It’s a truth universally acknowledged that a single woman in possession of a good job, four bossy sisters and a needy cat must also have want of her one true love. Or is it?
Another delightful novel from the author of The Little Bookshop of Lonely Hearts. Perfect for fans of Lucy Diamond and Jenny Colgan
Verity Love – Jane Austen fangirl and an introvert in a world of extroverts – is perfectly … introvert in a world of extroverts – is perfectly happy on her own (thank you very much), and her fictional boyfriend Peter is very useful for getting her out of unwanted social events. But when a case of mistaken identity forces her to introduce a perfect stranger as her boyfriend, Verity’s life suddenly becomes much more complicated.
Johnny could also use a fictional girlfriend. Against Verity’s better judgement, he persuades her to partner up for a summer season of weddings, big number birthdays and garden parties, with just one promise – not to fall in love with each other…
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This was a delightful read, though at first I worried it might be a bit manic. Once I got into the rhythm of the book, and the fun style of writing, I was on my way. Verity is a truly quirky character, but one I could relate to on some levels as an introvert myself. Her fake oceanographer romance was meant to be a way to barricade herself from the world of dating. It backfires when, in a moment of desperation, she must throw herself at an unsuspecting man in an Italian restaurant to keep her fib alive for her nosy friends. Turns out Johnny had a need for a fake relationship as well, and the two misfits make a pact to spend the summer helping each other get through a long list of social gatherings. I liked how the relationship built slowly and believably, and kept me amused throughout the book. It was hard to understand Johnny’s attachment to Marissa (I hiss the name as she is a manipulative, awful person). For being such a wonderful and smart man, I repeatedly scratched my head over his clinging to such an unappealing old flame. The book is filled with family members – some crazy, some wonderful like Our Vicar and Our Vicar’s Wife, offbeat co-workers, and upper class types who may or may not be likable. I smiled a great deal while reading this book and read it quickly, which is a huge sign that I liked it.
I do ask the world a question though. Have we done enough spinoff/influenced books from Jane Austin’s Pride and Prejudice yet? Maybe not. This from a person who has even watched Pride, Prejudice and Zombies. 😉
I give this book 4 1/2 hearts
I love all the Annie Darling books…so easy to picture yourself a part of the story.
One of my very favorite reads! Couldn’t put it down but didn’t want it to end! Felt like I was part of the story
I’ve never felt more seen as an introvert before. Most of the time they are seen as being shy and hating people in general. But Verity – she is an introvert in the same way I am. She can still be social, but it is so exhausting after a while. This author nailed it, down to the headaches. Johnny is a bit of an idiot for most of this book, but I loved him anyway. Especially how he seemed to be able to read her so well when she was getting overwhelmed. The Pride and Prejudice references are not over the top, and blended well with the story. A warm and cozy read.
Easy reading
Loved it. I couldn’t stop reading it.
This is a sweet romance book. Personally it was a bit long for me, I think it dragged in some spots. Again that’s my personal thought, it has nothing to do with the writing, that was great. It was a great story and had a lot of characters to get into. I felt very connected to Verity as I feel like sometimes I people too much and just need time alone. It was nice to read about someone else feeling like that, it made me connect with her on a different level. It took me awhile to like Johnny, he just seemed a bit immature until he had his ah=ha moment. Still it was a good book and I enjoyed it.