A review by hanreads__
Bride by Ali Hazelwood

adventurous funny lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

“You’re not a problem, Misery. You’re a privilege.”

For my first Ali Hazelwood book, I am not disappointed. I can see clearly as to why so many readers love her writing, and I am going to happily join the on the Ali Hazelwood express!

This is the first time I have read a story focusing on vampires and werewolves in a novel format, before I have only ever read them on an interactive app. While a lot was confusing at first, it is something that I have turned out to really enjoy and would happily read more of in the future.

At first, I felt that the story was okay, but it was fairly slow and as though the characters lacked chemistry between them. I understood why the marriage took place, but at the same time, I felt that the marriage was going to be a track wreck. Despite the lack of chemistry, I did guess early on about why Lowe felt a certain way about Misery’s scene, but then proceeded to be confused and intrigued when it was believed he had another mate.

I think something that made the chemistry more clear between Lowe and Misery was Ana. Ana is an absolute sweetheart and I love that she played such a big part in the story, even if her scenes were somewhat limited. You got to see a vampire start to care for someone you’d never expect her to care for, and you got to see this sweet side to Lowe that personally had me slowly falling for him.

With the story progressing and my knowledge growing, I was starting to get into things. I was constantly having questions come to the forefront of my mind while coming up with silly little theories around Serena’s disappeared (yes I got them wrong like usual).

Then came the plot twist! Boy, was I angry! I feel that SOME of the plot twist could come across pointless to some readers but I think all of it was really thought out, and it became hard to know who to trust. Needless to say, the outcome of the plot twist had me 🥺🥺 and super happy. It’s a shame that it did leave a little plot hole for me though in terms of a certain someone!

The first sex scene was a little weird to me, but now I understand it, and as they began to happen more, I was down for them. They were unique to me but I do feel that the whole “knotting” thing could’ve been made a little clearer (especially to those who are new to these kind of books). Truth be told, it makes me desperate to know what’s next for Lowe and Misery as they navigate this life that isn’t known to be normal within their worlds.

Finally, the ending better mean we get another book otherwise I will steal Ali’s laptop and break it, because I need another book. Especially if we can get another werewolf like Lowe, yum!
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