Ooh I absolutely adored this read! The characters are sheer perfection and the entire plot was heartfelt, humorous, emotional and incredibly gripping. Yes the plot is obvious but that does not matter when it is executed well and involves characters whom you really take to heart. This is a follow-on book which I did not realise until I finished reading, however this does not matter at all as Allison does such a good job of filling in backstories and I very quickly felt like I had known the characters for a long time.
'The Wedding Engagement' is a delight to read but Allison includes some hard hitting subjects which add to the seriousness of the plot. They were executed very well and added another dimension to the plot.
I simply loved everything about this and the characters are wonderful. I cannot wait for Allison's next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ for an advance copy.

I absolutely love Zoe Allison so to have an opportunity to check out a new book of hers is truly and honor and treat! Beyond excited to share my thoughts and especially with a fun wedding theme I am so ready to take this one with me to the beach!

Title: The Wedding Engagement by Zoe Allison

Release date: October, 7th, 2024

3.5 Stars

"The Wedding Engagement" by Zoe Allison is a charming and delightful romance that captures the essence of unrequited love, the complexities of family dynamics, and the joy of discovering love where you least expect it.

Set in the picturesque backdrop of Scotland, this novel follows Liv Holland, a Scottish schoolteacher, and Arran Adebayo, her brother's best friend, as they navigate the treacherous waters of planning a wedding that isn't their own, all while grappling with their growing feelings for each other.

Liv has harboured a secret crush on Arran for years, a feeling she believes is not reciprocated, especially after a disastrous blind date. Arran, a single father who was left at the altar by his ex, struggles with his budding feelings for Liv, torn between his past and the potential for a new love.

As they work together to plan Liv's brother's wedding to her best friend, their connection deepens, leading to moments of laughter, heartache, and the realisation that their feelings for each other may be more than just friendship.

However, their romantic pasts and the fear of jeopardising their relationship with Liv's brother loom over them, making their path to happiness fraught with challenges.

Allison's novel is a slow-burn romance that emphasises the importance of friendship, family, and the courage to take a leap of faith for love. The Scottish setting adds a layer of charm and authenticity to the story, while the humorous and heartfelt moments keep readers engaged and rooting for Liv and Arran's happy ending.

Be warned, this is a very slow burn and it does take a while to develop but It's a book that will make you laugh, sigh, and believe in the power of love to overcome obstacles.

Thank you to The Publisher HQ | HQ Digital ,The Author Zoe Allison & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

The Wedding Engagement by Zoe Allison
Rating: 3/5
Release Date: 7 October 2024

Liv Holland has been secretly in love with Arran Adebayo, her brother’s best friend, for years. As they help plan Liv's brother's wedding, their mutual attraction becomes undeniable. Despite their complicated romantic pasts, they must decide if pursuing love is worth the risk of losing their friendship. With the wedding approaching, Liv and Arran must determine if they can find their own happily ever after.

The characters in this book are constantly longing to kiss each other, which becomes repetitive and simplistic. While the inclusion of a character with a child adds an interesting dimension, the story feels hackneyed and unpolished. Despite having appealing elements like a Scottish setting, a friends-to-lovers plot, and artistic characters, the book feels forced and awkward. The characters' repeated excuses for not getting together are frustrating and not well-executed as plot devices.

Overall, “The Wedding Engagement” was a struggle for me.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, HQ Digital, and the author, Zoe Allison, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.