Review of That Wedding: A Small Town, Friends-to-Lovers Romance (That Boy Series Book 2)
I picked up That Wedding by Jillian Dodd with a mix of excitement and nostalgia. Having thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, That Boy, I was eager to return to the lives of Jadyn, Phillip, and Danny. It felt like reuniting with old friends—friends whose hilarious antics and emotional journeys I had missed dearly. This follow-up didn’t just meet my expectations; it surpassed them, serving up a delightful blend of humor, romance, and that infamous wedding chaos we all secretly love.
At its core, That Wedding tackles profound themes such as growth, love, and the complexity of relationships. Jadyn, or JJ as she affectionately calls herself, is a whirlwind of emotions as she navigates the tangled web of wedding planning. From awkward moments in the dress shop to late-night discussions with Phillip about their future, the book is punctuated with both laugh-out-loud humor and heartfelt introspection. I found myself both giggling and cheering her on, empathetically following her rollercoaster of wedding jitters. The exploration of cold feet is particularly relatable—it made me reflect on how fear often stands between us and our dreams.
Jillian Dodd’s writing style shines brightly here. Her diary-style narration allows readers to intimately connect with JJ’s thoughts and desires. The pacing felt just right; there was no rushing through the plot, allowing moments of humor to resonate and emotional reflections to settle. Each chapter left me wanting more, leading seamlessly into the next, much like the laughter and tears at a close friend’s wedding. One of my favorite moments is when JJ candidly questions, “Should best friends get married?” It encapsulates the essence of her internal struggle—one filled with doubt yet brimming with love.
The memorable quotes sprinkled throughout, particularly those showcasing Phillip’s unwavering support for JJ, tugged at my heartstrings. His character embodies what many of us yearn for in a partner: someone who not only accepts our pasts but champions our futures. As one reviewer aptly stated, “He’s the ultimate fiancé.” This sentiment resonates deeply, reminding us of the power of unconditional love and friendship.
If you loved the first book, or you’re a fan of light-hearted contemporary romances, That Wedding is a must-read. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a feel-good story filled with laughter, tears, and a hefty dose of romantic dilemmas. The book beautifully illustrates that the path to love can be as messy as it is magical.
In closing, That Wedding reinvigorated my appreciation for friendships and the humorous moments that accompany love. It’s a tale that transcends just ‘being a wedding story’—it’s about understanding oneself amidst the chaos. For those who enjoy a warm-hearted, laugh-inducing jaunt through wedding planning and self-discovery, Jillian Dodd’s book is a delightful addition to your reading list. I’m already looking forward to diving into the next installment to see where JJ, Phillip, and Danny’s escapades take us next!
You can find That Wedding: A Small Town, Friends-to-Lovers Romance (That Boy Series Book 2) here >>