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He's Cancelled
When he proposed, I had to pinch myself. Up until then, his most romantic gesture was buying me a 128-piece tool kit.
It’s normal to get cold feet, right? But what about a case of frozen get-me-the-heck-out-of-here feet?
When Natalie’s boyfriend gets down on one knee (even if it’s because he trips and drops the ring) it’s meant to be the start of their happy ever after. But planning a wedding to Archie feels like she’s competing in the Hunger Games…
She’s up against a mother-in-law who enforces a pre-wedding diet with portions you need a microscope for.
She’s cornered by a bridesmaid-zilla sister-in-law who forces her old wedding dress on Nat, featuring satin bows, way too much tulle and a bodice that Nat doesn’t even have the boobs for.
She fends off a best man who tries to kiss her by kneeing him in the crotch.
And she has to defeat a pushy wedding planner who insists on peacocks, doves and pink flamingos at the ceremony.
Nat would wear her battle scars with pride if Archie was by her side. But her fiancé is missing in action, refusing to help her deal with his diva family and going AWOL on the stag do. With just weeks to go, she might have to do the unthinkable… Is it too late to cancel? And if she’s not Archie’s bride-to-be then who on earth is she?
A totally addictive romantic comedy for anyone who has a phobia of bridezillas and who makes the happiest memories during Happy Hour. Fans of rom coms by Sophie Kinsella, Shari Low and Mhairi McFarlane, and TV shows like Emily in Paris will be glued to the pages of this feel-good page-turner.
It’s normal to get cold feet, right? But what about a case of frozen get-me-the-heck-out-of-here feet?
When Natalie’s boyfriend gets down on one knee (even if it’s because he trips and drops the ring) it’s meant to be the start of their happy ever after. But planning a wedding to Archie feels like she’s competing in the Hunger Games…
She’s up against a mother-in-law who enforces a pre-wedding diet with portions you need a microscope for.
She’s cornered by a bridesmaid-zilla sister-in-law who forces her old wedding dress on Nat, featuring satin bows, way too much tulle and a bodice that Nat doesn’t even have the boobs for.
She fends off a best man who tries to kiss her by kneeing him in the crotch.
And she has to defeat a pushy wedding planner who insists on peacocks, doves and pink flamingos at the ceremony.
Nat would wear her battle scars with pride if Archie was by her side. But her fiancé is missing in action, refusing to help her deal with his diva family and going AWOL on the stag do. With just weeks to go, she might have to do the unthinkable… Is it too late to cancel? And if she’s not Archie’s bride-to-be then who on earth is she?
A totally addictive romantic comedy for anyone who has a phobia of bridezillas and who makes the happiest memories during Happy Hour. Fans of rom coms by Sophie Kinsella, Shari Low and Mhairi McFarlane, and TV shows like Emily in Paris will be glued to the pages of this feel-good page-turner.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2021
511 people are currently reading
687 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Ranald
25 books568 followersSophie Ranald is the youngest of five sisters. She was born in Zimbabwe and lived in South Africa until an acute case of itchy feet brought her to London in her mid-20s.
As an editor for a customer publishing agency, Sophie developed her fiction-writing skills describing holidays to places she’d never visited. In 2011, she decided to disregard all the good advice given to aspiring novelists and attempt to write full-time. After one false start, It Would Be Wrong to Steal My Sister’s Boyfriend (Wouldn’t It?) seemed to write itself.
Sophie also writes for magazines and online about food, fashion and running. She lives in south-east London with her amazing partner Hopi and Purrs, their adorable little cat.
As an editor for a customer publishing agency, Sophie developed her fiction-writing skills describing holidays to places she’d never visited. In 2011, she decided to disregard all the good advice given to aspiring novelists and attempt to write full-time. After one false start, It Would Be Wrong to Steal My Sister’s Boyfriend (Wouldn’t It?) seemed to write itself.
Sophie also writes for magazines and online about food, fashion and running. She lives in south-east London with her amazing partner Hopi and Purrs, their adorable little cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
July 26, 2021
I received a free e-ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed the journey of this, mostly, but the ending was really not to my liking.
God, where do I even start. I put off reading this book for so long, and ended up starting it only when my copy was archiving within 48 hours. Just to tell you how unenthusiastic I was when after getting approved, I read the first chapter or two, and found it seriously wanting because I was in the mood for a romance, but these kind of second chance romances where we start out with an established relationship, either married or engaged, somehow end up disappointing me.
Case in point, A Second Hand Husband, which also had this setup, and also failed on a good ending. I think the main problem with both of these was that in showing how bad the love interests were in both of these books, and the MCs allowing it all and breaking up only when the story called for it, instead of the first 5 minutes where I would have wanted to break up, I ended up not wanting these love interests at all. Which is a shame, really, because both of these had great potential. Especially this one.
I really couldn't get onboard with Archie, especially with that 'event' that happened towards the end of the book to cause their breakup. If there's one thing that instantly puts me off a book, it's a lack of respect for any character, especially the love interests among themselves, and I don't know how much of a spoiler this is, but will never have a place in my favourite rom-coms.
I could have put up with anything, but that was just too much. Especially when they go on to not even have a discussion about it. And they don't even make it clear what exactly happened. I mean, I don't know about you, but jumping past a discussion, is there even was one, does not work for me. I don't even know what Natalie thought about Archie at that point, the same way I don't know whether that really happened or not, or whether there were even any redeeming qualities in him or not.
What made it even worse was the fact that Natalie tried to have a discussion about it, and about Billy, but Archie shut her down every single time. And then after whatever time that passed in the last few chapters, probably a few weeks, she just magically forgives him, which is not what I wanted. I wanted a full blown discussion about it if I had to forgive Archie, but since that didn't happen, here I am hating him.
Now, while that ending left me with a very bad taste in my mouth, there were a few redeeming qualities about this book. I love Sophie Ranald's writing (this is my first book by her), and I loved the whole wedding planning. I really felt Natalie's struggles, even though I felt she should have stood up to her in-laws earlier, I couldn't completely fault her for not doing it.
I loved how our MC was a physiotherapist, that's an occupation I haven't read that much about, so insights into it had me intrigued. We got to see how they live their lives, how they help their patients, and I really enjoyed those portions.
The side characters were alright, but I didn't like how awful her to-be sister-in-law and mother-in-law were, and then they suddenly had this turnabout and they're nice, and like, that really didn't make any sense to me. There was no consistency that way.
The inclusion of the COVID pandemic was a bit of a mistake, I feel, or maybe just the execution of it. It was never explicitly mentioned that this was set in the beginning of 2020, so I just thought it was the late 2010s era that most rom-coms have going these days, in a pre-pandemic world, but at the end one of the characters was having a meltdown about masks and something, and again, I don't think COVID was mentioned explicitly, so I was really, really confused.
I felt like we should either have not included the pandemic, or mentioned it beforehand and in more detail so we were prepared for it, because by the end of this it just turned out to be a big slap in the face and really changed a lot of my mental world building for this.
Other than that, I just don't have anything to say. The journey was alright, and I mostly had a good time reading, but I did dislike quite a few bits too.
On the whole, an enjoyable read, but not without its faults (in my opinion). I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys second chance romances, doesn't have any issues with dubious stances on infidelity, enjoys wedding preparation antics, doesn't mind something set right before the pandemic (does this count as a trigger warning? I think it should), and enjoys a mostly light-hearted rom-com.
I enjoyed the journey of this, mostly, but the ending was really not to my liking.
God, where do I even start. I put off reading this book for so long, and ended up starting it only when my copy was archiving within 48 hours. Just to tell you how unenthusiastic I was when after getting approved, I read the first chapter or two, and found it seriously wanting because I was in the mood for a romance, but these kind of second chance romances where we start out with an established relationship, either married or engaged, somehow end up disappointing me.
Case in point, A Second Hand Husband, which also had this setup, and also failed on a good ending. I think the main problem with both of these was that in showing how bad the love interests were in both of these books, and the MCs allowing it all and breaking up only when the story called for it, instead of the first 5 minutes where I would have wanted to break up, I ended up not wanting these love interests at all. Which is a shame, really, because both of these had great potential. Especially this one.
I really couldn't get onboard with Archie, especially with that 'event' that happened towards the end of the book to cause their breakup. If there's one thing that instantly puts me off a book, it's a lack of respect for any character, especially the love interests among themselves, and I don't know how much of a spoiler this is, but will never have a place in my favourite rom-coms.
I could have put up with anything, but that was just too much. Especially when they go on to not even have a discussion about it. And they don't even make it clear what exactly happened. I mean, I don't know about you, but jumping past a discussion, is there even was one, does not work for me. I don't even know what Natalie thought about Archie at that point, the same way I don't know whether that really happened or not, or whether there were even any redeeming qualities in him or not.
What made it even worse was the fact that Natalie tried to have a discussion about it, and about Billy, but Archie shut her down every single time. And then after whatever time that passed in the last few chapters, probably a few weeks, she just magically forgives him, which is not what I wanted. I wanted a full blown discussion about it if I had to forgive Archie, but since that didn't happen, here I am hating him.
Now, while that ending left me with a very bad taste in my mouth, there were a few redeeming qualities about this book. I love Sophie Ranald's writing (this is my first book by her), and I loved the whole wedding planning. I really felt Natalie's struggles, even though I felt she should have stood up to her in-laws earlier, I couldn't completely fault her for not doing it.
I loved how our MC was a physiotherapist, that's an occupation I haven't read that much about, so insights into it had me intrigued. We got to see how they live their lives, how they help their patients, and I really enjoyed those portions.
The side characters were alright, but I didn't like how awful her to-be sister-in-law and mother-in-law were, and then they suddenly had this turnabout and they're nice, and like, that really didn't make any sense to me. There was no consistency that way.
The inclusion of the COVID pandemic was a bit of a mistake, I feel, or maybe just the execution of it. It was never explicitly mentioned that this was set in the beginning of 2020, so I just thought it was the late 2010s era that most rom-coms have going these days, in a pre-pandemic world, but at the end one of the characters was having a meltdown about masks and something, and again, I don't think COVID was mentioned explicitly, so I was really, really confused.
I felt like we should either have not included the pandemic, or mentioned it beforehand and in more detail so we were prepared for it, because by the end of this it just turned out to be a big slap in the face and really changed a lot of my mental world building for this.
Other than that, I just don't have anything to say. The journey was alright, and I mostly had a good time reading, but I did dislike quite a few bits too.
On the whole, an enjoyable read, but not without its faults (in my opinion). I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys second chance romances, doesn't have any issues with dubious stances on infidelity, enjoys wedding preparation antics, doesn't mind something set right before the pandemic (does this count as a trigger warning? I think it should), and enjoys a mostly light-hearted rom-com.
July 12, 2021
Not much to say about this one. I wish that the main character, Natalie, had been better. She was a doormat throughout the entire book and then just punts regarding having any real discussions with her boyfriend Archie. Reading about the wedding planning and everything that came with it was boring after a while too. I also agree with another reader that Archie's mother and one sister had a total 180 that didn't feel true based on what came before. I also think that the book just dragged for a bit here and there.
For fans of Ranald, make sure you read these in order, there are references to other characters from prior books. Archie was introduced in Just Saying, so readers may be a bit familiar with him from that book. Natalie, a sporty young physiotherapist, is living with her boyfriend of a year, Archie. Natalie is happy, though at times frustrated with Archie's focus on his new business. Things change when Archie proposes to Natalie. All of a sudden Natalie is thrown into wedding planning with Archie's mother and sister due to Archie being too busy to get into the details. Natalie doesn't want a big wedding with all of the thrills, but she doesn't know how to say no. Until she starts to think about 'cancelling'. There's also subplots involving Natalie's grandfather and mother.
So Natalie is a doormat. Sorry, there's nothing more to say beyond that. She gets passive aggressive with Archie at times, but she won't stand up to Archie's mother and sister. And I have to say it drove me up the wall the first dozen times that Natalie says what she wants to Archie, but then meekly goes along with what Archie's mother wants. The wedding after a while sounds like a hellscape. One thing that I think Ranald shows clearly though is that Natalie and Archie have not been together long enough to even know what they other wants/does not want it seems. Archie is focused on his new business and growing it into a coffee ground business as well and Natalie is dealing with her mother and grandfather.
The writing was fine, the flow was off though. I think that the book started to just drag after a while and I just waited for things to come to a head.
What is weird about this setting though is that Ranald introduces COVID-19 to her book series. That throws a hitch into things and we get to see the immediate effects of things on England and then a few months into the pandemic.
For fans of Ranald, make sure you read these in order, there are references to other characters from prior books. Archie was introduced in Just Saying, so readers may be a bit familiar with him from that book. Natalie, a sporty young physiotherapist, is living with her boyfriend of a year, Archie. Natalie is happy, though at times frustrated with Archie's focus on his new business. Things change when Archie proposes to Natalie. All of a sudden Natalie is thrown into wedding planning with Archie's mother and sister due to Archie being too busy to get into the details. Natalie doesn't want a big wedding with all of the thrills, but she doesn't know how to say no. Until she starts to think about 'cancelling'. There's also subplots involving Natalie's grandfather and mother.
So Natalie is a doormat. Sorry, there's nothing more to say beyond that. She gets passive aggressive with Archie at times, but she won't stand up to Archie's mother and sister. And I have to say it drove me up the wall the first dozen times that Natalie says what she wants to Archie, but then meekly goes along with what Archie's mother wants. The wedding after a while sounds like a hellscape. One thing that I think Ranald shows clearly though is that Natalie and Archie have not been together long enough to even know what they other wants/does not want it seems. Archie is focused on his new business and growing it into a coffee ground business as well and Natalie is dealing with her mother and grandfather.
The writing was fine, the flow was off though. I think that the book started to just drag after a while and I just waited for things to come to a head.
What is weird about this setting though is that Ranald introduces COVID-19 to her book series. That throws a hitch into things and we get to see the immediate effects of things on England and then a few months into the pandemic.
June 22, 2021
When physiotherapist Nat says yes to boyfriend Archie’s unexpected proposal after just six months together she cannot possible foresee the ensuing chaos and drama that will result from saying that magical three letter word. Naively imagining they can have the no fuss,low key wedding they truly desire, a simple ceremony at the registry office followed by an intimate,cozy reception at their favourite local pub The Ginger Cat, Nat doesn’t bargain for the fact once their happy news reaches the ears of her future mother and sister in law, Yvonne and Daisy, all hell will let loose! One bridezilla-esque figure is bad enough but two?!?! The minute Archie slips a ring on her finger the bride to be unwillingly enters this bizarre exclusive club where tasting menus and whether or not to have scalloped or straight edges on the invitations is more crucial than easing lockdown restrictions! And to top it all when Natalie is at the hairdressers shortly after the couple’s announcement, a quiz in a bridal magazine asking the vital question “Are you truly ready to say I do?” catches her eye, immediately casting doubt in her mind about marrying Archie full stop. But she’s already hitched a ride on the wedding preparation carousel which is only going to spin faster and faster the nearer the big day approaches. Nat desperately wants to press the pause button before things spiral too far out of control but how can she do this without upsetting her future husband and in-laws??
I have never organised a wedding or been in Nat’s position but wedding day storylines always tickle my funny bone due to their absurdity, laugh out loud moments and often highly exaggerated characters. Sophie Ranald brings all that to the table in this entertaining, lighthearted, frivolously funny (not too heavy on the romance side) read. With characters ranging from the good to the bad to the downright ugly she balances her mischievous sense of humour with more poignant, heartfelt moments and I absolutely loved it!
The character everyone will love to hate is Yvonne McCoy, every daughter in law’s worst nightmare. Wealthy, entitled, glamorous and always counting the calories she seizes the opportunity to take full control of organising the kind of wedding so far removed from Nat and Archie’s original vision that you’d think the McCoy family were minor royalty. Aided and abetted by the previously jilted Daisy this mother of the groom is proceeding at full throttle, micromanaging in a way that not only exasperates the remarkably patient and accommodating Nat but introduces an element of conflict into what was a harmonious relationship with the not overly romantic Archie. However my favourite character has to be the practical, hard working sporty Natalie whose love for her mum and grandpa and interest in her friends lives makes her worth her weight in gold. It’s her concern over her grandpa’s failing health and absence of any romantic partner in her mum’s life that sets this warm, kind hearted (if not assertive enough!) woman head and shoulders above the more girly, privileged shopaholic that is Daisy. She might not be the most feminine of brides to be but Archie is one very lucky man, something he needs to be careful not to lose sight of given his increasingly laissez faire approach to the wedding preparations. Cancelling peacocks and flamingos may not be the only be the only things being given the heave ho!
Whilst the over the top humour is to be relished because who wants to miss the chance for a good giggle (?) it’s the heartwarming interactions between Nat and her grandpa plus his beloved feline companion Teresa that differentiates this novel from other like minded ones. These scenes definitely prompt the arrival of ‘aaahh how sweet’ feelings especially when the author mentions the dreaded C word (coronavirus). I couldn’t help wondering how this lovely, wise elderly gentleman would fare in the immediate future which made me ridiculously emotional! It’s a brave move introducing a modicum of reality into what I’d consider an extreme version of bride to be reality but it balances out the more ludicrous aspects of this novel. Featuring The Ginger Cat and Zoe from Sophie’s last novel is a nice touch. I also liked the way way each chapter is headed with another question from that damned quiz. Whoever wrote it has a lot to answer for! Sophie Ranald rounds off with an ending that almost feels as if you’ve come full circle but in a good, amusing way.
Having read numerous books this year in a similar vein I’d expect to find myself suffering from a severe bout of wedding day overindulgence but it would seem I haven’t reached my quota just yet! Despite my advancing age I haven’t outgrown my love for romcoms;if the past year is anything to go by they’re now my go to reads. After finishing this novel in one sitting I was convinced I’d read more Sophie Ranald books than I actually have but He’s Cancelled is only the second one I’ve picked up. Suffice to say I liked it just as much, if not more than Thank You Next. We all need an injection of comedy in our lives from time to time especially as flaming hot June is turning into a soggy depressing mess (at least in my part of the world!) so if you haven’t already discovered this author’s writing and fancy sampling some outrageous wedding preparation shenanigans then say I DO to He’s Cancelled. Perfect for fans of Katy Birchall’s The Secret Bridesmaid.
My thanks as always to the publisher Bookouture and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
I have never organised a wedding or been in Nat’s position but wedding day storylines always tickle my funny bone due to their absurdity, laugh out loud moments and often highly exaggerated characters. Sophie Ranald brings all that to the table in this entertaining, lighthearted, frivolously funny (not too heavy on the romance side) read. With characters ranging from the good to the bad to the downright ugly she balances her mischievous sense of humour with more poignant, heartfelt moments and I absolutely loved it!
The character everyone will love to hate is Yvonne McCoy, every daughter in law’s worst nightmare. Wealthy, entitled, glamorous and always counting the calories she seizes the opportunity to take full control of organising the kind of wedding so far removed from Nat and Archie’s original vision that you’d think the McCoy family were minor royalty. Aided and abetted by the previously jilted Daisy this mother of the groom is proceeding at full throttle, micromanaging in a way that not only exasperates the remarkably patient and accommodating Nat but introduces an element of conflict into what was a harmonious relationship with the not overly romantic Archie. However my favourite character has to be the practical, hard working sporty Natalie whose love for her mum and grandpa and interest in her friends lives makes her worth her weight in gold. It’s her concern over her grandpa’s failing health and absence of any romantic partner in her mum’s life that sets this warm, kind hearted (if not assertive enough!) woman head and shoulders above the more girly, privileged shopaholic that is Daisy. She might not be the most feminine of brides to be but Archie is one very lucky man, something he needs to be careful not to lose sight of given his increasingly laissez faire approach to the wedding preparations. Cancelling peacocks and flamingos may not be the only be the only things being given the heave ho!
Whilst the over the top humour is to be relished because who wants to miss the chance for a good giggle (?) it’s the heartwarming interactions between Nat and her grandpa plus his beloved feline companion Teresa that differentiates this novel from other like minded ones. These scenes definitely prompt the arrival of ‘aaahh how sweet’ feelings especially when the author mentions the dreaded C word (coronavirus). I couldn’t help wondering how this lovely, wise elderly gentleman would fare in the immediate future which made me ridiculously emotional! It’s a brave move introducing a modicum of reality into what I’d consider an extreme version of bride to be reality but it balances out the more ludicrous aspects of this novel. Featuring The Ginger Cat and Zoe from Sophie’s last novel is a nice touch. I also liked the way way each chapter is headed with another question from that damned quiz. Whoever wrote it has a lot to answer for! Sophie Ranald rounds off with an ending that almost feels as if you’ve come full circle but in a good, amusing way.
Having read numerous books this year in a similar vein I’d expect to find myself suffering from a severe bout of wedding day overindulgence but it would seem I haven’t reached my quota just yet! Despite my advancing age I haven’t outgrown my love for romcoms;if the past year is anything to go by they’re now my go to reads. After finishing this novel in one sitting I was convinced I’d read more Sophie Ranald books than I actually have but He’s Cancelled is only the second one I’ve picked up. Suffice to say I liked it just as much, if not more than Thank You Next. We all need an injection of comedy in our lives from time to time especially as flaming hot June is turning into a soggy depressing mess (at least in my part of the world!) so if you haven’t already discovered this author’s writing and fancy sampling some outrageous wedding preparation shenanigans then say I DO to He’s Cancelled. Perfect for fans of Katy Birchall’s The Secret Bridesmaid.
My thanks as always to the publisher Bookouture and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2021
This is my second Sophie Ranald book. The first one I read was a few months back now and it was 'Sorry Not Sorry' and it was just EVERYTHING I needed in that moment in time.
Nat is your everyday, girl next door type of woman. She has a job in the NHS, has a few close friends and lives with her boyfriend. Her character is well developed and I related to her on a few levels. This book visits the stress of wedding planning, especially when your partner doesn't seem to have time to have an input in anything!
However, I do feel as though at some point I felt as though the story was getting pretty samey and I just wanted it to cut to the point. I felt as though there was just something missing from this book. I didn't get the exact same lighthearted feeling I had with the authors previous book. But, that is not going to put me off picking up more of Sophie Ranald's work in the future!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Bookoture and Sophie Ranald for an arc of this in exchange for an honest review!
Nat is your everyday, girl next door type of woman. She has a job in the NHS, has a few close friends and lives with her boyfriend. Her character is well developed and I related to her on a few levels. This book visits the stress of wedding planning, especially when your partner doesn't seem to have time to have an input in anything!
However, I do feel as though at some point I felt as though the story was getting pretty samey and I just wanted it to cut to the point. I felt as though there was just something missing from this book. I didn't get the exact same lighthearted feeling I had with the authors previous book. But, that is not going to put me off picking up more of Sophie Ranald's work in the future!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Bookoture and Sophie Ranald for an arc of this in exchange for an honest review!
June 30, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, author Sophie Ranald, and Bookouture publishing for giving me a free arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3 stars
This was my third book by author Sophie Ranald. After reading, "Thank you, Next" and "No, We Can't Be Friends," She has been an author that I ask for arcs copies every time I see a new release available. While I have liked the last two books, this book fell a little short of my expectations.
When Natalie accepts her boyfriend's Archie's proposal after six months of dating, she decides to plan a simple wedding ceremony and reception at the local pub. But Archie's family is wealthy and offer to pay for the whole wedding. Natalie's wedding plans go out the window, when Archie's mother and Daisy, Archie's sister, begin to take over the wedding planning, in order to plan the best wedding. As the wedding day looms closer, the amount of invited guests have reached into the hundreds, the dress is puffy, and the wedding will be held in a stately house.
Will this be the wedding of Natalie's dream or her worst nightmare?
This book had no real purpose outside of showing the aggravations that come with planning your wedding vs the wedding your future in-laws want. Many of these characters were not likeable. Natalie was just complaining throughout the entire book about the lack of choices and voice she has in her wedding plans as well as the lack of support her partner Archie is giving her. Archie was just acting like a guy. He was always pushing off making choices in planning their wedding as well as giving Natalie the support she needed when dealing with his family especially his mother and sister. The only likeable character was Natalie's grandpa. I loved the support and advice he gave to Natalie throughout the story. There was very little I would consider romantic or comedic within this story. I would consider this book more of a contemporary fiction. The ending wrapped up the story lines well. I would like to read more books by this author in the future.
3 stars
This was my third book by author Sophie Ranald. After reading, "Thank you, Next" and "No, We Can't Be Friends," She has been an author that I ask for arcs copies every time I see a new release available. While I have liked the last two books, this book fell a little short of my expectations.
When Natalie accepts her boyfriend's Archie's proposal after six months of dating, she decides to plan a simple wedding ceremony and reception at the local pub. But Archie's family is wealthy and offer to pay for the whole wedding. Natalie's wedding plans go out the window, when Archie's mother and Daisy, Archie's sister, begin to take over the wedding planning, in order to plan the best wedding. As the wedding day looms closer, the amount of invited guests have reached into the hundreds, the dress is puffy, and the wedding will be held in a stately house.
Will this be the wedding of Natalie's dream or her worst nightmare?
This book had no real purpose outside of showing the aggravations that come with planning your wedding vs the wedding your future in-laws want. Many of these characters were not likeable. Natalie was just complaining throughout the entire book about the lack of choices and voice she has in her wedding plans as well as the lack of support her partner Archie is giving her. Archie was just acting like a guy. He was always pushing off making choices in planning their wedding as well as giving Natalie the support she needed when dealing with his family especially his mother and sister. The only likeable character was Natalie's grandpa. I loved the support and advice he gave to Natalie throughout the story. There was very little I would consider romantic or comedic within this story. I would consider this book more of a contemporary fiction. The ending wrapped up the story lines well. I would like to read more books by this author in the future.
Read
January 14, 2022This book was just ok from me. I love Sophie Ranald’s writing, and there were definitely funny parts that had me laughing. However, I just didn’t love the characters, which affected the entire book. They were selfish and manipulative at times and it wasn’t for me. 3 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 5, 2025
The blurb gave way too much of the story away. I doubt I would’ve finished this if I read it in print (instead of the audio I listened to)
June 4, 2021
** Spoilers ahead **
While there are some high points to this novel, ultimately it's not one that I would recommend or want to revisit.
First, the highlights. There's an authenticity to the relationship between Natalie and Archie - things aren't perfect, they've both got their flaws, but they're figuring it out. I found myself rooting for them throughout the book, and appreciated the realism in their portrayal.
I also loved Natalie's family. Her relationship with her mom warmed my heart, and I adored Robin, Natalie's grandfather. Archie's relationship with Robin, in particular, caused a sweet little "awwww" pang every time we got a glimpse of their dynamic.
My big challenge came with Archie's family, notably Yvonne and Daisy - the villains in this tale. They become increasingly unhinged in their approach to wedding planning, but then do a complete 180 - seemingly out of nowhere - and become supportive future in-laws, begging forgiveness for their actions and supporting Natalie's wishes. It honestly gave me whiplash, and while I understand that ultimately Natalie was an unreliable narrator who had made them out to be worse than they actually were, I still felt that the shift was too sudden and really detracted from the end of the book.
Finally, I feel like the whole book was longer than it needed to be. It drags on in excruciating detail, then speeds through the resolution. That, combined with throwing in the COVID lockdown at the end, left me feeling ultimately dissatisfied with the book as a whole. I liked the characters and the premise, but the execution was ultimately lacking.
** This book was provided to me as an ARC via NetGalley. **
While there are some high points to this novel, ultimately it's not one that I would recommend or want to revisit.
First, the highlights. There's an authenticity to the relationship between Natalie and Archie - things aren't perfect, they've both got their flaws, but they're figuring it out. I found myself rooting for them throughout the book, and appreciated the realism in their portrayal.
I also loved Natalie's family. Her relationship with her mom warmed my heart, and I adored Robin, Natalie's grandfather. Archie's relationship with Robin, in particular, caused a sweet little "awwww" pang every time we got a glimpse of their dynamic.
My big challenge came with Archie's family, notably Yvonne and Daisy - the villains in this tale. They become increasingly unhinged in their approach to wedding planning, but then do a complete 180 - seemingly out of nowhere - and become supportive future in-laws, begging forgiveness for their actions and supporting Natalie's wishes. It honestly gave me whiplash, and while I understand that ultimately Natalie was an unreliable narrator who had made them out to be worse than they actually were, I still felt that the shift was too sudden and really detracted from the end of the book.
Finally, I feel like the whole book was longer than it needed to be. It drags on in excruciating detail, then speeds through the resolution. That, combined with throwing in the COVID lockdown at the end, left me feeling ultimately dissatisfied with the book as a whole. I liked the characters and the premise, but the execution was ultimately lacking.
** This book was provided to me as an ARC via NetGalley. **
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2021
⭐️⭐️.5/5
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookoture for the chance to read and review Sophie Ranald’s newest release; He’s Cancelled out on June 23!
This is my third Sophie Ranald book, and probably my least favorite.
I enjoyed Just Sayin’ and loved Thank You, Next. So when I heard she had a new release coming out? I instantly requested it and couldn’t wait! Her books are always so funny, quick, and enjoyable. This one was such a disappointment!
I didn’t like a single character. Not a one. Daisy was absolutely terrible and Archie was just a dud. The whole book is about Nat dealing with this wedding that everyone else is planning for her, and not having the guts to say what she wants and does or doesn’t like. That’s it. And it got old, fast. It got so repetitive that it got to the point where I just wanted to yell at Nat and skip to the end just to see how this all plays out.
My god the emphasis on material things was extra. I get that was the point but I DONT CARE. I don’t care about brand names and type of handwriting. There was way too much emphasis on it and it should have been cut short.
Also, why did it take so long for the plot to solve itself? It happened pretty abruptly with four chapters left in the story. No build up or anything. It just…happened. It was not satisfying. I was just so bored!
The one consistent thing with her other books though, is that the humor is there. But other than that - this one fell short for me unfortunately. I will still read her other works, and hopefully they’re better than this one was.
June 23, 2021
Two and a half stars.
Getting engaged to her boyfriend Archie should have been the happiest day of Natalie's life, but soon it turns into a nightmare. Archie's parents are seriously wealthy and offer to pay for the whole wedding, but Archie's mother's idea of the perfect wedding is nothing like the small intimate affair, followed by dinner in the local pub that Natalie has dreamed of. Then her sister-in-law to be gets involved, trying to recreate the dream wedding that she had to abandon when her fiancé was caught cheating.
Natalie is trying to bond with her in-laws to be, but Archie won't back her up and soon she's agreeing to marriage in a stately home, a puffy dress that doesn't suit her, a pushy wedding planner who has grandiose ideas, and hundreds of guests she doesn't know.
Have you ever finished a book and thought 'huh, wonder why they wrote that?', well this was it for me. I'm sorry to be be so negative but I didn't find this funny or romantic, frankly I was hoping that Natalie would dump Archie and find someone with a backbone. I'm afraid that in order to make her novel 'funny' Sophie Ranald created a bizarre group of caricatures and then had to row back so hard to create a HEA that I practically got whiplash. Maybe I'm too old to empathise with wedding planning issues.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Getting engaged to her boyfriend Archie should have been the happiest day of Natalie's life, but soon it turns into a nightmare. Archie's parents are seriously wealthy and offer to pay for the whole wedding, but Archie's mother's idea of the perfect wedding is nothing like the small intimate affair, followed by dinner in the local pub that Natalie has dreamed of. Then her sister-in-law to be gets involved, trying to recreate the dream wedding that she had to abandon when her fiancé was caught cheating.
Natalie is trying to bond with her in-laws to be, but Archie won't back her up and soon she's agreeing to marriage in a stately home, a puffy dress that doesn't suit her, a pushy wedding planner who has grandiose ideas, and hundreds of guests she doesn't know.
Have you ever finished a book and thought 'huh, wonder why they wrote that?', well this was it for me. I'm sorry to be be so negative but I didn't find this funny or romantic, frankly I was hoping that Natalie would dump Archie and find someone with a backbone. I'm afraid that in order to make her novel 'funny' Sophie Ranald created a bizarre group of caricatures and then had to row back so hard to create a HEA that I practically got whiplash. Maybe I'm too old to empathise with wedding planning issues.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
May 24, 2021
Every now and then, I think that I’ve outgrown rom-coms. And then suddenly, one surprises me completely. I hoped this one would too. I read Sophie Ronald’s books before, and I really liked them. Liked. Yeah. I now read different books than I did years ago, and my liking has probably changed as a result. To be honest, I don’t really care about this story. Maybe it’s the premise: planning a wedding with all the problems you can think of. Maybe it’s the writing: the first chapter started showing, and that put me off. Or maybe it’s the story overall: it fell flat for me and I was longing for the book to end, but it dragged on.
So, don’t take notice of my review. If you like British rom-coms, reading about weddings, or are planning a wedding, this story might be the right fit for you. Other reviewers love this story; just be sure you check out their reviews!
So, don’t take notice of my review. If you like British rom-coms, reading about weddings, or are planning a wedding, this story might be the right fit for you. Other reviewers love this story; just be sure you check out their reviews!
June 26, 2021
Natalie is more than excited and thrilled when her boyfriend, Archie, proposes marriage. She doesn’t hesitate to accept his proposal, but from the moment she does, her life is turned upside down.
There’s no way Archie’s mother will let them have a small wedding. In fact, there’s no way she will let Natalie have anything to say about the wedding. Even the wedding dress decision is taken out of her hands by Archie’s sister.
Natalie doesn’t want to cause problems, but she’d like to have a say in her own wedding. Archie is no help as he manages to always find something to keep him away and out of this mess. He’s perfectly happy letting Natalie deal with his domineering family.
With all the craziness going on, Natalie is ready to throw in the towel and cancel the whole thing.
There are so many “laugh out loud” moments in this one. I just kept shaking my head and screaming at Natalie to tell them all off and walk way from it. Of course, that’s always easier said than done. Part of me could understand her wanting to keep the peace, but the other part of me kept thinking it’s her big day and she should be part of the decisions.
Archie really annoyed me. He didn’t seem to be able to stand up to anyone. His answer was to hide and leave Natalie to face everything on her own. However, he does have a soft spot for cats so that kind of won me over 😀
I enjoyed the author’s writing style. She has a great talent for writing both humor and emotional moments. There were some scenes with Natalie and her own family that warmed my heart and were poignant. Very sweetly done.
It’s a “feel good” type of story that makes you smile and even brings a few tears along the way. I’ve never read anything by this author before so I’ll be sure to check her backlist. It looks like I have some fun books to look forward to reading.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
There’s no way Archie’s mother will let them have a small wedding. In fact, there’s no way she will let Natalie have anything to say about the wedding. Even the wedding dress decision is taken out of her hands by Archie’s sister.
Natalie doesn’t want to cause problems, but she’d like to have a say in her own wedding. Archie is no help as he manages to always find something to keep him away and out of this mess. He’s perfectly happy letting Natalie deal with his domineering family.
With all the craziness going on, Natalie is ready to throw in the towel and cancel the whole thing.
There are so many “laugh out loud” moments in this one. I just kept shaking my head and screaming at Natalie to tell them all off and walk way from it. Of course, that’s always easier said than done. Part of me could understand her wanting to keep the peace, but the other part of me kept thinking it’s her big day and she should be part of the decisions.
Archie really annoyed me. He didn’t seem to be able to stand up to anyone. His answer was to hide and leave Natalie to face everything on her own. However, he does have a soft spot for cats so that kind of won me over 😀
I enjoyed the author’s writing style. She has a great talent for writing both humor and emotional moments. There were some scenes with Natalie and her own family that warmed my heart and were poignant. Very sweetly done.
It’s a “feel good” type of story that makes you smile and even brings a few tears along the way. I’ve never read anything by this author before so I’ll be sure to check her backlist. It looks like I have some fun books to look forward to reading.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 27, 2022
3.5* i mostly enjoyed this book however the characters infuriated me so much, natalie allowed everyone to walk all over her and archie was a terrible boyfriend not listening to a thing she had to say
June 22, 2021
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I usually find something nice to say about books I don't like but I really can't find anything to like about this book. The only reason I didn't give it a one star was that I think this book might help people realize they're in terrible relationships that they should definitely get out of.
This book was like a car crash, I couldn't look away. I couldn't get behind the plot, marrying someone you clearly didn't like very much, or the characters, a woman who was willing to put up with anything because she was scared of confrontation. I also think the book titled was rather confusing. The book is called He's Cancelled and yet, for the vast majority of the book, there is not cancelling to be seen. The book should be call A Guide to Gaslighting Yourself into Staying in a Toxic Relationship.
The only saving grace of this book was Robin, Natalie's grandfather. He was very sweet and I enjoyed his scenes.
Save yourself the time and read something (anything) else.
I usually find something nice to say about books I don't like but I really can't find anything to like about this book. The only reason I didn't give it a one star was that I think this book might help people realize they're in terrible relationships that they should definitely get out of.
This book was like a car crash, I couldn't look away. I couldn't get behind the plot, marrying someone you clearly didn't like very much, or the characters, a woman who was willing to put up with anything because she was scared of confrontation. I also think the book titled was rather confusing. The book is called He's Cancelled and yet, for the vast majority of the book, there is not cancelling to be seen. The book should be call A Guide to Gaslighting Yourself into Staying in a Toxic Relationship.
The only saving grace of this book was Robin, Natalie's grandfather. He was very sweet and I enjoyed his scenes.
Save yourself the time and read something (anything) else.
September 13, 2021
Dont understand the title after reading the book...the title seemed as if she doesnt need a man to be happy but in the end she crawls back to him...
June 3, 2021
~ARC eBook copy~
*Mild Spoilers*
I loved this book, initially because it was reminiscent of some of Sophie Kinsella's books, which I've always liked, and partly because it was a great way to break up all of the high fantasy I've been reading.
I immediately liked Nat as a character and felt that her decisions were pretty relatable, for better or for worse. I didn't LOVE Archie, and tended to agree more with her negative points on him more than the positives, until the end of the book, at which point I decided that he was A Good Egg.
I loved Nat's decision regarding the wedding, and that it proved Archie's parents to be fairly decent people. As a character, I thought Daisy was great, and her character development and depth as the book progressed were a nice twist on what could have been an otherwise two-dimensional character.
I did feel that the plot was a little slow in the middle, and that I felt I'd read more than I actually had, but it picked up again towards the end and I didn't want to put it down.
I particularly enjoyed the nods towards COVID in the final few chapters, because I was wondering at points exactly where this fitted into a real-life timeline. The way the pandemic was introduced and incorporated felt really real, and the emotions that came with that definitely mirrored the simultaneous optimism and distress that we all felt early on.
It definitely made me laugh, and the stress in it wasn't nearly as bad as it could have been, so that was a welcome break (again) from the angst I've been putting myself through with my other current reads.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to people looking for a light romance that's altogether warm, relatively calm, and will make you smile.
*Mild Spoilers*
I loved this book, initially because it was reminiscent of some of Sophie Kinsella's books, which I've always liked, and partly because it was a great way to break up all of the high fantasy I've been reading.
I immediately liked Nat as a character and felt that her decisions were pretty relatable, for better or for worse. I didn't LOVE Archie, and tended to agree more with her negative points on him more than the positives, until the end of the book, at which point I decided that he was A Good Egg.
I loved Nat's decision regarding the wedding, and that it proved Archie's parents to be fairly decent people. As a character, I thought Daisy was great, and her character development and depth as the book progressed were a nice twist on what could have been an otherwise two-dimensional character.
I did feel that the plot was a little slow in the middle, and that I felt I'd read more than I actually had, but it picked up again towards the end and I didn't want to put it down.
I particularly enjoyed the nods towards COVID in the final few chapters, because I was wondering at points exactly where this fitted into a real-life timeline. The way the pandemic was introduced and incorporated felt really real, and the emotions that came with that definitely mirrored the simultaneous optimism and distress that we all felt early on.
It definitely made me laugh, and the stress in it wasn't nearly as bad as it could have been, so that was a welcome break (again) from the angst I've been putting myself through with my other current reads.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to people looking for a light romance that's altogether warm, relatively calm, and will make you smile.
August 15, 2021
This is a romcom with a difference – this time it isn’t the bride to be that’s being a bridezilla but her husband-to-be’s parents and younger sister, Daisy! Forget Natalie and Archie’s plans for a quiet family wedding, with the reception at the local pub, The Ginger Cat, and instead get ready for his family planning them a nightmarish extravaganza, ignoring their wishes, making Natalie rethink the whole idea of getting married and Archie switching off from all the palaver!
When dreams turn into nightmares, a quiet, intimate wedding become anything but low key, can Natalie and Archie find a way to curb his family’s plans and stop them scuppering their own? This is every bride-to-be’s worse nightmare but is also funny! It is also one of the few books I’ve read where the COVID pandemic is part of the story. Actually, that aspect had me worried for Natalie’s beloved Grandpa who, with his chicken loving cat, has to be one of my favourite characters in the story. There’s lots of character growth in the story, especially for Daisy, who I initially disliked. I really wanted Natalie to stand up for herself and for Archie to stand up for them both, too, but he’s so laid back he’s almost horizontal at times . . . . There are characters to love and others who you grow to like more as the story progresses and the quiz questions at the start of each chapter add to the story. If you’re looking for a fun, very contemporary romcom this could be the book you’ve been dreaming of!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
When dreams turn into nightmares, a quiet, intimate wedding become anything but low key, can Natalie and Archie find a way to curb his family’s plans and stop them scuppering their own? This is every bride-to-be’s worse nightmare but is also funny! It is also one of the few books I’ve read where the COVID pandemic is part of the story. Actually, that aspect had me worried for Natalie’s beloved Grandpa who, with his chicken loving cat, has to be one of my favourite characters in the story. There’s lots of character growth in the story, especially for Daisy, who I initially disliked. I really wanted Natalie to stand up for herself and for Archie to stand up for them both, too, but he’s so laid back he’s almost horizontal at times . . . . There are characters to love and others who you grow to like more as the story progresses and the quiz questions at the start of each chapter add to the story. If you’re looking for a fun, very contemporary romcom this could be the book you’ve been dreaming of!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
June 23, 2021
While this is mostly a romcom it wasn’t the comedy aspect that I enjoyed the most, but the relationships between the characters. The dreaded mother in law to be with high expectations for her only son, the colleagues and patients in the hospital where Natalie works as a physiotherapist, her friendship/relationship with her mum and what a refreshing change to have a single mum cast in a fantastic light , extra star for that. My personal favourite was her beloved grandad and it brought back so many fond memories of my own.
After Archie’s whirlwind proposal, Natalie is browsing through wedding magazines in the hairdressers when she comes across a quiz. I loved the clever touch that each following chapter is then headed with a multiple choice question and answers from that.
While this should be mostly about her and Archie I found that although I liked him at the start and thought what a fun relationship they had he turned into a bit of a damp squib. Alarm bells soon started to ring rather than wedding bells.
Natalie was a great character and another bonus point that she is a young woman who is down to earth, up for a laugh and doesn’t take life too seriously, plays sports and isn’t your usual whiny high maintenance annoyance. Leave all that to the dreaded mother in law Yvonne.
A light and breezy book which gave me some giggles and warmed my heart. If you are looking for something fun and easy with some brilliant characters then look no further.
After Archie’s whirlwind proposal, Natalie is browsing through wedding magazines in the hairdressers when she comes across a quiz. I loved the clever touch that each following chapter is then headed with a multiple choice question and answers from that.
While this should be mostly about her and Archie I found that although I liked him at the start and thought what a fun relationship they had he turned into a bit of a damp squib. Alarm bells soon started to ring rather than wedding bells.
Natalie was a great character and another bonus point that she is a young woman who is down to earth, up for a laugh and doesn’t take life too seriously, plays sports and isn’t your usual whiny high maintenance annoyance. Leave all that to the dreaded mother in law Yvonne.
A light and breezy book which gave me some giggles and warmed my heart. If you are looking for something fun and easy with some brilliant characters then look no further.
June 16, 2021
Sophie Ranald was the first author’s book I got approved to review when I first signed up for NetGalley and now 3 books in, she’s my go to author.
Sᴜᴍᴍᴀʀʏ
Nat has been dating Archie for over a year and is sure to have met THE ONE and when he gets down on one knee (even if it’s with a great big fall) she’s overwhelmed with joy but why is she so doubtful when her mother and sister in law take over the wedding?
Eᴠᴀʟᴜᴀᴛɪᴏɴ.
I loved the way the story naturally flowed into our current situation where it starts from them living a normal life to slowly moving to a life of the pandemic.
I love Sophie’s way of touching everyone in the neighborhood’s story like a continuation of the series it made me understand and emphasize with the characters.
My favorite character being Nat’s mom, Grandpa and of course Teresa.
honestly I found most of the characters so annoying but I understand that was actually the authors purpose .. and I could really emphasize with Nat’s POV having lived with such people myself.
Daisy was such an attention seeker, Yvonne never took no for an answer and Archie didn’t really care at all nor could he even stand for his decisions or his future wife’s.
Mʏ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛs
Although this book is very well written, it’s the least favorite of mine among her series , I’ll give a 3 star because the book was basically Nat Vs her wedding.
For me this book actually taught me a different culture because as an Arab , our weddings are usually so extravagant and it’s never about the two families.
I found it so funny when she freaked out because of having 140guests because in our wedding it’s usually more than 300 invited guests and there’s always the invited ones that will come and it goes on for 3-4 days
Sᴜᴍᴍᴀʀʏ
Nat has been dating Archie for over a year and is sure to have met THE ONE and when he gets down on one knee (even if it’s with a great big fall) she’s overwhelmed with joy but why is she so doubtful when her mother and sister in law take over the wedding?
Eᴠᴀʟᴜᴀᴛɪᴏɴ.
I loved the way the story naturally flowed into our current situation where it starts from them living a normal life to slowly moving to a life of the pandemic.
I love Sophie’s way of touching everyone in the neighborhood’s story like a continuation of the series it made me understand and emphasize with the characters.
My favorite character being Nat’s mom, Grandpa and of course Teresa.
honestly I found most of the characters so annoying but I understand that was actually the authors purpose .. and I could really emphasize with Nat’s POV having lived with such people myself.
Daisy was such an attention seeker, Yvonne never took no for an answer and Archie didn’t really care at all nor could he even stand for his decisions or his future wife’s.
Mʏ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛs
Although this book is very well written, it’s the least favorite of mine among her series , I’ll give a 3 star because the book was basically Nat Vs her wedding.
For me this book actually taught me a different culture because as an Arab , our weddings are usually so extravagant and it’s never about the two families.
I found it so funny when she freaked out because of having 140guests because in our wedding it’s usually more than 300 invited guests and there’s always the invited ones that will come and it goes on for 3-4 days
June 22, 2021
Oh .. what can I say. I would probably die with my self-confidence if I found in simmilar situation. Imagine getting engaged after a short time of beeing together and being pushed into organizing a wedding with your mother in low. Who is very dominant. And you just want simple things. Go slowly. I admired Natalie. And I had to learn to love others. We are all different. In the end, it was curious. All emotions in one book.
We thank Netgallwy.com and Bookouture for a wonderful opportunity to read this book. All thoughts are mine
We thank Netgallwy.com and Bookouture for a wonderful opportunity to read this book. All thoughts are mine
November 12, 2021
Nat is pretty happy with where she is in life. Great life in boyfriend Archie, good job, good friends. When Archie proposes, she looks forward to a low key wedding with their closest friends - but her in-laws to be have different ideas. Before she knows, her wedding has been hijacked and is going to be a huge affair. What’s worse, is Archie isn’t supporting Nat through the whole ordeal. Is this what Nat really wants?
Another easy, feel good book by Ranald! I loved that characters and places from previous books had guest appearances in this one. A must read for rom com lovers.
Thanks bookouture and NetGalley for the review copy.
Another easy, feel good book by Ranald! I loved that characters and places from previous books had guest appearances in this one. A must read for rom com lovers.
Thanks bookouture and NetGalley for the review copy.
July 2, 2021
This was a light read for my mini summer vacation this past week. Natalie's in-laws trouble was very relatable, and there were definitely some laugh-out-loud points in the story. But Archie? Nope, just nope. While the total avoidance of anything to do with the wedding was understandable, given his character, choosing not to bring up Bill's behavior with Nat even after he came to know of it? That's just plain cowardice and did not sit well with me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc.
April 26, 2022
Cute, kinda predictable, but cute.
November 18, 2021
Fine writing....just not my cuppa. Coronavirus makes an appearance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2021
I usually enjoy Sophie Ranald's books, but this one really frustrated me.
The author's insistence on setting her books in the same area with overlapping characters was confusing. First, there was the book about Alice with the side character Zoe being the villain. Then there was the one about Zoe, who now was no longer villainous. And now this one is about Natalie, and whilst Alice and Zoe are mentioned in passing, there is no comment on the fairly major storyline of Natalie's fiancé Archie almost having had a thing with Alice in a previous book, prior to the events of this one. Why was it never even mentioned? The author should have just set this book in a different universe, because other than the fact that Archie owns a craft gin shop and the Ginger Cat pub being referenced several times, the setting and supporting characters really had no relevance to the story.
I enjoyed the first three quarters of the book, but the the final few chapters felt very rushed with a sudden change in tone. For most of the story Natalie, being a protagonist in a rom com novel, had been predictably and frustratingly doormat-like in agreeing to have a huge wedding that she doesn't want, until she suddenly and without warning calls the entire thing off. Considering how she'd previously agreed to every single detail that she hated, it seemed quite out of character. The very pushy in-laws to be are surprisingly understanding of this decision and agree that they have been incredibly pushy. This is also very out of character. The next chapter is about how the UK is about to go into lockdown. There had not been a single mention of Covid before this, so it felt completely out of the blue. And without really explaining if she's broken up with Archie or not (or even having a proper conversation with him about it), they get back together. It just felt like a lot of build up for nothing.
The author's insistence on setting her books in the same area with overlapping characters was confusing. First, there was the book about Alice with the side character Zoe being the villain. Then there was the one about Zoe, who now was no longer villainous. And now this one is about Natalie, and whilst Alice and Zoe are mentioned in passing, there is no comment on the fairly major storyline of Natalie's fiancé Archie almost having had a thing with Alice in a previous book, prior to the events of this one. Why was it never even mentioned? The author should have just set this book in a different universe, because other than the fact that Archie owns a craft gin shop and the Ginger Cat pub being referenced several times, the setting and supporting characters really had no relevance to the story.
I enjoyed the first three quarters of the book, but the the final few chapters felt very rushed with a sudden change in tone. For most of the story Natalie, being a protagonist in a rom com novel, had been predictably and frustratingly doormat-like in agreeing to have a huge wedding that she doesn't want, until she suddenly and without warning calls the entire thing off. Considering how she'd previously agreed to every single detail that she hated, it seemed quite out of character. The very pushy in-laws to be are surprisingly understanding of this decision and agree that they have been incredibly pushy. This is also very out of character. The next chapter is about how the UK is about to go into lockdown. There had not been a single mention of Covid before this, so it felt completely out of the blue. And without really explaining if she's broken up with Archie or not (or even having a proper conversation with him about it), they get back together. It just felt like a lot of build up for nothing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2023
Reading this book felt like watching a horror movie, expecting something scary to happen but it abruptly ending instead.
This book is basically a story of a weak protagonist who has doubts about getting married, but doesn’t say anything about it till the end, when her boyfriend end up at a strip club on his stag. She then convinces herself that she is at fault when her boyfriend leaves.
They eventually got together again, however no inner change happens in either of the protagonists.
Following Nat as a protagonist is painful - you expect the events she engages with to have impact on the story, but they don’t. We end up following her a lot at work, but that is often unrelated to the story and the tangents about stairs assessments get really annoying really fast.
One of the things Natalie complains a lot about is feeling unsupported by Archie on preparation to their wedding, but right after they separate, he never makes an attempt to change this, and gets rewarded for this by having Nat craw back to him, begging him to get back together.
I feel the author wanted to convey Nat has a strong personality, but ended up writing quite the opposite.
Archie is not much better - he doesn’t seem bothered his friend attempted to sexually assault his girlfriend, accepts his apology without talking to her, is cool he set him up with the stripper and had his photographs posted on social media, despite knowing this will hurt his relationship, and doesn’t reach out or make an effort with Nat after they separate.
In addition, this book felt really long, it could have been shortened and it would have probably read better. Nat’s dialogue and speech are also filled with repetitive phrases like “isn’t it” after every second sentence.
Ultimately, a disappointing read which I originally thought was a romance and ended up as a mediocre women’s fiction.
This book is basically a story of a weak protagonist who has doubts about getting married, but doesn’t say anything about it till the end, when her boyfriend end up at a strip club on his stag. She then convinces herself that she is at fault when her boyfriend leaves.
They eventually got together again, however no inner change happens in either of the protagonists.
Following Nat as a protagonist is painful - you expect the events she engages with to have impact on the story, but they don’t. We end up following her a lot at work, but that is often unrelated to the story and the tangents about stairs assessments get really annoying really fast.
One of the things Natalie complains a lot about is feeling unsupported by Archie on preparation to their wedding, but right after they separate, he never makes an attempt to change this, and gets rewarded for this by having Nat craw back to him, begging him to get back together.
I feel the author wanted to convey Nat has a strong personality, but ended up writing quite the opposite.
Archie is not much better - he doesn’t seem bothered his friend attempted to sexually assault his girlfriend, accepts his apology without talking to her, is cool he set him up with the stripper and had his photographs posted on social media, despite knowing this will hurt his relationship, and doesn’t reach out or make an effort with Nat after they separate.
In addition, this book felt really long, it could have been shortened and it would have probably read better. Nat’s dialogue and speech are also filled with repetitive phrases like “isn’t it” after every second sentence.
Ultimately, a disappointing read which I originally thought was a romance and ended up as a mediocre women’s fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2021
After a messy but cute proposal, Natalie and Archie are beginning to plan their wedding. Something small and quiet at the registry, followed by a reception at the local pub. But Archie’s mother and sister turn into bridesillas, and take over planning, and Archie seems miles away. How has the wedding gotten so out of hand, and will Natalie be able to bring it back?
I found Archie to be such a likeable character in his cameos in the two previous books I’ve read by Ranald, so I was super disappointed to finally have a book about him and find I hated him. He’s selfish and flakey, he can’t bother to plan or care about his wedding, and helps starts fights every time Natalie brings it up to him. I couldn’t stand him.
Natalie isn’t much better. She lets everyone walk all over her and plan this ridiculous wedding she doesn’t want just to make other people happy. She is in a loveless relationship, and she adds to the fighting with Archie.
Then of course Archie’s mother and sister are terrible, basically planning a wedding for the sister herself instead of Archie and his bride.
I’m sad to say I didn’t enjoy this story.
I found Archie to be such a likeable character in his cameos in the two previous books I’ve read by Ranald, so I was super disappointed to finally have a book about him and find I hated him. He’s selfish and flakey, he can’t bother to plan or care about his wedding, and helps starts fights every time Natalie brings it up to him. I couldn’t stand him.
Natalie isn’t much better. She lets everyone walk all over her and plan this ridiculous wedding she doesn’t want just to make other people happy. She is in a loveless relationship, and she adds to the fighting with Archie.
Then of course Archie’s mother and sister are terrible, basically planning a wedding for the sister herself instead of Archie and his bride.
I’m sad to say I didn’t enjoy this story.
August 1, 2021
He's Cancelled is a bowl of annoyance with a dash of fun. Please don't get me wrong. The writing was good as revealed in the characterization of the people in the story that evoked annoyance, my main reaction to Nat's people-pleasing, Yvonne's and Daisy's insensitivity, and Archie's nonchalance.
Even though the story focused more on the wedding preparation, the author was able to illustrate the reasons why Archie was canceled. His constant disregard for his fiancée's issues with his family and his best friend who drove herself up the wall revealed his lack of importance on Nat as his partner and as a woman. This is such a deal-breaker for me.
The side stories featuring Nat’s mother, grandfather, and friends created heartwarming interludes between stressful wedding planning and couple arguments.
This book is for those who are looking for a light romcom that is about an uncertain bride, wedding planning, and bridezillas. The story is a nice read with its comprehensible and well-paced plot.
3.5/5
Even though the story focused more on the wedding preparation, the author was able to illustrate the reasons why Archie was canceled. His constant disregard for his fiancée's issues with his family and his best friend who drove herself up the wall revealed his lack of importance on Nat as his partner and as a woman. This is such a deal-breaker for me.
The side stories featuring Nat’s mother, grandfather, and friends created heartwarming interludes between stressful wedding planning and couple arguments.
This book is for those who are looking for a light romcom that is about an uncertain bride, wedding planning, and bridezillas. The story is a nice read with its comprehensible and well-paced plot.
3.5/5
September 19, 2023
What straight hell is this? Ladies if his mum cares more about the wedding and he leaves you hanging because his job is more important than yours time and time again, put him in the bin. He never redeems himself never steps up and tells his mum to stop, she feels bad and forgives him but she shouldn't have because he his a toxic dick. He didn't even tell his mum they were engaged, get rid of his chicken shit ass.
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