Every Bride Has Her Day Book Review

Brides with Style Series

Book Three

SUMMARY:  Katie's determined to make it down the aisle this time - but it may be easier said that done.

     Katie Fisher is ecstatic.  Pro basketball star Brady James has proposed, and she can't wait to start planning their life together. But it's hard to focus on her own happily ever after when her calendar is filling up with celebrations for friends and family.  Beyond that, it seems everyone around her has an opinion - and a strong one at that - on what Katie's special day should look like.  Will she ever manage to settle all of the details for her storybook wedding?  Or will she overzealous friends and relations make a mess of everything?

 REVIEW:  With the craziness of life, sometimes you just need to read a book where everything is coming up roses and in the end everyone is happy.  Every Bride Has Her Day is the book to fit that bill.  I've enjoyed this series and this book is probably my favorite.  Katie's fiancee finally proposed so now the wedding planning start.  It drove me crazy to see how everyone was giving Katie their opinions and ideas on the wedding plans without giving her time or any chance to make any decisions.  I like how she is inspired by Crystal's determination to buck tradition and have her dream wedding but also smooths ruffled feathers by offering reasonable compromises.  It was also commendable that once Katie's wishes were know and put into place, no one criticized them and she was able to make everyone happy.  Towards the end, it seemed like the author was trying to wrap up all the different relationships that were mentioned throughout the series.  And wrap up she does!!
     This is a fun and light-hearted book and series.  Every Bride Has Her Day is the last novel in this series and you have to read the others or you will be lost as a ball in high weeds. 

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Janice Thompson is an expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, especially when it come to romance.  She is the author of the hugely popular Wedding by Bella series, the Backstage Pass series, and the Weddings by Design series, as well as Every Bride Needs a Groom and Every Girl Gets Confused.  She lives in Texas. Learn more at www.janiceathomspon.com.

Every Girl Gets Confused Book Review

 Brides with Style Series

Book Two

SUMMARY:  How can she choose between the love she thought she lost and the love she stumbled upon in the aftermath?

     Katie Fisher and Brady James may be a match in heaven, but that doesn't seem to guarantee them a happily ever after accompanied by angelic choirs.  Katie's almost-finance' Casey is back in Fairfield, ready to rekindle their relationship.  And there's nothing Katie's parents want more than for their small town girl to leave Dallas and come home for good.

     But can she really leave Brady behind?  And will she ever be able to wear that gorgeous wedding dress she won?

REVIEW:  If you are looking for a book that will make you laugh out loud or chuckle softly, you need to pick this one up.  Katie's friends and family want the best for her and are determined to let her know, even if everyone speaks all at one time.  The parts about Queenie, Katie's grandmother, getting married and her bridal showers will bring a blush to your cheeks and a hardy laugh when you read about the gifts eighty-year-old women give the eighty-year-old bride and the conversations they have when they cannot hear each other.  Katie's struggle to decide between Brady and Casey seems to be more between the people in her hometown than Katie herself.  Though,she does struggle some when Casey starts calling her. 
     This is the second book in the series.  You definitely need to read the first one or you will be completely lost about what is going on and about the conflicts that occur. 
     This is a fun book that you will not want to put down.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter.  An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner.  She is the author of the hugely popular Weddings by Bella series, the Backstage Pass series, and the Weddings by Design series, as well as Every Bride Needs a Groom.  She lives in Texas.  Learn more at www.janiceathompson.com.

Every Bride Needs A Groom Book Review

Brides with Style Series

Book One

SUMMARY:  Somewhere in a sea of tulle and taffeta, satin and crepe, Katie Fisher needs to find a key ingredient of the perfect wedding - the groom.

     Small-town girl Katie Fisher is busy planning her fairy-tale wedding.  Sure, her boyfriend hasn't managed to pop the question just yet, but that doesn't mean she shouldn't enter a contest in Texas Bride magazine to win the dress of her dreams, right?  Anyway, she's sure he'll be getting down on one knee any time now.  And a one-of-a-kind designer dress doesn't just fall out of the sky right when you need it.

     But when Katie's boyfriend takes a job in another town and breaks up with her - on the very same day she wins her dream dress - her world is turned upside down.  Dare she go to Dallas to claim her prize?  And will the hunky pro basketball player who runs the beyond-swanky bridal shop - yeah, you read that right - discover her humiliating secret if she does?

REVIEW:  This is the first book in Janice Thompson's newest series, Brides with Style.  Having read all the book in her last series, Wedding by Design, and loving all of them, I was anxious to read this one.  Since Katie and Casey have been an item since they were about twelve-years-old and high school sweethearts, Katie always assumed they would be together forever.  So I understood why she signed up for the contest for the dream wedding dress. I like how Katie handled herself after the breakup and with wanting to come forth with the news of her non-engagement straight away.  Even though others made the decision for her to keep quiet for the time being, I like how she had, and kept, the desire to speak up and, when given the opportunity, she told the full truth.  Aunt Alva was a very enjoyable character, so I was glad when Katie stood up for her and with her when Alva came back to Fairfield after being gone a very long time.  Another thing I liked in the book was once Katie's dad decided to get out of his "rut" and really live life, how it affected the whole family in a positive way. 

     There were times, though, when the other characters kept talking about Katie, her engagement to Casey, and her relationship with Brady and making assumptions that were totally wrong, without letting her speak up that I just wanted to yell out for everyone to shut-up and let Katie speak.  Once the truth came out, that feeling went away and the story became more enjoyable.

     If you are looking for a book (or series) that is true-to-life and makes you laugh, chuckle or snort, this book is for you. This author's characters seem like they live next door and are so much fun.  Can't wait to read more in this series.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter.  An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner.  She is the author of the hugely popular Weddings by Bella series, the Backstage Pass series, and the Weddings by Design series.  She lives in Texas.  Learn more at www.janiceathompson.com.  

A Bouquet of Love Book Review

Weddings by Design

Volume Four

SUMMARY:  She didn't expect to fall in love - but roses aren't the only thing blooming on Galveston Island.

     Cassia Pappas has found herself in a nearly impossible situation.  She wants to spend her time immersed in her new job at a Galveston Island floral shop, arranging blooms and brightening occasions with her lovely creations.  But her boisterous Greek family - especially her father - has other ideas.  They're all relocated to Galveston to open up a new family restaurant located on the Strand - directly across the street from iconic pizza place Parma John's - and they want Cassia's full participation.

     To make matters worse, as Cassia is trying to develop a strong professional relationship with Galveston's premier wedding coordinator, Bella Neely, her own father is intent on stealing all of the Rossi family's faithful customers.  Not exactly the best way to get into this former Rossi's good graces!

     Still, at last Alex, that hot delivery guy from the nursery, is always hanging around the flower shop . . .

REVIEW:  Janice Thompson's latest novel lives up to the expectations I've come to anticipate from this fabulous author.  This story kept me in stitches as I read Cassia's story and followed along in my mind's eye.  While it can be a little over top and corny at times, these are what make everything come alive.  The characters are real and deal with some of the same family situations we do, making them easy to relate to and enjoy.  There were many times I found myself laughing out loud.
     I really enjoyed Cassia and Alex's story and getting to see other characters I've come to know and love progress in their lives.  This book is good by itself but you would really benefit from reading the other stories.  The conflict between Uncle Laz and Niko, Cassia's father is hilarious.  You get the full effect of the difficulties if you've read the other books in this series.  There is even the potential for a future series set in Splendora. 
     If you are looking for something fun and light to read, this is a book and series you need to check out.  I don't think you will be disappointed. 

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author ad screen-writer.  An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner.  She is the author of the hugely popular Weddings by Bella series and the Backstage Pass series, as well as Picture Perfect,  The Icing on the Cake, and The Dream Dress.  She lives in Texas.  Learn more at www.janiceathompson.com.

The Dream Dress Book Review

Weddings by Design

Book Three

SUMMARY:  Big dreams take big leaps of faith ... but what if you trip on the way?

     A lowly seamstress at a swanky bridal boutique, Gabi Delgado dreams of doing more than ripping out seams and fitting dresses to doe-eyed brides.  She wants to see her own original dress designs gracing the women of Texas.  But when Jordan Singer, reporter for Texas Bride magazine, visits the shop to do a feature, Gabi is humbled in his influential - and unnervingly handsome - presence.

     Convinced she'll never get her dreams off the ground now, Gabi needs lots of encouragement - especially from her friend Bella Neely - to take a chance and start her business.  And as she gets to know Jordan, she discovers that she may have to take a chance on love as well.

REVIEW:  Having read the first two books of this series, I was excited to read the last one to see how everything finished.  Now, it can stand alone to but fully understand what is going on, it helps to have read the others. 

     I enjoyed reading Gabi's story, her desire to design her own dresses and to make a name for herself, getting the recognition she deserves.  She has a strong support system of friends and family that encourage her and help her when things start looking down.  I like some of the twists and turns the author takes with the story.  A few times I found myself laughing out loud.  There were some things, though, that I would like to have been different.  The story, although very enjoyable, seemed too sweet, especially when it came to the love interests.  Don't get me wrong.  I liked how she developed the characters and their relationships but sometimes wondered if events were too perfect.

     I did like this book and recommend it, and the rest of the series, to any and everyone.  My 13-year-old daughter loves them and can't wait to get her hands on this one. 

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

 

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter.  An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into.  Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner.  She is the author of the Weddings by Bella series and the Backstage Pass series, as well as Picture Perfect and The Icing on the Cake.  She lives in Texas.  Visit www.jancieathompson.com or more.

The Icing on the Cake Book Review

Weddings by Design

Book Two

SUMMARY:  Scarlet isn't sure if she has just the right ingredients for true love - or utter disaster.

     Scarlet Lindsey is busy making her dreams come true.  She's moved her bakery to a prime spot on Galveston's most popular street, she's planning an extravagant cake for her best friend's wedding, and she has a great relationship with Bella Neeley, the island's most popular wedding coordinator.  Business is booming and Scarlet is enjoying the ride.

     But when Bella's dangerously handsome brother Armando breezes into her life, Scarlet is faces with a sticky situation.  Should she stay with the safe, sweet guy who's been a fixture in her life for years?  Or will this brash Italian hunk melt her guarded heart?

     Fan favorite Janice Thompson is back with more wit, more weddings, and more of what you love best - bridal-business laced with laughs.

REVIEW:  Scarlet is my type of girl.  She is a woman who unabashedly loves food but she excels in making cakes and other sweets.  She is a large woman who struggles with her weight and is insecure about her looks (don't we all?).  So when the brother of her friend Bella starts coming around and showing her attention, Scarlet wonders if all he sees is her size.
     This book made me laugh out loud and want to cry.  I love how Scarlet would look at things and try to solve problems like Lucille Ball in "I Love Lucy" reruns.  There were many times in this story where she had to step out of her comfort zone but Scarlet tried to do her best and make the most of things when problems arose.  Out of the two books in this series so far, this is hands-down my favorite.  Even though this is the second book in the Weddings by Design series, it does a great job of standing all on its own.  I highly recommend this book if you need some laughter and to help you realize God loves you just the way you are.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Available August 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

 Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter.  An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner.  She is the author of the Weddings by Bella series and the Backstage Pass series as well as Picture Perfect.  She lives in Texas.  Visit www.janiceathompson.com for more.

Picture Perfect Book Review

Weddings by Design

Volume One

SUMMARY:  She's trying to focus on her future.  How can one man make everything feel so . . . fuzzy?

     Hannah McDermott has a successful photography studio.  She'll soon be featured in Texas Bride magazine.  And she has a celebrity client whose Galveston ceremony will be her ticket to the top spot on wedding coordinator Bella Neeley's list of recommended photographers.  But it could all come crashing down around her because of one man: archrival and photographer extraordinaire Drew Kincaid.

     As the competition between Hannah and Drew heats up, Hannah is surprised to find that it's not the only thing getting more intense.  She can't get the handsome man out of her thoughts - or even out of her line of sight - and the job of her dreams is turning into a nightmare.  Will everything she's worked for slip out of her hands?  And can she see past her pride to find a picture-perfect love?

     With contagious humor and a cast of quirky characters, Janice Thompson gives you crazy bridal-business drama, sweet romance, and a satisfying dose of laughter.

REVIEW:   This is a cute book.  I like the storyline of competitive photographers, how they are often thrown together for photo sessions and other events and how their interest in developing a romance comes about.  I LOVE Bella's family and their zest for life.  Even though they are a minor part of the book, they bring life to Hannah and her parents and help them make some much needed changes.  I also like how the situation with the celebrity bride works out when her publicist starts making unreal demands on Hannah.   If you are looking for a fun book to read, this one is for you. 

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Available February 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

 Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter.  An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into.  Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner.  She is the author of the Weddings by Bella series and the Backstage Pass series and lives in Texas.

The Director's Cut Book Review

Backstage Pass Series #3

SUMMARY:  The one thing she can't direct is her heart.
     Tia Morales is used to calling the shots.  She's the director of the popular sitcom Starts Collide, and her life on the set is calculated and orderly.  Well, most of the time.  Life outside the studio is another matter.  If only she could get other people to behave as well as her stars do!  When she starts to have feelings for handsome cameraman Jason Harris - with whom she's been butting heads for months - it's enough to send a girl over the edge.  Will she ever learn to let go and take life - and love - as it comes?
     Full of the humor and crazy family dynamics Janice Thompson fans have come to love, this colorful story gives you an inside look at Hollywood and a healthy dose of romance.

REVIEW:  Tia is a strong independent woman that has problems with her family - her brothers are helping her renovate her house (but are doing so very slowly), her mother asks Tia to get her sister (who is a huge flirt) a job in the make-up department on her show, and her father (who has had numerous affairs) has returned home again. On top of not having any control over her personal life, she develops an allergic reaction to the dust kicked up in her house and to her mother's dog.  Though, as the walls in her house come down, the walls Tia has up in her life start coming down with the help of Jason.  She starts to see her life, family and God in a new and freeing light.  She also starts seeing changes in her family as they learn many lessons and freedom too.
     I love Tia's character.  I saw so much of myself in her and the struggles she faces - letting go of things and feelings she can't control and focusing on those things she can.  Once she lets go of trying to do everything on her own, she sees all that God can do and the changes He makes for the good of everyone around her.  This is a great book.  Even though it is the third (and last) in the series, you wouldn't know it.  It stands perfectly all on it's own.  This is a great book!!

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

 Available June 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and former screenwriter.  An expert at pulling teh humor from the situations we get ourselves into, Thompson affords an inside look at TV land, drawing on her experiences as a screenwriter.  She is the author of the Weddings by Bella series, Stars Collide and Hello Hollywood!  She lives in Texas.  Read her blog, more interesting facts about her books, and other fun trivia at www.JaniceAThompson.com.