This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.
Reviewed by Jenny Banks
Anna Carter has one wish on her Christmas list: to be married by Christmas. Since her unhappy childhood, there’s nothing Anna wants more than her dream wedding to Tom Collins, the one she’s had planned since she was a little girl. But her perfect husband-to-be is about to drop a bombshell two weeks before Anna is set to say, ‘I do’. Discovering your fiancé is already married, to a Las Vegas showgirl no less, could derail any wedding plans. But Anna is going to pull out all the stops to ensure she gets her big day.
Following this unwelcome surprise, an upset Anna goes in search of Tom’s wife in New York, her last known location, while a distraught Tom stays in England with Anna’s best friend Liv, who has a secret of her own she’s trying to hide. Unexpectedly joined by old flame Miles on the flight to New York, Anna is determined to track down Charisma Jones, the current Mrs Collins. But will there still be wedding bells on Christmas Eve?
For a brief moment at the start of the book, I was unsure about super – organised Anna, who ran the risk of becoming annoying. But almost as soon as this gripe surfaced, it disappeared, and Anna became a very likeable, kind character you can relate to; we all have an inner Anna. After being abandoned by her mother as a child, her wedding day is the culmination of years of organisation to ensure that everything will, for once, go right for her. Even Tom, who is close to ruining his fiancée’s happiness, is difficult to dislike. Liv is very sweet, wanting only the best for Anna while knowing that this could lead to her own heartbreak. Miles is funny, considerate and easy going, perhaps just what in-control Anna needs. Although they seem like complete opposites, I couldn’t imagine Anna taking on New York without him.
Scarlett Bailey has created a bundle of fun in Married by Christmas, perfect for cosy nights in by the fire, away from the wintry weather. It was difficult to put the book down, and I would often read it into the early hours. It is a very amusing story and one that will keep you avidly turning the pages until the brilliantly written ending.
Married by Christmas is an incredibly enjoyable book that kept me riveted throughout. It’s a warm, romantic, and funny read, perfect for getting into the festive spirit.
9/10