A Happy Catastrophe

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A Happy CatastropheA Happy Catastrophe by Maddie Dawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am one of the unfortunate few who did not get to meet Marnie and Patrick in “Matchmaking for Beginners.” When I was asked to review a copy of “Happy Catastrophe,” I was not aware the novel was actually a sequel until I was halfway through the book. The good news is “Happy Catastrophe” works well as a stand-alone novel, and the better news is I now get to spend more time with these characters in “Matchmaking for Beginners.”

Marnie owns a florist shop but also has the ability to match people with their true loves. Taking a chance on love is what led her to Patrick who lived in the basement of a house she had inherited from matchmaker, Blix. Now living with Patrick, she is ready to get married and have babies, but Patrick, an artist, is still struggling with the ghosts of his past.

Patrick, who suffers scars both physically and mentally from a tragic fire, tells Marnie he does not want children, but a woman approaches Patrick with his daughter who was consummated from a one night stand. Patrick fears he cannot be a good enough father and those insecurities trick him into believing he is also a failure to Marnie.

As noted, readers do not need to read “Matchmaking for Beginners” to appreciate this book. Maddie Dawson is a fantastic writer and I am amazed at her ability to create lively and relatable characters who sometimes frustrate you with their inabilities to move past their flaws.

The novel alternates between the viewpoints of Patrick and Marnie so the reader is able to review each character’s struggles through the other’s perspective. While the novel deals with dark issues, it does so poignantly. Marnie and Patrick’s story has plenty of humor sparkled throughout it as well as great supporting characters. You really had to appreciate the novel’s theme of taking risks and trusting love.

I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. My thanks also to the Lake Union Publisher and the author.

View all my reviews

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