planning, with the highest stakes of A-List weddings, political intrigue, and an amazing cast of characters, including the three puppies.
The authors do an excellent job of developing their characters in such a way that they’re your friends by the end of the story.
This book has everything I laughed. I got teary and I had to turn pages quickly to find out what was happening next.
Can’t wait for the next collaboration between these authors, true artists!
I really loved this book. It had everything. Basic angst of event planning, with the highest stakes of A-List weddings, political intrigue, and an amazing cast of characters, including the three puppies.
The authors do an excellent job of developing their characters in such a way that they’re your friends by the end of the story.
This book has everything I laughed. I got teary and I had to turn pages quickly to find out what was happening next.
Can’t wait for the next collaboration between these authors, true artists!
September 26, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. I always enjoy these authors but this may be my favorite from them. It’s unique, clever and heartwarming, with scorching chemistry and witty banter between Pippa and Abby. But on top of that, there were so many sweet, swoon-worthy moments. I particularly enjoyed the multidimensional side characters and laugh out loud moments.
The only odd thing was that there was no physical descriptions of the main characters, or many others. I generally like SOME details to imagine them. I imagine it was deliberate, given the past books from these authors. But it can’t take away from the 5+ stars this one deserves.
The only odd thing was that there was no physical descriptions of the main characters, or many others. I generally like SOME details to imagine them. I imagine it was deliberate, given the past books from these authors. But it can’t take away from the 5+ stars this one deserves.
October 30, 2026
Another fun romance story of the great T.B. and Miranda combo.
The story is engaging, entertaining, heartfelt, and beautifully developed from beginning to end. I loved both MC's and their interactions. Great secondary characters (daughter who is the bride, grandmother of the bride aka the manipulating mother, and OK the 3 Pommers - I'm not a dog person).
As always the humor was outstanding. The first one that made me laugh out loud:
“And now this Pippa woman has shown up on your doorstep, claiming her baby is yours. Tale as old as time. I’d demand a DNA test.”
Loved it, highly recommended read.
The story is engaging, entertaining, heartfelt, and beautifully developed from beginning to end. I loved both MC's and their interactions. Great secondary characters (daughter who is the bride, grandmother of the bride aka the manipulating mother, and OK the 3 Pommers - I'm not a dog person).
As always the humor was outstanding. The first one that made me laugh out loud:
“And now this Pippa woman has shown up on your doorstep, claiming her baby is yours. Tale as old as time. I’d demand a DNA test.”
Loved it, highly recommended read.
November 5, 2026
First, the bad news. Another read-in-one-sitting cookie-cutter story about good-looking high fliers who want for nothing. An entirely predictable plot that runs on rails and makes sure to stop at every cliché along the way. I had this review written before I was even halfway through and was sufficiently confident of the outcome not to have to rewrite one word.*
Now the good news. Written with verve and flair. Partnered with good turns of phrase, excellent metaphors and decent jokes. Any story that makes me laugh out loud is already ahead in my estimation. Very enjoyable.
* Rather lost impetus at the end. Not by much but ended with a whimper rather than a bang (innuendo not intended)
Now the good news. Written with verve and flair. Partnered with good turns of phrase, excellent metaphors and decent jokes. Any story that makes me laugh out loud is already ahead in my estimation. Very enjoyable.
* Rather lost impetus at the end. Not by much but ended with a whimper rather than a bang (innuendo not intended)
September 17, 2026
choosing happiness..
Cute story, great characters, thankfully HEA was worried for a bit.
Abby met Pippa when a bridesmaid got sick and the bride was about to drop the groom’s brother because the line couldn’t be uneven. On her way to tell the groom Pippa saw a woman about the same measurements as the sick bridesmaid and approached her about filling in. Abby agreed for a free meal and $100. Years later Pippa would find out the woman was the lieutenant governor.
Think you’ll enjoy this book I loved to story line, the humor and the family dynamics.
Cute story, great characters, thankfully HEA was worried for a bit.
Abby met Pippa when a bridesmaid got sick and the bride was about to drop the groom’s brother because the line couldn’t be uneven. On her way to tell the groom Pippa saw a woman about the same measurements as the sick bridesmaid and approached her about filling in. Abby agreed for a free meal and $100. Years later Pippa would find out the woman was the lieutenant governor.
Think you’ll enjoy this book I loved to story line, the humor and the family dynamics.
September 23, 2026
Another great book by Miranda & TB.
I laughed a lot (as usual), and I fell in love with the couple from the very beginning -- which is not usual for me. Their first encounter was intriguing (and HOT!), the way they met again years later was surprising, and their connection grew along the story in a way that made me cheer for them like I rarely do. There were sooooo many cute moments in this book, and the ending was just PERFECT.
This is the fourth book I read from them, and it's by far my favorite one to date.
I laughed a lot (as usual), and I fell in love with the couple from the very beginning -- which is not usual for me. Their first encounter was intriguing (and HOT!), the way they met again years later was surprising, and their connection grew along the story in a way that made me cheer for them like I rarely do. There were sooooo many cute moments in this book, and the ending was just PERFECT.
This is the fourth book I read from them, and it's by far my favorite one to date.
September 9, 2026
I just love the collaboration between these two authors, their books are always good and never disappoint. This one is a gem on so many levels. Pippa plans weddings, Abigail is the mother of the bride. They never should have met before, but they did, on a one night stand years ago. What follows is a great read with humour, forbidden romance and depth, good main & secondary characters and even dogs! Would highly recommend.
October 19, 2026
That was a very enjoyable read.
Pippa is a wedding planner in a pinch when she first meets Abby. Abby is instantly intrigued by the British wedding planner who roped her into a strangers wedding. When they meet in a bar after that wedding and hook up, is a coincidence. But when they meet again 5 years later and the spark is still there, but under stranger circumstances it kind of feels like fate pushing doesn't it.
Pippa is a wedding planner in a pinch when she first meets Abby. Abby is instantly intrigued by the British wedding planner who roped her into a strangers wedding. When they meet in a bar after that wedding and hook up, is a coincidence. But when they meet again 5 years later and the spark is still there, but under stranger circumstances it kind of feels like fate pushing doesn't it.
September 9, 2026
As always these two authors don't disappoint, your attention gets grabbed from the first chapter with an interesting meet cute and the evolving storyline. Pippa and Abigail's unfolding story is full of laughter and growth. The supporting characters gives some depth to the story and the absolutely spoiled Pomeranians just steals your heart.
September 10, 2026
Love a T.B/Miranda co-write. They always inject a good amount of humour into their stories. Abigail and Pippa's journey was a delightful read. A meddling/ controlling mother and 3 Pomeranians that live up to their crazy names add to the fun of arranging a wedding that must remain a secret. How do they think these dog names and stories up.
September 11, 2026
This was a fun, fast read for me. I enjoyed the easy evolution of Abby and Pippa's relationship, even given the backdrop of American politics in play. The three Pomeranians make a fun bit of chaos for them and I loved how Abby's daughter plays into the story throughout. Overall I found it a cozy little book, good to curl up with and forget the world for a bit.
September 30, 2026
What a fun story! As I read each chapter, I was waiting for the 'other shoe to drop'! I thought that Pippa and Abigail would be found out and Abby's political career would be over. Thankfully it was not and it all worked out in the end. TB and Miranda have written another winning story. I can't wait to read what they put out next!
September 12, 2026
Don’t Miss This One
Markinson and MacLeod do it again. Always the Planner, Never the Bride is romantic, funny and it has a trio of adorable dogs to make the story complete. Highly recommended.
Markinson and MacLeod do it again. Always the Planner, Never the Bride is romantic, funny and it has a trio of adorable dogs to make the story complete. Highly recommended.
September 12, 2026
Wow phenomenal story, I loved the main characters their chemistry shined throughout their one liners had me laughing out loud their connection formed with so much depth making you feel apart of their life's I couldn't put it down definitely must read congratulations
September 12, 2026
This is another winner from the dynamic duo and the best is it has not one, not two, but three dogs. Three! Perfect number imo with three floofballs myself too.
Full of humour and with a great storyline this book is perfect for the coming autumn, snuggling under a blanket to read
Full of humour and with a great storyline this book is perfect for the coming autumn, snuggling under a blanket to read
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