What do you think?
Rate this book
Los Lobos #3
Daughters of the Bride
With Joy, Love and a Little Trepidation, Courtney, Sienna and Rachel Invite You to the Most Emotional Wedding of the Year… Their Mother's
Courtney
~ The Misfit ~
As the awkward one, Courtney Watson may not be as together as her sisters, but she excels at one thing—keeping secrets, including her white-hot affair with a sexy music producer. Planning Mom's wedding exposes her startling hidden life, changing her family's view of her—and how she views herself—forever.
Sienna
~ The Free Spirit ~
When Sienna's boyfriend proposes—in front of her mom and sisters, for crying out loud—he takes her by surprise. She already has two broken engagements under her belt. Should she say "I do" even if she's not sure she does?
Rachel
~ The Cynic ~
Rachel thought love would last forever…right up until her divorce. As Mom's wedding day draws near and her ex begs for a second chance, she's forced to acknowledge some uncomfortable truths about why her marriage failed, and decide if she'll let pride stand in the way of her own happily-ever-after.
Courtney
~ The Misfit ~
As the awkward one, Courtney Watson may not be as together as her sisters, but she excels at one thing—keeping secrets, including her white-hot affair with a sexy music producer. Planning Mom's wedding exposes her startling hidden life, changing her family's view of her—and how she views herself—forever.
Sienna
~ The Free Spirit ~
When Sienna's boyfriend proposes—in front of her mom and sisters, for crying out loud—he takes her by surprise. She already has two broken engagements under her belt. Should she say "I do" even if she's not sure she does?
Rachel
~ The Cynic ~
Rachel thought love would last forever…right up until her divorce. As Mom's wedding day draws near and her ex begs for a second chance, she's forced to acknowledge some uncomfortable truths about why her marriage failed, and decide if she'll let pride stand in the way of her own happily-ever-after.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published July 12, 2016
1353 people are currently reading
5219 people want to read
About the author
Susan Mallery
869 books15.5k followers#1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery writes heartwarming and humorous novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship, romance. She's best known for putting nuanced characters into emotionally complex, real-life situations with twists that surprise readers to laughter. Because Susan is passionate about animal welfare, pets play a big role in her books. Beloved by millions of readers worldwide, her books have been translated into 28 languages.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 843 reviews
May 9, 2023
2,5 Sterne
Ich bin einfach kein typischer Leser solcher Romane, aber hin und wieder ist mir dann doch danach. Dieser war in Ordnung. Ich habe ein bisschen gebraucht zum Hineinfinden in die Geschichte. Mag sein, dass es auch daran lag, dass ich die zwei Vorgänger nicht gelesen habe. Ich konnte auf jeden Fall keinen wirklichen Bezug aufbauen zu den drei Schwestern, um die es hier hauptsächlich geht.
Dennoch gab es Passagen im Buch, die mir recht gut gefallen haben und auch die Idee dahinter mochte ich.
Es ist ein leichtes, eher seichtes Buch. Mich konnten die Gefühle leider nicht so wirklich erreichen, und zwischendurch war es stellenweise auch ein wenig langatmig.
Ich bin einfach kein typischer Leser solcher Romane, aber hin und wieder ist mir dann doch danach. Dieser war in Ordnung. Ich habe ein bisschen gebraucht zum Hineinfinden in die Geschichte. Mag sein, dass es auch daran lag, dass ich die zwei Vorgänger nicht gelesen habe. Ich konnte auf jeden Fall keinen wirklichen Bezug aufbauen zu den drei Schwestern, um die es hier hauptsächlich geht.
Dennoch gab es Passagen im Buch, die mir recht gut gefallen haben und auch die Idee dahinter mochte ich.
Es ist ein leichtes, eher seichtes Buch. Mich konnten die Gefühle leider nicht so wirklich erreichen, und zwischendurch war es stellenweise auch ein wenig langatmig.
March 8, 2017
If you like 'happy ever after' - this one's a gem! It has left me with a smile on my face and a genuine liking for this family. To all you who know me, this is indeed high praise coming from someone who doesn't 'do romance'.
Daughters of the Bride is not 'schmaltzy' - it is enjoyable. I even laughed out loud in several places - yes, a good look when you are sitting in a café on your own.
Next time I fancy something light and enjoyable, I will be looking at Susan Mallery first.
Daughters of the Bride is not 'schmaltzy' - it is enjoyable. I even laughed out loud in several places - yes, a good look when you are sitting in a café on your own.
Next time I fancy something light and enjoyable, I will be looking at Susan Mallery first.
May 10, 2021
random ramblings:
- I liked the storyline of all three daughters there was growth and relatability in all of them
- mother on the other hand is not my cup of tea
- I wish we get more of an epilogue because I like those future glimpses with the characters especially with Sienna
- almost a five star read
- I liked the storyline of all three daughters there was growth and relatability in all of them
- mother on the other hand is not my cup of tea
- I wish we get more of an epilogue because I like those future glimpses with the characters especially with Sienna
- almost a five star read
Read
August 13, 2016This book was a slow burner romance. It wasn’t really slow, but it was a steady build up with four different subplots converging to the middle, which was the Maggie’s wedding.
Maggie was getting married and her three daughters, Rachel, Sienna and Courtney were assisting her to execute her plans. As they worked, the reader was given insight to each daughter’s life and their “role” in the overall family dynamics. The three girls seem to fall into stereotypical characters.
The oldest Rachel was my favorite as she felt the most familiar. She was used to being in charge and had a hard time asking for help. She was currently divorced but her ex-husband has returned to the picture to resolve unfinished business.
Sienna, the middle child, was more flighty in personality. She seemed to be more concerned with outward appearances that being authentic to herself. I had a hard time with her initially.
Courtney, the youngest, was the strong woman who didn’t need love since it hurts. She was content enjoying here and now. She also struggle with measuring up to the standards set by her older sisters.
Working on this wedding allowed each of the ladies to grow individually as well as collectively. Their journey was entertaining as well as inspiring. I enjoyed the story without feeling like it was preachy. I appreciate the author for not making it overly dramatic but a journey were the characters grew from their mistakes and found inner strength to be more.
This is my first book by Susan Mallery but her writing was definitely solid. The narrative was well developed and flowed well. I didn’t have difficulty following what was going on and I felt satisfied with the ending. I look forward to trying other series by this author.
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Maggie was getting married and her three daughters, Rachel, Sienna and Courtney were assisting her to execute her plans. As they worked, the reader was given insight to each daughter’s life and their “role” in the overall family dynamics. The three girls seem to fall into stereotypical characters.
The oldest Rachel was my favorite as she felt the most familiar. She was used to being in charge and had a hard time asking for help. She was currently divorced but her ex-husband has returned to the picture to resolve unfinished business.
Sienna, the middle child, was more flighty in personality. She seemed to be more concerned with outward appearances that being authentic to herself. I had a hard time with her initially.
Courtney, the youngest, was the strong woman who didn’t need love since it hurts. She was content enjoying here and now. She also struggle with measuring up to the standards set by her older sisters.
Working on this wedding allowed each of the ladies to grow individually as well as collectively. Their journey was entertaining as well as inspiring. I enjoyed the story without feeling like it was preachy. I appreciate the author for not making it overly dramatic but a journey were the characters grew from their mistakes and found inner strength to be more.
This is my first book by Susan Mallery but her writing was definitely solid. The narrative was well developed and flowed well. I didn’t have difficulty following what was going on and I felt satisfied with the ending. I look forward to trying other series by this author.
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2016
A special thank you to HQN and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
From the stunning front cover and buzz, Susan Mallery delivers DAUGHTERS OF THE BRIDE, with lots of drama and sizzle— from bees, secrets, love, sisters, relationship, steamy sex, rock stars, family, bravery, wedding plans, wit, and yummy recipes. Get ready for the hottest bridal season!
The daughters of a woman soon to be married help with wedding plans while confronting the truths about a hidden affair, a proposal, and a failed marriage.
Set in seaside community of Los Lobos, California, Maggie Watson is getting again almost 24 years after being widowed. With her first wedding her mom made all the decision. This time around, Maggie is determined to get the wedding she dreamed of when she was a teenager.
She now has all these wedding ideas that she never got to do, the first time around, and she’s going to do them now. It doesn’t matter that the powder blue tuxedo is forty years out of style. She also wants Cosmos (like Sex and the City) and the more “pink”, the better. Pink and blue was a big thing back then.
(OMG my first husband, 1970 me--two days out of high school, he in college--- wore the powder blue coat tux, and the honeymoon blue Ford Falcon car to match)! Showing my age here.
When their mother started dating Neil, none of the daughters thought much about it. They were different. He won her over with his kind heart and honest love.
However, what about dates for the wedding?
Nearly twenty-four years before, when Sienna and the sisters had lost their father, and Maggie widowed, the family had been thrown into chaos. A lack of life insurance, Maggie’s limited income and three little girls to support had left the young mother struggling. Joyce moved them in the hotel.
Meet the daughters: Rachel, Sienna, and Courtney are sisters, and each is so different.
• Rachel, hairdresser is recently divorced and trying to raise her 11-year-old son. She is doing it alone. Except for the linen closet at Los Lobos Hotel. (Ex-Husband, firefighter Greg)
• Sienna is a commitment-phobe who gets engaged often but finds it more difficult to stay engaged. Works for nonprofit that assists women who are escaping domestic violence. Why does she accept marriage proposals?
• Courtney, maid/concierge at Los Lobos Hotel. The youngest, has long felt like the black sheep of the family. She is keeping the biggest secret. Her mom wants her to have more ambition. Why was she keeping a secret? There is much to her than appears.
As each sister is forced to confront their past, they have to decide if they want to take a chance on love, while seeking a happy ending. The strong bonds of mother and daughters. I liked the mom's story, since in the age group.
As always, Susan is a pro , - (four books a year-a rock star), she knows contemporary women of all ages, romance, chicklit, and their vast complexities.
Win Your Dream Dress
JDCMustReadBooks
From the stunning front cover and buzz, Susan Mallery delivers DAUGHTERS OF THE BRIDE, with lots of drama and sizzle— from bees, secrets, love, sisters, relationship, steamy sex, rock stars, family, bravery, wedding plans, wit, and yummy recipes. Get ready for the hottest bridal season!
The daughters of a woman soon to be married help with wedding plans while confronting the truths about a hidden affair, a proposal, and a failed marriage.
Set in seaside community of Los Lobos, California, Maggie Watson is getting again almost 24 years after being widowed. With her first wedding her mom made all the decision. This time around, Maggie is determined to get the wedding she dreamed of when she was a teenager.
She now has all these wedding ideas that she never got to do, the first time around, and she’s going to do them now. It doesn’t matter that the powder blue tuxedo is forty years out of style. She also wants Cosmos (like Sex and the City) and the more “pink”, the better. Pink and blue was a big thing back then.
(OMG my first husband, 1970 me--two days out of high school, he in college--- wore the powder blue coat tux, and the honeymoon blue Ford Falcon car to match)! Showing my age here.
When their mother started dating Neil, none of the daughters thought much about it. They were different. He won her over with his kind heart and honest love.
However, what about dates for the wedding?
Nearly twenty-four years before, when Sienna and the sisters had lost their father, and Maggie widowed, the family had been thrown into chaos. A lack of life insurance, Maggie’s limited income and three little girls to support had left the young mother struggling. Joyce moved them in the hotel.
Meet the daughters: Rachel, Sienna, and Courtney are sisters, and each is so different.
• Rachel, hairdresser is recently divorced and trying to raise her 11-year-old son. She is doing it alone. Except for the linen closet at Los Lobos Hotel. (Ex-Husband, firefighter Greg)
• Sienna is a commitment-phobe who gets engaged often but finds it more difficult to stay engaged. Works for nonprofit that assists women who are escaping domestic violence. Why does she accept marriage proposals?
• Courtney, maid/concierge at Los Lobos Hotel. The youngest, has long felt like the black sheep of the family. She is keeping the biggest secret. Her mom wants her to have more ambition. Why was she keeping a secret? There is much to her than appears.
As each sister is forced to confront their past, they have to decide if they want to take a chance on love, while seeking a happy ending. The strong bonds of mother and daughters. I liked the mom's story, since in the age group.
As always, Susan is a pro , - (four books a year-a rock star), she knows contemporary women of all ages, romance, chicklit, and their vast complexities.
Win Your Dream Dress
JDCMustReadBooks
July 15, 2016
3.5 stars
I thought this was a little different than most of the other things I've read by Susan Mallery. I enjoyed it, but it was heavy on the angst? Not really angst, but it had a sad or angry feel to it for a while.
Courtney, Rachel and Sienna lost their dad when they were little. Their mom did the best she could to take care of them but they lost everything. It effected each daughter differently. Rachel, being oldest felt she had to shoulder responsibility on her own while Courtney, being the youngest, got pushed to the side and ignored and learned that loving someone meant you got hurt.
I loved Courtney and Quinn's romance. I loved even more Rachel and Greg trying to reconnect. And Sienna...well, her story was interesting and that's all I'll say so I don't ruin it LOL I wasn't so much a fan of their mom, Maggie.
This wasn't my favorite by Susan Mallery, but it was still a good read :)
*thanks to RockStar Lit for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review*
I thought this was a little different than most of the other things I've read by Susan Mallery. I enjoyed it, but it was heavy on the angst? Not really angst, but it had a sad or angry feel to it for a while.
Courtney, Rachel and Sienna lost their dad when they were little. Their mom did the best she could to take care of them but they lost everything. It effected each daughter differently. Rachel, being oldest felt she had to shoulder responsibility on her own while Courtney, being the youngest, got pushed to the side and ignored and learned that loving someone meant you got hurt.
I loved Courtney and Quinn's romance. I loved even more Rachel and Greg trying to reconnect. And Sienna...well, her story was interesting and that's all I'll say so I don't ruin it LOL I wasn't so much a fan of their mom, Maggie.
This wasn't my favorite by Susan Mallery, but it was still a good read :)
*thanks to RockStar Lit for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review*
July 1, 2016
ARC Review: Daughters of the Bride by Susan Mallery
Daughters of the Bride is meant to be a classic. With each novel I read I fall deeper in love with Ms. Mallery's characters and her narrative style. She not only imparts sage advice, but creates stories that are a joy to experience. Daughters of the Bride is a story told with tenderness and nostalgia about the bonds of family. Devotion and understanding are essential to the dynamic of family BUT learning how to love enough to let go is one of the most important decisions a person can make.
With the help of surrogate mother Joyce, Sienna, Courtney and Rachel through self-examination discover the strength of love, forgiveness and healing. With a little bit of romance and a great deal of heart Susan Mallery has created an emotional masterpiece.
Daughters of the Bride is meant to be a classic. With each novel I read I fall deeper in love with Ms. Mallery's characters and her narrative style. She not only imparts sage advice, but creates stories that are a joy to experience. Daughters of the Bride is a story told with tenderness and nostalgia about the bonds of family. Devotion and understanding are essential to the dynamic of family BUT learning how to love enough to let go is one of the most important decisions a person can make.
With the help of surrogate mother Joyce, Sienna, Courtney and Rachel through self-examination discover the strength of love, forgiveness and healing. With a little bit of romance and a great deal of heart Susan Mallery has created an emotional masterpiece.
January 24, 2018
I am always amazed when I love a “romance” so much, but great writing is great writing, no matter the subject or the genre.
Three sisters, each with their own distinct personality, each harboring their own secret.
The writing is fabulous and their world was so easy to visualize. I loved so much of the verbal banter between Courtney and Quinn. I laughed out loud when Rachel was ‘cramping’ in the kitchen. Come on Sienna. Listen to your instincts. They are speaking loud and clear.
Even with a predictable story, Susan Mallery can weave a story with some heat and bite, that had me laughing, smiling, oohing and aahing.
She wasn’t sure what was more eye catching – the convertible with the top down, the handsome man driving it, or the blonde poodle sitting next to him in the passenger seat.
Basically, he was catnip and she just wanted to purr and rub all over him.
I had seen Daughter of the Bridge by Susan Mallery on another blog and mentioned that I don’t think I had read any of her work before. Then, surprise, surprise, I get the beautiful signed hardcover with a gorgeous bookmark arriving at my door. No review asked for, but I try to review all the physical books I receive, so no request necessary.
At the end of the book are discussion questions, perfect for your book club, and some “sweet” recipes in honor of the Drunken Red Nosed Honeybee.
This is one of those books I feel could be on everyone’s reading list.
See more at fundinmental
Three sisters, each with their own distinct personality, each harboring their own secret.
The writing is fabulous and their world was so easy to visualize. I loved so much of the verbal banter between Courtney and Quinn. I laughed out loud when Rachel was ‘cramping’ in the kitchen. Come on Sienna. Listen to your instincts. They are speaking loud and clear.
Even with a predictable story, Susan Mallery can weave a story with some heat and bite, that had me laughing, smiling, oohing and aahing.
She wasn’t sure what was more eye catching – the convertible with the top down, the handsome man driving it, or the blonde poodle sitting next to him in the passenger seat.
Basically, he was catnip and she just wanted to purr and rub all over him.
I had seen Daughter of the Bridge by Susan Mallery on another blog and mentioned that I don’t think I had read any of her work before. Then, surprise, surprise, I get the beautiful signed hardcover with a gorgeous bookmark arriving at my door. No review asked for, but I try to review all the physical books I receive, so no request necessary.
At the end of the book are discussion questions, perfect for your book club, and some “sweet” recipes in honor of the Drunken Red Nosed Honeybee.
This is one of those books I feel could be on everyone’s reading list.
See more at fundinmental
December 8, 2019
Sisters Rachel, Sierra and Courtney are preparing for their mother's wedding. Their father died when the girls were young, leaving the family desperate and in need. A close friend graciously allowed them to live in her hotel, while their mother worked hard to provide for them. But the sisters often felt neglected and ignored. Their childhood has shaped who they are now, each carrying some emotional baggage. As the wedding approaches, each of the girls is faced with romantic decisions and making peace with their pasts.
While I enjoyed the stories of Rachel, Sierra and Courtney, I found their mother to be shallow and self centered.
A sweet romance with plenty of drama.
3.5 stars.
While I enjoyed the stories of Rachel, Sierra and Courtney, I found their mother to be shallow and self centered.
A sweet romance with plenty of drama.
3.5 stars.
September 25, 2016
Full review on www.novelgossip.com
I’ve never read one of Susan Mallery’s books before though I’ve seen them everywhere. They usually seem too romancey for me, I like my romances to have more humor and fun. But when I saw Daughters of the Bride on Netgalley it caught my eye. I liked the concept of three grown women helping their mother with her wedding and I love a good story about sisters. This one was just ok for me, there wasn’t enough substance for me to really enjoy it.
Maggie is the mother and at first I assumed that she would have a larger presence in the story, but I’m really glad she didn’t. Her husband died when they were young and left her in a bad way financially. While her story is sad, she wasn’t a very good mother to the girls, especially Courtney. On top of that, she’s a total bridezilla which is just never a good look for anyone. Rachel is the oldest and has been divorced for two years. Her character was alright but she loved to play the role of the martyr too much for my liking. Sienna is the middle child and she gets engaged to her boyfriend, David. It’s clear the two aren’t meant to be and I grew bored waiting for her to realize this. I did really like her job, she fundraises for a thrift shop that supports abused women trying to leave their awful situations. Seeing her at work brought a warmth to an otherwise cold character. My favorite hands down was Courtney. She suffered the most under her mothers neglectful manner when they were kids as she had a learning disability that was undiagnosed for far too long. Her family treats her like crap and I really wanted her to succeed to prove them wrong in thinking she’s a loser.
The love stories were all predicable and formulaic, there just wasn’t enough going on to make me enthusiastic about this book. It started off really slow too and took me awhile to even muster up a vague interest in the characters lives. Thank god for Courtney, she’s the only one who kept me reading. It was a cute enough book and if you want something really light and fluffy then this is for you. I was just too annoyed by the majority of the characters to fully immerse myself in the story.
I’ve never read one of Susan Mallery’s books before though I’ve seen them everywhere. They usually seem too romancey for me, I like my romances to have more humor and fun. But when I saw Daughters of the Bride on Netgalley it caught my eye. I liked the concept of three grown women helping their mother with her wedding and I love a good story about sisters. This one was just ok for me, there wasn’t enough substance for me to really enjoy it.
Maggie is the mother and at first I assumed that she would have a larger presence in the story, but I’m really glad she didn’t. Her husband died when they were young and left her in a bad way financially. While her story is sad, she wasn’t a very good mother to the girls, especially Courtney. On top of that, she’s a total bridezilla which is just never a good look for anyone. Rachel is the oldest and has been divorced for two years. Her character was alright but she loved to play the role of the martyr too much for my liking. Sienna is the middle child and she gets engaged to her boyfriend, David. It’s clear the two aren’t meant to be and I grew bored waiting for her to realize this. I did really like her job, she fundraises for a thrift shop that supports abused women trying to leave their awful situations. Seeing her at work brought a warmth to an otherwise cold character. My favorite hands down was Courtney. She suffered the most under her mothers neglectful manner when they were kids as she had a learning disability that was undiagnosed for far too long. Her family treats her like crap and I really wanted her to succeed to prove them wrong in thinking she’s a loser.
The love stories were all predicable and formulaic, there just wasn’t enough going on to make me enthusiastic about this book. It started off really slow too and took me awhile to even muster up a vague interest in the characters lives. Thank god for Courtney, she’s the only one who kept me reading. It was a cute enough book and if you want something really light and fluffy then this is for you. I was just too annoyed by the majority of the characters to fully immerse myself in the story.
July 17, 2016
Awww! What a great book. I may have shed a couple of tears at the end.
Highly recommended!
I love Susan Mallery!
Highly recommended!
I love Susan Mallery!
May 18, 2021
This is probably more like a 3.5 but I've been in such a stingy mood I think that another time I may rate this higher. This is a women's fiction about 3 sisters and their mom as they approach their moms wedding.
Courtney is the youngest and she's 6 feet tall and clumsy, earning her a reputation among her family for "pulling a Courtney". She has a learning disability and really slid through the cracks when her dad died and left her mother in a mess. She works at a hotel for a woman who is like a 2nd mom, Joyce, and she has a few secrets that she is keeping from her family. Her romance made me LOL multiple times and she was by far my favorite.
Sienna is the middle daughter and I liked her, but I felt like she was a little underdeveloped. She works for a women's shelter of sorts and in this book she gets engaged for the 3rd time. She's gorgeous and men are constantly falling for her and I guess she just keeps saying yes to be kind and then doesn't go through with it? I had a hard time understanding why she kept saying yes. She's engaged to a guy who is perfect on paper, but is he perfect for her?
The oldest daughter is Rachel. She is divorced and has a young son but her ex husband is still in her life. He cheated on her, but she still can't get over him. Rachel struggles with her weight and a lot of the stereotypical middle aged woman struggles and I could relate to her and enjoyed her story. However I'm not sure how I feel about her romance.
The mom is a character I could not get on board with. I didn't like her at all. I also really didn't like the family's reaction to Courtney's secret. I HATE IT when people get super angry at someone for keeping a secret that has NOTHING TO DO WITH THEM. People have a right to privacy and can choose to share whatever they want. Annoying.
Overall this was a really good book and I would like to read the rest of the series!
SPOILERS AHEAD:
Courtney's secrets are that she is dating Quinn, Joyce's grandson. She also has been going to college secretly and I think its so sad that she had to keep it secret to avoid potential criticism and I thought it was so dumb that her family was mad that she kept it a secret. She ends up being the wedding coordinator at the hotel and she and Quinn get their HEA.
Sienna breaks off her 3rd engagement and gets together with a guy that we're supposed to believe is the one. I wish we would've just not had that romance. It would've been a good opportunity to talk about how she wants some time to really think about what she wants, but we have to have everyone in a HEA I guess.
Rachel loses weight but moreso she starts taking care of herself and gets back together with her ex husband.
Courtney is the youngest and she's 6 feet tall and clumsy, earning her a reputation among her family for "pulling a Courtney". She has a learning disability and really slid through the cracks when her dad died and left her mother in a mess. She works at a hotel for a woman who is like a 2nd mom, Joyce, and she has a few secrets that she is keeping from her family. Her romance made me LOL multiple times and she was by far my favorite.
Sienna is the middle daughter and I liked her, but I felt like she was a little underdeveloped. She works for a women's shelter of sorts and in this book she gets engaged for the 3rd time. She's gorgeous and men are constantly falling for her and I guess she just keeps saying yes to be kind and then doesn't go through with it? I had a hard time understanding why she kept saying yes. She's engaged to a guy who is perfect on paper, but is he perfect for her?
The oldest daughter is Rachel. She is divorced and has a young son but her ex husband is still in her life. He cheated on her, but she still can't get over him. Rachel struggles with her weight and a lot of the stereotypical middle aged woman struggles and I could relate to her and enjoyed her story. However I'm not sure how I feel about her romance.
The mom is a character I could not get on board with. I didn't like her at all. I also really didn't like the family's reaction to Courtney's secret. I HATE IT when people get super angry at someone for keeping a secret that has NOTHING TO DO WITH THEM. People have a right to privacy and can choose to share whatever they want. Annoying.
Overall this was a really good book and I would like to read the rest of the series!
SPOILERS AHEAD:
Courtney's secrets are that she is dating Quinn, Joyce's grandson. She also has been going to college secretly and I think its so sad that she had to keep it secret to avoid potential criticism and I thought it was so dumb that her family was mad that she kept it a secret. She ends up being the wedding coordinator at the hotel and she and Quinn get their HEA.
Sienna breaks off her 3rd engagement and gets together with a guy that we're supposed to believe is the one. I wish we would've just not had that romance. It would've been a good opportunity to talk about how she wants some time to really think about what she wants, but we have to have everyone in a HEA I guess.
Rachel loses weight but moreso she starts taking care of herself and gets back together with her ex husband.
December 27, 2016
Favorite Quotes:
She was battling an extra twenty pounds and the constant fear that she was the 'before' picture, while everyone around her was an after.
You look stunning. I should hate you. The fact that I don't is a testament to my excellent character.
He confused her and excited her and challenged her. Basically he was catnip and she just wanted to purr and rub all over him.
I hate to say this, but I'm feeling better. What a nightmare. What if everything they say about exercise is true? What if I have to do it forever?
We all have secrets. It's just yours are more interesting than most.
I had a mean girl moment. It was fantastic, although she was disappointing. She didn't tell me I was ugly or that you were using me. Doesn't she watch teen movies? There's a way to do that sort of thing right.
My Review:
Daughters of the Bride was a delightful surprise and a treat - from start to finish. I did not expect to find such a beautifully packaged, well crafted, multi-layered, clever, and keenly insightful study of family dynamics. The characters were well drawn, endearing, and while deeply flawed and at times disappointingly so, they remained likable - for the most part. The writing was smart, amusing, endlessly entertaining, and totally engaging. I enjoyed each daughter although I truly favored one significantly more. Each of the three daughters carried a different personal misery, sense of failure, and secret insecurity - although they each attempted to present themselves as being unruffled and happy in their lives. Their family relationships were despairingly askew and always had been, but were now worse than ever with increased exposure to one another while planning their Bridezilla of a mother's second wedding, and no one was willing to address their herd of elephants.
The storyline was entertaining yet relevant and was comprised of characters with real-world problems. I reveled in the humorous and witty rapid-fire banter the characters engaged in, particularly Quinn and Courtney, I just adored them - individually and as a couple. I also found the premise of the book to be unique, with the bride being a mature woman of adult daughters. Wedding planning is always tricky with stress and chaos being the norm, no matter how meticulously planned, and this one was no exception to the rule.
She was battling an extra twenty pounds and the constant fear that she was the 'before' picture, while everyone around her was an after.
You look stunning. I should hate you. The fact that I don't is a testament to my excellent character.
He confused her and excited her and challenged her. Basically he was catnip and she just wanted to purr and rub all over him.
I hate to say this, but I'm feeling better. What a nightmare. What if everything they say about exercise is true? What if I have to do it forever?
We all have secrets. It's just yours are more interesting than most.
I had a mean girl moment. It was fantastic, although she was disappointing. She didn't tell me I was ugly or that you were using me. Doesn't she watch teen movies? There's a way to do that sort of thing right.
My Review:
Daughters of the Bride was a delightful surprise and a treat - from start to finish. I did not expect to find such a beautifully packaged, well crafted, multi-layered, clever, and keenly insightful study of family dynamics. The characters were well drawn, endearing, and while deeply flawed and at times disappointingly so, they remained likable - for the most part. The writing was smart, amusing, endlessly entertaining, and totally engaging. I enjoyed each daughter although I truly favored one significantly more. Each of the three daughters carried a different personal misery, sense of failure, and secret insecurity - although they each attempted to present themselves as being unruffled and happy in their lives. Their family relationships were despairingly askew and always had been, but were now worse than ever with increased exposure to one another while planning their Bridezilla of a mother's second wedding, and no one was willing to address their herd of elephants.
The storyline was entertaining yet relevant and was comprised of characters with real-world problems. I reveled in the humorous and witty rapid-fire banter the characters engaged in, particularly Quinn and Courtney, I just adored them - individually and as a couple. I also found the premise of the book to be unique, with the bride being a mature woman of adult daughters. Wedding planning is always tricky with stress and chaos being the norm, no matter how meticulously planned, and this one was no exception to the rule.
December 9, 2018
This was a really cute and fun read! I thought the bride finally getting her girlhood dream wedding was so adorable and it just made me want to go awwwwww. The only thing that really bothered be about the story was how everyone treated Courtney as inferior because she had a learning disability when really she’s ten times better than all of them put together! She was definitely my favourite part of the story, seeing her succeed and get what she wanted was so satisfying.
October 7, 2016
I went into this book with the lowest expectation possible. I'm truly surprised how much I loved it. The grear narrator of the audiobook helped too. There was humor, emotions,sadness,family dynamics ... it just sucked me in. Loved all the characters even the dogs!
March 31, 2018
Una historia muy dulce y muy bien escrita, que ha logrado atraparme y querer saber como iba a acabar la historia de cada una de las tres hermanas. La unica pega, que me hubiera gustado que el final hubiera sido mas desarrollado y ya puestos a pedir, un epilogo. Preciosa historia.
June 13, 2019
RATING: 4 STARS
2016; HQN/HarperCollins
After 24 years of being a widow, Maggie is getting married and her daughters could not be happier for their mother. Rachel, the eldest, cannot get over her ex-husband, Greg. Greg was Rachel's first and only love and broke her heart by cheating on her. They share a young son so Greg is forever in her life. After hurting her back again, Greg starts to step up. Sienna has been engaged twice and soon finds herself engaged again. She cannot say no to David as he proposes at her mother's engagement party in front of everyone. And, saying no now means another failure. Courtney, the youngest, has always been underestimated so it's no surprise she doesn't have great confidence in herself. She is trying to get her diploma in Business, while secretly coordinating her mother's wedding, and trying to have no strings fling with Quinn. Can they all find their happily ever after...or at least be in the same room without fighting...as the wedding approaches?
First...this novel is technically the third book in Mallery's Los Lobos series but other than Gracie making a very small appearance there is no real connection. I rarely say this...but this time this novel could be read as a standalone.
Second...I have been a reading sort of funk. Nothing is really agreeing with me, and Susan Wigg's Family Tree had me right turned off with the romance. And, if you read my last two personal essays you can guess romance in general might turn me off. So on my day off today I went out to the deck and read this book in one setting. It was exactly what I needed...a good book with fun characters trying to figure out the same stuff I am. I am a bit envious of the ending, but I kind of needed the HEA (Happily Ever After) today. I would recommend this book for a summer read....as August comes to an end.
***I received an eARC from EDELWEISS and NETGALLEY***
My Novelesque Blog
2016; HQN/HarperCollins
After 24 years of being a widow, Maggie is getting married and her daughters could not be happier for their mother. Rachel, the eldest, cannot get over her ex-husband, Greg. Greg was Rachel's first and only love and broke her heart by cheating on her. They share a young son so Greg is forever in her life. After hurting her back again, Greg starts to step up. Sienna has been engaged twice and soon finds herself engaged again. She cannot say no to David as he proposes at her mother's engagement party in front of everyone. And, saying no now means another failure. Courtney, the youngest, has always been underestimated so it's no surprise she doesn't have great confidence in herself. She is trying to get her diploma in Business, while secretly coordinating her mother's wedding, and trying to have no strings fling with Quinn. Can they all find their happily ever after...or at least be in the same room without fighting...as the wedding approaches?
First...this novel is technically the third book in Mallery's Los Lobos series but other than Gracie making a very small appearance there is no real connection. I rarely say this...but this time this novel could be read as a standalone.
Second...I have been a reading sort of funk. Nothing is really agreeing with me, and Susan Wigg's Family Tree had me right turned off with the romance. And, if you read my last two personal essays you can guess romance in general might turn me off. So on my day off today I went out to the deck and read this book in one setting. It was exactly what I needed...a good book with fun characters trying to figure out the same stuff I am. I am a bit envious of the ending, but I kind of needed the HEA (Happily Ever After) today. I would recommend this book for a summer read....as August comes to an end.
***I received an eARC from EDELWEISS and NETGALLEY***
My Novelesque Blog
July 2, 2017
This is a story of a mother and her grown up girls and how they react to love and loss after being raised by a mother struggling to keep things together.
The book centers on the mother's wedding, but sprinkled into the mix is the relationships of her 3 daughters. Each has a unique take on why they are the way the are.
They each have relationships that have never come to fruition or have fizzled out.
It was a well written book giving us enough information on each to like their characters and want them to succeed with their HEA.
It had some fun and sass mixed in with the emotional aspects.
4 stars
The book centers on the mother's wedding, but sprinkled into the mix is the relationships of her 3 daughters. Each has a unique take on why they are the way the are.
They each have relationships that have never come to fruition or have fizzled out.
It was a well written book giving us enough information on each to like their characters and want them to succeed with their HEA.
It had some fun and sass mixed in with the emotional aspects.
4 stars
July 24, 2022
3.5
"Daughters of the bride" is the story of the three sisters Courtney, Rachel and Sienna who are planning their mothers second wedding. Courtney feels like the loser in the family because she dropped out of high school but her family doesn't know that she is studying now. Rachel is living with her son and divorced from her husband but doesn't seem able to forget her ex her Greg. Sienna has been enganged several times and also her current boyfriend wants to get married.
I found the story of the three different women quite interesting and I felt entertained following their story. With Rachel I felt the biggest connection and she was the most likeable character to me. Courtney was also nice but I couldn't really connect with her and sometimes I couldn't understand her feelings and her way of acting. Sienna was the most distant character to me and I didn't like her behaviour several times.
The ending was really nice and it was the perfect solution for all the women.
"Daughters of the bride" is the story of the three sisters Courtney, Rachel and Sienna who are planning their mothers second wedding. Courtney feels like the loser in the family because she dropped out of high school but her family doesn't know that she is studying now. Rachel is living with her son and divorced from her husband but doesn't seem able to forget her ex her Greg. Sienna has been enganged several times and also her current boyfriend wants to get married.
I found the story of the three different women quite interesting and I felt entertained following their story. With Rachel I felt the biggest connection and she was the most likeable character to me. Courtney was also nice but I couldn't really connect with her and sometimes I couldn't understand her feelings and her way of acting. Sienna was the most distant character to me and I didn't like her behaviour several times.
The ending was really nice and it was the perfect solution for all the women.
July 23, 2016
So mom began this venture seeming a wee bit selfish and definitely didn’t like how she treated Courtney. Of all the sisters, she is the one I loved the most. She was sweet, kind, pleasant, fun and worked hard to become something and prove others wrong. I hated how she was always an afterthought to people and it is sad her view on love. Courtney meets an amazing guy in her bosses grandson and she runs when he says the l word. They had some terrific chemistry and I have to say the scene at the party where she plays the girl the exes are catty towards was hysterical. She is so centered and fun. Glad that she gets and HEA and learns that love doesn’t hurt before it was too late.
Rachel is the serious one who doesn’t think anyone can do things the right way so she never asks for help. This helped contribute to the communication issue with her ex husband who she still loves and he still loves her. Their tale was painful at times because of her attitude and how she was distant and didn’t seem to be forgiving of mistakes. So glad she learned to change and they get to fall in love in a more beautiful way.
Sienna seems to be a bit stuck up at first and how she saw Courtney didn’t win her any prizes. She seems to be put together but she is just a pile of mess like her sisters. She is like the Runaway Bride. I am glad she figured out what she wanted in the end and stood up for herself against her fiance because he was a major douchecanoe. Her story was more complicated because we didn’t get all her story as quickly as the others and she was lost for so long. She didn’t really understand herself that well. She learned more about herself as her relationship became more real and he changed for not good. She learned to begin to listen to her instincts and stand up for herself more. She also stood up for Courtney when everything hit the fan and Courtney needed understanding.
Their mom is a piece of work. She seems to come off as selfish at first. She was not the greatest mom when these three were growing up and what she did and continued to do to Courtney was wrong on so many many levels. When she realizes her flaws and mistakes she does begin to make amends and the dynamic changes.
The story was entertaining and fun. Nicely paced and character emotion driven where we learn what has these three sisters tick, their fears, their feelings and we watch them grow and become more. Watching love bloom, love be reignited and strength in oneself and belief in their instincts come about for the three sisters who couldn’t be anymore different was fun and light hearted. You will feel for Courtney and slap her upside the end near the end, hope Rachel learns to lean on others and pray Sienna finds the right guy and gains more confidence in her instincts. A wonderful beach or rainy day read or basically one to curl up in a chair and forget about the day while you smile away with this wonderfully enticing book.
Rachel is the serious one who doesn’t think anyone can do things the right way so she never asks for help. This helped contribute to the communication issue with her ex husband who she still loves and he still loves her. Their tale was painful at times because of her attitude and how she was distant and didn’t seem to be forgiving of mistakes. So glad she learned to change and they get to fall in love in a more beautiful way.
Sienna seems to be a bit stuck up at first and how she saw Courtney didn’t win her any prizes. She seems to be put together but she is just a pile of mess like her sisters. She is like the Runaway Bride. I am glad she figured out what she wanted in the end and stood up for herself against her fiance because he was a major douchecanoe. Her story was more complicated because we didn’t get all her story as quickly as the others and she was lost for so long. She didn’t really understand herself that well. She learned more about herself as her relationship became more real and he changed for not good. She learned to begin to listen to her instincts and stand up for herself more. She also stood up for Courtney when everything hit the fan and Courtney needed understanding.
Their mom is a piece of work. She seems to come off as selfish at first. She was not the greatest mom when these three were growing up and what she did and continued to do to Courtney was wrong on so many many levels. When she realizes her flaws and mistakes she does begin to make amends and the dynamic changes.
The story was entertaining and fun. Nicely paced and character emotion driven where we learn what has these three sisters tick, their fears, their feelings and we watch them grow and become more. Watching love bloom, love be reignited and strength in oneself and belief in their instincts come about for the three sisters who couldn’t be anymore different was fun and light hearted. You will feel for Courtney and slap her upside the end near the end, hope Rachel learns to lean on others and pray Sienna finds the right guy and gains more confidence in her instincts. A wonderful beach or rainy day read or basically one to curl up in a chair and forget about the day while you smile away with this wonderfully enticing book.
July 13, 2016
Daughters of the Bride isn't really just a book about a mother getting married. It's more about second chances and learning to feel worthy. In the beginning of this story, none of the sisters feel worthy enough. Through helping their mother get ready for her wedding, they all begin to work out their issues and finally realize that they all deserve happiness. For the most part, this was an enjoyable book, but in the end, I didn't love it as much as I wanted to love it.
Out of the three sisters, I liked Courtney's story the most. I really disliked the way her family treated her because they thought she was "just a maid". That repeatedly made me angry. I couldn't understand her need to keep her education secret from them. She needed to shove it in their faces. My heart broke for her because she was so deserving of love. But, I could understand her fears when it came to loving Quinn. I loved them together and I was really rooting for him to get the girl!
But when it came to the rest of the story, it fell kind of flat for me. Sienna spent the entire book engaged to a guy who clearly didn't love her for more than her looks. Everyone knew it and never outright said anything. He treated her like dirt. In the end, I was left wanting more of the story with her and Jimmy. I didn't feel like her story was finished. I also didn't care for Rachel and Greg's story. My own feelings about cheating aside, I didn't buy into them being OK in the end. Whether they were too young or she was too much of a control freak, that didn't excuse what Greg did. I would have at least liked to have them talk about counseling.
In the end, for me, I would have loved this book more if it had just been about Courtney. I felt like the other sisters slowed down the book. This is a stand alone story, but I kind of wish it was a trilogy with each sister getting their own book. I wanted more of Sienna's story. Maybe we could get a novella?
Out of the three sisters, I liked Courtney's story the most. I really disliked the way her family treated her because they thought she was "just a maid". That repeatedly made me angry. I couldn't understand her need to keep her education secret from them. She needed to shove it in their faces. My heart broke for her because she was so deserving of love. But, I could understand her fears when it came to loving Quinn. I loved them together and I was really rooting for him to get the girl!
But when it came to the rest of the story, it fell kind of flat for me. Sienna spent the entire book engaged to a guy who clearly didn't love her for more than her looks. Everyone knew it and never outright said anything. He treated her like dirt. In the end, I was left wanting more of the story with her and Jimmy. I didn't feel like her story was finished. I also didn't care for Rachel and Greg's story. My own feelings about cheating aside, I didn't buy into them being OK in the end. Whether they were too young or she was too much of a control freak, that didn't excuse what Greg did. I would have at least liked to have them talk about counseling.
In the end, for me, I would have loved this book more if it had just been about Courtney. I felt like the other sisters slowed down the book. This is a stand alone story, but I kind of wish it was a trilogy with each sister getting their own book. I wanted more of Sienna's story. Maybe we could get a novella?
July 25, 2016
I received an ARC from the author for an honest and unbiased review.
Absolutely spot on! Where to begin? I have sisters and the family dynamics are so familiar to me. Susan Mallery really captured the tension and emotions that a family of girls has with their mother. If you don’t have siblings or sisters, then you might think this story is a bit farfetched sometimes, but it is not. There wasn’t a single place in the story that I thought that things were exaggerated or embellished. You would have to live it to understand completely.
She again captured the small town atmosphere of everyone knowing everyone else’s business. In this story, Maggie, the mother, is getting married again after decades of being a widow. Her daughters are helping to plan it and have to deal with the changes and additions made on a daily basis. Each daughter has her own uniqueness to bring to the table that influences how each of them views the grand event. Sienna is the oldest, most engaged (three times) and often the bossy one. But she also can’t seem to get her own life settled either. She is quick to fall back into the defensive pattern of criticizing her youngest sister who she thinks will never amount to anything. Clumsy and very tall Courtney had some learning issues and no one thinks she can handle anything more than being a maid. The third sister Rachel is trying to make things work as a single mom when all she wants is the man she divorced for cheating but still loves.
I love the way the story winds from one sister to the other and brings in a little of the local flavor as well. You can feel the pain of the characters and for that, you will need a tissue at all times. But of course there ends up being a solution to all problems, some you will be able to guess and some that catch you by surprise. I can’t wait for more episodes of life in Los Lobos!
Absolutely spot on! Where to begin? I have sisters and the family dynamics are so familiar to me. Susan Mallery really captured the tension and emotions that a family of girls has with their mother. If you don’t have siblings or sisters, then you might think this story is a bit farfetched sometimes, but it is not. There wasn’t a single place in the story that I thought that things were exaggerated or embellished. You would have to live it to understand completely.
She again captured the small town atmosphere of everyone knowing everyone else’s business. In this story, Maggie, the mother, is getting married again after decades of being a widow. Her daughters are helping to plan it and have to deal with the changes and additions made on a daily basis. Each daughter has her own uniqueness to bring to the table that influences how each of them views the grand event. Sienna is the oldest, most engaged (three times) and often the bossy one. But she also can’t seem to get her own life settled either. She is quick to fall back into the defensive pattern of criticizing her youngest sister who she thinks will never amount to anything. Clumsy and very tall Courtney had some learning issues and no one thinks she can handle anything more than being a maid. The third sister Rachel is trying to make things work as a single mom when all she wants is the man she divorced for cheating but still loves.
I love the way the story winds from one sister to the other and brings in a little of the local flavor as well. You can feel the pain of the characters and for that, you will need a tissue at all times. But of course there ends up being a solution to all problems, some you will be able to guess and some that catch you by surprise. I can’t wait for more episodes of life in Los Lobos!
July 1, 2016
I normally love this author.
For some reason I had some real issues getting into this.
I also gave up with it, then looked on Goodreads and saw how many good reviews it had, so decided to persevere with it.
Eventually about 45% into it, it no longer became hard work to continue reading.
The sisters...at first well apart from Courtney I didn't particularly like them.
Rachel had being a martyr down to a fine art. She was passive aggressive and actually it was really annoying. I don't normally feel bad for the cheating spouse but in this I did feel sorry for Greg, it was so painfully obvious he wanted to be with her whereas she was blind to it all.
Sienna....now I thought she was a bitch lol the way she talked down to Courtney and about Courtney, because of her being a maid. Total snob and she was a total cow about it.
I felt sorry for her and felt it was obvious who she was supposed to be with. But for me it didn't mean she got to be horrible to her sister just because she was so unhappy.
Courtney - I did really like her. I felt bad for her. Her mother treated her badly when she wasn't ignoring her. The big secret, really wasn't that big a secret. It was really crappy how everyone made her accomplishments about them and upset with her for not telling them.
It was one big dis-functional family. Thankfully they all find their new loves/prince charmings at the end.
For me it just took a long time to get there.
I did end up enjoying it but if I had known how slow it was going to be in the beginning, I probably would never have started it.
It's a shame, because I really do love this author normally, this one just isn't for me.
Read and reviewed courtesy of Netgalley
For some reason I had some real issues getting into this.
I also gave up with it, then looked on Goodreads and saw how many good reviews it had, so decided to persevere with it.
Eventually about 45% into it, it no longer became hard work to continue reading.
The sisters...at first well apart from Courtney I didn't particularly like them.
Rachel had being a martyr down to a fine art. She was passive aggressive and actually it was really annoying. I don't normally feel bad for the cheating spouse but in this I did feel sorry for Greg, it was so painfully obvious he wanted to be with her whereas she was blind to it all.
Sienna....now I thought she was a bitch lol the way she talked down to Courtney and about Courtney, because of her being a maid. Total snob and she was a total cow about it.
I felt sorry for her and felt it was obvious who she was supposed to be with. But for me it didn't mean she got to be horrible to her sister just because she was so unhappy.
Courtney - I did really like her. I felt bad for her. Her mother treated her badly when she wasn't ignoring her. The big secret, really wasn't that big a secret. It was really crappy how everyone made her accomplishments about them and upset with her for not telling them.
It was one big dis-functional family. Thankfully they all find their new loves/prince charmings at the end.
For me it just took a long time to get there.
I did end up enjoying it but if I had known how slow it was going to be in the beginning, I probably would never have started it.
It's a shame, because I really do love this author normally, this one just isn't for me.
Read and reviewed courtesy of Netgalley
August 14, 2016
Daughters of the Bride is a great summer read by Susan Mallery. It holds your interest and its a light fun book to read.
Maggie has been a widow and raised her three daughters by herself while she tried (at one time failed) to keep a roof over their heads. The girls are now grown, Maggie has a successful business and she is getting married again. Her daughters will be bridesmaids and help to plan the wedding, even though Maggie has some over the top requests for the wedding. Sp the book is about Maggie's wedding but it's also about so much more -- her daughters have all had extra pressure put on them over the years and the way they view life plus their relationships with each other show the results of their younger lives. Sienna is the oldest daughter. She works at a non profit to help women who are abused. She is in a relationship with David but isn't sure that he's the 'one'. Rachel is divorced from her fireman husband but are there still feelings between them or are they just working together to raise their son? Courtney (who was my favorite of the sisters) is working as a maid at a hotel. Her family is all a little embarrassed because of her job but she is hiding a secret from them that she is almost finished with her college degree. Will she find love within her family and learn to love herself?
This was a light, fun read and I really enjoyed it.
Maggie has been a widow and raised her three daughters by herself while she tried (at one time failed) to keep a roof over their heads. The girls are now grown, Maggie has a successful business and she is getting married again. Her daughters will be bridesmaids and help to plan the wedding, even though Maggie has some over the top requests for the wedding. Sp the book is about Maggie's wedding but it's also about so much more -- her daughters have all had extra pressure put on them over the years and the way they view life plus their relationships with each other show the results of their younger lives. Sienna is the oldest daughter. She works at a non profit to help women who are abused. She is in a relationship with David but isn't sure that he's the 'one'. Rachel is divorced from her fireman husband but are there still feelings between them or are they just working together to raise their son? Courtney (who was my favorite of the sisters) is working as a maid at a hotel. Her family is all a little embarrassed because of her job but she is hiding a secret from them that she is almost finished with her college degree. Will she find love within her family and learn to love herself?
This was a light, fun read and I really enjoyed it.
July 21, 2016
What a lovely story about a mom and her three daughters. Susan Mallery writes four very different love stories in Daughters of the Bride. Awkward Courtney grows up and grows into herself even while the world isn’t watching. A certain music producer is, though, and he has no qualms about telling her. Distant Sienna seems cold until she realizes she’s surrounding herself with the wrong men. Supermom Rachel forgets who she really is until the love of her life helps her remember.
The three women help their mom plan her wedding, and through the process they begin to know and love themselves more.
Daughters of the Bride was a feel-good family story on the surface, but Mallery brought her signature spice to one of the couples’ romance. In the family relationships and in the romantic ones, love abounded.
https://randombookmuses.com/2016/07/2...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
NetGalley provided an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2016
Oh wow! I loved this book so much. In fact, when I got to the end I kept looking hoping to find more! I don't even know where to start. Three very different sisters - three compelling intertwined stories all revolving around their mother's wedding. Oh - and who makes the wedding cake? Gracie!!! If that means nothing to you, please go read her story, Falling For Gracie. Great book and you can read it now if you're still waiting for this to be released. In fact, before that read Someone Like You which also takes place in Los Lobos.
Also making an appearance and finding his HEA is the mysterious Quinn from The Girls of Mischief Bay!
Despite all the links, this book absolutely stands alone and is a great read! Susan Mallery knows how to write stories that suck you in. I did not want to put the book down.
Many thanks to the author who provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Also making an appearance and finding his HEA is the mysterious Quinn from The Girls of Mischief Bay!
Despite all the links, this book absolutely stands alone and is a great read! Susan Mallery knows how to write stories that suck you in. I did not want to put the book down.
Many thanks to the author who provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2016
This is a super sweet story of 3 sisters preparing for their mother's wedding while dealing with romance issues of their own. This was such a sweet story! It was a slow beginning, I wanted to stop reading in the beginning but at about 38% of the way through, I fell in love. Courtney, the youngest sister is someone I would totally want to know in real life. The dynamics of their family were so honest and so real that I enjoyed every one of them. Without giving away too much, I found this a refreshing little romance novel that wasn't what you would typically expect from that genre. Easily read in one sitting, I look forward to more and would love to see these characters pop up again down the road.
Thank you to Netgalley & Harlequin for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley & Harlequin for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2016
Although this is a book encompassing all three sisters, only one of the sisters gets the fullest happily ever after (descriptive sex). The other two sisters get a varying degree of HEA. Yes they all get the guy, but their stories aren’t as fully realized as Courtney’s is. Their stories are as interesting, but not as gripping since Sienna and Rachel don’t have the familial issues as Courtney does.
Yes this is a book about secrets –and a second time bride who in my opinion, was a bridezilla. The secrets make this a frustrating read and the slow start to this book added to that frustration. I very nearly didn’t give this book enough time to grab me –luckily I did.
ARC supplied by publisher
Yes this is a book about secrets –and a second time bride who in my opinion, was a bridezilla. The secrets make this a frustrating read and the slow start to this book added to that frustration. I very nearly didn’t give this book enough time to grab me –luckily I did.
ARC supplied by publisher
December 31, 2016
I expected this to be a really light and fluffy read, but it ended up being a lot more serious than I thought it would be. I mean, it's not super serious, there's still cute and fluffy moments, but it's not really as "Chick Lit" as I thought it would be. This is not a bad thing at all, though. I really enjoyed this book and thought the character development was really well done. I loved how each of the sisters were affected differently by the events of their childhood and how it still impacted their lives decades later. I really liked Courtney and Rachel right off the bat. I really didn't care for Sienna for the longest time, but by the end of the book I was rooting for her. I shipped all the romances. I loved the humor. I definitely recommend this one to Contemporary fans!
April 12, 2019
Another comfort read from Susan Mallery.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 843 reviews