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Spinster #3
Thirty-Four Going on Bride
Julia Dorning’s got way too much on her plate. Can she juggle it all without having a nervous breakdown? Julia Dorning is about to lose it. Between her over-the-top wedding that her sister, Anna, took upon herself to create, and the under-staffed popular bakery that she runs, she can barely find time to breathe. All Julia ever wanted was a quaint wedding on the beach with family and friends. But now Julia has to contend with not only her sister's plans, but those of her future mother-in-law, as well. Not wanting to step on anyone's toes, especially her mother-in-law's, Julia just goes along with it. She can only take so much, though, and when her newest employee, Kate, makes things harder at the bakery, Julia has to find a way to simplify her life. Can she do it or will she end up a basket case? Find out how she does it in this hilarious conclusion to the Spinster series!
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2016
1051 people are currently reading
1066 people want to read
About the author
Becky Monson
22 books1,289 followersBy day, Becky Monson is a mother to three young children, and a wife. By night, she escapes with reading books and writing. In her debut novel, Becky uses humor and true-life experiences to bring her characters to life. She loves all things chick-lit (movies, books, etc.), and wishes she had a British accent. She has recently given up Diet Coke for the fiftieth time and is hopeful this time will last... but it probably won't.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
May 31, 2016
Thirty-Four Going on Bride
Warning: do not attempt to drink coffee (or any other beverage, for that matter) while reading this! If you do, you are guaranteed to end up wearing it! Or snorting it following a laughing fit!
Becky Monson did it again! In this latest instalment of her wonderful, funny series, Julia is preparing for her wedding with Jared. She's got the pre-wedding jitters and she's trying to get everything done before the big day, and run her bakery at the same time. Hilarity ensues! If you enjoyed Thirty-Two Going On Spinster, Thirty-Three Going On Girlfriend, and Speak Now: or Forever Hold Your Peace, you will love this one too! If you haven't read them yet, what the heck are you waiting for?!
I love, love, love this author's writing style. After a stressful or exhausting day there's nothing better than sitting down to one of her books, kicking back and indulging in one of Becky Monson's stories. It's like having a conversation with a good friend. The narration is so smooth and easy, it seems to roll right off the tongue. And it's fun!! And romantic. And clean. What's not to love??
I give this book a 5 star rating and my highest recommendation.
Warning: do not attempt to drink coffee (or any other beverage, for that matter) while reading this! If you do, you are guaranteed to end up wearing it! Or snorting it following a laughing fit!
Becky Monson did it again! In this latest instalment of her wonderful, funny series, Julia is preparing for her wedding with Jared. She's got the pre-wedding jitters and she's trying to get everything done before the big day, and run her bakery at the same time. Hilarity ensues! If you enjoyed Thirty-Two Going On Spinster, Thirty-Three Going On Girlfriend, and Speak Now: or Forever Hold Your Peace, you will love this one too! If you haven't read them yet, what the heck are you waiting for?!
I love, love, love this author's writing style. After a stressful or exhausting day there's nothing better than sitting down to one of her books, kicking back and indulging in one of Becky Monson's stories. It's like having a conversation with a good friend. The narration is so smooth and easy, it seems to roll right off the tongue. And it's fun!! And romantic. And clean. What's not to love??
I give this book a 5 star rating and my highest recommendation.
May 30, 2017
3.5 rounding up
Becky Monson is so good at writing sarcastic, dry humor. I can't tell you how often I was sniggering (I realize that isn't really a word but it fits perfectly for what I was doing. Not snickering, sniggering.) I'm telling you, it's funny stuff. I love the humor.
I've read this whole series now and it's been an interesting adventure with Julia. It was nice to get to a happy resolution place with this series. It's been a long time coming for Julia.
There is frequent mild swearing in this book, which wasn't my favorite. I wish that would have been toned down a bit, but other than that, I thought this book was a ton of fun. It is the third book in this series and I would highly recommend reading them in order.
Content: frequent mild swearing, kissing, sexual relations between a married couple but nothing is described- you just know it happens.
I picked this one up on kindle unlimited.
Becky Monson is so good at writing sarcastic, dry humor. I can't tell you how often I was sniggering (I realize that isn't really a word but it fits perfectly for what I was doing. Not snickering, sniggering.) I'm telling you, it's funny stuff. I love the humor.
I've read this whole series now and it's been an interesting adventure with Julia. It was nice to get to a happy resolution place with this series. It's been a long time coming for Julia.
There is frequent mild swearing in this book, which wasn't my favorite. I wish that would have been toned down a bit, but other than that, I thought this book was a ton of fun. It is the third book in this series and I would highly recommend reading them in order.
Content: frequent mild swearing, kissing, sexual relations between a married couple but nothing is described- you just know it happens.
I picked this one up on kindle unlimited.
July 10, 2020
Thirty- Four Going on Bride is the last book in the Spinster series by Monson, and in my opinion the worst one. I have now read four of her books, with two being good and the other two being seriously bad. I don't mind that her books are clean romances, but I don't like the judgmental vibe the story gives off, and I think I will just stay away from this author now.
The book starts off with Julia who is still engaged to Jared and is struggling hard with wedding planning. Jared is no help, and her little sister Anna is taking over and goes way overboard. Julia would prefer to just elope and doesn't want a big wedding, but is too scared to say anything. She is on the edge of breaking down when her future brother-in-law starts dating Jared's ex and the bakery gets too much handle as well.
Like in the second book, Julia and Jared have NO communication. How these two are engaged is beyond me. Julia is literally afraid to voice her opinion because she thinks Jared would leave her. Sounds healthy to me..
Another issue is Julia's personality. I am not sure what happened to first book Julia, but I miss her. She was funny and sarcastic. This Julia is judgmental and prude. She blushes when her best friend talks about IUI, but laughs when she mentions her fertility issues. Because a hostile uterus sounds oh so funny?! I am just done with this series and feel a little let down by how this ended. In my opinion the first book could've wrapped up the story sufficiently.
The book starts off with Julia who is still engaged to Jared and is struggling hard with wedding planning. Jared is no help, and her little sister Anna is taking over and goes way overboard. Julia would prefer to just elope and doesn't want a big wedding, but is too scared to say anything. She is on the edge of breaking down when her future brother-in-law starts dating Jared's ex and the bakery gets too much handle as well.
Like in the second book, Julia and Jared have NO communication. How these two are engaged is beyond me. Julia is literally afraid to voice her opinion because she thinks Jared would leave her. Sounds healthy to me..
Another issue is Julia's personality. I am not sure what happened to first book Julia, but I miss her. She was funny and sarcastic. This Julia is judgmental and prude. She blushes when her best friend talks about IUI, but laughs when she mentions her fertility issues. Because a hostile uterus sounds oh so funny?! I am just done with this series and feel a little let down by how this ended. In my opinion the first book could've wrapped up the story sufficiently.
June 6, 2016
SN: if you are a woman in your Thirties PLEASE READ THESE BOOKS!!! What a refreshing outlook on love and relationships. It’s never too late to chase your dreams and find your unique self. Living in your truth will always lead you to happiness
Where do I begin!!! First, let me just say I have been waiting for this book to be released for a MONTH!! I pre-ordered it in MAY (geeked!!)Becky got the readers ready with another GREAT book “Speak Now: or Forever Hold Your Peace” (which is also about a wedding) and now she added the third book in her Julia series. First, I just want to express that I LOVE how this book is written about a regular woman. The characters/ storyline are realistic and believable which makes it easy to read. The “villainous” character is a woman in our lives that we ALL know (somehow, some way) :) . I loved that she kept her readers engaged and LAUGHING throughout this entire book! Without giving away anything else I will say I can’t wait for the “35” book in this series.
Where do I begin!!! First, let me just say I have been waiting for this book to be released for a MONTH!! I pre-ordered it in MAY (geeked!!)Becky got the readers ready with another GREAT book “Speak Now: or Forever Hold Your Peace” (which is also about a wedding) and now she added the third book in her Julia series. First, I just want to express that I LOVE how this book is written about a regular woman. The characters/ storyline are realistic and believable which makes it easy to read. The “villainous” character is a woman in our lives that we ALL know (somehow, some way) :) . I loved that she kept her readers engaged and LAUGHING throughout this entire book! Without giving away anything else I will say I can’t wait for the “35” book in this series.
December 16, 2018
And there is a happily ever after! And that brought me joy ;)! Conclusion of the series was no less entertaining than the previous books of the series. It made a light read with a happy ending that made me feel better when drifting off to a tired slumber.
June 12, 2016
Julia Dorning is running to get into shape for her upcoming wedding to Jared Moody. Her sister, Anna, is acting as her wedding planner and coach, hoping to get some pounds off Julia before the big day. Anna loves big weddings as does Jared’s mother, Bobby. Julia would prefer just to have a very simple ceremony but her vote is losing out.
Julia owns a popular bakery where her cupcakes are the best. Her helpers Patti, Debbie, and Kate all work together using their own specialties to keep the bakery running smoothly.
Julia is stressed not only with the wedding plans but now she is to be interviewed by the press about her bakery. The person interviewing her is Lisa. And who is that, you say? The evil type of “frenemy” that all of us have in our lives. Lisa used to date Jared many years ago and is now dating his brother, Mark. Lisa is jealous that she was unable to snag Jared and now she seems set on doing what she can to stick little digs in Julia. Oh good grief. Julia hates confrontations and is just trying to deal with it.
With Anna texting her every five minutes with questions and constant suggestions for “improving” her wedding, Julia is a wreck. Her good friend, Brown, is newly married and trying to get pregnant. Trying to support her and filling in for her husband for doctor’s appointments while he is away, will have you rolling on the floor.
I hope I have reeled you in now. This is the funniest book ever. I have read all of the author’s “Spinster Series” books and have laughed all the way through them. Don’t miss out on Julia. She makes Lucy Ricardo of I Love Lucy fame look dull.
This book is hilarious, sweet, and clean. It just doesn’t get any better than that. I look for even more great books by the author. She is very talented. It’s rare that I want to give a book six stars, but this is certainly one of them.
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Julia owns a popular bakery where her cupcakes are the best. Her helpers Patti, Debbie, and Kate all work together using their own specialties to keep the bakery running smoothly.
Julia is stressed not only with the wedding plans but now she is to be interviewed by the press about her bakery. The person interviewing her is Lisa. And who is that, you say? The evil type of “frenemy” that all of us have in our lives. Lisa used to date Jared many years ago and is now dating his brother, Mark. Lisa is jealous that she was unable to snag Jared and now she seems set on doing what she can to stick little digs in Julia. Oh good grief. Julia hates confrontations and is just trying to deal with it.
With Anna texting her every five minutes with questions and constant suggestions for “improving” her wedding, Julia is a wreck. Her good friend, Brown, is newly married and trying to get pregnant. Trying to support her and filling in for her husband for doctor’s appointments while he is away, will have you rolling on the floor.
I hope I have reeled you in now. This is the funniest book ever. I have read all of the author’s “Spinster Series” books and have laughed all the way through them. Don’t miss out on Julia. She makes Lucy Ricardo of I Love Lucy fame look dull.
This book is hilarious, sweet, and clean. It just doesn’t get any better than that. I look for even more great books by the author. She is very talented. It’s rare that I want to give a book six stars, but this is certainly one of them.
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2017
I haven’t read the other books in this series, but I think I’m going to after finishing this delightful story. The heroine in this book is hilarious. I loved her. She is engaged as this book starts (so obviously I missed out on her love story previously). The wedding planning, running her own bakery, and other stresses piled on her plate are starting to get to her. All she wants to do is elope, but her future husband, her sister, and mother-in-law won’t have it. So she’s stuck planning an elaborate wedding she doesn’t want and trying to keep up with everything else in her life. When she meets an ex-girlfriend of her fiance’s, life gets even worse. The girl seems out to undermine her. In a series of slapstick funny fiascos, she learns that going after her own dreams, instead of pleasing others’ expectations, might be the best thing after all. This was a pleasant surprise. It looked like a fluffy read that would be predicable and boring, but it was the opposite. It had funny twists and surprises and the heroine--Julia--is hysterical. I really liked her.
January 2, 2023
Last one?
Couldn't wait to read his book... loved the first two but this one ehh not too much. Somewhat cliche; while feeling rushed... Wish it would've had the same spark as 1 & 2. The End was cute... & although I have mixed feelings I still needed to read the book to see how the story unfolded.
Couldn't wait to read his book... loved the first two but this one ehh not too much. Somewhat cliche; while feeling rushed... Wish it would've had the same spark as 1 & 2. The End was cute... & although I have mixed feelings I still needed to read the book to see how the story unfolded.
December 2, 2018
What can I say…it’s so, so Julia!! It’s definitely my favorite book of the series. I hope Becky Monson plans to continue writing about Julia’s adventures and misadventures. I can’t say goodbye to her right now
September 16, 2019
I loved this series. I bought the first book years ago and I don’t know why it took me so long to read. This was perfect chick lit - not too sappy and over the top + Julia’s character was relatable and super funny. Didn’t want this series to end so read it super slowly! So good. Usually disappointed in chick lit but not this one.
January 23, 2017
This is an entertaining read about a 34 year-old whose wedding has basically been high-jacked by her family and the groom's. She's got enough stress in her life opening up a new bakery, but when her fiancé's ex-girlfriend appears on the scene and starts trying to cause problems with her future mother-in-law, it raises her anxiety level to the point she eventually faints and hits her head on the podium while receiving a business award. She knows that not having the big wedding will make everyone mad, so she decides if she and the groom elope for the real wedding, and then repeat it for the family in the more formal setting, she will be less worried about messing up the big day. As you can imagine, this creates some new issues. There are several pretty funny scenes, and the ending is satisfying.
June 7, 2016
I adored this book.I have been a fan of Becky's (and Julia's) from the beginning, and I loved this book! I love how she's developed as an author and this book is her best piece so far! Becky's humor shines through the entire book and her characters are so alive here. Unlike some, I don't devour books I love in one sitting - I drag it out because I don't want the book-joy to go away. However, I couldn't help it - I finished this book in no time at all and now I have to go back and read them all again. It's wonderful to have an author write a book that is genuinely funny without being mean-spirited, and even more refreshing to read chick-lit that is clean enough to recommend to anyone.
I cannot wait for Becky Monson to come out with more!!
I received a copy of this for an honest review, but, like another reviewer, I will happily purchase this book in support of Becky and another job well done!! And if you act now, her first book, 32 Going on Spinster is free! A series of 3 great books for less than a value meal at a fast food restaurant? Um, yes, please, because after I finish these, I still feel good about myself!!
I cannot wait for Becky Monson to come out with more!!
I received a copy of this for an honest review, but, like another reviewer, I will happily purchase this book in support of Becky and another job well done!! And if you act now, her first book, 32 Going on Spinster is free! A series of 3 great books for less than a value meal at a fast food restaurant? Um, yes, please, because after I finish these, I still feel good about myself!!
February 9, 2017
Silly girl story
Julia, the main character, has no backbone and no brains. She only sees flaws in most of the people in her life. She allows other people to push her around and rarely stands up for herself to the point that she ends up in the hospital. I kept hoping the characters would develop some meaningful qualities, but it never happens. The story seems to go from one pratfall to another. Not my cup of tea.
Julia, the main character, has no backbone and no brains. She only sees flaws in most of the people in her life. She allows other people to push her around and rarely stands up for herself to the point that she ends up in the hospital. I kept hoping the characters would develop some meaningful qualities, but it never happens. The story seems to go from one pratfall to another. Not my cup of tea.
January 15, 2017
Unfortunately, my love for this series began years ago and it seemed to have blinded me towards the main character's spineless nature. It is a very cute story with some heartwarming parts featured. A fitting conclusion to the series but I was constantly dumbfounded with Julia's decisions and the minuscule character growth. Julia's friends and family making HER wedding about themselves. Aggravating beyond belief, although not her fault. Julia need to be on the edge of a breakdown and spoiler alert: (suffer a concussion) to actually speak up for herself and grow a backbone! And that still wasn't enough incentive for others to back off. The book gave a weird combination of pity and anger. It was an easy read, and odd to say it was a read that I desperately needed to back into the swing of things.
January 23, 2017
Very funny story...
As a comedy, this was quite a funny story. As a romance, it was a zero. Virtually no romance, cover to cover. Or certainly none of what I consider a romance to be. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, and get to their break-up. Not a desirable expectation in a romance.
While there is indeed a hea, it felt so flat, so unromantic, so...blah, it just left me wanting more. The H and h may have had great chemistry, in the writers mind. But, for me, it didn't translate into the story that way. I was surprised at the ending, and it was funny. So, if you're not looking for romance in your romantic comedy, maybe this will do. It just left me cold, and wanting more.
As a comedy, this was quite a funny story. As a romance, it was a zero. Virtually no romance, cover to cover. Or certainly none of what I consider a romance to be. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, and get to their break-up. Not a desirable expectation in a romance.
While there is indeed a hea, it felt so flat, so unromantic, so...blah, it just left me wanting more. The H and h may have had great chemistry, in the writers mind. But, for me, it didn't translate into the story that way. I was surprised at the ending, and it was funny. So, if you're not looking for romance in your romantic comedy, maybe this will do. It just left me cold, and wanting more.
July 23, 2016
Loved it! My favorite of the series.
December 20, 2016
Fantastic ending
I loved every bit of this story. From beginning to end it held my attention. So funny, quirky, and cute with a large side of sexy. I wish there was more!!
I loved every bit of this story. From beginning to end it held my attention. So funny, quirky, and cute with a large side of sexy. I wish there was more!!
February 1, 2017
This book was sold to me as hilarious. I may have laughed once. I found Julie annoying. Basically this book outlines her stress and how poorly she handles it.
April 17, 2019
AudioBook Review:
Stars: Overall: 2 Narration 3 Story 2
Not having read any of the earlier books in this series, but finding the synopsis delightfully entertaining and promised something lighthearted and laugh worthy, I jumped right in. The heroine, Julia, is due to be married soon – and if that’s not enough, she’s also trying to find time to sort out all those little ‘issues’ that pop up with her bakery. And with a wedding that she didn’t plan (her sister did), both families vying for their own ‘say’ in her special day, and when the ex-girlfriend shows up (because you can’t have enough piling on for keystone-cop-like issues to occur. You guessed it – too much going on, not enough development of relationships or character, no backbone whatsoever for Julia, and no let off from her over the top family. It was exhausting just getting through the first hour of this audio – and I had over 5 to go.
Frequent breaks as there was so much action as to slow my interest to a crawl, it took a concussion (seriously!) for Julia to find ANY backbone – and, quite frankly, it was too little far too late. There was little romance, and even less progression with characters and their relationships – I was overwhelmed with the stress juggle that Julia lived with – never quite dealing with anything but simply moving it from one hand to another for ‘dealing with’ another time – if ever. I never saw, even with some backbone growth, any real development for Julia – I arrived in the story with Welcome stamped on her forehead, and we left with the same feeling. It’s sad – but this story felt young and unrealistic, missing an editor to sharpen the points and remove the candy floss fluff that simply piled on without any real foundation.
Narration for this story is provided by Ann Marie Gideon and her performance was solid. She embodied Julia and managed to provide enough distinction to give me clear understanding that another character was speaking – but I was so uninterested and disengaged from the actual words being said I truly can’t expound on her performance of the story – certainly I would listen to another title from this narrator.
I think, if you are a fan of ‘young and immature’ thirty somethings and a story that is based (and gleans humor) from the negative – this is a series and book you’d enjoy. Fans of earlier titles in the series may appreciate this as the ‘wrap up’ to the series, but I’ll not be actively seeking other titles from this author.
I received an AudioBook from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Stars: Overall: 2 Narration 3 Story 2
Not having read any of the earlier books in this series, but finding the synopsis delightfully entertaining and promised something lighthearted and laugh worthy, I jumped right in. The heroine, Julia, is due to be married soon – and if that’s not enough, she’s also trying to find time to sort out all those little ‘issues’ that pop up with her bakery. And with a wedding that she didn’t plan (her sister did), both families vying for their own ‘say’ in her special day, and when the ex-girlfriend shows up (because you can’t have enough piling on for keystone-cop-like issues to occur. You guessed it – too much going on, not enough development of relationships or character, no backbone whatsoever for Julia, and no let off from her over the top family. It was exhausting just getting through the first hour of this audio – and I had over 5 to go.
Frequent breaks as there was so much action as to slow my interest to a crawl, it took a concussion (seriously!) for Julia to find ANY backbone – and, quite frankly, it was too little far too late. There was little romance, and even less progression with characters and their relationships – I was overwhelmed with the stress juggle that Julia lived with – never quite dealing with anything but simply moving it from one hand to another for ‘dealing with’ another time – if ever. I never saw, even with some backbone growth, any real development for Julia – I arrived in the story with Welcome stamped on her forehead, and we left with the same feeling. It’s sad – but this story felt young and unrealistic, missing an editor to sharpen the points and remove the candy floss fluff that simply piled on without any real foundation.
Narration for this story is provided by Ann Marie Gideon and her performance was solid. She embodied Julia and managed to provide enough distinction to give me clear understanding that another character was speaking – but I was so uninterested and disengaged from the actual words being said I truly can’t expound on her performance of the story – certainly I would listen to another title from this narrator.
I think, if you are a fan of ‘young and immature’ thirty somethings and a story that is based (and gleans humor) from the negative – this is a series and book you’d enjoy. Fans of earlier titles in the series may appreciate this as the ‘wrap up’ to the series, but I’ll not be actively seeking other titles from this author.
I received an AudioBook from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
June 11, 2021
It's Her Day...Or Is It?
For those of you who read my unfinished review of The Spinster Series, please know that I didn't intend to press the "Submit" button. Actually, I was trying to press Delete to erase an error. I was going to say that the hippie slope moment was not a spoiler because it was in the Prelude (like a Preface) before Chapter One. I also wanted to add that two other sources of stress for her are Jared's brother's girlfriend, who is not only perfect but snarky and turns it to be Jared's ex-fiance from college, which be thought wasn't "important enough" to tell her, and the be hire add the bakery, who does everything perfectly and annoys the other employees add Silk add her boss by changing vendors and accounting software without consulting Julia.
Are the elope ment, Julia and Jared service two to through the planned wedding to avoid upsetting Anna and Jared's mother, Bobby, who has been helping Anna plan the ceremony and has invited what Julia refers to as "half of Denver". No wonder shes so stressed! Add least the elopement took the pressure off her and stopped her recurring anxiety dreams (or maybe that was caused by the meds prescribed for her in the hospital).
Fortunately everything goes well until the best man's speech reveals a secret they would rather have kept from both families for a few more months. (Moms will figure out those hints, so it might be a spoiler to some readers.) But everyone takes the news well and the Epilogue finishes the book in style. It's a satisfying ending for everyone... except perhaps Anna. But she's always been has to read...
This is the most complicated Monson book I've read yet, but it hits the spot with sympathetic characters, non-stereotypical in-laws, beauty goes from an unlikely source, and a mortifying scene in a drug store that many readers can identify with. Becky Monson has done it again, and I look forward to reading more of her work.
For those of you who read my unfinished review of The Spinster Series, please know that I didn't intend to press the "Submit" button. Actually, I was trying to press Delete to erase an error. I was going to say that the hippie slope moment was not a spoiler because it was in the Prelude (like a Preface) before Chapter One. I also wanted to add that two other sources of stress for her are Jared's brother's girlfriend, who is not only perfect but snarky and turns it to be Jared's ex-fiance from college, which be thought wasn't "important enough" to tell her, and the be hire add the bakery, who does everything perfectly and annoys the other employees add Silk add her boss by changing vendors and accounting software without consulting Julia.
Are the elope ment, Julia and Jared service two to through the planned wedding to avoid upsetting Anna and Jared's mother, Bobby, who has been helping Anna plan the ceremony and has invited what Julia refers to as "half of Denver". No wonder shes so stressed! Add least the elopement took the pressure off her and stopped her recurring anxiety dreams (or maybe that was caused by the meds prescribed for her in the hospital).
Fortunately everything goes well until the best man's speech reveals a secret they would rather have kept from both families for a few more months. (Moms will figure out those hints, so it might be a spoiler to some readers.) But everyone takes the news well and the Epilogue finishes the book in style. It's a satisfying ending for everyone... except perhaps Anna. But she's always been has to read...
This is the most complicated Monson book I've read yet, but it hits the spot with sympathetic characters, non-stereotypical in-laws, beauty goes from an unlikely source, and a mortifying scene in a drug store that many readers can identify with. Becky Monson has done it again, and I look forward to reading more of her work.
September 6, 2020
I enjoyed this one as much as the first on in the series. I think it is because I connect with Julie with all of her insecurities. I can easily see myself getting into the situations that Julie does.
I thought for quite a while that all her panic attack/hyperventilating might be her being pregnant, because (thankfully) the author does not give you a real indication whether she and Jared are sexually active. In many ways her passing out at the Gala and ending up in the hospital was a turning point for her and she was able to finally free herself of the stress she was under,even if some was her own fault.
I also loved that she did not let her initial impression of the elopement ceremony take over her while being. I think maybe the meds had something to do with it. Once she let go and enjoyed the concept of the elopement ceremony with Jared, she found the beauty in it all (except for the spider of course).
I really thought that Lisa was going to end up coming between Julie and Jared and that she was just using Mark to get to Jared. I almost wish we could see how that relationship works out, especially with Bobby factored in. I think the whole Lisa scenario taught me that how things are interpreted is very subjective. What Lisa felt was a (wistful) compliment was taken as a slam by Julie. Maybe we all need to get past our initial impressions of someone and really talk to them to get the true impression.
I thought for quite a while that all her panic attack/hyperventilating might be her being pregnant, because (thankfully) the author does not give you a real indication whether she and Jared are sexually active. In many ways her passing out at the Gala and ending up in the hospital was a turning point for her and she was able to finally free herself of the stress she was under,even if some was her own fault.
I also loved that she did not let her initial impression of the elopement ceremony take over her while being. I think maybe the meds had something to do with it. Once she let go and enjoyed the concept of the elopement ceremony with Jared, she found the beauty in it all (except for the spider of course).
I really thought that Lisa was going to end up coming between Julie and Jared and that she was just using Mark to get to Jared. I almost wish we could see how that relationship works out, especially with Bobby factored in. I think the whole Lisa scenario taught me that how things are interpreted is very subjective. What Lisa felt was a (wistful) compliment was taken as a slam by Julie. Maybe we all need to get past our initial impressions of someone and really talk to them to get the true impression.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2023
Too many tropes I don't like
SPOILER ALERT! Pls don't read below if you don't want anything spoiled for you!
I HATE the old Ex shows up to wreck chaos during the wedding planning ploy! Its SO old and honestly annoying. Especially when (typically) the guys act so CLUELESS about how rude and disruptive to their future brides their exes are being. I mean....HELLO! You broke up for a reason, don't you think there's a SLIGHT chance they're doing SOMETHING wrong?!
Then there's the controlling future mother-in-law, ruining what should be a good time and believing any lie about her future daughter-in-law. The cluless fiancee, who apparently can't read his own girlfriend's moods and puts her on the spot. It took her being hospitalized for him to actually listen.
Then again, I mean.....Julia could have SPOKEN up for herself more. But no, she let her sister, her man, her future mother in law, her employees, and her man's ex tell her what to do and stress her out.
And of course, there was the surprise pregnancy 😕
Things did pick up after the hospitalization though. Julia started to express herself, stand up for herself and communicate with her man. Once Jared found out how bad things were for her, he was super cute and tried to do anything that would make her happy! 😍
It got cute even with the added drama during the wedding. And the epilogue was adorable ☺️ They were mean with the baby name though, js lol
SPOILER ALERT! Pls don't read below if you don't want anything spoiled for you!
I HATE the old Ex shows up to wreck chaos during the wedding planning ploy! Its SO old and honestly annoying. Especially when (typically) the guys act so CLUELESS about how rude and disruptive to their future brides their exes are being. I mean....HELLO! You broke up for a reason, don't you think there's a SLIGHT chance they're doing SOMETHING wrong?!
Then there's the controlling future mother-in-law, ruining what should be a good time and believing any lie about her future daughter-in-law. The cluless fiancee, who apparently can't read his own girlfriend's moods and puts her on the spot. It took her being hospitalized for him to actually listen.
Then again, I mean.....Julia could have SPOKEN up for herself more. But no, she let her sister, her man, her future mother in law, her employees, and her man's ex tell her what to do and stress her out.
And of course, there was the surprise pregnancy 😕
Things did pick up after the hospitalization though. Julia started to express herself, stand up for herself and communicate with her man. Once Jared found out how bad things were for her, he was super cute and tried to do anything that would make her happy! 😍
It got cute even with the added drama during the wedding. And the epilogue was adorable ☺️ They were mean with the baby name though, js lol
January 17, 2018
This was a great conclusion to the Spinster trilogy, as hilarious and neurotic as ever.
But this is the first one I've had any reservations at all about, and while they are personal to me, they should be discussed in case they are relevant to others as well.
First, the most independent woman in the series gets baby fever and thinks she HAS to have a baby. I get that this is something many females go through, but it also felt like it would be better coming from the main character, who has always been one to crumble under societal expectations. It would have been nice to have the independent woman strike her own path with her man.
The second issue happens towards the end, and I don't want to give anything away so I'll just say that it too was of the type of "why does this feel necessary to have the happy ending". This particular subplot could have been left out completely, and the story - both of this particular book and the trilogy as a whole - would have felt just as complete.
But again, overall the book was a great read, and I'm glad I finally had the chance to read it. Definitely worth reading, just be prepared for those two particular things if that is something you need to prepare yourself for.
But this is the first one I've had any reservations at all about, and while they are personal to me, they should be discussed in case they are relevant to others as well.
First, the most independent woman in the series gets baby fever and thinks she HAS to have a baby. I get that this is something many females go through, but it also felt like it would be better coming from the main character, who has always been one to crumble under societal expectations. It would have been nice to have the independent woman strike her own path with her man.
The second issue happens towards the end, and I don't want to give anything away so I'll just say that it too was of the type of "why does this feel necessary to have the happy ending". This particular subplot could have been left out completely, and the story - both of this particular book and the trilogy as a whole - would have felt just as complete.
But again, overall the book was a great read, and I'm glad I finally had the chance to read it. Definitely worth reading, just be prepared for those two particular things if that is something you need to prepare yourself for.
January 2, 2021
I loved Becky Monson's characters and style when I read book #2 of this series (yes, I read them out of order), so I immediately ordered the rest of the series. It's been hard to read book #1 (since I already know how it will end), but I read part of it before curiosity pushed me to pick up #3.
Not only do I love Monson's voice and comedy, I LOVE her conflict -- she doesn't try to drag a plot line through the entire story when it could be wrapped up in a few chapters. She goes ahead and wraps it up, then moves on to the next story element. The story starts in one place and ends up close to where you expected, but the detours and short cuts keep the journey exciting.
In regards to this book, Jared's a little too perfect, but that's what makes him so loveable. I enjoy a realistically flawed hero, but Jared's wonderfulness pairs well with Julia's normalness.
In regards to Monson's writing, it's effortlessly funny. Most of the time, people tell me something is funny and it's just predictable or mean. Not so with Monson. Maybe we just have the same sense of humor. Whatever it is, I'll definitely read more of her books.
Rated PG (a couple of swear words and some mentions of sex, but nothing shown)
Not only do I love Monson's voice and comedy, I LOVE her conflict -- she doesn't try to drag a plot line through the entire story when it could be wrapped up in a few chapters. She goes ahead and wraps it up, then moves on to the next story element. The story starts in one place and ends up close to where you expected, but the detours and short cuts keep the journey exciting.
In regards to this book, Jared's a little too perfect, but that's what makes him so loveable. I enjoy a realistically flawed hero, but Jared's wonderfulness pairs well with Julia's normalness.
In regards to Monson's writing, it's effortlessly funny. Most of the time, people tell me something is funny and it's just predictable or mean. Not so with Monson. Maybe we just have the same sense of humor. Whatever it is, I'll definitely read more of her books.
Rated PG (a couple of swear words and some mentions of sex, but nothing shown)
May 19, 2024
Listened on audiable
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I have listened to all 3 in the series and think this is my favourite it just had all the good feels, humour, quirks, some little twists and turns.
I didn't expect to enjoy this quite as much as I did, from Julia originally meeting Jared in the conference room while she was under the table on the floor in book 1 to then going on to marry him in book 3 well yes it may be all a little cliche for some but for me it was exactly what I needed some lovely romcom, chic lit feel good humour with her loved ones, her friends, family, Co workers and enemies who become not so all brought together and each getting their happy ending.
Thank you for this work Becky I really did enjoy listening to this it made me feel better about my day, made me laugh, even brought a little tear and reminded me of what is truly important in life and that is our family & close friends. Laughter & love really are the best medicine, and today I had that from this audiobook. It brings hope that even when things may seem tough we can have humour, love & laughter and maybe even find a happy ever after ❤️
#allthestars
#beckymonson
#Highlyreccomended
#feelgood
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I have listened to all 3 in the series and think this is my favourite it just had all the good feels, humour, quirks, some little twists and turns.
I didn't expect to enjoy this quite as much as I did, from Julia originally meeting Jared in the conference room while she was under the table on the floor in book 1 to then going on to marry him in book 3 well yes it may be all a little cliche for some but for me it was exactly what I needed some lovely romcom, chic lit feel good humour with her loved ones, her friends, family, Co workers and enemies who become not so all brought together and each getting their happy ending.
Thank you for this work Becky I really did enjoy listening to this it made me feel better about my day, made me laugh, even brought a little tear and reminded me of what is truly important in life and that is our family & close friends. Laughter & love really are the best medicine, and today I had that from this audiobook. It brings hope that even when things may seem tough we can have humour, love & laughter and maybe even find a happy ever after ❤️
#allthestars
#beckymonson
#Highlyreccomended
#feelgood
July 9, 2017
Really enjoyed this book, accept the only the problem is I started with book 3 not so smart .. But I love the dry humor the author has . I can picture my myself being Julia ..LoL
Thirty-Four Going on Bride by Becky Monson
Julia Dorning is about to lose it. Between her over-the-top wedding that her sister, Anna, took upon herself to create, and the under-staffed popular bakery that she runs, she can barely find time to breathe. All Julia ever wanted was a quaint wedding on the beach with family and friends. But now Julia has to contend with not only her sister's plans, but those of her future mother-in-law, as well. Not wanting to step on anyone's toes, especially her mother-in-law's, Julia just goes along with it. She can only take so much, though, and when her newest employee, Kate, makes things harder at the bakery, Julia has to find a way to simplify her life
I am def buying book 1&2
Thirty-Four Going on Bride by Becky Monson
Julia Dorning is about to lose it. Between her over-the-top wedding that her sister, Anna, took upon herself to create, and the under-staffed popular bakery that she runs, she can barely find time to breathe. All Julia ever wanted was a quaint wedding on the beach with family and friends. But now Julia has to contend with not only her sister's plans, but those of her future mother-in-law, as well. Not wanting to step on anyone's toes, especially her mother-in-law's, Julia just goes along with it. She can only take so much, though, and when her newest employee, Kate, makes things harder at the bakery, Julia has to find a way to simplify her life
I am def buying book 1&2
May 16, 2017
I think I like this one best, which is unusual. Normally, once the main characters get together in a rom-com kind of series, they get worse not better, and I'm happy that this series has done the opposite.
While some things were entirely predictable (like Julia being pregnant at the end - although I thought for sure that's why she was acting crazy earlier and it turned out to be anxiety), there were a lot of really funny moments. I particularly enjoyed that her mother-in-law had moved in while they were secretly eloping and they had to spend the beginning of their marriage sneaking around like teenagers. I also liked that Julia was forced to grow a bit of a spine (after freaking out a few times). I was a little concerned about where the ex-girlfriend-Lisa storyline was going, but it turned out much better than I expected. Over all, I really liked it.
While some things were entirely predictable (like Julia being pregnant at the end - although I thought for sure that's why she was acting crazy earlier and it turned out to be anxiety), there were a lot of really funny moments. I particularly enjoyed that her mother-in-law had moved in while they were secretly eloping and they had to spend the beginning of their marriage sneaking around like teenagers. I also liked that Julia was forced to grow a bit of a spine (after freaking out a few times). I was a little concerned about where the ex-girlfriend-Lisa storyline was going, but it turned out much better than I expected. Over all, I really liked it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2021
This book was such a fantastic end to the series and just such a fun read overall. I laughed out loud so much and I swooned equally as often with the scenes between Jared and Julia.
The plot was well written and realistic. I was worried about the whole ex girlfriend plot but it did not turn out like I thought it would and I was very impressed. Honestly though Julia stressing about the wedding stressed me out so much—I’m deciding now that I will control my own wedding.
While the romance is obviously the main plot of the story family was another focus. Julia has to deal with the expectations of her family and I thought the author did a fantastic job of writing this.
Overall this was such a fun series and I highly recommend reading it.
Content: clean with some innuendo
The plot was well written and realistic. I was worried about the whole ex girlfriend plot but it did not turn out like I thought it would and I was very impressed. Honestly though Julia stressing about the wedding stressed me out so much—I’m deciding now that I will control my own wedding.
While the romance is obviously the main plot of the story family was another focus. Julia has to deal with the expectations of her family and I thought the author did a fantastic job of writing this.
Overall this was such a fun series and I highly recommend reading it.
Content: clean with some innuendo
October 7, 2018
Really enjoyable book!
I really enjoyed this. It is fun, funny, heartwarming, tear inducing and just a good story well told.
I do kind of know Becky Monson (we are Facebook friends) but my online friendship with her has in no way colored my enjoyment of this book nor influenced this review.
I have genuinely enjoyed this series and I really wish there were more books to read. Being a middle aged married man I suspect I am pretty far from the target audience for this series but I still enjoyed it greatly . . . if you are more like the target audience for this book and this series I genuinely expect you will enjoy this series as well!
I really enjoyed this. It is fun, funny, heartwarming, tear inducing and just a good story well told.
I do kind of know Becky Monson (we are Facebook friends) but my online friendship with her has in no way colored my enjoyment of this book nor influenced this review.
I have genuinely enjoyed this series and I really wish there were more books to read. Being a middle aged married man I suspect I am pretty far from the target audience for this series but I still enjoyed it greatly . . . if you are more like the target audience for this book and this series I genuinely expect you will enjoy this series as well!
April 17, 2022
The Spinster series are amusing "chick lit" books, quick and easy "beach reads". There are some questionable moments in regards to being "politically correct" and thus my 3 instead of 4 star rating. However, I did end up reading all 3 books in the series. I received the first two titles in the series as a free promotion (I think from Book Bub) and decided to purchase the third eBook "Thirty-Four Going on Bride" using my Amazon shipping credits. Amusing escapism with some funny laugh-out-loud moments. I will keep an eye out for other books by Becky Monson.
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