Review: Enjoyable rom com with unexpected depth
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 01 28, 2014
Reading the book blurb, Always a Bridesmaid promises some predictable tropes: the ugly duckling surrounded by swans and the good old situation comedy drama where Dani and Zach pretend to be an item to fend off his over zealous ex-fiancé. Cue chaos and laughter. If you're not a chick-lit or romantic comedy fan exit left. For the rest of us proud rom com lovers, I think you'll agree the difference between good and bad rom com isn't necessarily the plot, but the way it's executed.Always a Bridesmaid executes strongly, delivering romance believably with humour that flows naturally. Dani and Zach are both likeable main characters and their attraction is enjoyable to read.This is the second novel I've read by Jana Richards and because of that I wasn't surprised when the book delivers characters (and a story) beyond the standard rom com or chick-lit genres. Richards has a knack of developing characters with real depth, something which the genre often fails to do. We watch as Dani and Zach chart trust issues as a result of a friend's predicament. We also journey with Dani as she struggles with her sense of identity surrounding her body issues. Richards depth in her characters also extends to the supporting cast, which is another reason her novels engage more than the blurb would suggest.Had I not have read another contemporary romance by Jana Richards, the cover design on this one would have made me pass it by. Sadly, I don't think the cover does this writer the justice she deserves, or demonstrates the professionalism reflected in her writing. Richards has proven herself as a competent and engaging contemporary romance writer to me twice over, which is why it's always worth remembering that old saying, 'don't judge a book by its cover.' If you can see past that, this is an enjoyable romantic read for lovers of the chick-lit/rom com genres.*I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review.