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Wedding Belles: A Novel in Four Parts
Harper is an event planner with dreams of taking over the Charleston wedding scene . . . until she meets the biggest Bridezilla of her career. She needs the job, but the only way to keep it is to hire a temperamental chef with big dreams of his own.
Janie is a classical cellist booked to play a posh Charleston wedding. She’s excited to have the lucrative gig until the groom’s brother, Emmett, shows up and asks her to help him play a song he wrote for the happy couple. The only trouble? Emmett is her unrequited high school crush.
Lily has been Dahlia's best friend, partner-in-crime, and now her maid of honor . . . until suddenly there's no wedding, and she's left to clean up Dahlia's biggest mess of all. She's been friends with Deacon, the jilted groom, for just as long, and it's up to her rescue him after Hurricane Dahlia blows through.
Sutton is a photographer running from her past. Only the pleas from her best friend to photograph her wedding could bring Sutton back to Charleston. Her plan is to get in and get out before her ex knows she and their daughter are in town. At least it’s the plan until she meets Max, who turns out to be the safe place she didn’t know she was looking for.
Can each of these couples trust their growing chemistry, or are they on the verge of new disasters?
Janie is a classical cellist booked to play a posh Charleston wedding. She’s excited to have the lucrative gig until the groom’s brother, Emmett, shows up and asks her to help him play a song he wrote for the happy couple. The only trouble? Emmett is her unrequited high school crush.
Lily has been Dahlia's best friend, partner-in-crime, and now her maid of honor . . . until suddenly there's no wedding, and she's left to clean up Dahlia's biggest mess of all. She's been friends with Deacon, the jilted groom, for just as long, and it's up to her rescue him after Hurricane Dahlia blows through.
Sutton is a photographer running from her past. Only the pleas from her best friend to photograph her wedding could bring Sutton back to Charleston. Her plan is to get in and get out before her ex knows she and their daughter are in town. At least it’s the plan until she meets Max, who turns out to be the safe place she didn’t know she was looking for.
Can each of these couples trust their growing chemistry, or are they on the verge of new disasters?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2018
161 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 22, 2018
Cute romance time! This novel is actually more like a set of four interwoven romance novellas, by four authors, all writing about overlapping events surrounding a Charleston high society wedding. Each novella focuses on a different set of main characters, many of whom are secondary characters in one or more of the other novellas. It's a nice concept, and I think the four authors had fun with it. The authors' different parts mesh fairly well; I didn't really notice a lot of stylistic differences between them.
The four parts:
"Harper and Zak" by Melanie Jacobson: Harper Day is the stressed-out wedding event planner for the elegant wedding of Deacon Calhoun and Dahlia Ravenel. Zak is the would-be caterer who pitches Harper for a shot at catering the wedding dinner. She turns him down flat: Zak's creative cuisine is far from the traditional food that she knows the mother of the bride will demand. But when Dahlia turns out to be impatient and unwilling to accept a traditional wedding dinner, Harper considers giving Zak another chance. And possibly a romantic chance as well?
Jacobson (my very favorite clean romance novelist) creates strong and interesting characters. Zak is Korean-American, a tattooed former New York chef with big dreams and interesting ideas that he's having trouble making happen in Charleston. Harper doesn't think their lives will ever mesh, just like Dahlia's and her mother's ideas of the right wedding food will never mesh. It's an engaging story, not as witty as Jacobson's stories usually are, but I enjoyed it.
"Janie and Emmett" by Jenny Proctor: Janie Middleton is a professional classical cellist; her quartet has been booked to play Deacon and Dahlia's wedding. She's happy about the opportunity ... at least until Deacon's brother Emmett asks her to also play with him on a song he wrote for his brother's wedding. Emmett doesn't know that she spent her high school years crushing on him, and Janie is afraid that she'll just get hurt if she spends time with Emmett again. Meanwhile, Janie's twin sister Mallory doesn't approve when Janie and Emmett start spending time together.
I also enjoyed this part of the story a lot. Once-unrequited crushes that start to turn into a real relationships are always appealing for me, and the main characters felt real (though Mallory not so much). I liked the subplot about Emmett's career issues, music vs. law.
"Lily and Deacon" by Becca Wilhite: When the big wedding day arrives, guess who takes off: Dahlia, the bride. Lily, her cousin, friend and would-be maid of honor, is left holding the pieces and trying to help her long-time friend Deacon recover after the woman he's doted on for so many years dumps him at the altar. It's a super slow burn romance here, but in this case it makes a lot of sense how it plays out.
"Sutton and Max" by Brittany Larsen: In this final piece of the wedding puzzle, we have Sutton, the wedding photographer who's hiding from her abusive ex-husband, along with her young daughter Hadley. Sutton feels like she's taking a big risk even returning to Charleston from New York, but Dahlia's an old friend. At the called-off wedding, Sutton meets Deacon's friend Max, who likes both Sutton and Hadley and treats them gently. But after the night is over, Max and Sutton can't figure out how to get in contact with each other again. Everything seems to conspire to keep them apart, kind of like the movie Serendipity, and it gets rather farcical before a much-too-quick ending.
All in all, these characters were fun to spend an evening with. Recommended for clean, light romance fans. No religious content.
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review. Thanks!
The four parts:
"Harper and Zak" by Melanie Jacobson: Harper Day is the stressed-out wedding event planner for the elegant wedding of Deacon Calhoun and Dahlia Ravenel. Zak is the would-be caterer who pitches Harper for a shot at catering the wedding dinner. She turns him down flat: Zak's creative cuisine is far from the traditional food that she knows the mother of the bride will demand. But when Dahlia turns out to be impatient and unwilling to accept a traditional wedding dinner, Harper considers giving Zak another chance. And possibly a romantic chance as well?
Jacobson (my very favorite clean romance novelist) creates strong and interesting characters. Zak is Korean-American, a tattooed former New York chef with big dreams and interesting ideas that he's having trouble making happen in Charleston. Harper doesn't think their lives will ever mesh, just like Dahlia's and her mother's ideas of the right wedding food will never mesh. It's an engaging story, not as witty as Jacobson's stories usually are, but I enjoyed it.
"Janie and Emmett" by Jenny Proctor: Janie Middleton is a professional classical cellist; her quartet has been booked to play Deacon and Dahlia's wedding. She's happy about the opportunity ... at least until Deacon's brother Emmett asks her to also play with him on a song he wrote for his brother's wedding. Emmett doesn't know that she spent her high school years crushing on him, and Janie is afraid that she'll just get hurt if she spends time with Emmett again. Meanwhile, Janie's twin sister Mallory doesn't approve when Janie and Emmett start spending time together.
I also enjoyed this part of the story a lot. Once-unrequited crushes that start to turn into a real relationships are always appealing for me, and the main characters felt real (though Mallory not so much). I liked the subplot about Emmett's career issues, music vs. law.
"Lily and Deacon" by Becca Wilhite: When the big wedding day arrives, guess who takes off: Dahlia, the bride. Lily, her cousin, friend and would-be maid of honor, is left holding the pieces and trying to help her long-time friend Deacon recover after the woman he's doted on for so many years dumps him at the altar. It's a super slow burn romance here, but in this case it makes a lot of sense how it plays out.
"Sutton and Max" by Brittany Larsen: In this final piece of the wedding puzzle, we have Sutton, the wedding photographer who's hiding from her abusive ex-husband, along with her young daughter Hadley. Sutton feels like she's taking a big risk even returning to Charleston from New York, but Dahlia's an old friend. At the called-off wedding, Sutton meets Deacon's friend Max, who likes both Sutton and Hadley and treats them gently. But after the night is over, Max and Sutton can't figure out how to get in contact with each other again. Everything seems to conspire to keep them apart, kind of like the movie Serendipity, and it gets rather farcical before a much-too-quick ending.
All in all, these characters were fun to spend an evening with. Recommended for clean, light romance fans. No religious content.
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review. Thanks!
October 17, 2018
I'm in love with love!
What a fun idea! I loved having a collection of stories from favorite authors that tells different points-of-view revolving around the same event, and what better event to revolve around than a wedding in South Carolina!
We are first introduced to the wedding planner, Harper. I loved how her story meshed into the world of Korean food and Zac. Emmett, the groom's brother, has a potential second chance at romance with Janie, which leads us to the maid-of-honor, Lily, who has been friends with the groom, Deacon, for as long as she has the bride. Sutton, the photographer, is also a close friend of the bride's and this sentimental story has a lot to do with the groom's friend, Max.
See? This book is so fabulously interconnected and each installment flows flawlessly into the next one, giving the reader a deeper glimpse inside this much anticipated event, while throwing swoon like the petals from the flower girl's basket.
I have to admit that I was quite impressed with the way these authors gelled their voices together so well, yet gave unique perspectives to this special occasion. I smiled; I got a bit teary-eyed; I felt a little feisty; I fell in love; and I definitely swooned. I'm hoping for another collaboration in the near future!
Content: mild romance; some mild innuendo
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
What a fun idea! I loved having a collection of stories from favorite authors that tells different points-of-view revolving around the same event, and what better event to revolve around than a wedding in South Carolina!
We are first introduced to the wedding planner, Harper. I loved how her story meshed into the world of Korean food and Zac. Emmett, the groom's brother, has a potential second chance at romance with Janie, which leads us to the maid-of-honor, Lily, who has been friends with the groom, Deacon, for as long as she has the bride. Sutton, the photographer, is also a close friend of the bride's and this sentimental story has a lot to do with the groom's friend, Max.
See? This book is so fabulously interconnected and each installment flows flawlessly into the next one, giving the reader a deeper glimpse inside this much anticipated event, while throwing swoon like the petals from the flower girl's basket.
I have to admit that I was quite impressed with the way these authors gelled their voices together so well, yet gave unique perspectives to this special occasion. I smiled; I got a bit teary-eyed; I felt a little feisty; I fell in love; and I definitely swooned. I'm hoping for another collaboration in the near future!
Content: mild romance; some mild innuendo
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
September 26, 2018
This was such an extremely fun project to work on with Becca, Brittany, and Jenny. We've talked about doing this for a few years, but we finally talked it out in detail this spring to figure out what a story written by the four of us could be. We knew we wanted something charming and atmospheric and lovely and FUN. And so this Charleston tale of the Wedding Belles was born. I think you'll be delighted. I really do.
November 5, 2018
Such a cute book! This one has 4 stories all be different authors that are all connected by a wedding.
I loved 3 of these stories and liked the 4th one. I highly recommend you check out this book!
There is an instance or two of mild language in a couple of the stories but it is otherwise clean.
I loved 3 of these stories and liked the 4th one. I highly recommend you check out this book!
There is an instance or two of mild language in a couple of the stories but it is otherwise clean.
October 27, 2018
Loved this idea and book!! Four authors each writing a part of a book that takes place at the same time around the same event--a wedding in Charleston, South Carolina. I've previously read a series where each author wrote a book about a character and all the characters were in all the books, and I've read collections where authors all wrote about a common theme, but this idea seemed to combine the two and it worked!! I was already familiar with three of the authors and found another new one to check out.
We start off with the wedding coordinator Harper who's trying to find a menu that will satisfy Dahlia, the bride, who's unconventional and doesn't want to serve meat at the reception, and the mother of the bride, who is traditional all the way. She meets up with Zak, a Korean fusion chef, who's trying to break into the Charleston food scene. This leads us to Emmett, the best man and brother of the groom, who's performing a special song at the reception and asks Janie, a cellist with the Charleston Symphony, and someone he went to high school with, to accompany him on the song. Moving along we meet Lily, maid-of-honor and best friend of the bride. Finally we're introduced to Sutton, the wedding photographer and Max, one of the groomsmen.
I loved that every couple got a happy ending, even Dahlia, who I thought was beyond redemption. Kudos to the writer who pulled that off. Being born and bred in Louisiana I love the old parts of Southern towns especially the mansions with manicured lawns, so I could easily picture the William Aiken house where this takes place. I thought that each author's story flowed easily into the next one and it didn't feel as if I were reading a different book.
The stories are swoony and produced a range of emotions as I read--astonishment, incredulity (new word for me), happiness, and laughter. One of my favorite lines is from Brittany Larsen's part "Sutton and Max" and it made me laugh out loud. "the man and woman broke apart faster than a Kardashian marriage." I hope this isn't the end of these authors collaborating on "novel in four parts".
We start off with the wedding coordinator Harper who's trying to find a menu that will satisfy Dahlia, the bride, who's unconventional and doesn't want to serve meat at the reception, and the mother of the bride, who is traditional all the way. She meets up with Zak, a Korean fusion chef, who's trying to break into the Charleston food scene. This leads us to Emmett, the best man and brother of the groom, who's performing a special song at the reception and asks Janie, a cellist with the Charleston Symphony, and someone he went to high school with, to accompany him on the song. Moving along we meet Lily, maid-of-honor and best friend of the bride. Finally we're introduced to Sutton, the wedding photographer and Max, one of the groomsmen.
I loved that every couple got a happy ending, even Dahlia, who I thought was beyond redemption. Kudos to the writer who pulled that off. Being born and bred in Louisiana I love the old parts of Southern towns especially the mansions with manicured lawns, so I could easily picture the William Aiken house where this takes place. I thought that each author's story flowed easily into the next one and it didn't feel as if I were reading a different book.
The stories are swoony and produced a range of emotions as I read--astonishment, incredulity (new word for me), happiness, and laughter. One of my favorite lines is from Brittany Larsen's part "Sutton and Max" and it made me laugh out loud. "the man and woman broke apart faster than a Kardashian marriage." I hope this isn't the end of these authors collaborating on "novel in four parts".
October 27, 2018
Four of my favorite authors in one romantic book made this an auto-buy! What makes this book unique is that it has one continuous storyline but contains four separate stories within; A novel in four parts. I loved each of the characters, the unique and engaging voices, and of course the ROMANCE! This book was an easy read that I didn't want to put down. Highly recommend!
October 24, 2018
Oh my, what a great collection of stories! I try not to use this word too much, but it really is swoony! Each couple had a bit of a journey to take to finally come together, and I thoroughly enjoyed the ride for each. I loved how the four stories weave together in subtle ways, connected through the big Charleston wedding, but also stand so well on their own. I also thought the choice to have the timeline start before the wedding and finish after was smart and it kept me interested and engaged to have the majority of each story occur at a different point in time with some overlap. I seriously can't decide which one was my favorite, I loved them all equally. The personalities and circumstances of each couple are distinct and unique, but something they all share is fabulous romantic tension and amazing kissing scenes! Highly recommend to fans of sweet contemporary romance!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
October 26, 2018
I'm so glad I got to read this book! I just adored it. These authors did a fantastic job of creating a world of characters around one specific event- a wedding gone wrong. Each story was individual and unique but it was that wedding link and some references to characters in the other stories that gave it that feeling of continuity and community. We see the wedding from the viewpoints of the wedding planner, the brother and a performer, the maid of honor and the groom, and the photographer and groomsman.
I loved the Charleston setting and the clear "southern" influence. Although, one story is set mostly in New York and that was fun too!
There is definitely no favorite for me in this collection. I loved them all and I think this was a very fun idea. I hope these authors will do this again!
Content: clean romance, kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved the Charleston setting and the clear "southern" influence. Although, one story is set mostly in New York and that was fun too!
There is definitely no favorite for me in this collection. I loved them all and I think this was a very fun idea. I hope these authors will do this again!
Content: clean romance, kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 27, 2018
***4.5 stars***
I loved the unique way this novel was presented. There are four stories that revolve around one event. Two prominent Charleston families will be joined as their children marry. It is a huge celebration with many people involved.
This story looks at four different aspects of the wedding: the wedding planner, the caterer, the string quartet, the maid of honor, and the photographer. The wedding flopped, but because of it a few great romances were set into motion.
I loved how seamlessly the stories came together. It took a lot of work and preparation for the author's to pull this off. I was very impressed at how talented each of them are. This book is worth reading. There are a few more people in the book who I would love to see find a happy romance, I hope that this is not the last "novel in four parts" book that I read from them.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I loved the unique way this novel was presented. There are four stories that revolve around one event. Two prominent Charleston families will be joined as their children marry. It is a huge celebration with many people involved.
This story looks at four different aspects of the wedding: the wedding planner, the caterer, the string quartet, the maid of honor, and the photographer. The wedding flopped, but because of it a few great romances were set into motion.
I loved how seamlessly the stories came together. It took a lot of work and preparation for the author's to pull this off. I was very impressed at how talented each of them are. This book is worth reading. There are a few more people in the book who I would love to see find a happy romance, I hope that this is not the last "novel in four parts" book that I read from them.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
October 29, 2018
Wedding Belles is an absolute treat from start to finish. I loved loved loved how this book was written and how the different parts tie together. It is so hard to pick a favorite because each part is very unique and delightful. There was one character in particular that makes an appearance in each book and (without revealing anything) I was pleased with the ending of her story. Because she was hard to like. Each author did a great job of telling a story that were related but different enough to stand alone. So fun and very well done.
October 16, 2018
When four of your favorite authors get together to write a book, you simply have to read it. This book was truly a delight! When I began reading, I didn’t know that all four stories would weave together so beautifully, and it was a magnificent surprise. I was a little skeptical of how the flow and transition would work with four different authors, but all the stories effortlessly fit together and the authors did a beautiful job interlacing these characters together. Not only did the authors write charmingly together, their stories were downright superb. It seemed that around every corner a new character or detail was revealed that made me squeal with delight. First it was Harper and Zak’s initial interaction, then it was the fact that it took place in a town I so desperately want to visit, after that it was a high school crush I could totally relate to, an Alexander Hamilton shout-out, and so much more. Even though I received a kindle copy, I may just have to go out and buy a hardcopy to add to my bookshelf!
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
October 14, 2018
Wedding Belles
Four great authors all in one book!
Melanie Jacobson, Jenny Proctor, Becca Wilhite, Brittany Larsen. I have read single books by all these authors and was so excited to read a book where they all had a part in developing the story.
I LOVED that these four novellas connected with each other. Each part adds to the previous section while having its own storyline and characters.
These stories play out in Charleston, SC and there's some good southern charm going on. Harper and Zac, Janie and Emmett, Lily and Deacon, Sutton and Max. You root for them to find their way to make it work. And more than likely, you can see something of yourself or someone you know in one of the characters or relationships.
Warning - once you start, you won't want to stop reading!
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
Four great authors all in one book!
Melanie Jacobson, Jenny Proctor, Becca Wilhite, Brittany Larsen. I have read single books by all these authors and was so excited to read a book where they all had a part in developing the story.
I LOVED that these four novellas connected with each other. Each part adds to the previous section while having its own storyline and characters.
These stories play out in Charleston, SC and there's some good southern charm going on. Harper and Zac, Janie and Emmett, Lily and Deacon, Sutton and Max. You root for them to find their way to make it work. And more than likely, you can see something of yourself or someone you know in one of the characters or relationships.
Warning - once you start, you won't want to stop reading!
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
October 17, 2018
Romance, clean; mild language and excessive drinking in one novella
Gorgeous, lush, beautifully heartfelt romantic read. The pre-wedding, and post-wedding fall-out from Deacon and Dahlia's wedding was so beautifully told in four novellas, dealing with the caterer and wedding planner, the best man and the cellist, the groom and maid of honor, and the photographer and one of the groomsmen.
Honest heartfelt characters, lovely back stories, and beautiful falls. Magical, romance at it's best. Gifted authors spinning interwoven stories of some great characters. Small cameo at the end, that I almost didn't want to see, but it played it's part. All of them with well developed main characters, great chemistry, and beautiful falls. Perfect read!
I think of all of them, Janie and Emmett's story tugged at my heart the most. I am a sucker for music in a story, but they were all lovely reads. Well worth every penny!
Gorgeous, lush, beautifully heartfelt romantic read. The pre-wedding, and post-wedding fall-out from Deacon and Dahlia's wedding was so beautifully told in four novellas, dealing with the caterer and wedding planner, the best man and the cellist, the groom and maid of honor, and the photographer and one of the groomsmen.
Honest heartfelt characters, lovely back stories, and beautiful falls. Magical, romance at it's best. Gifted authors spinning interwoven stories of some great characters. Small cameo at the end, that I almost didn't want to see, but it played it's part. All of them with well developed main characters, great chemistry, and beautiful falls. Perfect read!
I think of all of them, Janie and Emmett's story tugged at my heart the most. I am a sucker for music in a story, but they were all lovely reads. Well worth every penny!
October 16, 2018
Soooooo swoony!
What's better than a gorgeous romance written by a favorite author? Four romances squeezed into one scrummy novel by four amazing authors, that's what! Sigh. This book. So good. The kissing scenes? Amazing. I think I'll read it again.Tomorrow, probably.
What's better than a gorgeous romance written by a favorite author? Four romances squeezed into one scrummy novel by four amazing authors, that's what! Sigh. This book. So good. The kissing scenes? Amazing. I think I'll read it again.Tomorrow, probably.
January 7, 2019
Really liked the first three stories!
The last one was a bit off. I understood where the author wanted to go with it (like the movie Serendipity), but it fell short.
The last one was a bit off. I understood where the author wanted to go with it (like the movie Serendipity), but it fell short.
October 30, 2018
This book is amazing! It’s written by four of my favorite authors: Melanie Jacobson, Jenny Proctor, Becca Wilhite and Brittany Larsen. The way these four wrote the book is way different than any I’ve ever seen. They are all writing about the same event, Dahlia and Deacon’s wedding. But the first book starts the story and the rest just kind of build on it. I loved each of the stories in this book!
Part 1: Harper and Zak is written by Melanie Jacobson. Harper is the wedding planner for Dahlia’s wedding. Only Dahlia is the most demanding bride ever and she wants to take Charleston, South Carolina by storm, while her mom wants a very traditional wedding. I loved the way Harper had to think outside the box to make things work for Dahlia and her mom. Thinking outside the box leads Harper to Zak.
Zak is an Asian Fusion chef. He has a food truck and he’s trying to break in to Charleston’s dining options. This is super hard in the super traditional area. But somehow, he makes an impression on Harper and she decides to give him a shot. It helps that she loves his food!
I loved watching these two fall in love over food and a wedding. I loved how Harper thought there was no way they’d ever work, but Zak has to work to make her think there’s a chance for them.
Part 2: Janie and Emmett is by Jenny Proctor. Her books always include a bit of music. And this section is no different.
Janie has been in love with Emmett since high school. She never dreamed he’d look her way. But Emmett needs someone to play the cello in his solo for the wedding. And they hit it off. But there are many obstacles for these two, including Janie’s twin sister Mallory who remembers everything that happened in high school. She convinces Janie that there’s no way she and Emmett will work out.
I loved that Janie was willing to take a chance, even though things were uncertain in their relationship. And Emmett….I really hope great things for his music.
Part 3: Lily and…well. I’m going to leave that one like that so I don’t ruin anything for anyone. This one is by Becca Wilhite. I was the most surprised by this section. I loved the characters and I loved the way they worked together to get through everything that happens. I’m being deliberately vague, sorry. But you’ll just have to read it so there are no spoilers for anyone! I do love the way the party just goes on in this one, regardless of what happened. I think that would have been hard for all involved to just go with it.
And then there’s Part 4: Sutton and Max by Brittany Larsen. I loved Sutton in this one. I loved the way she had to work so hard to look out for her sweet little one, Hadley. But when she finds her with Max and it’s obvious Hadley is okay, Sutton is able to finish her job as wedding photographer.
My very favorite thing about this one had to be Max. I loved the way he went out of his way to leave clues for Sutton about who he was, what he liked and even his phone number. But…fate had other ideas. Both of their phone numbers had been disconnected. And just when you think all hope is lost…there’s a chance sighting.
And the way the whole story is tied up by this one is just perfect!
I loved each and every one of these stories. I loved being transported to Charleston. It’s a town I’ve not visited yet, but it’s definitely moved up on my list. Go get this book! I hope you love it as much as I did!
Part 1: Harper and Zak is written by Melanie Jacobson. Harper is the wedding planner for Dahlia’s wedding. Only Dahlia is the most demanding bride ever and she wants to take Charleston, South Carolina by storm, while her mom wants a very traditional wedding. I loved the way Harper had to think outside the box to make things work for Dahlia and her mom. Thinking outside the box leads Harper to Zak.
Zak is an Asian Fusion chef. He has a food truck and he’s trying to break in to Charleston’s dining options. This is super hard in the super traditional area. But somehow, he makes an impression on Harper and she decides to give him a shot. It helps that she loves his food!
I loved watching these two fall in love over food and a wedding. I loved how Harper thought there was no way they’d ever work, but Zak has to work to make her think there’s a chance for them.
Part 2: Janie and Emmett is by Jenny Proctor. Her books always include a bit of music. And this section is no different.
Janie has been in love with Emmett since high school. She never dreamed he’d look her way. But Emmett needs someone to play the cello in his solo for the wedding. And they hit it off. But there are many obstacles for these two, including Janie’s twin sister Mallory who remembers everything that happened in high school. She convinces Janie that there’s no way she and Emmett will work out.
I loved that Janie was willing to take a chance, even though things were uncertain in their relationship. And Emmett….I really hope great things for his music.
Part 3: Lily and…well. I’m going to leave that one like that so I don’t ruin anything for anyone. This one is by Becca Wilhite. I was the most surprised by this section. I loved the characters and I loved the way they worked together to get through everything that happens. I’m being deliberately vague, sorry. But you’ll just have to read it so there are no spoilers for anyone! I do love the way the party just goes on in this one, regardless of what happened. I think that would have been hard for all involved to just go with it.
And then there’s Part 4: Sutton and Max by Brittany Larsen. I loved Sutton in this one. I loved the way she had to work so hard to look out for her sweet little one, Hadley. But when she finds her with Max and it’s obvious Hadley is okay, Sutton is able to finish her job as wedding photographer.
My very favorite thing about this one had to be Max. I loved the way he went out of his way to leave clues for Sutton about who he was, what he liked and even his phone number. But…fate had other ideas. Both of their phone numbers had been disconnected. And just when you think all hope is lost…there’s a chance sighting.
And the way the whole story is tied up by this one is just perfect!
I loved each and every one of these stories. I loved being transported to Charleston. It’s a town I’ve not visited yet, but it’s definitely moved up on my list. Go get this book! I hope you love it as much as I did!
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October 29, 2018Some of my favorite authors have joined together on a unique project presenting four connected novellas. Each one of the books presents a different couple, but builds on the same setting and backdrop as the rest of the books. It was really fun!
I loved that the novellas were set in Charleston, SC. I have always wanted to visit there and this gave me a little glimpse into how wonderful the culture and places truly would be to see firsthand!
The first story is about Harper and Zak and it was hard to put down! They were so cute and funny with just the right amount of angst. It was the perfect opener. (My favorite part was the carnival ride. Zak was so embarrassed and his way to make it up to Harper was sweet.) I think they were my favorite couple, but it was hard to choose!
Then we go to Janie and Emmett, a sweet second chance romance. Who wouldn't want to be able to see if things really could work out with their high school crush? I loved how Janie was living her dream and knew Emmett so well already and he really saw Janie (and had in high school as well). (Janie's sister was a bit of a killjoy, but it was understandable with her circumstances.) Both of the main characters were really relatable as they sorted through all the feelings on their journey to love.
The third part was Lily and Deacon. This one was emotional, but had several laugh out loud moments and will definitely have you up late reading to see if they find their happily-ever-after! They just have some really great chemistry and while they did have a lot of things to work through, it was a sweet story.
The fourth one was so swoon-worthy and fun. I loved seeing how Sutton and Max connected and had to try so hard to find their way back to each other. They had some really difficult trials! But I loved seeing a bit of all the other characters at the end and have the ending that ties everything together. Loved it.
Each author really outdid themselves in providing a sweet romance that had just the right amount of details and a fleshed out story. Sometimes in novellas that is not the case, but this book balanced that perfectly. Really well done.
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
I loved that the novellas were set in Charleston, SC. I have always wanted to visit there and this gave me a little glimpse into how wonderful the culture and places truly would be to see firsthand!
The first story is about Harper and Zak and it was hard to put down! They were so cute and funny with just the right amount of angst. It was the perfect opener. (My favorite part was the carnival ride. Zak was so embarrassed and his way to make it up to Harper was sweet.) I think they were my favorite couple, but it was hard to choose!
Then we go to Janie and Emmett, a sweet second chance romance. Who wouldn't want to be able to see if things really could work out with their high school crush? I loved how Janie was living her dream and knew Emmett so well already and he really saw Janie (and had in high school as well). (Janie's sister was a bit of a killjoy, but it was understandable with her circumstances.) Both of the main characters were really relatable as they sorted through all the feelings on their journey to love.
The third part was Lily and Deacon. This one was emotional, but had several laugh out loud moments and will definitely have you up late reading to see if they find their happily-ever-after! They just have some really great chemistry and while they did have a lot of things to work through, it was a sweet story.
The fourth one was so swoon-worthy and fun. I loved seeing how Sutton and Max connected and had to try so hard to find their way back to each other. They had some really difficult trials! But I loved seeing a bit of all the other characters at the end and have the ending that ties everything together. Loved it.
Each author really outdid themselves in providing a sweet romance that had just the right amount of details and a fleshed out story. Sometimes in novellas that is not the case, but this book balanced that perfectly. Really well done.
Originally reviewed on http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
October 22, 2018
I loved the balance Melanie Jacobson created between Harper and Zak’s differences and similarities. I felt we got just enough background to each of them while also creating tension and pull. Melanie wonderfully set the stage for the disaster to come while keeping Harper and Zak’s story their own.
This was a delightful part of the story. Jenny Proctor really pulled in our empathy by contrasting Janie with her twin and Emmett with his brother. It gave us a deeper connection to the characters. I loved how she wrote Janie’s growth and strength to be more than she was in High School and stand up for herself. The part that really made their story blossom was Emmett’s persistence. The way she wrote how the two characters struggled to find their footing, but overall gave each other direction and confidence made for an excellent love story.
My favorite part of Lily and Deacon’s story is how genuine it was. The whole jilted groom finding love again with the best friend could have gone so many ways, and I love how Becca Wilhite handled it. She did an excellent job of exposing Deacon’s emotions, the humiliation, the grief, the heartbreak and the relief. It was very well done. I loved how there wasn’t even any thought of something between the two of them until after Dahlia was gone, it made it feel honest and beautiful. Becca Wilhite infused emotions good and bad into the disaster and made it shine.
Sutton was a fun character to read about and Brittany Larsen did a great job of setting up her background so we could feel her fears and her strengths. We got a little bit less of that from Max and I would’ve liked to see him fleshed out more, because what we did get was endearing. The will they wont they until the very last second was written very well, you could feel their longing and their connection. It worked well, it’s just not my favorite type of plot.
The overall book flowed flawlessly from one author to the next and they pulled in little pieces from each other, it was a really fun read.
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This was a delightful part of the story. Jenny Proctor really pulled in our empathy by contrasting Janie with her twin and Emmett with his brother. It gave us a deeper connection to the characters. I loved how she wrote Janie’s growth and strength to be more than she was in High School and stand up for herself. The part that really made their story blossom was Emmett’s persistence. The way she wrote how the two characters struggled to find their footing, but overall gave each other direction and confidence made for an excellent love story.
My favorite part of Lily and Deacon’s story is how genuine it was. The whole jilted groom finding love again with the best friend could have gone so many ways, and I love how Becca Wilhite handled it. She did an excellent job of exposing Deacon’s emotions, the humiliation, the grief, the heartbreak and the relief. It was very well done. I loved how there wasn’t even any thought of something between the two of them until after Dahlia was gone, it made it feel honest and beautiful. Becca Wilhite infused emotions good and bad into the disaster and made it shine.
Sutton was a fun character to read about and Brittany Larsen did a great job of setting up her background so we could feel her fears and her strengths. We got a little bit less of that from Max and I would’ve liked to see him fleshed out more, because what we did get was endearing. The will they wont they until the very last second was written very well, you could feel their longing and their connection. It worked well, it’s just not my favorite type of plot.
The overall book flowed flawlessly from one author to the next and they pulled in little pieces from each other, it was a really fun read.
https://bookconfessionsblog.wordpress...
October 17, 2018
I absolutely LOVED this book! I couldn't put it down. I think Melanie Jacobson, Jenny Proctor, Becca Wilhite, and Brittany Larsen all did a fantastic job! Great collaboration between the authors. Part 1 was a perfect starter, perfect part 4 (I can't say 'ending' because it didn't feel like it was the characters' ending!), and Jenny and Becca did an amazing job for parts 2 and 3! I'm so glad they worked on this book together, too. I love each of these authors, and they truly made this a great book by adding all their talents together the way they worked it. I love that this all stemmed from one couple's plan to get married, and that we were able to see others' lives changed and affected from that one plan. I felt like I really got to know the characters in each part, which doesn't always happen. The right amount of detail where it was helpful for me as a reader (I prefer reading more conversations between the main and supportive characters to help me get to know them), and of course I loved the banter! And part 4 was so perfect for the ending. It was killing me! I didn't dare put the book down because of what I wanted to see happen. The ending was great though-- a perfect ending for those characters, and I loved that he also fell in love with her daughter!
Thank you to the authors! The only question I have now is-- are the authors going to fill us in on the other characters that we met in the book, or do another collaboration similar to this one? I'm keeping my fingers crossed!
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
Thank you to the authors! The only question I have now is-- are the authors going to fill us in on the other characters that we met in the book, or do another collaboration similar to this one? I'm keeping my fingers crossed!
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
October 23, 2018
I have loved reading this new novel in four parts by four fantastic authors! There are four different stories within this one book. Start at the beginning and visit lovely Charleston, South Carolina as you get to know four different couples and fall in love! I've read several books by Melanie Jacobson and Jenny Proctor so I knew I would love this set. It was especially fun to be introduced to the writing styles of Becca Wilhite and Brittany Larsen. I enjoyed how each story was layered with connecting points to the other stories in the book. Having written a series collaborated in Echo Ridge, I know how tricky it can be to get all the moving parts working together. I thought it was fantastic how these authors were even able to develop foreshadowing for the other stories coming up--great job ladies!
These clean romances had plenty of spirit and spark in them. The characters were fun to get to know and I liked the range of unique personalities and interests. From food truck chefs to cellists, this novel has something for everyone to fall in love with. Oh, and the setting! I think I need to go visit Charleston, SC now!
These clean romances had plenty of spirit and spark in them. The characters were fun to get to know and I liked the range of unique personalities and interests. From food truck chefs to cellists, this novel has something for everyone to fall in love with. Oh, and the setting! I think I need to go visit Charleston, SC now!
October 24, 2018
Adorable!
I loved this collection of stories! There were four stories each based on a couple involved in the wedding of the year is Charleston, SC.
My favorite was Harper and Zac. I loved the tension between them as Harper tried to keep Zac in the friend zone, and he patiently showed her that they were meant for more than friendship. I especially loved their games of pool!
Sweet romances, southern manners, and some good kissing.
I loved this collection of stories! There were four stories each based on a couple involved in the wedding of the year is Charleston, SC.
My favorite was Harper and Zac. I loved the tension between them as Harper tried to keep Zac in the friend zone, and he patiently showed her that they were meant for more than friendship. I especially loved their games of pool!
Sweet romances, southern manners, and some good kissing.
August 21, 2019
Pretty cute book!
May 5, 2019
Four and a half stars for this fun read!! Wedding Belles is the story of four couples told around the scaffolding of a high society Charleston wedding. Each relationship story is delicious, with the fun banter and sizzling romance these authors are known for. The first story sets up the overall structure, and then each additional relationship story fills in more details along the way. The end of the 4th story brings a sigh of relief as all of the stories are complete and all of the characters (who we now love) are happy. I’ve never read a book that was set up like this before and really enjoyed it—so thanks to all of you!! Read it, you won’t be sorry!
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
February 8, 2020
This was an interesting read. I liked the way the novellas were written and how they all intertwined with one another, even if there are 4 distinct voices that you can identify from the 4 authors. I also really liked the setting of Charleston. I've never been there but now I'm interested in visiting the place and feeling the "old Southern roots" there were talked about heavily in the stories.
In the first one, we learn about a wedding planner that meets a chef that steers away from the traditional food choices that most rich Charlestonians believe in. They become acquainted and then realizes that there's a chemistry that is undeniable. I thought the scenes in the billiard hall were pretty fun and I loved how the guy, Zac, took his time in getting to know the girl. That was sweet
In the second one we follow two musicians. The girl is a classical cellist while the guy is torn between following the path that his parents laid out for him or going for his passion, which is country music. They've known each other in high school so there's a past there. This was also a cute story, although not my favorite one.
In the third one we meet a jilted groom and his girl BFF. They were previously introduced in the first story. Even then, I kind of knew that they would end up together. Something about the way the scene was laid out, with her putting her hand on his thigh that made me think there's more to them than friendship, at least for the girl. Nothing sensual, but just that affectionate move made me think that they'll end up together. I wasn't too keen with the flow of this story too. I felt like their turning towards each other was through a shared sadness. I mean if they really had strong feelings for each other, how come they never acted on it. I felt that both were a little bit naive or that their feelings, once it was revealed wasn't as strong and true as they make it out to be.
The last one was about a photographer and a friend of the jilted groom. This one was a story of love at first sight. They both had an attraction for each other but because of fear and awkwardness they never bothered exchanging numbers. They went through a whole year of trying to find each other, but was unsuccessful before they finally met again and in their reunion, there was no awkwardness, just pure joy of meeting up again. I don't know if I really buy that.
Over all, the stories were easy to read, the flow was ok and the stories, albeit rather predictable, was entertaining.
In the first one, we learn about a wedding planner that meets a chef that steers away from the traditional food choices that most rich Charlestonians believe in. They become acquainted and then realizes that there's a chemistry that is undeniable. I thought the scenes in the billiard hall were pretty fun and I loved how the guy, Zac, took his time in getting to know the girl. That was sweet
In the second one we follow two musicians. The girl is a classical cellist while the guy is torn between following the path that his parents laid out for him or going for his passion, which is country music. They've known each other in high school so there's a past there. This was also a cute story, although not my favorite one.
In the third one we meet a jilted groom and his girl BFF. They were previously introduced in the first story. Even then, I kind of knew that they would end up together. Something about the way the scene was laid out, with her putting her hand on his thigh that made me think there's more to them than friendship, at least for the girl. Nothing sensual, but just that affectionate move made me think that they'll end up together. I wasn't too keen with the flow of this story too. I felt like their turning towards each other was through a shared sadness. I mean if they really had strong feelings for each other, how come they never acted on it. I felt that both were a little bit naive or that their feelings, once it was revealed wasn't as strong and true as they make it out to be.
The last one was about a photographer and a friend of the jilted groom. This one was a story of love at first sight. They both had an attraction for each other but because of fear and awkwardness they never bothered exchanging numbers. They went through a whole year of trying to find each other, but was unsuccessful before they finally met again and in their reunion, there was no awkwardness, just pure joy of meeting up again. I don't know if I really buy that.
Over all, the stories were easy to read, the flow was ok and the stories, albeit rather predictable, was entertaining.
October 17, 2018
Ok, let me start by admitting that i have grown to love these authors through their fiction works that have appeal to the Latter-day Saint demographic. So i was surprised when this book is very much *not* in the same category as all their previous works that i know and love. Excellent appeal to a wider audience that loves clean romance. There is a lot of alcohol mentioned in this book, and i was not used to that. Though i know it's very true to the culture they are writing about. I lived in Charleston for a summer between high school and university, and i really love that city! 🧡
The format intrigued me in the beginning, but ultimately frustrated me when i got down to reading it. I felt like each couple could have had so much more depth as a full individual book, but as 4 connected novellas, it left me wishing for more of the story for all the characters. I had a running list of questions in my head about each character's back story, none of which were answered.
A fun project and idea. Well done for what it is. A little less than what i had hoped for and expected.
And a totally dumb critique... i read the ebook version and there were maybe a dozen grammatical/editing errors throughout, and while i normally mark it and fix it in my physical books, i couldn't and my ocd itched. Haha!
Wow, i feel like my review makes me a huge jerk. I really enjoyed these stories, and read the whole thing in 2 days! I loved that all the stories shared characters and roughly the time line. I just really wanted more depth for all the stories, and when trying to squeeze 4 romances into 1 book, it's bound to gloss over some areas and just focus on the major points. I've learned a lot about myself as a reader, too. I don't think i like novellas... i want more substance, back story, details, etc. 😕
I received an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
The format intrigued me in the beginning, but ultimately frustrated me when i got down to reading it. I felt like each couple could have had so much more depth as a full individual book, but as 4 connected novellas, it left me wishing for more of the story for all the characters. I had a running list of questions in my head about each character's back story, none of which were answered.
A fun project and idea. Well done for what it is. A little less than what i had hoped for and expected.
And a totally dumb critique... i read the ebook version and there were maybe a dozen grammatical/editing errors throughout, and while i normally mark it and fix it in my physical books, i couldn't and my ocd itched. Haha!
Wow, i feel like my review makes me a huge jerk. I really enjoyed these stories, and read the whole thing in 2 days! I loved that all the stories shared characters and roughly the time line. I just really wanted more depth for all the stories, and when trying to squeeze 4 romances into 1 book, it's bound to gloss over some areas and just focus on the major points. I've learned a lot about myself as a reader, too. I don't think i like novellas... i want more substance, back story, details, etc. 😕
I received an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
October 18, 2018
This was an interesting combination of stories, mostly written in chronological order but with the main characters shifting.
I liked the first and the fourth parts the best. I liked Harper and Zac and the playful way their relationship grew. And I liked the illustration of adaptation.
The comparison to a Hallmark movie in the fourth part made me laugh, because that is, indeed, what it felt like, although it specifically reminded me of "Serendipity," which isn't technically a Hallmark movie. But still. It was corny and funny and I enjoyed it.
I liked the second and third parts of the book fine. I liked the characters and was happy they had happy endings. I felt that it was a little weird the way Dahlia completely dropped out of the story in the third part, and only after I read the fourth part did that make sense...it maybe could have indicated that she was gone longer than a typical honeymoon.
Content: no sex. Some mild language. A number of references to adults drinking alcohol and/or being drunk.
Disclaimer: I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
I liked the first and the fourth parts the best. I liked Harper and Zac and the playful way their relationship grew. And I liked the illustration of adaptation.
The comparison to a Hallmark movie in the fourth part made me laugh, because that is, indeed, what it felt like, although it specifically reminded me of "Serendipity," which isn't technically a Hallmark movie. But still. It was corny and funny and I enjoyed it.
I liked the second and third parts of the book fine. I liked the characters and was happy they had happy endings. I felt that it was a little weird the way Dahlia completely dropped out of the story in the third part, and only after I read the fourth part did that make sense...it maybe could have indicated that she was gone longer than a typical honeymoon.
Content: no sex. Some mild language. A number of references to adults drinking alcohol and/or being drunk.
Disclaimer: I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review.
October 25, 2018
I was very excited when I heard about these talented authors joining together for Wedding Belles. I like how each author took a side (if you will) of this wedding and let the reader experience it from different angles. Each story focuses on different characters, but you still get to read a little bit about the characters from the last book (albeit at a distance).
It was a fun and entertaining collaboration. Some of the relationships are new and fast, while others had a basis of friendship (or a crush from a distance).
I enjoyed this compilation and thought each novella was well-written (with the exception of a few swearwords in two of the stories-I'm never a fan of that).
I will definitely read more from all of these authors.
3.5 stars
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
It was a fun and entertaining collaboration. Some of the relationships are new and fast, while others had a basis of friendship (or a crush from a distance).
I enjoyed this compilation and thought each novella was well-written (with the exception of a few swearwords in two of the stories-I'm never a fan of that).
I will definitely read more from all of these authors.
3.5 stars
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 17, 2018
Gah!! I love these types of books. However, when there are several mini books in one big book, the characters tend to run together. THIS WAS NOT THE CASE! Each book had such distinct stories and blended together efforlessly! I can still think about the book and each story and remember details of each one and characters. That doesn't happen a lot! So kudos! Well done, authors! You succeeded! And I could not put it down! I love these kinds of stories anyway, but these seemed especially fun and captivating! I hope this continues! I also loved that it was all centered around one event. Even though some stories span a year, the main event was the same for all of the stories. It was fantastic. And the ending was a perfect tie! Now all you authors need to get going on another one!
October 18, 2018
I was sent an ARC and this is my voluntary review:
I really enjoyed this book! These women are some of my favorite authors so reading their collaboration was fun!
SPOILERS:
I enjoyed each individual story and felt like I really got to know the characters...which was a good and bad thing. Sometimes in a collaboration like this, one author's version of the characters is very different from another. I felt like the last story, Sutton and Max, didn't portray Harper and Zak or Deacon and Lily at all like their original author portrayed them. In fact, Deacon came across as cruel when his story shows him as a forgiving and kind man. Beside that, I really enjoyed the book though! My favorite story was that of Lily and Deacon, it was very sweet and I laughed out loud several times.
I really enjoyed this book! These women are some of my favorite authors so reading their collaboration was fun!
SPOILERS:
I enjoyed each individual story and felt like I really got to know the characters...which was a good and bad thing. Sometimes in a collaboration like this, one author's version of the characters is very different from another. I felt like the last story, Sutton and Max, didn't portray Harper and Zak or Deacon and Lily at all like their original author portrayed them. In fact, Deacon came across as cruel when his story shows him as a forgiving and kind man. Beside that, I really enjoyed the book though! My favorite story was that of Lily and Deacon, it was very sweet and I laughed out loud several times.
October 29, 2018
I absolutely loved this book!
I love the concept of 4 parts to the novel-each story told by the eyes of 2 different characters. All the characters were somehow connected by Dahlia's wedding event which is mentioned in story 1.
The authors did a great job keeping the flow of the story line going and interlacing all the characters together, all while telling their individual stories-leading up to the wedding and after.
I loved all the main characters and their different personalities, but I think I liked Lily the best! Highly recommend this story! Clean romance, great characters, easy to read!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
I love the concept of 4 parts to the novel-each story told by the eyes of 2 different characters. All the characters were somehow connected by Dahlia's wedding event which is mentioned in story 1.
The authors did a great job keeping the flow of the story line going and interlacing all the characters together, all while telling their individual stories-leading up to the wedding and after.
I loved all the main characters and their different personalities, but I think I liked Lily the best! Highly recommend this story! Clean romance, great characters, easy to read!
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
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