Bride by the Book

Angie Brownwood needed to find many things - a career, a life, and possibly a man. However, she knew that if she didn't make a change none of her needs would be met. Luckily, life (or death) intervened on her behalf, sending her to recently deceased aunt's home armed with a library of books schooling her on her new career as a legal secretary. A child prodigy, she spent most of her childhood buried in a book and then behind a screen of a computer writing computer code. Angie had never really experienced what it meant to be truly alive until she landed in Smackover, Arkansas.  There she met Garner Holt, a small-town lawyer who gave her everything she needed - a future.   

The novel's unusual setting and well-crafted supporting cast of characters enhanced this cute love story. The opinionated waitress, a batch of overly-involved family members, and a couple eccentric computer geeks help to endear the characters to this reader. The story was enjoyable and entertaining; however, issues with formatting and punctuation detracted from its flow. In addition, the relationship between Garner and Angie flip between two different eras or dating styles. At times, their courting seemed antiquated and chauvinistic, then switched to a more modern and flirtatious relationship. Their traditional roles of lawyer and secretary added another layer of flirtation and excitement. Their workdays were filled with both work and pleasure…an ideal working environment for the characters; however, some of the heroine's beliefs and expectations detracted from instead of enhancing her appeal. That said, this was still a fun, light-hearted read.

Amy Willis