A Scottish Highlands Slow Burn With Lots of Heart

4.5 out of 5 stars

Another story that I didn’t know I needed. I feel like I’m getting a lot of them this year, and that’s not a complaint. This time, we have a heartwarming sapphic romance wrapped up in a cozy, non-lethal mystery, complete with wedding chaos, emotional vulnerability, and one adorable dog. The Wedding That Almost Wasn’t delivered all the charm and warmth I crave in a romance, with just enough tension and antics to keep things fun and engaging.

I really loved how emotionally honest the characters were, especially Harry. Her internal awkwardness and fear of rejection were so relatable that it had me cringing and smiling in the best way. Meanwhile, Emily’s slow realization and deep-seated longing for Savannah gave the story that sweet ache of unrequited (young) love, until things took a turn I won’t spoil but absolutely adored. There’s an underlying tenderness here, especially for anyone who’s wrestled with their feelings of worthiness regarding love.

Quinn Riley’s narration was a standout. She has that rare ability to breathe unique life into each character, so much so that it sometimes felt like there were two narrators. The voices were distinct, the emotions genuine, and the comedic timing? Spot on. She’s up there on my Mount Rushmore of Sapphic Narrators.

This is a slow burn, but one that builds naturally and pays off in a way that makes my heart feel full. If you’re looking for a sweet, funny, emotionally rich listen with great narration and a lovable dog to top it all off, this wedding is one you won’t want to miss.

Book Description:

American Emily Jackson has been in love with her best friend’s oldest sister Savannah for as long as she can remember. Which is why a family wedding in far-off Scotland is a dream come true. A week trapped in the Highlands with Savannah is exactly what she needs to prove that they belong together.

Harry Lorde has a problem. Attractive women make her fall over, spill drinks, and generally make an idiot of herself. Understandably, this has made dating not just hard, but impossible. So she’s not expecting much in terms of romance when she heads to her best friend Gabe’s wedding in Scotland. But when sabotage starts to threaten not just the wedding, but also Harry’s dog Elsie, Harry and Emily find themselves on the case. The mystery might be deepening, but so are the feelings, and best of all, Harry hasn’t fallen over once.

Love has many faces, and while romance fan Emily is expecting fireworks, Harry’s just afraid all those bangs might come from her falling downstairs. But with disbelieving best friends, femme fatale sisters, a movie star handsome hotel receptionist, and a dog that can’t get enough bacon, this is going to be a wedding to remember. And two of the guests are about to lose their hearts, hopefully to the right people . . .

The Wedding That Almost Wasn't by Sienna Waters
Narrator: Quinn Riley
Length: 7 hrs and 23 mins
Published by Tantor Audio on February 24th 2025
Also by this author: The Wrong Date, The Best Time, Tea Leaves & Tourniquets
Brian
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