A review by tonyaf
Bed and Breakup by Susie Dumond

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

 Bed and Breakup in a new second-chance romance about two women, who split up 7 years ago, reuniting accidentally at the B&B that they fixed up and ran while together. Neither Molly nor Robin is thrilled about temporarily living with their ex, but each has reasons that keep them in Eureka Springs and at the Hummingbird Inn. 

Molly and Robin are really enjoyable and lovable characters. Both main characters also have friends in the town, which gives us plenty of time to get to know each character outside of their tumultuous interactions with each other. Both women are kind and creative, and their friends are also all likeable and diverse. Molly's best friend, Keyana, is a true highlight of the book, and I would love to see a sequel focused on her! Robin's friend and mentee, Jesse (and his partner Caro), is another high point. 

As I've said in other reviews, I like the second-chance romance trope when it's done well. When not done well, one (or both) main characters can easily become unlikable, and the romance can leave you rooting against it. Susie Dumond does a great job here, balancing the humor of the women's pettiness towards each other with their continued attraction and lingering feelings. Add in some great character building, some descriptions of delicious-sounding food, and a small town full of delightful side-characters, and you have the recipe for a terrific addition to the genre! 

The first half is so fun that I flew through it quickly. I loved their hijinks and couldn't put the book down at times! The second half is a little more introspective as each woman starts thinking about what each wants once the renovation of the Hummingbird Inn is finished. There are some great moments in this part of the book, but it felt a little slow and even repetitive at times. That said, all that introspection brings great character development and relationship growth, and the end makes it all worthwhile. 

Bed and Breakup is funny, thoughtful, and full of great characters. The romance is fun, and I had a great time reading it. 
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