I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.

Annie is all set to marry the love of her life, Alexander. She gets ready, heads to the church with her BFF, little sister, and dad. That is odd - why is the wedding planner standing outside the church with a pained look on her face? Alexander texted her - he is not coming.

Annie's world is turned upside down. As she tries to figure out the next steps in her life, including finding a new place to live, she starts exercising and joins a local bootcamp. While leaving there one day, "Annie?" asks a man (Patrick) at the gym. It turns out it they did a drama camp when they were 14 and have not seen each other since.

As they reconnect, Alexander's mother pushes Annie to take the lavish honeymoon (3 weeks in Australia!!!) she paid for. In a drunken conversation, Annie invites Patrick on her honeymoon.

What will happen next? Will this honeymoon be a trip to remember or a trip to forget?

I really enjoyed this book and had trouble putting it down for real life problems - i.e. - work.

I look forward to reading more by this author.

When her fiancé doesn't show up at the alter, Annie goes on a journey to discover her true self.

Annie has been with her fiancé since college and the obvious next step in their relationship is to get married. When he leaves her before the wedding, she's devastated and, after being offered a completely paid for honeymoon, decides to take the opportunity. One drunken night, she invites Patrick, an old acquaintance from her teenage years with whom she recently reconnects. They fly to Australia for their 3 week adventure as Patrick teaches her how to love who she is.

This book was a fun read, but not my preference for books. Those who enjoy stories where the female has to find herself and see who she is without a man in her life, this book is for you. Annie is very driven by other people's opinions of her and puts all the blame on herself for things that are not her fault. I found that very frustrating about her and while it's great to see her grow, she still continues to let people influence her decisions and I wish we had seen her fight back a little sooner.

This book was perfect for a summer read, the plot was fantastic and definitely gets you dreaming about reconnecting with someone you love on a romantic trip! I loved that this story was focused on finding what makes you truly happy instead of just settling, and it was fantastically written!! A truly lovely read.

The Honeymoon without a husband at all? Why not?

Annie was left standing at the altar after Alexander decided to send a text that he cannot marry her and leave without any more explanation. It hurt. It was the last thing that she would expect from him. Now, she's alone, broken-hearted, and with no clue what to do next. Then, she decided to go on her honeymoon. Alone. I mean, not exactly alone...

She decided to go to Australia with her old friend. They did not speak in years and after a brief meeting there felt a mutual bond. Spontaneously, agreed to go on holiday and use this time to chill and find the courage to move on.

It is not a typical holiday romance to read on the beach. It is much more. Of course, the love story is brilliant. I love how they realize feelings for each other, how they manage to take it slow and respect each other needs in this time. But this book is also about how to find own voice. To say aloud how you feel, what do you need, desire and to say yes to life opportunities. The changes in Annie are so inspiring and I truly admire her approach in this challenging time.

Moreover, the Lucky Escape is so excellent written that I have read it in one day! So funny, witty, and cute! A lot of alcohol, breath-taking landscapes and a bunch of friends make this even more amusing and enjoyable.

Definitely my 5/5

Loved the story! Hooks you right from the beginning with such a shock and then tugs your heart throughout the rest. Makes me want to reconnect with someone on a trip! Such a great read!

As one door closes another one opens….

Being jilted at the altar doesn’t necessarily have to spell disaster but I guess it all depends on the way you deal with the aftermath of your supposedly happiest day of your life turning into your saddest and most humiliating. Bride to be Annie faces just this situation when fiancé Alexander decides to call off the wedding, via the party planner! As anger, embarrassment, hurt and disbelief gradually subside and Annie eases herself back into ordinary life with the love and support of her friends the Core Four, her adorable teenage sister Freddie and canine companion Carol, will she view the worst day of her life as a lucky escape? Making the decision to transform herself into a physically and mentally fitter person, she bumps into an old friend, Patrick, whose own attitude to life, living in the moment and acting spontaneously is instantly appealing. And what better way to put this new outlook into practice than to invite this virtual stranger on your honeymoon; after all why give up a trip of a lifetime to the other side of the world just because your would be husband said “I don’t” instead of “I do”?!

I wasn’t sure whether I was going to warm to this storyline or even Annie herself but once this jilted bride gathers herself together I knew we were going to get along just fine, especially once the rest of the cast are introduced and I felt surrounded by ordinary, warm, kind,funny and loving human beings. The narrative jogs along at a steady pace until the actions moves to Australia and it’s then that temperatures really rocket!

Although the potential for one hot sizzling romance is blatantly on the cards will Annie succumb to Patrick’s obvious charms or will she friend zone him? I have to say I was completely smitten with Patrick Hummingbird; for me it was love at first sight! He’s kind, he’s caring and he knows exactly the right thing to say and when. In many ways Patrick is Annie’s gift from the gods. He’s her personal life coach, good friend and he’s obviously fit and handsome so I think someone should clone him now! It’s the presence of this character that sets the narrative on fire; I could literally see the steam rising from the pages thanks to the intensity of Annie and Patrick’s connection. Guaranteed to put you in the mood for holiday adventures of your own I truly didn’t want this part of the storyline to end! My 5⭐️are based purely on this Australian non honeymoon and the serendipitous appearance of Annie’s childhood friend, my favourite highlights of this altogether super summery read. However all good things, especially holidays have to come to an end so the question remains what does the future hold for the invigorated,more optimistic and assertive Annie and where does Patrick fit in?

Let’s be honest here. From very early on you have a clear vision how this storyline will inevitably wrap up but as far as I’m concerned that bothers me not one iota. If written well with characters whose presence light up the room then this type of novel is my favourite and Laura Jane Williams succeeds on both counts. Besides Patrick, Annie’s sister Freddie is a definite contender for best supporting actress! What a poppet! With such a wise head on young shoulders her voice really made me giggle. I also quite like the fact the Core Four remain on the periphery, encouraging and supporting Annie when the need arises especially since her mum is sadly lacking in that department. Maybe certain issues that some of these characters face are resolved at an unrealistic speed but I can forgive this minor discrepancy as this is escapist fiction after all! If I were to describe this book along the lines of a sandwich I’d say the outer layers (pre and post the honeymoon) are great but it’s the filling (Australia) that is the tastiest, most pleasurable part.

I’ve now read all three of Laura Jane Williams’ novels and loved all of them but I think The Lucky Escape is her best to date. There’s such an abundance of joy, laughter, love and romance in her writing that overwhelms any sadness or difficulties these characters may experience so you’re left feeling cleansed (temporarily) of any unhappiness or worries of your own. If the author’s main aim is to make you smile then in my opinion it’s definitely mission accomplished!! Read this. Smile. And be happy!

My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.

My thoughts

 



Narrative and Plot



 

 




When I signed up for an e-arc of The Lucky Escape, I was expecting a fun rom-com escapist novel. The book did surprise me initially as it took enough time to get to the escapist part. But it was worth the wait. I enjoyed the whole extravagant trip and with good company too.







The narrative focuses entirely on the main character, Annie who kind of finds her voice in the book. The concept is something I have been familiar with the Kangana Ranaut starring movie Queen. Though it didn't live up to that, this had a sweet arc of its own.




The plot however, felt a bit wavering in the third half and had me puzzled at what direction it was going. It gave a wholesome ending but it could have either stopped while on a high or took a bolder risk.






















Characters and Conflicts

 


The two main characters Annie and Patrick were great to read. The romance was set up nicely. The bizarre idea of going on a honeymoon with a stranger was well justified. The entire trip was fun to read with surprising revelations about the characters.







However, in the third act the characters start to contradict themselves. Patrick himself felt diminished into a love interest towards the end. Annie seemed to backtrack after taking her leap without any inhibitions.







The story took a surprising turn making it feel like it had overstayed its welcome . All that conflict managed to do was backtrack the character arc a little bit and then push it forward full circle.




That's not to say that it was an unpleasant ending. The book was heartwarming and gleeful. It deals with various aspects of self growth and coping mechanisms. Not to mention, the ensemble cast with three dimensional supporting characters. As in life, you never come out of any kind of grief without a support system and Annie was lucky in that regard.








Conclusion

 


The Lucky Escape, is a jolly good one-time read for the summer season. If you love travelling from one destination to other all the while enjoying the comfort of your reading nook , this rom com is your pick.

This book was fantastic. Alongside loving the main characters and enjoying the storyline, I found what was talked about both uplifting and encouraging in terms of how you shouldn't settle for things that don't necessarily make you happy. I thought they dealt with how to talk about grief perfectly and I definitely felt more encouraged to be as open and honest as possible. Really beautifully written and so captivating that I didn't want to put it down. I didn't want to miss a moment of the adventure.

The Lucky Escape by Laura Jane Williams is the perfect summer escape novel. Is that in London in Australia, this novel’s beautiful descriptions and I will read it to immerse themself. Annie has been left at the limo day of her wedding. No notes, Nada. After a brief mourning period, she chooses to join a gym and runs into Patrick, an old theater camp friend. Next thing you know, Patrick and Annie are set on Annie’s honeymoon. What could possibly go wrong?
I laughed, cried and shed a few tears while reading William’s latest. Annie was a relatable 30 some thing who is emotions were 100% warranted. Patrick’s drive to do whatever sparked a fire in me to live life however I wish. I want to raise my champagne glass with them to cheers to the Why not. This novel had catchy phrases such as don’t water flowers you don’t want to grow, and Mona Lisa a.k.a. we need to take a break from one another. Although some parts of the book where a little slow, especially before any and Patrick went to Australia, this book had me interested from day one.
All in all, this book is when I recommend this book to anyone needing a past summer escape, the romantic comedy readers and anyone willing to start anew.

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon books for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Let me start by saying I love this cover, especially this year when I am desperate for a holiday somewhere warm and exotic and can't go. Being able to escape with Annie has been wonderful!

One what is suppose to be the happiest day of her life Annie is gilted at the altar by her groom Alexander, absolutely devastated Annie returns home and tried to get over her heartbreak by spending all her energy at the gym. She bumps into an hold friend Patrick from years ago and a lovely friendship ensues. Patrick is easy and outgoing living each day like its his last unlike her ex-fiance Alexander he makes her feel special and important.

Alexander parents talk Annie into going on the all expenses paid honeymoon they had planned for her and Alexander and she decides to go for it and take her friend Patrick with her. The book is everything I love in a chick lit book, a beautiful destination, great friendship and strong family ties. Especially between Annie and her little sister, it was lovely and reminded me on my Sisters doting on me as I am still the baby fo the family. A tense but loving family connection. I really enjoyed this book and I will definitely be reading more from the author in future.

Generally a light and fluffy romance, great to just read to escape from the world around you. This book follows a fairly standard romance arc where you know that the two characters will get to get as soon as they meet, they are happily, some obstacle gets in the way, they live happily ever after.

I didn't like the protag at the start however she soon grew on me.

It was very challenging to read the portions of the text with the protag's mother as she was so deeply unpleasant and critical of the protag so possible content warning there. I also felt somewhat miffed that the mother suddenly became less horrible after being told how horrid she was.

This book is not a romance but more women’s fiction with some funny moments and a wonderfully exotic trip, which is just what a lot of us need right now with travel being hit and miss.

The first part of the book was a slow burn introducing the characters and filling you in on their backgrounds and relationships with other characters. While this is necessary to distinguish a bond with characters, I still didn’t quite gel with Annie or her friends. The only character I really got on board with was her younger sister Freddie.

I hoped once Patrick appeared that would change and it did until he decided to suddenly have a complete personality change. Then I struggled with him too.

The issue I have is this is a perfectly nice book but I almost get the feeling it’s trying a little too hard and I set myself up for a romcom only to feel a little let down when I got something different. Far too many contradictions for me and I understand people can be many things and change their mind but to say one thing then five minutes later say the opposite I personally struggled with that.

As a side note if you are going to box tick and feature people of ethnicity and people from the LGBTQ community. How about being completely inclusive and feature people with disabilities too as they always seem to be forgotten.

ONE CANCELLED WEDDING
ONE UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTER
ONE SPARE TICKET FOR THE HONEYMOON

Annie is jilted on the day of her wedding by her so called Mr Right if 10 years Alexander.

In the weeks after the wedding disaster, Annie unexpectedly bumps into Patrick, an old childhood friend of hers at the gym. It is Patrick who reminds Annie of the girl she used to be and so Annie takes a vow of her own, to say yes to all new opportunities that come her way!

So when her ex future-in-laws ask her to still take the luxury all expenses paid honeymoon trip of a lifetime to Australia, Annie says yes and who should accompany her on this trip down under, but Patrick could a spontaneous trip with Patrick be the way to mend Annie’s heart??

I was so excited to get my hands on this book after absolutely loving @laurajaneauhtor previous novels ‘Our Stop’ and ‘The Love Square’. One of my hotly anticipated releases of 2021, it certainly did not disappoint!!

A perfect book to enjoy this summer in the sunshine with a ice cold drink, Laura Jane actually made me feel as though I had been transported to Australia with Annie and Patrick, which I guess is the best I can hope for this year! 😂

This cute, summer read is not just a story about life after heartbreak, but a voyage of discovery as Annie realises just how much of a lucky escape she actually had!!!

Thank you so much Laura Jane for another sensational book. I can’t wait for number 4!!! 🙌🏻🥰

4.5 stars from me!!

Thank you @netgalley and @avonbooksuk for the copy of this in exchange for an honest review.

This book sadly was not for me. I am pleased to see that I am in the minority and that other readers have enjoyed it, but, I found it rather lacking. I had expected from the synopsis that the main storyline would be about the 'honeymoon' to Australia. It was not. I found the book really slow to start with and when the trip actually took place, it may as well have been anywhere, there were hardly any references to Australia itself. Finally, a large section of the book was then dedicated to what happened after the trip and, again, I felt this dragged.
I am grateful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

If YOU'RE looking for an escape this summer (a literary one is the best I can do this year!) then lose yourself in the pages of The Lucky Escape.

After being jilted by her long-term love, we're whisked off to Australia where Annie goes on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

A positive, fun read with a lead character you really warm to.

It is a good book. I really enjoyed it... I loved , like literally LOVED, Patrick and Freddie. Hated Judy wiig, the Mother, and Alexander and was neutral on the father and Annie. I liked how Annie's character developed... Patrick's way of seeing life through the most in the moment lense 😂, but also learning to carry some responsibility and think a little before just going for things...

What made this book not reach the 5 stars for me is the ending... I felt that the author was overdoing it a little during Annie's and Patrick's post fight period, you know?

It was overall agood book, but not quite 5 stars... Just 4 stars (maybe 4 and a half if I'm being generous, sorry)

**Thanks to the author and publishing house for providing me with a free copy in exchange for a review**

Annie is left at the alter totally unexpectedly. Her fiancé, Alexander, is nowhere to be found. Annie was so sure he was the one and now Alexander is nowhere to be found. Along comes a an
old acquaintance named Patrick who helps Annie realize that she needs to quit living in the past and seize every moment. She invites Patrick to her honeymoon to
Australia. Patrick and Annie both have baggage from their past they are dealing with but realize they have a lot in common. I enjoyed this book. It was light and entertaining. I did feel like the story was drawn out after they returned from Australia but overall a good read. I give this one 3.5 stars. Thanks NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.

This book didn't really work for me. It wasn't terrible, but the pacing was slow at the beginning and I found the characters hard to like. I received a gifted copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.

The Lucky Escape is a feel good romance with some laugh out loud moments.

After Annie is jilted at the alter, she is understandably distraught but will going on the honeymoon of a lifetime to Australia help her heal her broken heart. And is taking another man on that honeymoon really a good idea?

Based on the synopsis, I was expecting a funny, romantic comedy with a HEA and basically that’s what the book gave me. But I did find the build up to the honeymoon too slow and the ending a bit rushed. That just leaves the bit in the middle, the honeymoon, which was brilliant and I could definitely have had more of that. The banter and sensitivity between Annie and Patrick was great and I loved discovering Australia with them. These scenes were my absolute favourite.

Annie was quiet a difficult protagonists to love but she was easy to relate to. She was indecisive and passive which was annoying, but it’s an essential part of the story as we were able to see her grow once she was encouraged and given confidence. Constantly judging herself for not being good enough, she really lacks self belief and therefore she does not prioritise her own wants, needs and feelings which is the part that I think people can relate to in some way. I liked that she became more confident, less strict on herself and that she stood up to people. But it was undermined a little by how quickly she reverted to type.

Annie literally does have a lucky escape. Her fiancé, Alexander, is horrible to her and she deserves so much more. Patrick was a little too perfect but I loved how kind, caring and considerate he was without being overbearing or patronising. Her friends were brilliant, in particular I loved Adzo and her no nonsense attitude!!

If like me this is your third Laura Jane Williams book, I would say it’s better than The Love Square but not as good as Our Stop.

Ok this book was adorable. I LOVE when romances explore deeper themes as well as quality relationships. I also think the idea of a jilted 'bride' goes on her honeymoon with an old acquaintance that she re-meets at a workout class is a very unique concept for a story.

I think that the descriptions were slightly lackluster, but that is definitely just because I want to TRAVEL again so badly. Freddie is also the BEST little sister in a book there ever has been and I'm sad that she's fictional because I need her solid advice in my life.

I also really enjoyed the writing style and will be picking up this authors other works.