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The Wedding Diary
Where's a Fairy Godmother when you need one?
If you won a fairy-tale wedding in a luxury hotel, you d be delighted right? But what if you didn't have anyone to marry? Cat Aston did have a fiancé, but now it looks like her Prince Charming has done a runner.
Adam Lawley was left devastated when his girlfriend turned down his heartfelt proposal. He's made a vow never to fall in love again.
So when Cat and Adam meet, they shouldn't even consider falling in love. After all, they're both broken hearted. But for some reason they can't stop thinking about each other. Is this their second chance for happiness, or are some things just too good to be true?
Margaret's successful historical trilogy has been praised by many; the first "The Silver Locket" won the 2010 Single Titles Reviewers' Choice Award. This is the first contemporary and links to her trilogy.
If you won a fairy-tale wedding in a luxury hotel, you d be delighted right? But what if you didn't have anyone to marry? Cat Aston did have a fiancé, but now it looks like her Prince Charming has done a runner.
Adam Lawley was left devastated when his girlfriend turned down his heartfelt proposal. He's made a vow never to fall in love again.
So when Cat and Adam meet, they shouldn't even consider falling in love. After all, they're both broken hearted. But for some reason they can't stop thinking about each other. Is this their second chance for happiness, or are some things just too good to be true?
Margaret's successful historical trilogy has been praised by many; the first "The Silver Locket" won the 2010 Single Titles Reviewers' Choice Award. This is the first contemporary and links to her trilogy.
304 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2013
About the author
Margaret James
126 books27 followersA pseudonym used by Pamela Bennetts.
Margaret James has been a member of the RNA for 22 years. She has written thirteen published novels, many short stories, and she also teaches creative writing for the London School of Journalism. Margaret's first novel was A Touch of Earth, a family saga set in Herefordshire where she was born and grew up, and her most recent is The Penny Bangle, set in Dorset and published by Robert Hale. But her personal favourite among her novels is Elegy for a Queen, published by Solidus, a small independent which has a varied and fascinating list. Margaret now lives in Devon, which she loves.
Margaret James has been a member of the RNA for 22 years. She has written thirteen published novels, many short stories, and she also teaches creative writing for the London School of Journalism. Margaret's first novel was A Touch of Earth, a family saga set in Herefordshire where she was born and grew up, and her most recent is The Penny Bangle, set in Dorset and published by Robert Hale. But her personal favourite among her novels is Elegy for a Queen, published by Solidus, a small independent which has a varied and fascinating list. Margaret now lives in Devon, which she loves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 21, 2018
The Wedding Diary it is such a lovely charming read. Full of great humour. I enjoyed reading The Wedding Diary so much so that I would love to read more books by Margaret James and more books from choc-lit.
The Wedding Diary is about Cat & Jack. Jack leaves Cat to go and find himself. Cat does not hear from Jack. Cat receives a call from poshly spoken fanny Gregory from supadoop promotions saying Cat has won a wedding package by filling in the form in the Bridal Magazine.
But Jack has disappeared so who can Cat marry?. This definately is a must buy must read novel.
The Wedding Diary is about Cat & Jack. Jack leaves Cat to go and find himself. Cat does not hear from Jack. Cat receives a call from poshly spoken fanny Gregory from supadoop promotions saying Cat has won a wedding package by filling in the form in the Bridal Magazine.
But Jack has disappeared so who can Cat marry?. This definately is a must buy must read novel.
April 22, 2013
Cat works for a reclaimed builder's yard. Nothing glamorous and romantic about that but it is a job.
Cat, like every bride to be, has dreams on a grand scale and so when the phone call comes through to say she has won an all expenses paid wedding she is thrilled. Well, she would be if she hadn't just split with the groom, Jack.
She gets herself into a bit of a muddle when she doesn't come clean to Fanny at Supadoop Productions who are hosting the prize. It wouldn't hurt to just go and have a look at what she could have won, and anyway, Jack may come back.
Adam, also newly single, due to his girlfriend turning down his marriage proposal, meets Cat at work when he goes to the yard to purchase original building supplies for his house renovation work. He takes a shine to Cat but after finding out she is the winner for the prize wedding at a project he is working on, he decides she is off limits.
Cat and Adam just cannot stop thinking about each other even though they both try to convince themselves that they cannot get involved.
I am a fan of Margaret James' well written historical romances and was very interested to see how her writing would come across in a contemporary romance. I can confidently say that Margaret James has made the grade with a contemporary romance that is right up to date. Superb!
It was such a feel good read.
I still want to read more historical fiction from this author but would love to see another contemporary, too.
Thank you to Choc Lit for a review copy. This did not influence my review in any way.
Cat, like every bride to be, has dreams on a grand scale and so when the phone call comes through to say she has won an all expenses paid wedding she is thrilled. Well, she would be if she hadn't just split with the groom, Jack.
She gets herself into a bit of a muddle when she doesn't come clean to Fanny at Supadoop Productions who are hosting the prize. It wouldn't hurt to just go and have a look at what she could have won, and anyway, Jack may come back.
Adam, also newly single, due to his girlfriend turning down his marriage proposal, meets Cat at work when he goes to the yard to purchase original building supplies for his house renovation work. He takes a shine to Cat but after finding out she is the winner for the prize wedding at a project he is working on, he decides she is off limits.
Cat and Adam just cannot stop thinking about each other even though they both try to convince themselves that they cannot get involved.
I am a fan of Margaret James' well written historical romances and was very interested to see how her writing would come across in a contemporary romance. I can confidently say that Margaret James has made the grade with a contemporary romance that is right up to date. Superb!
It was such a feel good read.
I still want to read more historical fiction from this author but would love to see another contemporary, too.
Thank you to Choc Lit for a review copy. This did not influence my review in any way.
March 14, 2018
This was such a lovely read!! Cat is a woman with a dream! To have the perfect wedding! So when she wins a competition to have a fairy-tale wedding all expenses paid, the only problem is the lack of a fiancee!! What's a girl to do?!
She soon meets Adam who is nursing his own broken heart, and the two of them seem to click almost immediately on a professional level, but maybe they can both help each other in their quests for happiness and true love! Can he be her knight in shining armour?!
Such a fun read, full of some lovely characters and some very over the top ones too! I loved how their work lives helped them forget their rather messy love lives, and I loved the one liners and the different situations they found themselves in! It all added to the enjoyment as the story flowed at a fabulous pace and I can't wait to read more from this author.
Ooh and special praise for the glittery cover too! It's fabulous!!
She soon meets Adam who is nursing his own broken heart, and the two of them seem to click almost immediately on a professional level, but maybe they can both help each other in their quests for happiness and true love! Can he be her knight in shining armour?!
Such a fun read, full of some lovely characters and some very over the top ones too! I loved how their work lives helped them forget their rather messy love lives, and I loved the one liners and the different situations they found themselves in! It all added to the enjoyment as the story flowed at a fabulous pace and I can't wait to read more from this author.
Ooh and special praise for the glittery cover too! It's fabulous!!
August 27, 2013
I loved this book. Right from the beginning I was beguiled by its charm and went to bed early so I could find out what would happen to Cat and Adam. Both suffering from the fallout of disastrous relationships they are determined not to enter another. But then, along comes someone who knows true love when she sees it. A fairy godmother? Well, she doesn't have wings, but she she's quite good at making wishes come true. One of the happiest books I've ever read with a real 'ahh' factor.
March 31, 2020
Just finished this for the third time and it was just as good as the first time!
Loved this audiobook.
Just finished it and could listen to it all over again. Fanny Gregory of Super Dup Promotions was hilarious, my sweet, my angel! ☺
Loved this audiobook.
Just finished it and could listen to it all over again. Fanny Gregory of Super Dup Promotions was hilarious, my sweet, my angel! ☺
May 6, 2013
My 87 year old mother tells me that The Silver Locket (free on Kindle at time of writing) is one of the best books she's ever read - sadly I can't endorse that because the book (along with its sequels The Golden Chain and The Penny Bangle) is still languishing on my Kindle, awaiting its turn. But I was intrigued to see that Margaret James had written a book with a present day setting, read it in two sittings, and have to say I absolutely loved it.
Cat Aston wins a fairytale wedding in a competition, but there is one big problem - her fiance Jack is no longer around, having gone away to "find himself". Cat plays along for a while - maybe Jack will come back and everything will work out. Meanwhile, Adam Lawley proposes to his girlfriend and is rejected. When Adam meets Cat at the reclamation yard where she works - he renovates old houses - there is an immediate attraction. As he knows about the wedding, Adam believes Cat to be off limits, but they can't stop thinking about each other.
There are no massive surprises in the way the story plays out (although there are many twists, turns and misunderstandings), but this is such a well written book, with immensely likeable main characters and a real feel good feeling about it. The subsidiary characters are really well drawn too - the hapless Jack, Cat's friends, and the wonderful Fanny from Supadoop Productions. I particularly loved the Italian setting for part of the story - vividly drawn, and wonderfully romantic.
This is one I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a bit of escapism and romance, but likes it really well written. Lots of funny moments, highly entertaining and a joy to read. Don't go on holiday without it - well done Margaret, and another winner from Choc Lit. (And sometime soon, I'll have to see if my Mum was right about the others...)
Cat Aston wins a fairytale wedding in a competition, but there is one big problem - her fiance Jack is no longer around, having gone away to "find himself". Cat plays along for a while - maybe Jack will come back and everything will work out. Meanwhile, Adam Lawley proposes to his girlfriend and is rejected. When Adam meets Cat at the reclamation yard where she works - he renovates old houses - there is an immediate attraction. As he knows about the wedding, Adam believes Cat to be off limits, but they can't stop thinking about each other.
There are no massive surprises in the way the story plays out (although there are many twists, turns and misunderstandings), but this is such a well written book, with immensely likeable main characters and a real feel good feeling about it. The subsidiary characters are really well drawn too - the hapless Jack, Cat's friends, and the wonderful Fanny from Supadoop Productions. I particularly loved the Italian setting for part of the story - vividly drawn, and wonderfully romantic.
This is one I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a bit of escapism and romance, but likes it really well written. Lots of funny moments, highly entertaining and a joy to read. Don't go on holiday without it - well done Margaret, and another winner from Choc Lit. (And sometime soon, I'll have to see if my Mum was right about the others...)
June 10, 2013
A delightful rom-com set in London with a hint of Tuscan fever. We follow Cat Aston, who’s just lost a fiancé but won a dream wedding, on her intriguing journey. Simultaneously, we step into broken-hearted Adam Lawley’s life, a gorgeous, kind and generous tradesman (never thought I could find one), who’s just had his marriage proposal rejected by his girlfriend. Cat and Adam’s paths cross, but are they really made for each other?
I read the entire book with a smile on my face. It’s funny, warm, and definitely has the feel good factor. It has lots of twists and turns to keep you on your toes, and some brilliant one-liners. I loved the Italian part, felt like I was there, sipping coffee at a pavement cafe, watching the scenes being played out. I really liked all the characters in this novel but my favourite was Fanny Gregory (perhaps we’ll hear her story one day). The Wedding Diary is packed with humour, romance and sparkle. All in all it was a fabulous read - beautifully written. I loved it. In fact, I might just read it again.
I read the entire book with a smile on my face. It’s funny, warm, and definitely has the feel good factor. It has lots of twists and turns to keep you on your toes, and some brilliant one-liners. I loved the Italian part, felt like I was there, sipping coffee at a pavement cafe, watching the scenes being played out. I really liked all the characters in this novel but my favourite was Fanny Gregory (perhaps we’ll hear her story one day). The Wedding Diary is packed with humour, romance and sparkle. All in all it was a fabulous read - beautifully written. I loved it. In fact, I might just read it again.
August 1, 2013
Let me start by saying how much I liked this novel. Having read (and enjoyed) the author's historical novels I wasn't sure what to expect - but I needn't have worried. She writes with a fresh, fast paced style and her voice throughout is spot on. Reading some of the reviews I see that some readers didn't like Fanny, but I loved her. I know people like her who sweep you along before you have time to gulp out: "Wait a minute" and you've been roped in to doing something you'd rather not. I enjoyed the banter between Cat and her snarky best friends and had there were some laugh aloud moments when they took on the role of agony aunt. Ok - so we all knew who Cat was going to end up with but I was bowled along by the story and didn't mind that. Like one of the other reviewers I think that Adam is the star of the show, although boyfriend #1 did have a certain self-centred charm that made me smile - wryly. I normally only read a few pages of a novel before I fall asleep but this one kept me turning the pages. What more can I say?
May 12, 2013
Finished it this morning ....its a dream of a book....very easy flowing read,with great character..especially yummy Adam Lawley...recommended and chip as chips...ON THE KINDLE..
Not read anything by Margaret James before but will be taking a look at her books from now on........thanks for a fab read.x
Not read anything by Margaret James before but will be taking a look at her books from now on........thanks for a fab read.x
May 25, 2014
Imagine winning the wedding of your dreams but your fiancé has done a runner. I loved this premise and couldn't wait to find out how Cat negotiated her way through such a dilemma. The Wedding Diary is a romantic, fun read, in which Margaret James has created a great set of characters. I particularly liked the Fairy Godmother, Fanny Gregory, whom I think deserves a book of her own!
July 11, 2013
Liked this a lot. I felt that there were a few issues left unresolved. A few characters that could have been brought together to make a more satisfying ending. I thought it ended a bit abruptly. But, I still really enjoyed this book.
February 3, 2014
Fab storyline which kept me hooked. I just needed to know what was happening next. The story flowed well and kept my attention and there were a few twists which I didn't expect but love it all the same.
May 14, 2015
Brilliant chick lit, absolutely loved it
June 26, 2016
a good read.
January 9, 2014
really enjoyed this book. romance & comedy,what more could you want
August 21, 2020
This is one of the times when i wanted goodreads to introduce "half" star as my rating is- 2.5
Ok, i did finish it in a couple of days but it was just because i didn't having anything else going on and didn't wanted to start a series...
The story is about Cat, Our lead who has been chosen as a lucky winner of a marriage competition and now will have a perfect "Hi-Fi" wedding. The only problem? She doesn't know where her fiance is.
Our main male protagonist is not the Fiance but Jack, who is a builder and has been heartbroken by his girlfriend when she refused his engagement.
Now, as i've written the Blurb in my own words it does sounds good But well.... I guess the novel was not? At Least not that good that it got 5 stars from the other reviews of the book that i've seen.
This is a minority reviews guys.
Now, the things that I liked: cat's friends- Bex and Tess, they were funny and light. Fiona: The person who was handling the competition and the ending. That's it!
COMING TO THE CONS: I didn't like the main Protagonists! I mean the novel is cut by at least half the stars when you s=don't like when either one of them, right?
So, Cat: she was flat, boring and idk... just not interesting at all.
Ok, i did finish it in a couple of days but it was just because i didn't having anything else going on and didn't wanted to start a series...
The story is about Cat, Our lead who has been chosen as a lucky winner of a marriage competition and now will have a perfect "Hi-Fi" wedding. The only problem? She doesn't know where her fiance is.
Our main male protagonist is not the Fiance but Jack, who is a builder and has been heartbroken by his girlfriend when she refused his engagement.
Now, as i've written the Blurb in my own words it does sounds good But well.... I guess the novel was not? At Least not that good that it got 5 stars from the other reviews of the book that i've seen.
This is a minority reviews guys.
Now, the things that I liked: cat's friends- Bex and Tess, they were funny and light. Fiona: The person who was handling the competition and the ending. That's it!
COMING TO THE CONS: I didn't like the main Protagonists! I mean the novel is cut by at least half the stars when you s=don't like when either one of them, right?
So, Cat: she was flat, boring and idk... just not interesting at all.
March 30, 2021
This was an enjoyable chic lit novel. The story starts when Cat is looking for her missing fiance Jack and Adam proposes to his girlfriend Maddy. We then find out that Cat had entered a magazine competition (and forgot about it) and has won a wedding package at the classy Melbury Court Hotel and all she needs is to find Jack to claim it! What I liked about the story was it's hint of mischievous fun, it had some interesting characters.
September 9, 2017
2.5
Loved the style. This book had a lot of potential and could have been great, but lost it somewhere along the way and ended up being okay-ish. Didn't work out well, in my opinion.
Loved the style. This book had a lot of potential and could have been great, but lost it somewhere along the way and ended up being okay-ish. Didn't work out well, in my opinion.
April 29, 2019
A lovely romance story.
July 17, 2021
Standard romance story plot felt a bit rushed at the end. Good and enjoyable read.
October 14, 2013
Acclaimed historical novelist Margaret James proves to be a contender to Sophie Kinsella’s chick lit crown with her first contemporary novel, The Wedding Diary!
After her handsome but feckless fiance walked out on her, all Cat Aston wanted to do was curl up on the sofa, eat her body weight in chocolate and wallow in self-pity. Jack had been the man of her dreams and Cat had spent the last couple of months fantasizing about her dream wedding and a blissful future with Jack. Sadly, her errant fiance was more concerned with his quest for superstardom and finding ways of not paying his own way than with place settings and tiered cakes – which is unfortunate as Cat has just won a fairy-tale wedding at one of the UK’s most lavish hotels! How on earth is Cat going to claim her prize when her groom has disappeared off the face of the earth? Although she knows that the most sensible option would be to rescind her prize, Cat cannot resist keeping mum about Jack’s current whereabouts. After all, he is bound to turn up sooner or later with a perfectly logical explanation, isn’t he?
Romance is the last thing on Adam Lawley’s mind. When he had met the beautiful Maddy, Adam had thought that he had found his soul mate. Unfortunately for Adam though, Maddy cared more about her charity work than she did about their relationship. When she turns down his heartfelt marriage proposal, a heartbroken Adam vows never to put his heart on the line ever again. Having resigned himself to spending the rest of his life as a single man, Adam decides to invest all of his time and energy into his fledgling business. His love life might be a disaster area, but at least his business is thriving. However, when a chance encounter propels him into Cat Aston’s path, the recently single Adam soon begins to find his resolve to stay unattached weakening…
Although a part of Cat hasn’t quite given up hope of being reunited with Jack, another part of her has started to find the moody, brooding and heartbroken Adam rather attractive. As fate throws the two of them together, an attraction which simply cannot be denied soon develops. But will a casual infatuation give way to something more?
Are Cat and Adam ready to let go of the past and grab this second chance at happiness? Or will they let this unexpected blessing slip through their fingers because they are both afraid of getting hurt again?
Margaret James has written some of my all-time favourite historical romances, so I must admit that I was initially dismayed when I found out that she was going to start writing contemporaries, but no sooner had I read the first chapter of The Wedding Diary that I found myself falling head over heels in love with sassy Cat, sexy Adam, ditzy best friends Tess and Bex and the eccentric – but absolutely wonderful – Fanny.
The Wedding Diary is a fabulous story of love, friendships and relationships that made me laugh out loud. Fast-paced, hilariously funny and impossible to resist, The Wedding Diary proves that, regardless of genre, if a book has got Margaret James’ name on the cover, then a first-class read is guaranteed!
This review was originally published on Single Titles.
After her handsome but feckless fiance walked out on her, all Cat Aston wanted to do was curl up on the sofa, eat her body weight in chocolate and wallow in self-pity. Jack had been the man of her dreams and Cat had spent the last couple of months fantasizing about her dream wedding and a blissful future with Jack. Sadly, her errant fiance was more concerned with his quest for superstardom and finding ways of not paying his own way than with place settings and tiered cakes – which is unfortunate as Cat has just won a fairy-tale wedding at one of the UK’s most lavish hotels! How on earth is Cat going to claim her prize when her groom has disappeared off the face of the earth? Although she knows that the most sensible option would be to rescind her prize, Cat cannot resist keeping mum about Jack’s current whereabouts. After all, he is bound to turn up sooner or later with a perfectly logical explanation, isn’t he?
Romance is the last thing on Adam Lawley’s mind. When he had met the beautiful Maddy, Adam had thought that he had found his soul mate. Unfortunately for Adam though, Maddy cared more about her charity work than she did about their relationship. When she turns down his heartfelt marriage proposal, a heartbroken Adam vows never to put his heart on the line ever again. Having resigned himself to spending the rest of his life as a single man, Adam decides to invest all of his time and energy into his fledgling business. His love life might be a disaster area, but at least his business is thriving. However, when a chance encounter propels him into Cat Aston’s path, the recently single Adam soon begins to find his resolve to stay unattached weakening…
Although a part of Cat hasn’t quite given up hope of being reunited with Jack, another part of her has started to find the moody, brooding and heartbroken Adam rather attractive. As fate throws the two of them together, an attraction which simply cannot be denied soon develops. But will a casual infatuation give way to something more?
Are Cat and Adam ready to let go of the past and grab this second chance at happiness? Or will they let this unexpected blessing slip through their fingers because they are both afraid of getting hurt again?
Margaret James has written some of my all-time favourite historical romances, so I must admit that I was initially dismayed when I found out that she was going to start writing contemporaries, but no sooner had I read the first chapter of The Wedding Diary that I found myself falling head over heels in love with sassy Cat, sexy Adam, ditzy best friends Tess and Bex and the eccentric – but absolutely wonderful – Fanny.
The Wedding Diary is a fabulous story of love, friendships and relationships that made me laugh out loud. Fast-paced, hilariously funny and impossible to resist, The Wedding Diary proves that, regardless of genre, if a book has got Margaret James’ name on the cover, then a first-class read is guaranteed!
This review was originally published on Single Titles.
May 17, 2013
Originally published on www.serendipityreviews.co.uk
Imagine winning your dream wedding, only to discover you are now groomless! A frightening prospect for anyone, so it isn’t surprising that the main character Cat, panics just a little. She has always dreamed of the most amazing wedding, so you can’t blame her for going along with it, hoping that a groom might land in her lap from nowhere. How fortunate for her that one does and what a charmer he is.
The story appears in a calendar format rather than a diary, as each new chapter is a new day in the lives of Adam and Cat. Told from alternate viewpoints, you watch helplessly as they get used and spat out by their respective spouses, until they find each other. A gorgeous weekend in the stunning and beautifully described Italian setting, seals their blossoming friendship, only to find the glue wasn’t permanent by the time they returned home. Slippery exes have a habit of screwing everything up and one in particular makes their relationship a little difficult.
I enjoyed the plot of the story and some of the characters. Unfortunately one in particular really annoyed me and I found it difficult to ignore her. Fanny drove me mad. She was so bossy and rude in the first half of the book that I found it really difficult to believe her complete transformation by the end of the book. She really just didn’t gel with me. Also Cat wasn’t a favourite with me either, she comes across as very weak and easily led. I wanted to give her a good shake to realise earlier on what an awful choice Jack would be especially when she takes him back so easily.
I loved Adam, from his first step onto the page – even if he was a bit of a romantic fool. I’m always wary of people who rush into marriage and is this book there are a few characters who get swept away with the romance of it all far too easily for my liking. However, if Adam should fall from the shelf, I would happily swoop it to put the broken pieces back together. His gentlemanly ways of paying for everything and opening doors, caused my heart to flutter just a little.
Other than finding certain characters annoying, the book was enjoyable. The story was warm and funny, showing just how wonderful and romantic it can be when you find the right person to spend the rest of your life with. A quick and easy read, with a fairy-tale ending.
Imagine winning your dream wedding, only to discover you are now groomless! A frightening prospect for anyone, so it isn’t surprising that the main character Cat, panics just a little. She has always dreamed of the most amazing wedding, so you can’t blame her for going along with it, hoping that a groom might land in her lap from nowhere. How fortunate for her that one does and what a charmer he is.
The story appears in a calendar format rather than a diary, as each new chapter is a new day in the lives of Adam and Cat. Told from alternate viewpoints, you watch helplessly as they get used and spat out by their respective spouses, until they find each other. A gorgeous weekend in the stunning and beautifully described Italian setting, seals their blossoming friendship, only to find the glue wasn’t permanent by the time they returned home. Slippery exes have a habit of screwing everything up and one in particular makes their relationship a little difficult.
I enjoyed the plot of the story and some of the characters. Unfortunately one in particular really annoyed me and I found it difficult to ignore her. Fanny drove me mad. She was so bossy and rude in the first half of the book that I found it really difficult to believe her complete transformation by the end of the book. She really just didn’t gel with me. Also Cat wasn’t a favourite with me either, she comes across as very weak and easily led. I wanted to give her a good shake to realise earlier on what an awful choice Jack would be especially when she takes him back so easily.
I loved Adam, from his first step onto the page – even if he was a bit of a romantic fool. I’m always wary of people who rush into marriage and is this book there are a few characters who get swept away with the romance of it all far too easily for my liking. However, if Adam should fall from the shelf, I would happily swoop it to put the broken pieces back together. His gentlemanly ways of paying for everything and opening doors, caused my heart to flutter just a little.
Other than finding certain characters annoying, the book was enjoyable. The story was warm and funny, showing just how wonderful and romantic it can be when you find the right person to spend the rest of your life with. A quick and easy read, with a fairy-tale ending.
May 21, 2013
I don’t usually mention covers in my reviews but couldn’t resist! The cover is stunning. The butterflies , moon and stars sparkle and alongside the background midnight blue makes you want to pick it up and find out what’s between the pages.
It’s Saturday 23rd April Jack has gone off to find himself and Cat is alone when she receives the phone call to tell her she’s won first prize in the competition in which she entered months ago.
Adam Lawley proposes to pretentious girlfriend Maddy and is left heart-broken when he realises how lightly she’s taken their relationship.
When Cat and Adam meet at Chapman’s Architectural Salvage, Adam is looking for Cotswold tiles and Cat is the Office Manager who takes him into the yard to find them.
With our main characters in place, we begin a humorous and sometimes stressful romantic journey.
I was fascinated by Adam’s job as a freelance project manager in restorations. This is integral to the story and very believable.
I loved the banter between Cat and her best friends Bex and Tess.
Being in Tuscany was great!
What I really liked about the plot is the fact that it isn’t drawn out. Half-way through I thought, where is this taking us? We’ve nowhere left to go … so I loved the how the plot changed after this.
I really liked Cat until something happens half-way through a trip which I thought was unfeeling and callous. I understood why she abandoned the journey and made her way back home but she done it with so little care that I found it hard to identify with her after that.
The romance is very uplifting. I have to say that sometimes, more can be conveyed from shutting the door on those bedroom scenes. The lead up showed very clearly the passion and emotions and this is just right in this story.
My favourite character has to be Fanny the wedding planner. Hugely entertaining, she adds conflict and tension!
I wondered what I would think about The Wedding Diary after having read Margaret James’ The Silver Locket. Two totally different styles of writing and genres. Margaret James has shown her versatility in this entertaining chick lit that is uplifting.
I would like to thank the publishers for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
It’s Saturday 23rd April Jack has gone off to find himself and Cat is alone when she receives the phone call to tell her she’s won first prize in the competition in which she entered months ago.
Adam Lawley proposes to pretentious girlfriend Maddy and is left heart-broken when he realises how lightly she’s taken their relationship.
When Cat and Adam meet at Chapman’s Architectural Salvage, Adam is looking for Cotswold tiles and Cat is the Office Manager who takes him into the yard to find them.
With our main characters in place, we begin a humorous and sometimes stressful romantic journey.
I was fascinated by Adam’s job as a freelance project manager in restorations. This is integral to the story and very believable.
I loved the banter between Cat and her best friends Bex and Tess.
Being in Tuscany was great!
What I really liked about the plot is the fact that it isn’t drawn out. Half-way through I thought, where is this taking us? We’ve nowhere left to go … so I loved the how the plot changed after this.
I really liked Cat until something happens half-way through a trip which I thought was unfeeling and callous. I understood why she abandoned the journey and made her way back home but she done it with so little care that I found it hard to identify with her after that.
The romance is very uplifting. I have to say that sometimes, more can be conveyed from shutting the door on those bedroom scenes. The lead up showed very clearly the passion and emotions and this is just right in this story.
My favourite character has to be Fanny the wedding planner. Hugely entertaining, she adds conflict and tension!
I wondered what I would think about The Wedding Diary after having read Margaret James’ The Silver Locket. Two totally different styles of writing and genres. Margaret James has shown her versatility in this entertaining chick lit that is uplifting.
I would like to thank the publishers for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2013
Receiving only sadness from the man she thinks she is going to marry, Catherine Aston is not interested in anyone but Jack. She is having a hard time putting her life together and guess what? She wins an all-inclusive wedding that compares to one of royalty. There is just one problem–there is no groom.
What can mend a broken heart? Life is dull and lifeless except when work comes into play. Adam Langley is frustrated with a proposal that seems to be more of a farce. How has he not seen it coming? He is glad to have friends that care about him, but he does not know how to show it. He is broken. One woman he works with from time to time needs some mending of her own. He sees a kindred spirit in her, though he also sees her going back down the same road she has supposedly left. So he has the opportunity to do the same. He swears never to fall in love again.
Adam has helped make Cat feel better than she has in years. She is glad she is able to have her wedding and groom and not miss a beat in the upcoming celebration of her life. However, there is a debt she needs to pay when she finds out all too late that some things are a sham. How can she pay back all she has received? Can she afford to be sued? Life is getting heavier by the moment. Adam has gone away to work in a remote and beautiful area, not knowing what twists and turns he is about to encounter.
This book tickles my toes and warms my heart. You will want to get a warm cup of chocolate and some nice tasty cookies or wafers to enjoy while reading this wonderful tale. Having such illustrative words gives you the total picture of what is going on as the plot thickens in all the right spots. This book naturally leads you in the direction your heart yearns to go. It has enough conflict to remind you that even characters’ lives have chaos, which is not always so easy to figure out. It is realistic yet very much like a fairytale. A movie, audio book and most definitely a sequel would be welcomed as it is rich with memorable events and makes you smile with understanding. The cover is very indicative of the story…magical.
Trully
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
What can mend a broken heart? Life is dull and lifeless except when work comes into play. Adam Langley is frustrated with a proposal that seems to be more of a farce. How has he not seen it coming? He is glad to have friends that care about him, but he does not know how to show it. He is broken. One woman he works with from time to time needs some mending of her own. He sees a kindred spirit in her, though he also sees her going back down the same road she has supposedly left. So he has the opportunity to do the same. He swears never to fall in love again.
Adam has helped make Cat feel better than she has in years. She is glad she is able to have her wedding and groom and not miss a beat in the upcoming celebration of her life. However, there is a debt she needs to pay when she finds out all too late that some things are a sham. How can she pay back all she has received? Can she afford to be sued? Life is getting heavier by the moment. Adam has gone away to work in a remote and beautiful area, not knowing what twists and turns he is about to encounter.
This book tickles my toes and warms my heart. You will want to get a warm cup of chocolate and some nice tasty cookies or wafers to enjoy while reading this wonderful tale. Having such illustrative words gives you the total picture of what is going on as the plot thickens in all the right spots. This book naturally leads you in the direction your heart yearns to go. It has enough conflict to remind you that even characters’ lives have chaos, which is not always so easy to figure out. It is realistic yet very much like a fairytale. A movie, audio book and most definitely a sequel would be welcomed as it is rich with memorable events and makes you smile with understanding. The cover is very indicative of the story…magical.
Trully
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
May 6, 2013
Cat Aston has won what many girls and women dream of – a fairytale wedding! However, there is one slight problem…Cat’s fiance Jack has dome a runner. Adam Lawley has been left similarly left devastated after his girlfriend turned down his proposal, leaving Adam vowing not to fall in love again. When Adam and Cat bump into each other, there seems to be an attraction, and although they are both broken hearted, they can’t stop thinking about each other. Will Cat and Adam be able to find happiness together?
I absolutely loved The Wedding Diary! The way I would describe it is that it is such a happy read! I was genuinely delighted as I read it and I always looked forward to returning to it on an evening or after I had finished dinner.
The characters were wonderfully written. I warmed to Cat straight away. She had such a fantastic personality, she was so warm and likeable, and whilst reading I desperately wanted her to find happiness and love again. Adam…oh he was lovely! He was such a gentleman and I fell in love with him straight away. I loved his feeling towards Cat, I loved how he was with her, and reading about them together made my heart warm. Even though the relationship between them is not all plain sailing, I was hooked and I was rooting for them!
The secondary characters were brilliant, and had me laughing out loud many times! Fanny in particular was very memorable, and actually turned out to be one of my favourite characters!
The settings are beautifully described, especially the Italian town of Lucca. When I was reading these scenes, I felt as though I had been transported there and when I had finished I was actually rather disappointed to find that I was actually in my living room! I’m now dreaming of catching a flight to a sunny destination!
The Wedding Diary is a fantastic story full of love, romance, funny moments and happiness. If you are planning to go on holiday this year, or even just sit out in your back garden in the sun, then make sure you buy a copy of this novel because it is a truly beautiful story that you will enjoy delving into.
I absolutely loved The Wedding Diary! The way I would describe it is that it is such a happy read! I was genuinely delighted as I read it and I always looked forward to returning to it on an evening or after I had finished dinner.
The characters were wonderfully written. I warmed to Cat straight away. She had such a fantastic personality, she was so warm and likeable, and whilst reading I desperately wanted her to find happiness and love again. Adam…oh he was lovely! He was such a gentleman and I fell in love with him straight away. I loved his feeling towards Cat, I loved how he was with her, and reading about them together made my heart warm. Even though the relationship between them is not all plain sailing, I was hooked and I was rooting for them!
The secondary characters were brilliant, and had me laughing out loud many times! Fanny in particular was very memorable, and actually turned out to be one of my favourite characters!
The settings are beautifully described, especially the Italian town of Lucca. When I was reading these scenes, I felt as though I had been transported there and when I had finished I was actually rather disappointed to find that I was actually in my living room! I’m now dreaming of catching a flight to a sunny destination!
The Wedding Diary is a fantastic story full of love, romance, funny moments and happiness. If you are planning to go on holiday this year, or even just sit out in your back garden in the sun, then make sure you buy a copy of this novel because it is a truly beautiful story that you will enjoy delving into.
May 13, 2013
This book attracted me from the start with its cover. Until I found this publisher, Choc Lit publishing, I wasn’t really a chic lit kind of reader. I have to say so far I’ve not been disappointed with any of the authors I’ve come across and this book was no exception.
Cat Aston, entered a competition in a magazine and won her dream wedding, in a luxury country hotel with all the trimmings and a magazine photographic deal. Who wouldn’t want that? Only problem is that her fiancé has done a runner and despite her trying desperately to contact him, he hasn’t got in touch with her. He’s gone to find himself!
Elsewhere, Adam Lawley’s girlfriend has left him after he proposed. He feels that life is at an end. Two lost souls. In a way from reading this you feel that the book is going to be a bit predictable, however there are so many obstacles placed in their way, that the predictability soon fades!
I loved the flow of this book and how the chapters seamlessly led into each other. It was a light hearted read with some wonderful characters. Cat comes across as a well balanced girl on the outside, but then you want to shake her when she says stupid things about her loser of a fiancée as she is blinded by love. I totally immersed myself in the story.
Adam seems like every girls dream; Kind, good looking and a real gentleman. It makes you wonder why his girlfriend turned down his proposal in favouring of going off travelling. I fell in love with him straight away! I started trying to picture who would play him in a rom com version of the book.
The authors’ description of people and places really brought them to life, and you just romanticised as you read through the book. This is another book that I read in two sittings. I have now bought the next book by Margaret James, The Silver Locket, which is part of a trilogy and I can’t wait to get started on it.
Thoroughly recommend this as another “curl up on the sofa” book.
This book was given to me as a review copy. I was not paid for my review and this did not influence my review in any way.
Cat Aston, entered a competition in a magazine and won her dream wedding, in a luxury country hotel with all the trimmings and a magazine photographic deal. Who wouldn’t want that? Only problem is that her fiancé has done a runner and despite her trying desperately to contact him, he hasn’t got in touch with her. He’s gone to find himself!
Elsewhere, Adam Lawley’s girlfriend has left him after he proposed. He feels that life is at an end. Two lost souls. In a way from reading this you feel that the book is going to be a bit predictable, however there are so many obstacles placed in their way, that the predictability soon fades!
I loved the flow of this book and how the chapters seamlessly led into each other. It was a light hearted read with some wonderful characters. Cat comes across as a well balanced girl on the outside, but then you want to shake her when she says stupid things about her loser of a fiancée as she is blinded by love. I totally immersed myself in the story.
Adam seems like every girls dream; Kind, good looking and a real gentleman. It makes you wonder why his girlfriend turned down his proposal in favouring of going off travelling. I fell in love with him straight away! I started trying to picture who would play him in a rom com version of the book.
The authors’ description of people and places really brought them to life, and you just romanticised as you read through the book. This is another book that I read in two sittings. I have now bought the next book by Margaret James, The Silver Locket, which is part of a trilogy and I can’t wait to get started on it.
Thoroughly recommend this as another “curl up on the sofa” book.
This book was given to me as a review copy. I was not paid for my review and this did not influence my review in any way.
August 25, 2017
This book reminded me a little of the film Sliding Doors, where Gwyneth Paltrow simultaneously lives two alternate versions of her life.
Cat works in an architectural savage yard as office manager. Her stand-up comedian boyfriend/fiancé has decided he doesn't want to get married and appears to have disappeared off the face of the earth. Which is unfortunate because Cat has won a dream wedding at a country house.
Adam is a builder/house restorer who proposed to his girlfriend at the theatre and was cruelly rejected.
Cat and Adam seem to be living parallel lives swirling around each other.
Despite their individual misery and heartbreak Cat and Adam are attracted to each other, or at least can't stop thinking about each other. Adam buys things from her yard, they meet at the country house where Cat's prize wedding will be held and Adam is converting the stables into a spa.
This was a fun, quirky English romance complete with loser boyfriends, friends who are more like frenemies, and self-absorbed ex-girlfriends, not forgetting the overbearing PR woman Fanny and her lovely dog.
There were just a few places which felt 'odd'. Adam and Cat's first kiss came out of nowhere, in fact I was convinced he was dreaming because it felt so out-of-context. There were other times later in the book.
Fanny felt overdrawn to me. How winning a dream wedding can be steamrollered into a reality TV show and sponsorship is beyond me - and whilst it was believable that Cat could be bullied into doing/believing these things I found the later stuff out of character and frankly unbelievable
I also thought the "surprise" was telegraphed too much.
But, those are the negatives. I enjoyed the book and would read another by Ms James.
Cat works in an architectural savage yard as office manager. Her stand-up comedian boyfriend/fiancé has decided he doesn't want to get married and appears to have disappeared off the face of the earth. Which is unfortunate because Cat has won a dream wedding at a country house.
Adam is a builder/house restorer who proposed to his girlfriend at the theatre and was cruelly rejected.
Cat and Adam seem to be living parallel lives swirling around each other.
Despite their individual misery and heartbreak Cat and Adam are attracted to each other, or at least can't stop thinking about each other. Adam buys things from her yard, they meet at the country house where Cat's prize wedding will be held and Adam is converting the stables into a spa.
This was a fun, quirky English romance complete with loser boyfriends, friends who are more like frenemies, and self-absorbed ex-girlfriends, not forgetting the overbearing PR woman Fanny and her lovely dog.
There were just a few places which felt 'odd'. Adam and Cat's first kiss came out of nowhere, in fact I was convinced he was dreaming because it felt so out-of-context. There were other times later in the book.
Fanny felt overdrawn to me. How winning a dream wedding can be steamrollered into a reality TV show and sponsorship is beyond me - and whilst it was believable that Cat could be bullied into doing/believing these things I found the later stuff out of character and frankly unbelievable
I also thought the "surprise" was telegraphed too much.
But, those are the negatives. I enjoyed the book and would read another by Ms James.
May 1, 2013
4.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was very interested by the title of this book, I am so not bridezilla myself and I just love to read about them, how they go crazy about their weddings and every teeny tiny detail is growing to almost unheard - of problem.
But actually here we don't have such thing. The idea of winning your dream wedding has hooked me from the very beginning, either you don't win anything or you win a wedding, with everything paid for. Wow. I was expecting tears, drama, detailed stories about every little thing that you must do before you get married, I was expecting a real diary, much more about Jack disappearing, much more about the wedding itself, and here is where I was a little disappointed, because it was actually not a diary. And there was not a lot about the preparation for the wedding.
But there were fantastic characters in this book. Cat, although sooo naive, was also very warm, very nice, very friendly and she knew what she wanted. Sometimes she was like little girl, sometimes she took the actions in her hands and was like super - woman. She was tender and had a good heart and tried for everything to be perfect but sometimes was just too weak. And I didn't especially like when she felt that all other people are so much clever as she is. Her first boyfriend Jack was unbelievable, I wanted to kick him hard on his back, open the door and told him to leave. Adam was his total opposite, nice to read about a male character who uses his brain and his hands to work so much. And Fanny was a character for her own book herself, first a witch and then still a fairy - tale.
There were moments that everything was happening out of the blue for me, I was missing more details, explanations, action, but on the other hand it was compelling reading that had me warm at heart. Cup of hot chocolate plus "The Wedding Diary" = perfect evening.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was very interested by the title of this book, I am so not bridezilla myself and I just love to read about them, how they go crazy about their weddings and every teeny tiny detail is growing to almost unheard - of problem.
But actually here we don't have such thing. The idea of winning your dream wedding has hooked me from the very beginning, either you don't win anything or you win a wedding, with everything paid for. Wow. I was expecting tears, drama, detailed stories about every little thing that you must do before you get married, I was expecting a real diary, much more about Jack disappearing, much more about the wedding itself, and here is where I was a little disappointed, because it was actually not a diary. And there was not a lot about the preparation for the wedding.
But there were fantastic characters in this book. Cat, although sooo naive, was also very warm, very nice, very friendly and she knew what she wanted. Sometimes she was like little girl, sometimes she took the actions in her hands and was like super - woman. She was tender and had a good heart and tried for everything to be perfect but sometimes was just too weak. And I didn't especially like when she felt that all other people are so much clever as she is. Her first boyfriend Jack was unbelievable, I wanted to kick him hard on his back, open the door and told him to leave. Adam was his total opposite, nice to read about a male character who uses his brain and his hands to work so much. And Fanny was a character for her own book herself, first a witch and then still a fairy - tale.
There were moments that everything was happening out of the blue for me, I was missing more details, explanations, action, but on the other hand it was compelling reading that had me warm at heart. Cup of hot chocolate plus "The Wedding Diary" = perfect evening.
April 15, 2013
Have posted this revciew on Amazon and also The Romaniacs' blog today - a fabulous read. This is one of those books that you keep on the shelf (or Kindle file) that’s specially reserved for comfort and joy reading. You must have one of those too – stories just sitting there waiting for that moment when you’ve got a horrible cold, or someone’s been mean to you, or life gives you an even bigger kick in the teeth.
I was having the first of these moments when I started reading the story of Cat and her search for the perfect bridegroom to star in her even more perfect wedding; snuffling, sneezing and being generally fed up. Within minutes, I was feeling much better, snuggled up in bed with this example of delicious escapism. I laughed at the antics of Tess and Bex, shivered when Fanny, the evil patroness, was particularly poisonous, and dreamed of a hero like Adam (just pointing put here that I was bagging him for my daughters, not for myself, honest...)
Cat’s tender heart nearly trips her up on more than one occasion – she’s tried so hard to be the ideal girlfriend at the start of the book, and finds the surly Adam not altogether appealing at first, but soon his smouldering charm begins to take effect. My favourite part is when Adam asks Cat to meet him in Italy and she immediately jumps on a plane and does so. Brilliant. No messing, just get in there, girl. The Italian descriptions add even further to the feel-good factor of Margaret’s novel – so well-drawn that you could be there, tasting the gorgeous food, feeling the warm sunshine and...say no more.
So, as a cold cure or for pure pleasure, I would thoroughly recommend The Wedding Diary. It’s easily as much fun as going to a real wedding without having to buy the expensive present or wear the skyscraper shoes. And you can choose your own buffet to accompany it.
I was having the first of these moments when I started reading the story of Cat and her search for the perfect bridegroom to star in her even more perfect wedding; snuffling, sneezing and being generally fed up. Within minutes, I was feeling much better, snuggled up in bed with this example of delicious escapism. I laughed at the antics of Tess and Bex, shivered when Fanny, the evil patroness, was particularly poisonous, and dreamed of a hero like Adam (just pointing put here that I was bagging him for my daughters, not for myself, honest...)
Cat’s tender heart nearly trips her up on more than one occasion – she’s tried so hard to be the ideal girlfriend at the start of the book, and finds the surly Adam not altogether appealing at first, but soon his smouldering charm begins to take effect. My favourite part is when Adam asks Cat to meet him in Italy and she immediately jumps on a plane and does so. Brilliant. No messing, just get in there, girl. The Italian descriptions add even further to the feel-good factor of Margaret’s novel – so well-drawn that you could be there, tasting the gorgeous food, feeling the warm sunshine and...say no more.
So, as a cold cure or for pure pleasure, I would thoroughly recommend The Wedding Diary. It’s easily as much fun as going to a real wedding without having to buy the expensive present or wear the skyscraper shoes. And you can choose your own buffet to accompany it.
May 10, 2013
Margaret James doesn’t normally write modern-day chicklit and I don’t normally read modern-day chicklit (well not very often anyway), so we were both on new territory here. But you can’t go far wrong with a book opening with the line: “All chocolate is medicinal. It’s a well known fact.”
Cat wins a dream wedding day in a competition — just around the same time that her fiance Jack does a runner. Adam wants to marry Maddy — but she throws his proposal back in his face. So we have two characters, both unlucky in love at the point where they first meet. This is a romantic novel, so most readers will have clear expectations of the final outcome. However it is the route that Cat and Adam take to that outcome, the unexpected detours, the barriers and the glitches which make this such a good book. It was fun to read and in parts, very funny. Like all books published by Choc Lit, the action is presented partly from the point of view of the heroine and partly in the voice of the hero. Hearing Adam’s take on the story as well as Cat’s was fascinating and added to the enjoyment for me. The settings were beautifully described, especially the scenes in Italy; I could feel the warm air on my skin as I read.
And then there is Fanny Gregory of Supadoop Promotions. What to say about Fanny? She starts off as the Wicked Witch and gradually morphs into The Fairy Godmother, but remains just a bit scary throughout. She is a wonderful character, with her Sienna Gold hair and magnificanent boobs that are definitely NOT plastic. Even if we don’t meet Cat and Adam again, I hope to come across Fanny and her greyhound Casper in a future book.
The Wedding Diary is like a huge bar of chocolate. Best eaten in one sitting while curled up in front of the fire — and missed once it is finished.
Cat wins a dream wedding day in a competition — just around the same time that her fiance Jack does a runner. Adam wants to marry Maddy — but she throws his proposal back in his face. So we have two characters, both unlucky in love at the point where they first meet. This is a romantic novel, so most readers will have clear expectations of the final outcome. However it is the route that Cat and Adam take to that outcome, the unexpected detours, the barriers and the glitches which make this such a good book. It was fun to read and in parts, very funny. Like all books published by Choc Lit, the action is presented partly from the point of view of the heroine and partly in the voice of the hero. Hearing Adam’s take on the story as well as Cat’s was fascinating and added to the enjoyment for me. The settings were beautifully described, especially the scenes in Italy; I could feel the warm air on my skin as I read.
And then there is Fanny Gregory of Supadoop Promotions. What to say about Fanny? She starts off as the Wicked Witch and gradually morphs into The Fairy Godmother, but remains just a bit scary throughout. She is a wonderful character, with her Sienna Gold hair and magnificanent boobs that are definitely NOT plastic. Even if we don’t meet Cat and Adam again, I hope to come across Fanny and her greyhound Casper in a future book.
The Wedding Diary is like a huge bar of chocolate. Best eaten in one sitting while curled up in front of the fire — and missed once it is finished.
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