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The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction

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A fake diamond, a cloudy emerald, six unworn wedding dresses hanging in the closet. A bunch of almost Mr. Rights. But only ONE TRUE LOVE.

Two weeks before her wedding, a tragedy takes place and Leslie Westcott becomes a
single woman once again. The pain of it all is palpable and the need to move
forward in life takes time. But over the next few years, Leslie has no problem
meeting Mr. Almost Right and accepts their proposal. After all, with the loss of her
one true love no one would ever fill that void. Leslie must change what she wants
with each new relationship, but what about love?

Fortunately, the thought of settling for less stops her, always in the nick of time.
Though the end result, is a closet full of unworn wedding dresses and an aunt who
owns a bridal shop and decides to have a charity auction to benefit a local women’s
shelter. Join Leslie as she relives each voyage to love and decides which dresses
she is ready to cast away. And what about her true love? Has he been there all
along, and her engagement rings have sparkled too brightly to see him just
beyond?

Maybe the love of her life has been there all along — she’ll have to look past the
sparkle of her engagement rings and into the heart and soul of a good friend.

358 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2021

162 people are currently reading
164 people want to read

About the author

Mary Oldham

14 books32 followers
Since January 2008, Mary has written seventeen manuscripts and is a three-time Golden Heart Finalist with the Romance Writers of America, including a 2010 Golden Heart nomination for Contemporary Series Romance for LAURA TAKES A LOVER and a 2012 Golden Heart nomination for Romantic Suspense for CHEMICAL ATTRACTION and a 2015 Golden Heart nomination for Contemporary Series Romance for A NIGHT AT THE ROSEMONT.

Mary has been a multimedia account executive for USA Today and Advance for over twenty years.

With a Business degree in Marketing from Oregon State University and a minor in Apparel, Interiors, and Merchandising, Mary writes about smart, business-savvy heroines who find themselves caught between traditional roles and their own independent spirit.

She lives in Portland, Oregon, and regularly travels to a family beach house in the charming town of Yachats, Oregon.

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5 stars
242 (66%)
4 stars
74 (20%)
3 stars
31 (8%)
2 stars
9 (2%)
1 star
6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for B.K. Stubblefield.
Author 14 books203 followers
October 26, 2021
I loved everything about this romance.
If you are looking for a read with all the feels, don’t look any further. Leslie Westcott is about to be married to the love of her life when tragedy strikes. Throwing herself into the family business, this independent woman leaps into her work, building a successful realtor career while wedding dress after wedding dress finds its way into her closet. How this happens, and why she’s a fiancée several times over but never walks the aisle, you will need to read for yourself. The author did a fantastic job developing characters we can easily recognize as someone we may know. If you’re looking for a joyful read with a heap of humor, this book is for you.
1 review
August 28, 2021
Mary Oldham, I am so thrilled to have read your Romantic Book!! Great Job !!

I felt as though I knew Leslie as a friend. I felt so bad for her at times.
Found myself laughing and crying at times.

It was hard to put the book down, do laundry and cook meals. I just wanted to
keep reading and reading. I took my time enjoying it, so much !!

As Leslie, I too own a Vizsla named Dusty. He sat by me as I read the book, sometimes I had to
pet him with one hand as I read. Yes, Velcro. Some parts I read to him.

I surely hope there will be a Part 2. And maybe a Movie.

P.S. Mary the wedding dress designs were perfect. XOXO

Profile Image for Phyllis.
1,184 reviews62 followers
August 23, 2022
This one sounded so good when reading the description, but it didn’t deliver on its promises. After 73 pages I just couldn’t read anymore after it became obvious what I would have to endure in order to finish.

Leslie Westcott loses the love of her life in a climbing accident two weeks before her wedding. Over the ensuing years, she meets and becomes engaged to several other men, planning each wedding which includes buying a new dress. For one reason or another, she breaks off each relationship, and ends up with several unworn wedding dresses. Eventually she decides to offer them at a fundraising auction. I’m assuming the auction takes place at the end of the novel since I didn’t get that far.

After reading about her second Mr. Almost Right, I realized the rest of the 344-page novel would consist of Leslie becoming engaged and then breaking off the relationship time after time. The novel might have been more readable but author Mary Oldham flips back in time to give away the outcomes and personalities of various suitors. Therefore we know ahead of time why Leslie decides not to marry each man. For that reason there was no tension or uncertainty for this reader. And as another reviewer mentioned, for a smart businesswoman she was clueless about men. At page 73 it was already tedious, so I’ve given myself permission to stop reading and mark this one DNF (Did Not Finish).
Profile Image for Kris Keener.
12 reviews
August 24, 2021
This is a true romance novel following an independent woman navigating love in the real world, with all its hopes and disappointments. Just when you think maybe she should just give up, the novel takes a turn and reminds you that love is always worth pursuing.

The structure of flashing back to each of the dresses and those romances is different but I encourage you to stick with it. The end is worth it. Wish the end lasted a little longer so we could enjoy it more.

Absolutely the best romance novel I’ve read in a long, long time. Genuine, heartfelt, real, feel-good. Everything a romance novel should be.
Profile Image for Melissa.
Author 7 books31 followers
August 28, 2021
I had so much fun reading this book! What kept me engaged (ha ha, a pun perhaps?) was the humor that came out of left field sometimes. Don't get me wrong, it's not all laughs. I mean, our main character, Leslie, goes through several layers of hell. I got the impression sometimes that she was a bit selfish but I cut her a break because when you go through what she went through, you can only hope that the universe takes it easy on you.
I especially like Charlie - unassuming and smart as hell.
A very entertaining story and my God, the amount of bullets she dodges is amazing!
1 review
August 31, 2021
Romance is not my usual genre, so I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. We know from the outset that the main character, Leslie, has been unlucky in love. She has a wedding dress for each ended relationship and there is a flashback to each one explaining what went wrong. I was impressed by the author's illustrations using her own dress designs. The reader knows long before Leslie does who provides the happy ending. Part of the fun is watching her discover him.
2 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2021
This is a wonderful book, filled with wit, fun twists and romance. The main character, Leslie has depth, intelligence, a sense of humor and vulnerability. Her family and friends are appealing and interesting. And there’s never a dull moment with the men in her life. I loved this book. The author does an excellent job of drawing the reader in with her vivid descriptions of Portland, gem stones, fashion, restaurants and the real estate scene. The author also includes her own lovely drawings of wedding gowns, making this book unique. Read this book for a fun, heartfelt escape.
Profile Image for Carlimact.
121 reviews1 follower
November 15, 2024
"The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction" is the story of love, loss and Leslie's awful taste in men.

My love/hate relationship with Oldham continues as my mom gives me her books lol.

Leslie tragically loses her first fiancee, Jordan, in an accident two weeks before their wedding.
The next five years consist of her dating woes and I mean WOES.

While the story started out strong, Leslie's ability to ignore the red flags in front of her is astonishing.
So astonishing I can't help but wonder what was wrong with "Perfect Man" Jordan. His appearance was small but haunts the narrative as Leslie goes through engagement after engagement until the big auction in the final act. Perhaps it was his horrid mother...

Leslie's endgame romance with Charlie feels lacking. It felt rushed and lacked presence.
2 reviews
August 26, 2021
What a fun read! A new to me author and I can't wait for more books! Her writing style and voice are new and fresh - she's a savvy and witty author, and the story is unputdownable. Leslie's journey to finding Mr. Right has all the feels - this is a book you won't want to miss. A must read, get your copy today. 5 stars.
1 review1 follower
August 27, 2021
Mary Oldham paints with her words- there’s no other way to say it. From the first I had to keep remembering that I was reading, not watching a movie playing out in front of my eyes. I laughed, I cried, I had to reread portions, then read parts to friends to share what was ‘happening now with this woman!’ Leslie became my friend, and became me, as I turned the pages- the sketches of dresses are scrumptious, BTW.
I will reread the book and then I’m ready for the movie!

Leslie D.
1 review1 follower
August 27, 2021
What a fun summer read! I loved the main character -Leslie. The book was written in a way that you immediately empathize with her and go through all of her emotions. It’s just one of those sweet and heartwarming stories. It will definitely take your mind off of the negativity in the world. And well who doesn’t love a book where the main characters own Vizslas.
2 reviews
August 24, 2021
Once I started reading, I couldn’t stop. I had such fun following Leslie’s romances and escapades, feeling a bit voyeuristic, and I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. Justin Trudeau is my new hero and you’ll just have to read the book to know what I mean.
1 review
August 29, 2021
Once I picked it up I could not put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
1 review
October 30, 2021
Loved the story! Leslie's missteps after losing Jason had me so worried. I was so happy when she finally realized the best one was right there. I'm so glad I read it.
Profile Image for Reading by Deb.
1,218 reviews33 followers
January 1, 2022
Leslie has just gotten out of the shower and with only a towel over her wet hair stares in horror as she takes in the morning news. Her Aunt Trudel is being interviewed by the local news channel about her charity auction this weekend - The 1st Annual Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction.

Her aunt owns the premiere Trudel's Wedding Boutique in Portland. If you live in the Pacific Northwest her boutique is THE PLACE to buy your dress and this auction will be auctioning 50 wedding dresses from previous brides or those who never made it down the aisle and will benefit Rachel's House.

Leslie is feeling shock, anger and humiliation as her aunt tells everyone in viewing area that her niece is donating close to half a dozen dresses. No, not her niece, her niece Leslie Westcott. Not only had she not decided if she would be letting go of any of said wedding dresses, but they were to be listed "anonymous donor".

Immediately her phone begins to ring from local news stations and other local media trying to get her story.

I loved this book! It is very well written and the storyline grabbed my attention immediately. The characters are fully developed, totally relatable whether you love them, hate them or want to flat out kill them.

This book reminds me of the movie 27 Dresses starring Katherine Heigl where she is always the bridesmaid, but never the bride. Leslie is one of the top realtors in the area and as she makes her way into the office and trys to get through closings, lunch and her other daily errands she can't escape the looks of pity or disgust.

As the day approaches the auction her aunt and cousin are putting pressure on her to get rid of what they call the bad karma surrounding her and she starts going through the painful and humiliating memories of her love life. Leslie's story will fill you will sadness, horror, anger and hope.

This book is action packed full of intrigue as this author takes you through the tragedy of Leslie's prior engagements. I laughed and cried throughout this book. Highly recommend! This is my first book by Mary Oldham, but she had a new fan.
499 reviews4 followers
May 13, 2024
The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction

By: Mary Oldham
Narrated by: Gildart Jackson

Timeless and Stunning! I LOVED this story!

Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 05-13-2024

When tragedy robbed Leslie Westcott of the future she’d planned, her closet gained an unworn wedding gown. Every time Leslie tried to move forward, fate intervened … her closet gained another gown … At times humorous, at times heartbreaking, “The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction” is the story of HOW those wedding gowns came to be … unused as Leslie took on fate! Filled with heartbreak, heartache, humor, and hope “The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction” is PLATINUM PERFECTION! I was riveted! Each dress has its own fully developed, smooth flowing story. The “stories” beautifully weave together into an emotional, engaging and engrossing “whole” that held me fascinated from beginning to end! I felt every emotion one could feel as I listened to this perfectly written, perfectly balanced, perfect in every way audio! I had deep feelings for what Leslie was going through; times when I cried with her as I felt her pain, and times where my fists were clenched in anger as I felt her completely justified rage! I laughed, at times outrageously so, with tears streaming down my face! In addition to Leslie, there is a full cast of supporting characters, all clearly defined, unique and very human! I loved how ALL the characters evolved WITH the story. There were quite a few that I felt one way about, and then as THEIR story played out, I had a complete change of heart brought on by character evolution and circumstance, exactly as the author intended! I’ll not say how I felt about whom, that would be playing spoiler, and we can’t have that, but trust me, they are so well defined and developed that you’ll have no trouble making up YOUR mind about each and every one! The narration bringing the author’s vision to life is clear, emotional, perfectly timed and truly spectacular, making this beautiful story a listening pleasure! I loved everything about this one, and I want to listen to it all over again. Five stunning stars!
Profile Image for Dorothy Minor.
838 reviews18 followers
May 22, 2022
As readers know, not all books are for all readers. I stepped way out of my comfort zone in choosing The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction by Mary Oldham. Mary Oldham has a terrific following of loyal readers who rave about her books. Oldham has received awards such as being a Golden Heart finalist with the Romance Writers of America in the areas of Contemporary Romance and Romantic Suspense.

The premise for The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction is excellent. Leslie Westcott has been engaged five times, bought beautiful wedding dresses five times, but five times she has not made it to the altar. A variety of factors intervene to keep Leslie from walking down the aisle. Still, she holds on to the dresses although she purchases a new one for each engagement.

Readers learn the whole story—or stories—through the chapters. The story begins with the publicity for the auction. Then Leslie details each engagement and what has happened to keep her from walking down the aisle.

Then Leslie’s aunt Trudel, who owns THE bridal shop in Portland, Trudel’s Wedding Boutique, sponsors an auction of wedding dresses to benefit Rachel’s House, a shelter for women in need. Leslie considers giving some or all of her wedding gowns to the auction. Then the unthinkable happens, Trudel, in a live TV interview, tells of Leslie’s misfortune of being engaged and yet not married and even gives her name to the reporter who is covering the publicity for the auction.

Readers may see a predictable end coming The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction. That won’t destroy the story for them. Indeed, it will add to the readers’ delight. A book club of women members would enjoy the story and the back story of how Leslie missed the mark with each of the five engagements.
Profile Image for Miriam Kahn.
2,212 reviews74 followers
December 21, 2022
Ah, a lovely story, a series of reminiscences over wedding dresses, loves & lovers, and friendship galore.

Who can resist a book, a romance, about a woman who accepted 5 marriage proposals, purchased 5 wedding gowns, and yet, doesn't make it to the altar (or does she). Her best friend and co-owner of the Wedding Dress Store are auctioning wedding dresses for women who can't afford them.

In Mary Oldham's latest, you'll meet Leslie Westcott, a real estate broker, who meets "Mr. Almost Right" several times. At least that's what the blurb says. I'll tell you this book is about hope, and about finding the right guy or gal to spend your life with. But be certain to 'check under the hood' to make certain you'll like what you've signed up for.

Anyway, I loved this book. I laughed, I cried, I rooted for Leslie, and I wish her all the happiness in the world.

Thanks to Mary Oldham and BookTrib for a copy to read and review. I'm sharing this one with friends now!

Oh yes, I was reminded of Nine Women, One Dress by Jane L. Rosen "Nine Women, One Dress" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2... by Jane L. Rosen (2016) and the movie "27 dresses." In both instances, I fell in love with the story.

5 reviews
October 23, 2021
I could not put this down. Best I’ve read in many years. From the very beginning you are immersed in the character’s lives. It’s got it all…an amazing romance, wonderful characters, a completely unique way of weaving past, present and future into one integrated story line. You’ll be wondering until the very end who her true love is. The illustrations of the astonishing range of wedding dresses are beyond stunning and I love how Mary weaves them so perfectly into the storyline. My dream would be to see this come to life as a Hallmark movie. It literally screams “bring this book to life”. Read it on a plane, on your lunch hour, while your taking a soak or curled up all cozy in a good storm…just READ it! You won’t be sorry, these characters stay with you well after the end. Can’t wait to read Mary’s next novel!!
Profile Image for Sharon.
Author 38 books400 followers
July 29, 2023
Leslie's engaged to the man of her dreams ... and then tragedy strikes just two weeks before the wedding. Thus, the first of many wedding dresses finds its way to the back of her closet. As her aunt tries to convince her to auction off the numerous dresses for charity, Leslie reflects on how she acquired each one, and about the men who moved through her life.

This is not your typical contemporary romance. Leslie's various fiancés run the gamut from decent to nutcase ... and each time an engagement ended, I found myself breathing a sigh of relief.

There's a happy ending that you can kind of see coming for miles ... and it's still undeniably satisfying. Leslie's growth as a person is clear, and she has to be ready. Seeing her reach that state made for an incredibly enjoyable read.

Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Vandy Dodge.
247 reviews2 followers
April 14, 2024
the end was good

This bride has rotten luck with grooms , some narrow misses. While Prince Charming was just around the corner. On her journey she’s discovering self love, realizing who her real support friends / family are. Who’s really been there along the whole time.

There’s a few of fade to black bedroom scenes.

I admit it was a bit challenging to read at times with the time line jumping back and forth. And I questioned if I was going to be able to finish this book 2/3 of the way through. I’m glad I hung in there. It was worth it

I really like how It pulled together in the end.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.3k reviews257 followers
October 5, 2021
This is Leslie’s story, and what an intriguing read this is! Two weeks before her wedding tragedy strikes, and Leslie is left single again. Leslie is so unlucky in love, and for each failed relationship there is a wedding dress. This story flits between the past and present to give a better understanding if what went wring with each relationship. This is a well written story which has palpable pain, emotions, fun, humor, twists, family, friendships, and love, which leads to an entertaining addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend.
Profile Image for Andrea Stoeckel.
3,187 reviews132 followers
May 30, 2024
...never a bride??

"...love is love, no matter what form it takes."

Leslie Westcott, always engaged but, through situations she had no control over, never married. Would she, could she, ever find Mr. Right?

Engaged to a slew of men, none of whom fit the bill, all she had to do was look within.

I don't think I've ever read a Mary Oldham before, but that's going to change. I figured out how the ending might happen about a third of the way through but it did not change how much I LOVED this book. One of my top books of the year. Highly Recommended 5/5
1 review
September 6, 2021
Mary Oldham has outdone herself this time!
The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction was tough to put down. Each time that I did, I was eager to delve back into compelling story of love, love lost, personal discovery and a surprise ending which will grab you. The story is lushly told and replete with ups, downs, twists and turns as well as accurate and beautifully described gemological sparklers! Go for it! You will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Barbara Waloven.
626 reviews45 followers
June 10, 2022
Read this book in two sittings. An excellent romance with a tinge of suspense that kept me turning pages and ignoring housework. One young lady with 6 dresses that she is considering donating to a charity wedding dress auction. We learn the stories behind each dress as she remembers and ultimately decides whether to donate or keep. I was crying, laughing, shaking my head, screaming at her to “watch out” and dropping my jaw. Very entertaining read!
1 review1 follower
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August 29, 2021
Mary Oldham's delightful novel encourages us to travel through the life, and loves, of the beautiful Leslie. Each wedding gown, captivatingly described to enchant the mind and eye, leads us into a chapter of Leslie’s life. With many a twist and turn, Leslie shares her heart's desires with us and leads us to a surprising and heart-warming ending.
15 reviews5 followers
August 29, 2021
Treat yourself to Mary Oldham’s “The Silver Linings Wedding Dress Auction”. Meet Leslie Westcott who has dresses and stories. Leslie experiences heartbreak, shock, surprise as she remembers and in the course of her remembering discovers how strong she is and who she is. This is a delightful read. An added bonus? the sketches of the dresses.
1 review1 follower
August 30, 2021
Great read! Leslie’s never made it to the altar, and you’ll be hanging on the edge of your seat to find out why she has five beautiful wedding dresses hanging out in her closet! Laughter and tears will await you. Make no mistake, you’ll be rooting for Leslie to finally find her way to the altar! Don’t miss out!
6 reviews
May 22, 2022
I see all of the highly rated reviews and think perhaps I was not the audience for this book. To me it was pretty bad. Odd writing/ editing; weird non- use of contractions. And strangest of all Leslie’s journey of inappropriate partners. For a smart businesswoman she was clueless about men. Just my opinion but very much thumbs down.👎
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews

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