A wedding planner left at the altar? Yeah, the irony isn’t lost on Carolina Santos, either. But despite that embarrassing blip from her past, Lina’s offered an opportunity that could change her life. There’s just one hitch… she has to collaborate with the best (make that worst) man from her own failed nuptials.
Marketing expert Max Hartley is determined to make his mark with a coveted hotel client looking to expand its brand. Then he learns he’ll be working with his brother’s whip-smart, stunning–absolutely off-limits–ex-fianc e. And she loathes him.
If they can nail their presentation without killing each other, they’ll both come out ahead. Except Max has been public enemy number one ever since he encouraged his brother to jilt the bride, and Lina’s ready to dish out a little payback of her own.
Soon Lina and Max discover animosity may not be the only emotion creating sparks between them. Still, this star-crossed couple can never be more than temporary playmates because Lina isn’t interested in falling in love and Max refuses to play runner-up to his brother ever again…
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In anticipation of The Wedding Crasher releasing on April 5th, I decided it was time for a re-read! When I first heard about this book, back in 2020, I wasn’t sure it was going to be my cup of tea. Relationships with relatives of exes can be complicated and I generally try to steer clear of books with them in. After hearing quite a few mutuals gush about how fantastic this book was I decided to take the chance…and I was not disappointed.
A sad truth of being a woman, especially a woman of color, is that every time we express, what society deems, “strong” emotion we’re judged. Regardless of what situation caused the reaction, society expects us to take it “with grace” and if we do react we’re seen as “over-emotional” and “out of control” which is asinine. It makes perfect sense that Lina has decided to take charge by trying to control her emotions. Is it healthy? Of course not but it’s helped Lina…that is until she’s forced to work with Max, her ex almost brother-in-law.
The banter between these two is adorable and the moments when they each notice the attractiveness of the other and quickly think “that’s not a thought I should have, therefore I shall banish it” has me laughing so hard. The chemistry and compatibility, between these two, is undeniable to everyone except Max and Lina themselves.
I love that Lina’s family wants to protect her but they also see a connection, before Max and Lina do, and so though guarded they’re friendly and warm towards Max. They love Lina and only want wants best for her and will support her in whatever she chooses to do. Her family never once mentions anything negative or holds anything over her head, they just love her. Trying to imagine love and support like that is beautiful.
Overall I highly recommend this book and hope you’ll read, and love, it just as much as I do. I am so excited to get my hands on The Wedding Crasher to see more of Dean [Max’s best friend] and finally meet Lina’s cousin Solange!
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