Reviewing Ann Marie Walker's Happy Singles Day
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Happy Singles Day by Ann Marie Walker and was just what I needed at the time. I was on a cozy mystery marathon in December so it was nice to read a light-hearted romcom novel as a palette cleanser.
Happy Singles Day finds successful entrepreneur and single, Paige Parker in need of a vacation. Or so her best friend/assistant Samuel says. And so, after filling out an online quiz to find out what her dream vacation was, lands her on the steps of a bed and breakfast on Aurelia Island that’s seen better days.
The owner of the B&B, Lucas wasn’t expecting to be opened for business again any time soon. His sister, however, forced his hand to accept this customer who was willing to pay double the normal rate in the off-season; basically an offer he couldn’t refuse since he’s was in desperate need of the money. Ever since his wife passed away two years ago, he hasn’t had the heart to put the B&B in proper working order while also trying to be the sole parent to his four year-old daughter, Maddie.
And so, what was initially an introduction of annoyance on both Paige’s and Lucas’ parts, the two form a deep bond over Paige’s week-long stay.
This story had humour and the adorable Maddie really elevated the story for me with her charm and wisdom that helped guide Paige and Lucas together. I especially liked when they all came together to save some puppies and named them after Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. But what started out to come across as a steamy open door novel with the build up between the protagonists, quickly became a closed door novel. This seemed a little too disjointed and was a noticeable change of tone in the story that detracted it. They were also quick to fall in love, which isn’t a favourite of mine. Overall, Happy Singles Day served me well with an entertaining, feel good romcom.
Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the advanced reader's copy. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
Book Description
As a Certified Professional Organizer, everything in Paige Parker's world is as it should be. Perfect apartment, perfect office, perfect life. And now, the perfect vacation planned to honor Singles Day. After all, what's better than celebrating her pride in being single? Because who needs a man anyway? They have zero taste in quality television, leave the toilet seat up, and sleep with your best friend. No thanks. Her life is fine just the way it is.
As the owner of a now-dormant bed & breakfast, Lucas Croft's life is simple and quiet. It's only him and his five-year-old daughter, which is just the way he likes it. Because who needs a woman anyway? They nag you to clean up your stuff, want the toilet seat put down, and expect the dishes to be done the same day the meal is cooked. No thanks. His life is fine just the way it is.
But when Paige books a room that Lucas' well-intentioned sister listed without his knowledge, their two worlds collide. If they can survive the week together, they just might discover exactly what they've both been missing.