The Wedding Date

Not sure where to begin with this book. This is the first romance novel I have ever finished. As a horror and nonfiction reader, I really ventured out of my comfort zone with The Wedding Date. And I am SO GLAD I DID!! I loved it! Both main characters are intelligent with prestigious careers, and interesting in their own right, very well developed. And their love story is far from perfect, with ups and downs all along the way. I completely identified with Alexa's insecurities with her body image and "why would he choose me out of all the girls in the world?" attitude. I chose 4 stars instead of 5 because of the predictability in some places, but they did not detract from the overall novel. A definite must-read! I devoured this book!

This cute romance is an adorable, fly by the seat of your pants journey that perfectly balances a light-hearted, laughter-filled relationship with the demands of two high-powered professionals in intense job fields (politics and medicine). The dynamics of an inter-racial relationship were well-played without being heavy-handed, both Alexa and Drew come across very genuinely. I enjoyed the realistic portrayal of how different genders handle relationship discussions - we see Alexa seek out a few close friends about the budding romance, while Drew only talks to his one guy friend, and then only after he's had a few beers. Alexa's relationship with her sister is featured more than I was expecting, and I found the subplot about Alexa's plans for a teen arts rehabilitation program as well thought-out as the main romance storyline. A fun, light, fast read.

Drew Nichols needed a date. The last thing he wanted was to be at his ex-girlfriend’s wedding, alone, looking like a pathetic loser. He probably deserved it, though. Drew had been a complete jerk. But, luck was on his side. The day before the wedding, Alexa showed up in his life. She was an intelligent, sexy woman, who fell for Drew’s sad story and agreed to be his fake girlfriend for the event. Alexa was anxious, about attending the wedding date, but excited too. Drew Nichols was not only a handsome physician; he was a funny one. Drew didn’t do relationships, however, so Alexa never expected to meet up with him, after her acting scheme, was over. But, that’s exactly what happened. One date turned into two, and then into something much more. Alexa tried not to over think things. Drew was not a commitment kind of guy. Alexa knew this, and yet, she couldn’t stop her heart from falling for him. As with all relationships, however, nothing is set in stone; feelings change, black and white opinions, become gray, and easy, becomes hard. Although The Wedding Date was an enjoyable, romantic and fun story, it lacked depth. If you are looking for a light romance with humor, though, this just might be the book for you. Thank you, Berkley Publishing and BookishFirst, for my advanced review copy.