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Event to Remember #1
An Event to Remember... or Forget: Event to Remember Series, Book 1
Sienna Harris is a girl with a plan. Her days of slaving away at Carrie's Classic Events and More are numbered as she is on the brink of launching her own event planning company. Her relationship with Luke Price is headed in the right direction, and they are approaching their one-year mark. The future is looking bright, and she knows that life could not get any better. That is until her perfectly planned world is thrown upside down by the unexpected arrival of someone from Luke's past.
She receives the shock of her life on the night of the biggest event of her career. Sienna will now have to pull it all together without a list or a plan. The question is, can she do it?
She receives the shock of her life on the night of the biggest event of her career. Sienna will now have to pull it all together without a list or a plan. The question is, can she do it?
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First published June 1, 2014
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About the author
Melissa Baldwin
39 books637 followersUSA Today bestselling author Melissa Baldwin is a planner-obsessed Disney fan who still watches Beverly Hills 90210 reruns and General Hospital.
She's a wife, mother, and journal keeper, who finally decided to write the book she talked about for years. She took her dream to the next level, and is now an award-winning, bestselling author of twenty-nine Romantic Comedy and Cozy Mystery novels and novellas. Melissa writes about charming, ambitious, and real women, and she considers these leading ladies to be part of her tribe.
When she isn't deep in the writing zone, this multitasking master organizer keeps busy by spending time with her family, traveling, attempting yoga poses, and going on rides at Disney World.
Visit authormelissabaldwin.com to sign up for her newsletter.
Fans of Melissa's books, join her Reader Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/57309...
She's a wife, mother, and journal keeper, who finally decided to write the book she talked about for years. She took her dream to the next level, and is now an award-winning, bestselling author of twenty-nine Romantic Comedy and Cozy Mystery novels and novellas. Melissa writes about charming, ambitious, and real women, and she considers these leading ladies to be part of her tribe.
When she isn't deep in the writing zone, this multitasking master organizer keeps busy by spending time with her family, traveling, attempting yoga poses, and going on rides at Disney World.
Visit authormelissabaldwin.com to sign up for her newsletter.
Fans of Melissa's books, join her Reader Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/57309...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
May 5, 2020
Release Date: June 1, 2014
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
Chick Lit
An Event to Remember… Or Forget by Melissa Baldwin is the first book in the Event to Remember series. I’ve had this book sitting on my iPad for a LONG time and decided now would be the perfect time to read it as I’m trying to lighten up the load of books that I have on my e-reader. For the most part I’m really glad I read it. For one, I’ve been on a chick lit binge and have been enjoying this genre immensely. It’s actually the genre that got me into read in the first place. So, going back to it is enjoyable. Secondly, I love books that aren’t flat out romance. While I do read romance more than any other genre, I need something else so that I don’t get into a book slump which has been happening quite frequently in the last few months. Breaking it up with different genres has been very helpful. Finally, I’ve enjoyed the authors books in the past and wanted to try one of her older novels and was mostly pleased with it. There’s a little twist in the story that I figured out before the reveal, but everything that leads up to it (including character growth) is what makes the journey. So, I really enjoyed that.
One of the things that I didn’t care for was how some of the book dragged for me. There was a lot going on in the story but instead of being excited and intrigued I felt a little bored. Don’t get me wrong, this is NOT a boring book but there are moments that seemed to drag on forever which left me feeling a little tired. Other than this I enjoyed Sienna’s story and am looking forward to seeing where Sheer Happiness takes her!
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
Chick Lit
An Event to Remember… Or Forget by Melissa Baldwin is the first book in the Event to Remember series. I’ve had this book sitting on my iPad for a LONG time and decided now would be the perfect time to read it as I’m trying to lighten up the load of books that I have on my e-reader. For the most part I’m really glad I read it. For one, I’ve been on a chick lit binge and have been enjoying this genre immensely. It’s actually the genre that got me into read in the first place. So, going back to it is enjoyable. Secondly, I love books that aren’t flat out romance. While I do read romance more than any other genre, I need something else so that I don’t get into a book slump which has been happening quite frequently in the last few months. Breaking it up with different genres has been very helpful. Finally, I’ve enjoyed the authors books in the past and wanted to try one of her older novels and was mostly pleased with it. There’s a little twist in the story that I figured out before the reveal, but everything that leads up to it (including character growth) is what makes the journey. So, I really enjoyed that.
One of the things that I didn’t care for was how some of the book dragged for me. There was a lot going on in the story but instead of being excited and intrigued I felt a little bored. Don’t get me wrong, this is NOT a boring book but there are moments that seemed to drag on forever which left me feeling a little tired. Other than this I enjoyed Sienna’s story and am looking forward to seeing where Sheer Happiness takes her!
March 29, 2017
Vapid, self-centred female. Stilted dialogue. Dnf.
July 3, 2014
Did I enjoy this book: I did enjoy this book. Once you really get into the story, you are in it until it is over.
Once you get to know her, Sienna is a character that you root for, hope for, and want to succeed. Sienna is sweet, hard-working, and very good at her job. She is so good that she is ready to go off on her own and leave her current job behind. Her life is where she thinks it should be until a few curve balls are thrown at her. Luke, Sienna’s boyfriend, is okay but doesn’t seem to care all that much for Sienna. He isn’t that likeable and there is a point toward the end where I said, out loud, “WTF??!!?? He can’t be serious!!??!!” Ace, a friend from the past, seems genuine and kind. He quickly won me over. Madie and Abby are great friends for Sienna. They are there for her, as are Sienna’s parents. I loved that Sienna talked to her parents, asked for advice, and cared about their opinions.
An Event to Remember . . . Or Forget is a fun story that has you invested to see if Sienna should remember, or forget, this huge event in her life. Well, events. These are turning points. Life changing events. The journey to these events is full of ups, downs, and laughs. I love the ending, but I’m not going to say why because I don’t want to spoil it. (I will say that it is not typical.) You’ll just have to read the book.
Would I recommend it: Yes, I would recommend it. It’s a fun read.
Disclosure: I did some editing work on this title. After that work was completed, I was asked by the author to review the book. I received a copy of this book for review purposes. Although I was compensated for the editing work, it in no way affected the outcome of my review. My review is my honest opinion of the book.
http://everyfreechance.com/2014/06/re...
Once you get to know her, Sienna is a character that you root for, hope for, and want to succeed. Sienna is sweet, hard-working, and very good at her job. She is so good that she is ready to go off on her own and leave her current job behind. Her life is where she thinks it should be until a few curve balls are thrown at her. Luke, Sienna’s boyfriend, is okay but doesn’t seem to care all that much for Sienna. He isn’t that likeable and there is a point toward the end where I said, out loud, “WTF??!!?? He can’t be serious!!??!!” Ace, a friend from the past, seems genuine and kind. He quickly won me over. Madie and Abby are great friends for Sienna. They are there for her, as are Sienna’s parents. I loved that Sienna talked to her parents, asked for advice, and cared about their opinions.
An Event to Remember . . . Or Forget is a fun story that has you invested to see if Sienna should remember, or forget, this huge event in her life. Well, events. These are turning points. Life changing events. The journey to these events is full of ups, downs, and laughs. I love the ending, but I’m not going to say why because I don’t want to spoil it. (I will say that it is not typical.) You’ll just have to read the book.
Would I recommend it: Yes, I would recommend it. It’s a fun read.
Disclosure: I did some editing work on this title. After that work was completed, I was asked by the author to review the book. I received a copy of this book for review purposes. Although I was compensated for the editing work, it in no way affected the outcome of my review. My review is my honest opinion of the book.
http://everyfreechance.com/2014/06/re...
March 30, 2017
DNF at 20%. The dialogue is atrocious and not at all believable or realistic.
August 11, 2017
Predictable, boring, stilted.
I really wanted to like this but between the complete predictability, the unnecessary details that felt shoehorned in like Cinderella's stepsisters trying to get their feet in the glass slipper, and the stilted dialogue, ugggggh. There were also a LOT of mistakes that make it seem like there was no editor.
Quite frankly, I skimmed a lot and only managed to get to the end because I wanted to see if I guessed right (I did). I'm glad this was a freebie and I didn't spend money on it.
I really wanted to like this but between the complete predictability, the unnecessary details that felt shoehorned in like Cinderella's stepsisters trying to get their feet in the glass slipper, and the stilted dialogue, ugggggh. There were also a LOT of mistakes that make it seem like there was no editor.
Quite frankly, I skimmed a lot and only managed to get to the end because I wanted to see if I guessed right (I did). I'm glad this was a freebie and I didn't spend money on it.
February 5, 2018
Reading this book was definitely "an event to forget". The plot had potential but the dialogues and character behaviours were non-sensical - seriously, how many times can somebody get away with mentioning to do lists, spin class, cookies and shoes?. But my main problem was the ending! Really?? REALLY????. It left me relieved of having finished the book and thinking... "why did I even bother finishing this?."
June 20, 2016
This review was originally posted on karaneleni.com
I'm late to the "Melissa Baldwin's books" game and am super disappointed in myself. *sigh* I've had Wedding Haters on my Kindle since, ohhh, September 2015. Of course, I need to read the series in order (even though the books are written so you don't have to) so I snagged An Event to Remember...or Forget on audiobook! Brilliant move now that I'm living about an hour from work again and have the most boring commute.
Again, smacking myself for not reading Melissa's books sooner. She's absolutely amazing and An Event to Remember...or Forget was an excellent listen! There were so many ways that I was able to relate to Sienna's story. I'm a planner too. Melissa and I actually have an obsession with the same planner so I knew I'd have a new friend in Sienna. (Hello Erin Condren planners! -Save $10 with my affiliate link/shameless plug-) I believe I actually took notes on some things that Sienna does to help with my blog and business! (Thanks, Melissa!!) *End planner rambling now* The similarities didn't end there. I recognized a few similar situations and cringed right along with Sienna and her friends.
Part of the problem with having access via Facebook to the authors you read is the ability to send them messages when you're reading their book. I remember messaging Melissa a few times with some "grrrs" and "OMGs" and "I think I know what's next...I hope I'm wrong!". Her responses? Hysterical laughter via stickers and emojis. Evil author. ;) For the record, I was both wrong and right. And OMG, I'm still worked up about parts of the book! That's a good book. When it sticks with you for a few weeks after reading. And when you want to punch some of the characters because they're idiots.
As for the narration, Melissa picked the perfect narrator in Katie Welburn! I'm going to have to take a peek at other titles she has lent her voice to. I've also got it on good authority that the Wedding Haters audiobook is in production! Can't wait!!!
May 27, 2017
I almost ever rate a book one star but this book was just not readable. The plot had potential but the writing was so bad I couldn't finish it. My apologies to the author--I commend you for writing and getting published; that is quite an accomplishment. However, you needed a good editor and some instruction on how to write dialogue and internal narration.
June 11, 2014
What a fantastic debut novel from Melissa Baldwin! It was the perfect escape and had me hooked from the first page. The characters were well developed and lots of book boyfriends to dream about.
Can't wait to read more from this author!
Can't wait to read more from this author!
February 11, 2018
Should really be titled when a good premise goes wrong. I was very disappointed in this book, from the blurb it sounded like a fun and frothy piece of chick lit and I am rather partial to such. Unfortunately it did not deliver on either of the two fronts that I judge a book by.
The basis of the plot is that Sienna is working for an Event Planner and has ended up more or less running the whole show with her boss just dropping in for a couple of hours a week to check their plans and then leaving the team to get on with it. So, she has decided to go out on her own and set up her own Event Planning business with her colleague Craig. She has been with Luke for 10 months but he is suddenly becoming distant, he is citing business meetings and trying to snare a new client for his brother's (mat have been brother-in-law) Advertising Agency. This sets us firmly against a series of glamorous private events and extremely glamorous personal events arranged for baby showers, birthdays and engagements of Sienna's closest friends. Mix in one glamorous Australian, Ace, who has all the right connections, a history with Luke and an eager for Sienna and surely sparks will fly.
See, what I mean about it sounding pretty good as a synopsis. The initial plotting is slow and a little boring as all we seem to do is be treated to a series of Sienna's lists (a girl that's good on the organisational front, how unique *coughs*) and her internal panic because she isn't engaged yet. Once Luke and Sienna meet up with Luke at Venice (I think that's what the posh niterie was called but I haven't got the will to go back and check) then all best are off. Sadly everything that happens from this point on is neither a surprise nor that interesting - I mean we know what the genre demands from it's authors and it fulfills that criteria but in such a way as it doesn't engage you.
The characters are all really flat. Sienna has the most input to her psyche but comes across as deeply unlikeable. A bit of a Pollyanna in the beginning and then a wet lettuce when she finds out the truth about Luke. There are glimpses of steel in her backbone at the events but not enough to make her believable. Everyone else is just a little bit of a pastiche of a person.
In my opinion this is definitely one to forget - although, if you want something to read on the commute that will fill a few minutes and you don't have to engage a brain cell to keep up with the plot and the people then this would fill that slot. You certainly won't miss your stop.
The basis of the plot is that Sienna is working for an Event Planner and has ended up more or less running the whole show with her boss just dropping in for a couple of hours a week to check their plans and then leaving the team to get on with it. So, she has decided to go out on her own and set up her own Event Planning business with her colleague Craig. She has been with Luke for 10 months but he is suddenly becoming distant, he is citing business meetings and trying to snare a new client for his brother's (mat have been brother-in-law) Advertising Agency. This sets us firmly against a series of glamorous private events and extremely glamorous personal events arranged for baby showers, birthdays and engagements of Sienna's closest friends. Mix in one glamorous Australian, Ace, who has all the right connections, a history with Luke and an eager for Sienna and surely sparks will fly.
See, what I mean about it sounding pretty good as a synopsis. The initial plotting is slow and a little boring as all we seem to do is be treated to a series of Sienna's lists (a girl that's good on the organisational front, how unique *coughs*) and her internal panic because she isn't engaged yet. Once Luke and Sienna meet up with Luke at Venice (I think that's what the posh niterie was called but I haven't got the will to go back and check) then all best are off. Sadly everything that happens from this point on is neither a surprise nor that interesting - I mean we know what the genre demands from it's authors and it fulfills that criteria but in such a way as it doesn't engage you.
The characters are all really flat. Sienna has the most input to her psyche but comes across as deeply unlikeable. A bit of a Pollyanna in the beginning and then a wet lettuce when she finds out the truth about Luke. There are glimpses of steel in her backbone at the events but not enough to make her believable. Everyone else is just a little bit of a pastiche of a person.
In my opinion this is definitely one to forget - although, if you want something to read on the commute that will fill a few minutes and you don't have to engage a brain cell to keep up with the plot and the people then this would fill that slot. You certainly won't miss your stop.
May 10, 2016
An Event to Remember or Forget is an entertaining chick lit / romantic comedy story that will keep you in stitches!
In An Event to Remember or Forget, the first book of the Event To Remember series, author Melissa Baldwin weaves a sassy tale that follows the event planning and romantic trials and tribulations of Sienna Harris.
Set in Southern California and told in the first person narrative, the reader follows event planner Sienna Harris as her plans to finish up her duties at Carrie's Classic Events and launch her own company, Sheer Happiness Events, go awry when she has issues with her always unavailable boss, society maven Carrie Anderstone, intertwined with fighting her relationship doubts with her boyfriend Luke, especially when she unexpectedly finds herself attracted to his arch nemesis, handsome Australian businessman Ace Eckelund.
This was such a fun book to read, it had a great mixture of drama, humor, and romance, that easily kept me engaged and laughing as I followed the unfolding of Sienna's story. Anyone can relate to the craziness surrounding event planning and how the best laid plans can unexpectedly go awry, especially when romance issues are added into the mix. There are lot of laugh-out-loud moments and surprising twist and turns: from her obsessive daily to-do-lists, to her romance troubles, to her determination to follow through on her plans for an important charity event that will help launch her own company, to her comedic interactions with best friends Madison, Abby, and Craig. Nothing is going to keep this sassy lady from achieving her dreams! I can't wait to see what new adventures await Sienna, Madison, Abby, and Craig in Wedding Haters, the second book in the series.
An Event to Remember or Forget is a fast paced and thoroughly enjoyable romantic comedy that will leave a smile on your face.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
In An Event to Remember or Forget, the first book of the Event To Remember series, author Melissa Baldwin weaves a sassy tale that follows the event planning and romantic trials and tribulations of Sienna Harris.
Set in Southern California and told in the first person narrative, the reader follows event planner Sienna Harris as her plans to finish up her duties at Carrie's Classic Events and launch her own company, Sheer Happiness Events, go awry when she has issues with her always unavailable boss, society maven Carrie Anderstone, intertwined with fighting her relationship doubts with her boyfriend Luke, especially when she unexpectedly finds herself attracted to his arch nemesis, handsome Australian businessman Ace Eckelund.
This was such a fun book to read, it had a great mixture of drama, humor, and romance, that easily kept me engaged and laughing as I followed the unfolding of Sienna's story. Anyone can relate to the craziness surrounding event planning and how the best laid plans can unexpectedly go awry, especially when romance issues are added into the mix. There are lot of laugh-out-loud moments and surprising twist and turns: from her obsessive daily to-do-lists, to her romance troubles, to her determination to follow through on her plans for an important charity event that will help launch her own company, to her comedic interactions with best friends Madison, Abby, and Craig. Nothing is going to keep this sassy lady from achieving her dreams! I can't wait to see what new adventures await Sienna, Madison, Abby, and Craig in Wedding Haters, the second book in the series.
An Event to Remember or Forget is a fast paced and thoroughly enjoyable romantic comedy that will leave a smile on your face.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
September 17, 2014
The book is written in a light tone. One that has sarcasm and humour. You have Sienna who loves her work but not so much the boss and the treatment from her boss. She's conflicted about leaving until events show the true face of her bass Carrie. You have Luke Sienna's boyfriend who has some unresolved issues with people in the past and within himself. He is afraid of failure and afraid to achieve something on his own. He feels the need to lie and control because his fear drives him to a point of despair. He is a weak man who hasn't figured out himself or his strengths.
Their lives are busy and they become distant. At this time a blast from Luke's past shows up and puts a whirlwind in their relationship. Ace the man who stole something from luke in the past irks Luke to no end. Meanwhile Sienna and him become friends and find themselves desiring each other. Respectful of her relationship, Ace and Sienna table their attraction and help one another in business and friendship. Sienna sees there are good guys out there without motives and Ace sees there are women who truly care and are faithful. One night during the biggest moment of Carrie's career things change. All those times Luke hasn't been there, his secret business meetings everything is figured out and comes crashing down on Carrie. She than realizes she is a strong person who can stand on her own and does. She takes the bull by the horns and barrels head first into life. Slowly coming out of her feeling that she needs a man to be happy, she realizes being herself and finding peace within is what she needs and suddenly is thankful for that. when this occurs good things begin to surface. She finds herself, her confidence and her new venture is going strong.
A fun book with snarkiness and some fun sarcarsm that will have you smile throughout as you see a woman learn who she is and what she truly wants for herself.
Their lives are busy and they become distant. At this time a blast from Luke's past shows up and puts a whirlwind in their relationship. Ace the man who stole something from luke in the past irks Luke to no end. Meanwhile Sienna and him become friends and find themselves desiring each other. Respectful of her relationship, Ace and Sienna table their attraction and help one another in business and friendship. Sienna sees there are good guys out there without motives and Ace sees there are women who truly care and are faithful. One night during the biggest moment of Carrie's career things change. All those times Luke hasn't been there, his secret business meetings everything is figured out and comes crashing down on Carrie. She than realizes she is a strong person who can stand on her own and does. She takes the bull by the horns and barrels head first into life. Slowly coming out of her feeling that she needs a man to be happy, she realizes being herself and finding peace within is what she needs and suddenly is thankful for that. when this occurs good things begin to surface. She finds herself, her confidence and her new venture is going strong.
A fun book with snarkiness and some fun sarcarsm that will have you smile throughout as you see a woman learn who she is and what she truly wants for herself.
October 5, 2014
Sienna has a job she loves and a loving boyfriend. Well, kind of. Her job situation is not the best. She works for a rich socialite that hardly does any of the work, and Sienna's boyfriend is less than attentive most of the time. Sienna is getting ready to break out on her own though by forming her own company. She just has one last big event to plan. It turns out though that this may be the toughest event of all to plan. Add in drama with her boyfriend in the form of a very attractive old rival, and Sienna may have more on her plate than she can handle.
This was a super cute book. It was just fluffy and fun. Sienna is a great character. No matter what happens she handles it with calm. That's not to say she doesn't get emotional because she does, it's just that she never wallows in the bad. Sienna is totally someone you'd want to be friends with because she lifts up people and quickly owns up to her mistakes. The only thing you could question is why she is still with her boyfriend. He is horribly inattentive and forgetful. However Sienna is nothing if not loyal. That's admirable.
There a bit of a twist in the story that is not too hard to figure out because plenty of clues are dropped. That doesn't make the reveal have any less impact though. Oh, and there's also the handsome Ace to talk about. I love the maturity that both Ace and Sienna have. They don't try to hide things and actively hash things out. How refreshing. The ending of the book was very unexpected to me. I did love it though. It stuck when the tone of the book and Sienna's true character. This is a fun and fast read that will entertain.
Book provided for review.
This was a super cute book. It was just fluffy and fun. Sienna is a great character. No matter what happens she handles it with calm. That's not to say she doesn't get emotional because she does, it's just that she never wallows in the bad. Sienna is totally someone you'd want to be friends with because she lifts up people and quickly owns up to her mistakes. The only thing you could question is why she is still with her boyfriend. He is horribly inattentive and forgetful. However Sienna is nothing if not loyal. That's admirable.
There a bit of a twist in the story that is not too hard to figure out because plenty of clues are dropped. That doesn't make the reveal have any less impact though. Oh, and there's also the handsome Ace to talk about. I love the maturity that both Ace and Sienna have. They don't try to hide things and actively hash things out. How refreshing. The ending of the book was very unexpected to me. I did love it though. It stuck when the tone of the book and Sienna's true character. This is a fun and fast read that will entertain.
Book provided for review.
September 15, 2014
4 STARS
An Event to Remember… or Forget by Melissa Baldwin is a romantic comedy or chick lit. Some places the book took me I could see where it was taking me others was a surprise. The ending was a surprise but fit the book and had a good message and attitude. This was a clean read. I liked Sienna and her friends and co-workers for the most part. Some of the characters we were not supposed to like what they did.
Sienna Harris is a event planner. She is almost ready for her to take a risk and start her own company. I like that she is not working on her company while she is still at Carrie's Classic Events. She is waiting till after her biggest event goes off. Sienna has been dating Luke for ten months. Her friends don't like him.
Sienna and Luke are both tempted by different things. It is their choices what to do with the temptations. There always choices to be made about how we will act with good or bad events.
Sienna is making excuses for Luke's behavior with everyone. She ignores the red flags. Everyone had opinions about Sienna's choices. I like how she calls her parents as sounding board. I was rooting for things to go right again in her life.
You get drawn into Sienna Harris life and what is going on with her friends. The cookies her roommate makes made me want to try some.
I would read another book by Melissa Barton in the future.
I received this ebook for free and In return I agreed to give honest review and be part of An Event to Remember or Forget blog tour.
An Event to Remember… or Forget by Melissa Baldwin is a romantic comedy or chick lit. Some places the book took me I could see where it was taking me others was a surprise. The ending was a surprise but fit the book and had a good message and attitude. This was a clean read. I liked Sienna and her friends and co-workers for the most part. Some of the characters we were not supposed to like what they did.
Sienna Harris is a event planner. She is almost ready for her to take a risk and start her own company. I like that she is not working on her company while she is still at Carrie's Classic Events. She is waiting till after her biggest event goes off. Sienna has been dating Luke for ten months. Her friends don't like him.
Sienna and Luke are both tempted by different things. It is their choices what to do with the temptations. There always choices to be made about how we will act with good or bad events.
Sienna is making excuses for Luke's behavior with everyone. She ignores the red flags. Everyone had opinions about Sienna's choices. I like how she calls her parents as sounding board. I was rooting for things to go right again in her life.
You get drawn into Sienna Harris life and what is going on with her friends. The cookies her roommate makes made me want to try some.
I would read another book by Melissa Barton in the future.
I received this ebook for free and In return I agreed to give honest review and be part of An Event to Remember or Forget blog tour.
October 31, 2014
Does anyone else ever have characters they love to hate? I felt like this one had a few and some of them were surprising--not who I expected to hate. For me, personally, the story was a little hard to get into because it was in first person, present tense. I'm just not used to reading books that way--as though it's happening right at the moment. Once I adjusted, it was fine and I really got into it.
Sienna is a woman who is basically running the event planning company that she works for and has a devil of a boss. She is very high-strung, yet very good at what she does. She has a plan and desperately wants everything to go according to plan and to fall in place just as it should. Nothing ever works out that perfectly, as she soon learns.
Sienna is so put together and smart, yet very clueless and frustrating in some ways. It seems that most of the "love to hate" characters are very close to her and she lets them walk all over her. It was great to see her take a stand and be strong. I loved the friendship that Sienna has with her besties--Abby and Madison. She also has a great working relationship with Craig and it was fun to see the banter.
Content: moderate language; no violence; mild romance. Clean for an older reader.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
Sienna is a woman who is basically running the event planning company that she works for and has a devil of a boss. She is very high-strung, yet very good at what she does. She has a plan and desperately wants everything to go according to plan and to fall in place just as it should. Nothing ever works out that perfectly, as she soon learns.
Sienna is so put together and smart, yet very clueless and frustrating in some ways. It seems that most of the "love to hate" characters are very close to her and she lets them walk all over her. It was great to see her take a stand and be strong. I loved the friendship that Sienna has with her besties--Abby and Madison. She also has a great working relationship with Craig and it was fun to see the banter.
Content: moderate language; no violence; mild romance. Clean for an older reader.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
August 3, 2020
This is a very forgettable book. Then again, I'm writing a review 3 months after finishing it and it still is leaving a bitter taste in my mouth. Also wondering what made it worth the two stars...that was me three months ago, so who knows. The characters yell a lot in this book. A LOT. It makes me wonder why the author doesn't know any other words besides yell. There were a few screams and a shriek. I think a thesaurus would have been a nice addition.
I now realize I don't actually remember what the book was about. I remember she's an event planner. And she meets a hot guy. But she is unsure if she can date said hot guy. And her boyfriend is cheating on her with her boss which was extremely obvious. And he was an asshole. Did she end up with the hot guy? Probably but I don't actually remember. So basically, there's a lot of yelling and pettiness in this book.
I now realize I don't actually remember what the book was about. I remember she's an event planner. And she meets a hot guy. But she is unsure if she can date said hot guy. And her boyfriend is cheating on her with her boss which was extremely obvious. And he was an asshole. Did she end up with the hot guy? Probably but I don't actually remember. So basically, there's a lot of yelling and pettiness in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2015
This was one of those books you just can’t put down and get lost into the story.
Sienna is a hard working woman. She is planning on starting her own business. Everything in her life is just as she planned, except for her love life. Her boyfriend Luke is not always emotionally available.
Carrie is her boss in name only but Sienna is running the company. The story leads up to a very big important event in Sienna’s career. Sienna receives the shock of her life that night.
I personally felt for Sienna on the love life side of the story. I know what she was dealing with from personal experience.
I loved the character of her co-worker Craig. He sounds like a fun guy to hang out with.
You’ll love this book. It’s a fun easy read.
Sienna is a hard working woman. She is planning on starting her own business. Everything in her life is just as she planned, except for her love life. Her boyfriend Luke is not always emotionally available.
Carrie is her boss in name only but Sienna is running the company. The story leads up to a very big important event in Sienna’s career. Sienna receives the shock of her life that night.
I personally felt for Sienna on the love life side of the story. I know what she was dealing with from personal experience.
I loved the character of her co-worker Craig. He sounds like a fun guy to hang out with.
You’ll love this book. It’s a fun easy read.
September 15, 2014
For every bit I wasn't sure about or didn't like there was something I liked about this book. I didn't have any trouble with the actual reading as it's been edited pretty well. Some characters I liked, others I didn't. This made it hard to enjoy the whole read. Even so this was a fun book and an easy read. Review by C.S. An evaluation copy was provided by I Am A Reader in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2015
So, I don't usually read many books from this genre, I will admit, but I thought that this was a really fun read. It had me going back for more which is always one of my key determining factors for giving a book high reviews. The plot is fun and the characters are relatable. This is a perfect "escape" book and would be a nice addition to add to a summer or vacation reading list. Nice job Melissa! :-)
January 26, 2018
Definitely an event to forget. It was kind of cute, but very repetitive and lacking real character depth. I’m sure I read more often about spin class, designer cookies, and outfit choices than about the main character’s love interest. It was definitely a “what did I just spend my time reading?” feeling when I finished.
July 14, 2014
An Event to Remember...or Forget
I couldn't stop reading this book. It was so good! Lots of twists, fun.
Get it now While you can!!
I couldn't stop reading this book. It was so good! Lots of twists, fun.
Get it now While you can!!
March 18, 2015
Cute, fun read.
July 17, 2016
It was ok. Predictable chick lit.
August 30, 2020
Not a big fan of this book. The dialogue is stilted and sounds unnatural (even when talking informally, people in their 20s hardly ever use contractions). t’s also very superficial and encourages women to be obsessed with their weight and looks (at one point, the protagonist actually worries about whether eating some snacks from a minibar will prevent her from fitting into a dress a few hours later). I really wish there was less emphasis on constant thinness & looks (the 27-year-old main character also gets Botox, of course). Kind of degrading to women, and the characters sort of blur together, with very little character development or substance to the characters. Very repetitious—the same joke about the name “Ace” is told ad nauseum. The thin plot is obvious, the book is predictably boring, and I’m not sure what qualities are supposed to endear us to the main character. There’s far too much hyperbole, and in fact, this character is someone who would probably be greatly disliked in real life—she has a reliable job, disposable income, great looking men competing for her attention, great friends, a successful business, perfect parents, etc, but we’re supposed to feel terrible for her. This author also stigmatizes mental health, making a joke about whether a character “took a cap of Xanax,” and acting like her character’s work stresses (oh no..she has an unpleasant boss!!!) have given her “some of that PTSD.” Please. People who actually suffer don’t need to be trivialized this way. They even seem to think the idea of possibly seeing a therapist is just hilarious and frequently make stigmatizing remarks about mental health. Sienna’s life may not be 100% perfect, but it sounds about 99% better than most people’s, and this book is largely a poorly-written diatribe. Yes, she has a difficult boss and an unfaithful boyfriend—these are not life-threatening emergencies that are “some of that PTSD.” I guess we are supposed to like Sienna because she’s pretty? A good planner? Good at rationalizing caloric intake & obsessing over diet, exercise, & weight? Owns expensive shoes? This book is a disservice to women. You can write something light-hearted without reinforcing stereotypes or unreasonable thoughts about weight/appearance that have destroyed many a self-esteem or led to eating disorders. I watched a close friend grapple with bulimia and feeling unattractive. She would never have found this book funny or anything but another way of telling her that she had no value if she didn’t look like Barbie. Even the attraction between Sienna and Ace has little to no basis in substance. They appear to be physically attracted to each other, but this is as deep as it gets: she helps him shop, choosing a personalized photo frame (oh, so creative!) for his mother. Gee, that must have made his heart go pitty pat. Save yourself the time and read something else—something that maybe won’t make you feel like only perfect-looking people succeed. It’s nonsense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2020
Another bargain bin purchase that I didn’t know anything about before reading. One of the things that I didn’t realize is that this is a series.
Sienna works for an event planner. She has a boyfriend of ten months that none of her friends seem to like. And her boss spends all her life gallivanting around taking the credit for her employees' hard work. For some time, Sienna has planned to open her firm taking one of her colleagues with her. But then she receives a shock during one of the biggest events of her life that will endanger this future.
This series provided a couple of firsts for me and not in a good way. In fantasy series, it often happens that the author doesn’t know how to continue his story. Due to pressure from his publisher and the fans, they often publish books that don’t advance the plot, so-called fillers. Not only did I realize through this series that this phenomenon isn’t limited to fantasy, but that it could happen in the first book.
The synopsis talks about the shock of her life. What it doesn’t tell you is that this shock doesn’t happen until the very end of the book. Soon afterward follows an incredibly abrupt ending in the form of an epilogue, which leads to the next book. Here is the thing. There isn’t enough story to fill one book and certainly not two.
The reader sees the shock coming a mile away. And while it is instantly clear why Nicole, the personal assistant, would want to quit, it isn’t for Sienna. Carrie is never there. Sienna is in full control and very well paid as she can afford Jimmy Chos. So the little story there is isn’t very well told.
There is no way that I’m going to read a second one, even if it is free.
Sienna works for an event planner. She has a boyfriend of ten months that none of her friends seem to like. And her boss spends all her life gallivanting around taking the credit for her employees' hard work. For some time, Sienna has planned to open her firm taking one of her colleagues with her. But then she receives a shock during one of the biggest events of her life that will endanger this future.
This series provided a couple of firsts for me and not in a good way. In fantasy series, it often happens that the author doesn’t know how to continue his story. Due to pressure from his publisher and the fans, they often publish books that don’t advance the plot, so-called fillers. Not only did I realize through this series that this phenomenon isn’t limited to fantasy, but that it could happen in the first book.
The synopsis talks about the shock of her life. What it doesn’t tell you is that this shock doesn’t happen until the very end of the book. Soon afterward follows an incredibly abrupt ending in the form of an epilogue, which leads to the next book. Here is the thing. There isn’t enough story to fill one book and certainly not two.
The reader sees the shock coming a mile away. And while it is instantly clear why Nicole, the personal assistant, would want to quit, it isn’t for Sienna. Carrie is never there. Sienna is in full control and very well paid as she can afford Jimmy Chos. So the little story there is isn’t very well told.
There is no way that I’m going to read a second one, even if it is free.
April 22, 2019
Oof.
I wish I could forget I read this. Honestly, I do, and I probably will in about two days. The story was incredibly predictable, the main conflict was so obvious and not even cleverly done. The writing is atrocious. I commend the author for writing a novel, getting it published, etc, because I understand that is not an easy task. But, boy oh boy was the writing awful. It felt like I was reading a story written by a sophomore in high school. The writing has no real flow and the dialogue is TERRIBLE, stilted and unrealistic.
It feels like half the story is spent having our narrator, Sienna, checking things off her to do list and talking about eating cookies and her shoes. I know I'm supposed to be rooting for Sienna, but I found her unrealistic for some reason. She just didn't feel like a fully fleshed out character. She had a friendship with her colleague, Craig, but anytime he tried to be a friend to her she was rude to him. She is generally kind of rude to everyone, except Ace (another character in the novel). The side characters are just as undeveloped, if not more so, than Sienna. Their character traits were being engaged to a comedian and being a pregnant teacher. They are supposedly her best friends, but we know practically nothing about them or even how they came to be friends.
I could go on for a while, but I don't want to be too harsh. Suffice it to say, I would not recommend this book to anyone and I certainly will not be reading any more of this authors work. Glad this was freebie.
I wish I could forget I read this. Honestly, I do, and I probably will in about two days. The story was incredibly predictable, the main conflict was so obvious and not even cleverly done. The writing is atrocious. I commend the author for writing a novel, getting it published, etc, because I understand that is not an easy task. But, boy oh boy was the writing awful. It felt like I was reading a story written by a sophomore in high school. The writing has no real flow and the dialogue is TERRIBLE, stilted and unrealistic.
It feels like half the story is spent having our narrator, Sienna, checking things off her to do list and talking about eating cookies and her shoes. I know I'm supposed to be rooting for Sienna, but I found her unrealistic for some reason. She just didn't feel like a fully fleshed out character. She had a friendship with her colleague, Craig, but anytime he tried to be a friend to her she was rude to him. She is generally kind of rude to everyone, except Ace (another character in the novel). The side characters are just as undeveloped, if not more so, than Sienna. Their character traits were being engaged to a comedian and being a pregnant teacher. They are supposedly her best friends, but we know practically nothing about them or even how they came to be friends.
I could go on for a while, but I don't want to be too harsh. Suffice it to say, I would not recommend this book to anyone and I certainly will not be reading any more of this authors work. Glad this was freebie.
February 9, 2018
Sienna is an event planner working for a careless, self-absorbed socialite on the path to stepping out on her own. She's in a stable relationship but feels it lagging, which leaves her feeling like something is "off." It doesn't help that her closest friends are getting married and "growing up," leading her to feel pressured to make her relationship work even when she feels sparks with someone else. Over a few months, Sienna and friends go on a rollercoaster ride of circumstance and emotion.
I thought this book was really cute! Sienna at times annoyed me with her adamance to stay committed to Luke. She seemed to stay with him on principle more than because of her feelings for him. That being said, it was easy to connect with the character of Sienna as well as other characters. I felt like they could have been real people. They had well-defined personalities with realistic lives.
Overall, the book was good. It's the beginning of a 3-book series that I intend to finish!
I thought this book was really cute! Sienna at times annoyed me with her adamance to stay committed to Luke. She seemed to stay with him on principle more than because of her feelings for him. That being said, it was easy to connect with the character of Sienna as well as other characters. I felt like they could have been real people. They had well-defined personalities with realistic lives.
Overall, the book was good. It's the beginning of a 3-book series that I intend to finish!
October 7, 2018
It sounded like fun chick lit, but in the end, I felt I was reading a story intended for a TV rom-com, with more ‘com’ than ‘rom’. Just sweet enough to watch until the end, but that you forget about right away.
Those who think they’re going to read a romance novel will be disappointed. It’s more a story about a 27-year-old event planner “adventure” through her life.
Maybe it’s because it’s written at the first person in the present tense and the narrator is describing the events, but the reading lacked fluidity, it was like I read a list of paragraphs.
Moreover, she’s in her late twenties, is dating for ten months, expect marriage from him but they never sleep together? Is it a book written for teenage girls? It’s not that I need explicit sex scenes, but here it felt that they didn’t have sex at all and they’re barely kissing. I wish I could feel some attraction with any of her love interests. I even wondered if they were abstinent. No wonder their relationship isn’t working, they live a completely separate life. Their relationship felt totally aseptic.
For sure, I won’t read another book of this series.
Those who think they’re going to read a romance novel will be disappointed. It’s more a story about a 27-year-old event planner “adventure” through her life.
Maybe it’s because it’s written at the first person in the present tense and the narrator is describing the events, but the reading lacked fluidity, it was like I read a list of paragraphs.
Moreover, she’s in her late twenties, is dating for ten months, expect marriage from him but they never sleep together? Is it a book written for teenage girls? It’s not that I need explicit sex scenes, but here it felt that they didn’t have sex at all and they’re barely kissing. I wish I could feel some attraction with any of her love interests. I even wondered if they were abstinent. No wonder their relationship isn’t working, they live a completely separate life. Their relationship felt totally aseptic.
For sure, I won’t read another book of this series.
June 29, 2017
3.5 stars. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book that I picked up on a whim. Maybe it's because one of my dream jobs would be event planning? Sienna is an event planner soon to leave her current company and start her own one. She's mostly happy with her boyfriend, Luke, although he always puts his career first. One night, she and Luke run into his old roommate, Ace. Sienna can't deny the attraction she feels to save, especially when they keep running into each other. In the meantime, Sienna's friends are getting pregnant and engaged, making her wonder where he relationship with Luke is headed.
This was just such a fun read. Sienna is a likable main character and I loved reading about her job. The book did have some awkward, stilted sentences. Not the most polished writing style, but a good plot and characters. I would definitely recommend it to chick lit fans!
This was just such a fun read. Sienna is a likable main character and I loved reading about her job. The book did have some awkward, stilted sentences. Not the most polished writing style, but a good plot and characters. I would definitely recommend it to chick lit fans!
August 1, 2018
This is my first time diving into Melissa Baldwin's books, so I really did not know what to expect.
I like the story and the characters are fun. Sienna Harris is an amazing character that sometimes comes off stiff because she makes to-do lists she absolutely follows. Madison is quirky and just what you would expect from a best friend/roommate. I don't know how to feel about Ace though. I feel he's too good to be true, but that doesn't mean I don't like him. Luke Price, now that is the kind of boyfriend that someone wouldn't want to have. I absolutely adore Craig though!
The only downside for me is that the 'twist' could have been seen from miles away. I also sometimes think that there are thoughts and comments that are entirely not needed in the book but put into there to make the word count.
Overall, it was a nice read to pass the time. Nothing too noteworthy.
I like the story and the characters are fun. Sienna Harris is an amazing character that sometimes comes off stiff because she makes to-do lists she absolutely follows. Madison is quirky and just what you would expect from a best friend/roommate. I don't know how to feel about Ace though. I feel he's too good to be true, but that doesn't mean I don't like him. Luke Price, now that is the kind of boyfriend that someone wouldn't want to have. I absolutely adore Craig though!
The only downside for me is that the 'twist' could have been seen from miles away. I also sometimes think that there are thoughts and comments that are entirely not needed in the book but put into there to make the word count.
Overall, it was a nice read to pass the time. Nothing too noteworthy.
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