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A Happy Catastrophe
From the bestselling author of Matchmaking for Beginners comes a novel about love, loss, and the beautiful mess of family.
Marnie MacGraw and Patrick Delaney have been in love for a few years now, enough to realize that they are imperfectly perfect together. Still, there are some things that maybe need a little attention. Marnie’s ebullient; he’s brooding. She thrives on change; he prefers stability. She sees marriage and parenthood in their future, but he can’t see beyond the shadow of an earlier tragedy.
Then an eight-year-old surprise from Patrick’s past shows up on their doorstep, cartwheeling into their lives and spinning things in all directions. While it’s not exactly the change she envisioned, it looks like instant family to Marnie. But Patrick, afraid of being hurt again, retreats further into himself. Suddenly, two very different pieces of a beautiful puzzle find it harder and harder to fit. How can Marnie trust in the magic of the universe when it seems to be doing its best to knock her off her feet?
But some love stories are worth waiting for. And what’s love without a little chaos anyway?
Marnie MacGraw and Patrick Delaney have been in love for a few years now, enough to realize that they are imperfectly perfect together. Still, there are some things that maybe need a little attention. Marnie’s ebullient; he’s brooding. She thrives on change; he prefers stability. She sees marriage and parenthood in their future, but he can’t see beyond the shadow of an earlier tragedy.
Then an eight-year-old surprise from Patrick’s past shows up on their doorstep, cartwheeling into their lives and spinning things in all directions. While it’s not exactly the change she envisioned, it looks like instant family to Marnie. But Patrick, afraid of being hurt again, retreats further into himself. Suddenly, two very different pieces of a beautiful puzzle find it harder and harder to fit. How can Marnie trust in the magic of the universe when it seems to be doing its best to knock her off her feet?
But some love stories are worth waiting for. And what’s love without a little chaos anyway?
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2020
3148 people are currently reading
8826 people want to read
About the author
Maddie Dawson
14 books1,542 followersI'm the author of eleven novels about love, crazy families, secrets, parenthood, and--yes, they have happy endings and some laughs as well as tears. (Just like life.) My newest, SNAP OUT OF IT, comes out on Jan. 3, 2023.
Also by me: The Magic of Found Objects, A Happy Catastrophe, Matchmaking for Beginners, The Survivor's Guide to Family Happiness, The Opposite of Maybe, The Stuff That Never Happened, Kissing Games of the World and A Piece of Normal.
My first novel, What Comes After Crazy, was written under the name Sandi Kahn Shelton.
Also by me: The Magic of Found Objects, A Happy Catastrophe, Matchmaking for Beginners, The Survivor's Guide to Family Happiness, The Opposite of Maybe, The Stuff That Never Happened, Kissing Games of the World and A Piece of Normal.
My first novel, What Comes After Crazy, was written under the name Sandi Kahn Shelton.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 842 reviews
June 27, 2021
OMG! It’s always pleasure to read a sequel after enjoying a book so much and truly connect with its characters. So I felt like seeing an old friend as soon as I welcomed back Marnie and her powerful optimism and her ability to see the magic around everything in the world, bringing love and compassion to people’s lives.
As a fan of Matchmaking for beginners, I was really curious about how Patrick and Marnie’s story will evolve because there was still some kind of unresolved issues about their relationship including Patrick’s traumatic past, his inner and outer scars, their opposite characteristics. I was so worried at some point: Marnie’s positive, cheerful, entertaining way of approaching to the matters will not endure much and it may be affected by Patrick’s pessimistic, stable and non risk-taking, introverted life-style.
On the second book: the problems start to occur about their relationship as I guessed. Marnie wants to have children and marriage as Patrick is so reluctant to be father, fighting with the demons of her past, guilt feelings, missing of her dead girlfriend. And then an eight years old, loud, ball of energy, hyper active little girl named Fritzie appear at their apartment door. Surprise: Patrick rejects to be a father but he already has a daughter from one night stand and he has to leave his safe place, getting rid of guilt feelings and taking some responsibilities for her child’s own good.
But he really messed so big this time: His insecurities and his fear not to be good enough for Marnie and secret he keeps from her damages their relationship. As Marnie goes to Florida to take care of her sick father, Patrick stays alone with his child and finds out he can be a good father and enjoy the parenthood.
So many things in this story were meaningful, emotional: living your past behind, learning from mistakes, opening your heart to love, parenthood, family bounding, magical power of sharing your compassion.
The only part irritated me was Patrick’s stubbornness and rejection of happiness. I wanted to scream at him to get his head out of his ass and start groveling to make Marnie forgive her! But till the last parts: he acted so unfair and broke her heart. It was logical, he needed time to face his past demons and redemption and I enjoyed his bounding with his child but at some parts I feel sad for Marnie who was truly hurting because of his obnoxious behavior.
So I’m cutting one star out and giving my 4 stars! This is a great feel-good fiction, romance, family drama and heart melting, poignant, lovable story! I have to emphasize I liked the sequel so much more than the first book. I’m looking forward to read upcoming books of the author.
As a fan of Matchmaking for beginners, I was really curious about how Patrick and Marnie’s story will evolve because there was still some kind of unresolved issues about their relationship including Patrick’s traumatic past, his inner and outer scars, their opposite characteristics. I was so worried at some point: Marnie’s positive, cheerful, entertaining way of approaching to the matters will not endure much and it may be affected by Patrick’s pessimistic, stable and non risk-taking, introverted life-style.
On the second book: the problems start to occur about their relationship as I guessed. Marnie wants to have children and marriage as Patrick is so reluctant to be father, fighting with the demons of her past, guilt feelings, missing of her dead girlfriend. And then an eight years old, loud, ball of energy, hyper active little girl named Fritzie appear at their apartment door. Surprise: Patrick rejects to be a father but he already has a daughter from one night stand and he has to leave his safe place, getting rid of guilt feelings and taking some responsibilities for her child’s own good.
But he really messed so big this time: His insecurities and his fear not to be good enough for Marnie and secret he keeps from her damages their relationship. As Marnie goes to Florida to take care of her sick father, Patrick stays alone with his child and finds out he can be a good father and enjoy the parenthood.
So many things in this story were meaningful, emotional: living your past behind, learning from mistakes, opening your heart to love, parenthood, family bounding, magical power of sharing your compassion.
The only part irritated me was Patrick’s stubbornness and rejection of happiness. I wanted to scream at him to get his head out of his ass and start groveling to make Marnie forgive her! But till the last parts: he acted so unfair and broke her heart. It was logical, he needed time to face his past demons and redemption and I enjoyed his bounding with his child but at some parts I feel sad for Marnie who was truly hurting because of his obnoxious behavior.
So I’m cutting one star out and giving my 4 stars! This is a great feel-good fiction, romance, family drama and heart melting, poignant, lovable story! I have to emphasize I liked the sequel so much more than the first book. I’m looking forward to read upcoming books of the author.
July 23, 2020
I have not read this book’s predecessor, Matchmaking for Beginners, but that did not decrease my enjoyment in any way. A Happy Catastrophe is a heartwarming, hopeful story I enjoyed very much.
Marnie and Patrick are hopelessly in love, even though they are opposites in many ways. One of the most polarizing issues is that Marnie is ready to tie the knot, while Patrick is still living in his past.
Then a “surprise” happens, which gives Marnie and Patrick an instant family, but Patrick hasn’t signed up for this, and the two grow apart a little.
Overall, A Happy Catastrophe is a quirky, charming story filled with hope and love. Marnie and Patrick are endearing in their own ways, and I was along for the ride in their love story.
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Marnie and Patrick are hopelessly in love, even though they are opposites in many ways. One of the most polarizing issues is that Marnie is ready to tie the knot, while Patrick is still living in his past.
Then a “surprise” happens, which gives Marnie and Patrick an instant family, but Patrick hasn’t signed up for this, and the two grow apart a little.
Overall, A Happy Catastrophe is a quirky, charming story filled with hope and love. Marnie and Patrick are endearing in their own ways, and I was along for the ride in their love story.
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
July 6, 2020
I did not read the first book in this sweet series. But I would say this can be read as a stand alone. I will go back and read the first book now. I really hope that everyone reads this series.
You are going to be pleasantly surprised by this one.
I gave this book 4 stars.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
You are going to be pleasantly surprised by this one.
I gave this book 4 stars.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
May 17, 2020
I loved the writing in this book, but not the story.
I loved Matchmaking for Beginners and thought it was a very special book. I was really looking forward to how Marnie and Patrick would progress in their relationship.
Unfortunately, I stopped liking Marnie very early on in this book. She tells Patrick she “needs” to have a baby with him as soon as possible. She needs a baby to be happy. He tells her in no uncertain terms that he can’t handle fatherhood. He just can’t do it. We know that Patrick has been through a tragedy that literally left him disfigured and killed a woman he loved. He has deep emotional and physical baggage. When he says he can’t handle fatherhood, that seems like a serious issue to talk through. Instead of soul searching and having deep conversation on the topic, just a day after that conversation, she’s texting him all day long about how many babies she’s seeing and how much she just loves them. It made it feel like a game she was playing. That was my first turn off with Marnie.
Next, there’s the shock of a lifetime when Tessa and her 8 year old daughter, Fritzie, show up on Patrick and Marnie’s doorstep. Surprise! Fritzie is the product of a two night stand Patrick and Tessa had. Marnie isn’t even a little troubled that her boyfriend has a secret child. She welcomes the overly-boisterous child with wide-open arms.
And then Patrick begins to withdraw into seriously black depression. He’s preparing for a comeback art exhibition, only the art is a bleak exploration of the fire he survived and his guilt and pain over his former girlfriend’s death in that fire. He’s consumed by complete, dangerous darkness. He hallucinates that the dead girlfriend is screaming in his head all the time and she’s talking to him, demanding 100% of his attention. He doesn’t tell Marnie about it, but she kind of notices that he’s completely withdrawing from life. But she doesn’t spend any time thinking about him. She’s got Fritzie to mother and wayward teens who hang out at her florist shop.
Next, she promises this husk of Patrick that she won’t go crazy with Thanksgiving this year. She’ll keep it quiet, for his sake, with just the three of them. He thanks her for that because, as we’ve seen, he’s deeply depressed and can’t face being around people. But, of course, by the next page, oops, Marnie allows a bunch of strangers to come for Thanksgiving. It’s ok though, because those people needed a place to be and Patrick can just deal with it. In his own home. While he’s battling a severe mental breakdown.
At that point, I didn’t want Marnie and Patrick to be together anymore. Her character is meant to be Blix reborn, caring and loving every broken soul visible, but when Patrick really needed some intervention, Marnie preferred to ignore it, waiting for Patrick to snap out of it on his own and, above all, to realize how much they loved each other, because that should fix him.
I couldn’t buy into that. I also couldn’t buy into the position that it was all Patrick’s fault. He needed help. Real help. Like therapy and possibly medication.
At the risk of sounding like a grinch, I wasn’t won over by Fritzie either. I didn’t like the name, which didn’t help, but she came off as loud and annoying rather than the plucky survivor she was supposed to be. That child needed therapy too. Abandoned by the only parent she’d known to live with two strangers? And her only way of “acting out” was to steal money to give to a homeless child in her classroom? Brassy orphan with a heart of gold.
I was initially willing to suspend my disbelief with the whole Fritzie situation, but with the further problem of Patrick’s mental breakdown, (and a few other people’s problems along the way) I just couldn’t love this story or its characters...even though the actual writing is excellent.
I loved Matchmaking for Beginners and thought it was a very special book. I was really looking forward to how Marnie and Patrick would progress in their relationship.
Unfortunately, I stopped liking Marnie very early on in this book. She tells Patrick she “needs” to have a baby with him as soon as possible. She needs a baby to be happy. He tells her in no uncertain terms that he can’t handle fatherhood. He just can’t do it. We know that Patrick has been through a tragedy that literally left him disfigured and killed a woman he loved. He has deep emotional and physical baggage. When he says he can’t handle fatherhood, that seems like a serious issue to talk through. Instead of soul searching and having deep conversation on the topic, just a day after that conversation, she’s texting him all day long about how many babies she’s seeing and how much she just loves them. It made it feel like a game she was playing. That was my first turn off with Marnie.
Next, there’s the shock of a lifetime when Tessa and her 8 year old daughter, Fritzie, show up on Patrick and Marnie’s doorstep. Surprise! Fritzie is the product of a two night stand Patrick and Tessa had. Marnie isn’t even a little troubled that her boyfriend has a secret child. She welcomes the overly-boisterous child with wide-open arms.
And then Patrick begins to withdraw into seriously black depression. He’s preparing for a comeback art exhibition, only the art is a bleak exploration of the fire he survived and his guilt and pain over his former girlfriend’s death in that fire. He’s consumed by complete, dangerous darkness. He hallucinates that the dead girlfriend is screaming in his head all the time and she’s talking to him, demanding 100% of his attention. He doesn’t tell Marnie about it, but she kind of notices that he’s completely withdrawing from life. But she doesn’t spend any time thinking about him. She’s got Fritzie to mother and wayward teens who hang out at her florist shop.
Next, she promises this husk of Patrick that she won’t go crazy with Thanksgiving this year. She’ll keep it quiet, for his sake, with just the three of them. He thanks her for that because, as we’ve seen, he’s deeply depressed and can’t face being around people. But, of course, by the next page, oops, Marnie allows a bunch of strangers to come for Thanksgiving. It’s ok though, because those people needed a place to be and Patrick can just deal with it. In his own home. While he’s battling a severe mental breakdown.
At that point, I didn’t want Marnie and Patrick to be together anymore. Her character is meant to be Blix reborn, caring and loving every broken soul visible, but when Patrick really needed some intervention, Marnie preferred to ignore it, waiting for Patrick to snap out of it on his own and, above all, to realize how much they loved each other, because that should fix him.
I couldn’t buy into that. I also couldn’t buy into the position that it was all Patrick’s fault. He needed help. Real help. Like therapy and possibly medication.
At the risk of sounding like a grinch, I wasn’t won over by Fritzie either. I didn’t like the name, which didn’t help, but she came off as loud and annoying rather than the plucky survivor she was supposed to be. That child needed therapy too. Abandoned by the only parent she’d known to live with two strangers? And her only way of “acting out” was to steal money to give to a homeless child in her classroom? Brassy orphan with a heart of gold.
I was initially willing to suspend my disbelief with the whole Fritzie situation, but with the further problem of Patrick’s mental breakdown, (and a few other people’s problems along the way) I just couldn’t love this story or its characters...even though the actual writing is excellent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2020
I really liked Matchmaking For Beginners. It was quirky and light and I was really excited to read the sequel. Unfortunately it flatlined almost immediately and never fully recovered. No complaints with the writing but the story was hard to get through. For one the whole magic and matchmaking stuff was cute when it was coming from a quirky old woman in book 1. We could all just laugh and roll our eyes and get back to real life in the next paragraph. But in this sequel, it’s taken too far. Marnie goes on and on about seeing sparkles around people and sticking eucalyptus into her bra. Everyone keeps asking her for magic spells and treating her like the neighborhood witch. It was just too ridiculous for Contemporary fiction.
Then there’s Marnie. Who I liked in book 1 but grew to despise almost immediately here. Patrick doesn’t like painting much but she’s pressured him into that. She’s pressured him into entering an art exhibit. She wants a baby but Patrick very respectfully explained why he wasn’t mentally/emotionally stable enough for a child. He very clearly told her he did not want a baby. But rather than respect that or have a conversation about it, she just flat out ignored him and proceeded to, you guessed it... pressure him into agreeing to give her a baby. This is shortly after she took it upon herself to invite his surprise 8 year old to live with them without once (even for a second) discussing it with him first. She then pressured him into dealing with all her stray friends and family on top of everything else when he asked her nicely not to. She sees he’s spiraling but doesn’t care. Or at least not enough to react. So now we have an emotionally fragile Patrick trying to prepare for an art exhibit, deal with the emotional baggage from his tragic past, please his self absorbed girlfriend, care for his annoying surprise kid, and entertain Marnie’s strays.... and of course, it slowly sends him deeper and deeper into depression until he’s so far gone he needs genuine professional help. But rather than self reflection or getting him help or having a conversation or any of 100 healthy approaches to tackling depression, Marnie just ignore it and tries to make him have sex with her so she can get pregnant with a child he blatantly does not want (or need).
Skim
Skim
Skim
In the end everything wraps up too perfectly. Marnie gets the baby she wanted. Patrick gets over his depression with (pet peeve) NO PROFESSIONAL HELP whatsoever. (Eye roll)
Blah
blah
blah.
No real adult conversations took place in the entire story. At least not where they were needed. Which made it impossible for me to connect with any of the characters. And that took the light out of the story for me. It was all too superficial. And considering serious issues like depression and parenting were highlighted, I expected better solutions than “magic” and “love”. Which... nothing against love obviously.... I love Love. but it doesn’t cure mental illness. Sorry to break it to you.
But it doesn’t.
Nope.
1.5 stars. However. I still recommend Book 1. It you haven’t read it you should. But stop there. No need to continue to this one.
Then there’s Marnie. Who I liked in book 1 but grew to despise almost immediately here. Patrick doesn’t like painting much but she’s pressured him into that. She’s pressured him into entering an art exhibit. She wants a baby but Patrick very respectfully explained why he wasn’t mentally/emotionally stable enough for a child. He very clearly told her he did not want a baby. But rather than respect that or have a conversation about it, she just flat out ignored him and proceeded to, you guessed it... pressure him into agreeing to give her a baby. This is shortly after she took it upon herself to invite his surprise 8 year old to live with them without once (even for a second) discussing it with him first. She then pressured him into dealing with all her stray friends and family on top of everything else when he asked her nicely not to. She sees he’s spiraling but doesn’t care. Or at least not enough to react. So now we have an emotionally fragile Patrick trying to prepare for an art exhibit, deal with the emotional baggage from his tragic past, please his self absorbed girlfriend, care for his annoying surprise kid, and entertain Marnie’s strays.... and of course, it slowly sends him deeper and deeper into depression until he’s so far gone he needs genuine professional help. But rather than self reflection or getting him help or having a conversation or any of 100 healthy approaches to tackling depression, Marnie just ignore it and tries to make him have sex with her so she can get pregnant with a child he blatantly does not want (or need).
Skim
Skim
Skim
In the end everything wraps up too perfectly. Marnie gets the baby she wanted. Patrick gets over his depression with (pet peeve) NO PROFESSIONAL HELP whatsoever. (Eye roll)
Blah
blah
blah.
No real adult conversations took place in the entire story. At least not where they were needed. Which made it impossible for me to connect with any of the characters. And that took the light out of the story for me. It was all too superficial. And considering serious issues like depression and parenting were highlighted, I expected better solutions than “magic” and “love”. Which... nothing against love obviously.... I love Love. but it doesn’t cure mental illness. Sorry to break it to you.
But it doesn’t.
Nope.
1.5 stars. However. I still recommend Book 1. It you haven’t read it you should. But stop there. No need to continue to this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2021
Lovely, wholesome, sweet, and perfect. My box of tissues turned out to be much needed fairly often,
but in a GOOD way!
I’m usually not this enamored with sequels but this one got me.
but in a GOOD way!
I’m usually not this enamored with sequels but this one got me.
February 26, 2020
If you enjoyed Matchmaking for Beginners as much as I did, prepare to be spellbound by A Happy Catastrophe—in which Marnie and the people closest to her discover that magic isn’t getting what you want, but rather in loving what life surprises you with. Maddie Dawson is at the top of her game in this charming and unputdownable novel.
November 4, 2021
When I started this book, I had not realised that it was a follow up on Matchmaking for Beginners, which I had read and enjoyed. Having gotten to know Marnie and Patrick in the previous book, their continuing journey together as a couple is not an easy straightforward one. Especially when Marnie decides they need to have a baby together, Patrick is less than enthusiastic.
And then Fritzie is dropped on their Brooklyn house. Her mother wants to leave the eight year old with Patrick as he is the unkowing father of this most precocious girl. Wonderful characters, lots of drama ensue. Anyone who has ever read Maddie Dawson before know you are in for an entertaining and emotional ride.
Well worth the journey.
And then Fritzie is dropped on their Brooklyn house. Her mother wants to leave the eight year old with Patrick as he is the unkowing father of this most precocious girl. Wonderful characters, lots of drama ensue. Anyone who has ever read Maddie Dawson before know you are in for an entertaining and emotional ride.
Well worth the journey.
May 24, 2020
2.5 stars
I really enjoyed Matchmaking for Beginners when I read it a couple years ago - it was full of charm and lively characters and a really sweet, fun read. I was hoping for the same in the sequel, but I'm sad to say it did not live up to the first book.
For the first 75% I was so annoyed at Patrick, who was regressing back to problems I thought had been resolved in the first book. I had so many issues with his character this time around that it was nearly impossible to ignore. But the WORST part was the how the first half or so of the book was Marnie and Patrick both completely disregarding the fact that they each wanted very different things in life, despite being the supposed "perfect couple" in all other regards.
Marnie has decided to tell Patrick that she desperately wants to to have a baby, while Patrick feels he will be the world's worst parent and wants no part of child-rearing. They spend most of the book passive-aggressively trying to convince the other person why they're right, and it's just so infuriating because this is a major life decision that no one should be pressured into one way or another, especially by their partner.
And there is a MAJOR plot hole that I could not get over through the entirety of the novel (without giving any spoilers, it has to do with the timing of 8 years, and I desperately want someone to talk to about how atrocious it is that it's never addressed).
There are some great new characters introduced this time around (shout-out to adorable little Fritzie!), and the ending was slightly redeeming, but that's the best compliment I can give to this one. I still highly recommend Matchmaking for Beginners for anyone looking for a light but charming romance, but I can't say the same for the sequel.
A Happy Catastrophe comes out May 26 if you decide to pick it up!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my advanced review copy.
I really enjoyed Matchmaking for Beginners when I read it a couple years ago - it was full of charm and lively characters and a really sweet, fun read. I was hoping for the same in the sequel, but I'm sad to say it did not live up to the first book.
For the first 75% I was so annoyed at Patrick, who was regressing back to problems I thought had been resolved in the first book. I had so many issues with his character this time around that it was nearly impossible to ignore. But the WORST part was the how the first half or so of the book was Marnie and Patrick both completely disregarding the fact that they each wanted very different things in life, despite being the supposed "perfect couple" in all other regards.
Marnie has decided to tell Patrick that she desperately wants to to have a baby, while Patrick feels he will be the world's worst parent and wants no part of child-rearing. They spend most of the book passive-aggressively trying to convince the other person why they're right, and it's just so infuriating because this is a major life decision that no one should be pressured into one way or another, especially by their partner.
And there is a MAJOR plot hole that I could not get over through the entirety of the novel (without giving any spoilers, it has to do with the timing of 8 years, and I desperately want someone to talk to about how atrocious it is that it's never addressed).
There are some great new characters introduced this time around (shout-out to adorable little Fritzie!), and the ending was slightly redeeming, but that's the best compliment I can give to this one. I still highly recommend Matchmaking for Beginners for anyone looking for a light but charming romance, but I can't say the same for the sequel.
A Happy Catastrophe comes out May 26 if you decide to pick it up!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my advanced review copy.
June 29, 2020
From the first chapter I fell in love with Marnie. She is this quirky flower shop owner and matchmaker. It seems she can see people's aura, which appear as sparkles, and uses that for matching, even at the most random times. This alone brings a huge smile to my face. Marnie wants to have a baby but her boyfriend Patrick doesn't see things quite the same way.
Then chapter 2 starts and you get a glimpse into Patrick's character. He's a quirky introvert with a troubled past. Despite him being quite the opposite of Marnie, they fit so well together.
I expected this to be a light fun read. At times it was but it was so much more. It was sad, sometimes dark, and sometimes uncomfortable. It was so much more than I expected it to be.
Thank you Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Then chapter 2 starts and you get a glimpse into Patrick's character. He's a quirky introvert with a troubled past. Despite him being quite the opposite of Marnie, they fit so well together.
I expected this to be a light fun read. At times it was but it was so much more. It was sad, sometimes dark, and sometimes uncomfortable. It was so much more than I expected it to be.
Thank you Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2020
I love a quirky and heart warming story about how families take shape. This one took Marnie and Patrick for one heck of a surprise. Nothing is perfect no matter the countless hours of planning or dreaming of the perfect and ideal family. I found myself once again connected and journeyed with the characters throughout the story.
This was an enjoyable read that was endearing and quite satisfying. I recommend this for a magical read full of hope and love.
This was an enjoyable read that was endearing and quite satisfying. I recommend this for a magical read full of hope and love.
January 14, 2025
Читала другу частину з різницею в рік, але це зовсім не вплинуло на враження.
Книга справді сподобалася - милий і затишний ромком для дорослих. Читаючи, уявляла цілу романтичну комедію в стилі 90-х, така атмосферна й приємна історія ☺️
Читалася легко й швидко - навіть не помічала, як засиджувалася за книгою по декілька годин.
Щоправда, були й мінуси. Спочатку головна героїня трохи дратувала своєю одержимістю темою дітей - це мені не надто близько. Але, попри це, книга мене зачепила.
*Єдине, що в кінці я все одно очікувала якоїсь особливої магії для головної героїні та її бажання.*
Книга справді сподобалася - милий і затишний ромком для дорослих. Читаючи, уявляла цілу романтичну комедію в стилі 90-х, така атмосферна й приємна історія ☺️
Читалася легко й швидко - навіть не помічала, як засиджувалася за книгою по декілька годин.
Щоправда, були й мінуси. Спочатку головна героїня трохи дратувала своєю одержимістю темою дітей - це мені не надто близько. Але, попри це, книга мене зачепила.
*Єдине, що в кінці я все одно очікувала якоїсь особливої магії для головної героїні та її бажання.*
May 29, 2020
I love when I read a book and I feel as if I am catching up with some old friends. We loved Marnie and Patrick when we first met them in Matchmaking for Beginners. It has been a while now and they have settled into their life together, happily it seems, and then Marnie broaches having a baby. Patrick has so many demons he still has to deal with and this one throws him for a loop. We also get thrown for a huge loop when a little girl named Fritzie shows up. She is Patrick's daughter from a couple day fling. He had no idea she even existed. Fritzie is left with them for a few months (sure) and that plus all the people who flock around the marvelous Marnie, makes things too much for Patrick. As he retreats, Marnie wonders if this isn't the life she is supposed to lead.
I wanted to throttle Patrick a few times. (Okay, a lot of times) But I do know that he was in a very deep depression and we hope against hope that he will see out of the dark and back into the Marnie light. Marnie is such a wonderful character, full of life, hope, zest, faith. I want some of her sparkle. Who wouldn't gravitate around her? Fritzie is precocious and the perfect match for Marnie. Every character brings more joy into the story.
My heart was lighter at the end and I really think it was something I needed in such strange, dark times. You cannot go wrong with anything that Maddie Dawson writes but do yourself a favor and read this little duo. You will thank me later.
Thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union for this little piece of joy.
I wanted to throttle Patrick a few times. (Okay, a lot of times) But I do know that he was in a very deep depression and we hope against hope that he will see out of the dark and back into the Marnie light. Marnie is such a wonderful character, full of life, hope, zest, faith. I want some of her sparkle. Who wouldn't gravitate around her? Fritzie is precocious and the perfect match for Marnie. Every character brings more joy into the story.
My heart was lighter at the end and I really think it was something I needed in such strange, dark times. You cannot go wrong with anything that Maddie Dawson writes but do yourself a favor and read this little duo. You will thank me later.
Thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union for this little piece of joy.
Read
May 22, 2020I ADORED Matchmaking for Beginners and made everyone read it. Dawson's voice is so warm and inviting that you feel like you're scraping a chair up to a lovingly worn table for a cup of tea and biscuits. I love it and the world and the characters so HOW DELIGHTED WAS I when I learned we got more from the Matchmaking world. Featuring one of the most resplendent openings I have read in an age and peeling back the curtain to the intersection of hope, loss and love, this has a lot of my go-to-favourite ingredients: a winsome and beguiling heroine who wrangles the narrative with magic and vulnerability, a sweet hero and a tapestry of colourful characters, the forging of family and wistful romance and a very strong sense of place and setting.
I am delighted that this offering just happened to find its way to me as the world was shifting because it is an imaginative balm.
I am delighted that this offering just happened to find its way to me as the world was shifting because it is an imaginative balm.
July 16, 2021
Love this one!
May 25, 2020
I was so happy that Marnie’s story was not over when I saw this book pop up on my radar! I loved Matchmaking for Beginners and although I thought it was better than the sequel, I still really enjoyed A Happy Catastrophe. It was just as quirky and full of drama! I definitely recommend picking it up if you enjoyed Matchmaking for Beginners!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a free advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a free advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for my copy.
I absolutely loved this book! I was so excited to see there was a sequel on Netgalley. I loved Matchmaking for Beginners. It was a book I found with Amazon First Reads. I loved it so much I bought an actual copy of it when it was released. I’ll be doing the same with this one as well.
This book continues Marnie and Patrick’s story. Marnie is ready to get married and have babies while Patrick is still living in his dark past.
Their problems begin to get worse when a woman shows up with Patrick’s daughter who is a product of a one night stand. Patrick did not know he had a daughter which brings more intense insecurities. He becomes afraid he isn’t enough for Marnie while Marnie believes in him with her whole heart.
This book is so realistic. I felt for both Marnie and Patrick as they try to work through so many issues. The ending was just perfect. It was so wonderful being back in their world. I may need another book of their story. ☺️
Thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for my copy.
I absolutely loved this book! I was so excited to see there was a sequel on Netgalley. I loved Matchmaking for Beginners. It was a book I found with Amazon First Reads. I loved it so much I bought an actual copy of it when it was released. I’ll be doing the same with this one as well.
This book continues Marnie and Patrick’s story. Marnie is ready to get married and have babies while Patrick is still living in his dark past.
Their problems begin to get worse when a woman shows up with Patrick’s daughter who is a product of a one night stand. Patrick did not know he had a daughter which brings more intense insecurities. He becomes afraid he isn’t enough for Marnie while Marnie believes in him with her whole heart.
This book is so realistic. I felt for both Marnie and Patrick as they try to work through so many issues. The ending was just perfect. It was so wonderful being back in their world. I may need another book of their story. ☺️
May 7, 2020
I enjoyed Match Making for Beginners and was looking forward to the sequel. This book was not the happily ever after that I was hoping for. This book implies that Marnie and Patrick had four great years and then plops us where the trouble begins. I had a really hard time reading about how Patrick pushed everyone away again, and how Marnie was too distracted to stop it. I feel like he treated her and Fritzie very badly, and I wanted someone to go in and shake some sense into him before he wasted so much time.
I do appreciate the character arc and Fritzie's explanation of how he had to paint out the bad to let in the good, but this story was too messy for me. Things got too low and I feel like they too quickly were put back together.
I did have a happy ending, but I was too annoyed with the characters at the end to celebrate with him.
I do appreciate the character arc and Fritzie's explanation of how he had to paint out the bad to let in the good, but this story was too messy for me. Things got too low and I feel like they too quickly were put back together.
I did have a happy ending, but I was too annoyed with the characters at the end to celebrate with him.
November 26, 2019
A triumphant tale about the redemptive magic of love—and the way life sometimes drags us through the muck before giving us what we never knew we wanted. Marnie is one of the most delightful heroines in contemporary fiction and you won’t want to miss her!
Moment of truth. When I saw that Dawson had written a follow up book to Matchmaking for Beginners, I was skeptical. How can you follow up a perfect book? Where is there to go? But if anything, this book is stronger than the first and I think I might, by a hair, love it more.
That said, you don't need to read Matchmaking first to love this book--but you should totally read them both.
Moment of truth. When I saw that Dawson had written a follow up book to Matchmaking for Beginners, I was skeptical. How can you follow up a perfect book? Where is there to go? But if anything, this book is stronger than the first and I think I might, by a hair, love it more.
That said, you don't need to read Matchmaking first to love this book--but you should totally read them both.
December 23, 2024
"Любов не завжди приходить такою, як ми собі її малюємо. Іноді, хоч нам і здається, що все робимо правильно, наше життя перетворюється на суцільну проблему, і ми хибно вважаємо, що з нами щось не так, та й поруч не ті люди, з ким нам хотілося би бути.
Насправді щастя можна знайти і міцному сні, виплаканих сльозах, гарячій ванній, чашці чую, танцях наодинці під голосно ввімкнуті музику.
Любові вистачить на всіх".
Насправді щастя можна знайти і міцному сні, виплаканих сльозах, гарячій ванній, чашці чую, танцях наодинці під голосно ввімкнуті музику.
Любові вистачить на всіх".
August 20, 2020
I dnf this book because I found it insufferable. I tried on numerous occasions to finish the book but the main characters were very annoying and I just couldn’t understand her selfishness. I’m aware that others enjoyed this book. It just wasn’t meant for me.
I received this ARC from Netgalley for my honest review.
I received this ARC from Netgalley for my honest review.
May 25, 2020
If you feel like you’re missing some sparkle, joie de vivre and a little bit of craziness in your life then I recommend you drop into Marnie’s world. Owner of Best Buds florist shop in Brooklyn, Marnie is a witchy matchmaker who see sparkles above people wherever she goes, believes in the magic power of the universe and occasionally uses spells to fulfill her dreams. Oh, and don’t forget her toaster which is inhabited by the spirit of Blix (the woman responsible for bringing Marnie and Patrick together) and offers inspiration and words of wisdom at every given opportunity. This sounds like the most bizzare scenario for a romantic tale but despite initial reservations it’s impossible not to get swept away in all the madness and I absolutely loved it.
Marnie is the most spontaneous, irrepressible, positive and eccentric character you could imagine with a hopelessly romantic heart. With some initial eye rolling at her ridiculously naive nature I felt like I’d been plucked from a black and white world into an alternative technicolour universe, with no idea
of the rules but happy to see where the ride would take me. Welcome to Planet Marnie!! Living with long term partner Patrick she spreads joy wherever she goes, happy to surround herself with the lovely customers who frequent The Frippery which adjoins her shop and acts as a haven for all those seeking a bit of Marnie magic. But there is one thing missing. A baby. At thirty something Marnie is feeling the burning desire to procreate but can she convince Patrick to commit to such a life changing decision when he is resolute in his belief that fatherhood is not for him??
After the first few pages I thought Marnie was going to be this annoying, irritating,far fetched character living in la la land but her love for life is infectious. In her eyes there’s nothing that can’t be sorted with a bit of sparkle, a wave of an imaginary fairy wand and a side helping of inspiration from toaster Blix. Except perhaps a baby. What first appears to be an extremely lighthearted frivolous storyline turns into a charming, emotionally charged novel when the planets align, Mercury is in retrograde and eight year old Fritzie enters their lives. Unbeknownst to Patrick, he is her bio-daddy and Tessa, Fritzie’s mum is looking to dump her child with an almost stranger so she can pursue her own love interest in Italy.
What follows is a rollercoaster of events with Fritzie at the helm, complimenting Marnie’s personality with her endless bouncing energy asking a million questions per minute!! Poor Marnie and Patrick don’t stand a chance in the face of this intelligent bundle of fun who turns their lives inside out and upside down. As a character, Fritzie is the icing on the cake for me, the cherry on top that makes this novel so appealing and enjoyable. I wanted to wrap my arms around this little girl, smother her with love and never let her go. Her innocence and curiosity and straight talking made my heart melt as well as make me chuckle!!
It is Patrick who provides a hefty dose of realism to counteract all the frothiness and is a complex character suffering from survivors guilt. The appearance of Fritzie in his life disrupts the status quo and unable to deal with his feelings, Patrick gradually retreats back to his own planet which is light years away from Marnie’s. Is this the end of their love story or can the spark be reignited? I liked the contrast between these two lovers, with such differing outlooks but confirming that opposites do attract. This is a love story full of quirky characters, humour, sadness, loss and hope and of course love.
A Happy Catastrophe is an utterly,utterly charming novel that took me by surprise with the depth of emotions it aroused in me. As I’ve already said it’s an emotionally charged novel that I think would translate well to the big screen. A delightful escapist read that will bewitch any incurable romantic. My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read.
Marnie is the most spontaneous, irrepressible, positive and eccentric character you could imagine with a hopelessly romantic heart. With some initial eye rolling at her ridiculously naive nature I felt like I’d been plucked from a black and white world into an alternative technicolour universe, with no idea
of the rules but happy to see where the ride would take me. Welcome to Planet Marnie!! Living with long term partner Patrick she spreads joy wherever she goes, happy to surround herself with the lovely customers who frequent The Frippery which adjoins her shop and acts as a haven for all those seeking a bit of Marnie magic. But there is one thing missing. A baby. At thirty something Marnie is feeling the burning desire to procreate but can she convince Patrick to commit to such a life changing decision when he is resolute in his belief that fatherhood is not for him??
After the first few pages I thought Marnie was going to be this annoying, irritating,far fetched character living in la la land but her love for life is infectious. In her eyes there’s nothing that can’t be sorted with a bit of sparkle, a wave of an imaginary fairy wand and a side helping of inspiration from toaster Blix. Except perhaps a baby. What first appears to be an extremely lighthearted frivolous storyline turns into a charming, emotionally charged novel when the planets align, Mercury is in retrograde and eight year old Fritzie enters their lives. Unbeknownst to Patrick, he is her bio-daddy and Tessa, Fritzie’s mum is looking to dump her child with an almost stranger so she can pursue her own love interest in Italy.
What follows is a rollercoaster of events with Fritzie at the helm, complimenting Marnie’s personality with her endless bouncing energy asking a million questions per minute!! Poor Marnie and Patrick don’t stand a chance in the face of this intelligent bundle of fun who turns their lives inside out and upside down. As a character, Fritzie is the icing on the cake for me, the cherry on top that makes this novel so appealing and enjoyable. I wanted to wrap my arms around this little girl, smother her with love and never let her go. Her innocence and curiosity and straight talking made my heart melt as well as make me chuckle!!
It is Patrick who provides a hefty dose of realism to counteract all the frothiness and is a complex character suffering from survivors guilt. The appearance of Fritzie in his life disrupts the status quo and unable to deal with his feelings, Patrick gradually retreats back to his own planet which is light years away from Marnie’s. Is this the end of their love story or can the spark be reignited? I liked the contrast between these two lovers, with such differing outlooks but confirming that opposites do attract. This is a love story full of quirky characters, humour, sadness, loss and hope and of course love.
A Happy Catastrophe is an utterly,utterly charming novel that took me by surprise with the depth of emotions it aroused in me. As I’ve already said it’s an emotionally charged novel that I think would translate well to the big screen. A delightful escapist read that will bewitch any incurable romantic. My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read.
May 16, 2024
Despite its somewhat happy title, A HAPPY CATASTROPHE covers serious topics and delves into the dark places of relationships. It's also the second in a series with reoccurring characters; I didn't read the first book and while I figured this one out, I think I would have enjoyed this more if I had known all the backstory. Marnie and Patrick get a bit of "surprise" from the past in the form of Fritzie. This both hurts and overjoys Marnie, because she's yearning to be a mom, and makes life difficult for Patrick, who is a very closed off person.
Fritzie is a delight, if a somewhat cliched precocious child, but even her situation is depressing, as she's left behind by her mother. She's still a funny, spunky kid and her journey was probably my favorite. Patrick has justifiable reasons for his emotional damage, but is an incredibly frustrating individual. The book focuses on the message that life has a way of working out, and while that's a wonderful thought, it perhaps gives a little too much credence to the "ways of the universe" and positive thinking versus acknowledging that sometimes life can be unfair, and you know, maybe a person could just use a little therapy. 3 stars.
Fritzie is a delight, if a somewhat cliched precocious child, but even her situation is depressing, as she's left behind by her mother. She's still a funny, spunky kid and her journey was probably my favorite. Patrick has justifiable reasons for his emotional damage, but is an incredibly frustrating individual. The book focuses on the message that life has a way of working out, and while that's a wonderful thought, it perhaps gives a little too much credence to the "ways of the universe" and positive thinking versus acknowledging that sometimes life can be unfair, and you know, maybe a person could just use a little therapy. 3 stars.
July 13, 2020
I haven’t read the first book but I didn’t really felt like missing much about that one as the author has a great way with her words and got me invested in the story throughout the book.
It was a funny and heartwarming story overall, with great reliable characters and situations that I can easily see happening in real life and I enjoyed it quite a lot.
I’ll definitely read more by the author in the future.
It was a funny and heartwarming story overall, with great reliable characters and situations that I can easily see happening in real life and I enjoyed it quite a lot.
I’ll definitely read more by the author in the future.
October 18, 2020
I enjoyed this novel of a less than traditional family with lots of interesting and loveable characters. I hadn't read the preceding novel but this one stood alone just fine. I did get a little impatient with Patrick's withdrawal from the family group at one point, but he ended up redeeming himself. I'm going to go back and read the first book too.
February 8, 2025
“Give everything you have to love. It’s the only thing that counts.”
Oh my heart! I loved this duology! So sweet to continue to follow the characters into their next phase of life! The middle got a little slow, but then my heart burst into a puddle for the last fourth and it was just EVERYTHING you want to feel when reading a book! Closed it feeling complete and satisfied with a smile! Excited to read more from this author. Highly recommend if you want a warm fuzzy book! 💕
Oh my heart! I loved this duology! So sweet to continue to follow the characters into their next phase of life! The middle got a little slow, but then my heart burst into a puddle for the last fourth and it was just EVERYTHING you want to feel when reading a book! Closed it feeling complete and satisfied with a smile! Excited to read more from this author. Highly recommend if you want a warm fuzzy book! 💕
July 11, 2020
WOW!! A first by me by this amazing author and I must say it’s one of my favorite books of 2020!! This was a well written and captivating story I read in a day and hated to put down! I read as a stand-alone and I can’t wait to read book one Matchmaking for beginners!! A heartwarming story of love, loss, family and surprises that change everything! I highly recommend this book it was a fantastic feel good read!
June 25, 2021
Probably a 2.5! I liked the first book a lot more!
May 25, 2020
Publishers Synopsis:
From the bestselling author of Matchmaking for Beginners comes a novel about love, loss, and the beautiful mess of family.
Marnie MacGraw and Patrick Delaney have been in love for a few years now, enough to realize that they are imperfectly perfect together. Still, there are some things that maybe need a little attention. Marnie’s ebullient; he’s brooding. She thrives on change; he prefers stability. She sees marriage and parenthood in their future, but he can’t see beyond the shadow of an earlier tragedy. Then an eight-year-old surprise from Patrick’s past shows up on their doorstep, cartwheeling into their lives and spinning things in all directions. While it’s not exactly the change she envisioned, it looks like instant family to Marnie. But Patrick, afraid of being hurt again, retreats further into himself. Suddenly, two very different pieces of a beautiful puzzle find it harder and harder to fit. How can Marnie trust in the magic of the universe when it seems to be doing its best to knock her off her feet? But some love stories are worth waiting for. And what’s love without a little chaos anyway?
Review: This is now my favourite book of all time. Let me say it again. This is now (and I cannot stress this enough) my favourite book of all time. I’ve never had a favourite author before, but if that is what this little warm feeling in my heart is then I’ll take it, and a copy of ALL of Maddie Dawson’s books. Full disclosure (because I pride myself with how honest I am with these reviews) this book was in a huge pile (HUGE!) of netgalley arcs that needed to be read. Even with the publication date approaching, I was nowhere near reading this book. Then I received an email from the publisher (assumingly as did other owners of the arc) and it triggered something in me to bring this book to the top (I now know that was Blix working her magic on me).
From the first chapter I was swept up into the lives of Marnie and Patrick. I genuinely and honestly couldn’t put the book down. I made a note one day during a rare moment that I wasn’t reading this book and it says, verbatim, that I genuinely missed the characters in the book. I wasn’t even half way through yet! The cart-wheeling eight year old that comes out of nowhere and into their lives is an accurate depiction of my character as a child. I am, in all regards, the living adult version of Fritzey. Unfortunately, my quirks, mannerisms and constant chatter was suppressed, by all means, by my mother. So it was incredibly refreshing to read about how every adult in this little girls life just took her as she was and let her be. I think that might be for the most part why for me this book is such a winner. I don’t believe in crystal, or holistic healing or moon phases, or burning sage or mercury in retrograde or any of that. None of it. I don’t even belong to a religion (although I respect all religions and people that come from them) but I do like magic. So the touch of magic in this book, combined with Fritzeys energizer bunny personality, and the love story that is Marnie and Patrick just has this book ticking all of my boxes.
Initially, i was worried that I hadn’t read Dawson’s previous book “match making for beginners” and was worried this would affect my ability to love this book. Hey, it didn’t and now I want no less than seven copies of both. I could talk forever about how good this book is- one night I even skipped a meal in order to read more!- but I think you get the point. I’ve read a lot of books the last few months. No less than 20 papers and 20 arc’s. But this one beats them all. I want to carry it around with me wherever I go. I am now Maddie Dawson’s biggest fan and the #1 promoter for this novel.
My sincerest thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
5/5 stars
From the bestselling author of Matchmaking for Beginners comes a novel about love, loss, and the beautiful mess of family.
Marnie MacGraw and Patrick Delaney have been in love for a few years now, enough to realize that they are imperfectly perfect together. Still, there are some things that maybe need a little attention. Marnie’s ebullient; he’s brooding. She thrives on change; he prefers stability. She sees marriage and parenthood in their future, but he can’t see beyond the shadow of an earlier tragedy. Then an eight-year-old surprise from Patrick’s past shows up on their doorstep, cartwheeling into their lives and spinning things in all directions. While it’s not exactly the change she envisioned, it looks like instant family to Marnie. But Patrick, afraid of being hurt again, retreats further into himself. Suddenly, two very different pieces of a beautiful puzzle find it harder and harder to fit. How can Marnie trust in the magic of the universe when it seems to be doing its best to knock her off her feet? But some love stories are worth waiting for. And what’s love without a little chaos anyway?
Review: This is now my favourite book of all time. Let me say it again. This is now (and I cannot stress this enough) my favourite book of all time. I’ve never had a favourite author before, but if that is what this little warm feeling in my heart is then I’ll take it, and a copy of ALL of Maddie Dawson’s books. Full disclosure (because I pride myself with how honest I am with these reviews) this book was in a huge pile (HUGE!) of netgalley arcs that needed to be read. Even with the publication date approaching, I was nowhere near reading this book. Then I received an email from the publisher (assumingly as did other owners of the arc) and it triggered something in me to bring this book to the top (I now know that was Blix working her magic on me).
From the first chapter I was swept up into the lives of Marnie and Patrick. I genuinely and honestly couldn’t put the book down. I made a note one day during a rare moment that I wasn’t reading this book and it says, verbatim, that I genuinely missed the characters in the book. I wasn’t even half way through yet! The cart-wheeling eight year old that comes out of nowhere and into their lives is an accurate depiction of my character as a child. I am, in all regards, the living adult version of Fritzey. Unfortunately, my quirks, mannerisms and constant chatter was suppressed, by all means, by my mother. So it was incredibly refreshing to read about how every adult in this little girls life just took her as she was and let her be. I think that might be for the most part why for me this book is such a winner. I don’t believe in crystal, or holistic healing or moon phases, or burning sage or mercury in retrograde or any of that. None of it. I don’t even belong to a religion (although I respect all religions and people that come from them) but I do like magic. So the touch of magic in this book, combined with Fritzeys energizer bunny personality, and the love story that is Marnie and Patrick just has this book ticking all of my boxes.
Initially, i was worried that I hadn’t read Dawson’s previous book “match making for beginners” and was worried this would affect my ability to love this book. Hey, it didn’t and now I want no less than seven copies of both. I could talk forever about how good this book is- one night I even skipped a meal in order to read more!- but I think you get the point. I’ve read a lot of books the last few months. No less than 20 papers and 20 arc’s. But this one beats them all. I want to carry it around with me wherever I go. I am now Maddie Dawson’s biggest fan and the #1 promoter for this novel.
My sincerest thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
5/5 stars
December 13, 2020
Insipid and aggravating, absolute tripe
I didn’t realize this was a sequel. In fact, it’s a sequel to a book I absolutely couldn’t stand and only barely finished, only because it’s always been difficult for me to *not* finish a book. I have no such qualms about ending this irritating inanity.
Marnie is clueless, self-centered, naive, and annoying. Patrick has been pushed into a relationship with her, but is suffering from intense PTSD along with physical scarring from a fire, but receives no care for either. It’s supposed to be that he is done with his physical treatments (which I doubt would be the case in reality), and his mental health isn’t important to Marnie, his girlfriend. That alone makes the characters’ dynamic, in a “romantic comedy”, untenable.
Marnie decides that she not only wants a baby, but that Patrick’s desire to not father a baby is really not a big deal, because she’s one-dimensional and flaky twit, who really only cares about herself. And neither, honestly, need a child.
Enter Tessa, who definitely isn’t mother material. Too bad she had a 2 night stand with Patrick 9 years before and had Fritzie. Oh, and didn’t bother to tell Patrick. Now, at 49? 50? She can’t pawn her kid off on her mom in England, so she dumps her on Marnie and Patrick. Seriously?! That alone is enough, but she doesn’t know them! I don’t think this character would care though, because she’s a s#!++y mom. The kid has what sounds like ADHD and has essentially been raising herself. Her behavior is absolutely intolerable, yet it’s played off as, I guess, cute? No, just no. Has this author ever been around kids like this? Or kids in general? If so, I’d be shocked. Adults don’t let the kind of ridiculous things Fritzie (and what a terrible name) does go on because they’re obnoxious, rude, and sometimes dangerous. I have kids, and this isn’t how 8 year olds act unless they’ve been raised by wolves. I couldn’t bear to go on, so I stopped reading it. I don’t care what happens to these a$$holes.
I feel like this book is where peace and brain cells go to die.
And avoid the narration. For the love of your nerves, just avoid it. Her voice for the ill-mannered, horribly named brat that is Fritzie will grate on the very last nerve you have until it’s shredded like stinky cheese. The vocal fry and timing that a child of 8 wouldn’t use are more appropriate for either a teenager or the denizen of your most annoying nightmare. You choose.
All in all, it was a waste of my time and if you have any taste, would be a waste of yours as well. Skip this utter tripe and thank your lucky stars that someone is honest & you didn’t go through what I did. Ugh.
I didn’t realize this was a sequel. In fact, it’s a sequel to a book I absolutely couldn’t stand and only barely finished, only because it’s always been difficult for me to *not* finish a book. I have no such qualms about ending this irritating inanity.
Marnie is clueless, self-centered, naive, and annoying. Patrick has been pushed into a relationship with her, but is suffering from intense PTSD along with physical scarring from a fire, but receives no care for either. It’s supposed to be that he is done with his physical treatments (which I doubt would be the case in reality), and his mental health isn’t important to Marnie, his girlfriend. That alone makes the characters’ dynamic, in a “romantic comedy”, untenable.
Marnie decides that she not only wants a baby, but that Patrick’s desire to not father a baby is really not a big deal, because she’s one-dimensional and flaky twit, who really only cares about herself. And neither, honestly, need a child.
Enter Tessa, who definitely isn’t mother material. Too bad she had a 2 night stand with Patrick 9 years before and had Fritzie. Oh, and didn’t bother to tell Patrick. Now, at 49? 50? She can’t pawn her kid off on her mom in England, so she dumps her on Marnie and Patrick. Seriously?! That alone is enough, but she doesn’t know them! I don’t think this character would care though, because she’s a s#!++y mom. The kid has what sounds like ADHD and has essentially been raising herself. Her behavior is absolutely intolerable, yet it’s played off as, I guess, cute? No, just no. Has this author ever been around kids like this? Or kids in general? If so, I’d be shocked. Adults don’t let the kind of ridiculous things Fritzie (and what a terrible name) does go on because they’re obnoxious, rude, and sometimes dangerous. I have kids, and this isn’t how 8 year olds act unless they’ve been raised by wolves. I couldn’t bear to go on, so I stopped reading it. I don’t care what happens to these a$$holes.
I feel like this book is where peace and brain cells go to die.
And avoid the narration. For the love of your nerves, just avoid it. Her voice for the ill-mannered, horribly named brat that is Fritzie will grate on the very last nerve you have until it’s shredded like stinky cheese. The vocal fry and timing that a child of 8 wouldn’t use are more appropriate for either a teenager or the denizen of your most annoying nightmare. You choose.
All in all, it was a waste of my time and if you have any taste, would be a waste of yours as well. Skip this utter tripe and thank your lucky stars that someone is honest & you didn’t go through what I did. Ugh.
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