A review by witcheep
Bride by Ali Hazelwood

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

If you've read fantasy romance before, you can predict how the (love) story will end just by reading the proloque: the genre conventions are used in a familiar way, even though Hazelwood brings her own twist to the different occult species in the book. There are many subplots to follow, and they offer some unexpected twists along the way. The love story in Bride is wrapped in generational hostility between different species and prejudices caused by them, political scheming, a missing friend, mystery identities, a traumatically lonely childhood with abandonement, and a lot of other problems to solve.

These all offer an excellent stage for the interpersonal relationships in the book to develop: the problems seem to dilute when main character, a Vampyre called Misery unexpectedly begins to feel at home with the Were Alpha Lowe and his pack. There are many interracial hurdles to go through to make everything work, but Misery has a very mature way to deal with it, she encourages truthful communication. The characters fit into the model from Hazelwoods' previous books: the main characters are fun, smart, and independent women, and the love interests are very supportive even when the beginning of the relationship is being enemies or rivals.

"You know what makes Alphas good leaders?" he asks without looking up.
     "No clue."
     He huffs out a laugh. "Neither do I. But at times, there are decisions that feel right, deep in the marrow of my bones." He wets his lips. "You are one of them."

The Bride is an entertaining and fun read, familiar with Hazelwoods' witty banter and humourful and hopeful take on life. I especially enjoyed Misery's way to face what the others have decided to be her fate: she'll take what little good life has to offer to her and makes the most of it. While doing so, she advocates fiercely for those few people that are important to her.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings