Introduction
What happens when you’re stuck as a bridesmaid in a small town, surrounded by quirky characters, and you find yourself falling for the one person you absolutely shouldn’t? Lauren Landish’s The Wrong Bridesmaid kicks off her Cold Springs series with a delightful blend of small-town charm, sizzling chemistry, and laugh-out-loud moments. Set in the picturesque town of Cold Springs, this romantic comedy offers a fresh take on the wedding romance trope, infusing it with unexpected twists and engaging characters. With an independent heroine, a hero trying to find his own path, and plenty of family drama, this is a must-read for fans of heartfelt romance laced with humor.
Book Summary
The Wrong Bridesmaid centers around Hazel, a feisty, independent woman who reluctantly finds herself thrust into the role of bridesmaid for a family wedding. The twist? Her family and the groom’s influential family have been feuding for decades, and Hazel soon finds herself face-to-face with Wyatt—a member of that very family. Wyatt is charming, handsome, and everything Hazel doesn’t want, especially given their families’ history. But as the wedding approaches, a series of romantic mishaps and sweet, unexpected moments bring them closer together.
Wyatt, who has grown up in the shadow of his family's reputation, is determined to carve out his own path. His attraction to Hazel is immediate, but the long-standing family feud complicates everything. As Hazel and Wyatt navigate their growing attraction, they must deal with family drama, small-town gossip, and their own insecurities. What starts as an inconvenient attraction quickly becomes something deeper, forcing them to decide if love is worth the risk.
Author's Style and Craft
Lauren Landish has a knack for creating relatable and multi-dimensional characters that leap off the page. Hazel is a particularly well-crafted protagonist, described by readers as a “ballsy, pool-hustling” woman with a strong personality. Her sass, confidence, and no-nonsense attitude make her an instantly likable character that readers can root for. Wyatt, on the other hand, is more than just a handsome face from the wrong family. His journey of finding his own path and standing up for what’s right adds depth to his character, creating a love interest that readers can invest in emotionally.
Landish's writing style is engaging and accessible, with a strong balance of humor, romantic tension, and deeper emotional moments. The pacing of the story is brisk, and the narrative is peppered with laugh-out-loud scenes that keep the tone lighthearted. The dialogue between Hazel and Wyatt crackles with wit, showcasing their chemistry and creating a slow-burn romance that is both believable and compelling. Landish’s ability to craft intimate, emotional moments alongside moments of humor makes this book a page-turner.
Themes and Deeper Meaning
The Wrong Bridesmaid delves into themes of family loyalty, self-discovery, and the courage to stand up against long-standing divisions. Hazel’s struggle to balance her loyalty to her family with her feelings for Wyatt is a central conflict that adds emotional depth to the story. The novel also explores the idea of looking beyond appearances and first impressions—a message that resonates not only in the context of romance but also in how we view others in our communities.
The long-standing feud between the two families symbolizes the grudges and misconceptions that often prevent people from moving forward. Wyatt’s determination to break away from his family’s expectations and Hazel’s willingness to take a risk on love highlight the importance of forging one’s own path, despite societal or familial pressures. The small-town setting reinforces the theme of community, with both its warmth and its challenges.
Strengths
One of the biggest strengths of The Wrong Bridesmaid is its characters. Hazel is a dynamic heroine—confident, strong, and unapologetically herself. Wyatt, meanwhile, is charming yet introspective, with a desire to find his own identity outside of his family’s influence. The chemistry between Hazel and Wyatt is palpable from their first encounter, and Landish expertly builds romantic tension through their witty banter and moments of vulnerability.
The supporting cast is equally well-developed, adding color and complexity to the story. From the various members of the wedding party to the quirky town residents, each character feels distinct and adds value to the narrative. A standout among the supporting characters is Lester, Hazel’s foul-mouthed bird, who adds an extra layer of humor to the story. The small-town setting of Cold Springs is also vividly brought to life, becoming almost a character in its own right, with local landmarks, quirky traditions, and a tight-knit community that envelops the reader in warmth.
Areas for Improvement
While The Wrong Bridesmaid is largely successful, some readers may find that the romantic development between Hazel and Wyatt is initially slow. The first half of the book focuses heavily on building tension, and while this results in a satisfying payoff, it may test the patience of readers looking for a faster-paced romance.
Additionally, the resolution of the family feud, which has been ongoing for thirty years, feels somewhat rushed. Given the significance of the feud, more time could have been spent exploring its resolution and the impact it had on both families.
Comparative Analysis
The Wrong Bridesmaid fits well within the small-town romance genre, reminiscent of works by authors like Jill Shalvis or Kristan Higgins, who also excel at creating charming settings and relatable characters. Compared to other wedding-themed romances, Landish’s novel stands out for its humor and the complexity of its protagonists. The family feud adds a layer of tension and drama that sets it apart from more straightforward romantic comedies. Fans of The Hating Game by Sally Thorne or It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey will likely appreciate the witty banter and the push-and-pull dynamic between Hazel and Wyatt.
Target Audience
The Wrong Bridesmaid will appeal to fans of romantic comedies, especially those who enjoy small-town settings, wedding mishaps, and strong, independent heroines. Readers who love a slow-burn romance with plenty of humor and a bit of family drama will find much to enjoy in this book. The story’s themes of family loyalty and breaking free from expectations also make it a good pick for readers looking for more than just a love story. Content warnings include mild language and steamy romantic scenes, but they are handled with a balance of humor and emotion.
Personal Impact
Reading The Wrong Bridesmaid felt like a warm embrace—a comforting mix of laughter, romance, and heartfelt moments. Hazel’s strength and wit were inspiring, and Wyatt’s determination to forge his own path made him a compelling partner for her. The combination of humor, heart, and the warmth of a small-town community made this an enjoyable and memorable read.
Conclusion
Lauren Landish’s The Wrong Bridesmaid is a delightful romantic comedy that combines humor, heart, and small-town charm. With well-developed characters, witty banter, and a touching exploration of family dynamics, it’s a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Landish’s work or new to her storytelling, this book is sure to leave you smiling and eagerly awaiting your next visit to Cold Springs.
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Additional Reading and Resources
More Book Reviews from That Love Podcast If you enjoyed this review, check out our takes on other fantastic reads:
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Romance Community Resources For more romance novel reviews, discussions, and recommendations, check out these fantastic resources:
Dear Author - A trusted source for honest and well-thought-out reviews, often featuring witty commentary.
All About Romance - One of the oldest romance review sites, offering extensive reviews, author interviews, and discussions covering various romance genres.
Smart Bitches, Trashy Books - Known for its humorous and insightful reviews, this site also features a podcast and community discussions about romance novels.
Heroes and Heartbreakers - Reviews and recommendations highlighting both popular and lesser-known romance novels.
Romance.io - A comprehensive database of romance novels, offering user-generated reviews and recommendations across various subgenres.
We hope these additional resources enhance your romance reading experience and help you discover your next favorite book!
FAQ
Who is the author of The Wrong Bridesmaid? Lauren Landish is the author, known for her contemporary romances with humor and heart.
What is the genre of The Wrong Bridesmaid? The book is a romantic comedy set in a small-town environment.
Is The Wrong Bridesmaid part of a series? Yes, it is the first book in the Cold Springs series by Lauren Landish.
What themes are explored in the book? Themes include family loyalty, self-discovery, and the courage to follow one’s heart.
How long is the book? The book is a full-length romance novel, perfect for a weekend read.
Are there explicit scenes in the book? Yes, there are some steamy romantic scenes, but they are balanced with humor and emotional connection.
Who would enjoy this book? Fans of romantic comedies, small-town romances, and strong, independent heroines will enjoy this book.
How does the family feud impact the story? The family feud adds tension and conflict, complicating Hazel and Wyatt’s budding romance.
Is there a strong romantic element in the book? Yes, the romance between Hazel and Wyatt is central to the story, with plenty of humor and heartfelt moments.
Where can I find more works by Lauren Landish? You can find more of her books on platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, and her official website.
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