Review of ‘Before You Say I Do’ by Clare Lydon

Jordan Cohen is a professional bridesmaid with vast experience in helping stressed brides through their wedding preparations. Abby Porter is weeks away from marrying her fiancé and in dire need of support. But when Jordan and Abby meet and feel an undeniable attraction for each other, they will have to decide whether following the well-ironed wedding plans is what they really want…

Clare Lydon is one of my favourite lesfic authors. I like the combination of her British sense of humour, amazing characters chemistry, and happy romances. Her books guarantee you to laugh, be entertained and feel good throughout. She is one of the most consistent lesfic authors out there and she always delivers. ‘Before You Say I Do’ is no exception as it kept me turning pages until the end and then hoping it wouldn’t finish.

The trope of a bride-to-be getting cold feet and falling for someone else isn’t exactly original but I absolutely loved Ms. Lydon’s spin into it in the form of a ‘professional bridesmaid’ character. I have to admit that I’ve never heard of them before and I would have thought that there wasn’t such a profession until I googled it. Not only they exist but there seems to be a big demand for them. I know, crazy world…

The book is written from the point of view of the main characters and both are very well-written and likable. Even though I’m not particularly interested in weddings, I have to admit that the insight into the life of a ‘professional bridesmaid’ was fascinating and how it tells a lot about human psychology. Jordan seems a mix between a life coach and a wedding planner, constant support and organiser for the bride-to-be. She’s a well-rounded character and for me, she steals the show.

As Jordan and Abby get to know each other, their sizzling chemistry jumps off the page. Ms. Lydon is really good at creating tension until it finally and inevitably snaps. And what a way to go. This build-up was my favourite part of the story and got me hooked. I admit that I wasn’t too fussed about the ending as, in my opinion, there is a bit of insta-love involved though it is a matter of personal taste. Despite this, the book is undoubtedly very well written and absolutely enjoyable.

Overall, a very entertaining lesbian romance novel with great characters. 4.5 stars.

ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.