Thanks again to #netgalley for allowing me to read this hilarious book before release
Katy Birchall has written an amazingly funny, emotional and true to life book about weddings, bridesmaids and families. I think every bride should have a secret bridesmaid it would make life so much easier and less stressful
The book follows the life of Sophie a secret bridesmaid who goes quite honestly above and beyond for her brides as you will see in the Wookiee story !!
But Lady Cordelia Swann is a whole different level of complex she doesn’t want Sophie but her mother has hired Sophie and unless Sophie quits she stays
So Cordelia's mission is too get her to quit by whatever means possible but who will win ??

I loved this book! It was a slow burner but kept me guessing throughout as to whether Sophie would win over Cornelia. There were plenty of hilarious moments too. More adventures of Sophie please! Fans of Anna Bell will enjoy this !

I loved this!!


Sophie isn’t just an incredible event planner, or a wedding planner, she’s both titles squished under the career ‘professional bridesmaid’
Able to become the sudden, long lost best friend of any bride, Sophie steps in to support brides make their dream days come true, without anyone knowing she’s anything other than a very helpful, doting bridesmaid.

She finds her biggest ever challenge with Lady Cordelia Swann, an aristocratic, self centred, highest of the high maintenance bride (who happens to have an extremely handsome brother...)

I laughed, smiled and felt all the anxious nerves for Sophie whilst reading this. The character development was perfect and Sophie is my new favourite book character ever!

Sophie is a professional bridesmaid, she’s there for the bride as a friend and someone to delegate tasks whilst allowing them to still take ownership of their big day. Sophie gets recommended to Lady Meade for her daughters big day. Lady Cordelia is not impressed that her mother has hired her a ‘friend’ and does everything in her power to try and get Sophie to quit. Alongside this Sophie’s ex of 8 years has invited her to his wedding to the girl he met 2 months after breaking it off with Sophie. Cordelia needs Sophie even if she doesn’t want to admit it but maybe Sophie needs Cordelia just as much...

I loved this - I accidentally binged it in one sitting. Sophie is the best, I want to be her friend. I think being a professional bridesmaid might be my secret calling? (Minus the Chewbacca costume...) I laughed out loud throughout this book and really liked all the characters, they all had a depth to them I really enjoyed.

This is a serious contender for my favourite rom com of the year!

I really enjoyed reading this book. I love books that make me laugh in places..
The story is about romance, love, friendship and loyalty.
The story was great and made it a great page turner ,,one of those books where you don’t want it to end ! . The story is about Sophie and her business, and of being a bridesmaid to totally strangers. She comes across Cordelia and her mum and is hired her to help with Cordelia’s wedding. Cordelia is not happy so a little bit of a challenge comes with this new job. Loved it and would enjoy reading it again.
Thank you NetGalley and Hodder and Stoughton for letting me read this book.

The Secret Bridesmaid is a fun laugh out loud read, that will leave you smiling. Perfect for summer.

The Secret Bridesmaid is the story of Sophie Breeze, a professional bridesmaid. She is there to be the bride's best friend throughout the planning and wedding process. When she gets a word of mouth recommendation for the wedding of the year, she jumps at the chance, even if the bride doesn't really want her there. The bride's mother is insistent, however, that she stay.

I LOVED this book. I find it is so easy to miss the mark with a book like this, but it was everything I wanted from a light, breezey, easy read. This is Birchall's debut adult novel, and the talent for writing is evident. I adored the characters, the storyline was cleverly executed, and I left this one with a massive smile on my face.

The focus on this book could have so easily become a cheesy romance, but I really liked that Birchall focused on friendship instead. Sophie and Cordelia's friendship, and Sophie and Cara's friendship, are so different and so well juxtaposed. I really liked how both of these were presented, and how this book explored so many different types of love, but so subtly.

I enjoyed this so much, I immediately ordered myself a copy for my bookshelf. I know I'll be reading this one over and over, and I can't wait to see what Birchall writes next.

Thank you to Katy Birchall, Hodder & Stoughton, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book was a breeze to read and in places actually made me laugh out loud! I enjoyed the mixed media (emails and texts) being dropped it, it helped to really break up the story.

I loved Sophie from the beginning and Cordelia and Tom both grew on me so much throughout the book. I really enjoyed how it ended and would love to know what happens next...

What a blast. A little Bridget Jones-ish in places. Thought the original phone call and meeting would be to "secret bridesmaid" at her ex's nuptials. Loved Cordelia and her family. Wonder if part of the concept came from the TV series Bad Bridesmaid but with a twist. It was a lovely book to read. In fact I read it twice. Also reminds me of my own wedding where my husband and I paid four witnesses to be our bridal party. Not in UK!!

Sophie Breeze is a bridesmaid – not your usual one, but a professional bridesmaid – her job is to be there for the bride no matter what and to fulfill all her wishes, and they include really everything, there is nothing Sophie says „no“ to. And she’s really good at what she does. But then she’s hired by Lady Victoria Swann for THE wedding that could make or break Sophie’s career – the most anticipated one, of her daughter Cordelia. The only problem is, Cordelia doesn’t want to hear about Sophie and claims she doesn’t need her help. Will Sophie be able to meet all the challenges set by Cordelia, determined to force Sophie to quit? And there is also the bride’s lovely, sexy brother Tom, who may be flirting with Sophie? Can she risk to jeopardise her job?

This book’s main character somehow reminds me of Sophie Kinsella’s Shopaholic Becky – she only wants all the good things and then puts herself into embarrassing positions and situations. She has a heart in the right place, is a bit naive and good - natured and still Sophie is sassy, quirky and incredibly funny. Sure, there was a moment or two when I wanted to shake her, when Cordelia was treating her in this awful way, but then, I think, Sophie emerged from the crises unscathed, showing that she has a sense of humour and her own pride. She’s one of the characters that you simply like from the very beginning and even though she does everything in such a great way, with tons of patience and a smile, she’s never annoying. On the contrary, you want that everything works out best for her. I loved seeing her personal growth, seeing her coming out of her comfort zones.

I think that this book is so much more than only a romcom or easy chick – lit because it goes deep into female friendship, trust and personal growth, this all brought to us in a lovely, approachable and light way. It is about trust and betrayal, about coming out of your shell, opening and trusting again. There was a romance, of course there was, but only as a subplot – although a very entertaining one – and I found it great. It was not an easy relationship, the friendship between Sophie and Cordelia, and the way to it was full of bumps and obstacles, and while I would have probably given up already, Sophie persevered, believing there is so much more to Cordelia than meets the eye. Cordelia didn’t make it light for Sophie, oh no, and I had some problems with her at the beginning, not being sure why she is like this, and where is the soft side of her that her brother or fiancé were talking about, while she only came across as spoiled and catty, but believe me, when you find it, you’ll going to get her and her ways completely – kudos to the author for making her a complex and complicated character, not easy to accept – but this way she has showed us a lesson or two on stereotypes and judging the book by its cover!

The story – telling was flying and it was lovely, fast – paced and so readable, filled with humour and depth and it was impossible to put the book down, I’ve truly lost myself in this story. It’s such a feel – good read, and it allows you to chuckle to yourself at some of the bride disasters and Sophie, always in control, navigating multiple requests, no matter how ridiculous. You know, it is also a bit thought – provoking, because, well, there are such bridezillas out there, right, who really go over the limit with their whims.
This is a story filled with panic attacks, bridezillas, hilarious situations (yes, Chewbacca’s costume, I’m looking at you) and brilliant emails and Whatsapp exchange – they were priceless! There are plenty of hilarious situations that were not overdone, which is absolutely wonderful, because it could easily go over the top, but was not the case here. Yes, the book was a light – hearted and easy to read chick – lit, and probably it won’t change the world, but I enjoyed it whole – heartedly. It made me laugh, it made me cringe with embarrassment, it left me feeling optimistic and satisfied, and this is why it deserves those shiny, bright 5 stars. It was a brilliant mood booster, an uplifting story filled with great, colourful and vivid characters, a real gem of a book that will brighten up the dullest day. Truly recommended!

This was a great fun read. Loved the characters and the romance. Really good book to enjoy when on holiday.

I absolutely lost myself in the magic of this book, the romance, the laughter and at times downright hilarity - it was the best tonic ever. Nothing is too much trouble, nothing is ever impossible - Sophie is a professional bridesmaid, hand holding the bride and her bridal party throughout the lead up to the wedding and making the impossible, possible.

The story is told as she navigates multiple weddings, never dropping the smile - she has separate Whattsapp groups, one for each of the weddings and we as a reader join her in her wedding planning - she literally never misses a beat and takes the stress out of every wedding, reminding me of a cross between a juggler and a magician - and allowing us the reader to a fly on the wall access to her life via her emails and text messages.

I’d so like to be her best friend and spend an evening in a wine bar with her listening to her tales of the highs and lows of being a professional bridesmaid. The tears literally slid down my cheeks, I was crying laughing throughout as I read, especially as she accommodated some of the more obscure requests from brides - to - be, slotting into their wedding day seamlessly as if she’d been best friends forever, playing a cameo role in their special day.

I loved Sophie and was cheerleading her on when she was introduced to a particularly difficult bride, the demands were beyond belief and nobody would have blamed her for losing her stack and telling the bride where to get off. Nothing phased her but this particular bride and her family pushed her to the brink of despair - I alternated between being angry and or upset for her. I loved her dad though, he quietly reminded her of her values and strengths, pushing her gently to step back and evaluate the situation. Giving her the space to take back control.

The Secret Bridesmaid is full of romance obviously, but throughout I was rooting for Sophie to find her own Prince Charming and happy ever after - always the bridesmaid, never the bride! You’ll have to read it to find out if she does. It’s a totally feel good read that melted my heart, made me smile and grin like an idiotic and belly laugh until I cried. It’s the sort of book that when you pick it up, if you’re feeling a little bit low or the day is drab and grey it won’t be for long - it’ll lift your spirits and brighten your day. I totally recommend The Secret Bridesmaid, I think it’s a book that should be issued on prescription - it was the best lockdown tonic I’ve had

Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read this book.

Sophie is a professional bridesmaid, she is hired by a bride to be their bridesmaid and help organise the wedding. When she lands the high profile wedding of Lady Cordelia Swann by her mother Lady Victoria Swann. Cordelia isn’t happy that her mom has hired Sophie and does everything she can to make Sophie change her mind and leave Cordelia sort the wedding arrangements out. Can Sophie cope with Cordelia and give her the wedding she wants or will she be driven away.

A good read.

A winner for me!
This book is light hearted and would be perfect for a holiday read - If we ever get to go on holiday again! Recommend as a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Secret Bridesmaid is a sweet and charming tale with love and friendship at its core.

Sophie Breeze is paid to be a bridesmaid - but her role is a secret. To everyone else she is a friend to the bride, when in reality she is a professional who ensures weddings go smoothly and the bride's needs are catered for.

When she is hired to be Lady Cordelia Swann's bridesmaid, things do not go smoothly. Cordelia is rude, belligerent and determined to force Sophie to quit. There is also the complication of Tom, brother to the bride, who Sophie is increasingly attracted to. The feeling is mutual but she is not who he thinks she is and she can't reveal the truth.

The harder Cordelia pushes, the more determined Sophie is to win her trust - she sees behind the prickly exterior to the damaged girl who is afraid to trust.

Just as everything seems to be falling into place, a betrayal causes a rift that unravels all Sophie's endeavours.

But will Cordelia discover the truth and realise Sophie has become a true friend and not a paid employee?

Funny, warm and feel good, The Secret Bridesmaid is a lovely escape and a wonderful debut into adult fiction.

This is a great fun, easy read that is perfect for a few hours of escapism. `Sophie works as a professional bridesmaid, helping brides ensure their big days go smoothly. When she finds herself with an impossible client, will she be able to wine her over?

Its a clever, different concept and the characters are well written and relatable. There are plenty of amusing moments in the book, as well as some clever asides at the end of each chapter email/message exchanges referring to other weddings, illustrating the crazier aspects of modern weddings. The book made me smile, made me laugh and I look forward to reading future books by Birchall.

Firstly, thank you Netgalley, Hodder & Stoughton and Katy Birchall for this ARC.

I devoured this book! It was such a funny and heartwarming read.

I found myself invested in the characters and the plot and the writing style really suited the fun aspect of the book. It would be a perfect summer read while away on holiday.

This is the first Katy Birchall book I have read but it won’t be the last. I would recommend this book to anyone who is after a light and humorous read.

Funny and Delightful
5 stars

This is the first time I’ve encountered and read Katy Birchall, and also the first adult fiction that she’s published - she has, until now, exclusively written young adult fiction.

Sophie is a professional bridesmaid and while that’s a big part of her personality and her life, I found her profession both interesting and surprisingly believable. I really hope there are such people in real life. But more than that, Sophie was a hugely likeable and relatable character. She tries hard, sometimes gets in sticky situations but is always upbeat and positive. I especially liked the fact that Sophie is a bit of a goody two shoes - which is a source of frustration for her. She was a rule follower but - maybe unbeknownst to her - she was also just sassy and feisty enough for me to love her.

Cordelia is such a big part of the book that I have to mention her in this review. And boy was she a pain in the derrière. However as Sophie gets to know her, so do we - and even when she was being a pain and pushing Sophie’s buttons, I had a major soft spot for her. She was pretty funny. The banter and teasing between Sophie and Cordelia became a huge source of joy for me.

I’ll admit that Tom was a bit of a mystery to me, even at the end. He was a viscount. He was hot to trot with arms that wound’t quit. He was a businessman but he also seemed to slack off work on occasion. He was confident and always had a hot girl on his arm, but equally he blushed every now and then and walked around with bed head. Don’t get me wrong, I liked him, I just didn’t get to know him as the book is written entirely from Sophie’s perspective.

There are plenty of ways in which Ms Birchall could have taken us down a tried and tested path - the overbearing mother, the continual pining for her ex etc etc. I wouldn’t have minded going down these paths but I was pleasantly pleased that we didn’t get the expected. Sophie’s mum was pretty normal - a tad pushy, a tad quirky but still a loving and kind mother who had a sweet relationship with Sophie. And while whatshisface was an issue for a hot second, luckily he didn’t play much part in the latter stages of the book - either as a character, or in Sophie’s thoughts.

I loved the writing style of the book and it just spoke to me. So easily devoured, I forgot I was reading for the most part. And the amount of times I snort laughed was immense. There were also some smiles and chuckles - and a down right belly laugh when Sophie found herself running through London in a fluffy costume! So funny.

The book is billed as a romcom and while it is romantic and definitely funny, the romance element really doesn’t take the main focus of the story. It all wraps up nicely and I was happy with that part of the storyline, but it definitely wasn’t the be all and end all of the book for me. That’s definitely not a complaint, however, as this book was an absolute delight. I loved the characters, loved the story, laughed a lot and ended with a happy and satisfied feeling. I really hope that this gets made into a movie as I will be all over that shit in a hot minute.

This book was a really good time and one I would happily recommend. I’ll also be keeping my eye out for Katy Birchall’s next novel as I’m excited to read more from her. 5 stars.

I really enjoyed reading this book, a lovely Summer read. It was an easy flowing, light hearted book with a lot of twists and turns that had me laughing and cringing along the way. Very believable characters and a great story about trust and friendship. Would recommend for a charming, fun read.

This was a nice light hearted book, not my usual thing I’d go to but it was lovely to sit down and escape into Sophie’s world! I loved Sophie and thought she was a brilliant character she had me laughing out loud throughout the book! A great book to while away the hours in the sunshine with!