The lucky escape

A jilted bride goes on an unusual honeymoon after being left at the altar in this invigorating tale of love lost and found from Williams (The Love Square). Docile Annie Wiig is heartbroken and mortified about her failed wedding, but her honeymoon in Australia is already booked and she impulsively invites her childhood friend Patrick Hummingbird, with whom she's only recently reconnected, to come with her. A widower trying to let go of the past, Patrick encourages Annie to stop being scared to live life to the fullest. As they explore Australia together, Annie's drawn to Patrick's carefree and kind nature, and the mutual respect between them leads her to reassess her relationship with her ex-fiancé, who treated her like a doormat. Patrick and Annie's easy camaraderie radiates off the pages, but when love blooms, Patrick feels guilty for betraying his late wife and Annie worries she's using him as a rebound, as suggested by her critical mother. They take a step back to reevaluate their individual lives, but to get their happy ending they'll have to find their way back to each other. Williams keeps healing at the center of this heartwarming tale, balancing heavy emotions with far-flung adventures. It's a delightful armchair getaway. (Nov.)