Runaway Groom (I Do, I Don't, #2)

by Lauren Layne

[Lynn]

I absolutely loved this novel because it's a one hundred percent break from reality and an appreciated breath of fresh air.

I don't watch T.V. but I'm familiar with The Bachelor concept reality programme, so a novel based around this idea felt both familiar and original.

Gage Barrett is a Hollywood alpha male actor with a less than stellar reputation with the ladies. With two brides jilted at the altar already in his past, he's a perfect contestant for a new reality television programme called Jilted. He's not keen, but after losing a bet in Las Vegas, he dutifully signs an iron-clad contract. Does he want to get marry one of the contestants? No, but the time spent filming in Hawaii will be a welcome distraction from his brother's news from home.

Unbeknown to Ellie Wright, her best friend and business partner enters her as a potential contestant on a new reality TV show. The chosen woman will marry her beau, but for the business savvy pair, it's an opportunity to showcase their t-shirts to a wide audience for a week or two if she becomes a contestant. When Ellie's selected, she's not pleased, but the filming in Hawaii turns out to be far more rewarding than she ever dreamed.

Gage is definitely a hero who is a keeper. Beyond his cocky bravado persona is a caring, compassionate and honourable man with a misinformed past; a reality he's decided to keep to himself. therefore it's a surprise to the heroine when his actions speak beyond doing her a favour.

Ellie is a woman whose ambition has led her to still be single. She's adored by her friend and mother, but they always seem to coerce her into doing what they 'think' she should do, rather than what she wants to do deep down. It's heart-warming and heartbreaking when she meets someone who is willing to go along with her wishes when deep down she's unsure it's the right decision.

The feel of this novel is so appealing simply because it's different to anything I've read in a long time. It was a surprise, not because it's fun and entertaining but because it's unexpected. I've read many of Ms Layne's novels, and always adore her protagonists along with their witty, hilarious dialogue; so this is another shining example of what I enjoy about her writing style. The joy of Runaway Groom lies in its stand out, refreshing, 'different to what I've read recently vibe'.

Overall, I loved the format and all the quirky contestants. Usually, I struggle to keep up when many new names introduced into the narrative but this worked for me; I was never left scratching my head to remember who they all are-bravo! Runway Groom is definitely a new favourite from this author and I'm looking forward to reading many more soon.

5 stars

***arc generously received courtesy of Loveswept via NetGalley***