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Dilbury Village #1
Never The Bride
"Hilarious, full of friendship and romance with a huge side-order of comedy. Perfect light hearted escapism!" Kitty French, USA Today bestselling author.
Always the bridesmaid, never the bride.
Walking down the aisle, yet again, Abbie Carter feels the doom of the curse. With eight hideous dresses filling her attic, Abbie has more bridesmaid dresses than dates. Unlucky in love is an understatement.
However, when she locks eyes with a sexy groomsman, everything changes. Suddenly, Miller Davis only has eyes for her. But proximity is an evil villain. With an ocean separating them, a relationship is out of the question. Abbie can't even bond well with her elderly, fat pooch Mr. Sumo. She can't possibly make it work with a New Yorker so far away … could she? And Miller persistence makes her want so much more.
Will she find a way to make one last trip down the aisle?
A laugh-out-loud novel from Charlotte Fallowfield, Amazon U.K. #1 bestselling contemporary romance author of Until We Collide.
While Never The Bride is a standalone story, it's the first in the Dilbury Village series of romantic comedy novels. All of them will be set in the quaint fictitious English hamlet in the Shropshire countryside, but feature a different village couples' story.
Warning, if you are of a sensitive disposition when it comes to toilet humour, then the Dilbury Village series may not be for you!
Always the bridesmaid, never the bride.
Walking down the aisle, yet again, Abbie Carter feels the doom of the curse. With eight hideous dresses filling her attic, Abbie has more bridesmaid dresses than dates. Unlucky in love is an understatement.
However, when she locks eyes with a sexy groomsman, everything changes. Suddenly, Miller Davis only has eyes for her. But proximity is an evil villain. With an ocean separating them, a relationship is out of the question. Abbie can't even bond well with her elderly, fat pooch Mr. Sumo. She can't possibly make it work with a New Yorker so far away … could she? And Miller persistence makes her want so much more.
Will she find a way to make one last trip down the aisle?
A laugh-out-loud novel from Charlotte Fallowfield, Amazon U.K. #1 bestselling contemporary romance author of Until We Collide.
While Never The Bride is a standalone story, it's the first in the Dilbury Village series of romantic comedy novels. All of them will be set in the quaint fictitious English hamlet in the Shropshire countryside, but feature a different village couples' story.
Warning, if you are of a sensitive disposition when it comes to toilet humour, then the Dilbury Village series may not be for you!
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2017
966 people are currently reading
8291 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte Fallowfield
9 books533 followers
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Charlotte writes novels in two different genres under different pen names. She has a myriad of titles under her belt, and is proud to be both an independent, and traditionally published, author.
Charlotte lives in the beautiful countryside with her significant other, her mum, and three much loved pets, Mr. Pumpkin, feline of mass destruction, Truffle, the troublesome tabby, and Waffle, the boisterous sproodle.
She likes to use many of her own life experiences and countries she’s visited in her novels, and it also helps that she’s a total clutz and walking disaster to draw on for her humour.
As Charlotte Fallowfield, she writes romantic comedy novels that are heartwarming and hilarious with strong female friendships and sweet romance.
Charlotte released Until We Collide, her debut romantic comedy novel, in February 2016. It became an Amazon UK, and international, #1 bestselling contemporary romance, romantic comedy, and humorous novel.
As C.J. Fallowfield, she writes sexy, sassy and emotive romance novels that will leave you hot under the collar one moment, have you crying with laughter the next, before she rips your heart out and then slowly rebuilds your faith in a happy ever after.
C.J. is an Amazon #1 UK and international bestselling author of contemporary humorous erotic romance novels and released her debut back in January 2014.
Her website contains the most comprehensive information about her, as well as her current and up and coming releases.
www.cjandcharlottefallowfield.co.uk
Charlotte writes novels in two different genres under different pen names. She has a myriad of titles under her belt, and is proud to be both an independent, and traditionally published, author.
Charlotte lives in the beautiful countryside with her significant other, her mum, and three much loved pets, Mr. Pumpkin, feline of mass destruction, Truffle, the troublesome tabby, and Waffle, the boisterous sproodle.
She likes to use many of her own life experiences and countries she’s visited in her novels, and it also helps that she’s a total clutz and walking disaster to draw on for her humour.
As Charlotte Fallowfield, she writes romantic comedy novels that are heartwarming and hilarious with strong female friendships and sweet romance.
Charlotte released Until We Collide, her debut romantic comedy novel, in February 2016. It became an Amazon UK, and international, #1 bestselling contemporary romance, romantic comedy, and humorous novel.
As C.J. Fallowfield, she writes sexy, sassy and emotive romance novels that will leave you hot under the collar one moment, have you crying with laughter the next, before she rips your heart out and then slowly rebuilds your faith in a happy ever after.
C.J. is an Amazon #1 UK and international bestselling author of contemporary humorous erotic romance novels and released her debut back in January 2014.
Her website contains the most comprehensive information about her, as well as her current and up and coming releases.
www.cjandcharlottefallowfield.co.uk
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March 14, 2017
*****4.5 STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
”I can’t explain it, Abbie. The moment I saw you, it was like I was looking at a missing part of myself. Like I’ve been alone all of my life, and suddenly I wasn’t anymore.”
I’m ready to pack my bags and my dog, and relocate to Dilbury Village!! I want to live in this quaint little town with all of its lovable and quirky citizens, but minus all the POO!! I don’t think I’ve ever read a story with so many references to farts and poo, as NEVER THE BRIDE, and believe me when I say that I definitely have a good laugh over bathroom humor, but there was just a teensy bit too much of it here, HOWEVER, I still LOVED and enjoyed this story so much! Get ready to fall in love with a new set of endearing characters who we will all get to spend time with as there are more installments to come!!
Abbie Carter is a silly but sweet young woman who has a tendency to land herself in the most embarrassing circumstances which always end up happening in front of an audience! She is a walking train wreck, but she has such a huge heart and is adored by her close friends. Abbie has been the bridesmaid in quite a few weddings, but her prospects in the romance department have been depressingly non-existent. That is until she lays eyes on a stunningly handsome gentleman at the current wedding she is a bridesmaid for and ends up landing in his arms due to her inability to walk since her vision is blurred by hearts and flowers. The best man is Miller Davis, an American from New York City. He’s also been struck by cupid’s arrow as well. There is this magnetic force that is pulling these two together and oh how my heart got swept away by their cross-continental romance!!
Sadly, they spend a lot of time apart, since Miller owns a huge software gaming company and needs to be back in NYC to run his business, and Abbie’s life is deeply anchored with her adorable but gassy bulldog, Sumo, and her delightful and cherished friends in Dilbury. She lives in the cottage her father left to her when he passed away. It is her last connection to him and there’s no way she could ever imagine leaving it or the people she has come to love so dearly. This becomes an annoying road block for the couple. Neither is willing to make a compromise. Abbie believes Miller doesn’t love her enough because he refuses to move to Dilbury. Seeing as he was an orphan and has no family, she doesn’t understand why he can’t pick up and move. Miller, having grown up in foster care his entire life, has huge abandonment issues and sees Abbie’s unwillingness to move to NYC as proof that she’s not as into the relationship as he is. So the two continue throughout the story to act like complete jackasses. I wanted to shake the both of them.
But throughout the story, there are so many hilarious moments to be had due to Abbie’s unfortunate mishaps! I loved all the scenes with her bulldog, Sumo and all of the hi-jinx that occurred with her bestie Georgie and all of the unfortunate incidents that occurred at the many weddings that take place within the pages of this book! There was never a dull moment to be had. I laughed throughout and ok, I even cringed from embarrassment for poor Abbie! But along with the laughs, there were times my heart broke and tears were shed several times as well.
I am so in love with Charlotte Fallowfield’s writing style and am extremely excited about this fabulous series. Knowing that there is so much more to come, makes me so happy but the wait for book two is going to be excruciating!!
NEVER THE BRIDE is currently available. If you enjoy RomComs with swoony Heroes and a plethora of belly aching inducing laugh out loud moments, this is a story you should not pass up!!
AMAZON US: http://amzn.to/2n6wts1
AMAZON UK: http://amzn.to/2nBu0m4
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
”I can’t explain it, Abbie. The moment I saw you, it was like I was looking at a missing part of myself. Like I’ve been alone all of my life, and suddenly I wasn’t anymore.”
I’m ready to pack my bags and my dog, and relocate to Dilbury Village!! I want to live in this quaint little town with all of its lovable and quirky citizens, but minus all the POO!! I don’t think I’ve ever read a story with so many references to farts and poo, as NEVER THE BRIDE, and believe me when I say that I definitely have a good laugh over bathroom humor, but there was just a teensy bit too much of it here, HOWEVER, I still LOVED and enjoyed this story so much! Get ready to fall in love with a new set of endearing characters who we will all get to spend time with as there are more installments to come!!
Abbie Carter is a silly but sweet young woman who has a tendency to land herself in the most embarrassing circumstances which always end up happening in front of an audience! She is a walking train wreck, but she has such a huge heart and is adored by her close friends. Abbie has been the bridesmaid in quite a few weddings, but her prospects in the romance department have been depressingly non-existent. That is until she lays eyes on a stunningly handsome gentleman at the current wedding she is a bridesmaid for and ends up landing in his arms due to her inability to walk since her vision is blurred by hearts and flowers. The best man is Miller Davis, an American from New York City. He’s also been struck by cupid’s arrow as well. There is this magnetic force that is pulling these two together and oh how my heart got swept away by their cross-continental romance!!
Sadly, they spend a lot of time apart, since Miller owns a huge software gaming company and needs to be back in NYC to run his business, and Abbie’s life is deeply anchored with her adorable but gassy bulldog, Sumo, and her delightful and cherished friends in Dilbury. She lives in the cottage her father left to her when he passed away. It is her last connection to him and there’s no way she could ever imagine leaving it or the people she has come to love so dearly. This becomes an annoying road block for the couple. Neither is willing to make a compromise. Abbie believes Miller doesn’t love her enough because he refuses to move to Dilbury. Seeing as he was an orphan and has no family, she doesn’t understand why he can’t pick up and move. Miller, having grown up in foster care his entire life, has huge abandonment issues and sees Abbie’s unwillingness to move to NYC as proof that she’s not as into the relationship as he is. So the two continue throughout the story to act like complete jackasses. I wanted to shake the both of them.
But throughout the story, there are so many hilarious moments to be had due to Abbie’s unfortunate mishaps! I loved all the scenes with her bulldog, Sumo and all of the hi-jinx that occurred with her bestie Georgie and all of the unfortunate incidents that occurred at the many weddings that take place within the pages of this book! There was never a dull moment to be had. I laughed throughout and ok, I even cringed from embarrassment for poor Abbie! But along with the laughs, there were times my heart broke and tears were shed several times as well.
I am so in love with Charlotte Fallowfield’s writing style and am extremely excited about this fabulous series. Knowing that there is so much more to come, makes me so happy but the wait for book two is going to be excruciating!!
NEVER THE BRIDE is currently available. If you enjoy RomComs with swoony Heroes and a plethora of belly aching inducing laugh out loud moments, this is a story you should not pass up!!
AMAZON US: http://amzn.to/2n6wts1
AMAZON UK: http://amzn.to/2nBu0m4
March 7, 2017
4.5 BELLY LAUGH STARS
☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆
Abbie collects dresses. Specifically bridesmaids' dresses. But the one dress she covets the most has been out of reach so far. She isn't happy with her single status but living in a small village in England doesn't exactly give you a wide variety of male specimen to choose from. At the wedding of one of her friends Abbie locks eyes with the groom's gorgeous American best man...and stumbles right into his arms. They deepen their acquaintance in the spray of sprinklers. An emergency the same evening calls Miller home to New York. He leaves in a hurry but not without leaving Abbie his phone number and a sweet plea to call him.
Abbie cannot imagine a way how a relationship with a guy living on the other side of the pond could work. Add to that a reputation of being a lady's man and her decision is made and she throws his phone number away. Still, she can't stop thinking about him. A couple of months later they meet at the next wedding. Understandably, Miller is hurt and avoids Abbie but can he really turn away from what might be the love of his life?
Abbie is a sweet, quirky heroine with a stubborn streak, a big heart and a penchant for mishaps. She lives with her flatulent dog in the countryside in harmony with her neighbors and best friend. Her reasons for not wanting to leave her home are understandable, I could relate to her reservations although I did feel at times that she gave up too quickly.
Miller is a rich, charming but stubborn guy who hides insecurities you don't expect. There were some situations that didn't make sense to me at first because Charlotte Fallowfield makes it so and it is completely on purpose.
This book is written in a single POV from Abbie's perspective so the works of Miller's mind come from her and the way she experiences him. And this is probably the only thing that irritated me and had me deduct a half star. I love my dual point of view because it broadens the experience and gives you more depth into the characters' minds. Lack of dual POV notwithstanding, the solution to Miller's problems and insecurities did make sense in the end and I could forgive him.
This story is a charming, delightful and hilarious. It reminds me a great deal of Meghan Quinn's best books. It's a highly entertaining ride with a low steam factor. I like my reads more spicy but once in a while I do perfectly fine with a tamer story. We get a lot of toilet humor, which might get a little bit too much at times but I got some great belly laughs out of it. There is also a surprising dose of angst which kept me engaged. The side characters are incredibly endearing and if you are in dire straits these are the sidekicks you will want in your life.
Overall this was a fantastic introduction to Charlotte Fallowfield's books and I can't wait to get my hands on Georgie's story! This author's voice sounds proficient and fluid. If you love a good rom-com and don't mind the low steam this will be perfect for you!
☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆~☆
Abbie collects dresses. Specifically bridesmaids' dresses. But the one dress she covets the most has been out of reach so far. She isn't happy with her single status but living in a small village in England doesn't exactly give you a wide variety of male specimen to choose from. At the wedding of one of her friends Abbie locks eyes with the groom's gorgeous American best man...and stumbles right into his arms. They deepen their acquaintance in the spray of sprinklers. An emergency the same evening calls Miller home to New York. He leaves in a hurry but not without leaving Abbie his phone number and a sweet plea to call him.
Abbie cannot imagine a way how a relationship with a guy living on the other side of the pond could work. Add to that a reputation of being a lady's man and her decision is made and she throws his phone number away. Still, she can't stop thinking about him. A couple of months later they meet at the next wedding. Understandably, Miller is hurt and avoids Abbie but can he really turn away from what might be the love of his life?
‘There’s an us?’ My voice was barely a whisper. The thought of it excited and terrified me at the same time.
‘There is,’ he stated firmly. ‘I can’t explain it, Abbie. The moment I saw you, it was like I was looking at a missing part of myself. Like I’ve been alone all of my life, and suddenly I wasn’t anymore. I’ve thought about you every day since we met. I don’t know how we’re going to do this, with me in New York and you here, wherever the hell we are because I have no idea. I just know that I’ve got to try. The question is whether you’re willing to?’
Abbie is a sweet, quirky heroine with a stubborn streak, a big heart and a penchant for mishaps. She lives with her flatulent dog in the countryside in harmony with her neighbors and best friend. Her reasons for not wanting to leave her home are understandable, I could relate to her reservations although I did feel at times that she gave up too quickly.
Miller is a rich, charming but stubborn guy who hides insecurities you don't expect. There were some situations that didn't make sense to me at first because Charlotte Fallowfield makes it so and it is completely on purpose.
This book is written in a single POV from Abbie's perspective so the works of Miller's mind come from her and the way she experiences him. And this is probably the only thing that irritated me and had me deduct a half star. I love my dual point of view because it broadens the experience and gives you more depth into the characters' minds. Lack of dual POV notwithstanding, the solution to Miller's problems and insecurities did make sense in the end and I could forgive him.
This story is a charming, delightful and hilarious. It reminds me a great deal of Meghan Quinn's best books. It's a highly entertaining ride with a low steam factor. I like my reads more spicy but once in a while I do perfectly fine with a tamer story. We get a lot of toilet humor, which might get a little bit too much at times but I got some great belly laughs out of it. There is also a surprising dose of angst which kept me engaged. The side characters are incredibly endearing and if you are in dire straits these are the sidekicks you will want in your life.
Overall this was a fantastic introduction to Charlotte Fallowfield's books and I can't wait to get my hands on Georgie's story! This author's voice sounds proficient and fluid. If you love a good rom-com and don't mind the low steam this will be perfect for you!
‘When the time comes that you have to make the decision, you will.’
‘And what if I make the wrong decision?’
‘Take some advice from an old woman, Abbie. There’s no such thing as a wrong decision. You make your choices in life based on the cards played to you and your emotions at the time. Whatever will be will be, you can’t change fate.’
February 28, 2017
5 - "I do." Stars!
I was introduced to this author's awesomeness through her first chick-lit type story; Until We Collide, I knew after about two pages I would forever be a fan of anything Charlotte/ C. J. Fallowfield going forwards, and since that happy day she has not disappointed.
ITs LIVE!
UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Never-Bride-...
USA - https://www.amazon.com/Never-Bride-Di...
In fact the latter half of 2016, was all about this author and her books for me, so much so I threw the schedule out at points just so I could binge read her stories. Never The Bride is delivered in the same fashion as Until We Collide was, and that is fast paced, funny, emotive and beautifully written. Being the first book in the authors new Dilbury Village series makes me all-sorts of happy, because this is a place, with a wealth of characters that I want to revisit again and again.
"So, Abbie Carter, is that how you usually make an entrance?"
Abbie is our slightly accident prone heroine, although sometimes she is helped along in her endeavors by villainous factions, and her little ‘oopsies’ usually seem to occur at the weddings of her friends. Not always a bad thing though, because while wearing a rainbow bridesmaid dress she actually meets American Miller Davis. A man that makes her heart a-flutter and her girly bits a-tingle, although what’s a girl to do when a guy that lives in the US passes her his contact information... Throw it in the bin, although it doesn’t take her too long to realize the mistake she has made.
What follows is a bit of ‘right place, right time’, ‘right place, wrong time’ and on occasion ‘wrong place, wrong time’ for this couple and as the book progresses you just fall in love with Abbie and Miller as a pair and as individuals. So much happens to them, not to mention the wealth of characters that join them on their exploits along the way, but this is where the author excels for me, because everything is developed and described so well you just fall into the story alongside the characters and enjoy the ride that they are on.
I was on the emotional rollercoaster of my life this year...
You are going to laugh, cry and feel everything in-between when reading this book. Notable mention has to go to Mr. Sumo the dog, who bought his own special and fragrant presence to the story, as well as the rest of the residents of Dilbury Village. the author set the scene so well, while telling this story, and I cannot wait to visit again and again in the future.
The Great Escape, is the next book due for tentative release in Summer this year, and I am eager to see what adventures and giggles, Charlotte has up her sleeve for this next instalment.
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
I was introduced to this author's awesomeness through her first chick-lit type story; Until We Collide, I knew after about two pages I would forever be a fan of anything Charlotte/ C. J. Fallowfield going forwards, and since that happy day she has not disappointed.
ITs LIVE!
UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Never-Bride-...
USA - https://www.amazon.com/Never-Bride-Di...
In fact the latter half of 2016, was all about this author and her books for me, so much so I threw the schedule out at points just so I could binge read her stories. Never The Bride is delivered in the same fashion as Until We Collide was, and that is fast paced, funny, emotive and beautifully written. Being the first book in the authors new Dilbury Village series makes me all-sorts of happy, because this is a place, with a wealth of characters that I want to revisit again and again.
"So, Abbie Carter, is that how you usually make an entrance?"
Abbie is our slightly accident prone heroine, although sometimes she is helped along in her endeavors by villainous factions, and her little ‘oopsies’ usually seem to occur at the weddings of her friends. Not always a bad thing though, because while wearing a rainbow bridesmaid dress she actually meets American Miller Davis. A man that makes her heart a-flutter and her girly bits a-tingle, although what’s a girl to do when a guy that lives in the US passes her his contact information... Throw it in the bin, although it doesn’t take her too long to realize the mistake she has made.
What follows is a bit of ‘right place, right time’, ‘right place, wrong time’ and on occasion ‘wrong place, wrong time’ for this couple and as the book progresses you just fall in love with Abbie and Miller as a pair and as individuals. So much happens to them, not to mention the wealth of characters that join them on their exploits along the way, but this is where the author excels for me, because everything is developed and described so well you just fall into the story alongside the characters and enjoy the ride that they are on.
I was on the emotional rollercoaster of my life this year...
You are going to laugh, cry and feel everything in-between when reading this book. Notable mention has to go to Mr. Sumo the dog, who bought his own special and fragrant presence to the story, as well as the rest of the residents of Dilbury Village. the author set the scene so well, while telling this story, and I cannot wait to visit again and again in the future.
The Great Escape, is the next book due for tentative release in Summer this year, and I am eager to see what adventures and giggles, Charlotte has up her sleeve for this next instalment.
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
February 28, 2017
Never The Bride is the second book I've read from Charlotte Fallowfield and once again she knocks it out of the park. With a fabulous, quirky bunch of characters causing much hilarity, I devoured this romantic romp like Sutton United's goalkeeper eating a pie.
This story is what could've happened if Richard Curtis had got his hands on 27 Dresses; Abbie is the eternal bridesmaid and a little bit clumsy and so damn loveable with it. With her partners in crime--her bestie, Georgie, octogenarian neighbours, Daphne and David, plus Heath the hottie gardener, and Mr. Sumo, her stinky-bottomed room-emptying bulldog--much comedy is created. And then there's Miller Davies: the gorgeous, sexy, gorgeous, sexy, gorgeous American gent who Abbie falls for. Literally. Get ready to swoon my friends, because I did.
"There’s just something about you I can’t explain, something that makes me want to get to know you better, something I find incredibly attractive."
I loved both Abbie and Miller as individuals and as a couple, and amongst all the giggles is a sigh-worthy romance which has you cheering them on from the moment they meet.
"The moment I saw you, it was like I was looking at a missing part of myself. Like I’ve been alone all of my life, and suddenly I wasn’t anymore."
Charlotte Fallowfield has quickly proven she has a gift when it comes to comedy timing, creating an enchanting rom-com which will have you howling in one breath and leaving a tear in your eye the next. I absolutely can't wait to return to Dilbury.
Copy received courtesy of the author for an honest and unbiased opinion. It was my absolute pleasure.
This story is what could've happened if Richard Curtis had got his hands on 27 Dresses; Abbie is the eternal bridesmaid and a little bit clumsy and so damn loveable with it. With her partners in crime--her bestie, Georgie, octogenarian neighbours, Daphne and David, plus Heath the hottie gardener, and Mr. Sumo, her stinky-bottomed room-emptying bulldog--much comedy is created. And then there's Miller Davies: the gorgeous, sexy, gorgeous, sexy, gorgeous American gent who Abbie falls for. Literally. Get ready to swoon my friends, because I did.
"There’s just something about you I can’t explain, something that makes me want to get to know you better, something I find incredibly attractive."
I loved both Abbie and Miller as individuals and as a couple, and amongst all the giggles is a sigh-worthy romance which has you cheering them on from the moment they meet.
"The moment I saw you, it was like I was looking at a missing part of myself. Like I’ve been alone all of my life, and suddenly I wasn’t anymore."
Charlotte Fallowfield has quickly proven she has a gift when it comes to comedy timing, creating an enchanting rom-com which will have you howling in one breath and leaving a tear in your eye the next. I absolutely can't wait to return to Dilbury.
Copy received courtesy of the author for an honest and unbiased opinion. It was my absolute pleasure.
January 5, 2017
Never The Bride
Book Description
Abbie Carter felt doomed as she clutched her bouquet and started walking up the aisle. Again. She felt like she was stuck in some kind of Groundhog Day wedding nightmare. Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. Eight dresses, most of them hideous, were already stuffed in her attic space. She had more bridesmaid dresses than relationships. Was she really that unlucky in love? She despaired of ever finding her soul mate and was convinced that if she packed away dress thirteen in her attic, she’d never get to wear the coveted white one and have her happy ever after.
That was until she locked eyes with one of the handsome ushers, whose wink turned her elegant and well-practiced glide up the aisle into a flailing Bambi-on-ice spectacle. Miller Davis was the first man in forever to make her heart skip a beat, as well as her legs turn to jelly. And, for once, her interest in a man didn’t seem to be one-sided. It was just a shame that the Atlantic Ocean separated them. Abbie couldn’t even make a relationship with her elderly fat pooch, Sumo, work, so what chance did she have with a permanent New Yorker? Her best friend, Georgie, told her to ignore the miles that separated her from Miller and to go for it, saying that true love knew no bounds.
Was Abbie fated to always be the bridesmaid, or would her wish for the perfect day with the man of her dreams ever come true?
Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Charlotte has only gone and done it again. Made me spray my water all over my phone screen and couch by laughing so hard. Damn woman lol.
Never The Bride will having you laughing your ass off before crying ugly tears within a matter of minutes. From sharting to fifty shaKes this book will keep you highly entertained. There's a shit load of toilet humour (pun intended) and of course extremely awkward and embarrassing moments for poor Abbie.
The main characters are absolutely amazing as are the supporting characters, this book just wouldn't be the same without any of those awesome ladies and gents.
This is a story about true love and the obstacles one goes through to finally end up with their other half, their one true love. It's all love and happiness with heartbreaking sadness and pain that hurts deep to the core that all equals into one incredible story. While Never The Bride is a standalone story, it's the first in the Dilbury Village series by Charlotte Fallowfield
I would definitely recommend this beauty to anyone that loves a book full of humour. You'll definitely need tissues for this read be it from laughing until you cry or crying from the heartbreak but you'll love it. Can't wait for the others in the series.
Book Description
Abbie Carter felt doomed as she clutched her bouquet and started walking up the aisle. Again. She felt like she was stuck in some kind of Groundhog Day wedding nightmare. Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. Eight dresses, most of them hideous, were already stuffed in her attic space. She had more bridesmaid dresses than relationships. Was she really that unlucky in love? She despaired of ever finding her soul mate and was convinced that if she packed away dress thirteen in her attic, she’d never get to wear the coveted white one and have her happy ever after.
That was until she locked eyes with one of the handsome ushers, whose wink turned her elegant and well-practiced glide up the aisle into a flailing Bambi-on-ice spectacle. Miller Davis was the first man in forever to make her heart skip a beat, as well as her legs turn to jelly. And, for once, her interest in a man didn’t seem to be one-sided. It was just a shame that the Atlantic Ocean separated them. Abbie couldn’t even make a relationship with her elderly fat pooch, Sumo, work, so what chance did she have with a permanent New Yorker? Her best friend, Georgie, told her to ignore the miles that separated her from Miller and to go for it, saying that true love knew no bounds.
Was Abbie fated to always be the bridesmaid, or would her wish for the perfect day with the man of her dreams ever come true?
Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Charlotte has only gone and done it again. Made me spray my water all over my phone screen and couch by laughing so hard. Damn woman lol.
Never The Bride will having you laughing your ass off before crying ugly tears within a matter of minutes. From sharting to fifty shaKes this book will keep you highly entertained. There's a shit load of toilet humour (pun intended) and of course extremely awkward and embarrassing moments for poor Abbie.
The main characters are absolutely amazing as are the supporting characters, this book just wouldn't be the same without any of those awesome ladies and gents.
This is a story about true love and the obstacles one goes through to finally end up with their other half, their one true love. It's all love and happiness with heartbreaking sadness and pain that hurts deep to the core that all equals into one incredible story. While Never The Bride is a standalone story, it's the first in the Dilbury Village series by Charlotte Fallowfield
I would definitely recommend this beauty to anyone that loves a book full of humour. You'll definitely need tissues for this read be it from laughing until you cry or crying from the heartbreak but you'll love it. Can't wait for the others in the series.
February 21, 2017
3.5 Very Funny Stars****
Once you start reading Never The Bride you will enter a world of pure laughter that will be very hard to leave behind. You will want to stay in the quaint Dilbury Village, and follow along the lives of it's charming residents.
Abbie Carter; twenty eight, accountant, mother of a grumpy furry baby Sumo, and a forever bridesmaid.
Abbie has been unlucky in love, she has been down the isle about eight times but always wearing a bridesmaid dress. She is a romantic at heart and wants to find her own Prince charming, and her very own happily ever after, like her parents had. In one of the weddings she attended amidst another disaster caused by her clumsiness, she's caught the eye of the best man; a gorgeous American man that is able to turn her into a mess with just one look.
Miller Davis has been alone all his life. After being abandoned by his family he grew up with a goal in mind, to make something big of himself. He's succeeded, now as al adult he is a mogul in the video game industry and a one of the most desirable bachelors in New York. From the moment he sets eyes on Abbie wearing her monstrous bridesmaid dress, he is completely turned on by her, and the more he talks to her, the more he wants to stay by her side forever. The problem is Abbie and Miller live in two different continents and it seems like timing is never on their side.
Will Abbie and Miller be able to figure out a plan to let love into their lives?
I was laughing out loud with Abbie Carter. What a terrific character. Colorful, humble and totally relatable. This is a rom-com story that I'm sure everybody will enjoy.
Once you start reading Never The Bride you will enter a world of pure laughter that will be very hard to leave behind. You will want to stay in the quaint Dilbury Village, and follow along the lives of it's charming residents.
Abbie Carter; twenty eight, accountant, mother of a grumpy furry baby Sumo, and a forever bridesmaid.
Abbie has been unlucky in love, she has been down the isle about eight times but always wearing a bridesmaid dress. She is a romantic at heart and wants to find her own Prince charming, and her very own happily ever after, like her parents had. In one of the weddings she attended amidst another disaster caused by her clumsiness, she's caught the eye of the best man; a gorgeous American man that is able to turn her into a mess with just one look.
Miller Davis has been alone all his life. After being abandoned by his family he grew up with a goal in mind, to make something big of himself. He's succeeded, now as al adult he is a mogul in the video game industry and a one of the most desirable bachelors in New York. From the moment he sets eyes on Abbie wearing her monstrous bridesmaid dress, he is completely turned on by her, and the more he talks to her, the more he wants to stay by her side forever. The problem is Abbie and Miller live in two different continents and it seems like timing is never on their side.
Will Abbie and Miller be able to figure out a plan to let love into their lives?
I was laughing out loud with Abbie Carter. What a terrific character. Colorful, humble and totally relatable. This is a rom-com story that I'm sure everybody will enjoy.
August 15, 2017
This was a fun read, but with a lot of elements working against it. For example, I knew we were in for a bumpy ride when Abbie and Miller came together in a sincere way at about the third mark. Yeah, extremely early for a romance. Which meant we had to be in for a lot of thrash before things settled down.
So it doesn't work terribly well for a romance. So it's as well that a lot of chick lit was thrown in, too. I guess (assuming I have any idea what the distinction is and I'm pretty sure that I don't). Abbie has some minor maturing to do and there are . . . events, I suppose, that happen with secondary characters. And some humor that mostly didn't work for me (though were really funny when they actually did). Chief among what didn't work was the dog Mr. Sumo. I couldn't decide if I was supposed to sympathize or laugh and eventually came down on meh. Also meh was all the slapstick.
But there was enough humor that hit me the right way to keep me going and some great dialogue and some wonderful female friendships that really shine. Which is why I kept reading even though the stuff I cared about was mostly over at a third in.
Also, I have to laugh when authors make video game company owners billionaires. Sorry, but while that industry is huge, the competition is fierce and dominated by a few giant players and a young company like Miller's would be, well, not possible at that level, really. Also, nobody is ever going to name a video game company "AMD" because, hello, AMD is already the name of a prominent tech company and nobody wants that kind of confusion.
Anyway, this is a solid three-star read with flashes of better that never really gel.
A note about Chaste: There is no explicit sex in this story. They have sex. Lots of it, apparently. But there's nothing explicit going on. Well, there's innuendo. And talk about sex, some of it supposedly humorous. So while I consider it "chaste", I'm adding this note for those who might find that undesirable.
So it doesn't work terribly well for a romance. So it's as well that a lot of chick lit was thrown in, too. I guess (assuming I have any idea what the distinction is and I'm pretty sure that I don't). Abbie has some minor maturing to do and there are . . . events, I suppose, that happen with secondary characters. And some humor that mostly didn't work for me (though were really funny when they actually did). Chief among what didn't work was the dog Mr. Sumo. I couldn't decide if I was supposed to sympathize or laugh and eventually came down on meh. Also meh was all the slapstick.
But there was enough humor that hit me the right way to keep me going and some great dialogue and some wonderful female friendships that really shine. Which is why I kept reading even though the stuff I cared about was mostly over at a third in.
Also, I have to laugh when authors make video game company owners billionaires. Sorry, but while that industry is huge, the competition is fierce and dominated by a few giant players and a young company like Miller's would be, well, not possible at that level, really. Also, nobody is ever going to name a video game company "AMD" because, hello, AMD is already the name of a prominent tech company and nobody wants that kind of confusion.
Anyway, this is a solid three-star read with flashes of better that never really gel.
A note about Chaste: There is no explicit sex in this story. They have sex. Lots of it, apparently. But there's nothing explicit going on. Well, there's innuendo. And talk about sex, some of it supposedly humorous. So while I consider it "chaste", I'm adding this note for those who might find that undesirable.
December 31, 2018
Release Date: February 28, 2017
Genre: Chick Lit
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
I have always been a fan of chick lit novels but for the past few years I have pushed many books aside that reside in the genre in favor of romance books. That is going to change in 2019 though and I am starting it off with a bang! Never The Bride by Charlotte Fallowfield is everything that I love about chick lit. It's charming, funny, relatable, and lighthearted. It may not be the most realistic of books out there (like most books we read anyway) but it's extremely enjoyable in every other way. There were many moments (especially one scene that takes place in a local castle) that had me laughing so hard that I had tears in my face- and I couldn't stop! The toilet humor is top notch to say the least and I found every second of it to be hilarious.
In Never the Bride- the first interconnected standalone in the Dilbury Village series- readers will meet Abbie Carter, her best friend Georgie, her elderly neighbors, and a few more characters who will charm their way into your heart. Abbie is sick of being a bridesmaid. Having made a pact with her friends from school where everyone will be a bridesmaid in each others weddings, she has gone to a lot of weddings! And she's worried is she makes it to number 13 before she herself is married that she will forever be a spinster. But things are looking up when she meets the handsome Miller. Too bad an entire continent stands in their way because if love at first sight was real the it hit them both HARD.
After some back and forth and a few chance meetings these two decide to give it a go at the long distance thing. But will they make it for the long haul? Or will things get muddied when distance is placed between them?
If you haven't had the chance to read Never the Bride then I highly recommend you doing so! As I said, this book is laugh out loud funny and is filled with some of the best characters around! Both chick lit fans and die hard romance readers will get a kick out of this one and I hope many readers will give it a try!
Chick Lit Explanation
I wanted to take a second and tell readers why I would characterize this book as chick lit rather than romance. First and foremost, when I think of chick lit novels I see cartoon(ish) covers. If you take a look at the chick lit books out there you will also notice that many of them feature covers like this. I believe it is meant to show that the book is lighthearted. Secondly, chick lit novels have a main focus on the heroine and her life rather than the romance. While this book (and many other chick lit novels) does have romance in it, it is NOT the only focus of the book. I hope this helps when readers are looking to compare the two genres.
Genre: Chick Lit
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
I have always been a fan of chick lit novels but for the past few years I have pushed many books aside that reside in the genre in favor of romance books. That is going to change in 2019 though and I am starting it off with a bang! Never The Bride by Charlotte Fallowfield is everything that I love about chick lit. It's charming, funny, relatable, and lighthearted. It may not be the most realistic of books out there (like most books we read anyway) but it's extremely enjoyable in every other way. There were many moments (especially one scene that takes place in a local castle) that had me laughing so hard that I had tears in my face- and I couldn't stop! The toilet humor is top notch to say the least and I found every second of it to be hilarious.
In Never the Bride- the first interconnected standalone in the Dilbury Village series- readers will meet Abbie Carter, her best friend Georgie, her elderly neighbors, and a few more characters who will charm their way into your heart. Abbie is sick of being a bridesmaid. Having made a pact with her friends from school where everyone will be a bridesmaid in each others weddings, she has gone to a lot of weddings! And she's worried is she makes it to number 13 before she herself is married that she will forever be a spinster. But things are looking up when she meets the handsome Miller. Too bad an entire continent stands in their way because if love at first sight was real the it hit them both HARD.
After some back and forth and a few chance meetings these two decide to give it a go at the long distance thing. But will they make it for the long haul? Or will things get muddied when distance is placed between them?
If you haven't had the chance to read Never the Bride then I highly recommend you doing so! As I said, this book is laugh out loud funny and is filled with some of the best characters around! Both chick lit fans and die hard romance readers will get a kick out of this one and I hope many readers will give it a try!
Chick Lit Explanation
I wanted to take a second and tell readers why I would characterize this book as chick lit rather than romance. First and foremost, when I think of chick lit novels I see cartoon(ish) covers. If you take a look at the chick lit books out there you will also notice that many of them feature covers like this. I believe it is meant to show that the book is lighthearted. Secondly, chick lit novels have a main focus on the heroine and her life rather than the romance. While this book (and many other chick lit novels) does have romance in it, it is NOT the only focus of the book. I hope this helps when readers are looking to compare the two genres.
March 1, 2017
*3.5 - 4 Stars*
A romance comedy that will have you laughing out loud from the beginning til the end. I really like Charlotte Fallowfields voice – her writing is gripping and flows naturally. I won’t say too much about the plot but, this book is a witty comedy that you won't be able to put down. There are laugh-out loud moments, along with a touch of an angst – it was the perfect combination and balance. A must read for any hopeless romantic, in search of an endearing read.
*ARC received from author for an honest review*
A romance comedy that will have you laughing out loud from the beginning til the end. I really like Charlotte Fallowfields voice – her writing is gripping and flows naturally. I won’t say too much about the plot but, this book is a witty comedy that you won't be able to put down. There are laugh-out loud moments, along with a touch of an angst – it was the perfect combination and balance. A must read for any hopeless romantic, in search of an endearing read.
*ARC received from author for an honest review*
March 13, 2017
“If you both love each other, that love bridges the fault and anchors you together through any storm. He doesn’t have to be perfect, and neither do you….”
We first sampled Charlotte Fallowfield’s Rom-Com talent in Collide last year, finding ourselves, immediately captivated with the warmth, classic British humour and sweetness of her writing, and were thrilled to bits to hear a new series, set in the quaint English village of Dilbury, was in the works, and here it is! Charlotte once again had us in stitches, laughing at – and with, her loveable, madcap characters, delivering a sweet heart-warming story, with friendship and community spirit at the forefront. We loved spending time with this group of piss taking prankster friends who we’d love to pack up and spend time with. These characters made us want to pull up a stool at the Cock n Bull, order a sneaky Voddy, and spend hours, laughing hysterically with this cast of quirky characters.
To summarise, Abbie is a 28 year old Accountant who’s pretty happy with her lot, she lives in her old family home in Dilbury, with her neighbours, best friend, Georgie, Daphne who is like a Mum to her, and the newly arrived Charlie, the erotic romance writer. She loves her work, her home and her friends and even has a soft spot for her cantankerous, farting, lazy bulldog Mr Sumo, who returns none of her affections. The one thing missing is a man to share her life with. And, thanks to a silly pact she made with a group of ‘friends‘ in boarding school 12 years ago, she is committed to always being the bridesmaid never the bride, as she fulfils her promise after promise to perform bridesmaid duties wearing hideous dresses at these weddings. Abbie is fast approaching the unlucky 13th wedding, believing that once this happens, she’ll be jinxed; forever being the bridesmaid, never the bride.
However, across the room at one of the receptions, she meets the gorgeous Miller Davis, who instantly grabs her heart, experiencing a connection the likes of which she has never felt before. He of the ‘soft, full, kissable lips, movie star teeth, dimpled chin, and square jaw‘…and that’s just the start of Mr Davis’ attributes. He was rather luscious! They both feel the connection, and we think we gasped right along with Abbie when their eyes first met ….sigh…
‘Wow, hot, sexy and chivalrous. I felt like I was in Vegas at the slot machines, and the jackpot just sounded the alarm.’
However, things don’t go as planned as there’s a great big ocean separating them with Millers life being firmly entrenched in New York, and Abbie in her homely little village of Dilbury. Can they overcome the long distance? Can one make the choice to move? Is there more to Miller that Abbie doesn’t know? Can Abbie give it all up for love? All will be revealed when you pick up Never the Bride.
“The moment I saw you, it was like I was looking at a missing part of myself. Like I’ve been alone all of my life, and suddenly I wasn’t anymore.”
Charlotte Fallowfield has spot on comedic timing and certainly knows how to deliver those laugh out loud crazy moments. We had tears from laughing. The friendship connections, the riotous situations they find themselves in, and the zany, hilarious residents of this wonderful little community had us in stitches and her British humour is something we particularly enjoy and hope this never changes.
However, we found the comedy aspect overwhelmed the romance a little and as much as we loved Abbie and Miller, and did enjoy how it eventually played out, we didn’t feel or connect to them as a couple the way we had hoped. Comedy wise it delivered, romantically, sadly it just fell short for us. We needed more ‘Abbie and Miller time’ to allow us to fully connect and live their romance. We loved though how the author delivered some real and touching moments amid the humour ridden chaos.
Whilst we did adore this book, it didn’t quite win us over the way Until We Collide had previously. In saying that, we can’t wait to get back to this little village for some more rip-roaring fun when Georgie’s book releases in a few months, and we know this one will be a hoot! This time around, we absolutely felt the com, just not as much rom as we had hoped.
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January 9, 2020
I love my chick-lit books and have quite a collection of paperbacks, but I just couldn’t get to grips with Never the Bride. I thought the concept was interesting, the perennial bridesmaid with a whole host of comedic stories to tell, was pleasantly refreshing. The multitude of characters was endearing and fun to read about and the books setting, being not too far from where I live, was a nice change but, overall, I didn't enjoy this story, sadly.
We meet Abbie Carter as she journeys through bridesmaid dress after bridesmaid dress. With no love interest on the horizon, and all out of possibilities in the small village she lives in, her only chance at find love, as cliched as it is, was at a wedding, and she does, but in spectacular fashion. With all eyes on her as she and the other bridesmaids walk down the aisle, she notices the eyes of one person, in particular, looking at her and those eyes belong to Miller Davis. With a touch of jealousy and a heavy dose of spite, one of the other bridesmaids decides to punish Abbie but in doing so, she literally pushes Abbie into Miller’s arms. It’s lust at first sight for both Abbie and Miller but with Miller living in the US and Abbie tied to her home in Shropshire, will their relationship be doomed before it even commences?
As you can see, this book is a huge success in other people’s eyes so don’t let my feelings put you off. However, I do recommend proceeding with caution, especially if you’re of a sensitive disposition. Hopefully, you will find the humour where I found it lacking!
This ebook was kindly provided by the author prior to release date in return for an honest and unbiased review.
We are proud to provide honest and unbiased reviews written from the heart.
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We meet Abbie Carter as she journeys through bridesmaid dress after bridesmaid dress. With no love interest on the horizon, and all out of possibilities in the small village she lives in, her only chance at find love, as cliched as it is, was at a wedding, and she does, but in spectacular fashion. With all eyes on her as she and the other bridesmaids walk down the aisle, she notices the eyes of one person, in particular, looking at her and those eyes belong to Miller Davis. With a touch of jealousy and a heavy dose of spite, one of the other bridesmaids decides to punish Abbie but in doing so, she literally pushes Abbie into Miller’s arms. It’s lust at first sight for both Abbie and Miller but with Miller living in the US and Abbie tied to her home in Shropshire, will their relationship be doomed before it even commences?
As you can see, this book is a huge success in other people’s eyes so don’t let my feelings put you off. However, I do recommend proceeding with caution, especially if you’re of a sensitive disposition. Hopefully, you will find the humour where I found it lacking!
This ebook was kindly provided by the author prior to release date in return for an honest and unbiased review.
We are proud to provide honest and unbiased reviews written from the heart.
Email: jezabellgirlandfriends@gmail.com
Web: http://jezabellgirlandfriends.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/jezabellgirlandfr...
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Jezabell_girl
Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/jezabellg...
Google+: http://google.com/+JezabellGirl
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/JezabellGirl
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jezabell_girl
April 24, 2017
Oh. This was supposed to be a romantic comedy, but it fell desperately short of being humorous. My first niggles came when we were treated to several frankly nauseous accounts of the flatulent emissions of Mr Sumo the terminally ill bulldog. I don’t want to read about the bowel movements of dogs, I don’t want them to be treated as something funny. And to be honest I am appalled that any dog owner wouldn’t have consulted a vet much earlier to see if there was something wrong.
Then we had the extremely unpleasant (and possible ‘trademark tarnishment’ scenario) where Vicks Vaporub is the direct cause of someone ending up in hospital for three days. (and that was a most unsavoury incident) I was profoundly uncomfortable about this entire situation. It’s one thing to use a fictional product, but another entirely to use a well-known brand name. I am staggered that no one had the sense to warn the author, or that the author actually thought it was funny to use a trademarked name in this way. This could be a lawsuit waiting to happen, especially as the tradename is used several times. It’s a very unsavoury scene and I have to say I lost all empathy with the MC after that point.
The final straw was at 60% where the h goes into great detail about needing a ‘poo’. I was treated to language including: ‘a turd missile’, ‘soaking through my white jeggings’, ‘deposited my load’. ‘a poo so big ….it had curled back on itself’. Do people REALLY enjoy reading this? I found it utterly unfunny and crude in the extreme. Toilet humour is one thing - this was way way beyond that.
And at this point I dnf’d. Enough with the ‘toilet’ humour and the trademark tarnishing, and MORE than enough with the dying dog with its poisonous farts and bowel cancer. (I had a dog die of bowel cancer - it was not pleasant)
Enough. Some books are simply too obnoxious for me to continue reading and this was one.
Yes, the author did say: Warning, if you are of a sensitive disposition when it comes to toilet humour, then the Dilbury Village series may not be for you! but this was aimed at the maturity level of sniggering pre-pubescent boys, not romance readers looking for a 'romantic comedy'
Then we had the extremely unpleasant (and possible ‘trademark tarnishment’ scenario) where Vicks Vaporub is the direct cause of someone ending up in hospital for three days. (and that was a most unsavoury incident) I was profoundly uncomfortable about this entire situation. It’s one thing to use a fictional product, but another entirely to use a well-known brand name. I am staggered that no one had the sense to warn the author, or that the author actually thought it was funny to use a trademarked name in this way. This could be a lawsuit waiting to happen, especially as the tradename is used several times. It’s a very unsavoury scene and I have to say I lost all empathy with the MC after that point.
The final straw was at 60% where the h goes into great detail about needing a ‘poo’. I was treated to language including: ‘a turd missile’, ‘soaking through my white jeggings’, ‘deposited my load’. ‘a poo so big ….it had curled back on itself’. Do people REALLY enjoy reading this? I found it utterly unfunny and crude in the extreme. Toilet humour is one thing - this was way way beyond that.
And at this point I dnf’d. Enough with the ‘toilet’ humour and the trademark tarnishing, and MORE than enough with the dying dog with its poisonous farts and bowel cancer. (I had a dog die of bowel cancer - it was not pleasant)
Enough. Some books are simply too obnoxious for me to continue reading and this was one.
Yes, the author did say: Warning, if you are of a sensitive disposition when it comes to toilet humour, then the Dilbury Village series may not be for you! but this was aimed at the maturity level of sniggering pre-pubescent boys, not romance readers looking for a 'romantic comedy'
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2016
I'm so excited to bring you this new romantic comedy novel, which I hope you'll love just as much as you did Until We Collide. With her biological clock ticking, and all of her friends heading down the aisle, with her in tow as one of the bridesmaids, Abbie Carter fears that she'll never get to wear the coveted white dress. When she believes she's found her soul mate, there's just one small problem, the Atlantic Ocean separates them. Full of giggles and laugh out loud humour, a lot of it around a portly gassy bulldog called Mr. Sumo, and a fair bit of toilet humour, Never The Bride was proclaimed to be even funnier than Until We Collide by my beta readers. I hope you'll agree when it's released in February!
Want to read
July 9, 201809.07.2018: The ebook is currently free on Amazon!
March 6, 2017
4.5 stars...
This book is sweet and sooooo funny. I couldn't stop laughing! That bathroom part honest to god I was laughing so much I woke up my 5 month old :( The friendships was amazing! The gossip in this little town so cute! I just didn't like how long it took for her beau and her to finally hook up. And no sexy parts.. I love how the old lady next door talked dirty
I can't wait to see who will fall in love next ;)
This book is sweet and sooooo funny. I couldn't stop laughing! That bathroom part honest to god I was laughing so much I woke up my 5 month old :( The friendships was amazing! The gossip in this little town so cute! I just didn't like how long it took for her beau and her to finally hook up. And no sexy parts.. I love how the old lady next door talked dirty
I can't wait to see who will fall in love next ;)
February 28, 2017
Never The Bride was a very good read,at times I was laughing so much I couldn't keep reading and in the next chapter my eyes were so wet from crying I couldn't see the words aymore...but in the end my heart was so full of joy for our main characters I'm still smiling a day after I have finished it.
Abbie and Miller's lives are really different,a british country girl the first and a new yorker the latter, but their chemistry is undeniable from their first unforgettable encounter.I've enjoyed to follow their journey through the ups and downs of their relationship in order to reach their happiness.
Charlotte Falowfield merged hilarious events,sweet gestures and some emotional moments with an outstanding outcome,this is definitely a story I recommend.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
March 2, 2024
Cute, light-hearted and funny, Never The Bride was a pleasant surprise and I enjoyed it way more than I thought I would.
It's well-written with a great cast of characters. The female friendships in this book are just fabulous. The power of those female bonds, the emotional support, and much needed humour really made that book special.
And special mention needs to go to Mr Sumo. One of the best pet characters ever.
I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it to any chick-lit fans out there.
It's well-written with a great cast of characters. The female friendships in this book are just fabulous. The power of those female bonds, the emotional support, and much needed humour really made that book special.
And special mention needs to go to Mr Sumo. One of the best pet characters ever.
I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it to any chick-lit fans out there.
February 6, 2017
Loved this book - the village of Dilbury won my heart. I was shouting at the kindle for Abbie and Miller to sort themselves out, no spoilers but I loved the ending. Made me go all fuzzy and warm. I'll defo be reading more in the series as they get released x
February 24, 2017
Favorite Quotes:
You’re the nightmare bridesmaid, the one who always hates the dress… you do have a face like a smacked arse each time you walk up the aisle in one of those monstrosities.
… not even for my closed casket funeral… I wouldn’t even want someone to have to try and dress my stiff body in this hideous creation. Seeing my naked corpse would be torture enough for the undertaker, let alone in this… this… I have no words, Georgie, that’s how bad it is… I look like I just threw up a family sized bag of Skittles all over myself.
You’re beautiful, Abbie, but lately your mouth has been in a permanent resting trout pout.
I swear I’m going to kill her. I’m going to push her over the edge of the building. I’m going to bottle Sumo’s farts and send it to her as a new designer perfume. I’m going to pop her over-inflated tits with one of Daphne’s knitting needles.
Like you youngsters have the monopoly on sexy bedroom shenanigans… That book injected a bit of passion back into our lives and led to David’s hip replacement operation being moved forward. They couldn’t understand how it had worn down so fast from his last X-ray.
Seconds later, her top set of dentures flew across the room and landed with a plop in Rachel’s glass of champagne… ‘Thank goodness it wasn’t a bottom burp. At my age, you’ve got no chance of keeping in a five-course meal. We could have had a whole Mr. Sumo shart situation if the wrong end had blown.'
My Review:
Never the Bride was a pure delight and had me frequently giggle-snorting and barking loudly with gleeful mirth. I lost track of how many times I was forced to stop reading to catch my breath and wipe the copious tears of laughter from my eyes. Charlotte Fallowfield is a treasure and should have a monument of empty pens erected in her honor - posthaste! I have to admire and respect any author who writes herself into the story as a sexy vixen and purveyor of “salacious material.”
The storyline was ingenious, smartly written, and packed with captivating humor and vividly rendered antics. The writing was engaging and enticingly detailed with highly entertaining and exceedingly amusing descriptions. I adored every single word and mourned finishing. The characters were adorable, appealing, comical, and nothing short of endearing. I coveted the easy camaraderie between Abbie and Georgie, as well as their clever and witty banter. Abbie was a Calamity Jane type and prone to blurting out inappropriate comments and thoughts without realizing she was expressing them aloud. The narrative was also rife with encounters involving her toxically flatulent dog, Mr. Sumo. However, in addition to the comedy, there were themes of loss, love, and a recurring and particularly vile arch nemesis named Fi-Fi to contend with. I will be anxiously awaiting my return trip to Dilbury Village with the promised second installment later this year.
You’re the nightmare bridesmaid, the one who always hates the dress… you do have a face like a smacked arse each time you walk up the aisle in one of those monstrosities.
… not even for my closed casket funeral… I wouldn’t even want someone to have to try and dress my stiff body in this hideous creation. Seeing my naked corpse would be torture enough for the undertaker, let alone in this… this… I have no words, Georgie, that’s how bad it is… I look like I just threw up a family sized bag of Skittles all over myself.
You’re beautiful, Abbie, but lately your mouth has been in a permanent resting trout pout.
I swear I’m going to kill her. I’m going to push her over the edge of the building. I’m going to bottle Sumo’s farts and send it to her as a new designer perfume. I’m going to pop her over-inflated tits with one of Daphne’s knitting needles.
Like you youngsters have the monopoly on sexy bedroom shenanigans… That book injected a bit of passion back into our lives and led to David’s hip replacement operation being moved forward. They couldn’t understand how it had worn down so fast from his last X-ray.
Seconds later, her top set of dentures flew across the room and landed with a plop in Rachel’s glass of champagne… ‘Thank goodness it wasn’t a bottom burp. At my age, you’ve got no chance of keeping in a five-course meal. We could have had a whole Mr. Sumo shart situation if the wrong end had blown.'
My Review:
Never the Bride was a pure delight and had me frequently giggle-snorting and barking loudly with gleeful mirth. I lost track of how many times I was forced to stop reading to catch my breath and wipe the copious tears of laughter from my eyes. Charlotte Fallowfield is a treasure and should have a monument of empty pens erected in her honor - posthaste! I have to admire and respect any author who writes herself into the story as a sexy vixen and purveyor of “salacious material.”
The storyline was ingenious, smartly written, and packed with captivating humor and vividly rendered antics. The writing was engaging and enticingly detailed with highly entertaining and exceedingly amusing descriptions. I adored every single word and mourned finishing. The characters were adorable, appealing, comical, and nothing short of endearing. I coveted the easy camaraderie between Abbie and Georgie, as well as their clever and witty banter. Abbie was a Calamity Jane type and prone to blurting out inappropriate comments and thoughts without realizing she was expressing them aloud. The narrative was also rife with encounters involving her toxically flatulent dog, Mr. Sumo. However, in addition to the comedy, there were themes of loss, love, and a recurring and particularly vile arch nemesis named Fi-Fi to contend with. I will be anxiously awaiting my return trip to Dilbury Village with the promised second installment later this year.
March 26, 2019
2.5* rounded down because I finally had to start skimming
Edited at bottom to add comment about transphobic content
I do not mind toilet humour. However I do have a hard time with embarrassing situations. The h in this book seems to be endlessly in such situations. I did not find them funny. Many of them have to do with poop. For example a seagull leaves a dropping on a food item her neighbour is eating and he tells her how creamy and good it is. She also gets doused in manure while trying to spy on her new neighbour. Then there was the excessively drawn out chapter about her having a massive shit in the local manor house with poor plumbing. This was where I finally gave up and started jumping ahead.
Other than that the story was cute and I liked the characters. One could see all the people being set up for future books and I might try those out when i feel I can stomach another set of mishaps.
Added:
When I wrote the above I had forgotten that there was one section that bothered me as it seemed like casual transphobia. The h overhears that the H has a secret he is keeping from her. When she tries to guess what sort of terrible thing it might be she comes up with married, engaged, seeing someone, trans, or a serial killer. I flinched when I read it but I copied it down below so others can make their own judgment.
Edited at bottom to add comment about transphobic content
I do not mind toilet humour. However I do have a hard time with embarrassing situations. The h in this book seems to be endlessly in such situations. I did not find them funny. Many of them have to do with poop. For example a seagull leaves a dropping on a food item her neighbour is eating and he tells her how creamy and good it is. She also gets doused in manure while trying to spy on her new neighbour. Then there was the excessively drawn out chapter about her having a massive shit in the local manor house with poor plumbing. This was where I finally gave up and started jumping ahead.
Other than that the story was cute and I liked the characters. One could see all the people being set up for future books and I might try those out when i feel I can stomach another set of mishaps.
Added:
When I wrote the above I had forgotten that there was one section that bothered me as it seemed like casual transphobia. The h overhears that the H has a secret he is keeping from her. When she tries to guess what sort of terrible thing it might be she comes up with married, engaged, seeing someone, trans, or a serial killer. I flinched when I read it but I copied it down below so others can make their own judgment.
‘Then maybe you should tell me and let me decide for myself,’ I suggested as I set down my empty glass. ‘Until I know, I can’t gauge how I’m going to react, but I hate lies and I’m feeling a bit let down right now if that’s what you’ve done.’ ‘Not exactly,’ he replied, taking my hand as he led me to a section of the garden that wasn’t quite as crowded. ‘I think the phrase is “economical with the truth.”’ ‘Are you married?’ I asked, my stomach churning as I waited for his response. That would kill me, to find out I’d unwittingly become “the other woman.” ‘No.’ ‘Engaged?’ ‘No,’ he replied, a little more firmly. ‘Seeing anyone else?’ ‘No.’ ‘You’re transgender?’ I shot back. ‘No!’ he exclaimed. ‘An ex-serial killer?’ ‘Again, no. And how do you become an ex-serial killer?’ ‘I don’t know, I’m thrown as you’ve not been honest with me and I’ve no idea about what.’
December 30, 2016
***ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***
This is my first Rom-Com read from Charlotte and I must admit I was a bit dubious after reading all her other work but I needn't have worried! I absolutely loved it! I was laughing so much I got a stitch and had tears rolling down my face. Miller and Abbie are a match made in heaven and I loved the confused conversations between them at the start because Miller is American and Abbie is English. I was giggling at the pants part! By far the best scene in this book was Abbie's encounter at Max's mansion, I am still laughing as I think about it now! Daphne and Georgie are the kind of people I wish I knew and their antics certainly kept me entertained! This is a very funny book but also very sweet and I can't wait for more in this series. Comedy Genius! I can't wait for Georgie's story!
This is my first Rom-Com read from Charlotte and I must admit I was a bit dubious after reading all her other work but I needn't have worried! I absolutely loved it! I was laughing so much I got a stitch and had tears rolling down my face. Miller and Abbie are a match made in heaven and I loved the confused conversations between them at the start because Miller is American and Abbie is English. I was giggling at the pants part! By far the best scene in this book was Abbie's encounter at Max's mansion, I am still laughing as I think about it now! Daphne and Georgie are the kind of people I wish I knew and their antics certainly kept me entertained! This is a very funny book but also very sweet and I can't wait for more in this series. Comedy Genius! I can't wait for Georgie's story!
January 2, 2017
My first review for 2017 has arrived! And with this epically hilarious and tantalising read by Charlotte Fallowfield. One that had me in complete stitched all the way through; from Abbie's unfortunate disasters to dentures flying through the air. I've suffered with stitches and bellyaches due to laughing so hard.
This author has truly outdone herself with this one. Some of the phrases/words used for this book were inventive and unforgettable. I won't ever forget the disgusting dilemma at the Lord's manor, resulting in a nasty surprise that no one had expected or Daphne's flying teeth and drunkenness. I'll never forget Mr. Sumo and his sharting or killer farts.
This whole book was wrapped in fun. Some of it was gross and had me grimacing but it was so freakin' hilarious that you can't help but laugh at.
A very memorable book indeed from this author. One I won't forget in a hurry!!
This author has truly outdone herself with this one. Some of the phrases/words used for this book were inventive and unforgettable. I won't ever forget the disgusting dilemma at the Lord's manor, resulting in a nasty surprise that no one had expected or Daphne's flying teeth and drunkenness. I'll never forget Mr. Sumo and his sharting or killer farts.
This whole book was wrapped in fun. Some of it was gross and had me grimacing but it was so freakin' hilarious that you can't help but laugh at.
A very memorable book indeed from this author. One I won't forget in a hurry!!
March 13, 2017
“If you both love each other, that love bridges the fault and anchors you together through any storm. He doesn’t have to be perfect, and neither do you….”
We first sampled Charlotte Fallowfield’s Rom-Com talent in Collide last year, finding ourselves, immediately captivated with the warmth, classic British humour and sweetness of her writing, and were thrilled to bits to hear a new series, set in the quaint English village of Dilbury, was in the works, and here it is! Charlotte once again had us in stitches, laughing at – and with, her loveable, madcap characters, delivering a sweet heart-warming story, with friendship and community spirit at the forefront. We loved spending time with this group of piss taking prankster friends who we’d love to pack up and spend time with. These characters made us want to pull up a stool at the Cock n Bull, order a sneaky Voddy, and spend hours, laughing hysterically with this cast of quirky characters.
‘Wow, hot, sexy and chivalrous. I felt like I was in Vegas at the slot machines, and the jackpot just sounded the alarm.’
To summarise, Abbie is a 28 year old Accountant who’s pretty happy with her lot, she lives in her old family home in Dilbury, with her neighbours, best friend, Georgie, Daphne who is like a Mum to her, and the newly arrived Charlie, the erotic romance writer. She loves her work, her home and her friends and even has a soft spot for her cantankerous, farting, lazy bulldog Mr Sumo, who returns none of her affections. The one thing missing is a man to share her life with. And, thanks to a silly pact she made with a group of ‘friends‘ in boarding school 12 years ago, she is committed to always being the bridesmaid never the bride, as she fulfils her promise after promise to perform bridesmaid duties wearing hideous dresses at these weddings. Abbie is fast approaching the unlucky 13th wedding, believing that once this happens, she’ll be jinxed; forever being the bridesmaid, never the bride. Click here for full review
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March 28, 2019
This book came to me at the perfect time, when I needed a little lift. A hilarious romp in a small village where a group of women you would love to hang around with are all brought together. Annie is a walking disaster, and I love her, everything turns into a calamity where she is involved which can be traumatic when you are the bridesmaid at several weddings. Miller is both hot and sweet, but trying to maintain a long distance relationship can be difficult. There were moments I was practically crying with laughter in this story, I highly recommend it if you enjoy a giggle along with your romance and I look forward to reading more about this village and its inhabitants in the future.
February 28, 2017
* ARC Received in Exchange for an Honest Review*
*Bookaholic Confessions*
4.5 LOL Stars
Abbie and Miller’s story was hilarious. I was giggling and laughing out loud from the first chapter on. While versions of the plot have been told before, I loved Charlotte’s take. Her writing is so much fun and the story is uplifting with a bunch of feels.
There are some great characters in this book. Abbie and Miller are definitely the main ones, who I absolutely love, but we are also introduced to some crazy, catty, annoying, charming and lovable people. There were spots where I would want to punch certain characters in the face and others that I just wanted to cry for. Not that there is a lot of crying, but Abbie and Miller’s story, along with their friends, hits you right in the feels.
To see my full review, click here
*Bookaholic Confessions*
4.5 LOL Stars
Abbie and Miller’s story was hilarious. I was giggling and laughing out loud from the first chapter on. While versions of the plot have been told before, I loved Charlotte’s take. Her writing is so much fun and the story is uplifting with a bunch of feels.
There are some great characters in this book. Abbie and Miller are definitely the main ones, who I absolutely love, but we are also introduced to some crazy, catty, annoying, charming and lovable people. There were spots where I would want to punch certain characters in the face and others that I just wanted to cry for. Not that there is a lot of crying, but Abbie and Miller’s story, along with their friends, hits you right in the feels.
To see my full review, click here
March 9, 2017
"Take some advice from an old woman, Abbie. There's no such thing as a wrong decision. You make your choices in life based on the cards played to you and your emotions at the time. Whatever will be will be, you can't change your fate."
I laughed until I cried and then I just sat unashamedly with tears rolling down my cheeks...Never the Bride will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotion. I guarantee you will be able to relate to at least one scene in this romantic comedy, as you turn you pages you will find yourself thinking I have done that or been in a similar situation...maybe not quite as dramatic or as outlandish but you will find a little of yourself in Abbie and her friends. The ominous tick of the clock can be heard by Abbie as she feels her time is running out, always the bridesmaid but never the bride, a boarding school pact is her nemesis. Having sworn to be a bridesmaid for thirteen classmates her life seems an ongoing cruel prank that she remains unattached and single aside from a very gaseous pet pooch. Determined to find her soul mate she literally falls into the arms of her dream man, but with an ocean separating them and misconceptions sewing the seeds of doubt Abbie has her fair share of heartbreak, doubt and uncertainty but also a lot of fun along the way. Can they work out their differences before she has to don the dreaded last bridesmaid dress or is she doomed to never be the bride?
Once again Charlotte Fallowfield infuses this story with a rare blend of humour, angst and romance that's makes this a laugh out loud can't stop read. Not afraid to use toilet humour, situational comedy and some pretty awkward and embarrassing moments I literally had tears of laughter as I read parts of this story. Yet the raw emotions of loss and grief provided the balance to this story, making the characters all the more tangible and real. I wanted to be Abbie's friend, I wanted to move in next door and that to me is the real flare and talent of this author. She creates characters that come to life, that get under your skin and you feel like you know them. You cry with with, laugh with them and hope that they have their happy ending. If that isn't a little bit of food for your soul then I don't know what is. A book to me should contain a little bit of magic that gifts the reader with the enjoyment of reading and this story is sprinkled in fairy dust. If you are looking for a story that brings a smile to your face and warms your insides then add this to your one click must have reads. I promise you won't be disappointed.
A five star gregarious romcom read.
~*~ Privileged to be part of the beta team, reviewed on behalf of Obsessed by Books blog ~*~
I laughed until I cried and then I just sat unashamedly with tears rolling down my cheeks...Never the Bride will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotion. I guarantee you will be able to relate to at least one scene in this romantic comedy, as you turn you pages you will find yourself thinking I have done that or been in a similar situation...maybe not quite as dramatic or as outlandish but you will find a little of yourself in Abbie and her friends. The ominous tick of the clock can be heard by Abbie as she feels her time is running out, always the bridesmaid but never the bride, a boarding school pact is her nemesis. Having sworn to be a bridesmaid for thirteen classmates her life seems an ongoing cruel prank that she remains unattached and single aside from a very gaseous pet pooch. Determined to find her soul mate she literally falls into the arms of her dream man, but with an ocean separating them and misconceptions sewing the seeds of doubt Abbie has her fair share of heartbreak, doubt and uncertainty but also a lot of fun along the way. Can they work out their differences before she has to don the dreaded last bridesmaid dress or is she doomed to never be the bride?
Once again Charlotte Fallowfield infuses this story with a rare blend of humour, angst and romance that's makes this a laugh out loud can't stop read. Not afraid to use toilet humour, situational comedy and some pretty awkward and embarrassing moments I literally had tears of laughter as I read parts of this story. Yet the raw emotions of loss and grief provided the balance to this story, making the characters all the more tangible and real. I wanted to be Abbie's friend, I wanted to move in next door and that to me is the real flare and talent of this author. She creates characters that come to life, that get under your skin and you feel like you know them. You cry with with, laugh with them and hope that they have their happy ending. If that isn't a little bit of food for your soul then I don't know what is. A book to me should contain a little bit of magic that gifts the reader with the enjoyment of reading and this story is sprinkled in fairy dust. If you are looking for a story that brings a smile to your face and warms your insides then add this to your one click must have reads. I promise you won't be disappointed.
A five star gregarious romcom read.
~*~ Privileged to be part of the beta team, reviewed on behalf of Obsessed by Books blog ~*~
February 7, 2017
If I could give more stars for this book I would. The writing is well executed and the story line thought provoking at times. It was hilarious, sweet and honestly one of the best books I have read in this genre in a long time.
This is book one in Charlotte Fallowfield's new series and in my opinion she is off to a flying start. I laughed so much I cried in this book; it was fabulous and I couldn't put it down.
Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. Abbie Carter fears that she has become the serial bridesmaid and when she likens her current dress to her looking like “a unicorn farted a neon rainbow” I just knew that this was going to be a great read.
Abbie is convinced that she will never meet her knight in shining armor, that is until her eyes meet Miller Davis, the best man and he winks at her across the church. That is enough to have Abbie falling over, throwing her bouquet into the mother of the brides face and generally making a spectacle of herself in front of everyone – of course Miller rushes in to save Abbie from herself and thus begins the adventure.
Miller is equally smitten with Abbie, so what could go wrong? The fact that she lives in a little village in England and he lives in New York, is just a minor detail. Or is it?
The chemistry between Abbie and Miller was off the charts and their banter amusing. These two had me smiling so much it hurt; throw in Abbie's best friend Georgie who is totally awesome and away we go.
Never The Bride had so many laugh out loud moments that I was in danger of being thought crazy. In fact, I certainly got more that one odd look whilst reading this on my train trip to work.
I will also admit that I cried on occasion for Abbie, it seemed nothing would work out and I desperately wanted her to have her happily ever after, but would it be with Miller?
The secondary characters in this book made for some cringe worthy moments at times, yet they were so likeable and I think most of us could put our own friends or relatives into the characters at times, I know I certainly could.
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series. Congratulations Ms. Fallowfield you have a winner on your hands.
This is book one in Charlotte Fallowfield's new series and in my opinion she is off to a flying start. I laughed so much I cried in this book; it was fabulous and I couldn't put it down.
Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. Abbie Carter fears that she has become the serial bridesmaid and when she likens her current dress to her looking like “a unicorn farted a neon rainbow” I just knew that this was going to be a great read.
Abbie is convinced that she will never meet her knight in shining armor, that is until her eyes meet Miller Davis, the best man and he winks at her across the church. That is enough to have Abbie falling over, throwing her bouquet into the mother of the brides face and generally making a spectacle of herself in front of everyone – of course Miller rushes in to save Abbie from herself and thus begins the adventure.
Miller is equally smitten with Abbie, so what could go wrong? The fact that she lives in a little village in England and he lives in New York, is just a minor detail. Or is it?
The chemistry between Abbie and Miller was off the charts and their banter amusing. These two had me smiling so much it hurt; throw in Abbie's best friend Georgie who is totally awesome and away we go.
Never The Bride had so many laugh out loud moments that I was in danger of being thought crazy. In fact, I certainly got more that one odd look whilst reading this on my train trip to work.
I will also admit that I cried on occasion for Abbie, it seemed nothing would work out and I desperately wanted her to have her happily ever after, but would it be with Miller?
The secondary characters in this book made for some cringe worthy moments at times, yet they were so likeable and I think most of us could put our own friends or relatives into the characters at times, I know I certainly could.
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series. Congratulations Ms. Fallowfield you have a winner on your hands.
March 7, 2017
3.5 stars- Cute and silly race to the alter
When I first started this book, I was highlighting like crazy, laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes. Unfortunately, as the book continued the laughter grew less frequent. It started to become a bit too forced and the humor more contrived. I still grinned plenty and thought the story was cute, but it didn’t have the same laugh-out-loud effect it had on me initially.
I hadn’t read this author before, but the writing itself was very good. The characters were all well-developed and quite likable. I liked the dynamic of the small town and the comradery the group of friends and villagers shared. The secondary characters were layered well with their introductions, so it never felt like there was a barrage of personalities to sort through. As a series launch, I think Never the Bride was very successful. The dialogue, inside jokes, and scenes all flowed and it read very quickly. For me, it was just a tad too long to keep me invested. After a while the jokes and craziness Abbie and her friends found herself in became too much like slapstick and I simply wanted to move forward.
The romance between Miller and Abbie was very sweet. I liked Miller as an individual and found Abbie and he fit very well together. I liked how they played off one another and it always felt natural, with the chemistry coming through to the reader. The hurdles the pair faced were a bit relentless at times, and I grew frustrated with the back and forth. However, it did feel believable considering their circumstances. I was glad with how it all capped off and thought it left the reader in the perfect place to continue the series.
Overall, I think this was a well-written romantic comedy that just went a little too long for me. I loved the humor at first, I liked how inside jokes kept coming up throughout the book, and the play on American vs British terms was very clever, but eventually it ran its course. I think had this been shorter, I would have howled with laughter throughout the book. I do think plenty of readers will love Never the Bride and the series the whole way through, but for me it wasn’t enough to keep me returning to Dilbury Village.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
When I first started this book, I was highlighting like crazy, laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes. Unfortunately, as the book continued the laughter grew less frequent. It started to become a bit too forced and the humor more contrived. I still grinned plenty and thought the story was cute, but it didn’t have the same laugh-out-loud effect it had on me initially.
I hadn’t read this author before, but the writing itself was very good. The characters were all well-developed and quite likable. I liked the dynamic of the small town and the comradery the group of friends and villagers shared. The secondary characters were layered well with their introductions, so it never felt like there was a barrage of personalities to sort through. As a series launch, I think Never the Bride was very successful. The dialogue, inside jokes, and scenes all flowed and it read very quickly. For me, it was just a tad too long to keep me invested. After a while the jokes and craziness Abbie and her friends found herself in became too much like slapstick and I simply wanted to move forward.
The romance between Miller and Abbie was very sweet. I liked Miller as an individual and found Abbie and he fit very well together. I liked how they played off one another and it always felt natural, with the chemistry coming through to the reader. The hurdles the pair faced were a bit relentless at times, and I grew frustrated with the back and forth. However, it did feel believable considering their circumstances. I was glad with how it all capped off and thought it left the reader in the perfect place to continue the series.
Overall, I think this was a well-written romantic comedy that just went a little too long for me. I loved the humor at first, I liked how inside jokes kept coming up throughout the book, and the play on American vs British terms was very clever, but eventually it ran its course. I think had this been shorter, I would have howled with laughter throughout the book. I do think plenty of readers will love Never the Bride and the series the whole way through, but for me it wasn’t enough to keep me returning to Dilbury Village.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
February 7, 2017
Charlotte Fallowfield has once again exceeded my expectations.
Never The Bride is a Romantic Comedy at its best, funny, romantic and heartwarming. All good emotions, bottled up in a book.
I’ve laughed so hard at some point that my family thought I was crazy. And then I’ve cried, and smiled again.
I’ve loved Abbie Carter, our heroine, because she is not the clumsy girl I’ve expected her to be. She is quite the opposite: beautiful (even if she didn’t see her like that), very smart, funny, friendly and with a big heart. So big that she doesn’t even care that her unconditional love for her grumpy, farting dog, Mr. Sumo is not reciprocated.
And for each heroine there is an hero: Miller Davis. He’s gorgeous and very rich, but despite his money he loves his privacy and keeping a low profile. He’s not the typical Alpha man-I’m rich-I’m powerful. I’ve loved his sweetness and sense of humor.
Abbie is English, Miller is American, and it’s really funny when he misunderstands British words.
Never The Bride has secondary characters that have a leading role in completing the story. They are as important as the main characters. There is Georgie, Abbie’s best friend and Daphne, a sweet and wise old woman and Abbie’s neighbor. A well sorted trio, with such a strong bond that they are more family than friends. But in this first book of Dilbury Village series, the author introduces some other ones that I hope to see in future installment of this series like Lord Kirkland, Charlie, Quinn and Heath.
What makes this book so great are not only the hilarious scenes about a farting dog riding a train, horny dolphins, flying turds, Winnie the Pooh and pink scooter, but it’s the whole new world that Charlotte Fallowfield has create. A world named Dilbury.
The description of this little village and their resident are so vivid and real that it’s like to be there, to live their story, to breath the fine air of the British countryside.
I miss you Dilbury, I want to be back soon!
Never The Bride is a Romantic Comedy at its best, funny, romantic and heartwarming. All good emotions, bottled up in a book.
I’ve laughed so hard at some point that my family thought I was crazy. And then I’ve cried, and smiled again.
I’ve loved Abbie Carter, our heroine, because she is not the clumsy girl I’ve expected her to be. She is quite the opposite: beautiful (even if she didn’t see her like that), very smart, funny, friendly and with a big heart. So big that she doesn’t even care that her unconditional love for her grumpy, farting dog, Mr. Sumo is not reciprocated.
And for each heroine there is an hero: Miller Davis. He’s gorgeous and very rich, but despite his money he loves his privacy and keeping a low profile. He’s not the typical Alpha man-I’m rich-I’m powerful. I’ve loved his sweetness and sense of humor.
Abbie is English, Miller is American, and it’s really funny when he misunderstands British words.
Never The Bride has secondary characters that have a leading role in completing the story. They are as important as the main characters. There is Georgie, Abbie’s best friend and Daphne, a sweet and wise old woman and Abbie’s neighbor. A well sorted trio, with such a strong bond that they are more family than friends. But in this first book of Dilbury Village series, the author introduces some other ones that I hope to see in future installment of this series like Lord Kirkland, Charlie, Quinn and Heath.
What makes this book so great are not only the hilarious scenes about a farting dog riding a train, horny dolphins, flying turds, Winnie the Pooh and pink scooter, but it’s the whole new world that Charlotte Fallowfield has create. A world named Dilbury.
The description of this little village and their resident are so vivid and real that it’s like to be there, to live their story, to breath the fine air of the British countryside.
I miss you Dilbury, I want to be back soon!
March 12, 2017
After her debut romantic comedy earlier this year, I had high hopes for Charlotte Fallowfield's next venture in this genre, and she did not disappoint! What I loved most was that this was not your average romcom - instead of being a repeat of her hugely successful Until We Collide, Fallowfield took this book in a completely different direction. Yes, girl meets boy and they fall in love. But it almost seemed like a backdrop to several other "love" stories - Abbie and her best friend Georgie, Abbie and her dog Sumo, Abbie and her lovable neighbors, and so on. From the start, I felt like I'd been picked up and dropped right into a quaint little British village, and I fell in love with the setting and the characters. There were several laugh-out-loud moments (my favorite had to be Abbie's discussion with the aging shop owner about which neighbor bought what from the store!), balanced with some poignant ones. All in all, it was an extremely enjoyable read, and I can't wait to find out what's in store for my new Dilbury friends!
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