Quick Reviews

Once Persuaded, Twice Shy by Melodie Edwards (2024) 

A modern retelling of Jane Austen's Persuasion, Once Persuaded, Twice Shy is the story of Anne, living a life she believes is just fine, until her ex-boyfriend comes to town, and she starts wondering if her life could have been (or still could be) different.  I have to admit, I've never read the original story, so I have nothing to compare it to, but I enjoyed the author's first novel and I wanted to give this one a try.  Unfortunately, this one didn't have the same spark as the first for me.  The "romance" fell really flat here.  Although we get some idea of what Anne and Ben were like the first time around, in the present day there is just not enough of them spending page time together to make me feel like they belonged together.  There is too much telling (mostly through Anne's thoughts) and not enough actual action to make it believable; a very quick resolution to the romance doesn't help the case.  A good portion of the story is spent on Anne trying to reconcile her life's choices, and she actually makes a lot of growth over the course of the book.  I enjoyed this part, especially when Anne stops enabling her selfish family members and forces them all to become more independent.  Overall, a bland romance that would be better marketed as a personal growth story.  3 stars

On the Way to the Wedding by Julia Quinn (2006)

Gregory Bridgerton thinks he has found "the one," but he needs the help of her best friend Lucy to win her over.  In the process, Lucy, despite being practically engaged, finds herself falling for Gregory, and he realizes that Lucy is truly the one for him.  But, Lucy's uncle has promised her to another, and Lucy can't get out of it - unless Gregory can help.  I have thoroughly enjoyed the Bridgerton series, and this installment was a fantastic finale.  Watching Gregory and Lucy work together, getting to know each other and realizing that they are truly in love was such a treat.  I loved how many other Bridgertons made an appearance in this one, particularly matriarch Violet, who has some heartfelt moments with Gregory.  The story takes a suspenseful turn near the end, as Lucy's uncle is desperate for her to marry a particular man (who really turns out to be quite a gem, but clearly not right for Lucy), and the characters all have to band together to help Gregory and Lucy find the happy ending they deserve.  4 stars

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