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Bridesmaids
‘Laugh-out-loud fantastic!’ Mandy Baggot From the bestselling author of The Wedding Date ! Meet Rachel , the beautiful bride with BIG plans for the perfect day! The venue is a castle and the dress is designer. It’s just a shame her husband is a rat. Maddie and Sally have only one thing in common – they both love the same man!
Beth is a newly single mum with a mystery baby daddy. Surely the father isn’t someone the girls all know?
And then there’s Jane , the glue holding them all together, but being dumped doesn’t make her the happiest bridesmaid…especially with gorgeous flatmate Freddie complicating things. Will the bride say, ‘I Do!’? Or will her bridesmaids save the day…and find love along the way? Readers are LOVING Bridesmaids ! ‘I had an absolute blast reading this book…definitely a book that will have you crying with laughter and will lift your spirits when you are feeling down in the dumps’ Kayleigh, Goodreads ‘ Completely hilarious … Bridesmaids is a triumph !’ Rachel’s Random Reads ‘A delightful novel…helped me break out of a book slump’ Renee, Netgalley ‘You haven’t experienced the true joy of a funny and loveable rom com until you’ve read THIS book’ Jenna Books ‘An absolutely hysterical book…loved it’ Cozy Book Nook ‘Witty, charming and just plain fun …I literally giggled while reading it’ Laurie, Goodreads ‘There were several times throughout this book when I would burst out laughing …definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves romantic comedy ’ Patricia, Goodreads ‘I am just a big old sucker for these kinds of books… definitely my type !!’ Charlotte, Goodreads ‘A hilarious look at life with all its ups and downs’ Nikki’s Book Blog
Beth is a newly single mum with a mystery baby daddy. Surely the father isn’t someone the girls all know?
And then there’s Jane , the glue holding them all together, but being dumped doesn’t make her the happiest bridesmaid…especially with gorgeous flatmate Freddie complicating things. Will the bride say, ‘I Do!’? Or will her bridesmaids save the day…and find love along the way? Readers are LOVING Bridesmaids ! ‘I had an absolute blast reading this book…definitely a book that will have you crying with laughter and will lift your spirits when you are feeling down in the dumps’ Kayleigh, Goodreads ‘ Completely hilarious … Bridesmaids is a triumph !’ Rachel’s Random Reads ‘A delightful novel…helped me break out of a book slump’ Renee, Netgalley ‘You haven’t experienced the true joy of a funny and loveable rom com until you’ve read THIS book’ Jenna Books ‘An absolutely hysterical book…loved it’ Cozy Book Nook ‘Witty, charming and just plain fun …I literally giggled while reading it’ Laurie, Goodreads ‘There were several times throughout this book when I would burst out laughing …definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves romantic comedy ’ Patricia, Goodreads ‘I am just a big old sucker for these kinds of books… definitely my type !!’ Charlotte, Goodreads ‘A hilarious look at life with all its ups and downs’ Nikki’s Book Blog
400 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2019
1023 people are currently reading
795 people want to read
About the author
Zara Stoneley
34 books347 followersZara Stoneley is the USA Today bestselling author of The Wedding Date.
Born in a small village in the UK, she wanted to be a female James Herriot, a spy, or an author when she grew up. After many (many) years, and many different jobs, her dream of writing a bestseller came true.
She writes about friendship, dreams, love, and happy ever afters, and hopes that her tales make you laugh a lot, cry a little, and occasionally say 'ahhh'.
Zara now lives in a Cheshire village with her family, a lively cockapoo called Harry, and a very bossy (and slightly evil) cat called Saffron.
Zara’s bestselling novels include 'The Wedding Date', 'The Holiday Swap', 'Summer with the Country Village Vet', 'Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage' and the popular Tippermere series - 'Stable Mates', 'Country Affairs' and 'Country Rivals'.
Born in a small village in the UK, she wanted to be a female James Herriot, a spy, or an author when she grew up. After many (many) years, and many different jobs, her dream of writing a bestseller came true.
She writes about friendship, dreams, love, and happy ever afters, and hopes that her tales make you laugh a lot, cry a little, and occasionally say 'ahhh'.
Zara now lives in a Cheshire village with her family, a lively cockapoo called Harry, and a very bossy (and slightly evil) cat called Saffron.
Zara’s bestselling novels include 'The Wedding Date', 'The Holiday Swap', 'Summer with the Country Village Vet', 'Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage' and the popular Tippermere series - 'Stable Mates', 'Country Affairs' and 'Country Rivals'.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
April 30, 2019
A wedding you’ll never forget and a Rom-Com you won’t want to miss, Bridesmaids is the must-read, hilarious book for this summer!
I fell in love with Zara Stoneley over the holidays with her fabulous book, No One Cancels Christmas, and had a feeling that I would really like her newest book, Bridesmaids. I was absolutely right, except I had no idea how much I would enjoy this delightful story and the characters involved – including the precious kitty who will steal your heart!
There are four school mates, four friends and four members of the bridal party and lots and lots of secrets. Not all of the school mates are friends with each others. Not all of them are privy to each other’s secrets and not all of them are happy for the bride to be. Now they have all come together for the hen party and wedding and what a wedding this one will turn out to be!
Jane is our protagonist around whom most of the secrets flow. Not everyone likes Jane, but it appears that everyone talks to her, although what she hears is not always what is true. Sometimes Jane interprets things according to her own conflicted past. Rachel is the bride to be and so happy that she is oblivious to much of what is swirling around her: a fiancé who has secrets of his own, Jane who is struggling after her own failed engagement, and two bridesmaids who cannot stand to be in the same room at the same time. They are Maddie and Sally – one is married to the other’s old boyfriend and the other never gave up hope of rekindling that flame. And then there is Beth – the outlier, single, new mom whose secret makes all other secrets look like child’s play. Welcome to the wedding! Enjoy the ride!
When British Rom-Coms are done well, they are witty, smart, sharp and laugh-out-loud hilarious. Bridesmaids is all of that and more! I, quite literally, found myself laughing so hard at Jane and her friends, crying at times and then cheering for them at the end in a way that I seldom do for women’s fiction or “chick lit.” Zara Stoneley writes her books in such a way that each character has a very vivid personality and is relatable to someone that you know or have known in your life. You find yourself saying “oh yeah, I completely understand,” right along with the characters in the book. They are very real people while you are reading along with them. More importantly, though, Stoneley creates a story that is more than humorous. All of these characters are going through very complex issues in their lives from broken engagements to job insecurity to single parenthood and broken dreams. We watch as they slowly grow, come to subtle realizations about the next steps in their lives and become stronger as women – and men – so that by the end of the book you are as happy as they are with the way things turned out for their lives. It does have a happy ending although, wow, I wasn’t sure we ever would get these gals to that point!
If you loved Stoneley’s holiday tale or are looking for a delightful, heart-warming summer read, then this is the perfect choice for you. I absolutely adored it!
Thanks so much to #Netgalley, @HarperImpulse and #ZaraStoneley for my copy of #Bridesmaids.
I fell in love with Zara Stoneley over the holidays with her fabulous book, No One Cancels Christmas, and had a feeling that I would really like her newest book, Bridesmaids. I was absolutely right, except I had no idea how much I would enjoy this delightful story and the characters involved – including the precious kitty who will steal your heart!
There are four school mates, four friends and four members of the bridal party and lots and lots of secrets. Not all of the school mates are friends with each others. Not all of them are privy to each other’s secrets and not all of them are happy for the bride to be. Now they have all come together for the hen party and wedding and what a wedding this one will turn out to be!
Jane is our protagonist around whom most of the secrets flow. Not everyone likes Jane, but it appears that everyone talks to her, although what she hears is not always what is true. Sometimes Jane interprets things according to her own conflicted past. Rachel is the bride to be and so happy that she is oblivious to much of what is swirling around her: a fiancé who has secrets of his own, Jane who is struggling after her own failed engagement, and two bridesmaids who cannot stand to be in the same room at the same time. They are Maddie and Sally – one is married to the other’s old boyfriend and the other never gave up hope of rekindling that flame. And then there is Beth – the outlier, single, new mom whose secret makes all other secrets look like child’s play. Welcome to the wedding! Enjoy the ride!
When British Rom-Coms are done well, they are witty, smart, sharp and laugh-out-loud hilarious. Bridesmaids is all of that and more! I, quite literally, found myself laughing so hard at Jane and her friends, crying at times and then cheering for them at the end in a way that I seldom do for women’s fiction or “chick lit.” Zara Stoneley writes her books in such a way that each character has a very vivid personality and is relatable to someone that you know or have known in your life. You find yourself saying “oh yeah, I completely understand,” right along with the characters in the book. They are very real people while you are reading along with them. More importantly, though, Stoneley creates a story that is more than humorous. All of these characters are going through very complex issues in their lives from broken engagements to job insecurity to single parenthood and broken dreams. We watch as they slowly grow, come to subtle realizations about the next steps in their lives and become stronger as women – and men – so that by the end of the book you are as happy as they are with the way things turned out for their lives. It does have a happy ending although, wow, I wasn’t sure we ever would get these gals to that point!
If you loved Stoneley’s holiday tale or are looking for a delightful, heart-warming summer read, then this is the perfect choice for you. I absolutely adored it!
Thanks so much to #Netgalley, @HarperImpulse and #ZaraStoneley for my copy of #Bridesmaids.
May 4, 2019
5☆ Perfect Rom Com!
Hilarious Uplifting Must Read!
As soon as i see Zara had written another book I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy! I wasn't disappointed.... Another Hilarious Rom Com Gem!!
First of all I want to start by saying I absolutely LOVE the Cover I just want to reach in and devour one of those cupcakes.
Who doesn't love a good wedding..... well Jane doesn't.... after being dumped on her Hen Night it's hardly surprising.
So when her best friend Rachel announces she's getting married, Jane has to put her feelings aside for Rachel's sake.
But that's easier said than done, you see Jane knows a secret that could destroy Rachel's marriage before it's even begun.
But what a predicament!
But that's not all the Bridesmaids all have so many secrets and resentments.
So if the secret Jane is harbouring doesn't potentially ruin the wedding then the Bridesmaids might.
This book should be a Film!! It's got all the makings for a fantastic Rom Com.
It's got Drama, Hilarious comedy, Romance, A Wedding, Waring Bridesmaids, scandal, backstabbing, miscommunications, Juicy Secrets, it's incredibly uplifting and makes you feel good!
The Characters are superbly written, they are relatable and compliment each other perfectly.
When I say this book is hilarious.... I truly mean it!. It's Witty, plenty of banter and laugh out loud moments.
Not only is it incredibly funny, it's also warm and has some touching moments.
If your looking for an uplifting, fun and highly entertaining read that will have you laughing out loud, feeling good and wanting more, then look no further. It truly is the PERFECT Rom Com!
I seriously can't recommend this book enough!
Definitely going on my Top Books this year!
Zara Stoneley is one of my favourite authors and I really hope that there will be more from the Bridesmaids!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Hilarious Uplifting Must Read!
As soon as i see Zara had written another book I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy! I wasn't disappointed.... Another Hilarious Rom Com Gem!!
First of all I want to start by saying I absolutely LOVE the Cover I just want to reach in and devour one of those cupcakes.
Who doesn't love a good wedding..... well Jane doesn't.... after being dumped on her Hen Night it's hardly surprising.
So when her best friend Rachel announces she's getting married, Jane has to put her feelings aside for Rachel's sake.
But that's easier said than done, you see Jane knows a secret that could destroy Rachel's marriage before it's even begun.
But what a predicament!
But that's not all the Bridesmaids all have so many secrets and resentments.
So if the secret Jane is harbouring doesn't potentially ruin the wedding then the Bridesmaids might.
This book should be a Film!! It's got all the makings for a fantastic Rom Com.
It's got Drama, Hilarious comedy, Romance, A Wedding, Waring Bridesmaids, scandal, backstabbing, miscommunications, Juicy Secrets, it's incredibly uplifting and makes you feel good!
The Characters are superbly written, they are relatable and compliment each other perfectly.
When I say this book is hilarious.... I truly mean it!. It's Witty, plenty of banter and laugh out loud moments.
Not only is it incredibly funny, it's also warm and has some touching moments.
If your looking for an uplifting, fun and highly entertaining read that will have you laughing out loud, feeling good and wanting more, then look no further. It truly is the PERFECT Rom Com!
I seriously can't recommend this book enough!
Definitely going on my Top Books this year!
Zara Stoneley is one of my favourite authors and I really hope that there will be more from the Bridesmaids!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
April 28, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
He has been ‘he who must not be named’ for quite a while now. Mainly because hearing his name led either to an irrational outburst (from me), featuring lots of swear words, and descriptions about what I’d like to do to various parts of his anatomy, or, and this was so much worse, horrible, snot-inducing tears. Don’t you hate it when that happens, when you end up inside out and can’t stop?
I cut his head off all my photos. And a triangle out of the crotch area. And looked if Amazon Prime supplied Voodoo Dolls. They do, just in case you need to know for future reference.
Sally was the girl at school who either already had it all or was damned well going to get it soon. You know the type? You get that longed for pony, next minute she’s got a unicorn. A pink one, that makes dreams come true and farts rainbows.
I’m more Krispy Kreme doughnuts than quinoa, if you know what I mean. And most of that healthy stuff just seems to get stuck in my teeth and annoy me for the rest of the day. Whoever thought a rice cake was a good idea? I mean, who dreamt that the words rice and cake should even be in the same sentence?
‘But I’ll get over it. Plenty more fish in the sea,’ she raises an eyebrow, ‘just not that particular sprat.
My Review:
My perusal of this cleverly crafted tale was rudely interrupted by occasional outbreaks of giggle-snorts and one particularly vivid scene involving a sick infant in a bridal shop that erupted in spasms of laughter that ceased all further reading until normal respirations and clear vision was regained. Ms. Stoneley’s quirky cast of characters and engaging storylines hit all feels in a highly entertaining and pleasantly appealing manner. This was a fun read with a badly behaved groom, poorly kept secrets, and reams of sharp wit and clever snark. A new addition to my Brit word list is bint, which Mr. Google tells me is derogatory (and possibly offensive) slang for a female in the UK but is also used as a cheeky form of endearment in Western Sydney.
He has been ‘he who must not be named’ for quite a while now. Mainly because hearing his name led either to an irrational outburst (from me), featuring lots of swear words, and descriptions about what I’d like to do to various parts of his anatomy, or, and this was so much worse, horrible, snot-inducing tears. Don’t you hate it when that happens, when you end up inside out and can’t stop?
I cut his head off all my photos. And a triangle out of the crotch area. And looked if Amazon Prime supplied Voodoo Dolls. They do, just in case you need to know for future reference.
Sally was the girl at school who either already had it all or was damned well going to get it soon. You know the type? You get that longed for pony, next minute she’s got a unicorn. A pink one, that makes dreams come true and farts rainbows.
I’m more Krispy Kreme doughnuts than quinoa, if you know what I mean. And most of that healthy stuff just seems to get stuck in my teeth and annoy me for the rest of the day. Whoever thought a rice cake was a good idea? I mean, who dreamt that the words rice and cake should even be in the same sentence?
‘But I’ll get over it. Plenty more fish in the sea,’ she raises an eyebrow, ‘just not that particular sprat.
My Review:
My perusal of this cleverly crafted tale was rudely interrupted by occasional outbreaks of giggle-snorts and one particularly vivid scene involving a sick infant in a bridal shop that erupted in spasms of laughter that ceased all further reading until normal respirations and clear vision was regained. Ms. Stoneley’s quirky cast of characters and engaging storylines hit all feels in a highly entertaining and pleasantly appealing manner. This was a fun read with a badly behaved groom, poorly kept secrets, and reams of sharp wit and clever snark. A new addition to my Brit word list is bint, which Mr. Google tells me is derogatory (and possibly offensive) slang for a female in the UK but is also used as a cheeky form of endearment in Western Sydney.
April 26, 2019
What do you think would happen if you got a group of girls together from high school to be your bridesmaids? Girls that have not seen each other in years. That may technically be a bit of frenemies? You guessed it, you get an entertaining read that will have you literally laughing out loud!
Jane has been a bit down on her luck lately. She just got dumped the night of her hen party by her fiancee Andy via text! He just wasn't feeling it. She struggles to find a flat she can afford on her own and finds that is going to be next to impossible. So she ends up moving in with the self proclaimed geek from high school Freddie. Except Freddie is no longer a geek. Unfortunately for Jane he is in love with some mystery girl. Her boss is literally a nightmare who thinks Jane is at her beck and call. Just when it couldn't get worse, her best friend Rachael springs it on her that she is getting married and wants Jane to be a bridesmaid! Add to the equation that Jane despises Rachael's soon to be husband!
Oh my gosh this had me gasping at the crazy antics these girls were capable of. The lies, deceit and secrets kept among themselves was shocking. It was like high school all over again! As the big day nears Jane is struggling to keep it together. These other bridesmaids put the D in drama! As Rachael's BFF Jane is expected to rein them all in and keep the peace.
Does the perfect wedding go off without a hitch? Did the girls manage to come together to make it a perfect day for Rachael? A delightful rom com that will have you smiling and laughing until the very end! Adorable, fun and zany! You are sure to love this one!
I am so excited that I got to come along on this blog tour! This is my first book by Zara Stoneley and you can sign me up as a fan. Her light, fun, quick and hilarious book brought a smile to my face.
Jane has been a bit down on her luck lately. She just got dumped the night of her hen party by her fiancee Andy via text! He just wasn't feeling it. She struggles to find a flat she can afford on her own and finds that is going to be next to impossible. So she ends up moving in with the self proclaimed geek from high school Freddie. Except Freddie is no longer a geek. Unfortunately for Jane he is in love with some mystery girl. Her boss is literally a nightmare who thinks Jane is at her beck and call. Just when it couldn't get worse, her best friend Rachael springs it on her that she is getting married and wants Jane to be a bridesmaid! Add to the equation that Jane despises Rachael's soon to be husband!
Oh my gosh this had me gasping at the crazy antics these girls were capable of. The lies, deceit and secrets kept among themselves was shocking. It was like high school all over again! As the big day nears Jane is struggling to keep it together. These other bridesmaids put the D in drama! As Rachael's BFF Jane is expected to rein them all in and keep the peace.
Does the perfect wedding go off without a hitch? Did the girls manage to come together to make it a perfect day for Rachael? A delightful rom com that will have you smiling and laughing until the very end! Adorable, fun and zany! You are sure to love this one!
I am so excited that I got to come along on this blog tour! This is my first book by Zara Stoneley and you can sign me up as a fan. Her light, fun, quick and hilarious book brought a smile to my face.
April 23, 2019
Hilarious, romantic, and highly entertaining!
Bridesmaids is a spirited, deliciously scandalous tale that takes us into the life of Jane and some of her mates from school as the preparations for the upcoming nuptials of one of their own will cause revelations to be revealed, secrets to be exposed, and true love to be found.
The writing is witty and light. The characters are quirky, vibrant, and endearing. And the plot is an engaging, funny tale full of secrets, misgivings, friendship, chemistry, humorous mishaps, tricky moments, awkward situations, romantic drama, and self-reflection.
Overall, Bridesmaids is an uplifting, comical, refreshing read by Stoneley that I think would be perfect for fans of chaotically charming, contemporary romance novels.
Thank you to Zara Stoneley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy in an exchange for an honest review.
Bridesmaids is a spirited, deliciously scandalous tale that takes us into the life of Jane and some of her mates from school as the preparations for the upcoming nuptials of one of their own will cause revelations to be revealed, secrets to be exposed, and true love to be found.
The writing is witty and light. The characters are quirky, vibrant, and endearing. And the plot is an engaging, funny tale full of secrets, misgivings, friendship, chemistry, humorous mishaps, tricky moments, awkward situations, romantic drama, and self-reflection.
Overall, Bridesmaids is an uplifting, comical, refreshing read by Stoneley that I think would be perfect for fans of chaotically charming, contemporary romance novels.
Thank you to Zara Stoneley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy in an exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2019
A hilarious story packed with romance, friendship, and loads of drama!
Zara Stoneley has written another entertaining book that will make you laugh. An uplifting story full of likable real characters living realistic relatable lives. I don’t know about you, but the weather starts to get warmer and I start migrating towards a fun romcom with a gorgeous cover, rather than a dark thriller. This book is certainly the perfect spring time read.
Jane is dumped the night of her hen/bachelorette party via text. Her ex fiancé’s reason for the breakup? He just wasn’t feeling it. Really? Ugh first you break up by text and then you have the worst reason ever, I was so annoyed for Jane! What a douche! The good news... Jane is clearly better off. When Jane’s old friend Rachel asks her to be a bridesmaid she’s not quite sure about the timing, but she can’t say no. What follows is a hilarious and drama filled tail. A group of old friends with plenty of secrets and complications are gathered together to help celebrate Rachel‘s big day.
Jane was a great character and I loved the friendship between these girls. It was so true of groups of girlfriends that have a lot of history, you could never really tell who like to, but you knew they would all be there for one another no matter what. There was a lot going on in this book. But I think my favorite relationship in the book was that between Jane and Freddie. Where can I find myself a Freddie? anyone? They all do live happily ever after, and it certainly was a lot of fun watching them get there!
*** thank you Harper Impulse for my copy of this book ***
Zara Stoneley has written another entertaining book that will make you laugh. An uplifting story full of likable real characters living realistic relatable lives. I don’t know about you, but the weather starts to get warmer and I start migrating towards a fun romcom with a gorgeous cover, rather than a dark thriller. This book is certainly the perfect spring time read.
Jane is dumped the night of her hen/bachelorette party via text. Her ex fiancé’s reason for the breakup? He just wasn’t feeling it. Really? Ugh first you break up by text and then you have the worst reason ever, I was so annoyed for Jane! What a douche! The good news... Jane is clearly better off. When Jane’s old friend Rachel asks her to be a bridesmaid she’s not quite sure about the timing, but she can’t say no. What follows is a hilarious and drama filled tail. A group of old friends with plenty of secrets and complications are gathered together to help celebrate Rachel‘s big day.
Jane was a great character and I loved the friendship between these girls. It was so true of groups of girlfriends that have a lot of history, you could never really tell who like to, but you knew they would all be there for one another no matter what. There was a lot going on in this book. But I think my favorite relationship in the book was that between Jane and Freddie. Where can I find myself a Freddie? anyone? They all do live happily ever after, and it certainly was a lot of fun watching them get there!
*** thank you Harper Impulse for my copy of this book ***
April 24, 2019
All I can say is Ms Stoneley and her books never fail to make me smile. I loved being surrounded by Jane and her friends. I loved I knew exactly where this story was going to go for each character but having them discover their own path. I loved Louie the most though lol. And allllllllllll the secrets!!
I wanted to read this in one sitting because I was thinking about this book when I wasn’t reading it. I started it Monday evening and made a dent before I fell asleep so early because of a hectic week, and then Tuesday I stayed up until just before midnight finishing it. I then took to Twitter just to let Zara know she totally knocked it out of the park with Bridesmaids.
The story was cute and one that was so easy to lose yourself in. It is a book, to read in sun savouring the words written in front of you. I must say that wedding sounds like the best ever! I wish I had an invite and it had me cackling when I read it.
This is Janes’ story as we watch her grow from someone who has been cruelly dumped on her hen party, with no self-worth, dictated too by an “influencer” to a woman who was self-assured, albeit a little bit dappy at times. In some cases, she reminded me of…Well me! Slightly dappy, quick to go off on a tangent in her head, not always letting people finish their sentences and jump to the wrong conclusions as they can’t finish their sentences!! However, when I was reading this, I was so quick to tell her to stop and slow down. She did make me chuckle and I also had hair envy, I just loved her. All the women were so down to earth and likeable in their own way, yes even Sal!
I found myself smiling at my kindle a lot especially at how down to earth and real this book truly was. The friendship of the girls, despite not living in each other's pockets was lovely. And did I mention the secrets, it was funny that everyone turned to Jane and she got herself in a right old tizz about it all. Plus where can I meet a man like Freddie???
I would love there to be a sequel to this book as I don’t think we are quite done with all these ladies. Plus I need to know what happens on the honeymoon!! And I need more Louie!
Bridesmaids is definitely a story that will make you smile and make you love a little bit more and it has left me with all the feels for sure! I stand by my statement that Ms Stoneley has so knocked this out of the park. That’s three in three for me. Loved them all!
April 20, 2019
An enjoyable Chick Lit with some humour. There was a tad too much going on and it did seem like a long book, could have done with some condensing.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing a copy.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing a copy.
May 14, 2019
I couldn't read enjoy it past the keeping of a very important secret from your best friend who is about to get married. It made no sense and nobody will do it in real life. I skim read the rest. Freddie was fun and Jane was behaving like an idiot most of the time. I like a clumsy heroine but not a delusional one!
April 26, 2019
A fabulous, light-hearted read with plenty of high and lows; I've giggled my way through this one!
The very last thing Jane wants to do is attend a wedding. When her very best friend, Rachel, announces she is getting married to the man she broke up and whom Jane knows is a cheating liar, she sticks a smile on her face and agrees to be chief bridesmaid, despite her own planned wedding turning out to be a non-event. Along with Sally and Maddie, they all vow to make Rachel's day the best it can be - but both these two are in love with Jack, and one of them is his wife. And then there's Beth .. with her young son in tow and no-one knowing who the baby daddy is. What can possibly go wrong?
This novel has it all. Sadness, happiness and everything in between. It's the kind of read where you find yourself egging on various characters several times over until they actually do what you want! I have, once again, got a very bemused husband as I have spluttered and chuckled repeatedly. It's a well-thought out story, well-written and with many lively characters - all entertaining in their own way; I have loved everything about it. Most definitely a book to brighten your day, and fully deserving of a full house of bright, sparkling stars!
The very last thing Jane wants to do is attend a wedding. When her very best friend, Rachel, announces she is getting married to the man she broke up and whom Jane knows is a cheating liar, she sticks a smile on her face and agrees to be chief bridesmaid, despite her own planned wedding turning out to be a non-event. Along with Sally and Maddie, they all vow to make Rachel's day the best it can be - but both these two are in love with Jack, and one of them is his wife. And then there's Beth .. with her young son in tow and no-one knowing who the baby daddy is. What can possibly go wrong?
This novel has it all. Sadness, happiness and everything in between. It's the kind of read where you find yourself egging on various characters several times over until they actually do what you want! I have, once again, got a very bemused husband as I have spluttered and chuckled repeatedly. It's a well-thought out story, well-written and with many lively characters - all entertaining in their own way; I have loved everything about it. Most definitely a book to brighten your day, and fully deserving of a full house of bright, sparkling stars!
April 22, 2019
I received a copy of this title via NetGalley. It does not impact my review.
Bridesmaids was a fun, quick read that I really enjoyed. I’m going to go the list route on this one.
-Based on the synopsis I thought this was going to be more of an ensemble story with multiple POVs. However, it’s told from the first person POV of Jane, the bride-to-be’s best friend. I had to adjust my expectations a bit, but it worked for me. Jane was a little hard to like at first. She came across pretty self-absorbed and kind of snotty, but as the story went on I liked her a lot more.
-Rachel, the bride, is always described as being so nice and caring and selfless, but I didn’t always get that. I mean, she was nice, but she did lots of selfish things. Jane had recently gone through a pretty terrible break-up right before she was supposed to be married and did not handle it well and is pretty skittish about the whole wedding idea. But, Rachel 100% expects her to be there as a bridesmaid and to even plan her hen party (or bachelorette party to us, Americans), which is where she was dumped by her fiance. Rachel also asks two other women to be bridesmaids even though one of them is now married to the other one’s ex-boyfriend, who is definitely not over the break-up. It was kind of a train wreck sometimes, but I couldn’t look away.
-I think my favorite thing about the book was Freddie, Rachel’s flatmate. He was so funny and sweet and wonderful. I loved every scene he was in. I loved his friendship with Rachel and I loved how their relationship turned to more than friends. I shipped them so hard.
-There are are several secrets and scandals between the wedding party. I’ll admit one of my pet peeves in books is when one honest conversation could solve all the problems. But, it didn’t really bother me here. As I said earlier, sometimes when they all got together it was kind of like a train wreck, but it was an entertaining one I had to keep reading. I thought the identity of Beth’s baby’s father was kind of obvious, but it added to the soap-opera like drama and I was here for it.
Overall, I really enjoyed Bridesmaids. While I did have some issues with some of the characters’ behavior, the story was full of Lifetime level drama and was exactly the type of read I was in the mood for. I also absolutely loved Freddie and his relationship with Jane. This was my first book by Stoneley, but I plan on checking out more of her books when I’m in the mood for some good Chick Lit.
Overall Rating (out of 5): 4 Stars
Bridesmaids was a fun, quick read that I really enjoyed. I’m going to go the list route on this one.
-Based on the synopsis I thought this was going to be more of an ensemble story with multiple POVs. However, it’s told from the first person POV of Jane, the bride-to-be’s best friend. I had to adjust my expectations a bit, but it worked for me. Jane was a little hard to like at first. She came across pretty self-absorbed and kind of snotty, but as the story went on I liked her a lot more.
-Rachel, the bride, is always described as being so nice and caring and selfless, but I didn’t always get that. I mean, she was nice, but she did lots of selfish things. Jane had recently gone through a pretty terrible break-up right before she was supposed to be married and did not handle it well and is pretty skittish about the whole wedding idea. But, Rachel 100% expects her to be there as a bridesmaid and to even plan her hen party (or bachelorette party to us, Americans), which is where she was dumped by her fiance. Rachel also asks two other women to be bridesmaids even though one of them is now married to the other one’s ex-boyfriend, who is definitely not over the break-up. It was kind of a train wreck sometimes, but I couldn’t look away.
-I think my favorite thing about the book was Freddie, Rachel’s flatmate. He was so funny and sweet and wonderful. I loved every scene he was in. I loved his friendship with Rachel and I loved how their relationship turned to more than friends. I shipped them so hard.
-There are are several secrets and scandals between the wedding party. I’ll admit one of my pet peeves in books is when one honest conversation could solve all the problems. But, it didn’t really bother me here. As I said earlier, sometimes when they all got together it was kind of like a train wreck, but it was an entertaining one I had to keep reading. I thought the identity of Beth’s baby’s father was kind of obvious, but it added to the soap-opera like drama and I was here for it.
Overall, I really enjoyed Bridesmaids. While I did have some issues with some of the characters’ behavior, the story was full of Lifetime level drama and was exactly the type of read I was in the mood for. I also absolutely loved Freddie and his relationship with Jane. This was my first book by Stoneley, but I plan on checking out more of her books when I’m in the mood for some good Chick Lit.
Overall Rating (out of 5): 4 Stars
April 12, 2019
Completely hilarious and if you love characters that put 2 and 2 together and come up with fifty, then you will love Jane.
The whole book is told from Jane's point of view, and after being dumped on her hen night, isn't that keen on weddings any more, so its rather tricky when best friend Rachel announces she is getting married. Even more awkward when Jane knows a secret about groom Michael and has no idea what to do with it.
Then there are the other bridesmaids / close friends who Jane hasn't seen in years but Rachel keeps up with. There is Sally who married Maddie's ex-boyfriend Jack, and well Maddie isn't as ok with it as everyone seems to think.
Finally there is Beth, who is single mum to baby Joe, responsible for an amusingly disgusting instance in the dress shop, and Beth is definitely hiding things too, like just who the father is.
Set in three parts, where we meed the bridesmaids, the hen party and then the wedding, this is one of the most amusing books I've read this year. If there are cross purposes to be had, then Jane is your woman.
And in amongst Jane trying to make sure the wedding goes without a hitch, despite her misgivings and tension in the bridesmaids ranks - she is just coming to the realisation of what she feels for a couple of key men from her life.
Bridesmaids has a wonderful feel to it, and I could easily see it as a film (although in some respects it feels a bit like elements from the film of the same name, but completely and utterly different too). Or maybe it should be a sitcom, there is definitely enough humour, romance and conflict in this for a TV series!
Another incredibly enjoyable and entertaining book from one of my favourite authors, Bridesmaids is triumph!
Thank you to Harper Impulse and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
The whole book is told from Jane's point of view, and after being dumped on her hen night, isn't that keen on weddings any more, so its rather tricky when best friend Rachel announces she is getting married. Even more awkward when Jane knows a secret about groom Michael and has no idea what to do with it.
Then there are the other bridesmaids / close friends who Jane hasn't seen in years but Rachel keeps up with. There is Sally who married Maddie's ex-boyfriend Jack, and well Maddie isn't as ok with it as everyone seems to think.
Finally there is Beth, who is single mum to baby Joe, responsible for an amusingly disgusting instance in the dress shop, and Beth is definitely hiding things too, like just who the father is.
Set in three parts, where we meed the bridesmaids, the hen party and then the wedding, this is one of the most amusing books I've read this year. If there are cross purposes to be had, then Jane is your woman.
And in amongst Jane trying to make sure the wedding goes without a hitch, despite her misgivings and tension in the bridesmaids ranks - she is just coming to the realisation of what she feels for a couple of key men from her life.
Bridesmaids has a wonderful feel to it, and I could easily see it as a film (although in some respects it feels a bit like elements from the film of the same name, but completely and utterly different too). Or maybe it should be a sitcom, there is definitely enough humour, romance and conflict in this for a TV series!
Another incredibly enjoyable and entertaining book from one of my favourite authors, Bridesmaids is triumph!
Thank you to Harper Impulse and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
April 26, 2019
There’s a genre specific to British fiction which the British call chick-lit and everyone else doesn’t quite know how to define, but usually they call it romantic comedy. For me it’s typified by the TV show Coupling (the British version, not the appalling American remake) and authors like Helen Fielding (Bridget Jones’ Diary) and Sophie Kinsella (the Shopaholic series). Think Four Weddings And A Funeral, think Notting Hill, and you’ll be in the perfect mood to sit down and thoroughly enjoy Bridesmaids.
Jane is a thirty-ish wannabe photographer trapped working for a diva social media maven and still in recovery from a nightmarish breakup where her fiance dumped her at her hen party (bachelorette party, for Americans). Invited to be the bridesmaid at her best friend Rachel’s wedding, there’s no way to say no - and definitely no way to express her doubts about Michael, the groom-to-be, not without sounding as though she’s just bitter about her own failure to walk up the aisle. Roped in by Rachel to act as a buffer between the three other warring bridesmaids, Jane ends up digging herself into deeper and deeper holes.
There’s a charming slow-burn friends to lovers romance in this between Jane and her flatmate, Freddie. Freddie’s such a sweetheart, I was hoping all along for him and Jane to get their wires uncrossed, but I did feel for poor Jane, who constantly seemed to be dealing with about ten sticky situations at once. She really didn’t have the time and space to process her own emotions, something which Freddie to his credit did try to give her, though I felt like strangling him when he threw the suggestion of moving to Scotland at her unexpectedly.
In the end, of course, all the secrets come out and things turn out just as they should… though not without a few disastrous mishaps causing much hilarity along the way!
I loved reading this so much. I laughed more times than I can count, and I closed it feeling that joyous sense of completion and satisfaction which all too few authors can make you feel at the end of a story. If you’re in the mood for a great British romantic comedy, you should absolutely check out Bridesmaids - and maybe, like I did, imagine a young Hugh Grant as Freddie. He’d have been absolutely perfect!
5 stars for one of the funniest books I’ve read in ages!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through Rachel’s Random Resources.
Jane is a thirty-ish wannabe photographer trapped working for a diva social media maven and still in recovery from a nightmarish breakup where her fiance dumped her at her hen party (bachelorette party, for Americans). Invited to be the bridesmaid at her best friend Rachel’s wedding, there’s no way to say no - and definitely no way to express her doubts about Michael, the groom-to-be, not without sounding as though she’s just bitter about her own failure to walk up the aisle. Roped in by Rachel to act as a buffer between the three other warring bridesmaids, Jane ends up digging herself into deeper and deeper holes.
There’s a charming slow-burn friends to lovers romance in this between Jane and her flatmate, Freddie. Freddie’s such a sweetheart, I was hoping all along for him and Jane to get their wires uncrossed, but I did feel for poor Jane, who constantly seemed to be dealing with about ten sticky situations at once. She really didn’t have the time and space to process her own emotions, something which Freddie to his credit did try to give her, though I felt like strangling him when he threw the suggestion of moving to Scotland at her unexpectedly.
In the end, of course, all the secrets come out and things turn out just as they should… though not without a few disastrous mishaps causing much hilarity along the way!
I loved reading this so much. I laughed more times than I can count, and I closed it feeling that joyous sense of completion and satisfaction which all too few authors can make you feel at the end of a story. If you’re in the mood for a great British romantic comedy, you should absolutely check out Bridesmaids - and maybe, like I did, imagine a young Hugh Grant as Freddie. He’d have been absolutely perfect!
5 stars for one of the funniest books I’ve read in ages!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through Rachel’s Random Resources.
May 11, 2019
I’m a big Zara Stoneley fan but have to admit that while I love all of her books, Bridesmaids is by far her best book so far! It’s a sassy, hilariously funny must read that’s full of brilliant characters who jumped off the page as they came to life before my eyes.
Jane has been asked to be a bridesmaid at her friend Rachel’s marriage to Michael. But even though Jane isn’t particularly fond of weddings after what happened to her own planned nuptials, she agrees and rises up to the challenge! The other three bridesmaids all have secrets to hide as do their respective partners and Jane seems completely stuck in the middle of it all due to being the only one in the know. Or, at least, she THINKS she knows!! And it’s this premise that brings about a whole lot of trouble and some very funny scenes throughout Bridesmaids!
Once I picked this up I really did struggle to put it down again. After getting used to who was who in the opening few chapters, I watched gobsmacked as the women who were there to support Rachel through the best day of her life continually put the whole day at risk with their escapades! Jane was at the centre of it all and her relationship with her flat mate Freddie was a “will they, won’t they?” dilemma that Ross and Rachel from Friends would have been proud of!
Bridesmaids kept me entertained and chuckling for hours! There were scenes that would work perfectly in a more visual context and if there hadn’t already been a film called Bridesmaids then this book would have made a great adaptation for the big screen! I found the scenes in the wedding dress shop very true to life (having been in quite a few myself recently!!) and all the relationships felt realistic too. But my favourite part of the whole book was those friendships between the women which had the same comforting feel as a pair of your favourite cosy pyjamas! Jane was my favourite bridesmaid and I loved how she got herself into some difficult but hilarious situations as she tried to keep the peace and give her friend the wedding she deserves but that Jane didn’t have herself.
Bridesmaids is bang on trend with an endearing storyline and appealing characters who charmed me throughout as I cheered them all on to their own happy ever afters! I absolutely adored it and can highly recommend it to fans old and new. It’s a funny as hell comedy of errors with a heart so pop on your fascinator and head to the wedding of the year!
Jane has been asked to be a bridesmaid at her friend Rachel’s marriage to Michael. But even though Jane isn’t particularly fond of weddings after what happened to her own planned nuptials, she agrees and rises up to the challenge! The other three bridesmaids all have secrets to hide as do their respective partners and Jane seems completely stuck in the middle of it all due to being the only one in the know. Or, at least, she THINKS she knows!! And it’s this premise that brings about a whole lot of trouble and some very funny scenes throughout Bridesmaids!
Once I picked this up I really did struggle to put it down again. After getting used to who was who in the opening few chapters, I watched gobsmacked as the women who were there to support Rachel through the best day of her life continually put the whole day at risk with their escapades! Jane was at the centre of it all and her relationship with her flat mate Freddie was a “will they, won’t they?” dilemma that Ross and Rachel from Friends would have been proud of!
Bridesmaids kept me entertained and chuckling for hours! There were scenes that would work perfectly in a more visual context and if there hadn’t already been a film called Bridesmaids then this book would have made a great adaptation for the big screen! I found the scenes in the wedding dress shop very true to life (having been in quite a few myself recently!!) and all the relationships felt realistic too. But my favourite part of the whole book was those friendships between the women which had the same comforting feel as a pair of your favourite cosy pyjamas! Jane was my favourite bridesmaid and I loved how she got herself into some difficult but hilarious situations as she tried to keep the peace and give her friend the wedding she deserves but that Jane didn’t have herself.
Bridesmaids is bang on trend with an endearing storyline and appealing characters who charmed me throughout as I cheered them all on to their own happy ever afters! I absolutely adored it and can highly recommend it to fans old and new. It’s a funny as hell comedy of errors with a heart so pop on your fascinator and head to the wedding of the year!
February 23, 2021
I enjoyed this one! It’s everything you expect from a rom-com... romance and comedy, obvs! But also the cheesiness that comes with it and the bundles of girl power vibes it gives.
Stoneley gives us all the characters in a friendship group that are absolutely real, and would fit into your own. I really became fond of them!
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 - a light and heartwarming read about friendship and love.
Stoneley gives us all the characters in a friendship group that are absolutely real, and would fit into your own. I really became fond of them!
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 - a light and heartwarming read about friendship and love.
July 18, 2019
This was a cute story. Nothing very heavy or serious. Just some naive youngsters coming to terms with life. As a woman who has crossed this stage of being clueless, it was fun reading about the girl friends who are all at different cross roads in their lives.
So, the bride Rachel. She had her eyes just set on one goal, getting married. Frankly, I could see that train wreck coming from so far. But I guess I have the benefit of becoming cynical after so many life experiences. That said, I am glad things ended the way they did for her.
Maddie and Sally both regretting their hasty decisions in their youth. Maddie being the soft one in the group who lost someone long time ago and still regrets losing out on him. And Sally, who thinks she is always in competition with Maddie and who has that someone in her life but knows that things are not as perfect as she they would be. Sally behaves like a bitch most of the times, but it's all just her insecurities coming out at different situations.
Beth was supposed to be the badass of the group, but she is now a single mum handling her responsibilities with maturity.
And finally, Jane, broken hearted after her engagement ended because of her cheating beau. People are walking on egg shells around her worried about upsetting her. And Jane herself thinks that she is still not over her ex. But little does she realize that the cure for her a heart break was in front of her all along. While many situations between her and Freddie seemed so innocent, I mean, surely she can't be that clueless.
And all the girls have secrets. Will the secrets come out ? Will it destroy their friendship ? Life is always with twists and turns and this story, though very predictable, was a good read.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Impulse and Killer Reads for providing this ARC in exchange of my unbiased review.
So, the bride Rachel. She had her eyes just set on one goal, getting married. Frankly, I could see that train wreck coming from so far. But I guess I have the benefit of becoming cynical after so many life experiences. That said, I am glad things ended the way they did for her.
Maddie and Sally both regretting their hasty decisions in their youth. Maddie being the soft one in the group who lost someone long time ago and still regrets losing out on him. And Sally, who thinks she is always in competition with Maddie and who has that someone in her life but knows that things are not as perfect as she they would be. Sally behaves like a bitch most of the times, but it's all just her insecurities coming out at different situations.
Beth was supposed to be the badass of the group, but she is now a single mum handling her responsibilities with maturity.
And finally, Jane, broken hearted after her engagement ended because of her cheating beau. People are walking on egg shells around her worried about upsetting her. And Jane herself thinks that she is still not over her ex. But little does she realize that the cure for her a heart break was in front of her all along. While many situations between her and Freddie seemed so innocent, I mean, surely she can't be that clueless.
And all the girls have secrets. Will the secrets come out ? Will it destroy their friendship ? Life is always with twists and turns and this story, though very predictable, was a good read.
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Impulse and Killer Reads for providing this ARC in exchange of my unbiased review.
May 9, 2019
Not my kind of book. 1.5 stars.
I should have known better when I saw this described as a Rom Com. I didn’t find this funny at all. These people are whiny, immature dumbasses. Cheaters, liars, and drunks (the guys) are not funny. The women are not much better.
They all keep secrets that affect each other’s lives in Important ways! And worse, they do it for the other person’s own good and to preserve their happiness. Who thinks letting their best friend marry a serial cheater is being a good friend? Who thinks that will be a happy marriage? WTF!
They jump to conclusions constantly and never seem to have a serious conversation with each other for the entire book. The characters were just unlikable and I could not relate to any of them.
I kept waiting for it to be funny - all the way to the end of the book. It also needs editing.
I should have known better when I saw this described as a Rom Com. I didn’t find this funny at all. These people are whiny, immature dumbasses. Cheaters, liars, and drunks (the guys) are not funny. The women are not much better.
They all keep secrets that affect each other’s lives in Important ways! And worse, they do it for the other person’s own good and to preserve their happiness. Who thinks letting their best friend marry a serial cheater is being a good friend? Who thinks that will be a happy marriage? WTF!
They jump to conclusions constantly and never seem to have a serious conversation with each other for the entire book. The characters were just unlikable and I could not relate to any of them.
I kept waiting for it to be funny - all the way to the end of the book. It also needs editing.
June 19, 2019
I can’t.
April 24, 2019
This definitely lives up to its billing as the most hilarious, feel-good rom com of the year as far as I'm concerned - it is simply hilarious!
The whole story is told from Jane's point of view. Jane isn't keen on weddings after being dumped on her hen night. That makes things difficult when her best friend, Rachel, announces she's getting married and wants Jane to be chief bridesmaid. They've been friends since their school days and usually share everything but Jane knows a secret about Rachel's husband to be and can't decide whether to share it with her friend or not.
The other potential bridesmaids are three other school friends but there are secrets and surprises there, too! Sally has married Maddie's high school sweetheart, Jack, and Maddie is secretly heartbroken by this. Beth turns down the opportunity to be a bridesmaid as she's now a single Mum who won't say who her son's father is! With secrets, surprises, angst and hilarity, this is a brilliant and fun read with love at its heart. Jane's predisposition to misinterpret comments and events makes it so easy for her to get things totally wrong, sometimes with consequences that had me laughing out loud.
Get ready for fun, drama, laughs and love in this heartwarming romantic comedy. It has great characters and explores the relationships between them in a manner that will put a smile on your face. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and have no hesitation in highly recommending it to anyone looking for a highly entertaining story where so much either goes wrong or is misinterpreted with hilarious consequences but works out well in the end.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it - and thoroughly enjoying it!
The whole story is told from Jane's point of view. Jane isn't keen on weddings after being dumped on her hen night. That makes things difficult when her best friend, Rachel, announces she's getting married and wants Jane to be chief bridesmaid. They've been friends since their school days and usually share everything but Jane knows a secret about Rachel's husband to be and can't decide whether to share it with her friend or not.
The other potential bridesmaids are three other school friends but there are secrets and surprises there, too! Sally has married Maddie's high school sweetheart, Jack, and Maddie is secretly heartbroken by this. Beth turns down the opportunity to be a bridesmaid as she's now a single Mum who won't say who her son's father is! With secrets, surprises, angst and hilarity, this is a brilliant and fun read with love at its heart. Jane's predisposition to misinterpret comments and events makes it so easy for her to get things totally wrong, sometimes with consequences that had me laughing out loud.
Get ready for fun, drama, laughs and love in this heartwarming romantic comedy. It has great characters and explores the relationships between them in a manner that will put a smile on your face. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and have no hesitation in highly recommending it to anyone looking for a highly entertaining story where so much either goes wrong or is misinterpreted with hilarious consequences but works out well in the end.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it - and thoroughly enjoying it!
April 26, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley
Laugh-out-loud, heartfelt, and warm are just some of the words that I would use to describe BRIDESMAIDS by Zara Stoneley and it is a must-read for humour and contemporary romance fans everywhere.
Jane got jilted by her fiancé on her hen night so it is no wonder that she isn't a big fan of love and marriage. But when her best friend Rachel announces that she is getting hitched and she wants Jane to be her bridesmaid, Jane pastes on a smile and tries to throw herself into the whole event. But Jane has her reasons for wanting to protect Rachel from getting hurt, especially since she knows the soon-to-be groom is hiding something from Rachel. Add in two other bridesmaids who love the same man and another bridesmaid who has a secret baby-daddy that nobody knows anything about, and the sparks are sure to fly. And then there is Jane's other best friend, Freddie, who has always been there for her and who is beginning to feature in her dreams in an altogether different way ...
I laughed so much while reading BRIDESMAIDS that I got jaw ache and the characters just felt so much like friends by the end that I didn't really want it to end. There are plenty of heartwarming and emotional moments as well as funny ones, and the book just felt like a big hug from start to finish. There were times when Jane was a little naive but after what has happened to her it was understandable. The friendships are all different and relatable, and there wasn't a dull moment.
BRIDESMAIDS by Zara Stoneley is a wonderful story of friendship and love and I highly recommend it!
Laugh-out-loud, heartfelt, and warm are just some of the words that I would use to describe BRIDESMAIDS by Zara Stoneley and it is a must-read for humour and contemporary romance fans everywhere.
Jane got jilted by her fiancé on her hen night so it is no wonder that she isn't a big fan of love and marriage. But when her best friend Rachel announces that she is getting hitched and she wants Jane to be her bridesmaid, Jane pastes on a smile and tries to throw herself into the whole event. But Jane has her reasons for wanting to protect Rachel from getting hurt, especially since she knows the soon-to-be groom is hiding something from Rachel. Add in two other bridesmaids who love the same man and another bridesmaid who has a secret baby-daddy that nobody knows anything about, and the sparks are sure to fly. And then there is Jane's other best friend, Freddie, who has always been there for her and who is beginning to feature in her dreams in an altogether different way ...
I laughed so much while reading BRIDESMAIDS that I got jaw ache and the characters just felt so much like friends by the end that I didn't really want it to end. There are plenty of heartwarming and emotional moments as well as funny ones, and the book just felt like a big hug from start to finish. There were times when Jane was a little naive but after what has happened to her it was understandable. The friendships are all different and relatable, and there wasn't a dull moment.
BRIDESMAIDS by Zara Stoneley is a wonderful story of friendship and love and I highly recommend it!
February 23, 2022
Bridesmaids - Zara Stonely
Have you ever been to a disastrous wedding?
🧁 Rachel..... would love a best friend like her she just is so selfless....
🧁 Sally... How she has any friends is beyond me....
🧁 Maddie a bit meek she was more like background noise
🧁 Jane needs to stop cutting people off and actually listen... Although her abruptness is the catalyst for alot of the book
🧁 Freddie don't be so vague when you're making proclamations, and stop man stomping off.
A fun read Everyone seems lost in translation it's a web of comedic confusion!
May 18, 2019
This was such a fun read, an absolute fantastic buffer between my thrillers. The book had me laughing at some parts.
Jane was dumped and her best friend Rachel was getting married, but Jane knew a secret which could destroy her best friend. All the bridesmaid had something to hide. And only Jane knew.
My first book by Author Zara had me laughing loudly at some scenes All the characters had were well portrayed. There was humor but there was a strong core of friendship too.
Overall, a good lighthearted humorous read when the mind just wants to relax and take it easy
Jane was dumped and her best friend Rachel was getting married, but Jane knew a secret which could destroy her best friend. All the bridesmaid had something to hide. And only Jane knew.
My first book by Author Zara had me laughing loudly at some scenes All the characters had were well portrayed. There was humor but there was a strong core of friendship too.
Overall, a good lighthearted humorous read when the mind just wants to relax and take it easy
April 26, 2019
I had an absolute blast reading this book. From the first page I was laughing. I always love when an author writes characters you can see yourself in. And Jane was very much me I love her. This is definitely a book that will have you crying with laughter and will lift your spirits when you are feeling down in the dumps. A must read.
April 26, 2019
I have wanted to read ‘Bridesmaids’ since forever ago when Zara shared a photo of the book cover on social media. For a start a book that has not one but four cupcakes on the front deserves my attention! Wow! I know the saying ‘never judge a book by its cover’ but let’s… Beautiful, even without taking a look at the synopsis I knew I wanted to read this and I knew I would simply love it. ‘Four friends, four secrets, a wedding they’ll never forget’ How can you not dive into the pages!
I love a wedding, everyone does surely…?! Who doesn’t love a wedding involving secrets and gossip though, I would have Pinocchio’s nose if I had said no! Of course we all do. Wedding’s are one of the most stressful times that can create disputes between families and friends, generate money troubles, it can turn you into a weather stalker (you’re just asking for one dry day that’s all!) but what happens when your best friend is marrying someone you know is not their soul mate, it’s not going to be easy sailing that’s for sure!
I loved this book, it’s pure easy reading, escapism with bundles of humour thrown in too. Although Rachel is the bride to be the book is actually written through Jane’s point of view. Jane, we find out isn’t such a fan of weddings which is totally understandable after her heart was broken after being dumped by her fiancé on her hen night! So you can understand her worries when best friend Rachel breaks the news of her approaching wedding especially when she has a sneaky suspicion that Rachel’s fiancé is a complete toad. But being a good bridesmaid and more importantly best friend Jane is ever supportive, making sure to oohhh and ahhh at the right times throughout every step of the wedding planning.
I really liked the character of Jane, Zara has created someone who not only is likeable for so many reasons but relatable. I could really see myself in her at times throughout the book, the friend who keeps everyone together no matter the situation, a peacemaker, barrier, reliable and a confidant to all. I felt sorry for her at times too, trying to keep everyone happy, keeping people’s secrets all while battling a dragon of a boss at work and jeopardising her own happiness at the same time.
We all know life can get in the way of keeping in touch so Rachel’s wedding is a great excuse to bring the girlfriends back together however along with them they bring secrets of their own. Sally and Maddie are both in love with the same man which surely will cause no end of awkward moments during the wedding run up, hen party and the big day itself, especially when the man in question is the best man..! Beth who may not be a bridesmaid but still very much part of the bridal party is a new mum to baby Joe but is keeping schtum over who the daddy may be. All this and the hen party antics haven’t even started!
Last but no means least is Jane’s gorgeous flatmate Freddie who came to Jane in her hour of need and has continued to be her knight in shining armour. I loved all the scenes that Freddie appeared in, you just know he is one of the good ones that every girl needs in her life whether he is fantasy Freddie who Jane secretly crushes over or reliable flat mate Freddie, you can tell that he is a keeper for sure.
Overall this book was everything I wanted it to be and more, featuring lots of laugh out loud moments, some shocking revelations that left me gob smacked.. and not forgetting a wedding day no one will forget in a hurry! Bridesmaids is a total must read for this summer..! Buy Buy Buy! Zara thank you for another smashing read!
I love a wedding, everyone does surely…?! Who doesn’t love a wedding involving secrets and gossip though, I would have Pinocchio’s nose if I had said no! Of course we all do. Wedding’s are one of the most stressful times that can create disputes between families and friends, generate money troubles, it can turn you into a weather stalker (you’re just asking for one dry day that’s all!) but what happens when your best friend is marrying someone you know is not their soul mate, it’s not going to be easy sailing that’s for sure!
I loved this book, it’s pure easy reading, escapism with bundles of humour thrown in too. Although Rachel is the bride to be the book is actually written through Jane’s point of view. Jane, we find out isn’t such a fan of weddings which is totally understandable after her heart was broken after being dumped by her fiancé on her hen night! So you can understand her worries when best friend Rachel breaks the news of her approaching wedding especially when she has a sneaky suspicion that Rachel’s fiancé is a complete toad. But being a good bridesmaid and more importantly best friend Jane is ever supportive, making sure to oohhh and ahhh at the right times throughout every step of the wedding planning.
I really liked the character of Jane, Zara has created someone who not only is likeable for so many reasons but relatable. I could really see myself in her at times throughout the book, the friend who keeps everyone together no matter the situation, a peacemaker, barrier, reliable and a confidant to all. I felt sorry for her at times too, trying to keep everyone happy, keeping people’s secrets all while battling a dragon of a boss at work and jeopardising her own happiness at the same time.
We all know life can get in the way of keeping in touch so Rachel’s wedding is a great excuse to bring the girlfriends back together however along with them they bring secrets of their own. Sally and Maddie are both in love with the same man which surely will cause no end of awkward moments during the wedding run up, hen party and the big day itself, especially when the man in question is the best man..! Beth who may not be a bridesmaid but still very much part of the bridal party is a new mum to baby Joe but is keeping schtum over who the daddy may be. All this and the hen party antics haven’t even started!
Last but no means least is Jane’s gorgeous flatmate Freddie who came to Jane in her hour of need and has continued to be her knight in shining armour. I loved all the scenes that Freddie appeared in, you just know he is one of the good ones that every girl needs in her life whether he is fantasy Freddie who Jane secretly crushes over or reliable flat mate Freddie, you can tell that he is a keeper for sure.
Overall this book was everything I wanted it to be and more, featuring lots of laugh out loud moments, some shocking revelations that left me gob smacked.. and not forgetting a wedding day no one will forget in a hurry! Bridesmaids is a total must read for this summer..! Buy Buy Buy! Zara thank you for another smashing read!
April 30, 2019
“Bridesmaids” introduces us to Jane, who, after having been dumped on her hen night, isn’t so keen on weddings anymore. But when her best friend Rachel asks her to be her bridesmaid, she can’t say no, right? although the situation is rather awkward, as Jane knows a secret about Rachel’s husband – to – be and she really doesn’t know what to do!
The other bridesmaids turn out to be the girls’ school friends Sally, Maddie and Beth, and each of them have a secret of their own. Sally has married Maddie’s high school sweetheart Jack but Maddie still, secretly, loves him with all her heart. Beth is a single mum but won’t say a word about the father of her baby. Will all the secrets see the light of the day? And if so, why? Not at the wedding, right?
The story is told from Jane’s point of view and she is a brilliant narrator, and also an absolutely brilliant character, too often jumping to conclusions but that’s the way she is, putting 2 and 2 together and coming up with five or more, and I love such chaotic heroines! Probably because they’re like me. But back to Jane, who is such a warm, loveable character and her personal journey through the story, the decisions she has finally made, were heart – warming. She is the kind of character that simply makes you proud of them.
But we have a bunch of other, full of life, characters. Rachel, Jane’s best friend, Sally and Maddie and Beth. I loved how complex they were, how funny and how they often tried to put on a brave face to spare the others’ worries. They, like it usually is, had secrets that they kept from each other, but I really truly could understand why they were like this.
The story is full of hilarious moments and events and there were moments that reading it felt like watching a tennis game with your head going right and left, so many things happened and were said. The banter and dialogues were brilliantly light but also, believe me, it was full of feelings, this book, especially when Jane was wondering about her own emotions, and it was also so well written. It was uplifting take on love and relationships, marriage and also betrayal, but especially on friendship that will have you root for the characters and want to slap the others. The author easily pulls you into the story and from the very beginning you feel a part of the group and you’re with the characters through good and bed times.
“Bridesmaids” is written in such a light, chatty way and it was a real pleasure to read it. I’ve read all of Zara Stoneley’s books and loved all of them, and know how funny she can be, but this time the whole story is simply so light and bright and heart – warming and über – funny. It has this special feeling to it that makes you feel better and happier. I can’t recommend this gem of a book highly enough!
copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
April 26, 2019
I must admit, I had such a fun time reading Bridesmaids. I wasn’t sure at first what I was getting myself into because I never expected the story would be told in the first person point of view. So, needless to say I was a bit surprised. But, Jane is a fantastic and loveable character who I warmed up to easily and quickly enough. Jane is getting over a breakup with her fiance after being dumped at her hen party via a text message. While feeling sorry for herself and her life, she soon finds out her best friend, Rachel is getting married and Jane has a big secret she has been hiding about Rachel’s fiance Michael. How is jane ever going to get through being a bridesmaid at her best friend's wedding?
If you think that Jane has problems? You should meet Rachel’s other friends in the bridal party. Sally is married to maddie’s ex-boyfriend and while Maddie pretends to be okay with it, that couldn’t be any further than the truth. Then there is single Beth with her new baby. Who is the father you ask? Beth’s lips are sealed for now. Four women each with their own set of problems try to help and fix each other often times in hilarious ways. What ensues will warm your heart, make you laugh and wish that each of these women were your friends.
Marriage/Bridesmaid’s themed books have been sprouting up all over the place in the book world recently and while I have enjoyed most of them, Bridesmaids really hit a home run. I can see why Zara Stoneley is a fan favorite. Stoneley easily pulls you into the story and into the lives of four friends through the good times and the bad. While some of the women are at the lowest points in their lives, I can easily see so much character growth as the story progresses and in a way they each find themselves along the way.
Bridesmaids is an uplifting humorous take on life, love and marriage that will leave you laughing and rooting for the girls all the way through. If you love a story you can sink your teeth into and one you will enjoy immensely then you definitely will want to pick up a copy of Bridesmaids. It is definitely well worth the read. Just know it will be hard to put down and you will find yourself reading well into the evening while smiling at the adorableness of this story.
If you think that Jane has problems? You should meet Rachel’s other friends in the bridal party. Sally is married to maddie’s ex-boyfriend and while Maddie pretends to be okay with it, that couldn’t be any further than the truth. Then there is single Beth with her new baby. Who is the father you ask? Beth’s lips are sealed for now. Four women each with their own set of problems try to help and fix each other often times in hilarious ways. What ensues will warm your heart, make you laugh and wish that each of these women were your friends.
Marriage/Bridesmaid’s themed books have been sprouting up all over the place in the book world recently and while I have enjoyed most of them, Bridesmaids really hit a home run. I can see why Zara Stoneley is a fan favorite. Stoneley easily pulls you into the story and into the lives of four friends through the good times and the bad. While some of the women are at the lowest points in their lives, I can easily see so much character growth as the story progresses and in a way they each find themselves along the way.
Bridesmaids is an uplifting humorous take on life, love and marriage that will leave you laughing and rooting for the girls all the way through. If you love a story you can sink your teeth into and one you will enjoy immensely then you definitely will want to pick up a copy of Bridesmaids. It is definitely well worth the read. Just know it will be hard to put down and you will find yourself reading well into the evening while smiling at the adorableness of this story.
April 27, 2019
This is the first book I've read by Zara Stoneley, and I have to say... I loved it! Fun, flirty and fabulous - the perfect elements for the perfect light-hearted read.
Dumped on her own hen night, Jane is understandably a bit anti-weddings. But not as anti as everyone around her thinks she is, she has her own reasons for casting doubt when her best friend announces The Wedding of All Weddings.
Add to that some friends Jane hasn't seen since school - not all of whom were bosom buddies - and the friends' reunion isn't without it's own issues... the girl who had everything but the boy, now has the boy who was everything to the other girl, and the girl who was the life and soul of the party is keeping her lips sealed about the father of her baby - except secrets have a way of coming out.
A series of misunderstandings, assumptions and accusations lead Jane, the panicky chief bridesmaid, a merry dance as she tries to ensure everything runs smoothly for her friend.
It's a wonderful mix of characters and their secrets and lies. Jane is wonderful; despite her own heartbreak she is determined to do the best for her friend but is torn between telling her the truth and protecting her from it.
Then we have the husband-to-be - has he changed for the better? And the ex-husband-to-be is back on the scene... and the perfect but spiky Sally who is determined to hang on to her man, but is he really hers to keep?
And to complicate matters, there is Jane's other best friend, flatmate Freddie, who is actually rather hot. But Jane is scared of risking that friendship by taking anything further.
Bridesmaids is a fun, frenzied, chaotic read which sweeps the reader along on a wave of hilarious situations and misunderstandings.
Rich, fruity layers with beautiful, sweet icing on top, it's the perfect book version of a wedding cake!
Thanks to the publisher, Netgalley and @rararesources for the advanced reading copy.
Dumped on her own hen night, Jane is understandably a bit anti-weddings. But not as anti as everyone around her thinks she is, she has her own reasons for casting doubt when her best friend announces The Wedding of All Weddings.
Add to that some friends Jane hasn't seen since school - not all of whom were bosom buddies - and the friends' reunion isn't without it's own issues... the girl who had everything but the boy, now has the boy who was everything to the other girl, and the girl who was the life and soul of the party is keeping her lips sealed about the father of her baby - except secrets have a way of coming out.
A series of misunderstandings, assumptions and accusations lead Jane, the panicky chief bridesmaid, a merry dance as she tries to ensure everything runs smoothly for her friend.
It's a wonderful mix of characters and their secrets and lies. Jane is wonderful; despite her own heartbreak she is determined to do the best for her friend but is torn between telling her the truth and protecting her from it.
Then we have the husband-to-be - has he changed for the better? And the ex-husband-to-be is back on the scene... and the perfect but spiky Sally who is determined to hang on to her man, but is he really hers to keep?
And to complicate matters, there is Jane's other best friend, flatmate Freddie, who is actually rather hot. But Jane is scared of risking that friendship by taking anything further.
Bridesmaids is a fun, frenzied, chaotic read which sweeps the reader along on a wave of hilarious situations and misunderstandings.
Rich, fruity layers with beautiful, sweet icing on top, it's the perfect book version of a wedding cake!
Thanks to the publisher, Netgalley and @rararesources for the advanced reading copy.
April 14, 2019
I will do my best to stop laughing and sputtering at you as I write this review. That’s how funny and adorable is this book is. Applause and lots of love to author Zara Stoneley for creating a warm and witty story.
How many romantic comedies have been written about weddings and bridesmaids? How many have you read? Lots, I’d bet. But you haven’t experienced the true joy of a funny and loveable rom com until you’ve read THIS book. Get ready to turn the pages- you won’t want to stop reading this book, as something hilarious is always happening.
Jane is our first-person narrator and a reluctant bridesmaid. You’ll find out why as you get to know her and her friends, all buddies from school. Each of them has a precarious hold on romance and each one is alternately trying to sort out their own lives, while helping the others fix their messes.
The author has done a wonderful job of creating vibrant characters- Jane and her flat mate Freddie are two of the best rom com stars created. All the “supporting cast” is excellent, too- each character is memorable and really stands out. Even the mothers in the book are delightful to read about, especially at the end!
What happens when two friends, Maddie and Sally, love the same man, and one of them married him? Does Jane really know who the father of Beth’s baby is? And what should Jane do when she discovers a secret that involves her best friend Rachel? It’s amazing that people manage to get married!
This book is much more than just an adorable cover. Highly recommend.
Thank you to Harper Impulse, Netgalley and Rachel’s Random Reviews for this review copy. This is my honest review.
How many romantic comedies have been written about weddings and bridesmaids? How many have you read? Lots, I’d bet. But you haven’t experienced the true joy of a funny and loveable rom com until you’ve read THIS book. Get ready to turn the pages- you won’t want to stop reading this book, as something hilarious is always happening.
Jane is our first-person narrator and a reluctant bridesmaid. You’ll find out why as you get to know her and her friends, all buddies from school. Each of them has a precarious hold on romance and each one is alternately trying to sort out their own lives, while helping the others fix their messes.
The author has done a wonderful job of creating vibrant characters- Jane and her flat mate Freddie are two of the best rom com stars created. All the “supporting cast” is excellent, too- each character is memorable and really stands out. Even the mothers in the book are delightful to read about, especially at the end!
What happens when two friends, Maddie and Sally, love the same man, and one of them married him? Does Jane really know who the father of Beth’s baby is? And what should Jane do when she discovers a secret that involves her best friend Rachel? It’s amazing that people manage to get married!
This book is much more than just an adorable cover. Highly recommend.
Thank you to Harper Impulse, Netgalley and Rachel’s Random Reviews for this review copy. This is my honest review.
April 30, 2019
What do you get when you take a bunch of best friends, a hunky flatmate, a bunch of secrets and an impending wedding? An hilarious romantic comedy that's just a delight to read!
Peacemaker Jane is tasked with the job of keeping Rachel's bridesmaids under control. With a huge amount of past history and tension brewing between them, Jane's task proves more than difficult.
I'm a sucker for a good romantic comedy but what I love even more is when that book is more about the relationships between a bunch of best friends and their ups and downs.
Female friendships are often complicated relationships in existence and this novel portrays them beautifully. Ms Stoneley takes the varied identities often found in a group of friends and brings them to life through each character. I love that each character is beautifully and humanly flawed but leaves you with no choice but to adore them for different reasons.
Then there's Freddie - the hunky flatmate who seems so perfect. Hurt and humiliated by the end of her previous relationship, Jane is suppressing her feelings for the delicious Freddie when it's it's obvious to everyone else that they are perfect together. It's impossible not to spend the whole book rooting for them.
The whole story is told with humour, a hint of sadness and is a strong advocate for friendships in all their imperfect glory. It's such a brilliant read and I highly recommend it.
Peacemaker Jane is tasked with the job of keeping Rachel's bridesmaids under control. With a huge amount of past history and tension brewing between them, Jane's task proves more than difficult.
I'm a sucker for a good romantic comedy but what I love even more is when that book is more about the relationships between a bunch of best friends and their ups and downs.
Female friendships are often complicated relationships in existence and this novel portrays them beautifully. Ms Stoneley takes the varied identities often found in a group of friends and brings them to life through each character. I love that each character is beautifully and humanly flawed but leaves you with no choice but to adore them for different reasons.
Then there's Freddie - the hunky flatmate who seems so perfect. Hurt and humiliated by the end of her previous relationship, Jane is suppressing her feelings for the delicious Freddie when it's it's obvious to everyone else that they are perfect together. It's impossible not to spend the whole book rooting for them.
The whole story is told with humour, a hint of sadness and is a strong advocate for friendships in all their imperfect glory. It's such a brilliant read and I highly recommend it.
July 20, 2019
First off the authors acknowledgements bit was really sad and I'm really sorry Zara lost her Dad in the process of doing the edits for this book.
Honestly, I really didn't enjoy this book. The plot is built around men being terrible and miscommunications between friends.
There was so much drama I can't even begin to describe it - but I should have expected that just from the blurb. Jane isn't the most exciting character, and seems to thrive on gossip about her friends she's known since school. And the fact she shares their secrets with a guy she has just started seeing is awful. And she won't tell her best friend Rachel that the guy she is going go marry cheated on her and is a total controlling jerk. Just couldn't get behind Jane. And Jane's career plans just got put on the side for all the gossip so their wasn't much empowerment.
Not to mention all the other drama was super predictable - especially the who is Beth's baby's Dad stuff.
My favourite character was the kitten, because he was an absolute sweetie. The human characters were just super irritating and honestly just got tired of the drama. Some bits were funny though. Especially the poo and shoe near the end.
Honestly, I really didn't enjoy this book. The plot is built around men being terrible and miscommunications between friends.
There was so much drama I can't even begin to describe it - but I should have expected that just from the blurb. Jane isn't the most exciting character, and seems to thrive on gossip about her friends she's known since school. And the fact she shares their secrets with a guy she has just started seeing is awful. And she won't tell her best friend Rachel that the guy she is going go marry cheated on her and is a total controlling jerk. Just couldn't get behind Jane. And Jane's career plans just got put on the side for all the gossip so their wasn't much empowerment.
Not to mention all the other drama was super predictable - especially the who is Beth's baby's Dad stuff.
My favourite character was the kitten, because he was an absolute sweetie. The human characters were just super irritating and honestly just got tired of the drama. Some bits were funny though. Especially the poo and shoe near the end.
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