THE WEDDING PEOPLE
“She is so good at predicting what will happen in books, so bad at predicting what will happen in life. That is why she has always preferred books - because to be alive is much harder.”
— Alison Espach, "The Wedding People"
Please note that this is a review for an ARC that I received from Henry Holt & Company via NetGalley. The books publishing date is 30 July 2024.
"The Wedding People" by Alison Espach is a delightful contemporary fiction tale that, for me, mirrors the uplifting spirit of beloved movies like The Holiday and P.S. I Love You. Espach effortlessly blends lighthearted humor, romance, and fun banter with underlying themes that explores life's dificulties. The story unfolds in the picturesque setting of Newport, Rhode Island, where Phoebe Stone finds herself mistakenly embraced as an unexpected wedding guest at the grand Cornwall Inn. Utterly alone, Phoebe embarks on an unexpected journey of self-discovery.
Alison Espach's knack for phenomenal character development shines through in this messy family drama. The flawed yet relatable Phoebe and a cast of intriguing characters add depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it a rare gem in the realm of lighthearted novels. The pacing of the story is impeccable, maintaining a delightful flow that propels readers forward with each page turn. An early reveal in the novel had turning the pages to see what happened next.
Espach's writing style is a standout feature, characterized by lovely and accessible prose. The dialogue, in particular, contributes to the book's overall charm. The artistry of the story is most fantastic. “The Wedding People” expertly navigates the intricate world of weddings which is what attracted me to this novel in the first place as I work in the wedding industry. The narrative not only entertains with its humor and romance but also delivers a meaningful exploration of unexpected encounters and the potential for new beginnings. It's a captivating story that I think will be on the top of many peoples favorite romance novels of 2024.
Emotionally resonant, "The Wedding People" elicits a full spectrum of feelings. Empathy for characters grappling with trauma and heartbreak coexists with a sense of hopefulness. The beautifully written conclusion, though not overtly sad, leaves a lasting impact and had me in literal tears, a testament to Espach's ability to craft a narrative that emotionally connects with readers.
SPOILER ALERT: This novel explores sensitive topics like suicide, infertility, cancer, death of a spouse, and infidelity.
Altogether, "The Wedding People" is an absolute gem that offers a vibrant and emotionally resonant experience, making it a must-read for those seeking a captivating contemporary fiction read. In recommendations, "The Wedding People" finds its place within women's fiction, appealing to those who already appreciate the genre of romantic comedies and dramas. As for constructive criticism, none applies; the book delivers precisely what it sets out to achieve, earning it a well-deserved 5-star rating.
Rating: 5 Stars
